I was sitting at my desk today, trying to figure out what I was going to write about when I saw that Donloree of Bikini or Bust had just published a new post. The “Be A Hero, Believe In Someone” post is one you should definitely read. Donloree (don’t you love that name???) talks about a co-worker who was her hero. This woman became Donloree’s workout partner and motivated her to start and continue on the journey to becoming a healthier woman. I loved this story! I love that women can be uplifting, motivating, and inspiring to one another. We’re not the friendliest creatures (lol!!) so I’m always moved when I read these types of stories.
Overall figure winner at the 2009 NPC Monster Mash
Donloree's post also made me think of my own hero, Genie or as I like to call her “Da Monstah!”:) I met Genie on the Oxygen forum when I stumbled upon her journal. The journal was about her journey to the stage and it was so fun to read. She was creative in the kitchen, a beast in the gym, and you could just tell that she was a good person to her core. I started to ask her questions about competing because at the time, it was just an idea that I was tossing around. She answered my questions void of bullshit and after a few exchanges, told me to email her at her personal email address. She shouldn’t have done that…lol!! I think I emailed her for every reason under the sun! But you know what, she always replied like I wasn’t being a pest (when I was!) and that my questions weren’t ridiculous (when they clearly were!)
Lookin' all sassy with her hubby
Genie has been like a mentor to me and has taken such great care of me over the past year. She has helped me with suit selection, posing, and even hooked me up with a care package of cardio panties (that is a story for another day!).
I constantly look to her for guidance and direction and she has never let me down! Donloree wrote that that by sharing your journey with others, you can give them the ability to fly. This is so true. Genie has not only given me support, but the confidence & courage to step on stage.
While we have not met face-to-face YET, I consider Genie to be one of my closest friends. Her friendship means more to me than she’ll ever know. Just as Tara was Donloree’s hero, Genie is mine.
To Da Monstah, you are one in a million. Tom, The Princess, and I love you like you're a member of our family. To say “thank you” just doesn’t seem adequate – I hope you know how grateful I am for everything you have done. This quote is for you –
“If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.”
~John Quincy Adams~
