How did you get interested in bodybuilding/working out?

I've trained them hard over not the last 2 years so Im most proud of them! Mentally: Heart; I have a big heart! At 16, I hated my short, stocky body and joined a gym. Years later, I met someone who figured how to rebuild my body and convinced me to compete. (I think I was his first experiment!) He was my first California friend, and Eddie still can tell whether Im on or off with my training today.

How was your first show like, any interesting experiences?

My first show was the 2000 NPC Los Angeles Fitness. I dieted for 6 months and won at a weight 104lbs. Petrified, I had begged Eddie (who drove me) to take me home, seeing 6 other intimidating competitors. He kept telling me, Youre Ready and I guess I was.

What do you like and dislike about competing?

I hate poor losers and ungracious winners and haters. There will always be haters in your life and as you improve, these people eventually show true. If you always step forward and focus on improving yourself, they eventually show true, But the BEST thing about competing is that feeling of stepping on stage, knowing you are at the top of your game. When you know you have done everything possible in your contest preparation, youve already won.

What are your future goals in this industry?

As far as competition, until my back pain overpowers my drive, and Im a competitive element on stage, Ill keep coming back. My future goals are simple; to continue to call my passion a job and to motivate others, that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible.

What do you see yourself doing in 10 years?

In ten years, I hope that my husband and I can afford to slow down, travel with our boxers and enjoy the fruits of all our hard working years.

Please tell us something special about you that most people wouldn't know?

I have degenerative discs in my back and scoliosis. AND I was in a head on collision just 2 weeks out from 05 Nationals. 'We'll see if I can do it!!'

Any additional notes? People you would like to thank?

Thanks to Angel and my family for their support. My best friend Heidi needs more than a thank you. She is my sponsor, costume designer, coach, conscious, travel partner and my biggest cheerleader. The other huge thank you goes to someone who told me from the beginning to think 'BIG'. Eddie comes through at crunch time and always believed I could do it.

Competition History:
-NPC Los Angeles Fitness 2000 1st
-NPC Tournament of Champions; 2002 1st fitness overall and 2nd figure short
-NPC Ironman Fitness 2002; 1st Fitness overall
-NPC Orange County Muscle Classic; 2003; 1st Fitness
-NPC California State Championships; 2003, 1st Fitness
-NPC Ironman Pro Figure Championships 2004, Figure Short; 2nd
-NSABB Fitness, 1st
-CBBF National Fitness Championships; 2nd pl short class