After Stage One

Of course, you all know why it has been so long since I have written; I didn't feel much up to writing about what's happened.

But as this blog was started for one reason, to follow my steps to the stage, it seems like a part of my accomplishment is unaccomplished. And I know she would not want that. So...

I did it! I got up on stage in front of hundreds (almost a thousand) in a bikini and didn't falter. Was I scared? Terrified! I was actually shaking.

The morning was probably the most nerve-racking. When I arrived at the theatre I had to go backstage alone. I didn't know anyone though I was supposed to meet a friend of my sister's there. Walking into the dressing room was like being that outsider accidentally strolling into a neighbourhood pub where the music suddenly stops and everyone turns to look at him, except the locals were catty women whose once-over look of me made me shrink. I did that slow walk backwards in to the hallway. And there I stood by myself until Dawn and her friends showed up. They were really nice and put me at ease, encouraging me and such. And since it was a long wait, sitting backstage alone would have made me even more nervous.

We were told that we couldn't go up front into the audience, but many of us stole away before we went on. It was great to see my cousin, Mel and Jean who came from so far just to watch me. And, of course, Ryan, my sister and her beau Charles: they had bee my cheering section for the weeks leading up to November 13.

I knew I hadn't won once I stood up there with the other girls in my class that morning. Most of them looked absolutely phenomenal with their tight little tushies; and they seriously knew how to work it. I, on the other hand, did not. But I didn't mind too much. It was just about being up there for me.

And so, the evening show was a breeze. Yes, I had to wait nearly 4 hours before actually getting back out there. There were nearly 160 competitors, and with routines and awards, the night seemed like it would never end. Poor Dawn had to go on very last; it was after midnight when she got home. The good thing for me was that I knew judging had been done in the morning and that I had already done what I set out to do, so now I could just enjoy it all. So when I walked out at 9:30 I felt confident. I think I may have even had a little more strut to my strut. I had fun!

And then I went home with Ryan, showered off the first layer of tan, changed into something more comfortable and indulged in pizza, beer and a nice bottle of Stella. Oh, and had some ice cream too! ;)

So then what? Well, the week following was odd. I didn't have to pack my gear to work out after work. I could eat anything I wanted. I had free time to spend with my friends. I have to say, I didn't really like it.

I am back on track now. Well, I've had two solid workouts this week. And I have eaten relatively clean this week. The last thing I want to do is rebound back to where I was 14 months ago.

And the goal now is to get bigger and stronger...