Tell us a little bit about yourself (family, job, interests/hobbies, etc).
I’m 35 years old, originally from Clarksdale, MS. I’ve been in the Houston area over 12 years, the majority spent in League City. I have all the jobs, haha. I work full-time at CenterPoint Energy in Digital Marketing, as a digital marketing specialist. I also work at my brother’s funeral home in Texas City. I am in charge of dressing and casketing decedents for their services while also maintaining our death certificate system. Last, but not least, I am a Precision Nutrition certified nutrition coach for the best nutrition company ever, Falcon Nutrition. I really love helping clients achieve goals that they never thought were possible with sustainable nutrition.
In between all my jobs, I really love to read when I get the chance (memoirs are my favorite), and I’m also addicted to the Investigation Discovery Channel. My television is almost always on that channel with The First 48 sprinkled in there sometimes too. I LOVE watching anything about murder mysteries and serial killer documentaries (Hello, Dahmer). I LOVE fashion, specifically, shoes, all kinds of shoes. My closet is ridiculous, but it makes me happy. I am a true foodie. I structure travel around food. I love trying new restaurants and taking pictures of the goods (yep, I’m one of those). I am also ADDICTED to coffee and desserts. Trying new coffee shops around the Heights and Houston has been my favorite since moving up this way. Red Dessert Dive being directly across the street from District H has been heaven-sent 🙂 Music is a very important part of my life as well. It was my minor in college (piano) and it truly helps me daily to stay calm, cool and collected.
When did you start working out District H?
I started working out at District H in June of this year. I FINALLY made the decision to move into Houston, specifically the Heights, to be closer to my full-time job after 9 years of being so far away.
What made you decide to start working out in general?
I’ve been active all my life. In high school, I played basketball, softball, and participated in the field activities for track. I was also part of the marching band, lugging around a Tuba during field shows. I made that thing sing though! I was able to earn a basketball scholarship to pay for college so the better part of my life was spent in organized sports. After college, the weight piled on. I realized that I didn’t have the structure, schedule, and competitiveness that I was used to and I was seriously in a rut. I tried all the things that most people try, globo gyms, yoga, running, but nothing ‘stuck’ like crossfit.
What is your favorite & least favorite workout or movement?
Favorite workout: Grace (30 clean and jerks for time); least favorite movement: wall walks, cause why? Why do I need to climb a wall backwards? ugh….
What is your favorite & least favorite lift?
Favorite lift: POWER (emphasis on power) clean and jerks; Least favorite lift: front squats (blaaahhh)
What are your fitness goals?
I honestly just want to look strong and fit. I love fashion and clothing, so I love looking nice in my clothes and feeling confident. CrossFit has helped my confidence tremendously. I used to have lofty goals of competition while in the gym, but I just want to come each day to get a good workout in, sweat a lot, and hang with the crew for the hour that we are there each day. Carrying groceries in only one trip is a plus too.
What is your proudest gym moment/achievement?
At one point I could deadlift 410 pounds easily, as well as throw 225# over my head in a split jerk (not anymore, lol, but I was pretty proud of those moments). Winning or being able to podium in several local CrossFit competitions has been pretty cool too.
What is your favorite quote or words to live by?
“Attitude is a choice. Happiness is a choice. Optimism is a choice. Kindness is a choice. Giving is a choice. Respect is a choice. Whatever choice you make makes you. Choose wisely.” -Roy Bennett
Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you.
I am totally obsessed with commercial airplanes. I can name any model airplane, along with the series of the model just by looking at them. About 7 years ago, Jet Blue Airlines had an accelerated pilot program that would fast track participants to their cockpits. I applied, I tested, passed and I got in! I did not, however, go through with it, because I would have had to move, not have a job for a few years, and probably be totally dependent on the parentals again. Wasn’t a great fit then. I do regret not pursuing a pilot career earlier on during college though.
What advice would you give to newbies?
Motivation doesn’t last. Discipline does. You won’t always feel like getting to the gym, or going for a walk to get your steps in, or hydrating properly, or eating foods that support your goals, so, that’s when discipline takes over and you just do it. Those positive, disciplined choices make you feel much better after you make them anyway, so just do it!