May 13, 2012

Elka is a Boot Camp Babe

Kamila let me know that Elka was "Babe of the Month" in January at the Boot Camp Babes website. You can read a little interview with her here. :)



How has Boot Camp impacted your life?Boot camp has impacted my life in so many ways. It made me realized how far off from health I really was, for starters. I have watched my body morph and change in so many ways that have nothing to do with a scale.  I have met so many amazing woman that still, to this day, quietly challenge me to grow. Mentally and emotionally.  I am also now testing the pavement in running. I have self esteem. I have woman to go to with questions on any subject from female stuff to food. It's awesome. I feel that the friendships I have now are gonna be life long! It's a great feeling. Brings security!!
What changes have you seen in yourself, physically and/or emotionally?The change I have seen in myself emotionally is I am willing to trust now... It's like a family. You can call any of them and you have someone to talk with or laugh with. I never trusted that, because females are tricky. Ha ha. Physically, I have lost 24 pounds and feel wonderful. My goal this year is to tone up. I remember, when I couldn't run at all. Someone always circled back for me. Which encouraged me to return and try again. I  have never felt stupid! It isn't a contest, Its more like a sister thing.
How did you find out about Boot Camp Babes?I found Boot camp babes through my Best Friend Talinda Bennington. Another amazing woman in my life. Who believed and encouraged me when I felt there wasn't any hope. It only takes one person to love hard and help someone along. Man, I am grateful God assigned her to me. :) Thanks T!
Outside of Camp, what do you do? Do you work, are you a mom, volunteer, hobbies etc.Outside of Boot Camp I am a stay home mom! Since, I have that privilege I go above and beyond for those that can't be home for their kids. I figure more kids the merrier. I blend in more with the junior/High schoolers. I LOVE kids. I feel a lot of kids just don't feel heard. I remember being a teen and not having someone to go to about boys, dating, love, friends, ect. I am here for who ever walks in my door. As for physically, I love to hike, camp, fish, ski, football 500 in the street, whatever works and I am learning to run. I also run my mouth. I love you Apryl!!
Let us know a little bit about your family.Oh gosh, my family! Biologically I have 3. Jaime 15, Isaiah 14 and Abbigail 6. I am recently divorced (1 year and a half). I have 2 step children I raised for 11 years, that I refuse to let go of. Devynn 18 and Valerie 13. I love them all. I basically live for all of my kids. This is another place that Boot Camp has taught and helped me, these ladies never gave up on me and constantly invited me out. Loved on me and taught me balance. Now, I can take a night off and not feel guilty. Because it is okay!!!
Where did you grow up?I was born and raised in Glendale, AZ. Due to an Meth addiction I decided to relocate. Sober today by the Grace of God, 8 years in March. So happy to live in Gilbert, AZ.
What is your favorite exercise at camp? ;-)My favorite exercise at Boot Camp,  IS NOT Burpies! Dear God! Wanna taste breakfast again? Do Burpies! I like frog jumps and love anything core.
Do you have a motto that you live by?My Motto that I live by "Love hard and forgive always! Life is too short!" I feel that if you hang on to resentment you are only holding yourself back from freedom. Besides, it confuses people when you forgive them. Fun to watch. God is good! Without God things seem impossible and people hard to tolerate. With him you can have peace, have a new understanding and find compassion for those around you. If you cross my path, it happened for a reason. Lets embrace it!
Tell us something fun and/or insightful about you that others wouldn't already know.Something fun and insightful about me? I was recently told I was "Endearingly honest. Yet, brutally fun, what you see is what you get". I don't have a filter when asked a question. God's not finished with me yet :) I have high hopes! Those close to me say I am a giver, unselfish, passionate, good listener and can be my self around anyone from Billionaires to Bikers. Look out world here I come. Hopefully a few sizes smaller with in the year.
Anything else you would like to add?Special thanks to Jaime, Apryl and Teddy... I love you guys and wouldn't be me with out your love and support!!!! MUAH!!

 
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