StandPoint Photography

Happy Holidays this year from the Armstrong's. T.J and Jessica Armstrong I'm pretty sure I laugh more than shoot when we get together for family pictures. You guys are so much fun to work with ....and I told you as the kiddos got older they would be easier to shoot. Love your beautiful family. XOXO

Growing up with this beauty (Carrie Ennett-Leighton) I am so blessed to not only witness the growth of her family in real time but I also get to take their pictures every few years and I'm so honoured to be thought of for these special moments. Love you guys!! XOXO

This fall I got to work with the Bice family out at Zekvelds apple orchard. Courtney Bice I think the world of you and your little family, and I'm so happy I could capture a few special pictures for you guys. XOXO

I don't usually do new born photography because I felt like I didn't have the proper training (wraps and poses). This summer I got to train, shoot and edit my first round of professional new born pictures with the beautiful Gracie (Emilie Lepelaars and Mike) Thank you guys for allowing me the opportunity to have such a beautiful baby to photograph. She was too easy on me maybe....which I will thank her for when she's older. XOXO

I was so lucky to take some pictures of this little cutie after his big 1st birthday. Danielle Szaefer pretty sure he was one of the happiest 1 year olds during a photo shoot. XOXO

Over the past year I've had the opportunity to work with so many incredible clients; some new and some familiar faces. Here are some highlights from the past few months.

Standpoint Photography had the honour of shooting sweet little Maeleighs 1st birthday. Here are a few snapshots of the celebration. What I absolutely love as a photographer is that I am invited into peoples homes and lives to capture these special moments. Thank you for letting me be part of this. Happy Birthday Maeleigh!!

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease that occurs when the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the cells in the pancreas that make insulin. Unlike type 2 diabetes, T1D is not linked to being overweight, lack of exercise or other lifestyle factors. It is not preventable and its cause is unknown. Yesterday March 23rd, 2019 our amazing community in Sarnia ON got together to raise awareness and funds for the research for a cure for those living with Type 1. With an incredible turnout of people JDRF raised $3500 towards finding a cure. I was truly honoured to be part of this event. Here are some of the pictures of those lacing up their skates and getting ready to head out onto the ice.

Had the incredible privilege of photographing some amazing kiddos today and the family, friends and community that supports them. Stay tuned to the Standpoint Photography Facebook page and website for more pictures from this inspirational event.

https://www.facebook.com/events/306717646647322/?ti=icl Standpoint photography will be on location today at the Point Edward Arena taking pictures for this wonderful charity event. Come out to show your support for a great cause.

New Years Eve is always a party but even more so when you get to marry your best friend surrounded by friends and family. Trev and I got to photography the amazing Melissa and Brian Hall on their very special day. Congrats again you guys. We love you to pieces and are so happy we could be there for you. XOXO

Talk about fortunate. I was 2 weeks away from my due date but couldn't pass up the opportunity to shoot Cassie and Luke's Sarnia wedding last summer. I was only there for about an hour, as they only requested the ceremony to be captured, but still got some really great shots. Congrats again to this incredible couple. XOXO

If you aren't following this woman on social media shame on you. Kristine Andali is one of my favourite athletes to work with. Her dedication, passion and drive are mind blowing. I also enjoy reading her posts as she is honest about her training, progress and set backs. She doesn't sugar coat anything and following her gives you an insight into what professional athletes must endure to succeed. These photos were done for content on her pages. Looking forward to working with Kristine again one day. XO

If you know this beautiful couple you know that their gorgeous little baby girl Ainsley was born in October. I was so lucky to be able to get a few maternity pictures in before her safe arrival. XO

McCabe Family Fall 2018. I love working with the McCabe's. It's been a few years from our last shoot together and I always love seeing how my clients have changed and especially how kids have grown into super cool adults.

It's been a while since I've posted anything. With deciding to have our kiddo's back to back it's been busy on the home front so photography has taken a bit of a backseat. I've still been shooting here and there but I'm looking forward to getting back to my clients and my craft. Here are a few of the shoots I've done over the past year. Enjoy! Look forward to more work coming your way. XOXO

Before I went off on Maternity Leave I got the opportunity to work with an incredible company called One Spark who have launched a campaign entitled Be A Maverick. MAV- which stands for Men Against Violence is a company that stands up for and protects the women in their lives and communities. In August 2016 I gave birth to a beautiful little boy Oliver (who you see in this picture with my fiancé Trevor). Not only is it important for me to be a strong woman in his life but al...so I love that Trevor will raise him to love, honour and respect women. Check out the Maverick Campaign at www.standpointphotography.com and jump onto social media with your white hoodies in support of this incredible cause #BeAMaverick Since we all came from a women, got our name from a women, and our game from a women. I wonder why we take from women, why we rape our women, do we hate our women? I think its time we killed for our women, be real to our women, try to heal our women, cus if we dont we'll have a race of babies that will hate the ladies, who make the babies. And since a man can't make one he has no right to tell a women when and where to create one- Tupac Shakur

This weeks "Wud Up" goes out to Grind Cafe & Catering Co. Head over to www.standpointphotography.com to hear about why I love this company so much.

As one of my last photoshoots before the baby arrives I had the pleasure of shooting a fellow mother to be Jenni McCuaig. Jenni is due around the same time as I am so it was nice to be able to shoot someone who was moving about the same pace as I was for this sessionhaha It’s so crazy how much the body changes during 9 months and some of these changes are incredible and some of them are hard to deal with at times. I am so honoured to be able to show Jenni just how beautiful she looks during this last month of pregnancy because I think most days it’s hard to feel beautiful with so much going on. This is a sneak peak of the shoot but more pictures to come soon. Thanks Jenni for letting me share this picture. You look absolutely beautiful and I’m so excited for you guys.

We are SO proud and grateful to have worked with Kate Gardner at StandPoint Photography on the imagery for the #BeAMaverick campaign (www.beamaverick.org). Kate is just the best - both as an amazing artist and photographer, but also as just an incredible person! We love working with Kate and if you need ANY photography done - she will do a fantastic job. See some of her awesomeness at www.standpointphotography.ca. Thank you, Kate, for being such a huge supporter of CCI! Good Times!

I love doing genetic portraits and taking family members and mixing their faces together. I always have to laugh when people say "everyone says I look like my (insert family members name) but I don't think I do". I guess we'll see right? Thanks Nicki, Bruno, Joey and Liv for being such awesome models. XOXO

Another shoot before Christmas with my favourite JT and KG's. My little boyfriend Kingston was as sweet as ever and even wanted to cuddle after the shoot (melt my heart). Thanks for the great session guys. Love you so much!!!

Before Christmas I got to shoot the beautiful Leighton family trekking around the animal farm. Leah, Finn and Oliver are the cutest, sweetest kids and with a couple comical sneezes up my sleeve I got some smiles I was looking for. Love you guys!! XOXO

Big shout out to this sweet little family. TJ, Jess, Blair and Taylor most certainly had their game faces on for our photo shoot on November 8th. Blair, the older of the two girls, was such a great little helper for me making sure Taylor was smiling and laughing for the camera. Love this family to pieces and truly honoured they asked me to do some family pictures for them. XO

Sunday November 8th I met the Vansickle family over at Canatara and we did a short and sweet family photo session. I have the pleasure of working with John Vansickle who is one of the most genuine people you'd ever meet, and his family is a true extention of this. Great day in the park. Cheers from Standpoint!! XO

I am always extremely honoured to be invited to shoot couples special wedding day. Matt and Lisa got married the second weekend in October and the weather and the day couldn't have been more perfect. Here are just a few pictures from their BIG day but def some of my favourites. Congrats again to the beautiful couple from Standpoint Photography.

I absolutely loved shooting this blended family because it reminded me so much of my own blended family. Nicol and her two beautiful girls with Mike and his two handsome boys. Everyone coming to the table with their own individuality but complimenting one another so well. Loved so many of their pictures. Also Nicol recently opened her own Yoga Studio in Brights Grove so if you are looking for an amazing space to find some balance in your life check it out...it's called Saat Lune and you can see their full schedule at www.saatlune.ca

Such a great shoot with the Norris Family. Maddy was a little skeptical at first but after I chased her with my camera and let her direct some of the pictures she was a very happy girl. Tom also got the flying airplane nose bop to get him smiling too...haha...Sorry about that Tom. I have to say Becky and Broady were game on from the first take. Thanks Norris family. XOXOXO

Another great shoot with the Hadley Family. Weather was great...sun was shining and once I let Callen throw leaves at me (Katelyn as he calls me) we were good to go. Thanks Miranda, Bryan and Callen. XO

Standpoint photography had the esteemed honour of shooting this sweet little family and their newest little addition. Thank you Rosa, Mauro, Antonio and Dante and congrats on your beautiful little family. XOXO

Another exhibit for the books and I couldn't be more proud of the turnout and feedback from the event. Looking forward to another great year from Standpoint Photography. XOXO "If people are honest with themselves when they choose a tattoo, the art will represent them better than anything that will ever come out of their mouth. The things that are most important to me are represented in the art that covers my body. Some tattoos signify God, family, friends, social and historical beliefs or may even be a tribute to a loved one taken from us too soon. It is scary or replusive to some people? Yes. Does it change who I am? No. If anything it works as an outward conscience that will forever remind me of who I am and what is important during times of trial or long after my mind starts to fade due to old age if I'm blessed with a long life."

Standpoint Photography proudly shouts out to T&T Rustic Living. T&T specializes in designing rustic furniture for your home. If you've been to my house then you've seen numerous creations from this incredible company. Founded by Trevor Richard and T.J Armstrong T&T Rustic Living tailors custom pieces to reflect your own personal style.If you're in the market for some quality, handmade solid wood furniture from Sarnia local craftsman then give these guys a call and order your custom piece today. (519)330-6542

This is the second year that I've got to work with the Rapaich family and what a photogenic group of people. There were so many incredible pictures but here are a few of my favourite. XOXO

Another great fall family session with the Grahams. This shoot couldn't have been more fun....and thank goodness for rapid fire on the camera so we could catch their dog Magic on top of the family pyramid. XOOX

It's my favourite time of year for family photos. Comfy sweaters, boots, leaves and LOVE. I'm so happy I got to work with this beautiful family. So many great pictures but here are a few of my favourits. XOXO

Truly honoured to get to photograph such a sweet little family. First off you can't find a nicer couple than Dani and Brooklyn Maola and second their kids are not only SUPER cute but they were laughing and having fun the whole time we were shooting. Love love love this family. XO

As a photographer I have the esteemed honoured of being invited to capture the BEST moments in my clients lives. Not only did I get to take Dan and Renae's engagement pictures I got to witness the amazing fun they had celebrating their commitment to one another. Congrats Renae, Dan and Ella on your enagement and thank you for letting me share in your happiness. XOXO

In June I got to photograph Brendan and Kara Douglass' wedding day. What an amazing bridal party to work with and I couldn't be happier with the pictures. Too many to choose from but here's a glimpse into their beautiful wedding. Congrats Kara and Brendan!!

I got the opportunity to shoot this beautiful little family. Amazing morning under the bridge a few weekends ago in this wonderful city of ours. Thanks Jay, Lela, Garret and Kemslee. XOXO

"I run because I can. When I get tired, I remember those who can’t run, what they would give to have this simple gift that I take for granted. And I run harder for them. I know they would do the same for me." What an awesome day to finish out the week. My sister Sarah, Brother-in-law Bryan and myself ran the Father's Day Boys Home Run with the group Access Athletics. Our pilot for today was Hailey and we were the lucky 3 who got to be her crew members. My beautiful friend Li...nda (along with her husband P.J) introduced me to this amazing race team that we have here in our own community. "The purpose of Access Athletics Racing Team is to promote inclusion and teamwork through athletic participation. Matching disabled "Pilots" with Crew Members who assist in their racing journey allows them the thrill of full participation when they would otherwise be on the sidelines." What an awesome group of people, doing something so super cool here in Sarnia Lambton. The other amazing thing about running with Team Hailey today is that it truly does bring you back to gratitude when on a weekly basis I can take some of my running miles for granted. If anyone is interested please head over to the Access Athletics Facebook page, or check them out at www.accessathletics.ca There are so many ways you can get involved and seeing the smiles on everyones faces coming across that finish line is an experience you won't forget. Thank you again to Hailey and her parents for allowing us to be her crew members today, and Happy Fathers Day to all you Stellar dads out there. XOXO See more

On Sunday I got to capture this beautiful little family. SO many awesome pictures to choose from but here are a few of my favourites. Thanks guys for the awesome day and I hope you LOVED the animal farm afterwards. XO

Had my first family photo session of the season and couldn't have been happier. I LOVE working with these 3 beautiful ladies. Here are some pictures from our shoot. Looking forward to an awesome 2015 season.

As always I love working with local business owners to promote some of the incredible craft work we have here in our own community. For those who don't know Sticks and Strings in Sarnia has so many awesome accessories to choose from. Head over to their facebook page to check out some more items. https://www.facebook.com/sticksandstrings1?fref=ts

I know I've posted this link in the past but such a great video. It's a must see, super funny and from someone who thrives on creativity it's a GREAT message to send, not only children but, all the adults who are denying themselves from thinking outside of the box. Have a great weekend. XOXO http://www.ted.com//ken_robinson_says_schools_kill_creativ#

This week I had the honour of shooting the Headrick Family's 2nd Baby Announcement. Lisa, Ward and Ian were a blast to hang out with as always and I'm super excited to meet their newest addition coming soon. Congrats guys!! Check out standpointphotography.ca for more pictures from the shoot.

This past weekend Trevor and I got to attend the Energy Open House at The Root Natural Health Clinic in Mississauga with Dr. Lauren Wedlock Brown. Head over to the StandPoint Photography website to read more about this incredible clinic. Thanks so much Dr. Lauren!! We love you!!

"You can't control the waves but you can learn to surf." Going through some old pictures today (2010). It's crazy how times flies, and life changes. It's also crazy when you look at a picture and remember exactly what you were thinking at that time in your life. I think my past self would be pretty proud of the things I've accomplished since this day on the beach.but sometimes it takes going back to that day to remind myself what is important to me and what goals and aspirations I still have for myself. Got some work to do ..which really just means getting back into the water. LOVE LOVE!!!

Before Christmas I got to create Genetic Portraits for the McCabe Family. When people say "Hey you look a lot like your Mom/Dad" it's probably true. Thanks for being such great models. XO

Head over to the Standpoint Website to check out some of the new Wedding and Family portraits under the Portfolio section. http://standpointphotography.ca

Love it!! Way to go Ambar!! Any words of wisdom for us? Alright first challengerany one else brave enough? C'mon guys 90 days vs. 1 day. Thanks AMBAR!! LOVE LOVE LOVE!!!

CHALLENGE- Okay my little Facebook friends and family. Here comes the challenge. For the past 90 days you have been watching me kill myself with workouts as I take pictures of those workouts, edit them, find a quote and do a write up. I've gotten some sweet comments on Facebook, emails, texts and had some awesome in person conversations about the fact that people are going to MISS the daily posts/inspiration..SO.. For the REMAINDER of 2014 I would love to see what YOU are u...p to. Take a picture of yourself doing a workout, add a quote, do a write up if you like.then upload this picture to YOUR WALL AND TAG the Standpoint Photography Facebook page in the picture. If you followed the project you pretty much know that you can workout whatever your circumstance so get creative, active and be inspired. HAVE FUN!! (please tag the Standpoint Photography Facebook page in your post) See more

Day 90: I want to inspire people. I want someone to look at me and say "because of you I didn't give up." I can't even believe it's day 90. There were days when I didn't know if I could make it this far. I can't help but feel a little emotional today that it is all coming to an end. There have been so many amazing moments during the past 90 days that this project was not only physical but also spiritual and emotional as well. It's been such an awesome journey and the conversa...Continue reading

Day 89: You're not always going to win. Take the positive out of every failure as an opportunity to improve yourself the next day. Tonights Workout: A) On Oxygen Airdyne until your HR gets to 140 then hold that pace for 6min Perform the following intervals on Altitude - recovering on Oxygen 15sec on 20sec off )ride during recovery @ 30% effort 15sec on 15sec off 10sec on 15sec off 15sec on 20sec off 20sec on Finish riding at 60% effort on Oxygen until 10km is reached or 12mi...n is up Rest 7min before beginning: Row 8x 500m -rest 60sec between (60sec starts after you are finished your peri-set triplet) During each rest period perform one set of the following Rope Climb x 2 Handstand Pushup x 6 Strict Pullup x 5 (break into sets of 3/2 with 3 DBB between) Goal is to hit 2:03-2:05 for all 8 sets - make sure to record times Finish with: Hollow body + Extra Extra Crunch ISO Hold (on altitude - use your new mask and have Kate do the machine on Altitude 3 x 30sec Plate Pull see saw (same altitude) 3 x 30sec This workout was CRAZYif you do the math it's 4000m row, 16 rope climbs, 64 Handstand push ups and 40 pull ups. Besides that portion of the workout training on oxygen was supercool. The science behind it shows that if an athlete trains on a variation of oxygen and depleted oxygen then they will not only train their body to adapt to using less oxygen so it becomes more efficient with whatever it can get, but also when they are receiving more oxygen they can go faster and harder before reaching fatigue. Kristine's training program is geared towards getting her ready for next years Cross Fit Games in California. She has found that when she trains using oxygen her performance levels increase and her recovery time decreases. Kristine trains at We Are Fitness here is Sarnia and as I stated before this is a phenomenal facility to be part of. Her current program has her training in the pool 1 day a week, doing 2 to 3 workouts per day some days, training with oxygen and really keeping her ready to take on anything Cross fit can throw at her. Not only is this girl by far one of the most beautiful girls inside and out but she is super down to earth and truly modest in her accomplishments. I've heard it time and time again about people being intimidated to join this gym, and if you ask the clients here they will most likely tell you that they too felt intimidated on their first day, but that's when you ask yourself how badly you want results. All of this being said this is not a usual workout for beginners. I asked Kristine to put me through one of her workouts so I could experience the oxygen training and what an active recovery day was like for her. I would still recommend this workout if you are looking to challenge yourself as it was a rough 8 rounds. THANKS again Kristine for the awesome workout. DAY 89 done and done!!

Day 88: Until you've been broken you don't know what you're made of. It gives you the ability to build yourself all over again, but STRONGER than ever. Tonight I was invited by Ashley Faulkner to a kick boxing class and it was AWESOME!!! We got to train with Bobbi Jo Dalziel and I have to say it is up there as one of my favourite workouts of the project. I can see why boxers are so friggen fit because I feel like if I did this workout on a frequent basis I would be CUT!!... The workout was 5 rounds of: 4 mins with different combinations of hand and foot work 1 min straight up as fast as you can either throwing combinations or punches 1 minute break between rounds. Just sitting here typing I can tell that tomorrow my arms will be as strong as cooked spaghetti and oddly enough I feel like it's proof that I worked my butt off tonight. Bobbi Jo works here in town at Hare Chiropractic as a massage therapist and I'm gonna go out on a limb that with her strength she is probably great at her job. Ashley has been wanting to go do this workout for some time now so I am super pumped that she got me out there to train with her. Thanks for the invite Ash! Thanks for the workout Bobbi Jo you were totally motivating and not only did I get an unreal workout but it was pretty freakin fun as well. HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS WORKOUT!! See more

Day 87: The person who says it cannot be done should not interrupt the person who is doing it. Tonight's Workout: Curling with Courtney and Michelle Tonight I got to go the the Sarnia Golf and Curling Club and try curling for the first time. I have to say all of the sports out there it's possible that this is the one I knew the least about. Courtney did an awesome job of taking us through the basics of curling from how to hook and throw a rock (Courtney I apologize if I get a...ny of these terms wrong), the point system, getting rocks in the house, why they call it curling.haha..this one was a lightbulb for me, how to sweep, some curling terms which said off the sheet might have people thinking I've got a dirty mind, and some curling etiquette. I had a blast tonight and I would totally take on this sport again. I also love this quote because I feel like in those few seconds when you're sliding across the ice it's all on you and to listen to Courtney talk about it there is such a science to it.where you are aiming, how you are going to turn the rock, the amount of pressure you push off with, when you let the rock go, if you're trying to get a draw or take someone outand so many other things. Even though curling looks easy I've always heard how hard it actually is and so maybe that's why it's taken me this long to get out there and try it. If you've never tried it they have beginners classes at the Sarnia Club and it's actually a very social sport. Michelle and I could have even had beers while we played tonightmight have added a little something to my game. Anyway.thank you again Courtney for teaching me how to curl tonight. I can truly see why you love this sport so much. PS. It's called curling because you are trying to curl the stone into the ideal path to get you closest to the pin.

Day 86: Sometimes what you're most afraid of doing is the very thing that will set you free. Todays Workout: Ballet Class with the beautiful Eleonore Todays class was incredible. Not only did I get to learn some ballet basics I got to talk with Eleonore about so many amazing things. Her perspective on life, dance, self and expression show you that you are in the presence of a true artist. ... We got to speak of empathy and understanding, curiosity for life and compassion, it was such a pleasure being a student in her studio today. I've never got to study ballet before but I've always dreamed of being a dancer and today I was one. You can do absolutely anything if you open yourself up to the opportunity. They say life begins at the end of your comfort zone and I love this thought because it's true. When we build the strength to step away from ourselves we learn more about ourselves. The strength it takes to be a ballerina is phenomenal. There are so many things going on internally in your body when you are dancing that from the outside you see this graceful creature but on the inside I assure you she is working her butt off. Eleonore is just one of the wonderful teachers at Great Lakes Dance Studio here in Sarnia. I was fortunate enough to take an intro to ballet class with her in August and then truly grateful that she was willing to work with me today on this project. You can check out GLDS at http://www.greatlakesdanceacademy.com and send them a message to gain more information on dance classes available for all ages. I am hoping in the new year to talk them into another adult ballet class so please send me a message if you're interested so I can pass this information along. Thank you so much Eleonore and Great Lakes Dance I had the most amazon day! XOXO See more

Day 85: One day your life will flash before your eyes. Make sure it's worth watching. Today's Workout: The Holiday Hack Down Today Trev and I went with Moe, Susie, Elisha, Rodney and Ella to Sloan's Christmas Village (not sure if that's the official title). I climbed hay bails, lifted Ella up onto the hail bails, ran through dark hay bail mazes with Susie, played on the playground equipment, rode the christmas train, carried Ella when she got tired (that's a good 40lbs), and ...CUT DOWN MY FIRST CHRISTMAS TREE. (which by the way sawing through christmas trees give your back a serious workout). There are days in the workout that have been intense workouts in a gym, or field, or at my house but if I can advocate anything it would be being active with your family, your kids, nieces and nephews. I know that this experience is one I will never forget and I know we created some hilariously fun holiday memories today especially when I thought I was being attacked by a Ostrich? I think that's what that crazy looking bird was calledregardless it was Rodney attacking my feet.haha. Loved every minute of today. If you haven't been out to Sloan's I highly recommend that you get out there. You'll love it. They have so many activities for the kiddos even if you aren't in the market to get a christmas tree. You can decorate your own christmas cookies, you can make your own candles, get hot chocolate or sit by your own personal camp fire (they provide the wood) and cook hot dogs, marshmallows and the best part is they have CHRISTMAS Music playing over the whole place. AMAZING!! So much fun! One of my favourite workouts yet. XOXO

Day 84: If you run, you are a runner. It doesn't matter how fast or how far. It doesn't matter if today is your first day or if you've been running for twenty years. There is no test to pass, no license to earn, no membership card to get in. YOU JUST RUN. Tonights Workout: Running with Christina First things first I LOVE THIS QUOTE!! There are quite a few people in my life who I hope read this and a lightbulb goes off. Secondly, tonights workout was more than just a workout....Continue reading

Day 83: Success doesn't come and find you. You have to go and get it. Tonight's Workout: Volleyball Tonight I went to Gregory Hogan to play volleyball with some pretty fly girls. It was so much fun, but like my dodgeball experience I'm pretty sure I made up some of my own rules through the game.FRIG!! Haha... There are 8 teams in this league that play every Thursday night and rotate between a few different schools. I actually didn't get the info on how to sign up but I can most certainly find out if anyone is interested. I love the leagues that are set up through our city each night of the week. There really is something out there for everyone and like one of the girls said tonight it's a great way to get out, get active and have some time to yourself. Thanks so much Kara for the invite to the game tonight.and you might have picked up another team member once this project is done..Erin might have sold me when she mentioned year end wings and beershaha See more

Day 82: Losers quit when they're tired. Winners quit when they've won. Tonights Workout: Attack of the dumbbells. Bent over row Dumbbell press ... Dumbbell Push Press Bicep Curls Triceps So close to the finish line it's unbelievable. I had another workout on the chopping block for tonight but unfortunately the friend I had scheduled wasn't feeling the best so I had to come up with a replacement workout. I decided to stay in and attack the dumbbells in the basement. Almost there and it's so exciting!!

Day 81: The 2 toughest choices you will ever make. 1. Make a positive change. 2.. Do it again tomorrow. Tonights workout: Tennis with Taylor Yes that's right folks December 2nd and we were outside playing tennis. True friendship to let someone talk you into playing tennis in this weather. Taylor and I went for a light jog, did some stretching, rallied back and forth, took some pictures and froze our buns off.... You all know I'm a huge fan of outdoor workouts, and even on a day like today the air and just being outdoors gives you such a burst of energy, it's awesome. I like this quote because it truly fits the challenge. Making a positive change (and I'm not just referring to fitness and nutrition) can be so hard at times. You know the choice is good for you. You know it will make you healthier, happier, stronger, more confident and probably more successful but it takes effort. Nothing worth having comes easy and I believe it. You have to work for things not only to gain them but to gain an appreciation for them. Could you imagine if things were just handed to you.how much would you value those things, or even really deserve them. Take pride in your choices to go to the gym, to eat healthy, to treat your friends with love and respect, to show your loved ones how much they mean to you and how grateful you are every day for your incredible life. They say that things could always be worse...which is true and why we should value all of our blessings BUT.things can also always be better. Wake up everyday with the intention of being your best self. AND remember EMBRACE and LOVE your body because it is the most amazing thing you'll ever own. XO gnight! See more

Day 80: When you think about giving up remember who is watching. Tonights Workout: Pull Ups and Ring Dips What a great night!! I got to visit with my dear friend Beckie and her beautiful daughter Lexi, and got a workout in as well.... Beckie is the definition of "no excuses" and for the past few months she's been back at the gym and getting back down to business. Tonights workout was held at We Are Fitness on Mara St. in Point Edward. WAF offers training for ladies who are trying to get pregnant, training during pregnancy, and post pregnancy training. The other AMAZING thing that WAF offers ladies is specialized diets and supplement programs to follow if you're trying to get pregnant. There is strong research to support that diet plays a part when trying to get pregnant and so eating what you need to eat, staying away from certain foods, and making sure your body has what it needs will help aid in your pregnancy process. Also I LOVE LOVE LOVE this quote. "remember who is watching". Kids pay attention especially to their parents and so when you are successful you are setting your kids up to be successful. When you believe in yourself you teach them confidence and you teach them that they can achieve whatever it is they work for. One day when I have wee ones of my own I hope they look at this project and know that they can accomplish anything in life and also see how many people love and support your dreams. Amazing workout Beckie! Love your lil family so much!! XOXO See more

Day 79- Never give up on something you can't go a day without thinking about. Tonights Workout: 6 Min Sexy Butt and Legs Workout http://www.shape.com//fit-lis/6-minute-super-squat-workout... I can't believe I am getting SO CLOSE to the end of this project. I am starting to really hit a brick wall. Tonight I fell asleep around 5 until about 7:30 or so and have just been feeling all around exhausted. Tonight my hips were really tight doing these variations of squats but knowing it was only 6 minutes, and not too intense made it bearable. One thing I loved about workouts with time frames or time caps is that you could convince yourself that you can do anything for 6 mins, or 12 mins or T25 mins. That's what makes our excuses laughable. There is a quote that says a 1 hour workout is 4% of your day. There are theories that say you don't even need that full hour all you need is 30mins. There are cross fit and other styles of workouts that are less than 10 mins and provide a killer workout..so the excuse can never be time. SO what's left? Motivation? What gets you and your butt in gear? What is gonna make you want it for even 6 mins a day? I'd say until you figure that part out your workouts are always going to be a challenge mentally because we both know you are physically capable or WAY MORE than you give yourself credit for or even own up to. Think about it!! Much Love!! XOXO

Day 77: Nobody cares about your excuses. Nobody pities your for procrastinating. Nobody is going to cuddle you because you are lazy. It's your ass. You MOVE it!! Tonight: Planks- straight arm, bent arms and sides. Tonight was probably the most tired I've been through this project.which is hard to believe because I was pretty tired the few weeks we were dealing with everything that was going on with my Grandma.... I fell asleep straight after work, didn't end up doing these planks until quite late and even adding text to this picture my eyes were heavy. I am so excited that I have less than 2 weeks to go now but also my body is ready for a break..it might have been ready a few weeks ago.haha. Anyway, today should bring some more exciting things. LOVE LOVE!!

Day 76: Let me tell you something you already know. The world ain't all sunshine and rainbows. It's a very mean and nasty place and I don't care how tough you are it will beat you to your knees and keep you there permanently if you let it. You, me, or nobody is gonna hit as hard as life. But it ain't about how hard ya hit. It's about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward. How much you can take and keep moving forward. That's how winning is done! Now if you want wha...Continue reading

Day 75: Work until your idols become your rivals. -Drake Tonights Workout: DRUMS... I played the drums tonight for close to 2 hours. I've been neglecting them for a while with work, renovations, this fitness project and of course various other things getting in the way.but not tonight. I've wanted to play them for awhile so I decided to dedicate a few hours and it was awesome. I even tried to play some new riffs which are a little beyond my level. I was on the fence about using this for a workout or not but the point of this project is to be active and playing music most certainly keeps you active. Also with the drums you are constantly going against most of your natural instincts because all of a sudden your legs and arms have to move on different beats and in different rhythm than one another. When I first moved the kit into our house Trev was a little hesitant about having them here. I assured him that I keep a dish towel on the snare when I practise to alleviate the noise the snare can cause. One day I came home early and I could hear someone really having a good time on the drums, I instantly knew that the dish towel had been taken off and so I went downstairs to investigate. Well look at what we have here Trevor Richard killing a drum solo, dish towel on the floor with his tshirt and sweat running down his forehead. Was that one of the proudest moments in our relationship or what. LOVE IT!!! Anyway.great night on the drums.

Day 74: I'd rather look back at my life and say "I can't believe I did that!" Instead of "I wish I did that" Tonights Workout: T-25 Michelle what did you get me into?... So tonight my original workout fell through and it was too late to head towards my back up plan so I decided to try one of the T25 workouts that Michelle burned for me. She gave me rave reviews and if you know her you know how awesome she looks. This workout was so tough. My legs were dying and there are these exercises in it called Shuffle Burpees.at first I thought the shuffle part was helping with the burpees until I got to 3 and then realized my calf muscles were not longer my friends. I've always had a hard time working out in front of a T.V (unless it was Jennie Garths workout when I was 10 and she was on 90210) but considering this workout is ONLY 25 mins ..well let's be honest you CAN TOTALLY DO ANYTHING FOR 25 mins.and really you can work as hard or as easy as you like all the while keeping in mind that the harder you work the better your results will be. Anyway..I chose this quote tonight because many people have told me how crazy I am for doing this projectand getting into the mid 70's I would have to say I 100% agree with them.BUT..looking back on this project I am super pumped to say that I DID IT! It was hard, it was painful, there were days when I was pissed I had to workout, there were days when it wasn't convenient at all to throw a workout into my day, and there were days when I was so mentally drained my body just wanted to give in to my grieving and let me get away scott free of a workout. All of that being said "I can't believe I did it!" I know I still have 2 weeks to go but I think I've made it clear that I'm taking this all the way. Thank you again everyone who's helped in this project in so many ways.I know I say thank you A LOT but you can never be too grateful for the blessings that you have. Much LOVE!!!

Day 73: You never know how strong you areuntil being strong is your only choice. Tonights Workout: Circuit Training (50 Seconds On, 30 Second break) involving: (my apologies Colon I might make up some exercise names) Ab Twist Leg Raises... Jack Knife Situps Shoulder Press Bicep Curl Front/Side Lateral Raises Push Ups Boxing Sled Push Windmill Stretch Harness Run Ball Slams Lateral Ball Toss KettleBell Swings KettleBell Wide Squat KettleBell Narrow Squat Flutter Squats Squat to Calf Raises TRX Row with partner in squat (then switch) Trampoline Butt Kicks High Knees Side Planks with free arm doing battle ropes Pull Ups UHmmmmmI know there were a few I forgot.yup that's right people we did all of these.HOW STRONG ARE WE?? I love this quote for tonights workout because this was a Ladies Night Workout. You never know how strong you are UNTIL You fill in the blanks. This program is run out of the Strangway centre by Collin Morton. When we left my friend and I couldn't get over the fact that EVERYONE was so super nice, welcoming and encouraging to us new comers. Also we could tell that these strong women loved working with Collin because he has this great energy to him, and he is so motivating during your workout. We were blown away by this phenomenal group of ladies. We felt very lucky to take part in this training tonight and it def kicked our butt. Check out Benefitness website at http://www.benefitnessstudio.com If you want to try out this program, which I highly recommend, ladies night is a ten week transformation program. It is Mondays at 7pm, Tuesday nights start at 5pm because it includes nutrition counselling, and Thursdays at 6:45. Drop in's are always welcome. Also if you're looking for a 1 on 1 transformation program please contact Collin directly. I really can't highlight how awesome tonight was. I was saying on the way home that I believe some people don't go to the gym because they are intimidated by the equipment, or the amount of people there, or they fear that everyone is looking at them like they don't belong. This centre is not like that at all. This environment is a place for WOMEN of all ages and fitness levels. Every woman is very supportive of one another and you won't find a more encouraging group. Thank you Collin for tonight. I felt truly grateful to attend this workout.another INCREDIBLE place that without this project I might have never heard of. SO RAD!!!!