It’s incredible to be part of a world that many don’t understand because those that do, do!

This photo captured by @abu__thabit at the @npccarolinanatural with @lauren_adams_fit is one I will always cherish

It captures the genuine and often unspoken connection that comes with friendships in this sport. When Lauren saw me crying after the show she was a bit surprised because I had just won but then she realized, it was the beginning of the end for me

She comforted me and celebrated with me as I told her these were HAPPY tears! I was so HAPPY I competed at this show, brought my best, and got to compete in the overall

I was so HAPPY that I was there and it felt bittersweet knowing I had one more week of prep, competing, and majority focus of my life being zoomed in on prep and improving for this sport

She told me about the impact I’ve made, the things I’ve done, the contribution to the industry and celebrated ME as a HUMAN as a SOUL as a CHILD OF GOD; not for a trophy, or a show, or the next show but just me

I always strive to #BuildMoreThanJustaBody and show others to do the same

In this moment I felt seen, held, & supported for who this sport helped me to be & who I get to be in this industry

To be encouraged and told wow look at how much you have done and will do and have someone cry happy tears with you is touching

And this is something @lauren_adams_fit and I are good at doing together🤣. Lauren started as an athlete I admired, came on my podcast, became a friend and close confidant, helped me out of a toxic relationship with a narcissist, and is someone I love working with when it comes to events and recently having her do my makeup and hair for this show

This is not just an appreciation post for her and this moment but for this community

To be so misunderstood as a competitor outside of the world of competing is tough but then you’re in it & there’s comfort and peace in being around your people

This is why I love live events, online events, community workshops, posing workshops, forums and more

I love contributing & attending because I LOVE the people here

Look up, look around, make friends, hug, & celebrate others while you’re here🥰🩵