August 5, 2009
A year has flown by… this one was more 'exciting' than the rest. As I planned for national events I was struck by cancer which brought with itself numerous surgeries. Now months later, I do not think of myself as a survivor - the term might fit some but not me. I did not yield to the scare tactics of western medicine or its inept ways of trial and error 'treatment'. Instead, dedicating much time to research, I have made every positive change in my lifestyle to contribute to future health. Meanwhile, I bought a business, began writing a book which was in the plans long ago and took up another language - this one is just for fun! Though still fit, my body might not be as strong as it once was but I believe its energy was transformed into more internal power which is the force that continues to drive me.
Not everything that happens is desirable but all that comes our way brings with itself opportunities for personal growth. Whatever the external stimulus may be, it is the internal response that shapes the life we have. Every action taken is a reflection of character within, and when the future arrives, it will be too late to change it. It is the decisions we make today that define the life we will have tomorrow.
With renewed dedication to excellence,
Juliana Jade
November 28, 2008
Another competition season down… more to come!
It was my first year defending titles… it has definitely had a different feel to it. The novelty of figure glamour has taken backstage, and in the foreground were bigger goals and more training.
Two competitions and two trophies… can't complain about that! It has been a great "staging area" for the next year's national events. I took 2nd place at both: the Northern Classic and the Northwest Championships. A year ago it would have been a thrilling outcome - now I can't help but want more :-)
Life is bigger than competition but if you have ever had a goal which went beyond the ordinary, you too know the satisfaction which comes from making sacrifices along the way in order to bring you closer to the only natural outcome: making more of yourself than you already are. And regardless of the venture, that is a cause which can empower you from within.
The quest goes on… Whether in bodybuilding, fitness in general or any aspect of life, whatever it is that inspires you - I hope you find it, hold on to it and keep on moving forward!
With unyielding dedication to excellence,
Juliana Jade
July 7, 2008
What a year! Two car accidents, a new business venture and LOTS of rain… if you are from the NW you know what I am talking about! It is July and I am 95% recovered, busy as ever and READY FOR ACTION!!!
I will be competing in Northern Classic early next month and then onto a national competition. As we know, timing is everything. I may look like a super-woman, never-the-less, I want to make the best appearance and am still deciding whether to continue onto North American Competitions at the end of August or the Nationals in November. Either way, a great show is guaranteed!
Life is up and down, but it makes little difference as long as we stay focused and continue to stimulate our bodies as well as out minds. Bodybuilding has been an amazing outlet for my energy. But it has also provided me with an opportunity to meet amazing people - strong in character, willful, those who never give up. I have been fortunate to never forget how fascinating life is: it flows outside of us, but its essence lies within. It is whatever we make of it, it is ours to take, mold and enjoy.
Keep going… it is the best way to learn.
With dedication to excellence,
Juliana Jade
October 20, 2007
I am excited to share with you the outcome of my 2007 competitive season. I have been competing for about a year and I absolutely love it!
It began with the USAs in Las Vegas late July. Though I did not receive the desired placement, I was in the best shape of my life and ended up spending an extra day filled to capacity with photo shoots. I worked with amazing photographers and you can see some of their work in my gallery.
Another outcome of the nationals was a full sponsorship to a North American Strength Show in Vancouver, B.C. Despite the fact that I was still training for a WA State Figure competition, I agreed to participate and placed 5th (!) in the event (makes me wonder what I could have done with more carbohydrates in the system.) There was also a model search event, which resulted in several photo shoots as well.
A week later I placed 1st in Northern Classic of WA State! I am proud of what I was able to accomplish this year, while not only successfully managing a business, but also in the midst of my parents immigrating from Russia. They are living with me now… and they enjoy their baked goods :-)
As for next year, I will begin with the Emerald Cup and then back to Vegas for a better placement. I have been presented with amazing opportunities in life, and intend to make the most of them all! Now that I am off season, I miss the exhilarated state of pre-competition animal-like hunger and the moment of anticipation while on stage. I look forward to next year and I am excited to see what it will bring about.
With dedication to excellence,
Juliana Jade
