The Owners' Manual | Issue 24 | Spring 2022

Michele Smith Construction Coordinator

During the pandemic, BL gifted us appreciation bonuses and it was the perfect time to not spend money on anyone but myself. No Pokémon cards, no house projects – nothing. So, with it, I bought myself a membership with a personal trainer. Since December of 2020, I’ve gone once a week to meet one on one with someone to reach goals and to clear my mind. 3 other times a week I do this with a group of other people to burn through stress and to focus on my mind and wellbeing. By investing in myself, I’ve grown as a person and my muscles have grown too! Yes! Girls can do some seriously weightlifting and it’s so much fun! Every time I walk in, I become driven, excited and fierce. I get to train along some awesome folks that are also pushing to be better versions of their self. As a woman, there is something very powerful about outlifting a dude…or watching the faces of the people around me as I deadlift 165 pounds. It’s amazing!! In addition to the personal training, I’ve also invested in seeing a dietician once a month to make sure that I have the right nutritional needs in order to perform my best. She’s helped me fix my tummy and eat foods that will drive my energy during those sled pushes or backloaded squats. Nothing feels better than loving yourself and loving the things that you do. My splurge has put me in the position to love my whole self and feel like the inner tough chick that I am.