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Get Fit With Me!

Get Fit With Me!

Hello everyone!

It’s Easter and April Fool’s Day! Holiday’s aren’t the same for me over here, it’s just another day when you aren’t around your loved ones. Any who, today I wanted to talk about something that we can all relate to and affects us all, our health. Health and wellness has been important to for a while now. Growing up I watched my mother become sick and I just knew that if she had taken better care of herself, she might be here with us today. That motivated me to make sure that I made better decisions when it came to my health. I also like to look good, and there was a time when I wasn’t comfortable with my body. Social media can definitely make us feel less confident about ourselves. I have spent hours looking at others girls on Instagram with the banging  bodies and figures and wanted to emulate that look. Now I just try to be the best version of myself. So for the month of April, I challenge you! If you haven’t already, you can start of the second quarter of 2018 on the right foot with your fitness goals. I’ll be doing this challenge as well. I’ll be posting tips and meals on my fitness page on Instagram. You can follow me here Julie Fitness. We all want to look and feel our best, but sometimes we need that extra push when the self motivation is lacking. I already have about five people that are joining me on this challenge, and I actually saw it from another one of my friends, and it inspired me.

I recently purchased a Vitamix Blender, so I’ll be sharing recipes for that also, and maybe I’ll make some videos. There’s more to come on that. Other than that, I hope that you join me on this challenge. Hopefully it starts off as a challenge and turns into a lifestyle, because at the end of the day that’s what it has to be. Start off by cutting the things out of your diet that aren’t good for you, and it will be easier to make healthier options everyday. That’s what I did and for the most part, I am pretty healthy. Thanks for stopping by, and if you’re with me on this challenge leave a comment. Have a be-YOU-tiful day!

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Accomplishments & Cocktails!

Accomplishments & Cocktails!

I found my new favorite spot in South Korea! Okay so I know I haven’t been giving you guys that many updates about my time in Korea, but it’s coming, I promise. I finally finished studying for my CompTIA Security + Certification, which I passed! I am now CompTIA Security + certified, and the feeling that I had when I passed that exam was pure joy. I was so excited that I did the Lebron once I walked out of the testing room. I had focused and studied for that test shortly after arriving to Osan, so for about two months. This was my third time testing and I was the only person in my work center that was not certified and that is a certification that is needed for my job, so the pressure was definitely there. Any who, I don’t want to get too deep into that. If you want to learn more about the certification just follow the hyperlink…

Today I also took my E-6 promotion test. I have been in the Air Force for eight years now, and I feel like it is time for me to step into that next level of leadership. E-6 is the rank of Technical Sergeant in the Air Force, and in my opinion, it’s when people really start to take you seriously. This was my fourth time testing for promotion, and I’ve watched some of my peers pass me by in rank. Some people would look at that as a failure on my part, but I don’t. I am proud of all of my peers who joined the Air Force the same time or shortly after me that have already made E-6. I know what type of work has to go into achieving that rank. I was focused on other things these last couple of years, and financially I still made the same amount as them, because I wasn’t solely focused on the Air Force being my only source of income. With that being said, I am happy that I tested for this promotion cycle and I don’t have to worry about it again until the results come out in the summer.

The past weekend I explored Suwon with some of my friends, and enjoyed a nice cocktail in the Songtan Entertainment District (SED) after our fun day. The SED is literally about a five minute walk from my home and it has many different restaurants, cafes, bars, and clubs. It is what makes Osan so much fun. The one really cute cafe called Cafe CF had the nicest atmosphere and the prettiest drinks and decor. I fell in love with it and I am happy that I get to enjoy it for the next 21 months! After we left Cafe CF we went to one of our regular spots and I ordered my favorite blue drink there. I think it is definitely important for you to get out of the house and destress. I felt like I’ve been cooped up for the past two months, but this weekend was really fun and I enjoyed myself getting away from the base. Trust me, there is more to come!

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Here’s a photo of my “Blue Think” from the Think Lounge in the SED. (Photo taken by iPhone 7 Plus)

Small Circle. 

Small Circle. 

Remember back in high school when the number of people that knew you and called you friend was a popular thing? Back then the more friends we had the merrier, because it showed that we were more accepted by our peers. Fast forward to almost nine years later for me, my views on that have changed. Even when I was in high school, I knew a lot of people and hang out with different groups, but I didn’t consider everyone my friend. These days the amount of people that I consider friend is even smaller. Just because you know someone, doesn’t make them your friend.

You really have to evaluate the people around you and take inventory. Are the people you call friend supportive of your goals and aspirations? Do they just hang out/talk to you when it’s convenient for them? Do they take an active role in your interests, or do they just cheer from the sidelines? Much like bad relationships, bad friendships can hold you back too.

It is awesome when you find people in your life that you can truly trust and confide in. A friendship is something that we as humans need, sometimes that type of relationship is more important than an intimate relationship. I am thankful for the true friends that I have in my life. We may not talk everyday, but the love is always there. Whenever we do speak it’s like we never missed a beat. That’s what friendship is all about.

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It’s 2018!!!

It’s 2018!!!

Happy New Year!!!

I am so excited for 2018!! I just think that so many great things are going to happen this year, and I am ready for it. I started writing down my goals for this year weeks ago. I usually like to start my New Year’s Resolution on my birthday. My birthday is so close to New Year’s Day anyway that I can get away with it, and technically that’s really when the new year starts for me. For this new year, I brought it in alone in my apartment. I usually am out partying with friends, but this year I decided to do things differently. The offer was there, but I wasn’t in the mood for partying. I wanted to have an even better head start on my goals for the New Year.

This year I wrote down my goals and split them up into three categories: work goals, professional goals, and personal goals. One may say that work goals and professional goals are the same thing, but for me they’re not. My job has nothing to do with what I want to do for the rest of my life. However, it does allow me to keep my bills paid, and it is paying for me to go to college, so I want to make sure that I excel there too. My professional life is me building my brand. Inspiring people through the “Queen Juliette” lifestyle and continuing to put out great content that not only helps other, but helps me as well. My personal goals are different from both because that’s more of my health and wellness goals.

What are your goals for this year? If you haven’t done it already, write them down. Tell someone else about them so that they will keep you accountable too. We all have the same 24 hours in a day to make our lives whatever we want it to be. We just have to use our time wisely. I am one that struggles with time management, but this year I vow to do better.

Also, make sure that you are setting SMART goals for yourself so you won’t be disappointed. SMART goals are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound. This should be self explanatory, but what it means is to be deliberate about your goals and have a plan. Your goals should be based on your wants and desires, and not what other people want for you. This will stop you from having a lot of heartache. It’s way more easier to focus on something that you’re actually passionate about.

I don’t want to be too long winded, but I hope your 2018 is everything that you imagine and more! I hope that you achieve all of the SMART goals you set for yourself and that you have a prosperous year! Always remember that you’re Be-YOU-tiful and life is meant to be lived abundantly!

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Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas Everyone!

So far I have been having a BLAST in South Korea. I am surprised that I actually like this place a lot. I arrived in country on December 8, and it feels like I’ve been here longer than that already. I am meeting a lot of great people and my co-workers seem really cool (for the most part).

Today is Christmas here, and it does not seem like it at all. This isn’t the first Christmas I’ve spent away from my family per se, but it is the first Christmas that I have been alone in another country not around any loved ones. It’s kind of weird. I try to act really tough, but it does suck seeing pictures of people with their families at this time of year. I absolutley adore my family and their craziness, and holidays are extra fun with them.

I will say that I have been taking advantage of this area so far. I have done some short trips to Seoul, South Korea. It’s a huge city, similar to NYC, and it is the capital of South Korea. Yesterday I went to the Trick Eye Museum and the Gyeongbokgung Palace. One thing I will say, is that South Koreans love to enjoy themselves. They definitely know how to have a good time. I attached some pics and videos from the Trick Eye Museum. The Love museum was also attached too, but I didn’t get to check that out that much. Enjoy!

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New Chapter.

New Chapter.

Sooooo, I have been preparing for a big change in my life these past few months. One of my favorite parts of being in the military is being able to live in other countries. The Air Force spoiled me by giving me Ramstein, Germany as my first duty station, and I have been trying to get back overseas ever since.  I got notified in February that I would PCS (Permanent Change of Station) from Hurlburt Field AFB, FL to Osan AFB, South Korea, and I was ecstatic!

I have heard stories and rumors about South Korea since I joined the Air Force in 2010. However, it wasn’t my initial choice for my next duty station. I left Germay in 2013 & I have always wanted to go back, that was my first choice. Luckily for me, Osan is only a year long tour and it is one of those bases that you can choose the base that you would like to go to next. I lucked up and got Ramstein, Germany as my follow on. Both of these tours are unaccompanied, since I have no spouse nor dependents. This will be my first time traveling and living overseas alone, and I’m stoked!

While preparing for this move, I reminisced on all of the things I accomplished while at Hurlburt. I bought my first home there, became a business owner, took many vacations, got divorced, became a landlord… Personally, I did alot and learned alot. I grew up so much in the past four years, and I am ready for the next chapter in my life.

So many people have asked me why I decided to leave for three years, why I decided to go back to Germany, and my question to them is why not? Why wouldn’t I want to take this chance to explore the world, live in Asia and Europe on the military’s dime, and get more stamps in my passport? This is one of the main reasons why I joined the military; to travel and go to school, and that’s exactly what I’m doing.

I’m excited for this next chapter in my life and thrilled to take you on this journey with me! Stay tuned!!

Living.

Living.

Last month my 93 year old great uncle passed away. He was my grandmother’s big brother whom she loved dearly. His funeral service was awesome. There were many people there to celebrate his life. I have a habit of thinking of my mother’s funeral, and wondering how mine will be every time I attend a funeral. I know that is kind of a dark thought, but some day it’s going to happen. (Hopefully, I’m 93 when it does.) I wonder who will show up, what people will say about me, but I mostly think about what my legacy will be. What will I be remembered for?

We all know of someone that passed away who was not that great of a person when they were alive, and everyone acts like they like them once they’re dead. Let’s be real people, everyone doesn’t go to “heaven”, not everyone is resting in peace either, just to let you know. There is much debate on whether there is a heaven or a hell, and I won’t get into that. I just want to start the thought process of creating your legacy, and not letting life pass you by.

One reason why I live my life to the fullest is because my mother wasn’t able to do so. She died way too early, and before that her life drastically changed and she wasn’t able to take care of herself by the age of 43, if I remember correctly. I was in 10th grade when she first got sick, and I got to see everything first hand that she was going through. It’s tough to see your mother in such a vulnerable situation. At one point it’s like she became my child because I had to take care of her. I know there was so much that she still wanted to see and do in her life, and that was cut short.

The truth is, none of us know the day nor the hour. You only live once, so you might as well enjoy the hell out of it. Love often, laugh much, and go see different places! Go after whatever goal you have been scared to go after. Talk to that guy or girl that you think is out of your league. Buy that pair of shoes that you’ve been eyeing. Just live! I think there definitely has to be a balance between living life, and being responsible. Yes, you should save money, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun while you’re saving. I bet there is a cheaper way to do whatever you want to do anyway, you just haven’t figured it out yet. Long story short, go live your best life! My daily goal is to live my best life, and that is different for everyone. Figure out what that is for you, and go do it. If you are already doing that, then good on you.

Distractions.

Distractions.

It is so easy to get distracted from your goals these days, it’s not even funny. I honestly believe that distractions are from the devil. Staying focused and consistent are two very important elements when it comes to being successful. I am still learning how to stay focused and consistent on my goals without being distracted. Oddly enough, relationships for me are very distracting. I tend to focus on the person that I’m with more than my goal by trying to make them happy. Word of advice, don’t do that. If you’re in a relationship with someone a) you should know each other’s goals, and b) you should be encouraging each other to reach those goals. If you’re with a person that doesn’t respect your goals and dreams, then they probably aren’t the one for you anyway. You have to set boundaries within your relationship, so that you can still be the best person that you can be.

Achieving your goals is a very full filling feeling. The main reason why we set goals is to feel accomplished. As I reflect on this past year, I realize that I was distracted alot and did not complete some goals that I set for myself. Ultimately, that’s my own fault. It would be really selfish to blame my shortcomings on someone else. Now that I know what things throw me off my path, I can make a conscious effort to avoid those distractions.

It’s all a learning process. I’m not the same person that I was a year ago, or even the beginning of this year. I have been growing daily, and learning more about myself. I have already started planning my goals for next year. I want to get a head start on the things that I want to accomplish. Preparation is key. We can have anything we want in life. We just have to do what’s necessary to get it, and that ultimately means no excuses, and no distractions.

What are your goals? Has something, or someone been distracting you from achieving those goals? Are you aware of your distractions, or are you getting in your own way? Now is the time to plan that beYOUtiful life that you see for yourself. Make the necessary preparations now, and the future will be even better.

Distractions.

Distractions.

It is so easy to get distracted from your goals these days, it’s not even funny. I honestly believe that distractions are from the devil. Staying focused and consistent are two very important elements when it comes to being successful. I am still learning how to stay focused and consistent on my goals without being distracted. Oddly enough, relationships for me are very distracting. I tend to focus on the person that I’m with more than my goal by trying to make them happy. Word of advice, don’t do that. If you’re in a relationship with someone a) you should know each other’s goals, and b) you should be encouraging each other to reach those goals. If you’re with a person that doesn’t respect your goals and dreams, then they probably aren’t the one for you anyway. You have to set boundaries within your relationship, so that you can still be the best person that you can be.

Achieving your goals is a very full filling feeling. The main reason why we set goals is to feel accomplished. As I reflect on this past year, I realize that I was distracted alot and did not complete some goals that I set for myself. Ultimately, that’s my own fault. It would be really selfish to blame my shortcomings on someone else. Now that I know what things throw me off my path, I can make a conscious effort to avoid those distractions.

It’s all a learning process. I’m not the same person that I was a year ago, or even the beginning of this year. I have been growing daily, and learning more about myself. I have already started planning my goals for next year. I want to get a head start on the things that I want to accomplish. Preparation is key. We can have anything we want in life. We just have to do what’s necessary to get it, and that ultimately means no excuses, and no distractions.

What are your goals? Has something, or someone been distracting you from achieving those goals? Are you aware of your distractions, or are you getting in your own way? Now is the time to plan that beYOUtiful life that you see for yourself. Make the necessary preparations now, and the future will be even better.

Inner Peace.

Inner Peace.

So, for the first time in years I am living by myself (no roommate), and I am single. This has been going on for the past few weeks, and it is something that I have wanted for myself since I decided that I wanted to get a divorce years ago. If you didn’t know, I was married for five years, and obviously it did not work out. My ex husband is a good man, but he just wasn’t the right man for me, and I was not ready to be a wife at the time. I just kept telling myself and him that I just wanted to be alone. I just wanted time to myself to figure out who Juliette is with no one else’s influence or judgment. I feel like when you are actually out on your own, and handling business by yourself & for yourself, you get to know yourself even more. 

Since I have lived by myself, I find that there are good days and bad days. Some days I am so happy that it is just me, and that I can just fully enjoy my own company. Other days I feel lonely, and like I need someone there. I go on social media and see happy couples and wonder why I don’t have that yet. Then I quickly remind myself that this is what I wanted, and when the right person comes along I will know. 

Throughout this whole process, I am getting to know myself better. I do love who I am, and the woman I am becoming. I am at peace knowing my strengths and my weaknesses. I know I have flaws, and I don’t try to hide them. At this point in my life, it’s either you love me how I am, or having nothing at all. I don’t feel the need to conform to anyone’s beliefs. I walk to the beat of my drum set. 

This feeling is a very liberating feeling, especially as a woman. Women are taught from a young age that they must be wifely, or motherly. I am not either at the moment, and I am find with that. I see so many women rushing to be a wife or a mom, and they haven’t enjoyed their own life yet. Once you become a wife and a mother the focus is not on you anymore. I believe that you need that time to just figure out who you really are, so that you may know what you really want. During my first marriage, I was just learning who I was. I was only 19 when I got married, so that was super young to be making that type of commitment in the first place. I was smart enough not to bring a child into that situation. 

I said all of that to say this, I am finding inner peace within myself. I enjoy my own company. I love being the master of my life. I want to be a complete person before I decide to fully commit to someone else, and I hope that he would have the same mindset too. I urge all of you to get to know yourself more. It is a beYOUtiful feeling.