Jennifer's Journals

2011-12-23T16:14:00.003-06:00

Our Christmas Gift From God...

1 week and 1 day old

2011-12-17T20:31:00.008-06:00

Our Christmas Blessing...

The newest addition to our family arrived Thursday night, December 15th at 6:22pm. weighing 9 lbs. 1 oz. 21 inches long and perfect in every way! I was hoping from the beginning that he would make his appearence early and that he did..10 days early my water broke in the middle of the night! RJ picked his own bday:) Unfortunately I did end up having a c-section but we are both doing well and that is most important! Maybe I was just ment to have 2 natural deliveries and 2 c-sections. I feel blessed beyond words and ohhh soo soo in love with our new baby and with my beautiful family! Thank you God for the gifts in my life!

Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!!:))

2011-12-11T22:33:00.004-06:00

38 Weeks Pregnant...our baby is due Christmas Day!!

Can't wait to meet our new addition!!

2011-12-11T22:22:00.004-06:00

November 12, 2011-

The NPC Mid-States Muscle Classic where my client Jenny Harris competed in the figure D class and looked incredible!! Take a look at her "new look" from last year!

2011-11-01T13:39:00.014-05:00

Fall 2011;

WOW...it's been a busy fall once again for our family!! With soccer and football season for our daughter and older son our weekends have been BUSY!! My husband also coached our son's football team once again for the 3rd year so he was very busy as the defensive coach of Wade's team!

Alyssa's soccer team was undefeated during the season, awesome job ladies and especially to Coach Mark!

We had a great trip to an apple orchard to pick some yummy apples, a hiking day in the woods and a fun trip to the train museum this fall! Had a great time at my friend's surprise bday party/ halloween party and we had a perfect day for our family's annual trip to the pumpkin patch! Halloween was vey fun as well:)) Our daughter was dressed as Tinkerbell, our older son was Captain America and our youngest was a dragon:) Then I couldn't let our baby #4 in the belly be left out so I painted the belly as a pumpkin/jack-o-lantern:)) My mom (grandma) was dessed up as Ms. Hannigen from the play "Annie"! Daddy was football coach as he brought the football with trick-or-treating and had Wade going out for passes between houses:)) Good Times!

2011-11-01T12:56:00.007-05:00

September 24th-25th 2011;

My client Diane competed at the ABA/NPBA Natural Team USA in Las Vegas! After winning her class at the ABA Natural in Bolingbrook last she she was pro-qualified and qualified to compete at this competition in Vegas! Here are a few pics of her incredible conditioning as a top 5 finisher in her class! May I also mention she was recovering from a hip fracture in Sept. of last year and 1 year later stood on stage looking like this. The will to never give up...that's how!!

Awesome Diane!

2011-09-22T13:10:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday Alyssa and Wade!!!

We love you both sooo much! We are so thrilled you were both sooo excited about your surprise gifts from us!:))) It was so fun to watch your faces as you opened your presents:))) It was a fun party once again with friends and family!!

2011-08-15T12:46:00.000-05:00

August 2011:

My client Cortney places 1st at the ABA Natural women's novice class!

Well done Cortney!!

2011-07-25T13:19:00.000-05:00

18 weeks pregnant with our 4th child!

2011-07-10T07:52:00.008-05:00

2011-07-09T13:15:00.003-05:00

NPC Team Universe- Teaneck, NJ July 9-10th

I'm here at the Mariott in New Jersey for the Team U assisting my client Kara for the weekend as she competes in the women's light weight bodybuilding class! Last night was prejudging for all the bodybuilders and Kara achieved, without question, the best conditioning of the light weight class...quite possibly the best conditioning of all the female bbing classes! WELL DONE KARA!! We did it...you brought YOUR BEST!!! Finals are this evening so we do photos today and lay low until it's time to get her ready to rock tonight! Here are a few back stage shots from the pump up room before prejudging! More to come...

2011-07-04T21:38:00.003-05:00

Fabulous 4th of July Weekend!!

What a fun weekend we had! Fireworks, going to see Transformers, a day spent at the beach and then a bbq at home and a fire to roast marshmellows. Then a bbq with my brother and his girlfriend. Then to celebrate today we went to the parade and a pool party at one of my friends place...We played, played all weekend...and it was Good, good, good:)))

Hope you all had a blast too!

Jen:)

2011-06-28T17:56:00.000-05:00

May/ June 2011...

Since my last post here we have had so many wonderful adventures in our family! As the school year came to an end our daughter qualified for state in the track and field events of the 100m. dash and the 4x100 relay with her team. Well it gets even better...in the pouring rain at the state championships in Peoria, IL Alyssa and her relay team took 1st place and became state champions in the 4x100 relay!! Very exciting indeed!! (photos below)

Next our son Wade earned his purple belt in martial arts with under the direction of his sensei Master Sensei Christian Jensen who Wade has been working with since he was 3 1/2. Wade will also be starting tackle football this year after playing flag the past 2 years! (photo below)

Our Logie-bear finished his 1st year of preschool and has now started at his new preschool!! Last week he took the school bus for the very 1st time as he is taking part in a 4 week summer school program before he starts next year! He loves school and is soo excited to be going to "bubby's" school (his brother's school:)! (photo below)

DATONA BEACH and DISNEY? UNIVERSAL STUDIOS/ ISLAND OF ADVENTURE and more!!!! We took the kids on their big vacation to Datona Beach and Disney! We put on over 2,900 miles driving there and back:) It was the 1st time the kids had ever seen the ocean...it was VERY special! The view from our room was incredible...open the curtains and there was our pool and the ocean...a breath of fresh air!! The entire trip was just stectacular and unforgettable!! (pictures below!)

And just this past Sunday our Logan turned 4 years old!!! He is such a big boy!!!

I am now 14 weeks pregnant and feeling fantastic! I leave in a little over a week for the Team Universe in New Jersey where my client Kara will be competing in the womsn's bbing class.

Life is good!!!:))

2011-06-27T22:16:00.000-05:00

Logan getting on the school bus for the very 1st time!!

On his way to his new school for summer school:)

2011-05-18T22:39:00.010-05:00

NPC Grand Prix Natural- May 7th, 2011 -

"BELIEVE"

Another proud day for me to witness such an incredible group of athletes finish what they set out to do! Each of these individuals has big plans ahead...you'll be seeing more of them! For Adam (left) a 3rd place finish in men's novice middle wt. and a 4th place finish in men's open middle wt. For Phil (rt.) a 3rd place finish in men's masters 40-49..yes phil is 46! Meaghan placed 8th in the figure A class and Jean placed 9th in that same class. I look forwad to what is next fo all of you!!!

2011-04-27T09:57:00.010-05:00

Easter Sunday 2011! So Blessed, So Grateful!!

2011-04-27T09:29:00.011-05:00

NPC Big Bea Event- Saturday, Apil 16th- Davenport, Iowa
An INCREDIBLE night for Phil, Meaghan and Cristy! They all felt so proud of their achomplishments! Phil took 2nd in a very competitive masters 45-49 class (Yes, Phil really is 45 years young in that condition!)Then Meaghan placed 4th in her very first figure competition after competing in bodybuilding the past few years. Those of you who know figure competition know what a huge achomplishment it is to place top 5 at your first show! Then Cristy took the middle weight title as there were no other competitors in her class but she was still thrilled as this was her first bodybuilding competition after competing in figure the past few years. She had fun durin g the pose down also...I have a feeling bodybuilding is a much better fit for her and she will be back on a miossion next year!
I am so proud of each of you and look forward to another outstanding performance by Phil and Meaghan May 7th in Rockford! Thank you once again to Team Abrams photographer and friend Terry!! We couldn't capture all this hard work without you!!

2011-04-14T10:11:00.011-05:00

ABA Natural Illinois- Sat. April 9th 2011 Adam and Wendy Hutton were SPECTACULAR!

Adam's 2nd show and he placed 3rd in the men's novice class and 4th in the men's open. The novice class had 12 competitors and the judging was so close they had to be up there for at least 20 minutes...it was crazy! The top placings were extreemly close! Incredible job Adam!

This was Wendy's very 1st show and she placed 2nd in the Figure A class! Again, her physique and posing were dynamite and it could have gone the other way at a different show. Amazing job Wendy! A huge thank you goes out to fellow Team Abrams competitors Phil Puzzo, Jean Andrews, Diane Mueller and Jenny Harris for coming to cheer your fellow teammates on, especially with it being such a late event!! They were so appreciative to have a cheering section on friends, family and fellow competitors!

The next stop for Adam and Wendy is the Rockford Grand Prix Natural promoted by the one and only Kevin Noble!! http://www.kevinnoble.com

2011-04-06T23:32:00.000-05:00

Beautiful...

2011-04-04T22:20:00.012-05:00

April 2, 2011...NPC Mid-Illinois Classic! The start of the spring competition season!! My two beautiful clients Jennifer Harris and Jean Harrity did an outstanding job! Jenny placed 4th in the figure D class and Jean placed 3rd in the figure A class as well as 4th in the Masters 40+ class! This was also a "warm up" show for both of them as they will also be competing with Team Abrams in a few weeks! Here are a few pics from the event...there are many more posted to my facebook page as well.

2011-02-25T23:36:00.002-06:00

Alyssa as "Abu" in the school play "Aladdin"...

Fantastic job sweetie!! You were so much fun to watch! Hats off to the entire cast,

all your hard work paid off!!

2011-02-23T23:15:00.004-06:00

New Possible Women's Physique Division Added To NPC/IFBB...
There should be an official announcement coming soon...looks like another division may be coming to the NPC and IFBB as soon as this summer. A place between women's bodybuilding and figure but nothing official has been announced as of yet.

2011-02-16T09:17:00.007-06:00

Upcoming Shows for
"Team Abrams"... and 10 days until my birthday:))
I have clients preparing for several shows this coming spring season as well as several clients competing this summer. Below you will find a list of spring events;
April 2nd- Ottawa, IL
http://www.flexgymonline.com/

April 16th- Davenport, Iowa
http://www.iowamuscle.com/

May 7th- Rockford, IL
http://www.kevinnoble.com/

As for me, I have been busy preparing my clients as well as working with my clients who do not compete, reach their goals. Our kids are busy, busy with school, activities and sports...we have a very lively, active home for sure:) Valentine's Day parties for the boys went great:) I also volunteer at their schools as a room mom so I help with all the planning and get to enjoy the fun on the days of the parties with the kids. This is something I have done with all of our children every year and it is one of those wonderful advantages to working part time to be more involved with your children's lives:) Beautiful roses and chocolate covered strawberries from my husband were a special treat for me on Valentine's Day also:)
As many of you have noticed I stopped updating my members area where I sill have over 15,000 photos from my bodybuilding career as well as hundreds of photos from my clients' events. I would like to transition my site a bit to focus more on my training and coaching business, Steps To Success, while focusing less on myself.
I made the decision in May to retire from bodybuilding to focus my energy on my family and my business. My focus now is passing on the opportunities I have been given to those I work with to watch their success unfold. I think it is important to know when your best has been reached and to move onto other things with your name and accomplishments in tact. I feel I reached my best and would not like to continue on unless I could be better than I have been. I am satisfied with what I brought to the sport of bodybuilding and I am extremely proud that I did so with my morals and values of remaining 100% natural throughout my lifetime! That will remain the aspect of my career I am most proud of! There are also other priorities I have in my life that I would like to focus my energy on.
I have been very fortunate to have family and friends to support my career! When my children were younger it was easier to full fill all their needs along with the great demands of competing. Since my children are getting older, 12, 7 and 3 1/2, their needs have become greater and my role as their mother has become a greater task. They are involved in more activities, they need more assistance and support with a vast array of things. Life is about continually re-evaluating your life to make sure you are placing your efforts where your priorities are...it was time to make the shift and I can honestly say I am content with my decision.
The last time I guest posed was in the small town of Debuque, Iowa just 1 week after my brother's horrific accident. Although my brother is now doing extremely well and is back to work at his previous employer I have been changed by what my family went through...
With that said I will now put the passion I put into my bodybuilding career into the goals and dreams of my family and my clients.
I THANK each of you for supporting my career in this sport and I hope you will all continue to follow the future of my training and coaching business! I have one client who will be competing at the NPC Team Universe this July for the first time. In addition I have a client who earned her pro card at the ABA Natural last August who will compete in her first pro event in September!
In 10 days I will celebrate another birthday:) with those I love and cherish! There is a lot to come in this next year...
With pride and passion,
Coach Jen:)

2010-12-19T23:05:00.002-06:00

December 2010-

Our Beautiful children in front of our very special Christmas tree:)

2010-12-04T15:20:00.009-06:00

Jack's 5K Race!!!!
What an INCREDIBLE morning!!! A day blessed by God and the angels of heaven...Thank you Paula and Gary for the snow today:) just incase you both had a hand in that...it was soooo beautiful:)

2010-12-01T23:27:00.007-06:00

A VERY SPECIAL EVENT!!

Saturday, December 4th from 10am-12 noon...

"The Chilly Chili 5K Run" in Schaumburg, IL

Why is this event so special you ask...well those of you who have shared in the events of the past 6 months with my family and I will be filled with joy to hear that my brother Jack will be jogging the full 5K this Saturday!!! Yes, he will:) along with his entire recovery team and my entire family!

This photo of my brother and I was taken in September, just 4 months after his accident.

For those of you who don't know...on May 22nd ( the morning of the Rockford show where I had 7 clients competing that day) I received a call from my mom that my younger brother, Jack ( 29 years old) had been in a serious car accident and had a endured a very serious brain injury. That morning I had to literally pull myself up from the floor and pull myself together to be "Coach Jen" for the 7 incredible athletes I had preparred for that day's competition for the past 6 months. I fullfilled that day and then made the announcemnet to my team after the finals that I needed to go to the I.C.U. I then proceeded to the hospital at 1am. and stayed with my mom for several hours.

My brother's prognoses from doctors was uncertain and extreemly frightning. We were told that he could remain unresponsive indefinitely and have a long list of lifetime dissabilities due to the brain injury he had sustained.

After over 4 weeks in an unresponsive state my brother was transferred to the amazing Rehab Institute of Chicago and spent the next 2 months relearning how to follow a command, sit up, use his hands, walk, talk, swallow, eat, smile, throw a football again and many MANY more things! Then he came home:) to my parents home where he has attended therapy at Marianne Joy where he has regained his speach, processing speed, his personality, his sence of humor, his strength, his ability to jog and do sooo many other things.

Well I am so extreemly proud to share that Tuesday, November 30th was Jack's final day at Marianne Joy and last Friday was his first day back to the gym to train as he used to. My brother has been a lifetime athlete playing football from age 7 through high school and then on a semi pro team The Chicago Thunder!

My family and I have God and the angel's above to thank for the gift of Jack's recovery! All the pieces were in place...he had the best care available, he had the support and care 24/7 from my mother, and our entire family to ensure he could go the distance. He had the will and determination and FIGHT like no other and prayers from everyone around him.

So, Saturday morning as the snowflakes fall from the sky and I am jogging beside my brother, his best friend Kelly, my mom, my dad and my sister and all of his support team at Marianne Joy....I will be smiling and thanking GOD for the gift of a second chance for Jack!! The race will be covered by 104.3 FM "Jack" radio....how about THAT as a personal message from above:)

This holiday season I am reminded and inspired by my brother, my friend how fortunate I am and how easily we forget what a gift each day is that we take for granted as we wake up and do all the things we do without a second thought. Imagine starting everything you know over...relearning it ALL....

Now the next time someone tells me they "Can't"...guess what....

I have one word for them JACK!!!!

I Believe in Jack and i hope you all cherish the gifts in your life this holiday season!

With love and passion,

Jennifer Abrams

This photo was taken last weekend on our annual tree cutting adventure! The annual "Flip Sid" tradition was alive once again as my brother flip my mom upside down in the middle of all those Christmas trees...life is sooo good!

2010-11-28T22:50:00.008-06:00

Our annual "Tree Cutting Adventure"!
Our 1st 12 foot Christmas tree!!! LOVE IT!!!

2010-11-25T22:47:00.000-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving From The Abrams Family!

2010-11-16T15:05:00.006-06:00

"Outstanding Job" to my client Marci!

Marci placed 3rd in the figure A class at the Mid-States Muscle Classic XXIII promoted by Kevin Noble in Rockford, IL. this past Saturday, November 13th.

2010-11-08T22:19:00.002-06:00

Quote for today...
"The race goes not always to the swift but to those who keep running. You have powers you never dreamed of. You are capable of doing things you never thought possible. There are no limits on what you can do".
- author unknown

2010-10-31T22:05:00.002-05:00

Happy Halloween!!

2010-10-30T15:05:00.001-05:00

Pumpkin Carving Night!

2010-10-12T15:41:00.009-05:00

"Team Abrams" members/competitors Kara, Cortney and Rebin outstanding job on Saturday!
They competed at the NPC Continental in Ottawa, IL. www.flexgymonline.com
Kara placed 1st in women's lt. wt., Cortney placed 3rd in lt. wt. and rebin placed 3rd in figure class B.

2010-09-26T17:23:00.002-05:00

My brother and I watching the kids break open the pinata's at their birthday party!
I love you little brother!!:)

2010-09-23T23:06:00.002-05:00

Happy Birthday to our daughter Alyssa and our son Wade!!!

Our two September birthday kids:)

2010-08-10T17:41:00.009-05:00

"Team Abrams"- August 2010

2010-08-08T19:38:00.003-05:00

Results From The ABA Natural...www.naturalolympia.com
The BIG news of the night is my client Diane...winning the women's bodybuilding overall title Saturday earned her status and the ability to compete as an ABA Natural Pro bodybuilder!!! She plans to take a long off season and set her sights on her first pro show next summer!! CONGRATS DIANE!!! Saturday was your absolute best conditioning and package brought to the stage to date...
WAY TO GET IT DONE!!!

The next BIG news of the night are how incredible my other two clients did. Melissa and Aimee both competed for the first time in figure on Saturday and did an incredible job!! They were both stunning, and also might I add, both mothers of young children! Aimee has 9 year old triplets and Melissa has 9 and 11 year old daughters! Aimee placed 2nd in the masters figure class and 3rd in the open tall class! Melissa placed 3rd in the masters figure class and 3rd in the open medium class!

TEAM ABRAMS I AM SOOOO PROUD OF YOU!!!
Photos coming soon!!! Thank you to my friend and Team Abrams' "official photographer", Terry, for capturing everyone's hard work!!
Jen:)

2010-07-24T23:00:00.002-05:00

My Family-BBQ on the deck!

2010-07-20T07:51:00.003-05:00

My niece Olivia on her baptism day!

My parents:)

2010-07-19T13:20:00.001-05:00

BIG Support for my brother Jack!!

2010-07-11T00:06:00.001-05:00

Fireworks July 10, 2010!

2010-07-06T21:09:00.002-05:00

"Life isn't about how to survive the storm,
But...
How to dance in the rain"

2010-07-04T23:11:00.002-05:00

HAPPY 4th OF JULY!

2010-07-02T09:42:00.004-05:00

A Day At Brookfield Zoo!

Our Logie-bear:) The kid that goes and goes until he litterally falls down...He walked the entire zoo all day! No stroller and no pull ups either...dry all day. What a big boy he is now!!

Big sissy Alyssa...such a nurturing young lady:) She's always taking care of and playing with the little ones! Such a wonderful helper she is!

2010-06-29T00:34:00.005-05:00

Alyssa's 1st Concert!!!

I took my daughter to her very 1st concert on Sunday to see Justin Bieber at Summerfest in Milwaukee, WI! A very, very special memory that she will never, ever forget! Alyssa we are so proud of you for your straight A's!!

2010-06-26T17:42:00.003-05:00

Happy 3rd Birthday Logie-Bear!!!

2010-06-24T20:12:00.003-05:00

"Team Abrams" Schedule of Events- Fall 2010
Here are the events I am currently preparing clients for;

August 7th- ABA Natural North America Bodybuilding Championships- Bolingbrook, IL

October 9th- NPC Continental USA Bodybuilding & Figure Championships- Ottawa, IL

November (date T.B.A.)- NPC Natural Mid-States Muscle Classic- Rockford, IL

** Another NPC Guest Posing Appearence for me- April 9th, 2011- Davenport, Iowa!

Things to check out:
#1- The new "Karate Kid" with Jaden Smith- Will Smith's son...fantastic movie! Jackie Chan is outstanding!!
#2- The song "Awake and Alive" By: Skillet
#3- The song "Free" By: Zac Brown Band

2010-06-20T10:31:00.003-05:00

The Most Important Woman In My Life...My Mother...
at the beach with all her grandchildren yesturday:)

2010-06-16T20:20:00.002-05:00

Our Camping Trip To Starved Rock

2010-06-10T23:50:00.001-05:00

Our Son Wade...

Graduates Kindergarten!!

2010-05-31T16:00:00.001-05:00

Need a reminder about NEVER GIVING UP?...
look up Motivational Speaker Nick Vujicic...and keep pressing on!!!

2010-05-31T14:49:00.012-05:00

NPC Tri-State NATURAL Muscle Classic
May 29th, 2010 - http://www.iowamuscle.com/
Guest Posing as "Catwoman"

-Thank you to promotor Keith Watts for the opportunity to guest pose and for the Amazing theater to perform on!

-Thank you to my Beautiful daughter/ assistant for the show Alyssa, for the wonderful time spent together and for trophy presenting during the show-I LOVE YOU!

-Thank you to my husband, Michael for staying up 'till 2am. to help me finish my costume last week! I love you! Noone knows just how much you have helped me put together my guest posing appearences:)

-Thank you to my client Amanda for getting my music cut so quickly for me!

-Thank you to my clients Rebin and Wyatt for watching our boys so I could be at this event!

- Thank you to my client Diane, for video taping my performance and taking photos for me. Thank you for driving so far to help/ support me!

(My Daughter and "Assistant" for the day

Alyssa...I love u sweetie, I had such a nice time away with u!)

2010-05-25T22:43:00.003-05:00

Outstanding Job Team Abrams!

May 22, 2010

Many more photos to come in my members area.

2010-05-20T22:50:00.004-05:00

Motivational Guest Speaking- June 3rd 2010
-For more information abut this event I will be speaking at check the flyer on my "home page" list of spring/summer events!

2010-05-17T10:06:00.001-05:00

"Team Abrams"competes Saturday, May 22nd in Rockford, IL!
For information and tickets visit; www.kevinnoble.com

Left to right; Wyatt, Jenny, Jean, Rebin, Cortney, Amanda, Phil

2010-05-16T13:15:00.004-05:00

Alyssa's performance in the school play,
"Charlotte's Web" over the weekend!!

Alyssa with her brothers after her performance on Friday!

My brother and I with Alyssa after her performance on Saturday!

2010-05-09T16:24:00.004-05:00

Mother's Day !

Rollarblading on Mother's Day with my 3 children and my mom, my most favorite woman in the world! I love you!

2010-05-08T23:49:00.003-05:00

Happy Mother's Day!

(Logan running through the water:) Ohhh how I Love this photograph!-
Everyone who knows Logan understands why:)!)

2010-05-01T17:58:00.001-05:00

Alyssa's dance recital - "Fame" was the number she performed:)

Testimonial from Diane Mueller…

2010-04-28T21:45:00.001-05:00

Training with Jennifer Abrams has made me a better athlete, a better competitor, and most importantly, a better person. I came to Jen, as a person with some experience with competing in bodybuilding, simply looking for help with my posing and routine. What I found was a highly intelligent, exceptionally motivating, and deeply caring individual who turns her client's goals into her own personal goals. I had no idea what to expect working with someone who is as accomplished in and who has achieved the high level of success in bodybuilding that Jen has. I was pleasantly surprised by the gracious, fun loving, compassionate individual who immediately set me at ease. I came to Jennifer with a fair amount of drive to improve myself. Jennifer took that drive and turned it into a burning hot passion to become the best competitor I can possibly become.

I admire Jennifer Abrams for her passion for the sport, for her ability to find the hidden potential within a person and bringing it to light, and for being self-confident enough to unselfishly share her knowledge and experience to turn each client into the best person possible. I am constantly impressed with her high level of intelligence. She never dodges a question. She answers every question quickly, efficiently and correctly. She has turned my entire weight training and dieting program around; and also took the lead in my competition preparations this season to ensure that I achieve the results I desire. Rather than focusing on the genetic defects of my physique, she taught me how to accentuate the strong points to my physique to make me look my absolute best on stage. Jen had me so well coached and so well prepared that by the time my competitions finally arrived, I was ready to go. I didn't have to struggle with nervousness and self-doubt, I was so well practiced that my body naturally knew what to do. All I had to do was bring my body in to the show in the best condition possible. Thanks to Jennifer's expertise, I came into both of my competitions this year with my most superior conditioning to date.

I am very proud to have represented Jennifer Abrams in two shows this spring, one in Davenport, Iowa where I won the light weight division and went on to win the overall in women's open bodybuilding, and in Austin, Texas where I won the light weight division. We competed as a team at the show in Iowa, and Jen saw to it that our every need was met all day long. Although Jennifer wasn't able to come with me to Texas, she was available to me at all times via text, email or phone calls. In fact, she would check in on me two and sometimes three times a day to see how I was feeling and how I was doing. She went above and beyond anything I could have ever asked of her during my entire competition season. I can't imagine competing again without having Coach Jen on my side.

I would recommend Jennifer Abrams to any person who is looking to improve themselves inside and out. She has taught me to compete with grace and class, and to handle myself with dignity and pride. She taught me to believe that I belong on that stage with any other competitor and to always believe I am capable of winning every show that I enter. Jennifer turned a timid, mediocre competitor into a strong, confident, fierce competitor. I am eternally grateful that Jennifer Abrams was introduced into my life this year. I am also thankful that I was wise enough to recognize her for the gift she truly is and to respect her and treat her as such. I think so highly of Jennifer that she will be taking the lead in my off season training efforts and will be preparing me for any upcoming competition endeavors.

2010-04-24T22:04:00.005-05:00

My Client Diane Wins Lt. Wt Class @ "Teaxs Shredder Classic" in Austin Texas!! That's two Lt. Wt. wins 2 weeks apart!!

So very proud of you Diane!!

http://www.texasshredderclassic.com/

2010-04-23T15:29:00.004-05:00

Olivia Lee Otto has arrived!!!

My little niece was born

April 22nd. and weighed 8lbs. 7 oz. She is just beautiful!! My sister is doing well after delivery and big sister Annabelle just loves "her baby:)"!

2010-04-19T13:22:00.008-05:00

A hike in the woods...
on a beautiful day:)

One of the many ways we feed our souls:)

2010-04-15T19:52:00.005-05:00

More Photos from Saturday, April 10th!!

2010-04-11T16:59:00.009-05:00

"Team Abrams" Wins Team Trophy
NPC Big Bea Event April 10th, 2010!

NPC Mid-States Muscle Classic and Grand Prix Natural Promotor and long-time friend
Kevin Noble and I get a chance to visit before the night show:) His show is coming up on...
May 22nd in Rockford, IL - http://www.kevinnoble.com/

DEXTER!!

Dexter and the ladies!

2010-04-11T04:41:00.003-05:00

A Big Bea Event!!
"Team Abrams" wins the team trophy in Davenport, Iowa!!
Not only that but...
Diane wins lt. wt. bbing class and Women's open overall!
Phil wins Masters 40-44 class and remains the title holder for the 2nd year!
Jenny takes 2nd place in figure tall class- her very 1st competition!
Wyatt takes 3rd place in Masters 35-39 class - 1st competition!
Rebin looses a TOTAL of 100 pounds and competes in the figure short class!
and
Megan achieves her goal of adding more muscle to her frame over the past year and competing as a middle wt.!
Congrats to all 6 of you! It has been an unbelievable pleasure working with each of you and I look forward to all of your future plans and my involvement in them!!

Coach Jen:)

**Terry took over 1500 photos at the show!!! There aren't enough thank you's for his work!! Photos will be posted as soon as I receive the cd's!

2010-04-05T23:34:00.002-05:00

"Team Abrams"- April 10th, 2010

From left to right; Phil, Wyatt,

Jenny, Megan, Rebin, Diane

These 6 athletes will be competing this Saturday in Davenport, Iowa!

2010-04-04T10:45:00.012-05:00

A Blessed Easter Sunday To All!!

A Biblical quote for today...
"I am the resurrection and the life: He who believes in me, though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in me,
shall never die."

-John 11:25-2

My family also celebrates today...the 70th Wedding Anniversary of my grandparents! Today they will be renewing their vows at Easter Mass! Grandma is 89 and Grandpa is 90!
I will tell you that I have never met a more precious couple in my life...they have raised 5 children together ( my mom being their 3rd gift :)) and have brought love and laughter to more lives than you can ever imagine. They now have more grandchildren and greatgranchildren than I can count!
My grandmother was the "sunshine" lady for her senior group when they would travel and enjoy time with their friends. She would be responsible for cheering everyone up who was down...I honestly don't know a better nick-name for her...she will always be the "sunshine lady" to me!! Grandpa has always been the quiet one, the one who has always had my grandmother's hand...even now at 90..he still reaches for her hand to help her as best he can...something I think you would have to see for yourself, to truly understand...

My grandparents learned to waterski when they were 40 years young, when they bought their boat!! That wooden boat still runs 50 years later, in Wisconsin with their two other daughters and many grand and great grandchildren! The "FUNMOBILE" still brings laughter and joy to all who set foot on it. Last summer when I skied behind that boat I remembered my grandmother behind it at 71 years old still waterskiing! My grandfather driving and her giving the thums up or down to speed up or slow down....LOL...he couldn't hear her yelling at him of course with the soundf of the motor and the fact that his hearing aid was turned down;) so she would "Wooooo" from behind the boat with that unbelievable smile on her face! My cousin Laura and I laugh and still agree that our "wild side" most definitely comes from Veronica!!:))

Congradulations to two people who exemplify what it means to love...for better or worse!
We will enjoy sharing this beautiful day with you!!!

2010-04-04T10:21:00.010-05:00

The 20th Anniversary For The Mid-Illinois Classic...

Pictures of Megan from yesterday's competition!

You did what you set out to do, only your second year competing...you wanted to add more muscle to your frame and that you did! Very proud of your 5th place Meg! Enjoy today...but then your team needs ya next Saturday in Iowa!!:)

Yes, I KNOW I look like an Irish ghost monster next to little 116 lb. Megan:))..LOL!

2010-04-04T09:58:00.011-05:00

Easter Events With The Kids...

A fun Easter egg hunt for the kids last weekend and then an early morning egg gathering event at Dominick's yesterday morning befor leaving for Ottawa, IL for Megan's competition!

Always finding a way to fit as much fun in as possible!

Easter Egg Fun @ Dominick's 7:30 am. before leaving for Ottawa...

2010-04-02T19:46:00.007-05:00

April 3rd-Mid-Illinois Classic- Ottawa, IL

I hope to see many of you tomorrow for Jeff and Ann Johnson's show! Fabulous show and wonderful promotors! One of my personal favorite's:) as it is the very first bodybuilding competition I ever entered. I am also in the Hall of fame as the 2005 overall winner. Then in 2008 I prepared my client/ friend Karen Hansen for their show and she won the overall. You can check out the hall of fame pics and hundreds of other outstanding competitors on their website!
www.flexgymonline.com

My client Megan will be competing in the light wt. class! I will be there to cheer her on of course and help promote the natural NPC show I will be guest posing at May 29th in Iowa! Just got the posters in the mail today from promotor Keith Watts...LOVE um! Great job Keith!

In other news; We have been under construction this week at "Abrams Gym "...
Yes, as all of my clients know we have been up and running since August but now our entry and bathroom will be complete to make things look as they should! A new page will soon be added to my site so you can all see the gym here in Fox River Grove! The equipment list includes; Standard squat rack, bench press, leg ext., hamstring curl machine, Olympic bars, seated row, lat. pull down machine, preacher bench, plates of all wt. and dumbells from 5 lbs.- 70 lbs.

Coach Jen;)

2010-03-19T20:54:00.017-05:00

Guest Posing -May 29th- Dubuque, Iowa
Thank you to promoter, Keith Watts for the wonderful opportunity to guest pose again!
Guest posing is always the highest honor as a bodybuilder, in my opinion. The entry forms/ ticket information is being updated to the Iowa website. I will post the link when the info. is available for viewing.
Hope to see many of you there!
Jen:)

2010-03-10T11:06:00.001-06:00

"Rock" Gallery- New Update in members area!

2010-03-08T12:35:00.011-06:00

The Arnold Expo. 2010...
Just got back from Ohio yesterday. My clients/friends so graciously allowed my 3 children and I to stay with them and their 5 children for the weekend- as they are just 20 minutes from the Arnold events. Yes- I said 8 kids..LOL! It was a full house for sure but the kids had a GREAT time!! Thank you again 100x over Kevin and Nora!!
Here are some pictures from the expo. on Friday.
( The giant 42 lb. 2 yr. old in the photos is Logan.)

2010-02-28T23:42:00.002-06:00

THANK YOU SO MUCH...to everyone who made this weekend so very special for me! I had such a wonderful birthday filled with so many birthday wishes and extreemly thoughtful gifts...I was spoiled by all...I am a very, very lucky lady!!
Jen:))

2010-02-17T09:13:00.004-06:00

Feb. 26th 2010... My 35th Birthday!
In less than 10 days I will be celebrating my 35th birthday:) I would like to share some of the many blessings my life has known thus far...
I spent most of my childhood years growing up in California...swinging on the palm tree branches from the roof-top of our house (ahh the things mom never saw:), weekly trips to the beach...climbing the sand dunes, building sandcastles, the sound of the waves rolling in as my sister, brother and I played until we the sun went down. Walking the huge Santa Monica pier, the fishermen who would camp out all day for that big catch.
I remember sliding around in the back of the big "green machine" as we lovingly called my mother's station wagon. Those winding roads down to and back from the beach were filled with great laughter and fun!
All the trips to Disney we took as a family while we were there...the Christmas mornings we would run outside to ride our bikes after we opened what Santa had brought. It never got colder than 65 degrees..EVER!
Cleaning out and filling our swimming pool in our back yard each year...it was an ALL DAY event! Riding my bike to school each day, trips to the library for the summer reading list!
Being a "Can-Can" girl for the school play in 4th grade:)
All the dance classes and performances, parades I marched in with Brownies and Girl Scouts.
How AMAZING every Birthday party and HOLIDAY was....because my MOTHER made it that way!! She was the world to me..still is!

Then the news my dad was being transferred back to Chicago (home to both my parents and their families)- we were moving ...I will never forget that day...tears rolling down our faces embarking upon a journey that would change all of our lives by starting somewhere new. The three day road trip to arrive in Illinois was a fun adventure....but pulling up in the driveway of our new home was a quiet moment for me. I was 11 and I would struggle to adjust to this new place we would grow to love so much...

We went sledding and ice skating and learned to really love the meaning of "A white Christmas"! I danced and I danced and I danced!!!! As much as my parents would allow...it became everything to me! I ran track - as a sprinter , tried cheerleading for a year also. I played 3 different instruments but realized that my passion was moving to that music rather than playing it. I auditioned and was accepted to the Chicago Academy for the Arts on scholarship- WOW- how amazing that felt! I turned it down to attend a public high school and dancing and many studios in the city and suburbs- a summer scholarship at Joel Hall as well.
That decision would most definitely take my life down a path that would have been very different had I taken the scholarship to the arts high school...a decision I am happy with to this day! Thank you mom and dad for your help and support through that!!

Then there were all those water skiing and barefoot water skiing memories with my uncle Phil! Those cold September and October runs were simply awesome! We'd ski until the bugs were hitting us in the face, the sun was sinking into the horizon and finally it was dark..Take your breath away moments! Phil (my mom's youngest brother) taught me to barefoot and gave me memories on the river and lakes that I will treasure always!
What a rush it is to feel the water under your feet...spray in your face, the sound of the boat, pulling on that handle to slalom across the wake. Riding that wake sitting down until you plant your feet firmly and instantly in the water, with the big possibility you could wipe out completely...OR plant your feet perfectly and fly across the water-like flight on water- barefoot- an experience only those crazy enough to try will know...LOL! The wipeouts were world class let me tell ya! Good times!

I have watched the sunrise from Hawaii's famous Haleakala peak...I played in the 7 famous ponds with my parents, sister and brother as well. I have loved with all I am and had my heart broken...walking away was one of the most difficult things to do-to find the man/friend I would share many adventures with and marry 4 years later.
I built friendships I still have to this day...those few special friends you can call at your lowest or highest moments of life that welcome you with open arms- Dana!

The road trips...ahhhh the road trips! Oh the places we've been!! The long 22 hr. road trips to Florida with friends Candi and Margaret...the laughter and memories we will never get tired of remembering:) Bungee jumping in Cancun Mexico and being the ONLY sober person on the entire trip..LOL...I was the story teller of that trip:)
Sky-diving in Florida with Candi and then a second time with my husband ( when we were still dating)....That moment in the airplane when you push down all your fears, adrenaline flooding your veins and without hesitation...JUMP....the feel of the air against your face and how small you realize you actually are...for that brief time, all those flying dreams become reality....

Backpacking in the back country:) Michael teaching me how to pump my drinking water from the streams, rivers. Hanging our packs in the trees so the bears wouldn't get into them or eat us!! Sterges..for the big biker event, climbing to the top of a Faye peak with our friend and travel partner Tim- he'll never forgive me for eating all his trail mix and m&m's..LOL!
All the fun we had clubbing in San Francisco, in the city of Chicago and more!
Sleeping on the beach near the Red Wood forest, the wet socks tied to the back of the car..LOL...
Cave spunking, river rafting, that plane ride with 5 dollar Frank-thought we were all going to die that day! Death Valley...watching the tire of Tim's truck roll past us on the highway- while we were in the vehicle...ohh that was a good one! Seeing "big bird" while driving at 3am. (Jim)!
We were on the road for weeks at a time...wind in our hair and adventure at every turn!
Rock climbing in West Virginia, Seattle Washington, jumpin' into every body of water we found and many, many more memories....

Then, after earning my associates degree from a community college I went away to school for my Junior and Senior years to earn my bachelor's degree- Western Illinois University...
the first time I would live on my own...
and find my wings...
I danced in the dance company, worked 3 part-time jobs and took 23 credit hrs...LOL sound crazy..it was...and I LOVED every single second of it!!! Competed in my first bodybuilding competition and trained with the guys of "North Quad" gym on campus. Some really fun times...I think I laughed more during my time with those guys than ever...eating steamed chicken while everyone else ate nachos. Smitty looking at my plate and yanking away my food cause he was so hungry he was gonna eat his arm off ( my mixed pairs partner for that 1st show- the guy who talked me into competing). They all took me under their wing to help me with that first show..I will always be grateful for that first competition experience...who would have guessed what I would turn that into:))
Driving home to see all my brother's football games and Michael and I taking turns every other weekend to drive to see each other...put a lot of miles on that fire red Beretta during those years!

Then a trip to Venus Beach California...got my belly button pierced, and wanted to move there!! I had finished my internship at the Sears Fitness Center World Headquarters and was working for Leo Burnett Advertising..at their fitness center (Revisions) in the city.....but life had other plans...and beautiful ones....
I was going to be a mother...I was going to have a baby...
We planned our wedding in 6 months...invited 300 people on Father's Day 1998! It was a fairytale wedding, 2 wedding showers, 2 baby showers and we bought our first home- a duplex just minutes from our parents'.
Our beautiful angel Alyssa Lynn was born in September...just 3 months after the big wedding!
I was waitressing at night and personal training by day- both part-time for a large chain in the suburbs...I decided to compete again when Alyssa was 15 months old...I won the overall and the bodybuilding story begins to snowball...

I started working at Skadden Arps Law Firm managing their fitness center...we moved to our home we have now lived in for 7 years and we got a puppy..."Spirit"
Then we had baby #2...our son Wade Michael!
Competed again when he was 17 months old and many more times thereafter...
I was building my clientele and my name in the bodybuilding and fitness industry...
"TEAM ABRAMS" became a recognized name...the start of the website....my own business -"STEPS TO SUCCESS"!
Long summer afternoons playing by the river, the amazing clients that touched my life and brought so much meaning to my life as a professional, and as a person!
Loosing Grandpa....my husband's father...a loss that would change all of us!!
Watching as other people close to us also lost loved ones...

The trying times... the ups and downs of life as a carpenter for Michael, would bring our family...then I competed at the Team U in 2006 and filmed my dvd. I took 3rd and was broken hearted but quickly found a "reason" for all of it. I had a miscarriage from an unexpected pregnancy after that show....
I quickly realized our family was incomplete and we had baby #3..LOGAN GARY...(Gary is my husband's father's name:)...I took a rain check on the honor of guest posing
"Return of the Lion" for promoter Kevin Noble to have our big boy Logie-bear....and as you all know, I redeemed that rain check last year when I performed "Return of the Lion", climbing out of that incredible cage my husband built for my performance! Walking alongside so many incredible people as they fullfilled their goals of competing!

The adventures have been incredible...I have experienced enough pain and sorrow to keep me humble and keep me so thankful and appreciative of the gifts in my life!
I don't know what life holds for me next but I do know I will make the most of whatever comes my way! I have my husband and children, both my parents, my sister, my brother, my best friend Dana and many other very important people in my life that have brought so many incredible moments and memories to the past 35 years...I could not ask for anything more of these years...I have a house full of healthy, happy kids, a man who loves me for "who I am" not what I am, I have a successful business and I have been able to pursue and fulfill my dreams while having all of this.
There is no greater success...there is no greater happiness!
Jen:)

2010-02-01T22:00:00.001-06:00

"Snowfall" gallery updated in my members area...

2010-01-27T08:34:00.011-06:00

Mike Oravis Wins Heavy Weight Title!!

Hayward, Wisconsin!

My cousin up north won the heavy wt. title at a local fight last weekend- Way to go big guy! From one heavy wt. to another!

Here are a few pics:)

2010-01-13T15:23:00.038-06:00

The Faces of Spring/Summer 2010
Introductions are in order... Below you will find a photo list of all the clients I am assisting in their contest preparations at this time (in no particular order).
For a list of the competitions they are preparing for see my home page.
Phil

Laura- bodybuilding

Meaghan-bodybuilding

Kevin

Nicole- bodybuilding

Jenny- Figure

Amanda- bodybuilding

Cortney-bodybuilding

Jean- bodybuilding

Diane- bodybuilding

Jessica- Figure (Jr. Nationals)

Rebin- Figure

Wyatt

Kathy- Figure

Karen- bodybuilding- (Jr. USA's)

2010-01-12T13:03:00.003-06:00

November 2009 photos updated to "Team Abrams" page...
http://jenniferabrams.net/teamabrams.html

- Also a new welcome letter and schedule of my events for 2010 on the home page.

2010-01-01T11:24:00.001-06:00

Happy New Year To All...2010!
Wishing you all a year filled with memories to last a lifetime!

2010-01-01T11:13:00.013-06:00

Christmas Memories 2009!

Yes Virginia, There is a Santa Claus

2009-12-25T12:37:00.000-06:00

Yes Virginia, There is a Santa Claus

2009-12-15T09:27:00.001-06:00

**Posted to my members journal...a list of all the competitions this spring I have clients competing at.

2009-12-13T22:39:00.010-06:00

A Ride on the "Polar Express"!!

The 1st Gift of Christmas!!

A magical "bell" from Santa's Sleigh!

2009-12-01T22:31:00.001-06:00

Quote For Today..."My life is my message."

Author: Mahatma Ghandi

2009-11-30T20:39:00.002-06:00

Our Christmas Tree 2009!

2009-11-26T12:34:00.005-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving!!

Happy Birthday to my Mom!!

2009-11-25T15:39:00.004-06:00

Sample Picture From My Member's Gallery Update...
"Classic Black"

**Several posts in my member's journal about my competition plans for next year and the many changes to the NPC National schedule!!

2009-11-18T09:05:00.018-06:00

Team Abrams- November 14, 2009
NPC Natural Mid-States Muscle Classic XXII
Rockford, IL
http://www.kevinnoble.com/

After many months for these 3 clients, they finally finished what they started! Although I still feel that the journey is far more valuable than the destination...their destination did give them each great satisfaction...for all 3 had reached their personal goals!

Nicole, looking so confident and proud,(female bodybuilder in the hvy. wt. class) lost over 40 lbs. during this process and found a renewed sence of self after going through some very difficult challenges over the past 5 years. Nicole is a single mother of two young girls!

John lost 50 lbs. on his road to this competition. His journey brings him to a place he would like to maintain as a life long lifestyle. I have never worked with a client who remains so motivated and positive every single step of the way! John and his wife have two sons.

Danae looked stunning again and was very proud to have placed in her first two shows! She plans to compete again as this was such a wonderful experience! Danae is the mother of 4!! Three year old twins!! Busy lady!

All three took home trophies for their kids to marvel at and as a reminder to them what they learned along the way!!

Team Abrams earned enough point to take home the team trophy, which was fun for all three of these individuals. Another beautiful team trophy to add to the Steps To Success gym!

So proud of each of you!

Jen:)
A photo with Mr. Natural Olympia and ABA promotor; John Hansen after the first half of the evening show. www.naturalolympia.com

** I have also written and posted a photo of my favorite up and coming bodybuilder from Saturday's show in my members journal! This young man is someone to keep on eye on in the future!!!

2009-11-17T14:33:00.002-06:00

Quote For Today...

"Life is a pure flame,

and we live by an invisible sun within us.

By: Sir Thomas Brown

2009-11-06T15:21:00.001-06:00

Quote For Today...

"'We will either find a way, or make one!"
Hannibal

2009-11-04T16:24:00.004-06:00

Quote For Today...
"The supreme courage of life is the courage of the soul. It is living, day by day, sincerely, steadfastly, serenely,- despite all opinions, all obsticles, all opposition. It means the wine of inspiration from the crushed grapes of our sorrows. This courage makes the simplest life, great: it makes the greatest life- sublime. It means the royal dignity of fine individual living-"

Author: William George Jordan

2009-10-31T16:31:00.002-05:00

Happy Halloween!!

We had fun on our first trick-or-treating round:) Logan took a nap and now we are going back out for round two. Kids are so cute as they always are! Hope you are all having a great weekend...with kids, friends, family, training or just relaxing!!

Jen;)

2009-10-31T16:30:00.000-05:00

Happy Halloween!!!

2009-10-31T16:29:00.000-05:00

Logan ..."Bam-Bam" for Halloween..climbing trees already at 2:)

2009-10-31T16:28:00.001-05:00

Wade the Barbarian!!!

2009-10-31T16:28:00.000-05:00

Helping out in Wade's Kindergarten class for Halloween party:) This is how I "contain" Logan to help...LOL:))

2009-10-31T16:26:00.000-05:00

Wade and Little Annie- my niece:)

2009-10-31T16:25:00.001-05:00

My mom as Peter Pan, my sister as a Baby (she is expecting!!), and Alyssa as a Candy Corn Witch. Me- a Cave Woman and cavemommy to the two little barbarian boys:)