Read our inspiration blog on how there is more to the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders than you think by Ann Lux.
After recently becoming engaged, I have taken time to reflect on what kind of
woman I want to be as a wife and hopefully a mother. In taking this next step in
my life, I realize I will no longer be making decisions to please only my
parents, although I still hope to make them proud. I now have a bigger purpose
and something greater to live for.
The other day I came across a quote
comparing a woman of the world to a women of God. Growing up in a Christian
home, I have always had a good moral compass and have done my best to be a good
person. As I have grown spiritually, I realize that being a Christian isn't
about doing good deeds or being a good person. Being a Christian is about having
a relationship with Christ, growing in faith and being transformed into His
image. I realize no one is perfect, but what an amazing goal.
When I read
this quote I thought of Kelli, the director of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders,
who I have had the pleasure of getting to know over the last two years. She is a
very inspiring person and challenges us to grow. After sharing the quote with
her, she asked me to write an article about what it means to me.
Where
do I begin? I have learned so much the last few years and in my life that I
think I could write forever!
In the DCC world and through life in
general, it is easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle and only see YOUR
plans, disregarding that there is a higher power and something bigger for your
life than the "right now." From my perspective, DCC has been a huge growing
experience. It would be very easy to become a vain, greedy, coarse,
obsessed-with-fame person (as the quote says), BUT if you take a step back and
see that each individual woman has a purpose on the team besides "the skinny
one," "the powerful dancer" or "the swimsuit calendar cover girl," we see that
we are much more than just the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders.
We are blessed with women like Brittany Evans, "the precious heart
that loves the Lord and can make you smile no matter how bad of a day you are
having," or Jackie Bob, "the comedian that can always make you laugh and
help you realize that we need to lighten the mood and have fun," or Ally
Traylor, "the one who cares so much for others and wants everything to be
the best it can be," or Nicole Bulcher, "who is just as beautiful on the
inside as she is on the outside," or ANN LUX, with a poker face, dry wit
and a great sense of humor that loves to make everyone laugh and genuinely cares
for all of her teammates more than anything ... AND can always fix their hair in
a crisis situation!" :).
Together, we are a perfect recipe to make a difference in the community and
in the world. We work together as a team for a purpose greater than
ourselves.
In closing I would like to share the quote:
"Women of
God can never be like women of the world. The world has enough women who are
tough; we need women who are tender. There are enough women who are coarse; we
need women who are kind. There are enough women who are rude; we need women who
are refined. We have enough women of fame and fortune; we need more women of
faith. We have enough greed; we need more goodness. We have enough vanity; we
need more virtue. We have enough popularity; we need more purity".
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
FITNESS BLOG: Keeping Workouts Fun
Read our fitness blog on how to keep workouts fun by Sydney Durso.
As a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader and a role model to many people, it is important for us to stay healthy and fit all year long. We must look and feel our best for our annual swimsuit calendar shoot, appearances, USO tour, children's camps, football games, and much more.
This week we will be shooting our 2013 DCC Swimsuit Calendar in paradise! With that in mind, many of you have asked on Twitter, how the DCC stay toned, so I thought I would share a few of my personal secrets.
I have incorporated health and fitness into my daily lifestyle. While a killer workout at the gym is great, I wouldn't necessarily call myself an addict. It is important to change up a fitness routine from time to time in order to stay motivated and focused.
Growing up in the Rio Grande Valley, a short drive away from South Padre Island, I often reminisce about morning runs on a beautiful beach, skimboarding, and doing yoga in the sand. I crave sunshine! While these "beachy" activities are not necessarily something you will find here in Dallas, I have discovered other great things to do around the Metroplex that keep me moving.
Jay Johnson offers many great outdoor (and indoor) boot camps for people of all ages to get fit and stay fit. Like I mentioned in my previous article, Skinny as a Frog, Jay is beyond motivating and enthusiastic when it comes to pushing you to be in the best shape of your life and helping you reach your goals. Also, kayaking, water skiing, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding are great water sports that build muscle and improve body alignment. Who wouldn't want to spend a beautiful day at the lake while getting in a great workout at the same time?
Tennis is also an incredible total-body workout. Grab a racket, tennis balls, a friend or two, and hit the courts. And last but not least, my personal favorite, dance. Dancing has always been a passion of mine. It feels great to let loose and have fun while reaping the benefits of the exercise at the same time.
I try to work out four to six times a week, and I love to have fun when I do so. Things such as dance classes, running outdoors, doing yoga, and playing tennis fill me up with the energy I need to keep my interest for health and fitness high.
Here are a few exercises I do at the gym on a weekly basis:
Glutes/Legs
————————————
- Glute Raises (on floor)
- Single-Leg Bridge-Ups or Regular Bridge-Ups (leg at 45-degrees and keep knees together)
- Resistance Band Walking Squats with Kick-Backs (keep your weight in your heels)
- Standing Side Kicks (great for your outer hips, glutes and inner thighs)
- Jump Lunges (keep your abs tight)
- Double Lunges
- Stiff-Legged Dead Lifts (PROPER FORM MUST BE USED!)
- Walking Lunges with a Twist (with or without a weighted medicine ball)
Obliques/Lats
————————————
- Assisted Parallel Close Grip and Wide Grip Pull-Ups
- Hyperextensions
- Back Extensions (with or without weight)
- Wide Grip and Close Grip Lat Pull-Downs
- Assisted Chin-Ups
Core
————————————
- Medicine Ball Twists
- Ab Roller
- Decline Oblique Sit-Ups
- Hanging Leg Raises
- Air Bike
- Standard Sit-Ups or Crunches (and modified sit-ups such as changing your arms to bend above your head or straight above your head and changing your legs to flat out in front of you or up in the air, etc.)
When starting a new workout program, only choose a few exercises with which you are comfortable and do as many repetitions as you can. With practice, you will increase your strength and endurance and be able to add more exercise and/or more repetitions of each exercise.
What is your favorite fitness exercise or activity?
As a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader and a role model to many people, it is important for us to stay healthy and fit all year long. We must look and feel our best for our annual swimsuit calendar shoot, appearances, USO tour, children's camps, football games, and much more.
This week we will be shooting our 2013 DCC Swimsuit Calendar in paradise! With that in mind, many of you have asked on Twitter, how the DCC stay toned, so I thought I would share a few of my personal secrets.
I have incorporated health and fitness into my daily lifestyle. While a killer workout at the gym is great, I wouldn't necessarily call myself an addict. It is important to change up a fitness routine from time to time in order to stay motivated and focused.
Growing up in the Rio Grande Valley, a short drive away from South Padre Island, I often reminisce about morning runs on a beautiful beach, skimboarding, and doing yoga in the sand. I crave sunshine! While these "beachy" activities are not necessarily something you will find here in Dallas, I have discovered other great things to do around the Metroplex that keep me moving.
Jay Johnson offers many great outdoor (and indoor) boot camps for people of all ages to get fit and stay fit. Like I mentioned in my previous article, Skinny as a Frog, Jay is beyond motivating and enthusiastic when it comes to pushing you to be in the best shape of your life and helping you reach your goals. Also, kayaking, water skiing, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding are great water sports that build muscle and improve body alignment. Who wouldn't want to spend a beautiful day at the lake while getting in a great workout at the same time?
Tennis is also an incredible total-body workout. Grab a racket, tennis balls, a friend or two, and hit the courts. And last but not least, my personal favorite, dance. Dancing has always been a passion of mine. It feels great to let loose and have fun while reaping the benefits of the exercise at the same time.
I try to work out four to six times a week, and I love to have fun when I do so. Things such as dance classes, running outdoors, doing yoga, and playing tennis fill me up with the energy I need to keep my interest for health and fitness high.
Here are a few exercises I do at the gym on a weekly basis:
Glutes/Legs
————————————
- Glute Raises (on floor)
- Single-Leg Bridge-Ups or Regular Bridge-Ups (leg at 45-degrees and keep knees together)
- Resistance Band Walking Squats with Kick-Backs (keep your weight in your heels)
- Standing Side Kicks (great for your outer hips, glutes and inner thighs)
- Jump Lunges (keep your abs tight)
- Double Lunges
- Stiff-Legged Dead Lifts (PROPER FORM MUST BE USED!)
- Walking Lunges with a Twist (with or without a weighted medicine ball)
Obliques/Lats
————————————
- Assisted Parallel Close Grip and Wide Grip Pull-Ups
- Hyperextensions
- Back Extensions (with or without weight)
- Wide Grip and Close Grip Lat Pull-Downs
- Assisted Chin-Ups
Core
————————————
- Medicine Ball Twists
- Ab Roller
- Decline Oblique Sit-Ups
- Hanging Leg Raises
- Air Bike
- Standard Sit-Ups or Crunches (and modified sit-ups such as changing your arms to bend above your head or straight above your head and changing your legs to flat out in front of you or up in the air, etc.)
When starting a new workout program, only choose a few exercises with which you are comfortable and do as many repetitions as you can. With practice, you will increase your strength and endurance and be able to add more exercise and/or more repetitions of each exercise.
What is your favorite fitness exercise or activity?
DCC Of The Week: Jenna Allison
Our DCC Of The Week is Jenna Allison!!! Read below for all kinds of information about this rookie cheerleader!
Birth Place: Houston, TX
Occupation: Student
Career Goal: I want to be a personal trainer and specialize in weight loss. I hope to open my own gym, boot camp programs, or dance facility.
Lifetime Goal: I want to get married to the love of my life and have a big family filled with love and happiness.
Hobbies: Painting, cooking, and working out
First Job: Sales Representative at Forever XXI
Favorite type of music: Hip Hop/Rap
All-time favorite song: Crossroads – Bone Thugs N Harmony
Favorite meal: Filet mignon, asparagus, and mashed potatoes
Junk food weakness: Chicken nuggets at Chick-Fil-A
Favorite sport to play: Sand volleyball
Favorite time of year and why: Fall because it is just cool enough and I love Halloween and the State Fair. Also it means my birthday is around the corner!
What would you do if you won the lottery?: I would pay back my Dad for supporting me all through college, set up an educational scholarship fund, and open my own gym with a organic smoothie shop inside!
What's something unique about you that most people don't know?: My great-grandmother was Miss Dallas and I was named after the character Jenna on the show "Dallas."
I've always wanted to: Go to culinary school
If you looked in the trunk of my car you would find: Weights, school books, random clothes, a tennis racket, and old water bottles
Describe your personal style: Laid back and hippy, oversized shirts with prints
The song that best describes me is: Man in the Mirror – Michael Jackson
Words to live by/Favorite Quote: Live life and love to the fullest, no regrets!
My best and worst habits are: My best habit is my work ethic, I always follow through. My worst habit is messing with my eyelashes.
If I had a different job, I'd be: A private chef, cooking for dinner parties and events.
My ideal vacation is: Costa Rica. I love the beach and exotic places!
BEAUTY BLOG: Bedhead Beautiful
Read our beauty blog today with how a 4-year veteran preps her hair each day.
My mornings always start out with a really, really bad hairdo when I get out
of bed. I can't sleep if I have any hair touching my neck, so I snooze with a
giant, messy bun-concoction-type thing on the very top of my head. Therefore,
when I wake up and let my hair down, I have a crinkly mess. Thank goodness there
are Bedhead products to get me through the entire day.
I wash my hair every other day so that it doesn't dry out. On the days that I don't wash it, I use Bedhead's "Dirty Secret" dry shampoo on my roots, which gives it volume and soaks up any oils in my hair. It's in a black bottle with a green top. I also spray dry conditioner, in a silver bottle, on hair from my ears down. Both of these products are from the "Rockaholic" line, and they both work wonders! Plus, the dry conditioner smells great.
For the days that I do wash my hair, I use their detangling spray right after my wash. Then I spray "Your Highness" root boost on my roots while I am blow-drying and round-brushing my hair. It gives my thin hair so much more volume. Sometimes I also use the blow dry lotion that protects your hair from heat.
After my blow dry, if I straighten my hair I don't use much product, just the Bedhead flat iron. However, if I curl it with my Bedhead curl stick, I use a couple of different products. Before curling each section of hair, I spray "Your Highness" firm hold hairspray, to make it easier to curl my layers. This unique curling iron is literally just a hot stick with no clamp, so it's easy to burn yourself if you don't use the right technique. But by using the firm hold spray, all my layers in each section of hair kind of stick together, so I don't burn my fingers trying to hold each piece down on the curl stick.
All you do after that is wrap the hair around it, starting from the large part of the curl stick then working your way down. My hair looks better if I curl it in a direction away from my face, but some people like to curl their hair the opposite way. After I am finished using the curl stick, I spray the cleverly named "Totally Beachin" body waves and styling mist. Not only does it make my hair fall into beautiful waves rather than tight curls, but it also smells amazing. The bottle says it is vanilla, mango and coconut, which I think makes your hair smell like a relaxing day on the beach!
I have many more Bedhead products that I use on other occasions, but this is my day-to-day hair routine in a nutshell. Whether you have a job like mine (and our hair must be perfect enough to represent the DCC!), or even a job where your hairstyle doesn't matter, Bedhead has the product for you. I hope some of you will go out and try these products because they really do make life much easier!
I wash my hair every other day so that it doesn't dry out. On the days that I don't wash it, I use Bedhead's "Dirty Secret" dry shampoo on my roots, which gives it volume and soaks up any oils in my hair. It's in a black bottle with a green top. I also spray dry conditioner, in a silver bottle, on hair from my ears down. Both of these products are from the "Rockaholic" line, and they both work wonders! Plus, the dry conditioner smells great.
For the days that I do wash my hair, I use their detangling spray right after my wash. Then I spray "Your Highness" root boost on my roots while I am blow-drying and round-brushing my hair. It gives my thin hair so much more volume. Sometimes I also use the blow dry lotion that protects your hair from heat.
After my blow dry, if I straighten my hair I don't use much product, just the Bedhead flat iron. However, if I curl it with my Bedhead curl stick, I use a couple of different products. Before curling each section of hair, I spray "Your Highness" firm hold hairspray, to make it easier to curl my layers. This unique curling iron is literally just a hot stick with no clamp, so it's easy to burn yourself if you don't use the right technique. But by using the firm hold spray, all my layers in each section of hair kind of stick together, so I don't burn my fingers trying to hold each piece down on the curl stick.
All you do after that is wrap the hair around it, starting from the large part of the curl stick then working your way down. My hair looks better if I curl it in a direction away from my face, but some people like to curl their hair the opposite way. After I am finished using the curl stick, I spray the cleverly named "Totally Beachin" body waves and styling mist. Not only does it make my hair fall into beautiful waves rather than tight curls, but it also smells amazing. The bottle says it is vanilla, mango and coconut, which I think makes your hair smell like a relaxing day on the beach!
I have many more Bedhead products that I use on other occasions, but this is my day-to-day hair routine in a nutshell. Whether you have a job like mine (and our hair must be perfect enough to represent the DCC!), or even a job where your hairstyle doesn't matter, Bedhead has the product for you. I hope some of you will go out and try these products because they really do make life much easier!
Beauty Tip Of The Week
Here's our DCC Weekly Beauty Tip:
Get brighter eyes instantly! Curling your lashes and coating them with clear mascara will wake up your look. You'll get a really nice curl if you heat the curler with a blast of hot air from your blow dryer. Also, using a white shadow or eyeliner to line just the inside corners of your eyes helps add the illusion that your eyes are brighter and wider, so you look more awake and alert!
Check back next week for another beauty tip!
Get brighter eyes instantly! Curling your lashes and coating them with clear mascara will wake up your look. You'll get a really nice curl if you heat the curler with a blast of hot air from your blow dryer. Also, using a white shadow or eyeliner to line just the inside corners of your eyes helps add the illusion that your eyes are brighter and wider, so you look more awake and alert!
Check back next week for another beauty tip!
Health Tip Of The Week
Here's our DCC Weekly Health Tip:
Don't skip breakfast. Eating breakfast kick-starts your metabolism and helps with productivity and attention span before lunchtime. Some key breakfast tips and tricks include eating breakfast within an hour of waking up and eating one fat, one protein and one complex carb!
Check back next week for another health tip!
Don't skip breakfast. Eating breakfast kick-starts your metabolism and helps with productivity and attention span before lunchtime. Some key breakfast tips and tricks include eating breakfast within an hour of waking up and eating one fat, one protein and one complex carb!
Check back next week for another health tip!
Thursday, June 21, 2012
Cassie: Thank You Notes
Written By 4 Year Veteran: Cassie
As we say goodbye to eight veterans this year, I wanted to send them off with a sincere thank you. These girls have all made a positive impact on my life, and I will miss each and every one of them dearly.
Thank you Ann ...
... For countless happy memories, thousands of laughs, and for just being you.
... For showing the world that just because you aren't always grinning from ear to ear, you can still be one of the happiest, sweetest, and most bubbly girls on the squad.
... For being one of the most patient people on the team, and showing me that sometimes you just have to loosen up and relax.
Thank you Sasha ...
... For being one of the strongest women I have ever had the privilege of knowing.
... For being a super hero. You are an incredible mother and a teacher, and only a super hero could do all that in a day, and still have the energy to put on your game face and smile through rehearsal every night.
... For going through some really tough things and showing such poise through it all.
... For being so beautiful, classy, and optimistic at all times.
... For raising your adorable daughter to be as much of a lady as you are, and for allowing her to be my sweet little flower girl! :)
Thank you Sunni ...
... For being the person I go to when I need a good dose of dry humor, like my own!
... For being the person that anyone can talk to without feeling judged or laughed at.
... For being my sunshine this year, especially on tour. You got me through the long days!
... For being the person I will always go to when I need a little boost from an "amen sister," or when I need someone to "take the wheel."
Thank you Kelsi ...
... For bringing out the kid in everyone.
... For being an example for me by being such a hard worker, whether it is in school, at practice, or on the field.
... For having the brightest smile in any room, and making everyone around you happier.
Thank you Brittany ...
... For "smiling when you cried," and literally smiling every other second of the day.
... For making everyone in your presence happier with your sweet, loving heart.
... For showing me that an injury is just a small bump in the road, and that your determination can get you through anything.
... For always laughing at my dry humor, and putting up with me as a locker buddy for so long.
... For providing me with an example of an amazing marriage, and for showing me that you can still cheer and be the perfect wife. If I can be half as good a wife as you, I know my marriage will be successful for a long time.
Thank you Ally ...
... For being a leader for me since Day 1, and for teaching me so much about leadership.
... For being so optimistic, and finding something positive to remind me if I ever had something negative to say.
... For being the most organized person I know, and showing me everything I've learned about how to get through life as a DCC.
... For being the goofiest, yet still the classiest woman on the squad, and for always making me laugh in stressful situations.
... For teaching me the way a DCC should compose herself in ALL situations.
... For being the only person on the squad who has more hair problems than I do, and helping me laugh at my own. :)
Thank you Ashton ...
... For being my rock and my moral support for the last three years.
... For being more down to earth than you will ever realize, which is why we easily became best friends.
... For being such a hard worker, and showing me that 19 hours are possible to pass in a semester while still cheering for the Cowboys.
... For being the epitome of a strong, Christian woman. Rather than boasting about it, you taught me that it is more Christian to show it in your actions.
... For teaching me everything I know about faith. I am blessed to have had you in my life thus far.
... For being part of my wedding, and for allowing me to be a part of your special day as well.
Thank you Kaitlin ...
... For instantly welcoming me with open arms four years ago. No words can express what I will take from knowing you, but I will try.
... For being the best friend a girl could ask for.
... For easily being the most genuine and kind person I know, and for allowing every soul you cross paths with see that quality in you.
... For being the first person I call when I can't remember what movie a certain quote is from.
... For being such a little hippie, and sharing my love for some different, unique music!
... For showing me how strong a relationship can be, even during really hard times.
... For being so supportive of any decisions that any of your loved ones make.
... For not "biffing" Collin's proposal, and making up a crazy story about your brother surprising you in a field suite. Ha! :)
... For being there for me as I start a new chapter in my life, all while you're going through the same journey with me! I was more than honored and proud to have you stand next to me when I said my vows, and vice versa at your wedding.
As we say goodbye to eight veterans this year, I wanted to send them off with a sincere thank you. These girls have all made a positive impact on my life, and I will miss each and every one of them dearly.
Thank you Ann ...
... For countless happy memories, thousands of laughs, and for just being you.
... For showing the world that just because you aren't always grinning from ear to ear, you can still be one of the happiest, sweetest, and most bubbly girls on the squad.
... For being one of the most patient people on the team, and showing me that sometimes you just have to loosen up and relax.
Thank you Sasha ...
... For being one of the strongest women I have ever had the privilege of knowing.
... For being a super hero. You are an incredible mother and a teacher, and only a super hero could do all that in a day, and still have the energy to put on your game face and smile through rehearsal every night.
... For going through some really tough things and showing such poise through it all.
... For being so beautiful, classy, and optimistic at all times.
... For raising your adorable daughter to be as much of a lady as you are, and for allowing her to be my sweet little flower girl! :)
Thank you Sunni ...
... For being the person I go to when I need a good dose of dry humor, like my own!
... For being the person that anyone can talk to without feeling judged or laughed at.
... For being my sunshine this year, especially on tour. You got me through the long days!
... For being the person I will always go to when I need a little boost from an "amen sister," or when I need someone to "take the wheel."
Thank you Kelsi ...
... For bringing out the kid in everyone.
... For being an example for me by being such a hard worker, whether it is in school, at practice, or on the field.
... For having the brightest smile in any room, and making everyone around you happier.
Thank you Brittany ...
... For "smiling when you cried," and literally smiling every other second of the day.
... For making everyone in your presence happier with your sweet, loving heart.
... For showing me that an injury is just a small bump in the road, and that your determination can get you through anything.
... For always laughing at my dry humor, and putting up with me as a locker buddy for so long.
... For providing me with an example of an amazing marriage, and for showing me that you can still cheer and be the perfect wife. If I can be half as good a wife as you, I know my marriage will be successful for a long time.
Thank you Ally ...
... For being a leader for me since Day 1, and for teaching me so much about leadership.
... For being so optimistic, and finding something positive to remind me if I ever had something negative to say.
... For being the most organized person I know, and showing me everything I've learned about how to get through life as a DCC.
... For being the goofiest, yet still the classiest woman on the squad, and for always making me laugh in stressful situations.
... For teaching me the way a DCC should compose herself in ALL situations.
... For being the only person on the squad who has more hair problems than I do, and helping me laugh at my own. :)
Thank you Ashton ...
... For being my rock and my moral support for the last three years.
... For being more down to earth than you will ever realize, which is why we easily became best friends.
... For being such a hard worker, and showing me that 19 hours are possible to pass in a semester while still cheering for the Cowboys.
... For being the epitome of a strong, Christian woman. Rather than boasting about it, you taught me that it is more Christian to show it in your actions.
... For teaching me everything I know about faith. I am blessed to have had you in my life thus far.
... For being part of my wedding, and for allowing me to be a part of your special day as well.
Thank you Kaitlin ...
... For instantly welcoming me with open arms four years ago. No words can express what I will take from knowing you, but I will try.
... For being the best friend a girl could ask for.
... For easily being the most genuine and kind person I know, and for allowing every soul you cross paths with see that quality in you.
... For being the first person I call when I can't remember what movie a certain quote is from.
... For being such a little hippie, and sharing my love for some different, unique music!
... For showing me how strong a relationship can be, even during really hard times.
... For being so supportive of any decisions that any of your loved ones make.
... For not "biffing" Collin's proposal, and making up a crazy story about your brother surprising you in a field suite. Ha! :)
... For being there for me as I start a new chapter in my life, all while you're going through the same journey with me! I was more than honored and proud to have you stand next to me when I said my vows, and vice versa at your wedding.
Farewell From Ann: 2 Year Veteran
Written By Ann Lux:
Hi fans!
Before we know it, auditions will be under way and a new season will begin. As retiring cheerleaders, we have been asked to write an article reflecting on our DCC experiences and sharing our future plans.
In December, I will marry my best
friend, Will Middlebrooks. We are from the same hometown and have known each
other since we were 12 years old. He plays baseball for the Boston Red Sox
organization, and we are approaching our fourth season together. This year I am
looking forward to traveling with him, beginning my life as a baseball wife, and
being his personal cheerleader.
Now that you know a little about my fiancé, I will share a little about my bridesmaids. At the first meeting of my rookie training camp, Kelli told us to "Look around the room because some of these girls will be your bridesmaids." How did she know? I have six bridesmaids and four are my DCC sisters: Lauren Williams, Melissa Kellerman, Mia Greenhouse and Brittany Evans! They have been a special part of my life for the past two years and I love each one for a different reason. I can't imagine getting married without them standing by my side.
As I am ending one chapter of my life and starting a new one, I would like to leave a few words with my DCC family.
To the remaining wolf pack: You have made this year so much fun! From blasting music in the locker room on game day, to writing inspirational quotes to each other, to dancing with straight arms and running around acting crazy, I have truly enjoyed every minute being a part of our group.
Continue to spread positivity and joy to everyone around you! We will forever be the wolf pack!
To the rookies: You have so much to look forward to as a DCC veteran! Although it is a huge responsibility, it will be such a proud moment. Realize that each of you has a specific role. Embrace who you are and don't be afraid to share yourself with the team. Enjoy the honor of representing our organization as a veteran. I know you can't wait for the first time Kelli and Judy look at the training camp candidates and say, "Now, let's watch how our veterans do it!"
To Ally Traylor: You have had the pleasure of being my group leader the past two years! :-) But in all seriousness, you have been such an incredible leader for my two seasons as a DCC. I've never met someone so intelligent, caring, talented, poised and respectable. I'm blessed to have had the opportunity to learn from the best.
To Katelyn, Cheryl, Dan and the rest of the office staff: Thank you for everything you do for us. You work so hard and I want you to know that you are appreciated. From scheduling appearances, to working with clients, to planning every event, you make the wheels of this organization turn and we couldn't do it without you. Thank you!
To Kelli and Judy: I can't thank you enough for this amazing opportunity. Thank you for taking a chance on me, and most of all thank you for believing in me. I have grown so much from this experience, and I will always look back on this time of my life and SMILE! ;)
Through being a DCC, I have learned so much about myself. Since the first day of auditions, I put myself in a position to be judged by millions of people, and I have learned to take every judgment and correction with respect and gratitude. From this experience I have learned what it is to be a lady. It has been said that "diamonds are made under pressure." My experience has held true to this quote.
Love and cheers always,
Ann Lux
Hi fans!
Before we know it, auditions will be under way and a new season will begin. As retiring cheerleaders, we have been asked to write an article reflecting on our DCC experiences and sharing our future plans.
Now that you know a little about my fiancé, I will share a little about my bridesmaids. At the first meeting of my rookie training camp, Kelli told us to "Look around the room because some of these girls will be your bridesmaids." How did she know? I have six bridesmaids and four are my DCC sisters: Lauren Williams, Melissa Kellerman, Mia Greenhouse and Brittany Evans! They have been a special part of my life for the past two years and I love each one for a different reason. I can't imagine getting married without them standing by my side.
As I am ending one chapter of my life and starting a new one, I would like to leave a few words with my DCC family.
To the remaining wolf pack: You have made this year so much fun! From blasting music in the locker room on game day, to writing inspirational quotes to each other, to dancing with straight arms and running around acting crazy, I have truly enjoyed every minute being a part of our group.
Continue to spread positivity and joy to everyone around you! We will forever be the wolf pack!
To the rookies: You have so much to look forward to as a DCC veteran! Although it is a huge responsibility, it will be such a proud moment. Realize that each of you has a specific role. Embrace who you are and don't be afraid to share yourself with the team. Enjoy the honor of representing our organization as a veteran. I know you can't wait for the first time Kelli and Judy look at the training camp candidates and say, "Now, let's watch how our veterans do it!"
To Ally Traylor: You have had the pleasure of being my group leader the past two years! :-) But in all seriousness, you have been such an incredible leader for my two seasons as a DCC. I've never met someone so intelligent, caring, talented, poised and respectable. I'm blessed to have had the opportunity to learn from the best.
To Katelyn, Cheryl, Dan and the rest of the office staff: Thank you for everything you do for us. You work so hard and I want you to know that you are appreciated. From scheduling appearances, to working with clients, to planning every event, you make the wheels of this organization turn and we couldn't do it without you. Thank you!
To Kelli and Judy: I can't thank you enough for this amazing opportunity. Thank you for taking a chance on me, and most of all thank you for believing in me. I have grown so much from this experience, and I will always look back on this time of my life and SMILE! ;)
Through being a DCC, I have learned so much about myself. Since the first day of auditions, I put myself in a position to be judged by millions of people, and I have learned to take every judgment and correction with respect and gratitude. From this experience I have learned what it is to be a lady. It has been said that "diamonds are made under pressure." My experience has held true to this quote.
Love and cheers always,
Ann Lux
INSPIRATION BLOG: You Can Do It!
Read our very first inspiration blog on how you can still be a college student and a DCC by Emma Mary.
If you are thinking about trying out, but aren't sure how it would affect your academics, I totally understand. For me, December of 2010 was when I really started to think seriously about auditioning. I had a year of classes left, although I wasn't sure if I could balance being a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader and attending school. Finally, I decided to follow my heart and try out.
I am very proud to say that in December I graduated from TCU, and I have had an amazing rookie season! I'll admit that I had more all-night cram sessions than usual, and waking up for the first day of class after the first preseason game was not fun, but overall I have had an incredible year.
If you are thinking about trying out, but you are nervous about your grade point average, ask yourself these questions: Do you know the professors you will be taking classes from? Do you think they would understand if you had to go to a last-minute appearance? Can you conquer your procrastination tendencies? And, are you willing to sacrifice a few hours of sleep? Obviously, there is a lot more to think about, but these are some of the questions I asked myself.
Being a student and a Rookie isn't easy, but with hard work, dedication, and time management you can do it. I hope this article encourages those of you who want to try out but are worried about school. You can do it!
If you are thinking about trying out, but aren't sure how it would affect your academics, I totally understand. For me, December of 2010 was when I really started to think seriously about auditioning. I had a year of classes left, although I wasn't sure if I could balance being a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader and attending school. Finally, I decided to follow my heart and try out.
I am very proud to say that in December I graduated from TCU, and I have had an amazing rookie season! I'll admit that I had more all-night cram sessions than usual, and waking up for the first day of class after the first preseason game was not fun, but overall I have had an incredible year.
If you are thinking about trying out, but you are nervous about your grade point average, ask yourself these questions: Do you know the professors you will be taking classes from? Do you think they would understand if you had to go to a last-minute appearance? Can you conquer your procrastination tendencies? And, are you willing to sacrifice a few hours of sleep? Obviously, there is a lot more to think about, but these are some of the questions I asked myself.
Being a student and a Rookie isn't easy, but with hard work, dedication, and time management you can do it. I hope this article encourages those of you who want to try out but are worried about school. You can do it!
FITNESS BLOG: Bikini Ready
Read our very first fitness blog with tips on how to be bikini ready by Katy Marie.
All right, ladies. We love to hate it, we hate to love it: bikini season!
With summer just around the corner, I thought I'd share some tips with you on how some of us get in shape for auditions. For those of you trying out, you want to be in your best shape possible. During auditions, there are so many other things that you should be focusing on that worrying about your body should be the absolute last thing on your mind. Here are some tips for creating a healthier, happier you!
* You've heard it before, you'll hear it again: Get your sleep and drink water. Getting a full night of sleep is not only important for your physical health, but also for your mind. It's crucial to get your eight hours of sleep each night so that you can be rested and energized for the next day. Next, water is your friend! Drinking a healthy amount of water every day helps flush out your system and keeps your body hydrated. If you're regularly working out, you especially need to make sure that you're getting enough water so that your body doesn't get dehydrated. Keep your immune system up and not only will you look better, but you will feel better, too!
* Eat breakfast! The first thing that you should do in the morning is eat something for breakfast. I can't stress enough how important this is for your body. Eating breakfast in the morning gets your metabolism moving and your body starts burning those calories. Some may think that it would be better to consume zero calories rather than eating something for breakfast, but that is false. A few healthy suggestions that I have for breakfast foods are eggs, egg whites, turkey (any lean meat), whole grain toast or oatmeal. When it comes down to it, you want to eat some form of protein first thing in the morning.
* In the words of LMFAO, "I work out!" If you're looking to shed some pounds or even to maintain a healthy current weight, it's important to work out at least a few times a week. If you're planning on auditioning in May and are looking to try out some of the workouts that the DCCs do, you can!
We have several different workout plans, but a popular one is Bar Method. You can follow them on twitter @BarMethodDallas for info. Bar Method consists of toning and sculpting your muscles while you burn those calories. It's a fun way to work out and is geared toward dancers for long, lean muscles. Several of the DCCs used Bar Method to tone muscles before our recent calendar shoot.
Another workout that I have really come to enjoy is Jay's Boot Camp. You can find them on twitter @JaysBootCamp and at locations all across the Metroplex. This boot camp is a high-intensity workout that keeps you moving at all times. Every day that you show up is a different workout, so you never get bored! It keeps your heart rate up with cardio and sculpts your muscles with training exercises. For the past few months, I have been trying to do boot camp at least twice a week and I can definitely see the results. In the words of Jay Johnson, "Sweat is fat crying!"
Some other places you can find DCCs working out are:
Bikram Yoga: This is hot yoga that is good for the body and mind. It has multiple health benefits and is a great way to break a sweat!
Crossfit: We have multiple girls that use crossfit as a great way to get in shape. You can start at any level and you begin to see results fast. A good place to start is @CrossFitAddison.
Zumba: Zumba is a great class for girls that love to dance and are looking for a fun workout. It's easy to forget that you are actually exercising in a Zumba class with some of your girlfriends!
* Food. Where to begin! There are so many diets out there these days that it can be a whirlwind of your time and money trying to find what works best for you. Try to look at what you eat not as a temporary diet, but as a permanent lifestyle choice. Think of it this way, instead of choosing not to put certain things in your body, elect to put healthy foods in your everyday diet that have health benefits. Make it a goal to put lean protein and vegetables in your everyday routine.
It's better to eat a large quantity of good foods rather than a small amount of bad ones. It's about the quality of the food that you're putting into your body. Some foods that I try to incorporate into my everyday diet are chicken, turkey, fish, spinach, eggs, avocado, berries, almonds, dried fruits, and any vegetables.
Sometimes it can be more expensive to buy a healthy meal consisting of chicken and vegetables instead of a quick, cheap drive-through Taco Bell, but look at it as an investment in yourself. As they say, "You are what you eat." Eating foods that are high in nutrients and give you energy are not only better for your physical appearance, but you will feel better as well.
* If you need a little inspiration ...
All right, ladies. We love to hate it, we hate to love it: bikini season!
With summer just around the corner, I thought I'd share some tips with you on how some of us get in shape for auditions. For those of you trying out, you want to be in your best shape possible. During auditions, there are so many other things that you should be focusing on that worrying about your body should be the absolute last thing on your mind. Here are some tips for creating a healthier, happier you!
* You've heard it before, you'll hear it again: Get your sleep and drink water. Getting a full night of sleep is not only important for your physical health, but also for your mind. It's crucial to get your eight hours of sleep each night so that you can be rested and energized for the next day. Next, water is your friend! Drinking a healthy amount of water every day helps flush out your system and keeps your body hydrated. If you're regularly working out, you especially need to make sure that you're getting enough water so that your body doesn't get dehydrated. Keep your immune system up and not only will you look better, but you will feel better, too!
* Eat breakfast! The first thing that you should do in the morning is eat something for breakfast. I can't stress enough how important this is for your body. Eating breakfast in the morning gets your metabolism moving and your body starts burning those calories. Some may think that it would be better to consume zero calories rather than eating something for breakfast, but that is false. A few healthy suggestions that I have for breakfast foods are eggs, egg whites, turkey (any lean meat), whole grain toast or oatmeal. When it comes down to it, you want to eat some form of protein first thing in the morning.
* In the words of LMFAO, "I work out!" If you're looking to shed some pounds or even to maintain a healthy current weight, it's important to work out at least a few times a week. If you're planning on auditioning in May and are looking to try out some of the workouts that the DCCs do, you can!
We have several different workout plans, but a popular one is Bar Method. You can follow them on twitter @BarMethodDallas for info. Bar Method consists of toning and sculpting your muscles while you burn those calories. It's a fun way to work out and is geared toward dancers for long, lean muscles. Several of the DCCs used Bar Method to tone muscles before our recent calendar shoot.
Another workout that I have really come to enjoy is Jay's Boot Camp. You can find them on twitter @JaysBootCamp and at locations all across the Metroplex. This boot camp is a high-intensity workout that keeps you moving at all times. Every day that you show up is a different workout, so you never get bored! It keeps your heart rate up with cardio and sculpts your muscles with training exercises. For the past few months, I have been trying to do boot camp at least twice a week and I can definitely see the results. In the words of Jay Johnson, "Sweat is fat crying!"
Some other places you can find DCCs working out are:
Bikram Yoga: This is hot yoga that is good for the body and mind. It has multiple health benefits and is a great way to break a sweat!
Crossfit: We have multiple girls that use crossfit as a great way to get in shape. You can start at any level and you begin to see results fast. A good place to start is @CrossFitAddison.
Zumba: Zumba is a great class for girls that love to dance and are looking for a fun workout. It's easy to forget that you are actually exercising in a Zumba class with some of your girlfriends!
* Food. Where to begin! There are so many diets out there these days that it can be a whirlwind of your time and money trying to find what works best for you. Try to look at what you eat not as a temporary diet, but as a permanent lifestyle choice. Think of it this way, instead of choosing not to put certain things in your body, elect to put healthy foods in your everyday diet that have health benefits. Make it a goal to put lean protein and vegetables in your everyday routine.
It's better to eat a large quantity of good foods rather than a small amount of bad ones. It's about the quality of the food that you're putting into your body. Some foods that I try to incorporate into my everyday diet are chicken, turkey, fish, spinach, eggs, avocado, berries, almonds, dried fruits, and any vegetables.
Sometimes it can be more expensive to buy a healthy meal consisting of chicken and vegetables instead of a quick, cheap drive-through Taco Bell, but look at it as an investment in yourself. As they say, "You are what you eat." Eating foods that are high in nutrients and give you energy are not only better for your physical appearance, but you will feel better as well.
* If you need a little inspiration ...
DCC Of The Week: Mackenzie Lee
Our DCC Of The Week is Mackenzie Lee!! Read below for all kinds of information about this gorgeous, rookie cheerleader!
Birth Place: Jacksonville, Florida
Occupation: Insurance Agent
Career Goal: To succeed in a position that allows me to be creative, independent, and continually grow while making an impact on those around me as well as the community.
Lifetime Goal: To live a healthy and balanced life made up of equal parts love, adventure, family, friendship, travel, and faith.
Hobbies: My Hobbies include traveling, running, and spending time with friends and family.
First Job: I got my First Job teaching dance camps in the summers. After a few years, I became a regular teacher at my dance studio. I taught tap, jazz, and ballet in between the classes I took at the studio.
Favorite type of music: I love any kind of music as long as it's upbeat!
All-time favorite song: "I Wanna Dance with Somebody"
Junk food weakness: I have a huge weakness for ice cream.
Favorite sport to play: Due to my serious lack of hand-eye coordination, I'm stuck running.
Favorite time of year and why: I love the spring. I feel the best when the sun begins to shine again and everything starts to bloom. It's like everything around is full of new life and energy!
What would you do if you won the lottery?: I would need a financial advisor if I ever won the lottery. Someone would have to help me divide the winnings between the people and things that I really care about.
What's something unique about you that most people don't know?: Most people don't know that I am an only child because I love sharing!
I've always wanted to: Speak another language fluently
If you looked in the trunk of my car you would find: Who knows! Probably everything I've been missing!
Describe your personal style: Because I'm from a small beach town, I would say my style is kind of "boho-chic." I love soft and flowy fabrics and loose fitting tops.
Words to live by/Favorite Quote: Go confidently in the direction of your dreams.
I can't live without my: GPS. Learning my way around Dallas has been quite interesting!
My best and worst habits are: My best habits probably involve oral hygiene. I'm obsessed with having clean and white teeth. My worst habit is not returning phone calls and text messages.
If I had a different job, I'd be: A wedding planner
My ideal vacation is: Any place warm and near the ocean!
Birth Place: Jacksonville, Florida
Occupation: Insurance Agent
Career Goal: To succeed in a position that allows me to be creative, independent, and continually grow while making an impact on those around me as well as the community.
Lifetime Goal: To live a healthy and balanced life made up of equal parts love, adventure, family, friendship, travel, and faith.
Hobbies: My Hobbies include traveling, running, and spending time with friends and family.
First Job: I got my First Job teaching dance camps in the summers. After a few years, I became a regular teacher at my dance studio. I taught tap, jazz, and ballet in between the classes I took at the studio.
Favorite type of music: I love any kind of music as long as it's upbeat!
All-time favorite song: "I Wanna Dance with Somebody"
Junk food weakness: I have a huge weakness for ice cream.
Favorite sport to play: Due to my serious lack of hand-eye coordination, I'm stuck running.
Favorite time of year and why: I love the spring. I feel the best when the sun begins to shine again and everything starts to bloom. It's like everything around is full of new life and energy!
What would you do if you won the lottery?: I would need a financial advisor if I ever won the lottery. Someone would have to help me divide the winnings between the people and things that I really care about.
What's something unique about you that most people don't know?: Most people don't know that I am an only child because I love sharing!
I've always wanted to: Speak another language fluently
If you looked in the trunk of my car you would find: Who knows! Probably everything I've been missing!
Describe your personal style: Because I'm from a small beach town, I would say my style is kind of "boho-chic." I love soft and flowy fabrics and loose fitting tops.
Words to live by/Favorite Quote: Go confidently in the direction of your dreams.
I can't live without my: GPS. Learning my way around Dallas has been quite interesting!
My best and worst habits are: My best habits probably involve oral hygiene. I'm obsessed with having clean and white teeth. My worst habit is not returning phone calls and text messages.
If I had a different job, I'd be: A wedding planner
My ideal vacation is: Any place warm and near the ocean!
BEAUTY BLOG: Do's/Don'ts For Audition Makeup
Read our very first beauty blog with do's and don'ts for audition makeup by Nicole Bulcher.
Audition scrutiny has moved to the big screen!
During the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader tryouts that took place at Cowboys Stadium, the huge HD video board amplified everything from pores to lipstick to huge false lashes. Some comments I heard during makeovers included:
1. Don't wear so much mascara on top of your fake lashes (if you wear them) because it could come across "tarantula-like" on the big screen.
2. Steer clear of bright fuchsia lipstick because the video board likes to change that color to a dark purple, which is only acceptable when you are under the age of six, drinking grape Kool-Aid in the summer.
3. Lean toward matte eye shadows because too much shimmer can look like glitter when amplified on 9,000 square feet.
4. Get glammed up but avoid bright blue eye shadow, blood red lips and glitter.
5. Also, don't wear your hair up; wear it down and pretty. I had to practice my solo with my hair down because it definitely feels weird when you're not accustomed to it.
During training camp, I wore TIGI's Glamma Liquid Foundation in "Bisque," sealed with the Glamma Powder in "Entice" because that combination provides jumbo-tron-proof-pore coverage! I also added plenty of color under my cheekbones with the TIGI Player Blush in "Cheeky." This blush is also matte and matches my overall look.
For the eyes, I used the Big Fat Fun eyeliner in Black because it doesn't budge and the Cyberoptics eyeshadows in taupe and brown. I like to keep my lips neutral because the focus and attention is on my eyes. I used the Girls Just Want It lipstick in "Trust" because it's a deep nude with a hint of pink.
It was fun getting dolled up for auditions. Now, it's on to training camp!
Audition scrutiny has moved to the big screen!
During the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader tryouts that took place at Cowboys Stadium, the huge HD video board amplified everything from pores to lipstick to huge false lashes. Some comments I heard during makeovers included:
1. Don't wear so much mascara on top of your fake lashes (if you wear them) because it could come across "tarantula-like" on the big screen.
2. Steer clear of bright fuchsia lipstick because the video board likes to change that color to a dark purple, which is only acceptable when you are under the age of six, drinking grape Kool-Aid in the summer.
3. Lean toward matte eye shadows because too much shimmer can look like glitter when amplified on 9,000 square feet.
4. Get glammed up but avoid bright blue eye shadow, blood red lips and glitter.
5. Also, don't wear your hair up; wear it down and pretty. I had to practice my solo with my hair down because it definitely feels weird when you're not accustomed to it.
During training camp, I wore TIGI's Glamma Liquid Foundation in "Bisque," sealed with the Glamma Powder in "Entice" because that combination provides jumbo-tron-proof-pore coverage! I also added plenty of color under my cheekbones with the TIGI Player Blush in "Cheeky." This blush is also matte and matches my overall look.
For the eyes, I used the Big Fat Fun eyeliner in Black because it doesn't budge and the Cyberoptics eyeshadows in taupe and brown. I like to keep my lips neutral because the focus and attention is on my eyes. I used the Girls Just Want It lipstick in "Trust" because it's a deep nude with a hint of pink.
It was fun getting dolled up for auditions. Now, it's on to training camp!
Beauty Tip Of The Week
Here's our DCC Weekly Beauty Tip:
Olive oil hair remedy. We are pretty tough on our hair, and occasionally, it needs a break! About once a month, I take a spray bottle filled with olive oil and spray my hair down from root to tip. I then put it in a bun and sleep with the olive oil in my hair. The olive oil moisturizes my hair and keeps it from getting dry and brittle.
Check back next week for another beauty tip!
Health Tip Of The Week
Here's our DCC Weekly Beauty Tip:
Be a smart shopper at the grocery store. When you go to the grocery store, do your best to stay out of the middle isles. All the best foods for your body are found along the outside, like fruits, vegetables and proteins.
Check back next week for another health tip!Welcome!
Hey everyone! Welcome to, "Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders" blog! I'm so glad you stopped
and checked us out! My blog is here for you to refer back to everyday for the
latest, factual news and photos on the directors and cheerleaders! Since I'm renovating my blog at the moment, the "design"
isn't exactly finished. I will be adding more tabs and more features to the
blog! If you have any questions or concerns you are more than welcome to email
me. My email and contact information can be found in the "Contact Tab" which is
soon to come. I hope you enjoy the blog! Keep your eyes peeled for cool stuff
coming in the future! Share the blog with all your friends and fellow family
members if you would like.
ENJOY! <3
Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders Blog
ENJOY! <3
Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders Blog
The 2011-2012 Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders Squad |
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)