In my job I call my “vocation”, I get to meet not only individuals interested in achieving a new level of health, wellness and fitness, I get to know them, their lives, their passions and what drives them. Many cross the divide from wanting to “lose 10 pounds” (the most common reason they seek my help) to beginning to live a life filled with little habits that contribute to their long term health - and yes, they lose the 10 pounds and sometimes even more.Jennifer Poersch and I met partially because our children’s school, partially because we belong to the same church and because we have a load of mutual friends. What started as a new way to get fit and strong has turned into a friendship I am psyched is just the beginning.Jennifer has a network of very good friends; she gives her time generously to the Carpenter’s Shelter and may be one of the most caring and thoughtful people in my life. She shares her love and commitment for her two lovely daughters with her also-amazing husband J.B.When you meet Jennifer, you can tell she has a way to engage in a conversation that is intentional which I’m sure is why she has a large network of good friends. She cares. She asks questions and waits for the answer (unlike so many of our conversations). 

 Jennifer is fully committed  to the The Carpenter’s Shelter and serves on the Board of Directors and is the Development Chair for the Board as well. She also serves on the development committee for the New Heights campaign, the designated fund to raise for the new shelter that is currently being built. She believes the organization is giving us a huge opportunity for Alexandria to eradicate homelessness in our community.Jennifer’s fitness program is defined by her ability to see that the journey is so much more rewarding than the actual result. When we can accept that what we will learn along the way may even change the ultimate goal, we have reached a new fitness, wellness and acceptance that real change takes time.I look forward to sharing more updates on Jennifer in the new year to showcase her journey and how a renewed perspective on total health, wellness and fitness has made her stronger than ever!  

ABOUT YOU

 How do you spend your time? I love making family dinner and sitting around the table talking about what everyone in the family is up to.  It is a great time to reflect and catch up.Neighborhood: Jefferson ParkHow long have you lived in Alexandria: I moved to the DC area in 1999 but landed in Alexandria in 2001What is your hometown? Springfield, MOWhat brought you to Alexandria? Politics brought me to DC and my husband brought me to AlexandriaWhat would surprise people about you? I was the mascot (Wildcat) for my college football teamYou’re a superhero: what’s your superpower? Multitasking!Favorite cocktail: Petron Silver with club soda and lots of lime!Last book read or movie seen: Southernmost by Silas HouseGuilty Pleasure: Meeting girlfriends for a glass of winePhrase you overuse: Seriously?Facebook or Instagram? Facebook, my daughter deleted my Instagram account a couple of years ago and I haven’t gotten around to re-downloading itLatest binge-watch: QueenBucket list travel destination: AfricaIf you only could have one for the rest of your life: wine or coffee? Coffee, preferably from Swings   

FASHION

 Define your style in three words or less: Tailored with a flairThe go-to piece in your wardrobe: Tall black Steve Madden bootsFavorite trend ever: Ripped white jeansFavorite current trend: Stylish workout attireBeauty product you can’t live without: Bobbi Brown tinted moisturizerFavorite fragrance: Bliss lemon sage body butterHeels or flats? Flats  

HOME

 Favorite room in your home: Breakfast nookAntiques, modern, or a mix? MixLast item bought for your home:  Fun custom-made pillows in a variety of patternsNext planned purchase: New basement furnitureFavorite way to entertain: Having friends over for dinnerClutter-free or well-lived in? I’d like to be clutter free, but it is a constant struggle!Wallpaper -- yes, totally modern or no, so dated: I like wallpaper in small rooms like the office and powder room   

FITNESS

 Your go-to work-out: I like variety but I’m really into Barre3 right now. Meredith and her team are awesome and make you work muscles you don’t even know you have.Most fun way to exercise: One-on-one or small group training with Adrien Cotton---she is an inspiration!Group exercise or solo: Group, I work harder when someone else is pushing meFitness goal: Be as strong and healthy as I can beHaven’t yet, but might be willing to try with coaching / encouragement: The dreaded pullup---it really intimidates meProudest fitness achievement: Running a marathon 

Jennifer is wearing Smythe Blazer, Good American Jeans, and Tara Jarmon Top available at TSALT, shoes available at The Shoe Hive.

ALEXANDRIA

 Favorite spot in Alexandria: My back patioLast purchase in Alexandria: Probably coffee at Swings, I just love that placeBest coffee / happy hour / date night spot: Grape + Bean for happy hour and Brabo Tasting Room for a last-minute date nightFavorite charity: There are a lot of great local charities, but I recently joined the board of the Carpenter's Shelter and love the work we are doing here in AlexandriaFavorite annual Alexandria event: Carpenter's Cook-off