If you read my site or the Beauty and Style Section of Lifetime Moms on a regular basis, you might know a few things about me – like my unfailing love for the Tory Burch Reva and David Yurman jewelry. You know these things because it’s what I usually write about here on this site, and because it’s my job. So, it’s pretty cool that I’m able to be involved with something a little different, starting today, as a mentor and cheerleader for my new friend Crystal who is participating in the SC Johnson Clean Start Challenge.

Crystal is one of four finalists aiming to make a “clean start” in her life. She is a striking young woman and a new mom who wants to learn how to cook and finally be able to get out of those mommy jeans! It seems that Crystal was fortunate enough to marry a man who cooks for her – and all I can say is that if I ever meet her in person I will be giving her all sorts of high-fives! She is also a former teacher and a Louisiana transplant – we have all sorts of things in common! She will be posting weekly progress videos on MyLifetime.com so that you can follow along, but she’s also trying to win your votes! The winner of the SC Johnson Clean Start Challenge will receive $10,000!

We’ve talked about things that you know about me, but what you likely don’t know is that this challenge, and Crystal’s ideas about a clean start especially, are near and dear to my heart. After I had my daughter, Audrey Grace, I really struggled to lose the baby weight. The first bit came off fast, but I lost the last 25 pounds through a whole heck of a lot of determination and hard work. This New Orleans native LOVES to eat! So, Crystal’s desire to feel confident in her hot mom-ness (because she is already beautiful, but it’s all about confidence, right?) is one that I can truly relate to. I’ll be chatting with Crystal throughout the next three months, sharing motivation, tips for cooking healthy meals, and tricks on how she can achieve her goal. I hope that she can lean on me for ideas and support – and of course if you have any ideas or suggestions for her, you can always leave them here in the comments!

So you, my friends? I’ve just signed you up for Team Crystal! Welcome on board! Don’t worry, to sweeten the pot, there will be 3 opportunities for you to vote for Crystal (or your favorite finalist, but c’mon, we already know who we’re voting for, right?) and be entered to win $1,000 and a SCJ gift basket that is filled with some very cool products.

So, as they say at the races: on your marks, get set…Go Crystal!