Coming home for college, I figured I would hear all about school and how I could have done better however that was a very short topic for the huge topic of my weight. While yes, I knew it was coming, I didn't think it would come so soon - the topic of my weight.

"Wow, you've chunked up."

"You are too young to have a pouch!"

"That's what you get for eating ice cream all those late nights."

Yes, I knew about the dreaded "Freshmen 15" going into college, and no, I did NOT gain it. While I am heavier than when I left for school, did you ever ask:

How much muscle I gained?

How about can I still wear all my clothes or did I have to get new clothes?

Or what about how many times did I work out or have practice while I was at school?

While none of the questions were asked, let me tell you. Going into preseason I had little muscle mass since I had only starting lifting weights that summer. Meaning all of my weight prior to going to school was actually mostly fat. Now after completing not just one but TWO college sports I think I gained some nice muscles. From lifting weights in season for both volleyball and lacrosse I toned and gained more muscle than all four years in high school. After joining Muv Fitness for the summer they informed me that I am now closer to 25 pounds being muscle. So by gaining all this 'weight' I not only fill out my clothes better, but I feel better in my clothes. While I might be heavier on the scale, I think a happier self-esteem is completely worth it. For practices it all depended on when we had games but I had practice every day. We were allowed and conditioned as many times that were needed to help us out perform and outlast the other teams. While yes, I am heavier on the scale, being a better teammate is completely worth it.

As my family and friends, I owe you because I couldn't have gotten this far without you. Your little comments push me forward to be a better me. You pushed me to pursue my dreams, and I ended up playing in college (which I never thought would happen) on an amazing team. Your comments hurt and have taught me that not only do I have to watch what I eat but that if I eat too much I am going to hear about it. I also know that every time you ask how the gym was, you just think I just went and stood around. Sorry to inform you but I pushed through the work out so that when preseason comes I can say I did my part for the team. You know my past and how hard I worked to get where I am, so stop tearing me down. Just for once tell me I did well.

Sincerely,

Your "Fat" Family Member