I gained 13 pounds over the Christmas break.
In just fourteen days, my weight shifted from 142 pounds to 155.
On a 5′4″ frame, that’s a noticeable change in a short amount of time.
Noticeable to you? Maybe—but probably not.
Recognizable to me? Absolutely.
—Nicole Merritt of Jthreenme
Some of it was likely water weight, I’m sure. But what I gained over the holidays went far beyond numbers on a scale, and the most meaningful part of that gain didn’t just benefit me—it benefited my spouse and my kids, too.
This extended break, paired with a self-inflicted (and enthusiastically encouraged by my family) lackadaisical, go-with-the-eating-flow attitude, opened my eyes in an unexpected way. It revealed the surprisingly heavy emotional burden I’ve allowed my physical weight to place on my happiness—and how unnecessary and absurd that burden really is.
So no, I’m not going to fixate on the pounds I gained. Instead, I’m choosing to focus on what else I collected during this time: perspective, appreciation, peace, growth, deeper connection, patience, understanding, love, and gratitude.
Those are the gains that truly deserve recognition. They reflect real mental and emotional growth for someone like me—a woman in her thirties who has spent far too long being appearance-focused, self-conscious, and quietly seeking approval.
I may have returned home a little heavier, but I can honestly say I feel lighter.
Yes, I gained pounds—but I let go of the disdain I once attached to them.
I didn’t lose weight, but I did lose the misguided belief that I needed to.
And while I’m not suggesting that fun requires an eating-and-drinking frenzy, I am saying this: if you do indulge, you don’t owe anyone—yourself included—a single ounce of guilt.
My weight is up.
That part is true.
But so are my spirits.
And that truth matters far more.doubt
