Like a lot of people, I was an athlete growing up. Softball, track (sprinting), and volleyball. I started lifting when I was 16 but really started pushing after I graduated high school only to be interrupted by an unexpected pregnancy. I had my kid in 2004 and got back into weight lifting at the end of 2005. I did really well until February of 2010 when I suffered a back injury. It has been a roller coaster since and my only saving grace has been the fact that I continue to play high level, competitive volleyball.

It's the only quiet time I have in my chaotic life. It's the only time I can control something in my life since my life seems to consist of things I cannot control. Weight lifting and playing volleyball are the only times I feel any peace and control.