It was probably right after I made my comeback - after retiring post-2008 Olympics - when I finally felt more at ease with my body. Being away from the sport helped put things in perspective.

It takes a lot of hard work to achieve your dreams, but nothing in life is easy. If it's something you really want, go after it!

When I was trying out for my first Olympics at 16, my family and coaches tried to regulate what I ate. But the stricter they got, the more I rebelled.

I try not to deprive myself of anything. I don't do the low-carb thing or anything like that.

From what my friends tell me, apparently some guys can be pretty intimidated by me when they find out what I do. I find it funny because I try to be modest and I don't like to talk about gymnastics unless I am asked about it. But my roommates always take on my bragging rights and tell my life story to the guys we meet, which leaves me blushing.

And I want a gold medal more than anything. I just want a gold medal, so that's been pushing me forward.

I really want to go back to school and finish up my sociology degree.