I'm proud to represent the average woman.

My focus has always been on talent over looks. This theme of people putting an emphasis on looks first has been a constant reminder throughout my life that most people don’t see things in the same way that I do.

It can be a real struggle to accept that sometimes appearance can be more important than talent or intelligence.

No matter how big the glam squad, or how dramatic the dress, sometimes things just don’t work out.

I'm really not sure what people think or expect me to be, but I am surprised when people say, 'You're not supposed to be like that ' I'm not exactly sure what 'that' is, so I choose to take it as a compliment.

I try to do everything to say, 'OK, will my mother like this? Will she be pleased? Will she be proud of that? How do I know she's happy and she's smiling down at me from heaven?' And that's what I try to go by and walk by.

You have to want weight-loss success so badly that no mountain, river, or ocean could keep you from reaching your goals. If you have that drive, passion, and commitment, there is no way you won’t get there.