There is so much I want to say about the past few weeks, but I’m having trouble articulating how much this faire season has meant to me.

Yesterday, I was pulled up on stage with the other merch guys, and presented with a thank you gift from the Boggards and Merry Wives—a gorgeous wooden tankard that I will treasure. As soon as I went back to my table, the tears came and just wouldn’t let up. Being with them makes me so furiously happy. They found me right before I turned 18. They’ve seen me go through angsty hell, they were there when I met Jason, and they’re seeing me off on my latest adventure. They showed me love and kindness when I didn’t think I deserved either. They are my family, and I love them dearly.

Highlights of the season:

* I sang. I sang a whole lot, and I tried not to be scared. It’s the only thing that makes me almost as happy as dancing does, and it was such a relief to be told that I’m not terrible.

* I made a bunch of new friends! I only camped on site once, but hanging out with the Dread Crew was insanely fun. They’re all nuts, but I’m glad they’re in my life. Got to swing dance a bit that evening, too!

* Jack and I squealed over the baby goats and PIG ON A LEASH! Having a petting zoo next to your stage kind of rules.

* Got a couple things written into the Boggard’s “Casey’s balls are huge” riff. “Millennium Ball-con” and “Battlestar “Ball-actica” were all mine. Oh yeah, I’m a classy broad. 

* Dancing with little miss Piper during the 5 o’clock shows was the best way to end my day.

* I kinda rocked a bikini and was (mostly) not terrified, then taught Phil and Steven how to play MASH.

I have to say…of all the ways I could leave faire behind, this was the best way to do it. Thank you guys so much.

Reasons to Work Out (That Have Nothing to Do With My Weight)

1. I love surprising people with how strong I am.

2. It keeps my depression in check.

3. It gives me more power when I sing.

4. More endurance = better sex. (You’re welcome, Jason.)

5. I’m genetically predisposed to cancer, I’ve been exposed to a lot of second-hand smoke, and my late celiac diagnosis increases my risk. I’m not giving that motherfucking disease another advantage by making crappy choices.

Reasons to Work Out (That Are Rooted in Sheer Vanity)

1. My backside gets a lot of compliments. This is enjoyable to me.

2. If I develop the habit now, it will be easier for me to stay at a healthy weight when I’m pregnant, as well as lose the weight after I give birth.

3. I don’t want to deal with the stigma of being a “fat and lazy American” while I’m living in Europe.

4. I’ll feel better about the possibility of wearing a bodysuit for some Catwoman cosplay.

5. My mother is in better shape than I am, and now it’s a competition. But she doesn’t know that.