Tinkle, Tinkle, Little Star

Plus the Menu for the Week of February 10th-14th

Tinkle, Tinkle, Little Star

Actually, let’s make that a big gold star—one I’m giving myself for finally addressing an issue that’s been disrupting my life since high school. Back then, it was a minor inconvenience. But over the years, it’s become a much bigger problem.

I really debated whether to put this out there—it’s personal! But I always come back to my philosophy: if sharing my experience helps other women, then it’s worth being vulnerable.

The embarrassing issue? Urine leakage (a.k.a. incontinence).

Rather than diving into the medical details of incontinence, I’ll share my journey—how it’s affected me, what I’ve tried, and the steps I’m taking now.

I also recorded a podcast episode about this on Love You More podcast, so if you’d rather hear me talk about it, you can catch it there on Episode 54: No Shame, Just Science: Talking Bodies, Blushing Optional

My First Memory of Incontinence

I was probably in third grade, a gymnast at practice, doing my thing on the balance beam. I must have been holding it too long because suddenly, I needed to go—urgently. I ran for the restroom, dribbling pee down my leotard the whole way. The white, chalk-covered floor? Now marked with a trail of my accident.

When I finally reached the bathroom, I froze—wet, humiliated, and hoping no one had seen. But Bianca—my most envied peer with her perfect tight braid, while I rocked a tight perm—announced it to everyone.

“Coach Charles, something is on the floor!” she said loudly.

To my absolute horror, Coach Charles got down on his hands and knees to inspect the scene. It was like a crime investigation, and I was the culprit. His detective work identified the unknown substance, and he made the whole team stop to ask who did it.

I, of course, said nothing. And to this day, much like Inside Out 2, this remains one of my core memories.

Photo 1: Doing my best event, the unveven bars, while Coach Charles watches over.

Photo 2: I thought you deserved a close up.

When It Became a Bigger Problem

In high school, I had accidents doing back handsprings on the basketball court. But honestly—who wouldn’t?!

Things got significantly worse after having three babies.