All the above women weigh the same - about 169 pounds - the current world average.

Dear Dawn,

The average weight of women in the US is 169 pounds and average size is 16.

Worldwide, the weight and size of both men and women is increasing.

Obviously, fat distribution varies between men and women, but to varying degrees. We all can recall in high school some girls (even Straight girls) being mistaken for boys, although boys in high school were rarely mistaken for girls. Hormones that control fat distribution kick in between age 12 to 17.

Of course, as we age, the fat distribution can change radically for some, such as myself, due to adrenal burnout.

Then, the dropping off of hormones during the senior years make many seniors androgynous. Knew a heavy butch Lesbian who, at 75 years old, if you threw a suit on her, could pass for a man.

The major shapes of adult women are proportionate, pear, apple and box. Am box shaped myself. Look nothing like my younger years (I am 61, almost 62).

How do I deal with this? Do the best I can to eat a healthy diet, exercise (walking) as much as I can, although it is very hard for me to lose weight, and it gets harder the older I get.

How do I cope with this? Accepting others of all sizes and shapes, and celebrating the diversity of the human form. Finding the best cut and color of clothing that flatters my body shape and personality.

Dawn, you are a beautiful person, both inside and out, and I view you as an athletic, but feminine woman.

Your friend,

Monica