I know kids change a lot in their 20s, but this one really caught me off guard.
My son is 25 and doing great. He’s got a solid job in his field, just moved out with a good friend from high school, and seems happy. Since moving out, he’s been working out a ton (5–6 days a week, lifting heavy) and eating a lot. He says he’s “bulking” before leaning out.
He’s always been lean and athletic, but now he’s built like a linebacker. The last time he was home I found out he’s 6’1” and about 225 lbs. He still dresses well, takes care of himself, and it’s not like he’s let himself go. It’s just a lot more mass than I’m used to.
I think part of my reaction is that I’m so used to seeing him as my lean, wiry kid. It’s a big mental adjustment to see him looking like a pro football player. I’ve made a few comments to him about it, but he just laughs and says he’s fine. My husband thinks I’m overreacting and actually says it’s impressive, so I’m the odd one out here.
It’s not that I think he’s unhealthy, it’s more that I’m surprised at how much he’s changed in such a short time. Has anyone else been caught off guard by their adult kids’ appearance changing, especially when it’s not related to anything bad, just… different? How did you get used to it?