“You know what babe,” I started to say confidently. “If I keep working hard and get really fit, I am going to wear a two piece bathing suit again! And I don’t care about having stretch marks!”
“Good for you, babe!” Justin said back with a big smile. “You rock that bikini.”
We had this conversation a few weeks ago. And just today, I found myself packing for our day trip back home. We will be celebrating my sister’s high school gradation by eating, drinking, and swimming.
As I put my one piece swimsuit into the bag, I felt the temptation to try on my two piece swimsuit. My bikini from 3 years ago.
I’ve lost nearly 20% of my body weight over the past 9 months (or roughly 58 lbs)!
And sure enough, my swimsuit fit! This makes sense because I actually weigh less than when I first got pregnant. But somehow, I was still shocked.
I have a long way to go in my weight loss journey, but I’ll tell you one thing.
Those mommy marks are proof of my body’s strength.
They are proof that my body could grow a small, fascinating, and beautiful tiny human.
I am proud of my body and everything that I have done.
I will never be ashamed of those marks.
I will never let those marks be associated with sadness and shame.
For those marks are proof that I am a mom.
And that’s the best gift in the world.
Don’t let marks, scars, and bumps stop you from sharing your beauty and heart with the world. I promise you care more than other people do.
Go on and show the world that you’re proud of your body.
Your strength.
Your heart.
Your world.
I’m not sure if I’ll wear this swimsuit tomorrow, but it’s definitely in my bag.
Much love,
Ashley
Ashley Sieb 