Trying to Get Skinner, Prettier, Better? STOP! Read this!

I went on a cruise with my best friend in 2006. To tell you the truth, I wasn't unhappy. I was newly engaged and my friend and I had a great time in the Caribbean. We went swimming, went to shows, and got to dress up for dinner throughout the week. I had a black dress I was SO excited to wear (my first ever "little black dress").

I found the picture from the cruise the other day (first picture here) and wow - I guess I had some extra weight, but my now-husband didn't care or notice. He thought I was beautiful the way I was, and I had so much fun on the cruise and just being me, I didn't even notice! Sure, I was a little uncomfortable, but I genuinely had a great time and I didn't care that I wasn't a size 6!

Be REAL. Be YOU!

Last night, I had such a great night with my sister, who has become so close to me over the years. We got all dressed up for an awards banquet at her work. We laughed together, talked a lot, and spent uninterrupted time together talking about everything we could think of. We even took some photos.

Guess what? I'm happy in both pictures above. I weigh less now, but even more important than my physical appearance, is my growth as a person. The number on the scale is just a thing. If we are terrible people, or

self-centered, or selfish, and gorgeous on the outside, what's the point? God loves us the way we are, however we look! Yes, we can work towards being HEALTHIER, but let's not forget the fact that what matters most is what is on the inside. Let's work on getting healthier and growing from the inside out!

1 Peter 3:3-4- "And let not your adornment be merely external-- braiding the hair, and wearing gold jewelry, or putting on dresses; but let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in the sight of God."

If you are in the middle of a fitness journey, or a journey to better your health, I am excited for you and even hope to help you in that. But above all else, please remember: you are beautiful the way you are too! Choose happiness and to be grateful for what you have, wherever you are at and things will only get better!