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Today I Dared to Wear a Bikini
Would they notice the stretch marks that trace over my thighs? Those distinct white lines, varying in size, tell the story of my body’s journey from a high school athlete to a casual gym-goer. What about the cellulite that resides between my thighs, just waiting to peek out from my bikini bottom?
Would they spot my not-so-perfectly toned belly? The somewhat defined upper abs, paired with a C-section scar and muscle repair? Would they judge the body of a mother who experienced the miracle of life through surgery?
How about my pale skin, dotted with freckles from sun exposure after months of hiding? Would my friends be quick to suggest sunblock and cover-ups in the comments?
And what of my seven tattoos? Would they look at my inked ribs and back with disapproval, thinking those mark me as a poor role model?
When I glance in the mirror, do I see the insecure woman I sometimes am? The mother of two who once easily ran a six-minute mile? Or the fierce mama bear ready to protect her cubs? Would they notice my confidence—a woman who embraces every inch of her skin, including her stretch marks, scars, and tattoos?
Today, I wore a bikini at the beach and shared a picture on social media. To my surprise, no one commented on my stretch marks or cellulite, nor did they mention my tattoos or sunburn. Instead, they focused on the smiles of my children and the pure joy radiating from our family photos under the Florida sun. That fills me with pride.
I am proud of the family I’ve created and, more importantly, of my body. It has never been more beautiful to me. This body has nurtured and supported life. It has endured nearly 30 years of sports, scars, and challenges. It has bounced back from childbirth and surgeries, sleepless nights, and the demands of raising toddlers. I’m no tiger, but I’ve certainly earned every stripe and stretch mark.
This journey has shown me that there is nothing more beautiful than embracing who I am. If you’re interested in exploring more about pregnancy and home insemination, you can check out this excellent resource from the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development here. And for those curious about at-home insemination, you can learn more from this guide.
In the end, I celebrate my journey and the unique beauty of my body.