A letter to my daughter

Libby,

We went shopping today.  You witnessed me try on clothes.  You witnessed me being unsure about this new body that I am living in.  You heard me fret over putting on four pounds.  I just sent you to bed, and I am filled with sadness that you watched me do all of these things today.

We live in a world that places a huge emphasis on the female bodies.  So much that right now since I do not fit the typical mold of a female body I struggle to find clothes.  I struggle to feel comfortable in my skin.  Give me time and understanding dear daughter as I want to set a better example for you.

I am so proud of my body.  It carried you for over nine months.  Each of those silvery lines across my stomach is a mark of beauty.  My arms held you.  My ears listened for each of your cries, your first laughs, words, and now the amazing ideas that you share.  My breasts fed you for fourteen months.  Those of some of the most wonderful and beautiful things the human body can do.

I want you to be proud of your body too.  Your strong muscles that pull you across the pool.  The brown dots that I have watch appear on you one by as you grow are marks of beauty.  Your infectious smile and sparking hazel eyes.   You are getting ready to enter years of your life where boys will notice you.  Be confident in who you are.  You do not have to be nearly naked in a bikini to get a boy to notice.  Be proud of your intelligence and use it.  God makes each of us perfect creatures.  You my daughter are perfect.

Know that as I change and you change that we are okay, perfect in our own ways.  Know that I made changes in my body for you, to be here for you.  My prayer for you is that you never have to make that choice.

My Libby girl, always know how much I love you.

Mama