Keepin' it real

Earlier this afternoon I was getting ready for a party. I put on my party dress, and it was snug. I haven't bought any new clothes recently because I am hoping to be able to fit into my clothing that I wore before I became pregnant with AJ. So I put on an old dress and I stood in front of the mirror and I didn't like what I saw.

I looked at how my abdomen pooched out beneath the waistband. I grabbed a hold of a full handful of flesh. I looked at how my once trim arms look bigger. I looked at my face and thought of how it looks fuller now. I stood there and I quietly critiqued myself.

As I was doing this Maddie was standing at my feet. She was playing with my skirt and she said something quietly. She said it again, then again, and then I finally heard her.

She said "Mama. Pretty."

Makes you realize you're beautiful just the way you are, especially in the eyes of those that love you the most.

If only you knew how important it is to hear those words, my baby girl. I love you so much and you make me feel like the most beautiful Mama in all the universe. I love you to pieces!!!!!