Tuesday's Tribute - To being beautiful, dammit.

In my recent quest to become more healthy, Summer's recent Blogversations video about a lady named Rachel Caplin and her book entitled, "I'm Beautiful, Dammit!" could not have come at a more perfect time.

I've already talked about my struggle with weight before having Kaylee and how I successfully changed my habits, became more active, and started eating healthier. I used the Weight Watchers method, only weighed myself once per week, as the program recommends for weigh ins, and I learned to have a totally different way of thinking about food.

I could enjoy food that wasn't made just of sugar and carbs. I could be full, satisfied, and healthy. I could have fun at the gym. I could feel good about myself, and I could go about it in a healthy way.

Then I had a baby.

Nothing on my body is the same or will ever be the same. Ever. Again. It's been a huge struggle for me.

I get sad that I no longer have the body I used to have.

Really, though - it's the same body, it's just been through a considerable amount of wear and tear. Unfortunately, so has my mind. I can deal with my body. I can buy clothes that fit. I can go to the gym. I can eat healthy food and smart portions, but what in tarnation can I do to get my mind to shift gears?

What can I do to start realizing that I am fine just the way I am? That my body is not ugly. That I should quit criticizing myself for not being an ideal size or shape.

For starters, I'm joining Summer in getting rid of the scale. It's moving to the garage where I no longer have to stare at it every morning. The garage floor is cold and has bits of gravel brought in by the car tires. And bugs. I hate bugs. So, I won't be going out to the garage to weigh myself.

Next, I've ordered myself this book.


















I've recently discovered Rachel Caplin's blog "Oh my God, I'm a Mom" as well as her newest blog, "I'm Beatiful, Dammit," and I am just waiting for the delivery guy to knock on my door so I can crack the book open and dive right in. I know that reading a book won't change anything overnight, but Rachel really has a way with words, and she really makes me think. She helps me see things in a realistic perspective, and I think a lot of what she has to say will help me jumpstart my mind to thinking in a way that is not so harsh.

So this week, my Tuesday's Tribute is to Rachel, her book and her blogs. Please go check her out. You will love her honesty (hello - she talks about pooping on the delivery table without any shame), her humor, and her insightful thoughts about surving motherhood.

Unless you think you are a perfect mother who never struggles and never screws up, I know you'll be able to relate to so much of what she has to say. Here's how you can check out what Rachel has to say...

Click here to check out Rachel's book.

Click here to read Rachel's blog, "Oh my God I'm a Mom."

Click here to read her other blog, "I'm Beautiful, Dammit."

A Jay and Deb Production.