4th of July and Bathing Suits

It's 4th of July weekend and everyone is going to BBQs, the beach, camp, etc... it's what we do. With that, many people are posting about having (or not having) their "bathing suit" body or their "beach" body. If you recall, my last blog I talked about being happy in my skin. While I am still working on that... I came across some awesome things this past week and wanted to share with you all - and they helped me put things into perspective for myself!

First is the infamous "bikini body" issue...this graphic puts it perfectly -- EVERYONE has a bikini body! Now, this is where people are going to be like - "ew, no that's not true. some girls shouldn't wear bikinis"... well you my friend are the problem. Who are you to say what someone can and cannot wear? Who are you to say what is and isn't attractive? Who says what is or isn't a "society approved bikini body" anyways? Just because you don't like it means it's wrong? They say that those who speak badly of others do it because they are not happy with themselves... 

Here's the solution to your issue with "big girls" wearing a bikini -- don't look. I wish I had the confidence to prance around in a two piece that some of these woman do. Or maybe if you can't help looking you should give that girl props. It's hard enough being a big girl in today's world. That girls has balls, big ones. Maybe you can even learn a little something about confidence from her. 

Oh, and the "society approved bikini bodies" -- let's just note that back when Marilyn Monroe ruled the sex appeal industry...women WANTED to gain weight for bikini season! Being a size 12 was the "norm" and sexy. So I'm bringing sexy back...ladies rock out with your bad selves and your size whatever bodies! 

Now don't get me wrong...everyone's body type is different and some people can't be a size 12 nor can some people be a size 2, and I'm not downing either end of the spectrum. I'm saying that everyone can have a bikini body -- it's just about being comfortable in your skin and NOT letting those around you bring your confidence down -- own your body and your bikinis (all women, all shapes, all sizes)!!

PS: Could you imagine having to have been the "skinny" girl in this bathing suit ad and people looking at you like "ew she's gross" -- oh wait.

On that note...I have 2 two piece bathing suits in my drawer, if you see me rocking one this summer, smile for me, it means I found my confidence. 

That's my rant this week...now I want EVERYONE to have a great holiday weekend and be safe. I will be enjoying the weekend with my love and the kids. We have lots planned: the parade with family, fireworks, spending time with friends on the lake, a graduation party, and whatever else comes our way! 

As always... remember what the 4th of July is really about -- our independence...and also to celebrate those that have fought for us and who continue to fight for us to have our freedom. Thank you. 

~beYOUtiful~

Melissa
7/3/15: 199lbs
(outta the 200's again...whoot whoot)