I wanted to share some body positive successes I have had in the last week. I don’t always have “good body image days” (said in the same spirit as “good hair days”). My body positive attitude development has been an exercise in patience, just like my strength development.  But I had two experiences last week that showed me that I am making progress in this area, even if every day is not great.

Last week, my mother sent me some photos that she took when she came to visit us. This picture in particular, struck me.

One year ago, whenever I saw full body pictures of myself, I usually felt deeply ashamed. I probably would have deleted it. I remember seeing pictures from a family photo shoot taken this time last year, and I felt ashamed of the way my body looked.

Last week, when I saw that picture, I thought, “damn, look at those weightlifter traps!!!” I posted it on my Facebook timeline and in several groups, with this caption:

I love this picture. Savta took this picture when we went blueberry picking last week. One year ago I would have hated this picture and never shared it. Now, I see weightlifters traps, strong legs, and myself walking tall and confident, enjoying a beautiful morning with my son.

I’ll take it.