For as long as I can remember, July 4 has been my favorite holiday! Something about the warm sunshine, being with family and friends, BBQ, time on the water, and fireworks just makes me happy!
For many years, I would wake early and participate in the local “fun run”. Usually people were dressed in fun costumes of red, white, and blue. Everyone smiling and excited to get their run in so they could feel good about the BBQ and cocktails later in the day!
And what about enjoying time on the water? That is my favorite! But it wasn’t always…. Donning a swimsuit when you don’t even want to be seen without leggings and a long shirt is nothing less than terrifying! I remember seeing all of my cute friends in bikinis and shorts. All tan or trying to get tan. And the only time I would take off my cover-up was to get into the water. Like jump in deep and do it fast! Then quickly get out and wrap in a towel.
It took some time, but once I lost the weight, and adjusted my thinking about my body, I felt amazing! Independence Day became fun again! I can wear my bikini with confidence and enjoy the water with my kiddos!
Now this doesn’t mean my body is perfect. In my practice of 80/20 Life in Balance, I have also learned that I worry more about what I look like than anyone around me! My kiddos just wanted mom to play with them. My partner loves my body. And in order to really enjoy the moment, I need to let some stuff go!
I eat well, exercise, take care of myself and my family. And this 4th of July, I am going to splash around in the water, enjoy some BBQ, have a cocktail or 2, and watch some amazing fireworks light up the sky!
Have a happy, safe, fun July 4th!
In Good Health
Aly