Maybe it’s the red lipstick that I have always wanted to wear but never had the courage to.
Maybe it’s the encouraging of like-minded friends from all across the country.
Maybe it’s the glasses or the vintage clothes that I like to wear.
I am sure that it’s all of these things and none of these things; all at the same time.
One thing is for certain, in my 34 and a half years in this world I am finally accepting who I am and the beauty that was created in me. We don’t all have to fit into some cookie cutter mold to be beautiful. We are all beautiful in our own ways and when you feel that beauty way down in the depths of your heart. It radiates.
There once was a time when I hated to have my photo taken. I would put myself down and pick out each and every one of my flaws. I longed to look like other women, never like myself.
Then I had these girls and they changed me, especially as they have grown into beautiful young women. I never want them to doubt the beauty that they have deep down in their heart. I want them to be happy with who they are and confident in the choices that they make; whether it be to confidently rock the red lipstick, some vintage wears or an over sized pair of frames.
Now I smile confidently and happily know that I am the daughter of a King.
Now I challenge each one of you to be confident with who you are, even if you aren’t even sure who that is yet. I think of this quote by Albert Einstein and nod my head every single time I recite it.
Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish on its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.
Are you up for the challenge? Please let me know. I want to encourage you just as much as all of you have encouraged me.
Heather, thank you for this post. I have raffled between being comfortable in the mirror but when I see photos of me, then not so comfortable. I pick out the “flaws”.
But you are amazing. I love your style,glasses and red lips and you influenced me to wear dresses more often. XOXO and have an amazing 2012.
Heather, this post really resonate with me. Whether it be my appearance, or the life style choices I have made, I need to stop comparing myself with others and live my life God with joy.
Well, you are beautiful, and I'm glad you're sharing your pictures. And you're a wonderful person, too! We all struggle… I do all the time!
Happy New Year – all the best in 2012~ xoxo
I need a red lipstick, or maybe a deep glossy one. I've become disenchanted by my plain muted lip glosses. I adore this post, Happy New Year!
I super love the bottom right one!
And maybe…just maybe…I'll don some red lipstick at Blissdom. 
xoxo
Your beautiful and your style is flashy – love your personality.
I am trying to get on that page where I don't care and appreciate who I see – a lot of the same reason for my daughter to not have self doubt.
Bring on your challenge, I want to learn what you can teach.
You are beautiful. You inspire me. I just bought my first tube of red lipstick too. Here's to finding happiness in our own skin.
JUST SO YOU KNOW? your #fashiondiaries tag on instagram is what has taught me all i have learned about dressing myself in my new body. you always have the cutest outfits, the most gorgeous little headbands & accessories, and those red lips are awesome. thanks for that, i think i'll start rocking a red lip this year too
You are beautiful, inside and out – looking forward to meeting you at Blissdom