What Do You See?

Yesterday I read Rachel's post and it really stopped me in my reading tracks. She so eloquently stated the frustration most women face with our bodies and the judgements we so sadly put on ourselves. We are our own worst enemy, calling ourselves names we would NEVER, EVER think to call a friend, despite the fact that WE ARE our best friend. And that's just sad, right?!?

Rachel did something so a m a z i n g with her post though. Instead of staying negative about what she views as 'her flaws', she chose to put a positive spin on the post and herself. And I can't help but applaud her immensely for it.

I pride myself on being an extremely optimistic person, but the one thing that I'm really negative about is myself, and my physical appearance. I'm the biggest cheerleader of my friends and family, but when it comes to myself, I'm really good at being nitpicky about everything. But today that stops.

What do I see, today in the mirror?!?!

I see a mix of my mother and father's best attributes. No one can doubt that I am, indeed a Brady, and I love hearing "You look so much like your parents".

I see big hazel green eyes that are smiling 90% of the day. Sometimes they're full of tears, but they are the eyes into my soul and I love them.

I see an athlete.

I see an able body, for which I am so thankful. I may not be the best athlete, but I can run, swim, play soccer and kickball, jump, stretch, climb stairs and much more, all without pain. Thank you body!

I see a physically strong woman. I am reaping the rewards of  heavy lifting and I see strong biceps and triceps, that can lift more weight than people imagine.

I also see strength of heart and character. Someone that stands up for what she believes in, even if it isn't the popular belief or thing to do.

I see a daughter of Christ.

I see the oldest sister of three, who sometimes thinks she's a mom. Even though I get annoyed sometimes, the well being of my sisters is of utmost importance to me. I will walk through fire or go to jail to keep them safe.

I see an emotional woman, who wears her heart on her sleeve.

I see freckles that are a testament to the many hours I've spent outside. Maybe the sun wasn't the best for my skin, but the memories of playing outside on long summer days are worth it.


I see a woman who will stand up for her closest, Tier 1 friends, no matter WHAT they've done. I'm fiercely loyal to my inner circle of friends and can be ruthless to those that try and harm them, in anyway.

I see someone who is striving to be more patient and loving, but also someone who just doesn't want to deal with BS anymore. Which to me, isn't a bad thing. Life's too short to be anything but happy.

I see a wife, who is learning about herself, her husband and marriage.

I see laugh lines around my eyes and my mouth and I'm very proud of them. They mean I've laughed more than I've cried and that's just fine with me.

I see a lady that is just trying to figure life out. Someone that's striving to be her best and someone who wants to make a positive difference in the world.

Ladies, take the time to go read Rachel's post and then go look at yourself in the mirror. Forget the ridiculous flaws you normally zero in on and take a closer look. Find the beauty within and see the amazing lady everyone else sees. I < 3 you, sweet friends!!!!!