Strollerderby

Except for a brief period of insanity between the ages of 16 and 20, I have never been overly concerned with how I look.  My body image has always been pretty secure.

Since having children though, I've let go of any and all need to purchase, put on or care about make-up or hair care products (mousse is now something we actually EAT at my house.) The freedom of not having to put on eyeliner or mess with a blow dryer is wonderful.

I've aso learned to WANT to excersise and eat right. Not because I want to fit into a smaller pair of jeans, but because it will keep me healthy and because it sets a good example for my chidren.

I'm more worried about setting good examples for my daughter than looking like a size zero.

I'm a very petite woman, so if I get over my suggested weight range (95-105 lbs) I'll look ill- proportionate.

In order to stay in that range, I have to eat healthy, work out, and dress appropriately for my age (21) and size (1)-

I still care about my apperance. I still like to dress up and wear make-up. But being a mother has given me so much confidence that I've found that my beauty comes from within rather than from make-up and fancy clothes.

I really hope that my daughter understands that being healthy, happy, and confident with herself is more important than keeping up appearances for the public.

Latia, Do you find that people automatically assume that you are starving yourself because you're petite?  I have friends that are naturally tiny....always have been.  They run into people all the time telling them that they are setting a bad example for other young women because they are so skinny.

I think it's just as big a bias as assuming someone that's overweight isn't taking care of themselves.

so far, no, i can't say tht being pregnant has done anything good for my body image... but all i can do is work on it i guess.

I know this is late, but Latia, I am just ike you size-wise.  I am 4'10 and weigh 95 pounds.

Viciousrumors, I've put up with comments about my size my entire adult life.  People intimating that I don't eat much is something that started about five years ago. I always assumed everyone got comments about their build or looks.  It wasn't until my husband was shocked one day at someone asking me how much I weighed that I realized this doesn't happen to most people on a daily basis.  I've gotten some cruel comments from other women about my size.  I was even recently told by a so-called friend that I would never be part of the club as I don't have fat thighs to complain about.  It was truly rude and I haven't spoken to her since that day.  

Okay new moms, are you ready to sweat? That was me doing my best aerobics instructor voice. But it's true, post-natal exercise can be helpful for all the reasons this nice personal trainer Tracey Mallett hits us with: Helps to reduce post-natal depression