If only you knew what it takes for me to say that, and to mean it.
As far back as I can remember being “different”, I remember hating pictures being taken of me.
Hiding behind my peanut, not looking at camera.
Always being the “fat friend” I have learned how to be the first one to take the pictures of everyone else, and if I was ever dragged in front of the camera, I know how to hide behind someone else, push my rear out, arch my back, lean forward, shoulders back, chin up, and “smile”. And then take the camera back, and delete all the pictures of myself.
Floating Head.
Floating Head, a few years before.
Head still floating.
Hide behind a friend, with a fake smile.
Hide behind a hug.
A few weeks ago, still hiding-ish. (No floating head though… 20 years later, progress)
I have “such a great personality”, pretty eyes, cute dimples, great smile… … Or so I’ve been told.
Blah.. blah.. blah.. Compliment the “fat friend”…
It wasn’t until this weekend, that I saw “it”.
Over a year ago Danne did another impromptu photo shoot of me. This past weekend, as she was getting ready to launch her new website, she called me over to her computer to see a picture I had forgotten all about.
I just stood there for a moment. Looked at my friends, and said “I’m pretty.”*
Moving forward, and not hiding…
Julie
julieUNSCRIPTED 
I believe my exact words were, “You’re positively stunning!” To which your exact reply was, “Oh My God, I’m pretty!”
… your progress makes me smile
Julie,
What a precious blessing you are! Congratulations–keep moving forward!!!
Girl, and you are the amazing princess God made you to be…moving forward without looking behind!
Wow! She pulled out all those amazing eyes of yours! :P Love you!
Yeah… someone from “urban decay” did my makeup at the store, as a joke… it was bold.. :)
love this post.
i love you!
I know exactly how you feel Julie. I have been there all my life too.
You have always been a beautiful princess…
I almost posted one from your wedding and put “hide behind a bride”..
I am soooo glad that you finally “see” what we all see :-) xoxoxo
You are so BEYOND GORGEOUS and i loved reading this. Thank you for sharing your thoughts… i hope it continues ;)