As we move into summer, long hikes, climbing trips and mountain bike rides become the focus of our free time. Exploring local and far away destinations gives us the opportunity to expand our horizons. The temperatures rise and we shed our layers. This year I am going to let my sun-kissed skin give way to a new, carefree confidence.

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This body has gotten me up to the top of full day climbs, through 3-month backpacking trips, and through every grueling workout you can think of. This body does not deserve to starve and it does not deserve harsh criticism, a criticism that is probably brought on more by my own head and the ideals of “what we are supposed to look like” than reality.

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This summer I vow to cherish and fuel myself as I see fit. I am definitely wearing a bikini and I wonder if, for once, I do not try to hide my stomach, what will happen? In this day and age we work hard for our physiques, but we hardly ever praise them.  I will not feel guilty about the cake I eat at my friends wedding, I won’t even justify it with the dignity of explaining that I eat nutritiously the rest of the time.

This is a summer for living, life is short and it would be a shame to be at war with the vessel that gets me through the day. This summer let’s all give ourselves a little break; as active, vibrant women we eat well, we are athletic and work hard. Spanx are painful and I think many will agree with me, that you are far sexier without bike shorts on under your dress.  Sure, I may not look like a Victoria’s Secret model, but I have no desire to be a model, so I will continue to pursue my favorite activities and give these thighs a little credit. You look like you love your life ladies and if we shed our body hang ups there will be so much more to put our minds toward.

Cheers to a summer devoted to enjoying life to its fullest!