Self-Indulgence

I wanted to publish this post for my birthday last week, but my 16 year old kitty, Samantha got sick and I shelved the post for the moment.  While she is now feeling better, we are still 300 more road miles and one diagnostic procedure away from knowing the whole story. 

Despite the fact that this is my blog, I try to keep things in check and avoid narcissism .  Well, today I caved.  As it was my birthday last week, I decided to write a post that engages in some Self-Indulgence.    

Is it self-indulgent that I bought a new dress and wanted to share the ensemble with you?
No!
Well, maybe. 

Is it self-indulgent that I'm splashing photos of myself in said new dress over the internet? 
No!
Well, perhaps. 

Is it self-indulgent that I'm wearing false eyelashes and blue glitter eyeliner?

Definitely.

So, here's the story behind this post.  I'll be honest: I haven't been motivated to shift the weight that I gained on my trip over the holidays (post will be up by Easter, promise!) My pants are tight and I'm not comfortable.  As someone who has lost a lot of weight, there is always a fear inside me that one day I could gain it all back.  When I've gained any weight I think:  "Perhaps this is the beginning of a slippery slope?"

Here is why this post is really self-indulgent.  It's because today, I'm practicing Self-Acceptance.  And for me, that is self-indulgent.  I'm posting photos of myself even though I'm not at my 'happy weight.'  I am accepting myself right now.  Today.  Or at least I'm trying.

Also, while, leggings and flouncy dresses are my current BFFs,  I'm giving myself the gift of Patience.  And that, too, is self-indulgent for me.  I'm not trying to stress about the weight gain too much, despite the fact that it does, in fact, bother me.

So here it is: indulge me the self indulgence...

The Dress:

I scored this O'Neill dress at Becker Surf Shop in Malibu for $20 on sale.  No doubt it is intended for a teenage (I am not) surfer girl (I am not) who is fond of big, roomy dresses (I am).

It even has pockets:  perfect for a phone, some zinc oxide and the keys to your jeep.

The tank top:

No idea where I got it:  I have a slight tank top obsession and own one in nearly every color.  I feel naked unless I wear one alone, doubled up, under t-shirts, or under very low-cut surfergirl dresses.

The tights:

I found these at Tesco Superstore near London's Heathrow airport for £1,99.  It's just like a SuperTarget where you can buy your knickers and your Snickers all in one trip. Love.

The Boots:

Ah, the boots...

I realize that this dress begs for flip flops or if it's below 70F, some UGG boots.  But when I bought this dress, it was raining and I am the last person on the planet without UGG boots.  

Therefore, I went with what I the next obvious choice:  Cowboy boots.  But these are no ordinary cowboy boots.  These boots are older than many of my readers. I bought them brand new when I was 15 years old at (now kaput) Howard & Phil's Western Store in the Glendale Galleria.  In 6 months I may look at this outfit and say "What was I thinking?"  Plus, I have no idea if western boots are even popular right now.  But, I do know that I wear these boots every chance I get.

These photos were taken in Palm Springs, California with Mount San Jacinto in the background.

And with the stress of last week, one thing is certain: Next week, I'm booking a much-needed, truly self-indulgent massage.

Speaking of self-affirming messages, check out this Operation Beautiful Post (a couple of my favorite fuzzy people are pictured). And if you haven't yet bought your copy of the book Operation Beautiful, I highly recommend that you do.  That is not because my Dad and I are featured, but because it is a very moving book with wonderful messages.

Edited to add:  SAMANTHA is GREAT!  We got the diagnosis of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (aren't you glad I shared?) rather than the more ominous Intestinal Lymphoma aka cancer.  Thank GAWWWWWD and thank you all for your sweet comments, tweets etc.  We're over the moon! :-)

Q:  What have you done lately that is self-indulgent?  Are you patient and accepting of yourself? Have you ever posted an OB note?