Pictures of You Photo Project: See Steph in 9th Grade

The ladies over at Elastic Waist are hosting this really cool photo project called, "Pictures of You." The philosophy behind this project is that we (people) are not "Befores" and "Afters." This idea really resonated with me because I know that in the past I would give myself more love and validation when I achieved my "After" status and was back in my skinny jeans. It was as if I only mattered more or was special when I was thin and pretty.

In the Pictures of You photo project, anyone is welcome to submit photos of themselves and share a short caption of the story behind the picture. You are free to share "you" in an honest and open way. Since I thought this project was so cool, I submitted three pictures of myself including this one of me of my 9th grade school picture. Every time I look at this picture, I am reminded that aging has been a great blessing for me. Not only physically, but emotionally and spiritually. I'm so grateful to the heavens for helping me grow out of this bad hair and ugly duckling stage. But hey, it's puberty, and I know I'm not alone.

Check out the rest of my collection which includes the story behind this 9th grade picture.. Please participate as well. it's easy. Simply email elasticwaist@condenast.com and put in the subject: Pictures of You submission, and attach your photos and a caption for each. And remember, this is a place to be you!