Fort Collins, Colorado Boudoir | This Is 35
For so many of us, aging is a negative thing. But, in true Nicole fashion, I fight the waves and choose to embrace birthdays and I know I’m not alone.
Today, my sister and I are celebrating our 35th and I have to say, it feels damn good! Many of you know that I spent years and years hating myself and nearly lost my battle with an eating disorder. Well, I’m finally saying Fuck It! I am who I am and screw you if you judge me. And I only regret that it’s taken me so long to figure this out. But, silver lining: the journey has been an epic one and, especially in this last year, I’ve seen some ideas really highlighted in my life and I’ve shared them below.
1.) I get to set the standard for how I’m treated. No more being the victim in the games that unhealthy people play. Nope. No Way! I have better things to do and more important people to surround myself with who add value to my life and whose lives I add value to as well. Anyone that wants to bring me down can fuck off. No explanation needed. In fact, getting rid of Debbie-Downers opens the doors for new, totally awesome people to show up.
2.) Even on the most draining of days, there is always something to be grateful for. For over a year, I’ve been starting my days by listing all the big and little things that I am grateful for. Trust me, there is always something.
3.) Friendships are golden. And I’ll take quality over quantity any day. Oh, and distance means nothing; a true friend will make time for you. And I will always make time for those that mean the most.
4.) I am not defined by my mistakes. What does define me, though, is how I learn and move forward. This has been a solid topic this year in conversation with my sister. We’ve both, in recent years, made our own giant faux-pas and it is what it is. At the end of the day, if I’ve learned learned from the mistakes made, forgiven myself, and moved forward, I’m on the right path. As for anyone that judges me for my mistakes, they can, you guessed it, Fuck off. Who has time for judgement anyhow?
Lingerie: Else, Maison Close, I.D. Sarrieri, La Perla, Only Hearts, The Giving Bride
