We had a wonderful time celebrating the Fourth Of July. We went to a festival in the mountains where my parents just built a house. Several years ago, the thought of going to any celebration sent me waves of panic. What about the food? What about the exercise I may miss? I cannot wear a bathing suit??!! I missed out on these opportunities because I was so entrenched in the eating disorder that I was unable to have fun. On this Independence Day, I am so thankful that I declared independence from the eating disorder.
I spent all my time thinking about food, calories, exercise, and how much I hated my body (really myself). I did not think that I could be so incredibly happy and carefree. On this day, I wore a bathing suit as I walked around the outdoor area. I slid down the bouncy house water slide with my children. I laughed, joked, and played games. These things are hard to do when the eating disorder is in control.
My now healthy body and mind could walk around with pride on this day. I am so thankful for my chance at recovery and thankful that I took the plunge.
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