Define Beautiful: Brooke

I’ve attempted to write this for Natalie many times. I’m sure there are versions saved in the documents on at least three computers. When she made threats of ending it, if people didn’t write—I got worried.

I have a voice and I have something to say. And Natalie is a great friend, and this is a good purpose.

I feel beautiful when I get ready for the day, and when I don’t. I love makeup-free Saturdays, and when I’m able to go that extra day without washing my hair. It may sound ridiculous, but I love it.

I feel beautiful when I am able to spend the day with my best friend—myself. I know my limits. I know what I enjoy, and what I don’t. I can do exactly what I want, and what will make me happy. I don’t have to worry about carrying on a conversation. My thoughts do all the talking. I can do exactly what I want—and that is beautiful.

I feel beautiful when I am surrounded by people who love me. My husband knows me better than I know myself. He just laughed at me, for saying I actually want to go to work. He knows I need to rest and soak this free time in before our baby comes in a few weeks. My parents, sisters and brother know what buttons to push to make me mad, and what buttons make me laugh hysterically.  My friends come out of the woodwork when I need them, want them and begin doubting my own credibility, intelligence, or more simply put—inner beauty.

I see beauty all around me. It is watching my garden grow, flowers blossom, in a beautiful dress or great pair of shoes. It is in the pictures scattered about my house reminding me of wonderful adventures I’ve taken. It is in the kindness of others.

I have been overwhelmed at the kindness of others recently. So many people have been on hand to serve me, to welcome me, to make me feel like I am valuable, and to be a friend that I need. They have held open doors, elevators, run errands for me, carried on conversations about all things Brooke. They want to know how I’m feeling. They have given me gifts, sent flowers for no reason, and made phone calls just to check in. Beauty is in the kindness and service of others.

This kind of beautiful makes me want to be the best person I can.

– Brooke

Can everyone go wish this girl a good luck? She’s about to have a baby. Like this week, which is about a month earlier than expected! I’m so glad we went to Chicago when we did.

The Beautiful Project: More definitions of beautiful, posted on Thursdays. Send me your answer to “what makes you feel beautiful” to natalie at thebobbypin.com.