Do you ever think about how what your kids see and feel about your body is so different from what you see and feel?⁠

I have always been a proponent of putting on a bathing suit and getting in the water with my kids, no matter what size I am or how I feel about my body. ⁠

This summer, months into staying at home and not focusing on the best eating and self-care habits, is not my most enthusiastic swimsuit season. But, I have put that swimsuit on anyway because I have one body and I am a mom to three kids who want me with them. ⁠

My kids could care less about my size. They only care about my presence. Just look at Ezra's face. He could be any one of your kids. ⁠

Our kids want our presence, not perfection.⁠

So this week, I want to encourage you to put on that swimsuit. Run through the sprinkler. Throw water balloons. Jump in the pool or the lake. Because, when you do, your kids will experience you WITH them, and that withness is real and lasting. ⁠

You are a mother. You are beautiful.⁠
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Don't wear a veil of shame this summer. Put that swimming suit on.⁠

This post first was published on Jessica's Instagram. Check out her Coronavirus Time Capsule for an easy way for family's to document this year.