Mother-Marilyn, swimwear, and curves in Sports Illustrated?

My beautiful mother featuring me, Snow White

Apologies that this post is all over the place — I had a lot on the brain this week :)

My mom is the coolest lady. Hands down. She's loving and fun, but unfortunately lives about an hour and a half away from me. Despite the distance she still reaches out and cares for me (even though at times I'm a terrible, neglectful daughter who finds it difficult to make time for family). Pretty sure I'm the luckiest girl in the world.

Last week, GabiFresh's swimwear line came out. Gabi Gregg is a plus-size fashion blogger and basically a queen. I was overjoyed as I feasted my eyes upon the beautiful high-waisted bikinis that would actually fit my fairly large Mennonite behind (not the most desirable type of booty - I got it from my grandma). The only problem was the price tag. I am a broke student working one shift a week. I don't really have extra money to spend on luxuries, especially $100 bathing suits. I told my mom about the suit. Her reply?

"That's cute! You can use my Visa to buy it!"

This suit is the object of my adoration.
How cool is this thing?!

Say what? I was in shock. I wasn't sure if I was reading the text message correctly. I had to ask to make sure. My mom's reply nearly brought tears to my eyes.

"You bet! You have worked so hard for so long you deserve a treat!"

I knew I had been working hard lately. Not only that, but also stressing myself out and getting emotional over anything thrown my way. I didn't realize there was another person out there who actually recognized I was giving my all when it came to the work I was doing. I was honoured and still am flattered and so grateful to have my mom in my life. Whether it's giving me a little confidence boost like this every once in a while, or taking a day off work to clean my entire apartment, she's always there for me.

On the topic of swimwear...

If you haven't heard yet, the next swimsuit issue of Sports Illustrated is a bit of a game-changer. While it's no cover page (one day ladies, one day), the magazine will feature the first plus-size swimwear advertisement, to which I say "finally." Modelling a bikini for swimsuitsforall is famous and gorgeous plus-size model Ashley Graham. I'm so happy to see the love for curves growing (it's about time). I'm a firm believer in the "all bodies are beautiful" movement and this is definitely a step in the right direction. While I'm not a fan of Sports Illustrated, I am a fan of the growing acceptance for different body types in media.  If you do take interest in Sports Illustrated, this issue comes out February 9. Check out the ad below.

If you're like me and have a little more to love on your bones, I hope you feel encouraged. Big or small, rock your body.

I'd also like to note, this week is Eating Disorders Awareness week. Some of my classmates have done a phenomenal job addressing the issue and telling their own unbelievable and inspiring personal stories, including:

• Rachel Carlson: "Eating Disorder Awareness Week"
• Raegan Hedley: "National Eating Disorder Awareness Week, and a personal essay"
• Danielle Doiron: "Inches: The Story I Never Told You"

In case you missed it, last week I told the story of my struggles with my weight, my battles with binge eating, and my quest to find a balance when it comes to being healthy. You can check it out here.

For more information on eating disorders, visit NEDIC's website.