When we have children, we seem to forget the person we were before they came along.
Many of us only identify as a mother, and from that point forward we become so far removed from the ideals we once held so dear.
One of those ideals would be wearing a bikini or swimsuit to the beach - a simple, but yet terrifying, experience after bringing children into the world.
But why does it need to be so terrifying? We have absolutely nothing to be ashamed of, we just brought a human miracle into the world.
However, one mum has told us that you should love yourself, and be confident in who you are following a recent trip to the beach.
Adrian was somehow taught a lesson by her eight-year-old daughter, who innocently asked: "Are you going swimming, where's your shirt?"
Her youngster asked her this question as Adrian never goes to the beach without a shirt since having her babies, deliberating the mum asks herself a series of questions:
"You haven't worn a bikini top in twenty something years. Why not? Your stomach hasn't seen the light of day since you were thirty pounds lighter. Why not?
"You used to be so confident, I tell myself. I used to love myself. Why does it matter? Does it even matter? Who cares?"
It is at this point that Adrian realises her daughter cares: "The little girl that scrutinises her mother at every step, every turn, every crossroad and yes, even every shirt."
Mum decided it was time to take her shirt off, she may have been uneasy, feeling 'chastised to cover up', as she doesn't deserve to take it off because she's not young anymore.
Nonetheless she tells herself something which is so important for all mums to understand:
"You are flawed. Scars, battle wounds, a C-section scar, none are pretty but they tell a beautiful story. You are older, I tell myself. I'm in my forties now and with age, I've matured and learned and am still learning to silence the voice that says you're not enough."
"I am enough. I am more than enough. I am strong. I am imperfect and I love with my whole heart."
So Adrian answered her eight-year-old daughter: "Well, my darling, I don't need it anymore."
And too right she doesn't, well done mama, and a wonderful example to set for your daughter too.
