Description: This is for an assignment I had on another website =o)

I hand stitched the border, and did a TON of journaling. The journaling is hidden on the scalloped lined paper behind the photo. Thanks so much for peeking!

Journaling reads:

I was challenged to complete a layout in which I was to journal to myself listing why I am "Beautiful." This was very difficult for me, as I am sure it would be for any woman who feels she doesn't 'measure-up'. I thought for days on the subject & asked myself, "What IS beauty anyway?" I believe I know the answer. Beauty is not in one's appearance. That is shallow and meaningless. Real beauty can only be found on the inside. In a person's morals, emotions, ethics, actions and thoughts. Beauty resides in one's soul. Now armed with this insight, I am better prepared to list the things I find to be beautiful about me.

5 physical traits I like best are:
1. My eyes. Not only are they the gateway to my soul, but they show me the glorious wonders and beauty that surround me every day.
2. My hands. They are not the youthful looking hands I used to love so much. Like me, they are aging. But everytime I look at my hands, I see my mother's hands in them. They are exactly the same.
3. My C-Section scar. It is my battle wound. It reminds me of the incredible fight I fought for my babies, and that with God and determination I can overcome any obstacle.
4. My skin. It is blotchy. It is wrinkled and even dimpled in some spots, but it allows me to feel the deep 'hugginz' from my babies, soft touches from my husband and the sun's warmth on a summer day.
5. My hair. I really do have good hair!


5 Personality traits I love most are:
1. Empathy. To sympathize with a friend is good, but to put yourself into their shoes and feel their pain with them is the greatest gift.
2. Sincerity. I mean what I say and I say what I mean whole heartedly.
3. Fun Loving. I love to laugh and love to play. I try not to be too serious and to see the good and the humor in most situations.
4. Trustworthy. My word is my bond. It is all I have to offer. When I tell someone something, they can put it in stone.
5. Determination. With determination, God and the love of my family I can do anything.

5 Achievements I am most proud of are:
1. My relationship with God. We've had our ups and downs and the Lord has guided me through with his love and mercy.
2. The relationship I have with my husband. I am a very lucky girl to have found my soul mate. We have a strong and unconditional love for each other.
3. Motherhood. I was told I'd never have children. I fought long and hard through many losses to bring my babies into this world. They are my greatest achievement.
4. Demolition Derby!! Me against 13 men. I came in 2nd place. I really CAN do anything!!
5. Jumping off of the Hoover Dam. I overcame an intense fear of heights and fear of falling. An added bonus? I get GREAT bragging rights!!
I saw a design very similar to this while browsing the gallery one day, and for the life of me, cannot remember who did it, but I loved it!