{photography by alisia thompson at zota beach resort}

{J.Crew rick rack Two piece }

It’s been almost ELEVEN years since my open heart surgery.  And truly the last time I felt like I could confidently wear a bathing suit was a time before that.  Now I’m 35, have had two kids, plenty of cellulite, have chest tube scars, a long scar that goes from the side of my chest to the back, and a long line with scar tissue built up down the middle of my chest.  Deep V’s, will never be for me.  But I think for one of the first times, I feel comfortable in this body that has done so much for me.  And I know my kids deserve a mom that builds sandcastles, dives for sandollars, and jumps off the bow of the boat with them … not hiding because I’m in an ill-fitting suit.  Annnnyway…. climbing off my soap box now (:

This suit came out last year at J.Crew and both my sister and I wanted it, but it sold out of most sizes really quickly.  So when it popped up again this year, both of us grabbed it.  Now we just have to plan out who gets which beach days … or not (; and twin.  I really love it though – and love the fact that my bottom isn’t falling out and I can keep up with my kids in it.  There’s NOTHING worse than that.  Or nothing that makes me want to hide on a lawn chair under my cover up anyway.

I suggested a cute suit last year without trying it out, and I know a bunch of y’all got it… it was so dang cute and inexpensive.  Only to try it on and realize that wearing that cutie meant I would become a flasher.  So for me, the only real safe bet these days is J.Crew Swim.  I just feel like they have the appropriate amount of coverage for me … a 35 year old, mom of two!  And if you like to show more cheek, cheers to you!   But I’d be at like level 5000 awkward if I were.  ha.

Here’s a few other favorites i’ve eyed:

Oh and if you haven’t peeped my spring favorites post, here it is!