I've gained 10 lbs since I've had two knee surgeries in 6 months. It's not because I'm sitting around eating bon-bons. I suppose I have to blame it on inactivity which is driving me absolutely nuts. I think I'm venting here.

I'm not a skinny woman, haven't been since I was 21. I have five children and enjoy my earned curves. However, I didn't ask to get more of them. I thought my knee was getting fixed. I didn't realize the bonus prize was a little extra padding around my hips. Is that nature's way of providing me with extra padding in case I fall off of my crutches? (Been there, done that...it still hurt even with the padding.)

So I ventured into this conversation with a really spectacular man who I've been getting to know. I think it's called dating. He's straight up with what he says, which I love. As much as women love to be told they look great, we'd like to hear the truth. He discussed curves with me on the phone last night. I spoke of my dislike for the extra 10 pounds. In the end, he told me that curves are spectacular and looking like a starving waif is not a look that's appealing to any man. Who knew. I wasn't going for the flat tummy and six pack abs, but I didn't realize the way I look was appealing to a man who just happens to look ultra marvelous.

So, I'm going to indulge in that ice cream today from the ice cream truck when my children beg me to have something yummy with them. I'm going to continue to love my huge lunchtime salads because I love them...not because they'll make me look skinny. I'm going to appreciate these hips...they've helped me give birth 5x, they've been helping to hold me up after massive knee reconstruction and.......they're catching the eye of someone I think is very special.

So, if you've got 10 pounds to shed, consider just appreciating it. I'm starting extra-padding appreciation day today.