Tell me about yourself.

I am a 37 year old mom to 2 grown step children and 1 adopted grown son. Grandmother to a rambunctious 7 year old. Mommy to my 4 legged brats, MBA graduate with a great job and wonderful husband. I LOVE Halloween, motorcycles, pitbulls, gardening, and volunteering in my community. I was raised by a single mom for 11 years and then became a pastor's daughter. I didn't fit in with the "Christian" view of submissive women who live to serve their husband. My mother raised me to be self sufficient, strong, and determined. I haven't really ever felt "girly" or the need to pamper myself.

How has your photo shoot experience shaped how you view yourself?

I feel like a new person! I was able to see that there is nothing wrong with pampering yourself. I learned to own my body and be proud of it! I started new habits of self care that I've never done before in my life and it feels wonderful. It was hard to make a choice financially that was just for me but I'm SO happy that I did. These pictures are a moment in time that I will always have and a reminder to always be true to me and love myself. Since I have done that, my husband has told me how happy it makes him to see me being more confident and stepping outside my comfort zone in more ways than just clothes and makeup. He is my rock and I didn't realize that my confidence did affect him as well. Because I am happier it is rubbing off on him.

What message would you like to give other women that are going through a difficult time in life and might not feel worthy?

There is never a time in life that you aren't worthy. No matter if you've done wrong, feel like you are failing, or just plain sad...no matter what you are WORTHY just for being you. Each day is a new day and take it as a blank slate. Write on your mirror that you are worthy so you can see it everyday.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Don't change who you are. You can accomplish anything you set your mind to...really...you can and will. Your weight does NOT determine your value.

What would you tell other women about stepping out of their comfort zone and doing a photo shoot?

DO IT and don't overthink it. Kelsey will make you comfortable. I spent weeks stressing on what to wear, how do I want makeup and hair, what if these look stupid, etc... Kelsey and her amazing makeover artist had it all covered! I shouldn't have worried at all. The money is worth it for the amazing experience and will be cherished for the rest of your life. Start a skin care routine, go tan, get your nails done...we all deserve that anyway! Focus on yourself and truly enjoy it.