I’m not sure if you’ve heard, but I’ve got some fabulous knees.
My calves, however, are another story. I’ve always had strong, wide, calves… partly because of genetics, partly from a lifetime of running on my toes. My lower legs don’t fit in Uggs. I need special sizing for ski boots. And, I’ve been told by men that they wished they had my calves.
While I’m incredibly thankful for healthy legs which get me where I want to go, I’ve always been a little self-conscious of my calves. And, shopping for pants can be a nightmare. (Forget skinny jeans, I’m lucky if I can squeeze into a plain pair of wide-leg corduroys.) It’s always a war of leg vs. material as I try not to split seams in dressing rooms.
So, last St. Patrick’s Day, when a friend’s sister was making shamrock leggings for a local 5K race, my friend warned her to leave a little more fabric for my calves.When the big day came and I put on the leggings, my friend’s sister took a good look at my infamous calves. She stared at at my legs a second longer than most people, as I uncomfortably waited for her reaction. “You have such skinny knees,” she said with a smile.
Her comment overjoyed me. It was such a simple statement, but it reminded me the importance of focusing on the positive. Now, when pants don’t fit in a dressing room, I don’t hate my calves. I just look for a pair of jeans which will best accentuate my fabulous knees.
Happy St. Patrick’s week everyone! Flaunt what you’ve got!
