Dear Body,

I love you, but that doesn’t mean I want to get attached. This is a temporary thing between you and me, after all.

I thought I should “cc” you on the following philosophies that will impact our relationship this year. And before you get all sentimental on me, Body, I should tell you that, although you’re good to me now, you wouldn’t think twice about fucking me over, so consider this a mild intervention. I’m on to you.

You’ve already started leaving me little surprises like that small pooch under my belly button and the shift in boob-distribution – don’t think I’m oblivious to that little deal you’re making with gravity, Body. I know all about it.

So, to keep our relationship fair, I wanted to give myself a little reminder of the constant state of flux you’re in. I’m willing, after much vodka and mediation, to accept your evil ways. In fact, I’m willing to accept all the changes you throw at me so much so, that I’d like to give myself a little reminder – a Post-It note of sorts – so that I don’t forget about your constant, although not always approved, evolution. …We’re getting a tattoo.

You heard me.

I’m so decided on this that I’m making it #20 on the List. I’m changing, so are you; by 30, I feel accepting this is only fair to both of us. So, let’s make it official with ink. No erasers.

Remember that time we watched our mother survive cancer? We watched her body go from awesome one day to a deteriorating state the next from invasive chemotherapy. And you thought you had it bad with the occasional piece of unorganic fruit or the cigarettes we smoked in high school. Not even close, Body. Not even close.

I love you, but I have to remember that this is just a temporary thing between us. You could decide to let harmful things in, despite how hard we work together to keep them out. That’s just part of accepting change. But I’m not mad at you and I’m still going to treat you right, dear Body – Vitamin C; Swedish massages; essential oils and bath salts as always – this little tattoo will be our little covenant to keep it real; to not forget about the stuff on the inside, in my heart and in my head, that will keep us both strong when you decide you’ve had enough of pleasing me. You’re entitled, after all.

Think of this tattoo as my little love note, written in ink. No erasers.

With love (and a little less belly pooch, please),

sandyb

love notes.