Happy Birthday to Operation Beautiful!

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Operation Beautiful is my other blog; the concept is that people write positive messages on Post-Its and leave them in public places for others to find.  Many people take photos of their notes and email them to me (operationbeautiful@gmail.com), and each day, I update the site with new notes. 

 

It’s a common misconception that I set out to ‘create’ Operation Beautiful, but that couldn’t be further from the truth.  Operation Beautiful has always been – and continues to be – a purely organic movement focused on random acts of kindness.  I posted the first note in a public restroom.  I was taking classes at a local community college because I was considering a career change, and I was really struggling emotionally with the workload (I’m sure the fact that I was blogging and working forty hours a week and planning a wedding didn’t help matters).  I remember standing in the bathroom, looking into the mirror, and thinking that was I was total failure, that I was stupid, that I was worthless, that I would never succeed.  And then, something came over me – I pulled out a sheet of paper and wrote, “You are beautiful” on it.  I taped it to a mirror, took a picture, and blogged about my experience.  I wrote that posting a positive message for a stranger to find reminded me that I wasn’t a failure, that I was capable, that I was worthy, and that I could do it.  When I asked my readers to participate, I thought maybe a few people would join me.  I never could have anticipated that Operation Beautiful would become what it is today.

 

Since the site started THREE YEARS AGO this week, I’ve received 10,000 notes from all over the world, including a note from every continent – even Antarctica.  To me, one of the coolest parts of the experience has been watching the site trend younger and younger – it’s huge in middle and high schools, which (as we all know!) really need the dose of positivity.

 

The site has been featured on The Today Show and the Oprah Winfrey Network and spawned two books, including an adult book and a tween book (which comes out this December).  People often ask me if I’m proud of Operation Beautiful, and I am, but I don’t feel like it’s really ‘mine.’  The site wouldn’t exist without the thousands of people who have participated in it and spread the word that each of us are worthy, good enough, and – yes – beautiful, on the inside and out.

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It’s been three wonderful years of beautiful.  And to celebrate, I’m hosting a giveaway of three copies of the Operation Beautiful book – the winners can choose the original adult book or the upcoming tween/teen book.

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To enter, simply leave a comment describing an amazing person that you have the pleasure of knowing.  And – YES! – it can be yourself!  I’ll start things off with an ode to MomHTP, who is coming back to Charlotte today to help me with Henry.  She is awesome.

 

PS – Check out the Operation Beautiful site, follow us on Twitter and Facebook, and, if you post a note, be sure to snap a picture and email it to me at operationbeautiful@gmail.com.  All the notes go up on the site for others to enjoy!

{ 216 comments }

 

  • Emily June 19, 2012, 9:09 am

    Happy birthday, OB!

    The single most amazing person I know is my grandmother. She is eternally optimistic, wise, and sees the good in everyone. 82 years old and still the most active person I know! She is beautiful, inside and out.

  • Kelly June 19, 2012, 9:11 am

    The most amazing person I know is my husband. He is the kindest, most supportive person I have ever met. He is humble and caring and always always gives everything his best. He makes me a better person and I couldn’t love anyone more.

  • AlisonJ June 19, 2012, 9:19 am

    My cousin, Katie. She came from very humble beginnings & worked her tail off. Got a full scholarship to college, took advantage of every opportunity she could (including study abroad in two places!), and she just graduated and received a Fullbright Scholarship to teach English in Indonesia. After that, it’s Teach for America. Wow, I am truly impressed by the strength and beauty of my dear cousin. If I win, I will definitely be sharing the book with her. And knowing her, she will share it with all of those around her!

  • Kristen June 19, 2012, 9:22 am

    The most amazing person I know is my high school religion teacher Sister Julie. She is inspirational, accepting, affirming, and enthusiastic. I know for a fact that she not only helped me realize my self-worth, but dozens of other girls (I went to an all-girls high school)

    When you would tell her about a hard test, about how you were unsure that you could beat your time, etc. she would always say, “Well, I believe in you.” A strange thing to say out loud to another person, but SO great to hear!

  • Sara June 19, 2012, 9:22 am

    My mom! She’s the most amazing and strong woman I know!

  • TiffanyS June 19, 2012, 9:22 am

    My mother has been through some major challenges especially the last two years, and she has been so strong and brave. I’m amazed by her strength!

  • Kyra June 19, 2012, 9:23 am

    my law school roommate! She always encourages me and is constantly optimistic. She continues to be a strong support as we study for the bar exam on opposite sides of the country

  • Elisabeth June 19, 2012, 9:24 am

    Happy 3rd Birthday, OB! The most amazing person I know…easy…my mom!

  • Lizzy June 19, 2012, 9:24 am

    It’s difficult to pick the most amazing person I know because I have several amazing people in my life. One especially amazing person is my fiancé. He is dependable, trustworthy, a hard worker, and extremely caring. He loves me with all of his heart and shows it every single day. He is also goofy and fun just like me. He is overall a great person and I can’t wait to marry him.

  • Jen June 19, 2012, 9:29 am

    My fiance is an amazing man. He has a rare syndrome that will affect him through his life, but he remains positive and giving. He is the most loving and loyal family man I could ever ask for.

    The most recent sweet act of kindness he’s done: giving our cart to a mom struggling with a baby carrier in Target, while looking for her other child!

  • Carol June 19, 2012, 9:30 am

    My daughter ….. absolutely the most caring , trustworthy , happy , kind, amazing girl in the world – just BEAUTIFUL !

  • Claudia June 19, 2012, 9:31 am

    Congratulations on three years. OB is an amazing operation. Someone amazing in my life would be my mom; not only is she the main bread winner in my family, but she also spends time with the kids as well. She is also studying Spanish and makes an effort to see her family (living in different countries) as much as possible.

  • Maria June 19, 2012, 9:33 am

    My sister….a strong, caring, loving, and giving individual. I can’t wait to be her matron of honor on October 21st when she says “i do”!

  • Samantha June 19, 2012, 9:33 am

    Happy Birthday Operation Beautiful! I have the pleasure of knowing my cousin, Jocelyn. She’s an amazing young girl, very bright and energetic, and she looks up to me – it reminds me of all the things I want to do because I want to show her that anything is possible!

  • Kelly June 19, 2012, 9:35 am

    My amazing person is my daughter. She is a beautiful, funny, outgoing 13 year old. She just finished up her 7th grade year and let me tell you – 7th grade girls can be brutal!! Your new book should be handed out to every 7th grade girl out there!

  • Carrie June 19, 2012, 9:39 am

    It is hard to choose just one person. I have three sisters, a brother, a mother and father, and grandmothers who have all set amazing examples for me. I am grateful for their love, compassion, faith, strength, and fortitude. We have all experienced difficult trials both as a family and individually, but through it all we have stuck together and have overcome! They are incredible!

  • Katie June 19, 2012, 9:42 am

    The first person that comes to mind is my grandma. She is 77, and even though it’s hard for her to walk around, it doesn’t stop her from doing much.
    I love visiting her and listening to all of the things she’s read in magazines, or newspapers. I find her insights and beliefs on things fascinating, and I’m always game for a good story.
    I love my grandma, and I don’t know what I’d do without her.

  • Abbey June 19, 2012, 9:43 am

    My friend is getting married this summer and I’m thrilled to be in her wedding. Recently I’ve felt different from her, and I hid those difference. When I finally came clean, she surprised me by loving me all the same. I never should have doubted her or her ability to love.

  • Sarena (The Non Dairy Queen) June 19, 2012, 9:43 am

    My grandmother is that person to me. She has taught me to be strong and she always makes me feel like such a special person. She hasn’t had the easiest life, but she still holds strong and my world is a better place with her in it.

  • Andrea June 19, 2012, 9:43 am

    I’m going to say my younger sister-in-law. She is so selfless and kind, and she is very inspiring – she’s lost 30 pounds over the last 6 months and has just gotten into running. I’m so proud of her!

  • Bree June 19, 2012, 9:45 am

    The most amazing person I know is my best friend. He’s talented and determined… And he’s taught me so much about life.

  • Army Amy* June 19, 2012, 9:46 am

    I have to shout out my cousin (she is a big OB fan)! Sarah has put OB notes in her school, made anti-bullying youtube videos, and has grown into a really cool girl!*

  • Danielle M. June 19, 2012, 9:49 am

    My mom is the most amazing person I know. She is a single mother to myself and my four brothers, and she is the strongest, most positive person I know. I strive to be like her.

  • Megan@ The Running Doc June 19, 2012, 9:51 am

    An amazing person I have the pleasure of knowing is my sister. She’s only 16 and going through a bit of a rough time with the combination of boys and “mean girls” but my sister is amazing, beautiful, and smart!

  • Joy June 19, 2012, 9:51 am

    My friend Laura who steps out of herself to be the kind of friend I need. Sometimes that’s the friend who says its okay and sometimes it’s the friend who kicks me in the…

  • Michelle June 19, 2012, 9:52 am

    The most amazing person I know is my husband. He does so much for me and our family. I wouldn’t be who I am today without him.

    Thanks for such a great giveaway!!

  • Ashley @ The North Carolina Cowgirl June 19, 2012, 9:52 am

    My Dad’s mom was the most amazing person I had the pleasure of knowing. She was always looking out for everyone and loved to help people. She was always there for me during the tough times in my life. I lost her to cancer in Feb and since then life just hasn’t been the same. I miss her so much and am thankful for all the good times I shared with her. RIP Grandma..I love you!

  • Angela @ Eat Spin Run Repeat June 19, 2012, 9:52 am

    Aw Caitlin, seeing all these notes gives me that warm tingly feeling inside and makes me all happy and teary at the same time! My shout out will be to my roommate, who always has a way of putting me in a great mood, no matter what has happened during my day. She cheers me on, encourages me, and I can’t imagine what my day-to-day would be like without her! 🙂

  • Caitlin @ This Bride's Joyride June 19, 2012, 9:52 am

    I have to say my Mom! She is truly amazing and is always there for myself and my two sisters when we have hard times. I can’t imagine a more positive, optimistic and strong woman in my life!

  • colleen June 19, 2012, 9:53 am

    I know so many amazing people. Right now it is an old friend from college who was informed this morning the cancer she has been battling in her lungs and heart has spread to her liver. Through her 10-year battle she has continued to teach in her classroom and remains hopeful things will work out.

  • Lindsey June 19, 2012, 9:55 am

    My fiancé, he’s balancing working full time with finishing a degree in Mechanical Engineering but he always takes time to relax with me, take bikes out with me or just hang out. He’s so hard-working and so sweet and caring- he’s just wonderful!

  • Anne Weber-Falk June 19, 2012, 9:56 am

    My daughter Emma. Emma has Asperger’s Syndrome. This is a form of autism. She has gone through some tough times and has had many challenges to face, with more to come. She just keeps going. Once in a while she gets discouraged but it lasts only a few moments. She sighs, then shakes it off and moves on. I love her so much. She is the most beautiful, vibrant, strong person I know. She always lives life to the fullest.

  • Kim June 19, 2012, 9:57 am

    I have a coworker named Beth that I think is an awesome person. She is upbeat all the time, and always has a compliment for everyone. She brightens everyone’s day.

  • marie June 19, 2012, 9:59 am

    I am beyond lucky to know my friend Heather. She is loving, supportive, and funny. No matter what is happening in her life, she always remembers to ask me about mine. She just gave birth to a beautiful baby boy, and she is kind enough to share him with me by making me his honorary aunt (it’s a southern thing!). I love Heather dearly and think she is one of the most beautiful people I’ve ever known.

  • Cait @ Cait Strides June 19, 2012, 10:00 am

    It’s hard to pick just one. But I’d have say my mother. She raised 3 wonderful children without even breaking a sweat. I’m blessed that I’m not only able to call her my mother, but also my friend.

  • Yin June 19, 2012, 10:00 am

    My mom. She’s been through a lot of health issues but she keeps fighting. I love her spirit for never giving up!

  • marci June 19, 2012, 10:01 am

    My husband, he help me in so many ways, and always lets me know how special i am to him

  • Adriana June 19, 2012, 10:01 am

    I know it may sound cliche, but I have to go with my mom. She is not only beautiful on the outside, but on the inside as well. She is the type of person that is always willing to help others out, regardless of how overflowing her own plate is. She’s kind, generous, and my best friend. I couldn’t ask for a better mother and role model.

  • Ali June 19, 2012, 10:03 am

    My friend Andrea is one of the most amazing people I know. She is loving, caring, an amazing teacher, mom, and pastor’s wife. She’s become a great friend over the last few months and I’m so glad I get to share a part of my life with her.

  • Mel June 19, 2012, 10:04 am

    My Grandma.

    She always stuck true to her beliefs and exercised them when they were challenged, demonstrated an enormous capacity for love, inspired my love for thrift store shopping, made the best cookies, and bought me Trix Cereal for Christmas every year! (A HUGE deal, since my Mom never bought my sister and I sugar cereals.)

    PS- Have you gotten a note from Morocco yet? I want to write one in Arabic! Guess, I should learn Arabic first though!

  • Lili June 19, 2012, 10:08 am

    My dear friend who lost her mother at a young age, but now is incredibly hungry and ebullient for life. She makes me realize the joy of every sunrise.

  • Lisa June 19, 2012, 10:09 am

    My daughters continue to amaze and astound me every day! Congrats on Henry 🙂

  • Helen June 19, 2012, 10:10 am

    My best friend Kate – she is my most treasured friend, my confidant, my rock. I love her to pieces. She’s been through some tough times but come out on the other side a stronger person. She is a great friend. The best.

    I made her a video tribute, but not sure I want to share it on here as it’s totally sappy! LOL

  • Kelly June 19, 2012, 10:12 am

    My friend Jenna – a friend, workout buddy, and motivator. She has helped me through a rough time and brought me back to feeling like myself again.

  • Jen June 19, 2012, 10:12 am

    My almost 90 year old Grandma really is amazing. She still works 3 days a week, taking a bus and two trains to get to her office. She is so much younger than her years. She watches tv shows that I watch- though she tapes them on vhs tapes :), reads books that I read, and always has the best advice. I hope to be just like her when I “grow up”!

  • Allison June 19, 2012, 10:14 am

    I would have to say my dad. He is awesome. He has ALS and you wouldn’t be able to tell it by his spicy personality. He is the most funny person I’ve ever met in my life. He has an amazing strong spirit and I feel thankful and honored everyday he is my father. So many people have told him he is a true inspiration and they have no reason to be down when is always so positive about his situation. I love him and am happy I get to call him dad :)He has taught me more about life and love then anyone I have ever met.

  • Erin June 19, 2012, 10:14 am

    The most amazing person I’ve ever known was my grandma. She has been gone for almost 14 years, but I still think about her kindess and love everyday.

  • cristina June 19, 2012, 10:18 am

    My grandmother. She is the strongest most amazing woman I know.

  • Nicole June 19, 2012, 10:18 am

    The most amazing person I know is definitely my mom. I would love to share this book with her! She was put through a lot with me and my Anorexia. Now that I am recovered, I know how much I owe her. I broke her heart every day with my mental illness because there was, truly, nothing she could physically do to make it go away. She never gave up on me though, always supported me and helped me through tough days. I love her so much and will always always appreciate everything she did for me during my hard time.

  • Neely June 19, 2012, 10:21 am

    My best friend who runs marathons, has an 18 month old, works, and runs a house. She is a rockstar!

  • Emma June 19, 2012, 10:24 am

    My older sister is strong and beautiful and caring. I always watched and learned from her growing up– and still do!

  • Tina June 19, 2012, 10:24 am

    My four sisters are amazing women!

  • Emily June 19, 2012, 10:25 am

    I want to acknowledge my beautiful niece Sofia, who recently turned 8. She’s a big sister to 3 younger sisters, helps my sister and brother-in-law out all of the time, is a gorgeous child inside and out, and would benefit from reading your book when it comes out in December! I worry about her, knowing how hard it can be to have a positive self-image personally, and am happy for her that Operation Beautiful exists!

  • Jen in TX June 19, 2012, 10:30 am

    My dear Aunt Martie–who sees the beauty in everyone.

  • Sarah June 19, 2012, 10:30 am

    One of the most amazing people I know is my friend Kathleen. She is about 25 years older than me and is a total rock star. She’s teaching me to be fearless, to take risks and she’s encouraging me by example to take the road less traveled. I’m so lucky to have her in my life.

  • Ali June 19, 2012, 10:34 am

    My 10-year old daughter. She’s funny, wise, smart and insightful and so happy in her own skin that the thought of not liking herself would be completely foreign to her.

  • Amanda June 19, 2012, 10:36 am

    My friend Karen. She is a widow, a mother to three amazing children, and has served as a surrogate mother-turned-friend to me during graduate school and beyond. She is so incredibly strong. I treasure knowing her.

  • Jessica June 19, 2012, 10:40 am

    An amazing person that I am so happy to know is my college friend, Emily. Even though we live on different sides of the country, her positivity, happiness, kindness, and love is contagious. She is beautiful from the inside out!

  • Emma June 19, 2012, 10:42 am

    My older sister is an amazing woman that I look up more and more as we get older. She is kind and patient, and oh so thoughtful. She had a beautiful baby boy 6 weeks ago and it’s been amazing to watch her transition into mother mode – her love for him is so pure and limitless…it’s an example of how everyone should try to love!

  • Kim June 19, 2012, 10:43 am

    I would have to say all my great teachers. They made me love to learn and become a teacher myself.

  • Karlee June 19, 2012, 10:45 am

    Congrats on 3 years! Amazinnnnnnng! I just graduated and moved across the country (and am flat broke), so I am gonna toot my own 😛 I am proud of myself for finishing my undergrad and transitioning into the corporate world. I have struggled, but I think I am doing a pretty amazing job. Go me! Woo.

  • Blakely @ The Husky Life June 19, 2012, 10:46 am

    My younger sister is the most amazing person I know. She never ceases to amaze me with how loving and caring she is towards others. Her sense of humor is contagious and no matter how down I feel, I can always count on her to pick me up.

  • J June 19, 2012, 10:48 am

    The most amazing person has to be my mom. She has always inspired me and supported me throughout my life. She is a very strong woman who has done so much for me.

  • Annette@FitnessPerks June 19, 2012, 10:49 am

    Oooh I LOVE this! AN amazing person I know is my MOM! She is incredible -such an angel.

  • Lindsay June 19, 2012, 10:57 am

    I am grateful to know my mom as well!! She is awesome!!!

  • Allie June 19, 2012, 10:58 am

    My mom is an a-m-a-z-i-n-g person and I learn so much from watching her example of a strong, capable, loving woman. She homeschools me and my siblings, is active and healthy, volunteers a ton in our community, and is a great example of a healthy woman. She has helped me so much to become the person I am today. I love her so much! Thanks Mom;)

  • Allison R June 19, 2012, 10:59 am

    My little sister, Erin. She encountered a lot at an early age and yet she has blossomed into an amazing young women. I’m so proud to call her her my sister.

  • Rebecca June 19, 2012, 11:01 am

    The most amazing person i know is my dad! He has been my inspiration, with his job of researching lipids, being a doctor, running to work + back, running marathons, and being loving, while being busy!

  • clare @ fittingitallin June 19, 2012, 11:01 am

    My mother! she is the most selfless, fun, caring, dedicated woman I know. my hero!

  • Libby @ PracticallyParenting June 19, 2012, 11:03 am

    Happy Birthday, OB!

    My husband is a wonderful person I know. He is constantly thinking and rethinking ways that we can do our best to raise our daughter to know how beautifully unique and. absolutely adored she is.

    Plus, he works hard to make sure that everyone in his life feels the same way!

  • Natalie June 19, 2012, 11:04 am

    The most amazing person I know is my Dad! 🙂

  • Erin June 19, 2012, 11:05 am

    My mother is the most amazing person I know! I don’t know what I would do without her. She is strong and confident.

  • Kris June 19, 2012, 11:07 am

    My mom! Despite lots of struggles, she is intelligent, strong, beautiful and inspiring; plugging on at 88. I want to emphasize how important it is for older ladies to know they are beautiful too! Our youth-oriented culture tells us that aging isn’t beautiful, but nothing could be further from the truth. Women of all ages are beautiful!!

  • Staci June 19, 2012, 11:09 am

    The most amazing person I know is my friend Carole. She had breast cancer, and continued to remain generous to everyone around her – even people she didn’t know. I strive to be as kind and thoughtful as she is daily 🙂

  • Melanie June 19, 2012, 11:10 am

    My sister is a huge inspiration to me, and while we have our disagreements, I love that we can challenge eachother and grow from our experiences together.

  • Tami Merritt June 19, 2012, 11:11 am

    For three years I worked with the most AMAZING teacher. She taught me how to not only teach from my brain, but also my heart. She never knew Operation Beautiful, but every day I would walk into her room and find post-it notes on her kids desk giving them compliments. Her students were kind, hard-working, and happy.

  • m June 19, 2012, 11:12 am

    I definitely needed this today. I am/was(?) having a moment where I felt completely worthless and like a failure – just one of those moments where life seems too overwhelming. Thanks for the post.

    I am lucky to have so many inspirational people in my life, and I have to choose my father who seems to always carry himself with such dignity and has overcome more obstacles than I have ever known. He is an inspiration to all.

  • Alexandra June 19, 2012, 11:16 am

    The most loving, positive, inspirational and beautiful person on the inside and out that I know is my mom. I truly give her credit for my healthy attitude on my health and life in general. I am beyond blessed that I was born to such an amazing woman! I can only hope that I have a child that feels the same about me some day 🙂

  • Kaley June 19, 2012, 11:21 am

    I have the pleasure of knowing my 12 year old sister. She is the sweetest little girl in the world. There are 5 kids in our family and Katie makes sure to treat everyone with kindness and love. She is so fair that when she tells one of us that she loves us, she tells the other three as well so as to not hurt anyones feelings. I would love to share the operation beautiful teen book with her!!

  • Carolyn June 19, 2012, 11:25 am

    One of the most amazing people I know and who I am completely inspired by, is my boyfriend. He works so hard each day, and is the most selfless person I know.

    This post made me quite emotional as I just put myself through a grueling workout and have still been feeling “blah” about myself and all of my body image issues. Seeing this post after my workout truly helped me feel better…so thank you.

  • Sara June 19, 2012, 11:27 am

    The most amazing person I know is myself. Before you even gave me permission to pick myself, the first thing that came to mind was me.

    This is a big change for me. Just a few months ago, I would have never put me down as someone amazing. But in the past three years I have lost over 100 lbs and in the last 10 months, I went from no running to doing several 5ks, a 10k, a mud run and my first half-marathon. I lead my first Relay for life team, and we came in 2nd for fundraising. Now the committee wants me to help plan next year’s Relay.

    There are many other accomplishments I could list, but I think the most important one is that I am really beginning to believe in me. With that one things there is nothing I cannot conquer.

  • Allie June 19, 2012, 11:28 am

    I absolutely love this project! I own the adult book and it is so inspiring. I used this idea with my High School students on Anti-Bullying Day and had them post inspirational sticky-notes all over the school; they loved it! I am excited for the teen book to come out 🙂

  • Amye June 19, 2012, 11:30 am

    My mom is an ispiration to me! She’s a hard worker, selfless, and loving! That is awesome that Operation Beautiful is celebrating three years!

  • Jen F June 19, 2012, 11:30 am

    That’s so exciting! Happy third year to Operation Beautiful! It’s such a wonderful contribution to the world.

    The first person who comes to my mind as an amazing person I have the pleasure of knowing is my boss. I’ve had a lot of bosses at my company (I’ve been here a long time) and she is by far the best. She always knows the right thing to say at the right moment. She’s smart, compassionate, and she treats all of her employees as the unique people we are. She’s terrific at seeing situations from a variety of view points and figuring out the ideal solution. She’s good at making tense situations light; my favorite of her sayings is “My anger (frustration, sadness, etc) is a puddle, and I’m choosing to step out of it.”

    Congrats to OB!

  • Veronica June 19, 2012, 11:34 am

    I met my friend James randomly in a different country for work and he is probably the most genuinely kind person I know. I will be moving in a week and will have to say goodbye, but he inspires me to be compassionate and thoughtful every day.

  • Coco June 19, 2012, 11:40 am

    Can it be a Male? My favorite person in the whole world is my older brother. He is a Marine pilot currently on a 10-month deployment, away from his wife and 7-month-old daughter, and I know how difficult it is for him (and all of them–and me!) but he is serving our country which makes me so proud. He is a fantastic brother, always is there to support me and love me, and he just turned 27 on Saturday. I miss him and love him to pieces.

  • Robyn June 19, 2012, 11:41 am

    I have some of the world’s most beautiful friends! They always know how to make me feel beautiful…this seems like the type of book that would be fun for us to share around with each other to remind us all how beautiful we are every day!!

    Thanks Caitlin!

  • Jessica June 19, 2012, 11:42 am

    My best friend Jessica (yes, same name) is the most beautiful person I know inside and out. She is caring, sweet, loving and the most genuine person I have ever known. She is a wonderful human being and she has the ability to brighten someone’s day simply by being there.

  • Jessica June 19, 2012, 11:43 am

    My great aunt Norma was one of the most amazing people I’ve known. She was such a funny, independent, adventurous woman, and I’m glad I knew her (she passed away last year).

  • Cassie June 19, 2012, 11:52 am

    One of the many amazing people I know is my friend Jes, she is an amazing mama and very talented party planner and photographer and she has decided to follow her dreams and quit her day job to spend more time with her son and do what she loves! I’m so proud and inspired by her! Jes @ livethefancylife.com It was in part due to her encouragement that I started my own blog!

  • Howdy from NYC June 19, 2012, 11:56 am

    My Mother is and will always be my best friend. I hope I turn out just like her 🙂

  • Kathy June 19, 2012, 11:57 am

    My good friend, Corina. She has faced so many tough, tough situations in the past few years yet she stays optimistic and she just never quits. She is such a hard working, kind, caring woman, she amazes me!

  • Lauren T June 19, 2012, 12:04 pm

    My mom is the best woman I know. She always tries to make my sister and I feel like we are special, and strives to makes others feel great in the exercise classes she teaches. I hope to be an amazing mother and friend to my future children like she is to us. She is my best friend and the best mom I know. I love her!

  • Lauren T June 19, 2012, 12:05 pm

    Congrats on 3 years! That’s amazing and so is this project!

  • Tanner June 19, 2012, 12:10 pm

    My Grandmother has been my role model throughout my life. She is the most caring, most beautiful person, inside and out! I am so glad that I’ve had her in my life to look up to!

  • Katie @ Peace Love & Oats June 19, 2012, 12:10 pm

    My great aunt Avis, who passed away at 95 just a year and a half ago, is one of my greatest role models. She lost her husband at a young age and had no children so she took over the newspaper that they owned and not only ran that but was on the board of my grandfather’s company and held several positions at her alma mater, University of Missouri. Beyond her business accomplishments, she loved fashion and style but also made the best gooey rolls I’ve ever had. I loved visiting her when I was home and miss her a lot. She taught me to always believe in myself and that I can do so much more than I ever imagined!

  • Chelsea @ One Healthy Munchkin June 19, 2012, 12:14 pm

    I’m really glad to know my Aunt Tracey. She doesn’t know it, but she’s had a huge influence on me in so many ways – my passion for being environmentally friendly, reading, local foods, the arts… I feel like she has helped to open my eyes and make me a better person!

  • Joy June 19, 2012, 12:15 pm

    What a wonderful movement you have started, Caitlin. You really should be proud of yourself. Congratulations on three years!

    My husband is amazing. He makes me feel strong and beautiful. He has told me many times that he loves me not despite my flaws and problems but because of them. He says he doesn’t see them as flaws and problems but rather a part of who I am and he loves all of me. I don’t know how I got so lucky to find him.

  • Lisa June 19, 2012, 12:18 pm

    I have the pleasure of knowing my mother. She is an amazing and strong woman who never takes a day for granted! She tells us all we are perfect just the way we are and never lets us get down! She is the absolute best person I know!

  • jameil June 19, 2012, 12:27 pm

    My husband is the awesomest! We’re 12 days from celebrating a year of marriage and my joy and contentment with our life together grows every week. I was really struggling to run 13.1 miles for the first time this morning. With just 1.6 miles left, I couldn’t get out of my own way so I called him. He made me laugh and I ran it on in so I could come home and see him before he went to work. Truly a delight in my life.

  • Vicki June 19, 2012, 12:28 pm

    I have the pleasure of knowing my boyfriend… He had a work accident and had to have a finger amputated. It’s “only” a finger but when you’re 22 it’s a big deal, especially because you wonder what your friends and relatives will be saying and thinking about it. He was so brave to deal with the surgery, the pain, and the new way his hand looks. Today, almost 1 year after the amputation, he got his self-confidence back and decided to learn from the whole experience rather than acting like a victim.

    Being Beautiful isn’t only for women – it is also for men. He is beautiful!

  • Megan June 19, 2012, 12:30 pm

    My mom is wonderful and amazing and beautiful too! She recently very selflessly nursed me through surgery, what a help moms are!

  • Kristin June 19, 2012, 12:32 pm

    My husband! He has a strong passion for life and not being afraid to try anything!

  • Lindsey Gail June 19, 2012, 12:37 pm

    Happy Birthday to Operation Beautiful! Yesterday, I celebrated my 24th birthday. During my rather uneventful birthday, I was writing about how I would be an ideal chair for a committee. As I was writing about my qualifications, I realized that I really do have some experience and competence! I’ve wanted to be a psychologist since the 4th grade, and it’s so nice to see that my dreams are actualizing! My life isn’t perfect, and it’s still a work-in-progress, but I was all smiles yesterday.

    Thank you for putting some serious positivity out into the internet! I feel better having visited your blog. =)

  • Tasha the clean eating mama June 19, 2012, 12:39 pm

    My son. He has taught me that unconditional love exists. He doesn’t care if I have gained or lost weight, if I am all dressed up or in my pajamas, a face full of make up or just woke up with bed head. he loves me regardless. And I should love myself regardless too.

  • Janelle June 19, 2012, 12:47 pm

    My friend Kelsey, who I can call at anytime, and she’ll listen to me and encourage me. She is so joyful, and we always laugh together. We’ve been friends since 1st grade!

  • Liz June 19, 2012, 12:50 pm

    My aunt. She’s strong, independent and full of good advice. She’s been there for me through the ups and downs in life and I am so very thankful to have her in my life.

  • Mamamac June 19, 2012, 12:53 pm

    The past five years have been the hardest five years my mother has ever endured. She has not complained once. I am in awe of her every day.

  • Mari June 19, 2012, 12:54 pm

    My mom–she’s beautiful on the inside and out and is smart, funny, caring, and an all-around awesome person. She’s my best friend!

  • Hayley June 19, 2012, 1:00 pm

    My sister is amazing and she is the most beautiful person I have ever met (in every possible way). She has always been there for me and I know she always will be.

  • Michelle S June 19, 2012, 1:02 pm

    Yea Operation Beautiful!
    The beautiful person that I have the pleasure of knowing is my soon-to-be 7 year-old son (his birthday is on Thursday). He is all boy, full of adventure and love! I love watching him grow and to see the world through his eyes as he discovers more and more about it and who he is in that world. I’m blessed beyond measure to have this guy. He makes life very fun, interesting, and BEAUTIFUL!

  • Courtney June 19, 2012, 1:04 pm

    My mentor and close friend, Mrs. C is absolutely amazing. She’s the mother I never could have dreamed of having 🙂

  • Jenni June 19, 2012, 1:05 pm

    I absolutely love my friend Julie. She gives me the strength I need to make it through every day. Her faith in me is inspirational.

  • Emily @ Relishments June 19, 2012, 1:09 pm

    I’m going to go with my friend Jen. Jen is a teacher, but she’s also into crafting. She’s planning to start her own business and has fearlessly begun doing all the things she needs to (getting licensed, etc) and showing at craft shows. I’m so impressed by her awesome work!

  • Jillian June 19, 2012, 1:10 pm

    well, at the risk of sounding like a real sap — YOU are the first person that came to mind — AND i dont even really “know” you! it’s been amazing to follow along on your journey through HTP blog, and you’ve been a true inspiration. With Henry’s birth, I just find myself admiring you more and more for your honesty, candor, and humor. AND, you’ve given me really great professional advice… no matter how straightforward it may have been 🙂 celebrate your successes… you deserve it!

  • Dana June 19, 2012, 1:11 pm

    Congratulations on the 3 year Operation Beautiful Anniversary!

    The amazing person I am lucky to know is my Dad. He has always been such a rock in my life and always pushed me to be better, achieve more, and live life to the fullest. He is the perfect balance between serious and fun and has taught me the importance of working hard but also to not take yourself too seriously and laugh. :0) He lives an active and healthy lifestyle and has encouraged and supported me in my own personal healthy living journey. I’m proud to call him my Dad every day.

  • Kelly June 19, 2012, 1:12 pm

    My dad is the most amazing person in the world. He’s been one of my best friends and my greatest support for 26 years 🙂

  • Kate June 19, 2012, 1:12 pm

    My husband.
    He is kind, genuine, funny, and beautiful inside and out. He truly is my best friend.

  • Megan June 19, 2012, 1:17 pm

    My best friend Dan is one of the most beautiful, amazing, kind-hearted people in the world. I’m so incredibly blessed to have him in my life. I recently moved to a new city (or, well, an old city, seeing as I lived here before), and he stayed behind, and I’m just baffled at how I ever made it before without him. We quite literally met on a busy street at random, and were best friends ever since. There has NEVER been a moment when he’s ever let me down or ever doubted me for a moment. I am so incredibly blessed to have his amazing, generous, loving spirit in my life!

  • Anu June 19, 2012, 1:19 pm

    My Mom is the most amazing person I know – such an inspiration and beautiful inside and out!

  • Kristin@CelebratetheGoodness June 19, 2012, 1:23 pm

    Happy Birthday Operation Beautiful! How exciting! I’m so glad to see how much this movement has grown and how great ideas continue to emerge from it! I would like to give a ‘shout out’ to my old counselor, Michelle. She stuck with me for years as I battled through an eating disorder and depression and she was the one who helped me choose the path of recovery, which I’ve now been in for over 5 years. Without her ongoing support, encouragement and advice, I never would have made it this far. Even though I no longer see her as a patient the lessons she taught me and the wisdom she offered still carry with me to this day.

  • Daisy June 19, 2012, 1:23 pm

    The most amazing person I know is my grandma. Hands down, she is the most selfless person I know and it’s wonderful knowing she is always there for me! Congrats on your OB anniversary, it’s a great idea! It’s just started to catch on in the UK.. It’s funny seeing post it’s and thinking, ooooh, Caitlin would love this!

  • Mandy June 19, 2012, 1:37 pm

    My mom is pretty darn amazing! She is always thinking about others and even though she went through cancer and divorce in the same year she never wants anyones pity.

  • Laura June 19, 2012, 1:37 pm

    My brother is amazing. He graduated on Sunday with his master’s degree, and in April he completed his first half-marathon. As children we fought a lot, but now he is one of my closest friends.

    P.S. Happy 3rd birthday Operation Beautiful!

  • sandra June 19, 2012, 1:37 pm

    At my first job post-college, I was blessed to have the best manager/mentor ever. By example, she taught me that the joy of running doesn’t involve comparisons, to believe that I can do what I set my mind to, and that it’s important to take care of myself. She also showed me that it’s ok to have my own career ambitions. She still invests in me, even though we have both moved on to other jobs.

  • Anna June 19, 2012, 1:48 pm

    The most amazing person in my life is my Mother, Marie. She has the best heart and is completely selfless.

    She had one of the hardest lives growing up and she never let that stop her from changing her fate. She worked hard and pushed hard and never gave up.

    She has instilled some of the best morals in my and my sister. I see bits of her in myself and I strive everyday to become half the woman she is.

    Love my mom with my whole heart. <3

  • jen June 19, 2012, 1:57 pm

    Caitlin YOU are the amazing person i have the pleasure of “knowing”. <3

  • Jenn June 19, 2012, 2:04 pm

    My jr. high Sunday School teacher-Rita-always comes to mind when am asked “who has influenced me.” She was an amazing teacher and friend and encouraged us girls so much!

  • Leah June 19, 2012, 2:09 pm

    My oldest sister. She knows me better than I know myself and is filled internally with so much optimism and beauty on so many levels. Truly inspiring, as is Operation Beautiful 🙂

  • Kate June 19, 2012, 2:14 pm

    It’s hard to choose just one, but I feel compelled to write about my dad. When I was eight, he was diagnosed with a rare genetic eye disorder that has caused him to gradually loose his vision. He was always extremely active (college soccer player, backpacking enthusiast, skier). As his vision got worse, he had to give up a lot of the activities he loved – but he quickly replaced them with new ones (like beach walking!) Though he’s gone through some rough times, especially when he first had to accept that he may one day completely lose his vision and much of his independence, his positivity has been an inspiration to me. Whenever I encounter an obstacle in my daily life, I think of how brave and positive my dad is – and it makes whatever I’m trying to tackle seem much more doable!

  • Jamie @ StudioEats June 19, 2012, 2:17 pm

    Wow I can’t believe it has been 3 years. My mom is one of the most amazing people I know. She is beautiful, humble, always puts everyone else first, never needs the spotlight on her and is full of pure love.

  • Casey June 19, 2012, 2:20 pm

    My friend Bonnie is such a wonderful person. She’s always full of encouragement and never needs to be the center of attention—she just loves others!

  • Jessica June 19, 2012, 2:22 pm

    My sister! She is so caring and encouraging.

  • Valerie B June 19, 2012, 2:24 pm

    My husband continually remains me that I am beautiful inside and out, a message I sometimes have trouble telling myself.

  • Meshell June 19, 2012, 2:26 pm

    I feel a little like cheating since the most amazing person I ever met I got to know these past few months. Me. I have always hidden that secret away from others, afraid they would call me a narcissist or worse for believing I am worth something. Through lots of work and fearlessly walking into the darkness of soul growth, I have come to realize that those were ingrained thought patterns, and I can change them simply by putting more loving, moving messages out there for myself and others. Not only do I affect the women (and men) who view the message, but I deeply affect myself, recreating thought patterns.

    Operationbeautiful has always inspired me, and each one of those beautiful notes felt like it was written to me. Thank you for your work, thank those who have left a note, and I especially thank myself for creating space to see my own countenance shine upon me.

  • Padma June 19, 2012, 2:27 pm

    My brother! No words can describe all the sacrifices he has made and all that he has gone through. He’s simply…amazing! And one the best brother and a friend a sister can ask for!

  • Lindsay @ Trial By Sapphire June 19, 2012, 2:50 pm

    Happy birthday to Operation Beautiful!

    Someone who will always be a beautiful person is my dad. I know, I know. Men aren’t usually labeled as “beautiful,” but I’m talking about his spirit. He has seen me through some really low times (Caitlin, you and I share a similar “rough patch”), and he has cheered me through milestones AND just regular ol’ days. I’ve learned so much about the parent I want to be from him (and my mom, of course)! A goof ball, a rational thinker, a go-getter, a family man, a dedicated worker, an involved parent, a loving person.

    My dad is an amazing person!

  • Alyssa @ Don't Look Down June 19, 2012, 2:50 pm

    What an achievement! One of the amazing people in my life is my grandpa. He is 92 years old and this weekend was still playing games out in the yard, like kickball, with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. It is a pleasure to know him. The other weekend while I was visiting after his birthday he was telling me how much he appreciated all the calls on his birthday and then he told me “I just want you to know how much I and we appreciate you”. We were there to celebrate him and he was thinking of me. It made me tear up and I kept thinking about how selfless he was.

  • Claire K June 19, 2012, 3:03 pm

    My sister has made a 100% turnaround in the past 3 years. She struggled with her identity and rebeled against my mom and I. She just successfully graduated college with a BS in nursing, has an amazing boyfriend, and is finally my best friend again. I would love for her to receive one of your operation beautiful books. It would be the cherry on top!

  • Soniathe Mexigarian June 19, 2012, 3:14 pm

    Mi Madre. She is one of the most amazing people I know (besides my Papa). She is unbeliveably patient and supportive of not just me, but my sisters and the rest of the familia. She offers her advice, her time and energy (even when sick or injured) she is there. She is my number supportor when it comes to my art and writing (other than Eric). And when the going gets tough, she is right there. I love my mom so very much.

  • Gloria June 19, 2012, 3:15 pm

    An amazing person in my life is my little sister through Big Brothers Big Sisters. I met her when she was 9 and this summer she’ll be turning 14! She has a lot of obstacles in her life, but she continues to surprise me and I’m so proud of the young lady that she is becoming. We joke around and talk about everything under the sun, but we also have a lot of serious conversations and she has such a great perspective and positive attitude that makes me so glad to know her. She is truly amazing and if I win I will gladly give her the teen book, as I already have the adult one 🙂

  • Cellabella June 19, 2012, 3:15 pm

    You’ve done an amazing job with Operation Beautiful, HTP, and as an overall role model and inspiration. You don’t need to include me in the giveaway because I know so many other people want your book and would greatly benefit from it. I just wanted to write a thank you for all the love you put into your projects – Henry is lucky to have you as a mother 🙂

  • Becca June 19, 2012, 3:21 pm

    My thesis advisor! She is a kind, encouraging woman who just radiates joy and light…a truly awesome role model!

  • Stepahnie June 19, 2012, 3:34 pm

    I am sure this is supposed to be a post about a woman, but I had the pleasure to know my Grandfather. He passed away on Thursday and I will be forever greatful that he was in my life. He told me every time he saw me that he was proud of me and gave me a hug. He was 78 years young.

  • Erin June 19, 2012, 3:35 pm

    My boyfriend is definitely an amazing person and a positive influence in my life. He has been through so much, yet he has such an optimistic view on life. He is super supportive of me and has helped me to become an optimist too!

    By the way, I love that idea for a “take one” OB note. I might borrow that idea! 🙂

  • Sarah June 19, 2012, 3:43 pm

    I just love everything about this movement. One of my friends is simply amazing to me because she came home pregnant to the US last year while her fiance was still in Africa waiting for his immigration paperwork to come through. She has since had the baby and he is now 5 months old and has yet to meet his dad. Dad will be here in 3 weeks though! My friend has done an incredible job going through her pregnancy and 5 months of being a single mama. She’s so inspiring to me.

  • K @ Finding a skinnier me June 19, 2012, 3:51 pm

    Happy Birthday OB!!! It is truly an amazing site 🙂

    My mom. Since I was a kid my mom has been building my self esteem and encouraging me to follow my dreams. She also knows how to give a good dose of reality check and she is always honest with me. I still run to her when I am confused or lost. I still go over once a week or every other week to have dinner with her. She truly inspires me to be healthier and to take care of myself.

    I would love LOVE love to read the adult book!!!

  • Kara June 19, 2012, 3:56 pm

    I must admit, at first I was skeptical about this movement. However, I work with a lot of young girls (I’m in education) and it is so disheartening to hear the way they talk about themselves and each other. Small acts of kindness to yourself and others can go a long way, so I always encourage them to leave themselves little OB-like notes. So, I’d say, the middle school girls I work with at my school are amazing. There are too many to describe, but whenever I’m with them, I think of all the amazing things going on for them now and the things to come!

  • Ranya June 19, 2012, 4:00 pm

    My roommate is an amazing person! She is so creative and such an amazing friend. I won’t see her for six months because we are both studying abroad in different places but I can’t wait to reunite with her and share all of our stories!

  • Ilene June 19, 2012, 4:04 pm

    I would have to say my little sister, who is there for me 24/7 and is my best friend.

  • katelyn elisabeth June 19, 2012, 4:29 pm

    my mom, hands down. she makes every day easier, happier, all around better. she’s the woman i want to be–the mother, the sister, the friend, the wife that will be a role model to aspire to for the rest of my life.

  • Kelsey June 19, 2012, 5:12 pm

    I have the pleasure of knowing MYSELF! I was recently cheated on and dumped a few months ago and I am so proud of myself for not letting it get me (too) down… went on a spontaneous trip to HAWAII and now I am training for a marathon! Wooo.

  • Kate June 19, 2012, 5:20 pm

    My sister, Sheila, is a beautiful and amazing woman. She is on her way to Africa right now to help develop and support nurses. She does this in Haiti too. I am so proud of my beautiful little sister.

  • Natalie June 19, 2012, 5:28 pm

    My sister- she is truly strong, confident, and compassionate. She is my ultimate role model and best friend.

  • Sophie @ threetimesf June 19, 2012, 5:32 pm

    My mum is the most amazing person I know. It sounds so cliched but she’s always there for me, always knows the right thing to say, and has her own unique way of helping me work through things and coming to a sensible conclusion without even realising that I worked it out myself! Love her 🙂

  • Michele June 19, 2012, 5:44 pm

    My coworker Sandi is an amazing person!!! She is so patient and kind with every person that she comes in contact with. She has taught me everything that I needed to know to handle the special education paperwork aspect of my job…but she also helped me grow and live day to day. I don’t know what I would do without her in my life!

  • Maggie June 19, 2012, 5:45 pm

    My grandmother was amazing…she taught me so much about personal and financial independence.

  • R June 19, 2012, 6:10 pm

    I would have to say my 13 year old daughter. She is everything I wish I would have been at her age, True to herself, strong, determined and amazing!!!
    On a side note I went to our local library today (charlotte) and your new book was on the shelf. I was so excited they had it! I checked it out! Can’t wait to read it!!!

  • Lara F. June 19, 2012, 6:11 pm

    My parents. They’ve grown me up to become the woman I am today, and they are two of the most inspirational people I know.

  • Becky June 19, 2012, 6:39 pm

    Although I struggle with thoughts of self doubt each and every day I am amazed by the person that I am becoming. I am so much stronger than I ever thought was possible!

  • sarah r. June 19, 2012, 7:08 pm

    the most amazing person i know is my best friend tiffany. she can make anyone see the positive side to ANYTHING.

  • Cass June 19, 2012, 7:15 pm

    My great aunt! She is an amazing woman who is in her mid 90’s, but she is still a spitfire 🙂 She helped me get through both good times and bad and is someone I am happy to consider one of the most important people in my life.

  • Jolene (www.everydayfoodie.ca) June 19, 2012, 7:17 pm

    The amazing person I know is my mom. She has MS and is bedridden in a home at the age of 56, yet I have never heard her complain or get down on herself. She is the strongest person I know.

  • Julia H. @ Going Gulia June 19, 2012, 7:18 pm

    Seriously, thank you for Operation Beautiful. It helped me get through a tough time of eating issues a few years ago, and ever since then I’ve kept up with leaving positive post-it notes all over my college campus (though I never remember to submit the photos to the site!). Once, I put a post-it on the scale in the campus gym and it stayed on there for 2 months 🙂

  • Laura June 19, 2012, 7:20 pm

    My husband–he is the most patient, loving person I’ve ever met. He’s kind to everyone, from strangers to his co-workers to his customers. He’s a ray of sunshine (except when he’s grumpy, then he’s partially cloudy :)).

  • Louise June 19, 2012, 7:27 pm

    My BFF, Debbie. She always has a smile on her face and brings
    joy to every single person who is fortunate to know her!

  • Amber June 19, 2012, 7:30 pm

    My mom is the kindest person I know. She goes out of her way to make people happy and always puts others first.

  • Megan June 19, 2012, 7:41 pm

    My wonderful sister and mom!!

  • Emily B June 19, 2012, 7:47 pm

    I know you said “person” but my cat Wilson became fully blind when a car hit him face on in our driveway. He spent 3 weeks in the animal hospital and the vets and nurses absolutely loved him because despite the fact he couldn’t see he was still so happy and affectionate and still is to this day:) Just goes to show you can still be happy, content and loving life with a disability.

  • Amanda @ Diary of a Semi-Health Nut June 19, 2012, 7:51 pm

    I am so happy I found the BF. He is always happy and laid back and can make me laugh at the drop of a hat! Perfect for my overly-worrisome-tense self. 😉

    Also, I tried to click the link to your Operation Beautiful page and it didn’t work…

  • Emily June 19, 2012, 8:33 pm

    My roommate and best friend, Dani, is so confident, intelligent, courageous, and of course, beautiful. I am so lucky to be inspired by her every day.

  • Heather June 19, 2012, 8:49 pm

    My Granny is by far the most amazing person in the world !!! She has always made me feel that I was perfect … No matter what 🙂

  • Christina June 19, 2012, 8:50 pm

    My amazing person is my husband. We’ve been married 5 years and in that time we have struggled with infertility, the birth of our daughter, the death of both my parents 7 weeks apart, and the birth of our second daughter. Through all of it he has kept positive, supported me and most importantly made me laugh every single day.

  • Kim June 19, 2012, 9:04 pm

    My aunt, who battled bulimia and was one of few people I could confide in about my anorexia. She has made huge efforts to make sure she sends the most body-positive messages possible to her two daughters (now 10 and 12), both in facilitating their healthy body images but also working on her own because she doesn’t want them to pick up on her disordered past. She’s such a badass.

  • Lindsay June 19, 2012, 9:12 pm

    My sister is such an encouragement in my life. If ever, and whenever, I’m feeling down, I can call her up and she puts everything in perspective and always calms me down. Even though she lives 20 hours away from me, she is still my best friend!

  • Katie M June 19, 2012, 9:18 pm

    My encourager is my younger sister. She’s smart and beautiful and so so positive! She’s my inspiration!

  • Lindsey June 19, 2012, 9:39 pm

    My grandmother is an amazing person. She has overcome many obstacles in her life like beating breast cancer twice! She is my hero!

  • Erika June 19, 2012, 9:43 pm

    My fiance is one of the most amazing people I know and most supportive. He has seen me through some serious rough patches and always always makes me feel beautiful and loved no matter how I personally feel about myself. He is a blessing and I am so thankful to share life with him….Congrats on your 3year birthday OB!!!

  • Teresa June 19, 2012, 9:49 pm

    The most amazing person I know is my mom’s friend. She’s always positive and tries to see the best in situations. She’s funny, but very humble.

  • Katie R June 19, 2012, 10:16 pm

    My Mom is pretty incredible. Despite dealing with Diabetes since she was 11, she is active, upbeat, and a great role model for moderation/indulgence/nutrition.

  • Kate June 19, 2012, 10:54 pm

    My baby sister is great. She is 18 & finding her place in this world. She really needs Operation Beautiful.

  • Mac June 19, 2012, 11:13 pm

    My friend Lisa who is the director of the camp I’m working right now, WYSP. It is a sport program that is free, she helps hundreds of underprivelaged children. She is the reason the program hasn’t been shut down due to funding….I would love to win a copy to give to her to use as a drawing for one of the kids at camp!

  • Seema June 19, 2012, 11:25 pm

    Hi! I just started reading HTP and I’m loving it so far 🙂 It’s my own good fortune that I started reading when Baby HTP aka H came into the picture – the pics of him are wonderful and I truly enjoy your conversational and honest style.

    My boss is a truly inspirational person. She constantly reminds me why I want to go into the field of dentistry by not only running a successful practice but by giving back to the community. She just returned from a mission trip to the Dominican Republic and is already planning her next venture!

  • Tiffany Morgan June 19, 2012, 11:34 pm

    The most amazing person I know is my mom. She’s always so supportive of all that I do and I don’t know where I would be without her.

  • Amy June 20, 2012, 2:36 am

    My husband! (I know it sounds cheesy, but he really is amazing!)

  • Tonia June 20, 2012, 8:04 am

    I have so many amazing women in my life: my mother, my grandmother, my 2 girls. I spend every day trying to be the mother that my girls can call amazing too! I would love to get a copy of the teen book for them.

  • Alison June 20, 2012, 8:32 am

    Too Many amazing women in my life but today the most amazing women I know is my mother in law. With a tone of challenges/negative things in her life…she approaches everything with grace, dignity and a positive spirit… Keeping my husband and I in her thoughts despite living a 12 hour drive away. She continues to learn, takes time for herself and has undying love for her family. If I can be half as great as her when I’m a mother I will be luck.

  • Irina @ Chocolatea Time June 20, 2012, 8:53 am

    My mom is truly an amazing person. She’s always there for my sister and I and doesn’t think twice about doing anything and everything for us. An inspiration for me!

  • Anne Kendall June 20, 2012, 9:38 am

    I don’t know how to choose just one beautiful person in my life, so I’ll recount the first time I saw an Operation Beautiful note. I had only been reading your blog for a short time, and you’d only alluded to O.B. or your other blog once or twice. I wasn’t really sure what Operation Beautiful was, but when I saw that bright little Post-It taped to the restroom mirror at my college, I was so surprised that I said out loud, “Oh my gosh! This is like that blog!” I was inspired by the note and by its underlying message, so I snapped a picture. The memory of discovering that little note and making the connection will stay with me far longer than the photo I took. Thanks for the inspiration!

  • Jolene (Homespun Heritage) June 20, 2012, 3:04 pm

    My dear friend, Becky, who lives a few hours south of me…she has 8 amazing children. Her youngest child was born with special needs and she has been an outspoken advocate for all her children, especially her littlest one! She has taught me so much about how to handle life when it throws rocks at you and how to just roll with things…and surround yourself with only people who love you and will build you up!

  • Jen June 20, 2012, 4:06 pm

    My mom is the most amazing person I know. She has raised 3 children and has helped us all through many difficult times. She is my best friend and someone that makes everyone feel beautiful.

  • Nikki June 20, 2012, 5:41 pm

    My best friend Melissa is the best person in the world. Her Neverending childlike soul makes her so great to be around. She is humorous and so totally different than me that we fit like two puzzle pieces!

  • ChattyNatty June 20, 2012, 10:38 pm

    My mother in-law is one of the most beautiful people I know. I’m very lucky to have her in my life.

  • Alex @ Raw Recovery June 20, 2012, 11:21 pm

    The awesome person in my life is my current therapist, who is also recovered from anorexia and has helped me continue in my recovery and journey to living a happy, healthy life and one in which I love myself. She’s my real life angel.

  • Meredith June 21, 2012, 2:30 pm

    I am fortunate to have a gaggle of amazing people in my life, from my parents who gave us a spectacularly middle class but exciting childhood and continue to offer fun experiences to my kids, to my sister the independent-minded, life-loving advocate for battered women; from my life-long friends to those I’ve recently met, all of whom make me a better person everyday.

  • Ashley June 21, 2012, 2:55 pm

    Happy Birthday to Operation Beautiful! A person I have had the pleasure of knowing is one of my former supervisors. She was incredible on a personal level and also taught me so much during my position. I couldn’t be more grateful for the things I have learned from her.

  • Amanda June 21, 2012, 3:33 pm

    The most amazing person in my life is definitely my mom. She is my number one supporter!

  • Rebecca June 21, 2012, 3:41 pm

    My mom is amazing! She has always been there for me!

  • Rebecca June 21, 2012, 3:42 pm

    The most amazing person I know is my mom. She is the one person I know who will always be there for me and never let me down. Her care, love and support go unmatched by anyone. She has helped me and listened to me through all of my life’s difficulties.

  • Pearson Smith June 21, 2012, 3:48 pm

    I can’t thank enough, a therapist who has helped me through the passed year and half, make aware and acknowledge the person that I am and appreciate her at the same time. Along with her help, my battle with food is slowly turning into a friendship!

  • Sarah June 21, 2012, 4:05 pm

    My small group leader Jackie! I honestly would be so lost without her!

  • Rachel June 21, 2012, 4:41 pm

    My wonderful fiancé who means the world to me!

  • jessica June 21, 2012, 4:55 pm

    One of the most amazing people in my life is my mom – we’re best friends and i don’t know what i would do without her! also, congratulations to three exciting years of beautiful! 🙂

  • Carol B June 21, 2012, 4:56 pm

    The most amazing person I know is my Mom!! I am a single parent of two grown children. My son was diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome at the age of 5. Having my Mom allow us to move back home and help me parent my children has been amazing. My son went to school and then got to go home. As a baby, I never had to leave him in day care because my Mom was always there. She turned 79 this year,and I appreciate her more now than I ever have!

  • Madison @ Pilates Makes You Happy June 21, 2012, 5:18 pm

    My mom is the most beautiful person I know. On the outside, she has always been beautiful. However- the times that she has been the most beautiful to me is when she wouldn’t think she was “outwardly” beautiful, the times when she lets me wake her up in the middle of the night because I’m stressed over something. Or the times when she has been sick and bedridden, but keeps going and keeps encouraging me. She has shown me what it is to be beautiful. And it’s not what’s on the outside that counts.

  • Shannon June 21, 2012, 6:42 pm

    My mom is the most amazing person I know! She is always positive and optimistic and can always turn my frown upside-down. She loves to help people and puts everyone else’s needs ahead of her own. She is the best!

  • Katrina Page June 21, 2012, 6:52 pm

    My Grandma was the most beautiful person I’ve ever had the pleasure of knowing. She was so smart, so kind and so given to God. She was the biggest inspiration to me. She was taken from us by cancer a few years ago, and it’s been hard. I’ve seen her family fall apart, and it’s just so sad to see. She was an amazing person and her memory deserves to be honored.

  • hilary June 21, 2012, 7:08 pm

    Operation beautiful has helped me discover how amazing I am. It has taken a long long time but after struggling for many years, I am finally realizing that I am beautiful! I have never felt so good about myself. Having an eating disorder destroys you, but now I wake up every morning and complement myself before I start my day. For instance I ran 10 miles the other day and was thanking my feet and legs. It may sound so silly, but it makes me realize how great I really am. My mirror is also covered in post it notes!! 🙂

  • jen June 21, 2012, 7:20 pm

    my sister julie is the most amazing person i know. she is an amazing listener, no matter when i need her she is 100% there for me. she is giving , nurturing, and just the absolute most beautiful person i have ever known. im so proud to call her my sister, proud and LUCKY

  • Abby June 21, 2012, 7:25 pm

    My twin Paige is the most amazing person I know. She is so pretty and smart and charming and has the loveliest personality that I’ve had the honor of coming in contact with. She’s amazing at soccer but is relatively modest about it. She is great. I would love the original book. 🙂

  • Gina June 21, 2012, 8:14 pm

    Mine is my sister. I would love the teen/tween book

  • Kerri June 22, 2012, 2:28 am

    How can I pick just one! My mom and grandma are incredibly awesome. My grandma will be 83 next week, but she doesn’t look a day over 75! Whoohoo!

  • Luna June 22, 2012, 5:37 am

    I am blessed by having a wonderful mom and a wonderful husband in my life.

  • Lissa June 22, 2012, 9:55 am

    My mom is absolutely amazing! She has birthed & raised 6 children…and we’ve all turned out pretty good because of her dedication & perseverance. <3 & admire her!

  • Christie M. June 22, 2012, 2:12 pm

    A co-worker and housemate taught me a lot about the joy of being true to yourself. Her security, confidence, and love of challenging herself is beautiful. She inspires me to try new athletic feats and to be bold!

  • Lexi @ You, Me, & A World to See June 23, 2012, 3:07 pm

    You are beautiful. Never forget that 🙂

    Best advice my mom ever gave me!

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