Should Moms Be Allowed to Wear Bikinis?

Bikini mom, here -- and proud!Hello! My family and I just got back from Bradley Beach, NJ where both my mom and uncle live a block from the ocean-winning! I am so tan, my dermatologist is going to murder me! Anyway, I had an awkward moment this weekend. My toddler son, JD, rolled his eyes at me and said, "Mom, you're wearing your underwear to the beach!" when I pulled my coverup dress over my head. A lady near us snorted loud with laughter. Yipes!

To my defense I was wearing a bikini and yes it was small, but it's not like I was wearing a thong or on a topless beach in Mexico for Christ's sake. I'll let you in on a little secret: Since having JD, I've been the most comfy in my skin. [Hi, I'm posting a bikini pic on the Internet!] Prior, I was a habitual dieter, constantly weighed myself and always agonized about what I ate-or didn't eat, ahem. These days, I feel great-cellulite on the back of my legs and lower belly pouch and all! My body is rad. It was JD's home for 9 months. My spine has rods attached to it. I have a scar that runs from my neck to my hips. I have a small C-section scar, too. My body has been through hell and back, and it survived. I'm showing it off.

Related: 25 flattering (and sexy!) swimsuits under $100

Maybe I didn't get the memo, but I wasn't aware moms couldn't wear bikinis. This is certainly the first time JD has noticed and we're a good five summers in of this bikini-wearing. I have two tankinis: a Tommy Bahama orange number and a bright blue Juicy Couture one. They're OK, but I'm still into my bikinis and I say, if I'm comfy in 'em-wear 'em! I mean, I saw a woman older than my mom (my mom is 63) in a purple string bikini this weekend. It was smaller than mine! I didn't think anything of it and in fact, I found it entertaining. In my head, I was like, You go grandma!! Work it!!

Related: 10 ways to fake a sun-kissed glow

After JD made his remark I started surveying the beach. I saw moms my age in bikinis, tankinis and really cute strapless one-pieces. It was 100 degrees on the beach and everyone was trying to wear as little as possible, me included. But, I couldn't help but wonder if I was … embarrassing JD with my tiny green number. He got over it once he joined his beach friends, but I'm wondering if I need to reel it in. Do moms need to be less sexy on the beach? As a single woman, I'd be lying if I said I wasn't trying to get attention.

So tell me mamas, what kind of bathing suit do you wear? Do your kiddos comment? Share!

- By Christine Coppa
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