While there are some people who have always had effortless style and their faces always remained perfect from birth through to death, the rest of us, at one point or another experienced what is called an Awkward Phase.

If this phase lasts too long it can be detrimental in how one views themselves. What’s that all about? Not because of what they look like, but because of the fact that a lot of kids are giant a-holes who often are ruthless bullies that are disguised as sweet little angles. That said, in looking back at pictures, I kind of understand why I was targeted by said bullies. Because, guys, I was fabulous. And fabulous is scary to unfabulous people.

It took me a long time to overcome the torture I endured as a child, to the point that it followed me up until my 20’s. But then, one magical day, I looked in the mirror and I realized that I was in fact beautiful. And my life has been incredible ever since. A little confidence goes a long way.

I have also gained the ablity to laugh at myself instead of crying. Because it’s funny to look back at pictures of yourself from the 80’s-90’s. I can’t be the only one who looked like Napoleon Dynamite’s girlfriend? Right? Come on guys – it was a terrible era for all of us. Just admit it.

So without further ado, here are some of the most 1980s and 90s pictures of all time:

In this one, please look closely at my dirty chin. Yes, the teacher let me go to get my Jostens picture taken with a dirty face.

No, that’s not a mullet. It’s just a crazy half up hair style. Looks like my teeth are starting to come in. Phew.

This one’s not so bad. Minus how sickly I look.

Here we have bangs that took over an hour to do. Should have permed my bangs like the lucky girls in the early 90’s. And, this epic-side-ponytail held up with a scrunchy is not too shabby if I do say so myself. I’m pretty sure this picture inspired Deb Bradshaw’s character. 

It looks like I’m doing everything I can to hold in a toot here.

Thank god for grade 7. This year changed my life.

There you go…here came high school – before I cut my hair way to short for my face.

So, I’ll see your ugly duckling and I’ll raise you a swan. Take that grade school bullies. The Awkward Phase, while horrible, made me funny because I couldn’t bank on my looks. And for that, I’m very appreciative.