I’m so tired even my skin feels tired! It’s the end of the year where we start to wind up some things and at the same time amp up in other areas. It’s the end of the year and it feels like everything is going a little crazy and haywire. Are you feeling it too?
Look, I lead a pretty blessed life and absolutely love my blog lifestyle so don’t feel sorry for me…but life catches up with us all! When I get ‘this’ tired I also get worried.
I get worried about what my body is ‘really’ telling me. When our bodies are tired and aches n pains set in then we need to listen.
Today I’ve spent the whole day on the couch, my mind and body are spent and I’m struggling with online and offline bullying. I gotta say, it’s been a crappy day and I started to stew in that crappiness so figured I needed to write. You know, get it out, get my thoughts straight and find the things that ‘do’ make it all worthwhile.
I’ve had a fabulous year, soooo much to learn and take in and a few changes of direction. I headed off to a blogging conference to learn more and I’ve made some wonderful friends in bloggy land. My blog has grown, I’m working with fabulous clients, I started a newsletter and kinda made friends with technology. Tick, tick, tickety tick 🙂
Not everything is perfect in bloggy land though. A few trolls felt the need to enlighten me, telling me when I was fat (all the time, der!), when they didn’t like my style and then there was the night one said she would come around and cut off my ‘ugly tits’.
Uhuh, I know! There were a few shit comments and some idle gossip by others, then there’s those who are more about exclusion rather than inclusion…boy do those people have some life lessons to learn. To those people I say ‘fuck directly off’. Yep, you heard me…and don’t let the door hit you on the arse!
You see, if I’m not hurting you, if you haven’t seen it or heard it first hand then just go about your ‘own’ life and leave me the heck alone. Right, now I’m done with the ugly let’s get onto the good 🙂
I’ve had a massive year, there’s been surgeries and health milestones. My boobs are finished AND I have nipples! I’m now two years post cancer treatment, which means two years ‘clear’. BAM! Take ‘that’ cancer!
My boys are growing up. There’s girlfriends and cars and more hugs. Oh the hugs aren’t just for the girlfriends, the boys are maturing and they’ve come full circle. Yup, there’s no more grunting but ‘actual’ words, smiles and hugs (for me). Me likey
I’ve collaborated with wonderful people over the past 12 months, people who are accepting and grateful. I’ve designed a tee and a silver cuff, I’ve even done public speaking and a workshop. All of these added joy and personal growth to my work life.
When brands approach and want to collaborate, I want it to ‘feel’ good and I want it to benefit my community (that’s you), so if all my criteria is ticked off then I say ‘yes’ and wonderful things happen. Truly awesome things.
I’ve nurtured a few online communities, one on Styling Curvy (on Facebook and Instagram) and the closed group in Body Loving Babes. These communities continue to grow, not just in numbers but in confidence, and most definitely in the ‘style stakes’. You guys are my happy place, being able to merge business with pleasure is the holy grail in work life and I’m blessed to have that.
While there’s those who just don’t ‘get’ me and want me to fade out there’s all of you who accept me just the way I am (thanks for that). Some of you visit and read for ‘style tips’, others for ‘body image confidence’ or to travel the ‘cancer journey’ with me. You’re all part of the Styling Curvy community for different reasons but what I love is that you all show tolerance, acceptance, care and you have a bloody good sense of humour.
I don’t take myself too seriously, of course I don’t know everything but what I do know I’m more than happy to share with all of you. I’m a sharer and don’t censor my life for social media. I’ve written about life, death, love, sexual abuse, cancer, family, food, flowers, friends, childhood, parenthood and so much more.
The best bit? Well, the best bit is you all allow me to pop up in your lives every single day and be a part of your world. I get to write what I want, when I want…even with colourful words.
Thanks for that ?
How’s your year been?
I think you are brave, always beautiful and inspire me to stop sweating the small stuff and enjoy every day.
Thankyou Ann x
Me too, Anne. X
Jen my life has been good as you know 6 months okay we moved home after being in our house for 18 years.. We found a beautiful home in Fulham Gardens and couldn’t be happier. My oldest James started high school which I found hard to accept he is growing up before my eyes. He gives me grief with attitude but I’m learning to let go and be his consultant rather than his manager. As learnt by attending the Oprah Winfrey last week. I found the confidence to get a wardrobe audit with you and it was the best thing i ever did. I dress different and feel so good about myself and have more spring in my step. I have made a lovely friend in you and will be forever grateful for Facebook. My year overall I have loved and look forward to what 2016 will come at me. Love ya Jem. Thanks for a great year xxxx
Jane you have an awesome attitude that’s infectious.light n love to you lady x
Thanks for sharing Jen! This time of year is crazy! Good on you for taking time out . You so deserve it. I love reading your daily posts and they always bring a smile to my dial! All the best for the days leading up to Christmas and may you have a blessed and restful family Christmas and New year!
I’m looking forward to it Janet? Merry Christmas to you too x
Women need to support each other! If you have noithing nice to say, say noithing at all.
Tomorrow will be a better day Jenni.
Spot on Amanda xx
Ha! I agree with “Fuck directly off” – yes indeedy. There’s nothing worthwhile to be gained from entertaining those people and their shitstorms of negativity. Not a thing.
Great reflection Jenni xxxx
Thankyou for caring Annette x
You’re amazing Jenni. An inspiration to us curvy ladies, cancer thrivers, mums and women. xxx
Girls have gotta stick together Darlene x
I have had an up and down year too, but every bit of knowing you has been fabulous x
Liz you’re a bright light, always beaming love xx
“Fuck directly off” – I am stealing this as my mantra for 2016 ?? Thank you Jenni – you are a treasure and legend !
Haha Sandra, let’s hope you don’t need to use it too often…but if you do, use it with enthusiasm ??
I know believe that I am free of cancer, any more CT’s or MRI’s & I will be glowing, cancer can fuck right off, I’m sick of thinking is that cancer is it back somewhere else, so I made the decision a month ago to let it go to put it behind me, yes I’ve had that experience but it will no longer dictate my life. Babe some people are just wankers we all know that, I don’t know what it’s like to have keyboard warriors abusing or threatening you but I believe you have the right attitude. You are you if they don’t like that then like you said don’t read or engage with you. Some humans are scum ! I hope I’m never scum. X
You ne er could be Paula! I’m so proud of you for changing your attitude and having a positive outlook about your life…your body will feel that and respond lovingly X
Hi Jenni I hate to hear that there’s all that negativity out there! I completely understand the body aches and pains & well done on 2 years clear – I’m the same & loving it – although I am still struggling to embrace this new body of mine. Extra weight, new breast – it’s still all very surreal. The best part is we’re still here & I get to enjoy my teenage girls as you do with your boys! Have a wonderful Christmas and New Year.
Andi xx
Andi isn’t it gift…an even bigger gift is being grateful ? Good for you x
God Jenn…I’m bloody gobsmacked! Trolls? I just can’t believe that people have behaved that way towards you, I’m mightily pissed off. You’re obviously too much incredible for those inbred morons! It’s been a hell of a year..after the big c reeked havoc on me physically and emotionally we then got in a wrangle with the bank who were planning on taking our home! Not completely out of the woods yet but I’m fighting on my feet! Keep sharing the beauty that is you. You make an incredible difference to people like me EVERY SINGLE DAY. And I’m sorry, you’re NOT fat…I’ll send you a pic of me!! Love your guts xxx
Oh gosh I hope you kick the banks arse X
Darling,Spunky , Inspiring Jen- Life throws us all on paths that we may never imagine. I bless you for sharing yours, and won’t bore you with mine (suffice to say it has also been difficult) But, do not forget, or miss the fact that you are changing lives. Let me repeat that (because it’s important!) YOU ARE CHANGING LIVES. Sometimes you need time out . Today, I ordered three (yes THREE!) dresses on line BECAUSE of you, your blog, your advice and your wisdom. I haven’t worn a dress since my beautiful wedding gown (years ago!!) But YOU have made me feel I can do it. Thank you for that. Be strong. And bring your jolly styling seminar to Brisbane- I need to meet you. You have changed MY life and I will forever be grateful. xx
Three dresses…I love that you have embraced them!! Thankyou for caring and I’m sure I’ll be in brissy next year xx
I really struggle with the capacity that some people have to say such nasty , hurtful things to others. Especially when you have gone through so very much pain in your life already. You are a gorgeous, strong and inspirational woman and I’m really happy I found your blog. I hope that you have a fab Christmas and remember that you are an amazing person ?
Thankyou Anna for caring xx
You have taught me to embrace my curves, although some days I still wish there was less of them, and taught me to dress accordingly. Which hubby is grateful for. I have found you inspiring, and I look for your daily posts, be it about your journey or just your outfit of the day. Thank you for being you. Have a great Christmas and New Year. Xx
Jacqui thanks for joining in and how awesome that hubby is happy too ??
Thank you for what you write. Since May i have had chemo, mastectomy and radiation so everything you have written has helped me work out where i am at and i thank you for that. It’s a time when you are surrounded by so many people wanting to help but at the same time sometimes you don’t know what you want or who you are so being able to read about someones else’s experiences is a great thing. I hope that you and your family have a fantastic Christmas. I am looking forward to spending time with my boys xx
Tracey I’m so pleased that my posts are helping you. Enjoy your boys this Xmas and always xx
Hi Jenni.
First of all I must say… I love your blog n post n snapshots of your life! I cannot believe you have to deal with trolls. Why can’t people just be nice. Nothing wrong with the saying ‘If you have nothing nice to say, don’t say anything at all’
We all have had our ups and downs. I suffered my third miscarriage this year and am still struggling with the sudden passing of my mum in 2013. I suffer from anxiety and depression and have a hard time dealing with life. Yet I am able to remind myself that there are people out there that have it so much worse than me. It is though.
Every year on New Years Eve I ask and pray for a better year ahead. I will be doing this once again… All I want is happiness, health and a happy and healthy baby!
And I wish you the same, except maybe that happy and healthy baby, I’ll keep that wish to myself 🙂
Monique
I have been blessed with two sons, I truly hope your wish comes true too Monique. Xx
I loved reading this. You are inspirational X
Thankyou gorgeous xx
Dear Jen I’m quite a bit older than you I have daughters your age probably I’m 66 but I love your website I think a lot younger I think but I love all that you do I have bought couple of items you have shown which I think are great Please keep doing what you do I’m sure there are thousand that look forward to seeing what you have to say All the best Love Marion ❌❌
Thanks Marion for your encouragement xxx
Thank you gorgeous lady for being you. The vulnerable real you, so many of us aspire to be every day. Loads of love and light.?
Thanks Jane x
Haters gunna hate….
I enjoy being in your community. I don’t always get into the things you post, but I always read and hit like when I think you look fab (which is always) or when you post something that encourages ladies like my mum to f*ck what other people say and feel good about themselves.
Keep up the good work, and keep rocking that smile!!!!
Thanks for always reading Ali, I appreciate that xxx
Can you imagine what type of person would actually go to the trouble to troll another person? Certainly know one I choose to surround myself with and by the sounds of it, neither do you. I love checking in to see your posts and read your words, sounds like you have had quite an exciting year x
It makes me sick Caitlyn, some people are so deceptive and false and then there’s those who troll for fun. Blogging can be wonderful but it also has challenges. I’ve had an amazing year full of brilliant opportunities, I’m so grateful for it all xx
As it always seems to be Jen your post is timely for me. I’ve not been feeling the best and as always late at night when in struggling to sleep I’m convinced there is something horrible wrong. So timely it is, because sometimes I need to be reminded that sometimes a shit day is all it is x
Shit days have a way of seeming scarier than they really are. Hope that feeling passes off quickly for you Sandra xx
You know what? I dont even understand what a troll is or how you become one but if there is a God I reckon he/she is going to give those bitches a big friggin forehead slap just to start the conversation.
Jen you know I love you. Luckily Ive never had cancer and I’d like to keep it that way but your blog has been inspirational, funny and so honest I love reading it. You write the way you speak and knowing you I also know you walk your talk.
My life this year has been a maturing year, a coming into my own on many levels.
Ive learnt though that just because I can doesnt mean I should. Im pretty tough and I can do a lot but these last few weeks has had me feeling like I may have overstepped my limits a little.
Time to go in and time to enjoy and just BE.
My aim to align my thought, words and deeds into one flowing stream of energy through my life.
Namaste beautiful soul.
Let those sad people go. Trolls be gone!
xx
Oh Dani, I love you too lady! You’ve taught me so much (and continue to), sometimes we think our wings are bigger than they actually are and we want to soar before we are ready. Sometimes we actually don’t need to fly at all. Boundaries and limits are always tricky, knowing where and how far to push ourselves. Sometimes we commit because our hearts are big but life can throw us lessons and curveballs, it’s ok to pull back or change direction as long as it serves us.
I’ve taken on and committed to different things this year that perhaps I shouldn’t have, but I had to go through it to know what is and isn’t good for me. Here’s to a wonderful and fulfilling 2016 for both of us xxx
Jen, you are EVERY kind of awesome and don’t you forget it ok xxx
Thankyou gorgeous xx
Agree totally with the fuck off. Sounds like they are jealous of your success to me. Keyboard cowards, I hate them, so bloody nasty. Some of the things I have read, I can’t believe the mentality. I love your blog Jen, always something to learn, be inspired by or just enjoy. I’m tired too, I can’t wait for the Xmas break, still another 7 work days for me, and it’s crazy right up to the end. It feels like this year has just flown past, maybe that’s my age though. I just want to hide at the moment, stay home and sit on the couch. Fighting off depression at the present, anxiety I can handle I have all the tools but bloody depression just seems to bite me without warning. Not listening to my body, like you. Too busy to listen? Take care, Kathryn x
Enjoy your break Kathryn and rest xx
Well Jenni, only just read your blog. Who do these nasty people think they are? (Cruel buggers). Like the rest of your followers, you have given hope,understanding and acceptance of who we are. You have taught myself not to look at the size on clothes,but simply try it on and feel comfortable. You rock with you wonderful honest approach to your life and others. So enjoy your Facebook friends and your gorgeous loving family. I love you daily posts and understand some days you simply need timeout. Love you and keep smiling beautiful lady.????
Maggie, always do lovely…Thankyou xx
i’ll say it again jen! you are one amazing, courageous person!
you are warm, kind hearted, and you have great style and you share lots of good positive ideas!
you look great! you know who you are and I say delete, delete, delete! to anyone who is awful to you!
the best thing is to ignore these people, as they want you to hook in!
give them no energy at all! they are not worth it!
where as you are worth it!
I’ve had a pretty good year on the whole! … just cruisi’n!
I enjoy your blog! much love m:)X
I meant to say too jen,
“keep body and soul together”
look after yourself hun! love m:)X
Thankyou Merilyn, always wonderful to see your comments on the blog xxx,
You are one awesome chick Jen. Bullies can be hard to deal with, I’ve dealt with my fair share, but I do exactly what you’re going to do next year and tell them to “fuck directly off’ 🙂
Let’s hope they do just that
Please ignore the haters Jen! There not worth the wasted energy and attention! I love your blog and the fact that you seem so real and open! You are truly inspirational! For every hater and bully out there, there are hundreds of readers who love your blog! I look forward to following your journey through 2016! All the best! I hope you have a relaxing break over the Christmas and New Year period! Ingrid x
Thanks Ingrid, I think a little break will do me good x
Oh Jenni,
I take my hat off to you, you are so very brave putting yourself out there, but I’m sure I’m not the only one who is so very greatful that you do!
You are keeping it real, and we are so blessed to be able to follow you though the good times and the bad.
As for those ugly trolls, it really does say way more about their head space and how unhappy they are!
You go girl xxxx
Helen
Thanks for your care and support Helen x
You are fabulous Jen, inside and out. Merry Christmas to you and your wonderful family. Xx
MWAH…thanks lovely Beck, merry Christmas xx
I love reading your blog, and love your attitude! Those trolls will get their come uppance one day 🙂 my favourite saying is ‘what goes around, comes around’ ……………… it may take a while, but it will eventually happen 🙂
It always does Cathy…it’s the way of the world xx