It’s Friday. We made it to the end of this completely insane week. I haven’t posted because honestly, I didn’t feel like writing or creating this week. Most of my energy went towards digesting election week and keeping myself straight and grounded for my little family.
I don’t think I can say it any better than I said it four years ago when I wrote this post the day after the 2016 election so I’ll invite you to read those words again or for the first time if you’re a newer follower.
Another reason for my absence this week is that I’ve been struggling with Benji since we moved back in August. He’s having a difficult time adjusting to the new house for whatever reason and really struggling with anxious behavior issues. Things kind of came to a head where I was faced with making some difficult decisions.
I came up with a plan that I feel good about. He is a sweet boy and a good dog and I just really want to see him thrive. <3
As always, running has been one of my most effective tools for managing mental health. There was one day where I was feeling particularly anxious and hammered out my first 10K in quite a while. It was the best feeling thing I did all week.
I’ve shared many times in 2020 how much I’ve resonated with the teachings of Tara Brach and I listened to this podcast episode while I was running. Highly, highly recommend.
In the podcast she shared these words by the poet Rainer Maria Rilke. I found a lot of comfort in it.
“God speaks to each of us as he makes us,
then walks with us silently out of the night.
These are the words we dimly hear:
You, sent out beyond your recall,
go to the limits of your longing.
Embody me.
Flare up like a flame
and make big shadows I can move in.
Let everything happen to you: beauty and terror.
Just keep going. No feeling is final.
Don’t let yourself lose me.
Nearby is the country they call life.
You will know it by its seriousness.
Give me your hand.”
Finally, a couple of updates on the homefront. First, I had a privacy fence installed and I love it! I have a corner lot so it does a lot to help the backyard feel a little more private and secluded. Hopefully it will also help the dogs not bark at every single person that walks by and my neighbors will like me more. 🙂
Funny story I have to share. When Finn saw the fence he said, “Look at Finn’s new fence! It’s so big and pretty. Wow!”
And my dining table was delivered last night. Here’s a sneak peek. I’ll show it to you in my space once the chairs arrive and I get it all set up. I am IN LOVE! It’s gorgeous.
I hope that you guys have a nice weekend and that you are able to unplug, unwind and do something that makes you feel at ease.
Sending love to all.
I say this gently and respectfully as a long time reader…
I’ve noticed your blog has becoming different and pretty repetitive. The “recent eats” are literally always the same foods. I’m also wondering where a post went- it just vanished. It does seem you are struggling w the balance between private and public/for public consumption, but, unfortunately I do think it’s become important for you to address this more clearly w your readers. It may be an opportunity in disguise?
I do enjoy your blog, but I’m sure I’m not the only reader to be scratching their head lately. Thanks for keeping at it and please remember how I started: I’m saying this gently from a place of observation and, hopefully, respect.
Alisha, I’ve been scratching my head too. It is unbelievable to me how a woman like Jen has walked through all she has been through with her head – rightly – held high. And what’s crazy is that she has done so with the highest level of integrity, and a heart filled with love for her son, her family, her life, and with gratitude for all those who are walking alongside her in their own versions of *real* life. This blog is a breath of fresh air in what can sometimes feel like a suffocating world. Thank you Jen for bringing the sunshine!. ?
Maybe she eats the same things over and over, like a regular person!
Jen – I hope you are able to find a good solution for your anxious dog. My dog suffered a lot of anxiety the last few years of her life and it was so hard on my own mental health – her anxiety made me very anxious. I empathize with your situation because I know how difficult it can be.
Everything about 2020 has been “different”, so obviously Jen’s blog is going to seem different right now too. Maybe those repetitive foods are comfortable when so many other things are uncomfortable/stressful right now. Jen, thank you for the content you share. I also have an anxious dog and it’s a lot to handle on top of everything else us moms manage.
Hi Alicia – thanks for your loyalty when it comes to reading my blog and for taking the time to comment. I’m just wondering how 2020 has been for you…has it been a year where you’ve felt especially upbeat, positive, creative and hopeful? I have had my ups and downs and I’m doing my best to make the most of the weirdest year of my 37 years of life. I try to share honestly and openly to the degree that makes sense for where I am in life.
That being said, I have always walked a fine line when it comes to sharing personal details about my life, ESPECIALLY since becoming a mom. I don’t think these details are “owed” to my readers and I share what’s on my heart to the degree that I feel comfortable in the moment.
I’m not really sure what issues that you are wanting me to address but I found the overall tone of your comment to be the opposite of respectful.
Thinking of you and sweet benji. My sister said that there are three kinds of dog owners, those that get them for protection, those who ayer wish they never got them, and those who treat them like their kids! I definitely know which kind you are. if you have the best plan in mind for Benji and I’m hoping it works out.
When I moved 3 1/2 years ago Ruby had a very hard time with the new house and a ton of anxiety. Over time she got better. We have her on CBD now which definitely helps with her overall anxiety but wish I’d done it back then.
I think I missed something. Are you going to rehome Benji?
I was wondering too, but thought it odd that she left us hanging?? Maybe I mis-read.
Maybe she’s not ready to say yet. It’s a tough thing to do!!
My first thought too-I thought the rescue was pretty clear on his needs.
I had a feeling Benji might be a problem when Jen started posting almost defensively about how he was a “forever” part of the family and how well he fit in; it was almost like she was trying to convince herself of something that she knew deep down might not be true.
That said, I’m not against rehoming pets; sometimes it’s in the best interest of the owner AND the dog. I just thought it was weird she was doubling down so much on how Benji was going to be with them forever. No one can know for sure how things will work out when they get a new pet.
At no point in this post did I say that I was rehoming Benji. I’d also like to share that no one knows what is going on inside of my house or what’s in the best interest of Finn and Benji’s needs.
Just wanted to voice support that only you know what is best for your family <3 No one gets a dog thinking they will be rehomed (and obviously I have no idea if that's even a potential option for Benji right now) but of course Finn comes first and everything else comes second, and you're a good mom for organizing your priorities.
Wow, thanks for sharing those wise words. I love powerful, comforting quotes like that, from such thoughtful people as Rilke. It is so important to know that bad times do not last. I lesson I wish I had learned when I was younger!
Glad you have come to a decision with Benji. He looks so sweet curled up on the couch.
Re: the above comment – It’s not my business, but I would say, sometimes life can be repetitive. I eat the same food for weeks at a time, because it is easy to do. I change it up seasonally, but of course this year has been particularly challenging. I was so inspired by your blog and your healthy eating habits. I initially found you thru Bakin and eggs, and that corresponded to me steering myself to healthier eating. And you really inspired me Jen!!!
Breakfast almost every day, in winter – oatmeal with frozen wild blueberries that my local Walmart carries. Ever day!!!
Hi Trish – thanks so much for your comment and for your supportive words around reading my blog and repetitive food choices!
Hope all is ok with Benji – the dogs and Finn are so sweet together! I hope it all works out.
Thank you Kelley!
So good to read a simple blog post, a glimpse of normalcy right now. ?
Thanks Randi!
I really enjoy your blog and recent eats! Always a bright spot in the week to read a new post, especially at times like this year when things can get very lonely.
I truly hope the decision about Benji isn’t to rehome him. Rescues are usually a lot of work, and now that you’ve had him so long I can’t imagine how heartbroken and confused he would be to have to go to another home.
yes. please, please, pleeeeez ….don’t give up on Benji.
GAHHHH!!!! The judgement. JEN, please please please do what’s best for you and Finn and Benji. You are an AWESOME human mom and an AWESOME dog mom and the world needs way less judgement and way more empathy.
I can’t even see one more passive aggressive of judgemental comment on all these blogs!!! Girl- you are Wonder Woman. You’ve been dealt a hand you were ready for and you’re killing it!! Finns going to be so proud of his mama one day. Keep doing what you are doing!!!
Really unsure how my comment was judgmental? Her post did not specify what her plan was, so I simply said that I hoped that wasn’t the case as it would be even harder on Benji. But hey, thanks for YOUR judgement and it’s disappointing to see the number of people who think it’s ok to just give a dog away if it has any sort of problem. That’s why so many dogs are in shelters/rescues.
I hope all is well with Benji… but on an unrelated note- what fence company did you use locally!? I am in Charlotte and we have had issues finding fence repair companies. Thank you- and stay well!
I used Sunrise Fence. It took a few months to get on their schedule but they did great work and the price was reasonable.
Thank you! So many people are on a delay of late but I am glad some areas of industry are faring well! And for Benji, he will be in the right place wherever and whenever that is. Your devotion to your pups is clear- thank you for looking out for animals!
thank you so much for introducing me to tara brach – absolutely beautiful and I love that poem. xoxoxo
Jen, thank you for always sharing so much humanity with your readers. You always make me feel less alone (including in rotating many of the same eats because (a) I like them; and (b) life sometimes is too busy and overwhelming for creativity in the kitchen on top of everything else).
Re: Benji: I am so glad you’ve made the right decision for YOU. Please do not take shaming comments to heart; anyone who truly sees you knows that no one loves that pup more than you so who better to make the best decision for him and your family.
You took the words right out of my mouth!
Agree… seems like things have been hard recently but there are some highs and we’ve got to embrace those. I am giving you a huge virtual hug re: Benji. You have put so much energy, time, money and most of all love to that dog. I imagine you’re on the brink of a difficult decision, but you’ve got to do what’s best for everyone, including yourself.
I love the recent eats and “mundane” posts. They’re relatable and give me ideas of things to do with food in my fridge/ pantry!
She made a commitment to Benji. Adopting a puppy is not something to be taken lightly, especially when she is a single parent to a toddler, and I think she jumped into it and is now realizing she’s in over her head. It’s very unfortunate because Benji is who will suffer.
Wow, such judgmental comment. She is clearly very conscientious and doing her best to figure things out and has given a loving home to a rescue. Life is a journey and we don’t have it all figured out perfectly all the time.
Hi Jen!
I wanted to drop a line that I absolutely loved your chocolate pumpkin bars, they were a hit with Halloween, I almost practically ate them all! I read you blog all the time and LOVE it! I am super excited for you moving into a new home, new chapter -yay! I too eat the same foods too and do what is best for you with Benji – sending some virtual hugs your way!
Thank you so much for taking the time to share this, and for your support. I am so grateful. xo
just sending a hug and strength and love your way, girl!!
Thank you so much Adrianna. <3
I always enjoy your blog and Instagram and just wanted to take a minute to send love your way. What a crazy week/world.
Thank you very much. I am grateful for your kindness.
Poor Benji.
He’s had a rough life so many people have given up on him.
REALLY!? He had one family that got him as a puppy and couldn’t handle him and then he came to me at 7 months old. Did I even say that I was giving up on him!?
I am guessing Aleisha thought he has been through so much because you previously wrote about how you were torn about sending him to dog training after he’s been bounced between so many homes and people during his short 10 months of life. Regardless, it is clear that you love him and will make the best decision for him -whatever that may be.
Hi Jen! I’m an infrequent commenter, but dang… some of these comments have me spinning. I look forward to reading your blog and love your recent eats, I always get food ideas from them! I also enjoy seeing your life updates and reading about your family, dogs included. But, I do think it’s important to note that this is YOUR blog and can be anything you want it to be. Us readers aren’t owed anything or entitled to the nitty gritty details of your life. And these comments about Benji, whew! You have really gone above and beyond for this pup! The time, money and training that you have invested with him- you are definitely a committed pet owner. At the end of the day, you are responsible for making the decisions that are best for your family.
I appreciate you and your blog posts. Sending you much love!
I second what Whitney just said! During a year like this, it’s so important that we build each other up, cheer each other on, and support one another through everything!
Jen-I’ve been reading the blog for years and also rarely leave a comment. Your space is somewhere safe that I can come to and relax knowing that there are others out there going through things I am also going through. Keep growing, learning, changing, encouraging, EATING (love the recent eats!), mom-ing, loving, etc. Sending positive vibes to you this Monday morning!
Hi Jen, also an infrequent commenter (long time reader) but I was a bit outraged and heartbroken reading the comments on this post. I think Whitney said it best, this is YOUR blog and YOUR life and you have to do what’s best for you – no one knows what’s going on in your life/house/world etc but you – whether that relates to Benji, covid stress, job stress, raising a child stress etc. And you don’t owe anyone an explanation. Just because you have a blog doesn’t mean every detail of your life gets to be shared (although I’m guessing some readers on here think that but no one ever made a rule that said blogs need to share 100% of that persons life). Know you will always make the “right” decision of what to share and when, as you have done beautifully and thoughtfully for so many years now. Sending virtual hugs your way!
Whitney said it best!!! Completely agree!! 🙂
Longtime reader, infrequent commenter? I think Whitney put a lot of my thoughts into well written words! I love your content, it’s real and relatable and thank you for sharing bits of your life with us! Gosh, it’s been such a crazy year and it’s affected us all in very different ways. Keep doing you! You are an amazing, resilient and strong mama!
Hi Maria – thank you for reading and taking a minute to leave a comment on this post. I am very grateful for your encouragement and yes…what a year it has been! I don’t think anyone has felt at their “best” and should get a lot of grace for doing our best.
Hi Jen! I can totally relate to having an anxious dog. We have three dogs that are all rescues, and each of them has their problems, but our hound mix Sadie had extreme anxiety when we first got her. She had been re-homed several times and the shelter admitted to us that she was a handful. We have a two year old, and it got to the point where my husband said that Sadie was causing too much stress and we would have to get rid of her. I knew that if we took her back, the next person might kill her… she was that destructive from extreme anxiety. She chewed our mattress, peed in the house, chewed toys, doorframes, etc. I called our vet and explained the situation and they agreed that Sadie needed to be on something. We started her on Prozac and it is life changing! We give her the pills nightly, and she is a TOTALLY different dog. She is the gentlest one with our toddler and she has not destroyed another thing. I know drugs aren’t always the answer but we had tried a lot, and this is what we have found that works for Sadie.
Did you notice any side effects? We have had that suggestion from our vet, but haven’t made a decision yet.
Our rescue is on Prozac also! He was a street rescue with a piece of buckshot still embedded in his leg. No telling what he had been through. He was so very protective of us that we couldn’t have company. He was a mess. We tried training, thunder vests, etc. Our vet said that sometimes there is better living through chemistry. He is now just a total lovebug.
I,for one, really enjoy your blog just the way it is. You’re not going to please everyone, and that’s perfectly ok. Just keep on being your authentic self. Hope your Monday is good, Jen!
I hope the mean comments don’t stop you from your wonderful blog. I absolutely love everything you post. I love your food posts, your life posts, your mom posts…everything. Please don’t let a few bad eggs ruin everything for all of us who absolutely adore you and your blog. Hang in there. It has been a really hard year for everyone. I hope you find the answers for Benji no matter what those are…you know what is best for him and you know what will feel right in your heart. I’m sure it’s impossible to ignore the disrespectful comments, but I know there are a lot of people who look forward to your blog like I do. Wishing you all the best. Be easy on yourself.
Hi Jen,
I’ve been reading your blog since the beginning (I don’t go back to the bakin’ and eggs days though!) Nothing has been more apparent through the years than your absolute devotion to your dogs. You go above and beyond and are an amazing dog (and human!) mom. Sending love your way <3
I’ll add my two cents to the comments only to say that people are not forced to read your content so if they don’t like it, agree with it, or find it repetitive, they should spend their time elsewhere.
You do you, Jen.
Hey Jen – I’ve been a reader since the beginning and will gracefully suggest maybe stopping the blog for awhile? It seems that on Insta and now here that you’ve been editing/deleting a lot and it is no longer genuine. Maybe take some time off and focus on yourself and family. Wishing you nothing but the best.
Hi Jen – another longtime reader and infrequent commenter here that wanted to express my support for you. Your blog title alone expressed that you were going through a lot and then people piling on the negativity in the comments certainly didn’t improve your week.
To me, if your blog was perfectly upbeat with lots of creative inspiration, it wouldn’t feel genuine and I’d be wondering what was wrong with me. No one is that way this year and no one should be expecting anyone to be that way this year. I appreciate that you’ve continued to blog regularly through this year and I read whatever you post as I always take something away from it. Even if that something is not feeling inspired to be creative for dinner is ok 🙂
I know that you will put yourself and your family first and that truly is the most important. You shouldn’t feel that you need to explain or justify your decisions to others.
And to the commenters tearing Jen apart – wow. I do not understand how spewing so much negativity makes you feel better about yourself. It has certainly hurt Jen and other readers who care about Jen, even if we have never met her. If there is one take away for this year it should be to focus on compassion and empathy.
This blog has been such a comfort to me this year especially. My boyfriend and I are still cooking the majority of our meals in more than we ever have before, and I’m working remotely and have been able to enjoy breakfasts and lunches that wouldn’t have been so easy to pack on the go. We have LOVED so many of your recipes and I’ve become a huge fan of hummus rice bowls with a runny egg for lunch. Your recent eats inspire me and I have found myself craving the same breakfast or lunch for days in a row before moving on to something else. It’s something about this year. Sending love to you and your little fam!
I don’t know if you’re still reading these comments, Jen, but ONLY you know what is right for you and your family. You do not owe anyone a darn thing. I truly appreciate you sharing glimpses into your life, to whatever extent you want to. Please, do what feels best for you, and try (I know it’s hard) to ignore those who have made unbelievably negative comments that are, quite frankly, completely inappropriate. I have loved your blog for a long time, and your posts about what you’ve been eating have helped me start to recover from some restricted eating patterns and habits. Please know that there are many of us out here who will support you no matter what.
I appreciate the vulnerability you’ve shown in your blog because it has normalized so many feelings I have had. I also think it’s important to remember that blogs are online diaries, requiring a lot of courage to share publicly. They are not magazines carefully curated by several contributors. I think it’s up to us readers to decide if the blogs are a good fit for us now and if not then to unsubscribe. Blogs should change as people change. Magazines are different. We readers have a choice in whether we choose to read or not. I have felt a sense of loss when so many people I have followed have chosen to post less frequently due to life changes or changing content based on their phase of life. But that’s life. We grow and change as humans. It’s ok for blogs to reflect that.
I will post even though I hate posting just to say I enjoy reading your blog and I have since I had my daughter who is similar age as your son. I would never have the courage to have a blog and share the way you do because it opens up the door for so much judgement and negativity. Just wanted you to know that I have enjoyed reading:) Have a good week.
Count me as another one scratching my head at some of the earlier comments…hang in there, Jen! Best of luck working out things with Benji. Your posts over the years have made it very clear how much your dogs matter to you, and I’m confident you are bringing that level of care to your thought process here.
As for repetition…dang, there’s a pandemic, y’all, the last thing I personally want to see is someone doing thrilling (and less safe) things while I’m chilling at home eating my umpteenth dinner of grilled cheese and roasted veggies. Plus, I like the reminder that there’s no need to hop on every new online wellness trend when it comes to eating – consistency is a good thing!
Jen, I had to post to send you some support. I am a divorce lawyer and have found that COVID has ratcheted a lot of people up to a level that they lash out. It’s more about them than the recipient. A client of mine said last week that she thought our interactions were lacking. I was totally thrown off, as that is my strength. We had a Zoom yesterday and she apologized profusely that she was under so much stress from the election and home schooling her 3 kids. I hope you can allow these ridiculous comments to roll off your back!
I love your blog, have been reading for many years, and don’t want you to change a thing. Sending you good vibes from just down the road in SC! Keep up the amazing work.
I agree with Suzanne. This year has been so hard for everyone and some are lashing out where it isn’t warranted. Hang in there, Jen!
Thank you Courtney. I couldn’t agree with both of you more. <3 This has been an unprecedented year that has pushed so many to their edges.
Hi Jen-
I didn’t originally read the comments on this post until you referred to them in your “recent eats” post, but after reading them I feel the need to send a virtual HUG! I’ve never commented before, but I love your content, your light, and your honesty. I’m frequently referring friends to your “self love” power flow on YouTube and have done it multiple times myself. I feel like we are kindred spirits and would be friends if I lived nearby! I have a goldendoodle of my own and just want to acknowledge that parenting and dog parenting is hard work, especially on your own. Do not be discouraged. I am cheering you on!
Jen, I caught my breath reading some of these comments. Sharing aspects of your life on the Internet opens you up to some very unnecessary, often uninformed/premature judgments, and you handle it with grace. The Internet is a strange place when people feel the need to share their “knowledge” or “helpful” unsolicited advice to someone who has never asked. ??
As someone who’s been reading your blog for 7+ years, it’s so evident to me how much you love your dogs and your little guy, Finn. You’re doing a great job! (and as someone who has eaten the same 4 dinners on rotation for the past few months…I am amazed by you!) You often inspire my meal creativity when I *do* get creative!
Hi Jen, I’ve regularly read your blog for years and appreciate you (and this space) so very much. Besides feeling connected to your shares as a yoga teacher and personal trainer myself, many of your posts have helped me immensely through the loss of my dog, a long-term breakup, finding myself and my independence again, building my business…It’s been your shares about Sully, your journey to become who you are now that has brought me so much solace and I can’t thank you enough for being vulnerable in the brightest and darker moments. Being in the public eye both locally as a figure in your community and on the internet, it’s really tough to walk the fine line of public vs private and you do it so gracefully. Keep doing you girl! I love all your recipes and recent eats (and have never once thought that it’s the same thing! i’m always so inspired by them every week)…and your Spotify playlists. Your yoga playlists are always bangers and inspire a lot of the playlists I put together too. Thank you for all that you do <3
Hi Michelle – thank you so much for reading and for these amazing words. It’s been a strange thing to blog through the last 12 years of my life. I’ve certainly grown and changed a lot over the years and I can honestly say I feel so much gratitude for where and who I am now. That balance of public and private has required constant examination to see where the line is…and I’ve oftentimes missed it in one direction or the other. Overall, it’s been an incredible opportunity to use my voice and share my stories to help other women not feel alone in anything they might be feeling or experiencing in their own lives.
Sending you a whole lot of love!
Virtual hugs sent your way ❤️❤️
Thank you Cindy. 🙂
I just wanted to add another voice to those above who are telling you that you are appreciated and valuable. You have a lovely blog and seem like a kind gentle person. There is a phrase that “expectations are premeditated resentments” that could maybe apply to some of the other commenters. Regardless, I wish the best for you and will always enjoy whatever level of content you choose to share.
Hi Jacinta – I really appreciate you taking the time to comment with such kind words and also to share that phrase. I’ve never heard it before and it gives me a lot to think about. Thank you for reading my blog. <3
Hi Jen! I’ve been a reader for almost 10 years – thanks for being always authentic and vulnerable while also sharing bravely about boundaries when needed.
I just wanted to say that I think it’s fascinating that people are spending energy speculating on the choices you are or are not making for your family… your blog isn’t a reality show. I enjoy reading your posts, they’re certainly a nice consistent part of my week and often give me something to thing about (be it a meal idea, or a reflection for my soul) – but I don’t spend time or energy questioning your choices. It’s been clear for years that you’re a kind, caring, woman who loves deeply and makes the best choices for her loved ones and herself that she can.
Stay strong <3
Hey Jen – I just wanted to add my voice to say that I too have enjoyed your blog for years. I’ve really cut back on the number of blogs that I read (I used to read so many!) and yours is one of the few that I have stuck with. Thanks for being a bright spot in my day. Sending hugs your way.
Jen I have read your blog for years and for what its worth, it does not seem to me like you are hiding anything or the nonsense some above readers commented. I love your blog for its genuinely real content. <3
Long time reader here, and I have to apologize on behalf of the other commenters who are setting expectations on you, whether that’s on how you blog, what you’re eating, or how you manage your family’s health and well-being. You have always been a beacon of kindness, growth and being gentle with yourself, and I wish we as your reader community emulated more of what you have shown us.
Hugs to you!
I couldn’t help but to add my voice here. I’ve been reading for years and seeing a new post from you (be it here on the blog or on Instagram) is always a bright spot for me. I get so much inspiration from you, especially your yoga and spiritual content and as a toddler mother myself I love seeing any and all Finn content. I think in this era of google and reality tv and constant sharing that it’s very difficult for people to remember that just because we might be curious about something or someone doesn’t mean that we are entitled to the information. I know that I certainly don’t share everything on my own social media and have gotten more selective about what I do as I get older and consider what is best for my growing family.
I do hope that you’ll continue to share to whatever extent that you are comfortable and know that the vast majority of your readers have nothing but respect for you and the content you put out. Sending love and hugs
I’m late to the game, but after seeing your latest post i had to return to these comments. Insane, negative people tearing another woman down, I’ll never understand it. You are a breath of fresh air, a light, an inspiration for authenticity. I have followed since you had that cooking blog (i can’t even remember what it’s called!) and have loved the ebbs and flows of the blog because they are real life. In 2020, I checked out of reading blogs that just promoted products or cute outfits. This is a moment for vulnerability, connection, and unwavering support of fellow human beings. All of which you are showing to us. I think you are shining beautifully among a sea of negativity and wish you a relaxing weekend. Don’t worry about these nuts commenting above.
Also commenting to say I’ve read your blog for years and I think it would incredibly strange if through this ridiculous year that 2020 has been you were upbeat and over the top happy all the time. Absolutely none of us are right now. And for what it’s worth, I actually think in light of everything, you’ve still projected optimism and happiness regardless. And in what comes across as a genuine manner to me. Thank you for being transparent and for normalizing….normal life! Wish you all good things!
Girl – you’re awesome! I don’t think others are really coming from a bad place; just giving their thoughts; in writing comments, the tone can be misinterpreted..please don’t let it sour your outlook. As you know in any area of life there will be folks that agree or disagree with you and it’s fine. There’s alot us as someone commented earlier, that don’t like posting, but love to read your blog. I always check a few times a week as I say: “let’s see what Jen & Finn are up to this week!” I love your salad and meal ideas-they’re great – you’re doing a great job Jen!
I absolutely love your content and how you share it. I look forward to your posts and pictures of your beautiful family.
hi Jen. I have been reading your blog for the past 3 years and I really enjoy it. You are an amazing mom with lots of energy and love. Finn is such a handsome little man and I love watching him grow and playing with your dogs. Thank you for sharing him with all of us. Bottom line – you do what is right for your family!
Hi Jen,
Long-term reader here, and never posted before but the comments above tugged at my heart for you. Reading your blog is a part of my day I look forward to because I trust it’s genuine, you have become a “friend” through your stories. I truly hope the negative responses do not sway your heart. You’re an amazing mom and dog mama and doing SUCH a good job. An inspiration for the rest of us! <3
Jen, you’re amazing. Yours is the only blog I’ve consistently read in my life. The negativity that randomly showed up in these comments is bizarre. I’m repeating what others have said already, but your blog is yours. I hope you’re finding ways to distance yourself from the judgment and general bad behavior that has emerged in some people in the comments here. Take care.
As a long-time reader and friend, I’m sorry that some of your readers have nothing better to do than analyze your life, track whether or not you are deleting posts, and make guesses at your next moves. You are in charge of what you share and I personally find it relevant and inspiring, as do many of your other readers. Don’t let the negativity of a few override the positive support of so many others. Sending love.