Good morning, my friends! How are you? I hope your week was a good one. I didn’t mean to disappear from the blog yesterday but I was tying up some loose ends, checking a few last minute work-related things off my to-do list and dashing around the house in an effort to pack everything we needed for a long weekend away in West Virginia. We hit the road after dinner last night and made the six-hour drive to Snowshoe Mountain where we will be spending the next three days! (If you’re familiar with the area, I’d love to hear any recommendations you may have!)
We’re hoping to spend 99 percent of our time outside, hiking with Chase and Sadie (wish us luck because we bought a new hiking backpack to try) and playing in the pool and lake near our townhouse rental. I’ll be sure to share a recap of our first vacation away as a family of four (Sadie always counts!) on Monday.
Until then, I wanted to stop by to share my weekly Things I’m Loving Friday blog post with you guys and, as always, encourage you to participate in the fun by sharing a little bit about what is making you smile in the comments section of this post!
Have a great weekend!
Things I’m Loving Friday
A recap of Alyssa and Brittany’s visit last weekend never made it on the blog earlier this week, but it was so nice to have friends in town when Ryan and I were in serious need of a good distraction last weekend. Alyssa and Brittany arrived in town on Friday night and we filled the weekend with time on the lake and lots of yummy food and drinks (Brittany made a s’mores dip that was amazing and her strawberry frosé was the perfect summertime beverage). I’m grateful for the internet for bringing these two wonderful women into my life and we had a blast getting to know their guys better, too! We’re already talking about planning another visit soon! Thanks for making the drive to Charlotte, Brittany and Alyssa!
There’s something special about nut butter you discover at a local farmer’s market and I can absolutely see why Brittany and Alyssa fell in love with Reginald’s Nut Butter at their local Richmond farmer’s market. It’s made with delicious roasted Virginia peanuts, a dash of oil and, depending on the unique flavor, a small handful of other natural ingredients. Brittany and Alyssa brought me their two favorite flavors – Nana Honey Peanut Butter and Wedding Pretzel Crunch – and I can absolutely see why Reginald’s is a staple in their houses. I’ve mostly just been eating it straight out of the jar (still my favorite way to enjoy peanut butter), but it was also amazing drizzled on top of a hot bowl of oats for breakfast yesterday. Yum!
Is it just me or are people completely brow obsessed these days? What is it with eyebrows right now!? Truthfully, I’ve never really given my brows much thought and apparently it shows because I had someone send me a message on Snapchat recommending that I fill in my brows a bit since they are so light. It’s something that’s been on my radar for a while now but eyebrow pencils scare me and after a bad experience with a makeup artist years ago, I was super weary of overly bold eyebrows.
As fate would have it, I ended up stumbling upon an eyebrow station at Ulta a few weeks ago and took some time to experiment with a few different products. I ended up walking away Benefit’s Ka-Brow! Cream Gel Eyebrow Color. The brush allows for buildable color which is perfect for me since I can lightly layer it on until my brows start to appear more defined (and not too crazy-bold!) and fill in some of the splotchy parts of my brows. It has awesome reviews on Ulta.com and I’ve been very happy with this random find!
Last month, when I got my hair done, at the end of my appointment, my hairstylist rubbed a bit of Moroccan oil on the ends of my hair. Now that I’ve started coloring my hair, I cannot help but ask a million questions about hair care since I know coloring can damage the hair and I want to keep my hair as healthy as possible. When I asked about the benefits of Moroccan oil, my hair stylist explained that it’s great for conditioning the hair, decreasing breakage and adding shine without residue.
Years ago, during a Fitness Magazine event, I received a sample of Moroccan oil and used it for a little while before I completely forgot about it. Thankfully, my latest experience at the hair salon reminded me of my old bottle and I found it in the back of a drawer in my bathroom. I’ve been applying it to my hair (avoiding the roots) before bed and love the way my hair soaks it up overnight so it doesn’t look greasy in the morning. Anything to keep my hair healthy!
- The Honest Company Overnight Diapers
I’m sure you guys know by now that I am a big fan of The Honest Company’s diapers. I’ve been subscribing to their diaper bundles for months (<—a great way to save money if you’re also a fan of their diapers!) and recently added a pack of overnight diapers to my order. They are wonderful!! Even when Chase wakes up to nurse in the middle of the night, I try not to change him (unless, on the off chance, there is a number two in there…) and the overnight diapers definitely seem to hold more in and keep Chase dryer for longer. Plus, the sleepy sheep print is too darn cute! The overnight diapers are now a bedtime staple in our house!
- Constructive Feedback and Some Final Thoughts
This week I received some similar comments from a handful of blog readers who were frustrated with the vague way I approached sharing our stress surrounding Chase’s blood work on the blog. I have thought a lot about these comments and I completely understand where they are coming from and wanted to address these concerns here this morning.
One blog reader left the following comment on Wednesday’s blog post:
“I hope you will elaborate on the story more soon, as I feel your vagueness is allowing readers to form their own opinions that this isn’t that serious. I don’t think that was your intent, but that is the way it is coming off. This seemed like more of a scare and pale in comparison to what other parents may be going through. Again, because of the vagueness. My advice as a reader is full transparency or none at all.”
Truthfully, I think her comment sums up the way a handful of you may feel right now and so I wanted to share my response to her constructive feedback with you below. I am always, always learning and know that I make a billion mistakes as a blogger but I appreciate those of you who left constructive feedback and want you to know I take it to heart.
My response:
“Thank you for your feedback. I can understand where you are coming from and apologize if my vagueness is upsetting to you and others. As a blogger, I sometimes struggle with what to share and what not to share in such a public space. At the time I initially shared what we were going through, I had no idea what the end results from Chase’s blood work would be. I hoped and prayed and believed they would be good, but I didn’t know. And I was scared.
As I briefly mentioned before, the follow up blood work we had done was not directly related to Chase’s small size but something more serious that truly frightened me and my family. When a mother hears the words ‘bone disease’ mentioned by her child’s doctor it is hard not to worry, cry and feel helpless. I didn’t feel comfortable not mentioning my worries on the blog and pretending like things were happy and fine when the past week has been filled with a lot of stress and uncertainty while we waited for results from his follow up blood work.
I realize that receiving good news now may make this whole ordeal seem small, but when I shared what we were going through, I didn’t know what the results were going to be and I was scared and unsure how to handle everything. We are feeling optimistic, but still have some follow up testing in our future. I am believing all will be okay.
In retrospect, maybe I should’ve kept this off the blog altogether. It was a struggle for me because not mentioning something that directly impacts the biggest thing in my life – my son – felt fake, inauthentic and disingenuous. I didn’t know how to handle it and maybe I didn’t handle it well, but I hope you can understand where I’m coming from and that it was not at ALL my intent to make others feel bad or bring about comparisons to other family’s health concerns. I think you’re right about full transparency or none at all in the future. It’s something I spoke at length with Ryan about yesterday and I know that in the future, I will likely keep things like this to myself. Thank you for reading and for your feedback. I truly appreciate it.”
I am sharing my response with you today because while I think sharing highs and lows on this blog is important, I know that some things truly are better off discussed outside of such a public space. I now know my son’s health is one of these things.
Your comments are not dissuading me from being authentic in this space but there are certain things that affect me and my family that I am learning should not be shared so openly. I apologize to those who were upset by the way I handled everything and, more importantly, I apologize to those facing health scares within their families who were upset by my posts. I truly, truly wish only the very best for all of you.
- Friday Flashbacks
10 Make Ahead Breakfast Recipes (A roundup of 10 of my favorite breakfast recipes that can easily be prepped ahead of time.)
Total Body Pyramid Workout (Begin by completing 20 reps of the five exercises listed in the 20 reps section before moving onto 40 reps of the four exercises in the 40 reps section and 60 reps of the final three exercises in the 60 reps section. Then go back down the pyramid and complete the 60, 40 and 20 rep sections in reverse order.)
- Around the Web
Food: Spinach Banana Muffins // Healthy Mexican Shrimp Salad // Watermelon Rosemary Popsicles
Fitness: 12 Minute Tabata Workout // Do What Made You Happy As A Kid // Yoga Flow for Digestive Health and Relaxation
Question of the Day
- What is one thing you are loving this week?
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The relationship between a blogger and a reader is a unique one, and it’s one that – unfortunately – results in some readers feeling very and unnecessarily entitled. I have 3 children, and my oldest has some significant health issues. We’ve had tests that have delivered really bad news and some that were false alarms, all equally frightening while we waited for answers, and I didn’t have the added pressure of several thousand readers who are expect a glimpse into my daily life. You handled, and continue to handle, the situation just fine. You should never feel pressured to share more than you’re comfortable with or put on a happy face and pretend that everything is fine when it isn’t.
Your response to your son’s potential health scare is perfectly natural and there should be no reason to apologize for sharing when you are going through something terrifying. I strongly disagree with that reader and in fact appreciated that you shared what was going on. There is beauty in joy, happiness, and perfect lives but when you lift the veil to see that things may not be all happiness that is when you seem most real, most relatable. I am a long time reader since you lived in Ocala and have followed through your Highs and lows. Even though I celebrate your highs with you, I do appreciate you sharing that it may not be all sunshine. It serves as a learning curve for those of us who may never have thought of that kind of situation. Please don’t stop sharing your “real” life, those posts are what makes you pbfingers. 🙂
Julie, I can’t say anything more or better than has already been said perfectly by so many others, but I wholeheartedly agree with them and just want to throw in another voice of support for you here! I love your blog and appreciate you and all you share. I couldn’t be happier about the good news you received about your little fella. Have a wonderful trip with your family!
Rarely do I comment but I felt the need today. Personally I just don’t understand how people can be unhappy with the way the YOU approached giving details about YOUR life and YOUR son. While I admit I wanted to know what was going on, just knowing it was a health scare with Chase made my heart hurt for you and Ryan having to deal with a scary thing like this. My son Quinn was born only a few months after Chase, so I felt like all your pregnancy and baby updates were so close to what I was going through–totally enjoyed it! Now having a son I cannot imagine the fear, the hurt and the worry you were experiencing. I am personally a very open person and I think that you do a great job sharing bits of life- and of course keeping things personal too.
Anyway, this does have a point! I think you are right to express how you feel, and just because others are going through their own difficult time does not make what you were/are going through lesser just because you didn’t have firm good or bad news when you were sharing. Your response to the reader made me a bit sad, you have every right to feel worried and upset about waiting on test! Please don’t feel like you owe people that have been negative about this. If they don’t like vague, then that is fine but you have the right to share how you want!
Glad for good results!
I too, like the comments before me, feel compelled to leave my two cents. Just like you, I am a fitness gal, love beauty products and am a new mom with a 3 month old son. When I was pregnant with Benjamin I re-read all of your pregnancy recaps. Right before he was born I re-read Chase’s birth story. Now I re-read monthly updates. You keep doing what you’re doing, momma.
The emotion of someone feeling frustrated with you being vague seems so silly to me. I hope you continue to share some of the ups and downs of your life because it’s what life actually is. I know I’m not the only one waking up 3 times a night and covered in spit up 🙂 I’ll continue to pray for you and your family and you share whatever depth you feel comfortable but please know that at the low points, you have a whole internet of people (minus the 1% who should be disregarded) who want to help pick you up.
Always remember in the blog world you can never win. If you had shared your entire issue with Chase, I’m sure somebody would have still had an issue with that. Our son had a minor heart problem when he was born, well it was really nothing but sometimes Doctors/Nurses can register so much fear in you when the talk to you about your child’s health. Something to them like “your son has a small hole in his heart, but don’t worry it should close” sounds catastrophic to you. Don’t worry any mom that has a child that may have had any kind of small scare probably lost their mind till they knew everything was going to be OK.
On a side note I didn’t realize ULTA was a beauty store! They opened one up in Buffalo and I saw the sign for it but never drove into the plaza to see what it was. I am from Canada and pop over the border to get “American” things specifically food that we can never find in Canada so I will make sure to stop by that store!
Julie this is your blog and your space to share whatever you want. I realize readers are important, but you have a blog that is a personal creative space. I don’t think you should feel obligated to tell all or nothing. I think you should talk about what you are ready to talk about in as much detail as you want! I think a lot of people appreciate your honesty and can really relate to what is happening in your life.
Like all the comments above, I am floored that you have to explain yourself or your approach. I’m sorry that in addition to the stress you were going through, you had to give serious contemplation to a business decision you made. We all appreciate your authenticity, and life isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. You got scared. You weren’t ready to share. And you know what? Putting it in writing/words might have been too much. Too real. And that is normal. I’m so sorry you had to go through that Julie, and I am so happy the results came back with good news.
I completely, 100% agree with Morgan’s comment. This blog is YOUR space to share whatever you want. I think it’s important to remember that you can’t please all of the people all of the time, so be true to yourself and authentic in sharing whatever part of your life you wish to share.
I’m so glad your little guy got some good news though!
Julie, I also just want to show my support here and share that I think you handled this situation beautifully. You shared what you were comfortable with and that allowed us readers to pray for Chase, you, and your family. You didn’t have to share any more than you did for us to know you needed prayers and support, and that is how it should be. You’re an amazing blogger, one I admire so much. Don’t think twice about that criticism. In my opinion, that is just readers being nosy- the rest of us are just happy we were able to pray for you, send you kind words, and now, are thrilled you received good news. ?
I 100% disagree with whoever left that comment. While your response was full of class, you shouldn’t have had to apologize for what you shared. As a long time reader, I want to hear that you’re a real person and go through trials as well as happy times. So glad to hear good news about Chase–what a cutie!
Wow I cannot believe the smallness of some people out there. Julie, this is absolutely your blog and you don’t owe your readers anything other than whatever feels genuine to you to share. I’m sorry that some people out there can’t appreciate the balancing act you find yourself in of sharing or not sharing personal information, but if they don’t like the way you’ve handled something they are (presumably) in control of their faculties enough to CLICK AWAY FROM THE BLOG. Seriously, you don’t owe us anything. Write what feels authentic to what you’re going through and as someone said above BYE FELICIA to anyone who doesn’t get that.
(And by the way those of us who follow you on social media probably intuit when something’s up even if you don’t choose to share. After you didn’t post on snapchat for a few days last week/weekend I had the thought “I hope she’s ok!” Ha ha! Modern technology is crazy…)
Although your vagueness had me curious, anxious and worried for you and your family – this is your blog, your voice and your life. If people do not like the way you approach things they do not need to read YOUR blog. Stay strong and do what you feel is right. There will always be a few that do not agree.
Hi Julie- I completely agree with Lisa. This is your blog. Does that mean you can only share bad news if it is literally the worst thing in the entire world because no one will be worse off for you to offend? You are so kind for understanding those readers’ comments but this blog is about you and your life and I would hate for you to hold back. The scare was very real for you and it shouldn’t be minimized because there was something worse out there that a child could have. You are a rockstar. I love your blog and get excited when I see something new is posted and appreciate all that you share.
You definitely do NOT need to explain yourself! As a blogger myself sometimes you want to share without giving away too much information – and that’s totally ok.
Anyways, love that brow gel too 🙂
Kim
http://bit.ly/2bMGdB4 .. 3 no heat hairstyles!!
Julie – I am sorry you felt the need to apologize. THIS is your life with YOUR family and you can share as much or as little as you want. I am thankful that you shared as I had the chance to add Chase to our prayer list. As a believer, I truly believe God answers prayers and all the love from your readers helped.
I live in Atlanta and Jenn Hobby who is a radio host on Star 94.1 has a 11 month old daughter. In the last 2 weeks she was diagnosed with cancer. She lives a public life and has openly shared what is happening with her daughter Reece. The response and support is amazing from the community.
You be you! We LOVE you, Chase, Ryan and Sadie!
This is so well said Lauren and completely sums up my thoughts. As a mom of a 2 year old and 8 month old boys, I was thankful you shared what was going on and 100% understand your vagueness. The added stress of feeling like you have to share all or nothing is not something you should have to worry about on top of what you have going on.
Hi Julie, As many others have so eloquently stated, this is your space to share and your choice to share as much information as you deem fit. I have loved following your story, the highs and the lows, over the last several years and appreciate both sides of the story. Life isn’t always easy, but you show both sides with positivity and reality. Your blog is one of my favorites and one I always look for first in my blog reader. I was worried about what might have been happening with Chase, but I also recognize there’s only so much you know and are willing to share when it comes to the health of your son. I’m one of the ones who never commented, sent a message, or reached out, but please know I was thinking about you and your family each day hoping and wishing for good news (and constantly checking for any updates). Each family has their own experiences that they go through, I hope you continue to share yours in the same fashion that you have been. Know your family is loved and thought about often. I hope you all have a fun, relaxing weekend in Snowshoe knowing the results and enjoy the time you have celebrating your family!
Honestly, the fact that you had to apologize to a reader that HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH YOUR LIFE pisses me off. If I was in your situation and I was worried about my child, I would ask people to pray but not give all the details. Sometimes in stressful situations it is just too much to say out loud what is happening and to just ask people to pray. This is your blog about your life and you can share whatever you feel like sharing. No need to worry about anyone else and how they might respond to your post. Also, the fact that she is correcting you for being upset when other people have more serious things is so shitty. Every person has their own journey and to spend your life worrying about how this might come across to someone else is a wasted life. While it may not be a big deal to some people, it IS a big deal to you and should be treated as such. I’m sorry they made you feel bad for their own insecurities.
#endrant.
Hi Julie, I don’t usually comment but I feel that this topic needs a comment. I fully disagree with the person who stated that it needs to be all or nothing. I love reading your updates and I loved that you shared something so personal with your blog readers. Just as friends do, there’s ways to tell someone what you’re going through without sharing all at once and that’s exactly what you did, and that’s perfectly fine. It’s your blog, your outlet, and if you needed support, thoughts, and prayers sent your way, you went about it in the best way without sharing too much personal information. There’s nothing wrong with asking for support from people you consider your friends and people that really care about you won’t need all the information.
I am so incredibly relieved for you that your baby boy is going to be okay! I’m not a mother yet but hope to be in the near future and I couldn’t even imagine hearing what you heard at the doctors. Hope this helps!
Hi Julie, Again it is your space to share what you want and how much you want to elaborate. We were all just thrilled everything was okay with Chase! I had my baby boy right after you had Chase…and I enjoyed reading your blog for years prior and even more so now as we navigate the journey of parenthood. I hope this doesn’t dissuade you from sharing updates on Chase and your family. Hope you enjoy your mini vacation in W VA!
In no way should you apologize how you handled the situation. As a new mother I can only imagine the stress and anxiety you are feeling. This is your blog and you should handle these situations as you and your family seem fit. Sometimes it is just fine to ignore comments made by others–especially those who are not in your shoes.
On a serious note, you handle yourself with such grace and class! Such a proud trait to have!
Non serious note – I freaking love Benefit eyebrow makeup! I have the “goof proof pencil” and it is my favorite! I have blonde hair so my eyebrows are very light too. Now, I can’t go a day without filling in my eyebrows some.
Hi Julie – As a huge fan of your blog, I was disappointed to read your post today and learn that someone thought it was appropriate to criticize your posts last week. As a reader over the past few years, I knew that you would share what you were going through in your own time, and appreciate you letting us into your life day by day. Please know that you have lots of support! Take care, enjoy your weekend away!
Julie first of all I can’t even believe that you have to explain yourself as to how you approached your scare last week. This is YOUR blog and us readers are choosing to read and follow your life. You should be able to share whatever is on your mind, however you like.
AND I did that Pyramid workout this morning before I read this post, too funny! Loved it.
Oh and FROSE! I had my first glass at a restaurant last weekend, it was so good! I can’t wait to make Brittany’s recipe at home!
You should never have to apologize for what you put on your blog. Everyone is always going to have an opinion or be offended by something. In today’s world you can’t do or say anything without someone finding something wrong with what you said or how you said it. Don’t let people’s opinions interfere with how you share things. I am so glad Chase is ok and I love hearing about him. As a new mother of a almost 7 month old, your blog has helped me in so many ways to feel like I am doing ok as a new mom. I couldn’t imagine going what you have gone through the past week, so enjoy your vacation! Haters gonna hate-always people out there like this!
Julie, I read your blog everyday but rarely comment. Today is not one of those days. This is a public space, yes, but it’s your space and you deserve to be yourself here. I think a lot of your readers feel connected to you and love you and your family, so it is hard to hear you’re going through a tough time and it’s easy for us outsiders to *want* to know all the details, but that does not mean that you *want* to share them, and you don’t have to. Being about to come to your space and share your concerns, fears, and frustrations is just continuing to let this be your outlet – which is a big part of what a blog is: the outlet for the writer. Even without knowing specifics, you had tons of people – hundreds – praying for your family during the difficult time you were going through. Praise God that things turned out positively! I completely believe in the power of prayer and I believe God listens to them. Please don’t be discouraged from sharing where you’re at in life for fear of readers responding negatively. I guarantee that will happen no matter what you post. Be true to you and keep this space your outlet and connection to so many people who admire you. Keep doin’ you, girl! Have a great vacation and enjoy your perfect family. <3
You should be able to share as much as you want. You shouldn’t ever feel obligated to share a certain aspects of your life just because you have a blog. I worry that those leaving comments that they are “upset” because you were vague may have been just wanting more information. Just because they want it doesn’t mean they deserve it.
I understand that you were trying to be more authentic, which I think is great. I love authenticity. But I also know you don’t “owe” readers every detail of your life. If you choose to share, it should be that: your choice. I love your blog because you are authentic and share great info. But that doesn’t mean I expect you to share every aspect of your life. Bottom line is I don’t think you did anything wrong. Keep on being awesome!
Please don’t hold back your life experiences – no matter how ‘small’ they may seem to others. Reading what you were going through was actually such an important thing for you to write because it reminded me that life isn’t always ‘perfect’ for the bloggers we adore. They are real and experience trials and tribulations just like the rest of that, and I appreciated that and it honestly made me love reading your blog even more.
Don’t let one or two people’s comments sway your authentic nature. You have the other 99% of your blog readers that love the way you write and don’t want to lose that.
You are truly a patient and kind person Julie. My opinion would be to share whatever feelings you have in this space – it is your blog. I appreciate the honesty and the authenticity. You have nothing to apologize for. As a mom, I can appreciate how health scares can really get to your core. Such a blessing that it turned out to be nothing. Just shake it off and have a fabulous weekend!!!
I just have to say how admirable you are. Your selective degrees of transparency are your call and quite frankly, I love this about your blog. In my own personal life, often one of my friends/members of my family even will ask for prayers -with no context. Or, they might say “please lift my son/marriage/job/family up in prayer.” I don’t ask questions, or question the integrity of our relationship bc I don’t have the whole story. I do what I can for them. In this space, in a public blog, I can’t imagine anyone thinking that is unacceptable. This is your space. You are full of grace and poise, Julie!
Reading the post made me quite angry for two reasons:
1. You are gorgeous and no one needs to be commenting on EYEBROWS…seriously!?!? Your eyebrows are just perfect without any added make-up!
2. If people are frustrated with vague content on your blog, then they should stop reading it. You write what you want and that’s that.
I don’t know how you deal with these hooligans… 🙂
Thanks for bringing me entertainment day in, and day out! <3
I don’t usually feel compelled to comment on the blogs I read. I couldn’t believe that you had people writing negative things in response to you sharing the health scares in your family. I am truly sorry that you had to hear things like that in addition to dealing with what I am sure was a terryifying experience. I love reading your blog because of your positive attitude and how open you are about your life. It’s your blog, and if someone doesn’t like how you handle those types of situations maybe they shouldn’t be reading it in the first place. You’re very sweet for taking the time to
Explain yourself but it seems crazy to me that you have to do that.
Glad to hear the tests came back fine and hope you and your family are feeling much better. ❤️❤️❤️
It’s great of you to reply to such a comment and shows you care about your readers. I guarantee most of us do not feel like this reader did about the way you shared the details of Chase’s test. It’s your blog to share how you wish. I guarantee most of us where happy you felt comfortable sharing what you did and we where sending positive thoughts for a positive outcome.
Everyone is entitled to their opinion and I respect that, good job on the response.
I am apalled that people had the audacity to leave you anything but well wishes regarding your trying time. This is your space to do with as you like, and although I missed your daily updates I thought it was kind of you to pop in and just let your readers know you were going through a family matter that required your time and attention. I hope you feel the support and love from the majority of your readers and know we respect your desire for privacy!
You did not have to apologize for being vague!!! This is your space on the Internet and are free to share or not share whatever you want. I know that there have been times in my life when I’ve kept struggles to myself or been vague about my feelings. Everyone deals with that, including the people who criticized you.
Please keep on being you and don’t let a few readers influence how you approach blogging.
So happy that the tests came back okay!!
i have a million things to say but i will refrain because with a 7 month old in the house my husband and I are trying not to curse anymore but -DARN!- people are so rude! This is your blog – your space – your life. Please – never apologize for how you felt – a sick child is never easy. When I had to take my daughter at 8 weeks to the ER, I was terrified! Did it end up being something little – yes – but I will never apologize for the tears my husband and I shed waiting around while they figured out what the heck was going on. The love you have for a child is unlike anything else – never apologize for your fears and being open about them.
Julie, I am so sorry to hear that a reader called into question something that you shared that was very scary, very real, and very sensitive; and feeling even worse that you felt the need to defend your decision. I’m sure it was a vulnerable time for you, and I think you were brave to share what was going on. I also understand why you may not want to share these things in the future, and that making these decisions as someone who writes about your personal life in a public way must not be easy. Of course, the MOST important thing is that Chase is okay. So happy for you and your family that this is the case, and saying prayers for you all that it stays that way. Everything else really pales in comparison.
I love reading your blog and go to it daily to see what you have in store for us! I don’t often comment, but felt compelled to do so today. I appreciated what your shared with us on the blog last week concerning Chase. I think it makes you human, real and relate-able. The first thing I did was start praying for you and that sweet little man of yours. Just know for every critical comment there are a TON of us who support your decisions to share what you want on your space. I think total transparency or nothing at all isn’t really fair to ask of someone. I think you can include people in your struggles without sharing every little personal, heart wrenching detail. What you shared was enough for me to know that you needed prayers and support, I didn’t have to know the specifics. It’s easy to focus on negative comments, but remember for every negative comment, there are lots of positives that aren’t written out. I hope you have an awesome weekend with your family! West Virginia is a beautiful state!
People can be so lame. Your eyebrows are awesome and so is your love for your family. Just own that and let the haters hate. You don’t want them as readers anyway! I’ve been reading your blog since college (!!!) and you’ve always been my favorite because of how authentic and honest you are. Don’t change!
I actually came here to tell you I bought those roolee moto leggings after your post two weeks ago and AMEN SISTER they are awesome. I feel super sexy in them and they are perfect as the weather in Colorado cools down. Thanks for the recco!!!
I have been needing to give my hair some TLC so I’m glad you mentioned the Moroccan oil because maybe that’s exactly what I need!! I feel like my hair has been falling out like crazy and breaking and it’s frizzy and just a hot mess over all, so I’m excited to give this a try. I know I’ve heard a lot of people rave about that stuff.
Like everyone else, I hate that you had to explain yourself regarding Chase’s health and why you were so vague. It made perfect sense to me why you’d want to share a scary time, but keep the details out of it and although I was very curious as most people were I’m sure, you certainly don’t have to explain yourself to me or anyone else. I appreciate your vulnerability because it’s so easy to assume that everyone on the other side of the screen lives a perfect life and never goes through struggles when that’s all that they portray. I know you talk a lot about Chase’s small size and it’s a concern you have, but I’m so thankful that he is healthy and all the results came back good! He’s so stinkin precious and I love that big smile he gives! Seeing him on snap chat is my fave!
Although you didn’t have to apologize like everyone says above, I do respect you for the response you provided. It was full of class and even though the comments you got were probably frustrating and to some degree made you angry, there was no sense of that in your response. I would have probably handled it with a lot less class, but that’s why I enjoy reading your blog because you’re certainly a blogger I look up to and want to strive to be more like. You’re kind hearted, full of energy, put your family first, and keep a positive vibe all around even during rough times (not talking bad about others or complaining about this or that all the time.) If I’m ever in the same situation, I hope I have the same class you did with this!
I completely DISAGREE with whoever left that comment. True, it’s a weird relationship we have (you, the blogger, and us, the reader) – I think sometimes we as readers feel entitled to information about your life, but that’s not fair. I think of this as a sort of “friendship”. Sometimes friends don’t want to dive into details, and all they really need is a hug. So anytime you need a virtual hug, that’s all you have to say and we are here for you! No questions asked.
I 100% agree with this! Thank you Vicki for putting how I’m sure many of us feel into words
Agree!! You’re entitled to share as much or as little as you like – I hope you don’t feel discouraged by the negative feedback. I’ve loved your blog for years and feel you handled the disclosure just right. You do you! <3
I absolutely agree with Vicki!! This is YOUR space to spare as much or little as you want. We are just happy to be along for the ride with you 🙂
I am with all the others that have been posting. I love your blog. You owe no apologies to anyone. You should share what you want and how much you want. I love that I feel like we’re friends even though I’ve never had the opportunity to meet you in person. I appreciate you sharing that you were having a hard week. That’s what makes this blog so relatable and I also like that you held back details that you felt were private to your family until you found out more. Please don’t stop sharing the vagueness either. Do what’s best for your family, but know that we’re ok with whatever information you choose to provide, whether it be all the info, some or none.
Thank you for opening up your life and home and letting us in. You make us readers feel like there’s someone else in this world that understands what we’re going through, how we’re feeling and that we’re not alone.
I second that! I was appalled when I read that someone wrote you that! Keep doing what you’re doing, I love your blog. I work in corporate wellness and always share your blog with my employees! 🙂
Enjoy your weekend away with your family and GREAT NEWS!
Appalled is the word I was thinking also!! Julie, this is your space and you can share whatever you feel necessary. NOTHING about your child’s health should be considered by others as “small”.
And a side note, I also was put off my someone commenting about your eyebrows!
Have a great weekend in WV!! After your stressful week, you deserve some relaxation!
I’ll never understand what a hard time some of your readers seem to give you. I think that out of all of the bloggers I read, you try your hardest to interact with readers and accept both positive/negative feedback. A lot of people seem to think that because bloggers choose to share their life in a public space that they must view themselves as perfect or aspirational, and I feel like that breeds resentment. Just because you try to create a positive space on your blog doesn’t mean that you think you are perfect or incapable of making mistakes. i think that you’ve handled people’s opinions – especially when they’re about motherhood and Chase (and even when they’re rude) – with a lot of grace. I don’t believe that you owe such people any headspace, especially when your focus is on your son. Just wanted to let you know that I love coming to a “feel good’ blog like yours and feel like your genuine appreciation for your readers and the opportunities the blog affords you always comes across.
Also, as someone who loves makeup/brows but doesn’t like to go too bold, I highly recommend Benefit’s Gimme Brow. It’s so easy – you just comb it through and it gives you a bit of definition without looking too done up. So great for a quick makeup look 🙂
Hi Julie,
As a long time reader of your blog I just had to comment about this post. I can not believe someone would even comment about the “vagueness” of your post about Chase. I love reading about your daily activities and seeing pictures of Chase, and I can relate to you as a fellow mother. I could sense how scared you were and even if it may be “little” in comparison to what other parents go through it was and is a BIG deal to you and I appreciate you for sharing what you did. This is your blog and you can share or not share in as much or as little detail as you want. I think your post was genuine and brave of you to even share with us. You should not have to worry about what others may think. One of the many reasons I read your blog on a daily basis is because you are true to who you are.
I’m so happy to hear the good news about Chases’ test results and that you can now relax and just enjoy this time with your beautiful family!
Julie, you do NOT need to explain yourself. You are a parent and were rightfully concerned with your son. Your blog is a piece of your life and it’s fair of you to share your fears, especially as you have been open with other struggles with parenting. That particular reader’s comment on full transparency or none at all is completely ridiculous – you are allowed privacy! You are choosing to post about aspects of your life and this is one aspect you have shared. I think your response was exceptionally appropriate, though it really shouldn’t have been needed in the first place. I thank you for sharing about your experience with Chase, as well as with the reader.
As always, you handle yourself with grace and poise. I did not feel the need for you to explain further and also know how scary any news big or small about your child’s health can be. However, I do want to recognize the effort you took to reach out and stay connected with some of your readers. Your words were sincere and genuine.
Have a great family vacation!!!
I cannot add anything that hasn’t already been said, so allow me to re-iterate. 🙂 Your blog is loved! YOU are loved! Keep on shining, Julie!
I also disagree about the reader’s comment. You own this blog, you get to decide what you put on it. I appreciated the personal insight you gave. As a new mom, if I received news like you did, I would’ve been scared too and would want to share with those that have become like family. Sharing news like this brings people together to pray for you and your family, and there’s so much power in prayer! I really hope the criticism doesn’t keep you from sharing personal mommy experiences.
First of all I’m so happy the results came back in your favor. Chase is such a cutie! I’m sorry you had to receive comments like the one above. It’s your blog and you can do whatever you want! I’m not a blogger and honestly I only read about three different blogs. Probably because most I come across seem too fake, too perfect and too annoying to keep me interested. You and the other two bloggers I read are the type of people I would love to run into, give a tour of my town, have a drink! At the same time I know that blogs are blogs and we only see a small portion of someone’s life and this small portion is what they choose to share. They do not owe readers anything. I can’t imagine being a blogger and dealing with comments like that. I wouldn’t be so nice. Thanks for sharing your portion and being yourself. I wish you and your family the best of luck in the future. Enjoy your trip!
You should be proud of the way you responded to such comments. My daughters test results could have been perfectly normal, they could have “paled in comparison” to what other parents were facing… should I have not asked for prayers because I didn’t know what the outcome of the testing would be? As someone who lost a child to illness, I do not think for a second you were not justified in your feelings and I am grateful you shared. I hope you were not discouraged by the negative posts. While I love the fitness aspect of your blog – the connection to it comes from the personal side. I’ve followed your blog since your engagement.. I’ve smiled for your sons birth and felt heartbroken for you when you lost your grandmother… and when I read your post about your health scare with Chase, I didn’t feel angered by it, I felt as if you were doing what any good mom would when they’re afraid for their child… you ask for prayers… you freak out… you panic. You’re a good momma… and a great blog writer. I look forward to many more joy filled posts, seeing Chase off to Kindergarten… baby #2, more Sadie birthday campaigns… but I also hope you find comfort in knowing your blog family is here to pray and support you when you need it as well – not pick apart your posts shared when you were vulnerable.
What hiking backpack did you get? My hubby and I have been searching but don’t feel like we’ve found the perfect one yet.
I’m sorry you felt like you had to give a response or that you did something wrong somehow in how you announced the news. This is your space to share and while people are free to comment, you don’t “owe” any explanations. Of course I was interested in knowing more about the situation and concerned for you and your family, but I respect that you only wanted to share what you felt comfortable with. This is coming from someone who has dealt with multiple very serious familial health issues. Thanks for everything you do share! I love reading your blog.
Julie,
I have been reading your blog for as long as I can remember and I appreciate your authenticity. It is really super weird to feel like you know someone who you don’t actually know and I thank you for really putting yourself out there.
What you wrote about and experienced is absolutely appreciated and don’t let anyone invalidate your feelings. You should share what you want to share and know that being more open will always open you to the type of comments that you received. I have never felt that you didn’t truly appreciate what you have and I think most of us were genuinely hoping that everything was okay for you.
I don’t even have a child yet but I do have a dog and will cry in my office on the days she is sick. I can’t stand her being in pain or the thought of something happening to her. I can’t even imagine what you must have felt like not knowing what was happening with Chase.
I recently went through a HUGE life change and constantly tried to tell people it was okay because people were going through so much worse and my true friends kept reminding me that I was completely within my right to feel my pain and that others shouldn’t make me feel guilty about it. I hope you can feel the same.