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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Julie, I just wanted to say THANK YOU! Thank you for be so real with us. I relate to you so much because my 7 mo old daughter is very much like Chase…Small (which worries me) but a happy ball of energy. When I read that your scare involved Chase I was curious as to what was going on, but I never felt so entitled to ask or make a snotty comment to you. Instead I prayed. I prayed hard for all of you. There’s so much power in prayer, so I hope you will still share your lows so we can all lift you up!
Julie, I felt the need to comment because I’ve read your blog for years now and I think it’s important to remember that its YOUR blog. As a reader, I too was curious about the vague bad things happening but I also knew that when you were ready, you would most likely share what was/is going on in your life. You have every right to your own privacy in handling those difficult situations and you always handle them gracefully. I hope you didn’t receive too much “constructive feedback” or whatever you want to call mean comments like that. I respect your decision to not share your sons health issues in the future BUT I appreciate your candidness. Life isn’t always rosey and you always take an honest and very real approach to everything. I pray chase continues to grow into a healthy young man!
I’ve never commented on your blog before but as an on and off reader of 6 years I felt compelled to say something regarding your response to that other commenter. I’ve enjoyed your blog so much, in fact you’re the only blog I read religiously now, because of how real you are about everything. Everything you post is real and true to your feelings and is not fake and trying to put on a show of a perfect life like a lot of other blogs I’ve read before. I can understand how other readers may have felt about the vagueness of the situation and I respect whatever decision you make regarding future private issues. But I wanted to just let you know that I disagree 100% with that commenter. I think the fact that you’re able to share some scary or not so great times is what makes your blog unique and different and it allows readers to offer support and encouragement in those times. I don’t believe any of us are entitled to full details unless you chose to share them, what’s your business is your business, but I appreciate your honesty about things. Once again whatever your decision about what to do in future situations is all yours and I support that but I love being able to provide long distance encouragement in those times and I don’t mind the vagueness at all.
Hi Julie,
I have been a reader now for about 6 months or so. I found your site from Fitnessista. As a mother to a 17 month old girl, I highly enjoy your posts about Chase. 🙂
I never comment on the blogs I read, but I felt very strongly that I wanted to share my thoughts concerning what the other reader wrote….I most definitely DISAGREE with “full transparency or none at all.” As a mother, you are protecting your son and your family with the information you choose to share publicly. As a fellow mom, I am thankful when other mothers are honest about the difficult things we face. It does not matter how “small” the situation may seem to others. Fact is, whatever happens to your own child is in NO way “small.” So, anything you choose to share on this space should be done with the “transparency” YOU choose. I thank you for your honesty with your recent posts, and I want you to know you were in my prayers.
Hi Julie! I totally understand your wish to keep health issues private in the future. The unknowns in health are so scary and mentally exhausting, and the last thing you need during a time like that is to be criticized. However, please, PLEASE know that you have hundreds (probably even thousands!) of people that love your blog, love your family, and want to hold you up with love, encouragement and prayers during all parts of life. The good and the bad. We come to your blog everyday as a friend, and friends come alongside each other and lift them up when they’re down. They trust and believe with you that GOOD news is to come! That is what we want to give you during times like this.
You don’t deserve to forfeit countless prayers just because of a handful of people. I believe so much in the power of prayer, and the endless prayers your family received over the past week undoubtedly contributed to Chase’s good report. I know I am only one of many that thought about and prayed for you guys repeatedly <3
Whatever you decide, just know that you have a community of people that support you. I admire your grace and class in how you handle issues like this. Thank you for being YOU–that’s why we come back every day 🙂
Holy shit, why would someone write those things? I completely disagree with those negative comments about what you posted. It’s your blog, your post, your words. If someone doesn’t like it or disagrees with it, they should kindly move on, not criticize. I feel you should share as much or as little as you wish. We as readers accept that. I pray for your family and hope you get all the positive answers you need for your sweet boy. I do not, nor will I ever, judge your posts or opinions or how much or little you share, because it’s my choice to be here as a reader. And I love your blog. Chin up and carry on warrior !
Julie I feel and hope that the majority and the happiest of your blog readers support you no matter what you choose to share or not share. I know I do! This is YOURS and you should say whatever you want to say about your life to your supporters and readers. I absolutely disagree with whomever wrote that comment or anything similar to that.
I have loved reading this blog for years-it’s the only one I read! I’ll continue to read it no matter what you choose as long as it’s your choice. We are here to support you in any way we can! I know we are all happy for you and your good news about Chase 🙂 he’s so precious!
Have SUCH a fun vacation!! 🙂
I can’t believe someone would write that to you. One of my favorite things about your blog is how authentic you are and sometimes that includes negative things that you don’t want to explain fully and that’s okay. I think you handled it perfectly the first time. I’m glad you shared what you did so I could keep your family in my prayers.
I agree with all of the wonderful comments today – you are an inspiration! The reason you have us all as followers is because we love to have someone to relate to in good times and bad, that we respect, admire and feel is a friend. You do all of those things so well, don’t let minority commenters bring down your spirit that we all find so contagious!
You do you – and be proud of the space you’ve created for all of us!
As a long time reader, I think you handled the worry you had about Chase with grace, and as authentically as you could. We are all only human and you can’t please everyone, no point in trying. You have to be yourself and that is why I love your blog so much, we get to know YOU. Just keep doing what you are doing, the universe applauds you! All these positive comments show that. Much love, enjoy your vacation!
I hope you have a fabulous trip Julie! Soak in the outdoors and family time. In regards to the comments on your blog…any other mother out there would understand what you’re going through. I cry at the mere thought of something happening to my children’s health and well-being. I would take a bullet for them. Even when they are sick with something as trivial as the stomach flu I wish I could trade places with them. What you felt was real, and you (and your husband) are the only people who get to decide how much or little to share and when and where. It’s unfair for someone to trivialize your struggles because theirs may be worse. You are an amazing momma! I will pray for Chase and his follow up testing, and your heart through it all.
I personally think the readers’ feedback was insensitive and as the blogger, you decide what to share versus what not to share. Thanks for being so open with your readers about your life! I’ve followed for the past 3-4 years and although we’ve never met, you feel like a friend. I’m glad to hear the good news about Chase!
Also, my parents live in WV and I can’t say enough good things about the state. I’ve never been to Snowshoe before but I’m sure it’ll be a great time!
Goodness, you should not have to apologize to anyone! Putting your life out there for anyone to criticize is not easy, let alone discussing health issues related to your most precious possession. You keep on doing you, Julie! You are so positive and I’ve enjoyed your blog for many years. So glad you got good news regarding Chase!
So funny you’re headed to Snowshoe – we’re going next week for Labor Day weekend! I’ve been there many times, but only in the winter to snowboard. We’re planning on doing lake activities (like stand-up paddle boarding), hiking and just relaxing (I’m 6 months pregnant so this is a babymoon I guess). The village area of Snowshoe is cute with a number of tasty restaurants, and probably way less crowded in the summer. We’ll also have our dog. I’ll be curious to see what you end up doing, maybe it’ll give us some ideas!
That is unbelievable to me that someone would actually take time to write that instead of just saying a simple prayer for you and your family. This is your blog and yours to share with us what you wish, and in any aspect you wish. As an avid reader (and someone who crazily feels like I actually know you), my heart was aching for you no matter what the situation was. Of course, I was curious, but knew you would share when it felt right to you. Don’t take those comments to heart, because those of us that love and support you understand completely 🙂
Julie! As a loyal blog reader, I thought the way you shared your fears regarding Chase was just fine. I’m sorry others felt differently. Please continue to share your journey with us , whether it be vague or not 🙂
Hi Julie!
As a blog reader for many years, I’ve so enjoyed your recipes,workouts, and a peak into your everyday life! I am also a new mom of an 11 month old and have loved being able to read your blog through pregnancy and the numerous adventures that come with bringing home your first little miracle. I have actually never left a comment before, but seeing your post today struck a chord with me. I am honestly in shock people can feel so entitled to such private information. I, along with numerous other normal blog readers, feel that you handled sharing your experience with Chase’s health beautifully and never felt like I deserved any more information than what you chose to give. This is an outlet for you to share that you’ve had a hard week and give details that you and your family are comfortable with. Your experience does not take away from other people’s struggles or mitigate more “serious” health concerns. This is your blog, your life, and your content. No explanation necessary. Please know that the majority of your blog readers do not feel this way, and you should continue sharing what you, your husband, and family feel comfortable with!
Love your blog and hope you have a fabulous and much deserved vacay 🙂
I 100% agree with these comments! Part of the reason I love reading your blog is because it feels real! I can imagine that you are very much the same in-person as you come across on your blog, and the fact that you share the ups and the downs makes it all the more real. There will always be people who disagree, but the bottom line is this is YOUR blog. Nothing you said was insensitive or inappropriate AT ALL. If people feel differently, and they are not comfortable with that level of sharing, then they shouldn’t be reading your blog (and probably no ones blog, since all blogs are about that on some level). YOU DO YOU GIRL! Clearly it’s been working for you thus far. 😉
Goodness! I feel like it’s incredibly gracious of you to share what you do with us. You don’t know most of us personally and I think it’s incredibly brave to allow us (a bunch of strangers) a peek into your life; the good, the bad & the ugly.
We all deal with our feelings in different ways, but I feel as though the comment was a bit harsh. I stumbled on the blog 4 years ago while trying to figure out how to pack for 2 weeks in Europe. The blog immediately drew me in & now I just can’t quit you. I love your writing style & everything you share with us.
I for one am thrilled that things seem to be ok and I hope you continue to be your self on the blog.
Have a great weekend!
I hope the WV weather is good for you this weekend. I visit Snowshoe Mtn several times during the summer for cross country and downhill mountain biking and road riding, but the hiking is great too. There’s a trail that meanders around the lake. You can also hike up Airport for a great view of the mountain as well as 6000 steps and the Fingers. You can ask the folks at the Depot for hiking recommendations. Pay the money for the lift pass to take you down to the lake where there’s a beach and play area for kids. The lift on the Western Territory is longer and the view is beautiful so I’d take that too, although not much to see at the bottom except some muddy bikers. The inflatables in the lake are fun and challenging for adults. For a sweet treat, the waffle shack on the Basin side of the mountain is great. You can get affordable eats at Old Spruce and FoxFire in the Village and Trailside across from the Western Territory lifts. If you want to travel off mountain a few miles, Cass Scenic Railroad has tours on the old coal train and the Fiddlehead Restaurant and Bar is another affordable option for food. If Elk River Touring Center is offering dinner right now, it’s highly recommended though a bit pricier – it about 9 miles from the top of the mountain past Fiddlehead. Sorry for such a sporadic thought process, but I’m just adding tidbits as I think of them.
If either you or your husband are going to rent a bike and haven’t downhilled before, start with Easy Street and Dreamweaver trails on the Basin side and Skyline on the Western Territory. These are flow trails but can still be challenging so watch your speed and don’t be pressured into riding something you aren’t comfortable with. The cross country trails are awesome, but you’ll need someone who knows the area to show you how to get there. Have a great time. WV is beautiful.
Julie- I LOVE following your blog and reading about your life because it’s real and relatable and you shouldn’t have to withhold feelings and huge things that are going on in your life from this blog. You did not over share and you were not too vague. Honestly it makes you more relatable as a person that every single post isn’t about a perfect day. Nobody’s life is perfect and we’re supposed to be here to support each other. Please keep sharing!
I can’t even believe that someone would leave that comment! Shame on them. If someone feels uncomfortable with how you’re handling a very PERSONAL topic, then they can X out and not read your blog or the post. It’s completely ridiculous that someone had the nerve to make you feel put down for sharing your feelings and trying to be vulnerable, but at the same time protect the privacy of your child and family! I support you Julie, blog on mama, don’t let anyone make you question your heart!!
To echo many of those above me, this is YOUR space. Was I curious to know more about what was happening? Sure. But sometimes, you have the information you have, and that’s it. Life can be vague sometimes. And you just send a hug & a prayer & you figure it out when you know more.
While I can understand how in the future you may not want to discuss these things, I hope it’s not because of these comments left for you. But because you & Ryan truly feel it’s what’s best for your family. It seems as though the comments and prayers sent your way lifted your spirits, I don’t know how that could ever be a bad thing.
Either way, love this blog, love this space you’ve created – keep on keepin’ on. And enjoy that vacay as a family of FOUR!
^what everyone else said! I have noticed that you can’t say anything in this day and age without offending someone. There is a new sensitivity that has evolved.
As a long time reader and mother myself, I thought your post was just fine and I truly sympathized with you. This is your blog. You do you.
Hi Julie! I am so happy the results you got for Chase were good! I’m praying for you guys and hope you continue to receive good news! This is your space and I’m sure a majority of your readers understand your reasonings for being somewhat vague. I would not worry too much about comments like that because you are allowed to say whatever you do (or don’t) want. I completely respect your desire for privacy while also being authentic and genuine enough to let on that there is something going on. Plus that allows us to pray for you and whatever may be happening.
Also, question about the benefit brows – did you every try their precision brow pencil? I’m debating between that and the gel liner you bought. I was wondering if you tried both out and preferred the gel, or what your thoughts were!
Happy Friday, I hope you guys have a wonderful weekend 🙂
I have to agree with those leaving comments above, I wholeheartedly disagree with the comment you mentioned in today’s post! This is your space, and as a reader I feel not only loyal, but honored to be able to get a glimpse into your day to day life and I am constantly learning so many great things from you! I appreciate your honesty and even when you have to be vague sometimes, I took your post as a request for kind thoughts and prayers, and I certainly prayed over and over for your little family that everything would be okay. I can’t imagine how scary that experience was and I truly appreciate you sharing it here- as mama’s it can be so easy to feel helpless and lost when we can’t make something better for our babies.
I love love love this blog and I truly hope you always feel comfortable sharing what you’re going through, even if you can’t share all of the details!
Have a wonderful weekend away 🙂
The fact that you are feeling like you have to apologize for being scared for your son is beyond words. It is sad and upsetting on so many different levels. People get scared when their child has a cold, let alone the thought of a serious illness. The word disease is scary enough to turn anyone into a ball of nerves, and the fact that it’s out of your control and you were left ‘unknown’ for so long causes so much anxiety.
I understand that some people are faced with very significant health concerns but it does not mean that your feelings and your fears should in any way be discounted. I’m very empathetic and sympathetic to anyone going through a struggle. You should feel comfortable to share your life and thoughts and fears on your blog in any way you want. Gosh, I’m just so applaud and really hope you don’t feel bad. Your fears with Chase are real and justified, you handled it well and no one should judge another for how they handle a situation.
I’m so glad that Chase is ok. I also believe that you are allowed to share or NOT share anything you want! The blog is yours. Tough times aren’t a contest either. Three years ago my dad had a thoracic aortic aneurysm repair and valve replacement and I was a mess before surgery knowing as a blood banker exactly how scary aneurysms are and that he might not make it. Turns out my fears were almost realized when the graft didn’t hold and he was massively bleeding out. The hospital staff was preparing us for the worst outcome while desperately working to save his life. My stress and worry were no less valid because he survived and others were not so lucky, anymore than yours was because some parents are facing worse health problems with their kids! Sharing our stories fully or in part can make us feel less alone and good vibes being sent your way never hurt!
Ok that just makes me mad. Being a mom is hard enough, especially when you are worried about your little one. The absolute LAST thing you need is to be stressed out because someone didn’t like how you presented the information on your own space. To be honest, I think this person is just nosy. I don’t understand why what you have been going through has to be compared to what others may be facing with their own children. Am I not allowed to be concerned when my child has a high fever because it’s “just” an infection and not cancer? That is ridiculous. It’s clear from reading your blog that you are a very compassionate and caring person and would never want to downplay some other parent’s struggle. You carry on and do what you feel is right and what makes you feel true to you and don’t worry about what others think. XOXO
Julie, as a loyal reader and mother big tears being shed here sixteen year old today son and almost eleven year old. I think you share what you feel approriate in that moment for you and your family. I enjoy your blog immensely. You should not be shamed or ridiculed for what you share. As I tell my boys “Haters are going to hate. Some will voice it others will keep it private. ” Enjoy this weekend in away with your family. And know that you have prayers coming for your family from a fan in Eugene, Oregon.
I also agree that I enjoy reading your blog BECAUSE of the way you are authentic and keep it real with your posts. There are so many “lifestyle” bloggers out there that I enjoy recipes from or workout ideas, but the way you post these types of subject matters as well as personal information and stories about your own family is the reason your blog is one of my top three favorites (along with Daily Garnish and CupofJo)! I think you’ll know in your gut what to share and what not too. Keep up the great writing!
I feel that you owe no apology. This is your blog and you are entitled to share what you want. Whether it be too little or too much. As a mother that is currently awaiting blood results for her 15 month old son I can relate with what you are going through. It is nice to have support during times like this. Our minds have a way of taking over and sometimes just talking about it or having a distraction helps to ease our minds even if only for a brief moment. It is also comforting to know that other momma’s are going through similar situations. I also understand that families all have different situations going on but please don’t think that your situation with Chase is any less important or seems small. This is your baby and it is okay to fear for him. That is what momma’s are for. You are his advocate. Try to take your mind off of things and enjoy your vacation!
Julie- I absolutely LOVE reading your blog. I have a daughter who is a couple months younger than Chase and even without the scares of blood tests, you sometimes wonder if you are doing the right thing or challenging them enough. I LOVE that this is a space in which you share those things- big and small. Some of the things that you share and worry about are the SAME things that I as a new mom worry about. It makes your blog so authentic and real. No one’s lives are perfect and some people’s worries and struggles are bigger than others’, but that should not stop YOU from sharing YOUR story. Please keep sharing!!!
I just want to throw in my two cents of support for you. As a first time mom, my baby is now 6-months old, I can’t imagine how you felt when getting news like that. I had my heart in my throat when I was reading through your news. You did not come of as comparing yourself to others at all either. If that reader is a mom, she should know that all we think about is our baby’s health and how your feelings were completely genuine and how any mother would feel when getting news like that. I have two friends who have lost their kid’s around the age of two, and they have never once made me feel bad about having a healthy child. Each of us have our own struggles and just because some might not be as serious as others, doesn’t mean they still don’t feel monumental to us. So, hopefully, you don’t feel bad about sharing your experience. To be honest, it only shows that not everything is perfect and everybody is dealt a different hand.
Hope future tests yield positive results for Chase and have a blast this weekend!
I hope that person’s comment and the others like it don’t change your approach to things. What they said was unnecessary in my opinion. It doesn’t even make sense for them to complain about you being vague on your own blog. You can do whatever you want! I really, really appreciated your authenticity and I honestly sent several real prayers up for you.
Love you friend! Enjoy your weekend in WV and your adorable family. <3
1. Last weekend was so fun. Let’s do it again ASAP.
2. I’m baffled by the snap about your eyebrows.. seriously. But I use Benefit’s Gimme Brow and LOVE it!!
3. You DON’T need to apologize for sharing about Chase. You were scared and upset and it would have been inauthentic to post something happy go lucky when you and your family were concerned. I think asking for a blogger to be 100% transparent or not share anything at all is prosperous.
4. Have fun this weekend! Can’t wait to see this snazzy hiking backpack. 🙂
I appreciate you addressing everything so openly. Motherhood is tough and making it public has to be even tougher. You should never feel guilty on what you share here!
Jeez!!! I know many readers before me have said the same, but this is your space, I don’t think anyone has the right to demand full transparency about anything you decide to share with us. I’m sure there are many more like me, who follow your blog and social media on a daily basis and love it just as it is.
One of the things I love the most about your blog is how you share many personal aspects of your life as they happen. As a new mom (my baby boy is a few months younger than Chase) I am learning from your experiences and I would be sorry to miss any updates about your wonderful baby as he grows up.
BTW I was fine not knowing any more details about Chases medical condition, I was just glad you were relieved by the results.
Kisses for your baby, since having my baby I turned into All-The-Babies-Fan #1 😉
some people always have to be a critic. I think to be that critical of how someone handles a real life event is just downright cruel. You share in your own way, honestly it would have turned me off for you to have pretended everything is hunky dory when its not… one of my favorite parts of your blog is how you don’t try and sugar coat everything as perfect and wonderful 100% of the time, while still maintaining such an optimistic world view. Everyone deals with things in different ways, and it’s a lot easier to criticize someone for how they post than it is to actually figure out how to address a situation where so much of your life is on view.
You do you, don’t let negative people bring you down! I felt so much happiness when I saw your post the other day that everything came back relatively okay. I think you were vague in a way that made it clear there was something serious at risk and you were taking time to deal with your family, as it should be. Enjoy your trip!
Once again…. it amazes me how readers will tell a blogger what he/she should or could do on THEIR Blog. Geeez!! It’s YOUR Blog Julie ~ you keep sharing how much, or how little, you feel comfortable with.
Have a great weekend.
xo
I think you handled this perfectly the first time!! While I respect your decision to keep things private in the future if that is what you want, I think there was no reason to elaborate more the first time and I didn’t take it as being vague at all. Private stuff is private stuff!!!! Especially because you were worried and didn’t have answers, I cannot blame you one bit for not opening up more! It is your blog and whatever degree of sharing you do with us is your choice – we will be loyal regardless! So glad Chase’s results were ok and I will keep keeping you and your family in our prayers!
I am a regular reader and have never commented, but I felt compelled to after you had to explain why you were vague about your post about your son. It boggles my mind that anybody would feel the need to complain about you not posting more, or feel like you were being rude to those that are having more troubles. In no way, shape, or form did you say anything about anyone else struggling — you simply stated how scared you were, which I can’t even imagine how scared you were. My dog had some bad blood work (everything is okay), but it freaked me out beyond belief. I’m sure you can understand that with Sadie, but I know when it’s your child it’s completely different.
My husband and I have been trying to have a baby for a year now, but at no point when I read your concerns was I like “well at least she has a child”, my only concern was that your son would be okay. My struggle is no harder than your struggle, and in the same way others struggles are no harder than yours. I understand why you felt compelled to explain yourself, but I wanted you to know you have plenty (as I’ve read through some of the positive comments above) of readers who only wish happiness for you and your family no matter what they’re struggling with!
As a mom too, I felt comfort in hearing that there are others that worry about their child’s health as much as I do! My son has had some health scares, too. I find you more relatable after you shared your concerns with Chase. We are all parents just doing the best we can, I wish others wouldn’t judge so much. The world would be a happier place.
Just throwing my two cents in. I think you did NOTHING wrong with how you handled that situation. You’re allowed to share what you want because it is your blog! I really like your blog because you’re open and honest about real life.
I hope you share in the future what you want, and how you want! <3
Julie, I’m sorry you had to deal with negativity when you should have been receiving prayers and support! I love love love your blog and one of the reasons that I love it, is because you are genuine and authentic!
Also, I appreciated your vagueness. As a blogger myself, I wouldn’t have wanted to share details either until I knew what the results were going to be and until I felt comfortable with sharing everything with my blogging community. Just know you have support!
Have a great weekend!!
I couldn’t agree more. AFTER you know the results of a major scare it is much easier to say something like that. But what if you didn’t get good news on the test results, then would that comment still be valid? There are always a few outcomes to a given situation. Without getting into details and making this about me, all I can do is say that I have been there. I wanted to comment and tell you I went through something similar in the sense that I could either get bad news or good news with my son. I was scared and I wanted to believe I would get good news but I couldn’t help but to cry over the thought of not getting good news. I wasn’t emotionally ready to share the details of that situation with everyone, I could hardly tell my mom without crying. My coworkers were aware something was going on with my youngest and never once did they pressure me for more details. The only person that wanted to know everything was my sister-in-law because she is an ER nurse and wanted to get answers herself and understand the situation better and she was amazing giving me advice and little clues on reasons I should try not to worry.
I just ask this, what if you got the results and it was not the good news that you received? Would that comment be valid then? I don’t think it would. Yes, you guys are blessed and lucky to have received good news and not everyone does. But that does not trivialize the fears and emotions that your family endured until you heard that news. Every family has those same fears and thoughts until they find out the news. It is not fair that some people get good news and some people get bad news. Getting good news does not belittle those who get bad news. To feel slighted by not having full transparency of another persons blog is outrageous. YES, you have shared your life with your readers, I am new to your blog. But I saw your blog first for your fitness workouts and your life events is an added bonus. But it is YOUR life and you deserve the privacy of being able to handle a scary situation in the way that best suits you. You do have a blog and you shared you guys were going through something and it was hard to focus on anything else. Hearing anything shy of your baby is doing awesome is not pleasant news. My oldest had to get tubes at 13 months, he had to be put under. That terrified me. I got tubes at 9 months, I had to be put under to, my mom was trying to reassure me it was going to fine, I was fine. But I still worried the entire time. It’s what we do. It is because we love them whole heartedly and we cannot even imagine anything terrible happening where our hug and kiss can’t make it better, and when it can’t, your heart breaks some. Yes, people get bad news and they still go through the same emotions leading up to that. Yes, they have a much harder road because they didn’t get good news and I cannot imagine having to be that strong of a person to deal with any of it… but I do know, if I got bad news and someone I knew got good news I would not bring them down but I would be happy that they did not have to deal with what I am going through and I would ask them to pray for my family so that we kind find a new normal and a new way of doing things.
I am sorry you had to have those fears and emotions, I know how hard that is. I am truly glad you guys got good news. The way you handled it was perfectly fine and it was the only way you knew how at the time. In hindsight, it’s easy to say maybe you should have done something differently and it doesn’t really matter. You handled it how you could when you were in the middle of it and that is all that should ever be asked. To be you and who you are and who you are comfortable with.
There was absolutely nothing wrong with your original post. This is your space. You shouldn’t feel the need to justify what you wanted to write in your space. Every family goes through different problems. That doesn’t take away from your struggles. If I had a health scare with my daughter, I would be terrified. It’s sad that you feel like you have to analyze and edited yourself. Keep doing you. I love reading your blog!
Julie – I hope you will continue to be authentic and do what is right for YOU on this blog. At the time you were worried over your son’s health, I was worried over my own as well; I have had a tumor growing for 3 years on my thyroid that was this week found to be malignant (cancerous).
At no time did I feel your authenticity or concern for your own family belittled or had anything to do with my own. Rather, it comforted me to know that I was not the only person alive anxiously awaiting doctor words that would change my life. At the end of the day we are all human, and the beautiful thing about humans, for me, is that we connect through shared experiences. As I move forward into uncharted territory in my life, I want to thank you for always sharing your own with us all; when I read your blog I feel like I’m talking to a best friend, and it always gives me peace and love.
Lots of love from TX! <3
Just wanted to second all of the above comments- I really appreciated your vulnerability and letting us into your world when it’s not all shiny and perfect (which is what a lot of bloggers would do). I’ve been reading your blog for like 4 years and it’s meant a lot to me to have someone represent life’s ups and downs in an honest way.
I also agree with everyone else that it’s your space and you can share as much as you want or don’t want on here. I completely understand it’s got to be a struggle to balance being authentic and also protecting your family.
Keep doing you because this blog is truly awesome!