Goodbye 2017, Hello 2018

I think the craziest thing about it being 2018 is that we’re just two years away from 2020…and, for some reason, that makes me feel really old.  However, one thing I definitely realized in 2017 is that age is just a number.  I’m a 35 year old blogger, which in blogging years is, like, 90.  I spent the first half of 2017 comparing myself to those who are younger in my industry which, frankly, seems to be almost everyone.  It was only when I decided to stop comparing myself (or my age) to everyone else and start investing my time on the readers/followers that I have, that I started to feel accomplished.  I began to feel fulfilled and I realized that, at any age, we ALL have something to offer.

2017, for me, started off rocky.  Not only did I feel as though I may never make it as a blogger, I was always annoyed that my house was constantly a mess, Kyle and I were arguing all the time, and I just felt like everything in my life was failing.  I started to become very diligent in my prayers.  Asking God to give me direction and, more so, determination.  Help me.  Guide me.  Change me.  Light a big fire under my ass.  I felt like I had so much to give, but I couldn’t seem to get anything in my life to go right.  I didn’t feel really fulfilled.  It’s not that I was miserable or depressed, but I just didn’t feel truly fulfilled or accomplished, if that makes sense, with work or my marriage.

Fast forward to around June of last year.  I slowly started seeing my mindset start to shift.  For my business, I stopped focusing on what I didn’t have (x amount of readers/followers, particular brand opportunities, etc.) and I started to focus on what I DID have.  I stopped stalking everyone else’s picture-perfect feed and started building relationships with the women who did enjoy what I had to offer.  I stopped worrying about not being this “29 year old beauty queen with a perfectly polished home” and started embracing the fact that I’m a hot mess who doesn’t wash her hair everyday and wears the same jeans three days in a row.  It was liberating.  Slowly and surely, I started to feel connected with my readers and I couldn’t wait to wake up each morning and start working!   I realized that being genuine and exposing your true self is something much more to be proud of than just “painting a pretty picture”.  I busted my ass in 2017 and promised myself to always be authentic, to not just do what everyone else was doing, and start my own path.  35 or 55, I can DO IT!  We all can!

God has put some INCREDIBLE women in my life through The Sister Studio.  I spend hours everyday chatting with them via email, in my Facebook Group, and/or Instagram direct message.  They’re uplifting, helpful, encouraging, and incredibly supportive.  And what makes me so happy is that they truly have my back and they don’t judge me when I open up about the not-so-perfect things in my life.  I cherish this blog and all of my social media platforms and every single person who follows along.  Truthfully, career wise, I have never been this happy in my life!  THANK YOU to everyone reading this.  I really and truly wish I could sit down and have coffee with each and every one of you.  Oh, and hug you….the biggest and tightest hug, EVER.

Okay, back to 2017.  So, with this new found determination (thank you, Lord, for answering my prayers), I was determined to kick my marriage into gear.  Kyle and I had talks about what and why our marriage seemed to be so lackluster and we made promises to hear each other out and to start making our marriage a bigger priority…actually, to make it the BIGGEST priority.  Yes, we still have times that aren’t as glorious as others, we still have disagreements, but I feel like our relationship is the best it’s been in a very long time.  I feel incredibly + genuinely happy in my marriage!

One big lesson I’ve learned about marriage is that if either person isn’t happy with themselves, it’s hard (nearly impossible) to make a relationship work.  We both had areas in our life that we weren’t happy with and, in turn, it took a tole on how we were with each other.  You have to take care of  YOU before you can truly take care of someone else.  Kyle couldn’t expect me to make him happy, he needed to be happy with himself and vice versa.  We had to be happy with ourselves before we could be happy with each other.  This may seem like common knowledge, but, somewhere along the way, we loss sight of that.  I’m thankful that we were able to work through a rough season of marriage because, truthfully, things won’t always be perfect.  One thing is for sure, though, we love each other fiercely and there is no one else that I would rather do life with!

For what started out as such a crappy year, I think 2017 ended pretty great.  It was definitely very challenging at times, but I learned a LOT last year.  So, what’s my goal for 2018?  To live BIG!  As I mentioned on my New Year’s post (here):  I encourage everyone to live BIG in 2018.  We have one life, sisters.  ONE LIFE.   Chase your dreams!  That little voice inside you isn’t so little at all.  It’s God and he is leading you and what better leadership could you ask for?  Take the leap and let your light shine!  Don’t let anyone or anything diminish your spirit.  And don’t forget to have FUN and laugh as much as possible.  Take a trip and buy the shoes.  Stop following anyone on social media who makes you second guess how wonderful you are.  We’re all losing our shit, some just hide it better than others.  But, fear not, just because we’re losing our shit, this doesn’t mean we can’t accomplish BIG things…because we can and we will.  Just remember that you have one life…live it BIG.

Happy 2018, friends!  I’m so excited to see what God has in store for all of us!

Hi, I'm Jen!

I'm a mom of two who lives on coffee (and wine) and a lot of humor! If you enjoy affordable + achievable style, then you're in the right place. I'm so glad you're here!

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165 Comments

  1. I love this post (and YOU!) I could not be more happy for you in the things you have accomplished in 2017, and I know 2018 will be that much better!! Love you and so thankful that you share your heart, style and encouragement here!

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
    • Thank you so much, Bethany!! Love you to the moon!

      Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  2. Stephanie wrote:

    Love it girlie!!

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  3. Madisyn Smith wrote:

    love love love this!!????

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  4. Traci wrote:

    So funny that you talk about age & not feeling good enough. I’m 44 & sometimes feel like I shouldn’t be reading some of the blogs I do because the blogger is younger than me. Like you! LOL! A goal for me in 2018 is NOT to worry so much about what other people think. Love your blog & your honesty!

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
    • Same here! Who cares, right? Age shmage! 😉

      Posted 1.3.18 Reply
    • Donna Simpson wrote:

      I’ll make you feel young, I’m 59! I have three daughters around your age and like following some of their favorite bloggers. One of my daughters told me today she liked my shirt and said “You’re so trendy!” And I asked her if I was too trendy for a grandma (I have six adorable grandchildren) and she said “No!” I rely on my girls to keep me in check, I like clothes and keeping up with things but don’t want to dress too young. Anyway, I just found your instagram recently and from there your blog. You seem very sweet and I really enjoy it.

      Posted 1.4.18 Reply
  5. Angie Brown wrote:

    Love following you!

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
    • Thank you so much, Angie!! xo!

      Posted 1.3.18 Reply
      • Kelly Vargas wrote:

        Love your post! I am a recent follower and really enjoy the good deals and cute outfits you share, but also love your fun and authentic posts ?? Wishing you a blessed 2018!

        Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  6. Marisa wrote:

    Though I’m not married or have kids, your words of advice have encouraged me immensely! Through all the ups and downs in life, the reminder to Live BIG seems to always give me the greatest sense of strength, boost of confidence and utmost appreciation for this beautiful life journey.
    Thank you, Jen for always being real and honest, encouraging (whether you realize it or not), FUN, and our sister from far away 🙂 Happy 2018!! ?

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
    • Thank you SO much!! I can’t wait for all of the BIG living we’ll do in 2018! CHEERS!

      Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  7. Nikki wrote:

    Hi Jen!

    I’m new to reading your blog but i can totally relate to a lot in this post. Sometimes i spend so much time comparing myself to others & thinking i don’t have/do enough that i completely forget how great things are for me! Here’s to an awesome 2018!

    XO

    Nikki

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
    • Thank you, Nikki! Wishing you an amazing (and very BIG) 2018! 🙂

      Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  8. Kori wrote:

    Wow!! I’ve followed you for a little while now and admired you from afar…that admiration just shot up x1000. Thank you for sharing. Thank you for being real. And thanks for sharing smokin deals 🙂

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  9. Sammi wrote:

    I am so happy I found you on Instagram and have been enjoying your posts/blog ever since. I really love how genuine you are and it makes me excited to see your Instagram stories everyday. You brought back some excitement for fashion in me that I lost when I was pregnant and completely unhappy with my body/self. I am hoping 2018 is my best year yet and for you too!

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
    • Thank you so much!! Here’s to a BIG 2018 for all of us! xo!

      Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  10. Denissa wrote:

    I can honestly say that you are without a doubt my favorite person I started following last year!! Your real ness and genuine heart is SO refreshing!! I totally get the age comparing bc sadly once I turned 40+ I started doing it, especially realizing that basically EVERYONE I follow is younger than me! But then I also realized this year that age is just a number!
    Excited to see what 2018 holds! XO

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
    • Thank you so much!!! And throw that age right out the window! I plan on doing the same. Age shmage, right? Ha! Happy 2018!

      Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  11. Jill wrote:

    Speaking right to my heart sister. Don’t let anyONE or anyTHING dull your shine. God does Big things when we open our hearts to Him. Keep bringing us the real you ( messy, bun joggers please lol). ????

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  12. Anna-Marie Struble wrote:

    So much LOVE for this post!!! Thank you!!!!

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  13. Melissa wrote:

    This is awesome! And I love that you are so real! I’m a pastors wife in a tiny little town outside Stephenville, Texas… Lingleville lol! It’s the size of the Oklahoma town you were in. I’m a city girl married to a country boy :). The Lord flipped my life upside down and called my bearded, tattooed husband to full time ministry about 3 years ago. Man, were His plans bigger and better than mine! I won’t tell you my life story but just wanted to encourage you for being your true self! My favorite scripture is Philippians 3:12… “I’m not perfect, and I never will be but being what Christ wants me to be is exactly where I need to be” ?? My version lol. Thanks for all you do, thanks for making us messy, cRaZy mamas feel normal ?.

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
    • Hahaha!! I love this SO much!! I bet you have a GREAT story to tell; your journey sounds so interesting and, wow, God definitely had his hand in that! I’m so glad you’re here…wishing us both a very amazing 2018!! xo!

      Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  14. Shay wrote:

    Love this so very much! I love following you and that you always keep it real. xoxo
    Shay

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  15. Hayley wrote:

    Well, I love this post so much. And so much of what you said is something we all struggle with. Thank you for sharing a bit of your heart. God is good, always. Keep kicking ass, girlfriend.

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  16. Yes! I needed this! My biggest goal this year is working on me! I will be a 40 year old blogger at the end of year…but who cares! I just want to be the best me I can be regardless of my age 🙂 Let’s live BIG this year girl!!!

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
    • YES! Who cares about our age! We have a LOT to offer! 🙂 Here’s to a very BIG 2018!

      Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  17. Shannon wrote:

    I love your insta-stories! They are my favorite part of Instagram 🙂 Keep on sharing and being YOU. Thank you for your vulnerability (needed to hear the marriage part of above) and for being a hot mess sweetheart. Cheers to 2018!!

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
    • Thank you so much, Shannon! Wishing you an amazing…and very BIG 2018!

      Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  18. Karla S. wrote:

    Love this post. Recent follower and I love your blogs. Have a great new year.

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  19. Monica wrote:

    I love how you are just so open and honest about your life. Like not washing your hair for days,wearing the same clothes few days in row and so on. You are just who you are and I love it. I wake up every morning and pull you up just to see what you have on here. You have been a huge inspiration and I wish you the best in 2018. You will do great things for sure!

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
    • Thank you so much, Monica! I appreciate that SO much!

      Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  20. Elizabeth wrote:

    YOU’RE 35?!?!?!?!?!? I would never have guessed that! Have you shared your skincare routine??????? Because I need it.

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  21. Shelbe Russell wrote:

    I’m very new to your blog, but not your Instagram (silly I know), but I find peace in your stories and transparency in what you share. This post had me in tears as i think back on my 2017 and how I faced some of the same struggles as you. Although we are in different olaces in our live journeys, i relate to closely to you! You boost me up daily with what you have to share!

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
    • Thank you so much! Here’s to a wonderful…and every BIG year for the both of us!

      Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  22. Erin wrote:

    I just started following you on Instagram this past fall and I absolutely LOVE that you post your real everyday life! So many bloggers make their life look picture perfect and that’s just not reality. Thank you for being so genuine and presenting all sides of life – the good, the bad, the ugly, and the dirty hair!! Keep doing what you’re doing sister… it’s working!! xoxo

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  23. Dana wrote:

    Love the honesty! Not that I want anyone to struggle at all but sometimes it’s nice to know that others have the same feelings. This is a hard thing to see through social media and blogs sometimes so I appreciate the openness! I just started following you this year and look forward to your posts and stories! You keep doing you!!!

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  24. Lindsey wrote:

    Ahh! I love this post. I only started following you maybe 4-5 months ago (or maybe longer? I remember your insta stories was when you were in AZ talking about the people at Walmart?) in which I discovered you through another blogger’s “Follow Friday”. Though I follow a ton of bloggers, I kind of have found myself circling back to maybe 5 or 6 that I religiously follow or look for insta stories and you literally are my number 1 that I always look to see if you have new stories, new posts, etc. The reason I love following you so much is because you are so REAL and because I feel you are so relateable! This post for example, you were so brave to lay everything on the table about yours and your husbands realization that you needed to make the 2 of you the first priority because as I know that social media is only our “highlight reel” sometimes as a reader/follower, you forget that these people are real people too.

    Thank You for all your silliness.

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
    • Thank you so much for your kindness and for following along! Wishing you a wonderful 2018, Lindsey!

      Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  25. Tawni K wrote:

    Girl, this speaks to my heart SO much! Thank you for sharing! I feel like I am you last year. I just start following you a few weeks ago, I think through Ashlee @ Little Lovelies, and I just adore what you’re doing. I’m a brand new working Mama, trying to start a blog and figure out God’s plan is to fulfill me. This post has inspired me! ?? May the Lord continue to bless you as you are called to share your heart with us.

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
    • Thank you so much, Tawni! Wishing you a VERY happy 2018, full of BIG things!

      Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  26. Kelly wrote:

    Ahh I needed this today! Love all your posts!<3

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  27. Lori wrote:

    You’re the best!! I always look forward to all your stories & post. You are so inspiring with your fashion sense & all your words of wisdom!

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  28. Holly wrote:

    The reasons you listed are exactly why I started following you! I want to see someone living life – not just taking pretty pictures. Keep doing you and have a glorious 2018!

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  29. Amy wrote:

    I am so thankful that I was introduced to your Instagram account through one of my best girlfriends!! We both love your style and buy a lot of what you share! Although, she pulls it off much better than me ? You even put a picture of her and her sweet family on your insta stories the other day (in the camo leggings) I love your stories and look forward to them every day!! Thank you for sharing and being so real. Keep doing you because you are awesome!!!! God bless!!

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
    • Thank you soooo much, Amy! Wishing you a very happy (and BIG) 2018! xo!

      Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  30. Lauren Pierce wrote:

    Love this post so much! Thank you for everything you do. I truly look forward to your posts and stories everyday. I also think that if we lived closer, we would be the best of friends! Happy New Year!

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  31. Tracy Graham wrote:

    This is so great Jennifer. I love your candid heart. I love the way you just speak real. Happy 3018 friend. May tone yourbest one yet. Praying for you to have a fierce marriage on fire for the Lord.

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  32. Moni wrote:

    Yes to ALL OF THIS! Crazy how much can change when you let go of all the bs and learn to fall back in love with yourself. Da best feeling ever! 2017 was the best I had in growth as a mom, etc…Gosh, if you only knew my story it’s amazing how I pulled through it without going partially insane. Lol. We’ll have to have some wine and talk about it sometime. Love having you in my life even if it’s been through social media! We’ll get our days down soon for that play date! Love ya & thanks for sharing! LIVE BIG!

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
    • Yes, I would love to chat allll about your journey! We need to get that playdate in the books ASAP!

      Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  33. Great blog post, sister! Thank you for always sharing. I can relate to so much of this. I had a really crummy first half of 2017 personally and professionally and ended the year with a rough patch with the hubby. Thankfully we got back on track sometime before Christmas. Life (and marriage) is hard :/ So many goals for 2018, but a big one for me personally is to live and be happy NOW. I get so caught up in what I don’t have or things I’m anticipating for the future that I end up living for tomorrow and not enjoying today. With two small kids at home, I’m beginning to see that my life is speeding by way too quickly! Best of luck to you this year at achieving all of your goals. You’re so passionate and genuine, I know you’ll do great things ???

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
    • I agree, life and marriage are HARD and it all takes work! I tend to get caught up in everything else too, but I’m trying hard to soak up this precious time with these small kids of mine…and pouring a tall glass of wine at night when I need some down time! 😉 Wishing you a wonderful 2018!

      Posted 1.3.18 Reply
      • Rachel Grafton wrote:

        Good Lord yes, ALLL the wine. About ready to get me some now ?

        Posted 1.4.18 Reply
  34. Robyn wrote:

    Im 31 and absolutely LOVE your blog! It’s honestly my favorite. I love it more than the other “picture perfect” bloggers that just aren’t real life! I love your cheery personality and your mom style. I don’t mean frumpy I mean comfort and trendy all in one! And affordable! Keep your happy and realness going!

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  35. Shelly wrote:

    So happy a friend suggested I follow you in 2017! I have felt so many of these things and really question sometimes why in the world I’m still blogging and then one person connects with something I’ve share and it reminds me why. And marriage…oh so hard and it takes work..but you are 100% right in saying each person must be happy with his or her self. So much of my life was wasted expecting someone or something to create my happiness. You are precious and I can’t wait to continue following along with your sweet life and fun fashion finds.

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  36. Mary wrote:

    Love this jen! It shows in your posts how happy and content you are. I couldn’t agree more about not giving a flip and once you stop, you start to appreciate what you DO have! Comparison won’t get us anywhere. (Speaking to myself lol) so glad you have a great 2017 and I’m pumped to see what 2018 has for you! I’m a fellow blogger but also a follower who loves you too ??

    – Mary

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
    • I just adore you, Mary! Come back to Dallas, soon!! And here’s to a BIG year for both of us!

      Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  37. Kerry wrote:

    You’re so inspirational and FUNNY! I was just thinking this morning that fashion blogger are SO young, so I got a chuckle out of your comment about the same thing (I’m 52- EEKS!). Stay your course! You are a true gem and I appreciate your efforts!

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
    • Thank you SO MUCH, Kerry! 50 is the new 30! 🙂

      Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  38. christina wrote:

    You are seriously so inspiring and so real! Very refreshing in this crazy world! I love your posts, your instagram stories. You are great at what you do! You were meant to be exactly where you are! I look forward to your posts and stories every day! Keep it up girl!

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
    • Thank you SO much for this and for following along!!

      Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  39. Shelly Nutt wrote:

    Sister, I followed those perfect 20-something bloggers for like 2 minutes and realized I had NOTHING in common with them!! Even though I’m 20+ years older than you, I love your authenticity, your modest/fun/classy style, your dirty hair posts (I wash my hair once a week whether it needs it or not!! haaha!!) your adorable kids and your messy house/laundry room/life. You’re real and I love hanging out with you!! Cheers to 2018!!

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  40. Girl. I think we just became besties! I can relate to all the points in this post. Love it and totally needed it today.

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
    • Thank you, Holly! CHEERS to a great 2018, girlfriend!

      Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  41. Ashley Woodard wrote:

    Jen…I’ve been following you on Instagram/stories for a while but haven’t ever been to your blog. I saw your story about your blog post today and came over to read it and it just made me love you even more! What drew me to you first was of course your sense of fashion but your authencity and sense of humor sucked me in! In a world of “perfectly staged pics”, you are so refreshing and real…and still stinkin gorgeous!
    Thanks for being you! Cheers to a BIG 2018!!

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
    • Thank you SO much, Ashley!! You just made me smile! I truly appreciate you! xoxo

      Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  42. Jessica wrote:

    Thank you for being so real. You are by far my favorite blogger. Your stories are so easy to relate to. No one has the perfect life, everyone hates to blow dry there hair and everyone knows it is hard to maintain a house with a husband and kids?

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
    • THANK YOU, Jessica!! SO true! I appreciate your kindness!

      Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  43. Paige Weir wrote:

    Love this ! Totally hit home and I stalk your page everyday !
    Keep doing you girl, very inspiring ? xoxo

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  44. Allie wrote:

    So I just recently found your IG (and have purchased so much thru your suggestions already!) and have to say I adore you! You’re my favorite IG to now watch daily BE A– USE you’re real and funny and a “hot mess” haha.. keep it up and thank you for sharing and keeping it real!

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  45. Celina wrote:

    Love love love this post, and you Jen, thank you for being so real and raw and genuine! Hope 2018 brings an abundance of health,happiness and blessings to you and yours. Love ya Sister ?

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  46. Celeste wrote:

    Thanks for always sharing and be so real!!! Your sweet and beautiful and I love that you treat us all as your friends! Yes wouldn’t it be great to have coffee with all our IG friends! ?

    God Bless you and your family! Let’s pray for a great 2018!

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  47. Kristen wrote:

    I love you because you’re real. Not because you have the perfect house, or perfect wardrobe, or perfect family. It’s because you are a hot mess just like the rest of us and you don’t make us feel bad for being so! Keep being you sista, we all need that in our life! XO

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
  48. Kristen wrote:

    This!!! This is exactly why I follow you! You are REAL and RELATABLE! There have been other bloggers I have followed in the past and have stopped following because their lives are so perfect! No thank you! So glad I found you! Thank you for being you! Thank you for sharing such awesome favorites! And thank you for introducing this 51 year old mother of teenage boys to Aerie (I think they mortified that I shop in the “same store” as they do)

    Keep on keeping on! You are the BEST!!!!

    Posted 1.3.18 Reply
    • Hahaha! I just love you, Kristen! Thank you SO MUCH!

      Posted 1.4.18 Reply
  49. Nicole wrote:

    You’re so inspirational and funny! I love your hot mess of a real life that you share!! Lifes too short to be all pretty pictures & no audience engagement! You are my first IG story every morning! Keep being you, clearly we all love you ?

    Posted 1.4.18 Reply
  50. Katie wrote:

    You are seriously my favorite blogger and I’m 28 so age ain’t nothin but a number! I love how real you are and how your page is filled with normal pictures and it’s not just staged with a “theme.” You rock.

    Posted 1.4.18 Reply
  51. Abby wrote:

    Love your post! Totally hit home with me. I love your stories on Instagram. Thanks for all you do.

    Posted 1.4.18 Reply
  52. Chelsie McSwain wrote:

    I do not even know how I stumbled upon your Instagram account last month, but it has been my most favorite account to follow of all time! I literally look forward to seeing what you post every day 🙂 You have a gorgeous family and I wish you all an amazing new year!

    Posted 1.4.18 Reply
  53. Laura Hickey wrote:

    I love this post! I look forward to your posts everyday! I’m a nursing momma (to my third) and your snap stories and posts keep me company (and awake!) in the middle of the night! Keep on being you! Happy 2018!

    Posted 1.4.18 Reply
  54. Jamie wrote:

    I applauded you for not following the trend of other bloggers, because for me they aren’t relatable. Whether it be a Messy home, day old makeup, and the everyday trials of a hectic life, you make even that look easy and enjoyable. With great fashion taste might I add. It’s nice to forget about what I have going on in my life for a few moments and here your side of similar experiences. Thank you for being you and being REAL and putting your personal and family life out there in the world for readers like myself to find comfort, enjoyment and relatabiliy in. Happy new year!!

    Posted 1.4.18 Reply
    • Thank you so much, Jamie!! I truly appreciate you!

      Posted 1.4.18 Reply
  55. Jennifer Wildman wrote:

    I love that you keep it real & don’t try to act like your life is perfect. No one is perfect or has a perfect life. We all have problems & issues. I don’t care how perfect they try it make themselves & their lives seem. It’s usually the ones who try to seem perfect or you think are perfect that have more problems. There’s another blogger/YouTuber that I follow who I thought had it made. Young & pretty. Got married. Had a gorgeous wedding. Had a baby. Just seemed to have everything together. She found out that her husband was cheating on her & went through a divorce. Was a single mom. She recently remarried & had a baby with him, but last year they found out that her 4 year old daughter has cancer & her beloved dog died unexpectedly. She never said her life was perfect. It just seemed like it to me. I always think about her when I see someone who seems to have it made. Anyway, I love following you & watching your Instastories. Keep doing you! Hope you have a great 2018!!! ?

    Posted 1.4.18 Reply
    • Thank you so much for sharing this, Jennifer! Just proves that we all have issues and no one has a perfect life. Though it’s a very sad situation, I’m glad that blogger shared that with y’all.

      Posted 1.4.18 Reply
  56. Alicia Serrano wrote:

    I am a recent follower and have just fell in love with your posts and your keeping it real attitude. I love the way you respond to your readers and make us feel that we are really connecting and could be actual friends lol! Thank you for sharing!!

    Posted 1.4.18 Reply
  57. Lisa Wilson wrote:

    Love this!!! I look for your posts everyday, it doesn’t matter if you are showing us cute outfits or telling us about your day I enjoy them all! I did most of my Christmas shopping through you and it made the holidays so much easier and fun!!
    Can’t wait to see what you have to show us next!
    Happy New Year!!!!

    Posted 1.4.18 Reply
  58. Tabitha Frager wrote:

    Love your heart Jennifer!! This post is so real and so true. I am glad I found you in 2017 and I want nothing but big things for you. You deserve it all and more.

    Posted 1.4.18 Reply
  59. Lara Falkner wrote:

    You are such an inspiration!! Thank you for showing us the real you! I love you and can’t wait to watch your stories everyday! God Bless you in 2018!! ????

    Posted 1.4.18 Reply
  60. Tina Gautreau wrote:

    Jen,
    I just LOVE you!!! You are so real and fun, and it’s so contagious!! Your stories always make me smile and laugh my butt off!!? You and your family are precious! Thanks for sharing everything with us!!! ??

    Posted 1.4.18 Reply
  61. Melissa Gober wrote:

    Thank you for sharing this! I’m new to following you but I’m so happy I found you! You’re hilarious and so authentic. My favorite blogger! And I haven’t missed an Instagram story since I started following you ??. Happy new year to you and your beautiful family!

    Posted 1.4.18 Reply
  62. Lauren wrote:

    “We’re all losing our shit”, ain’t that the truth!! ? I love this post, and you! Thank you for being someone we can actually relate to. This post is inspiring and I needed to hear it, 2018 WILL be my year! ??

    Posted 1.4.18 Reply
    • YES, girlfriend! This will definitely be YOUR year!!

      Posted 1.4.18 Reply
  63. Stephanie wrote:

    I just found your Instagram feed a couple months ago and I look forward to it veryday. I am so glad that you are not a 29 year old that puts on a perfect front because that is what makes you so much more relatable. I am a 33 year old stay at home mom of 3 which means I pretty much never have clean house and I rock the same outfit multiple days in a row. I have bought many things you have suggested and have loved all of them. You keep doing you.

    Posted 1.4.18 Reply
    • Thank you SO much, Stephanie!! Happy 2018 to you, wishing you a BIG year!

      Posted 1.4.18 Reply
  64. Lisa Mariani wrote:

    Loved this blog post! I’m 49….eek! with 3 teenage girls and I love your blog!!! Love how real you are and have bought many items on your feed as well! You reach way beyond age limits with your down to earth style and great big heart and personality. I look forward to your stories every single day…you never fail to bring a smile to my face?. You’re the best! Here’s to a BIG 2018 for you and your family! XOXO

    Posted 1.4.18 Reply
  65. Jill Moyneur wrote:

    Love this post, it made me reflect on things in my life right now!!!! My daughter and I are recent followers and enjoy your try on sessions and tips on current sales!!! Keep up the good work…Happy 2018!!!

    Posted 1.4.18 Reply
  66. Michelle Heater wrote:

    Heeey Boo!! Don’t think I’ve ever left a comment on your blog before! What the hail’s up with that?!? ? Anywho, just wanted to pop in and share my 2 cents!

    Jen, you’re amazing. You have been such an inspiration to me (and my closet) the last couple of years that I’ve been following you. This blog post shows EXACTLY what draws people in and keeps them there. You show you’re raw, and it’s beautiful and funny and NEEDED. I came across you and your blog at a very rough time in my life. My best friend was in the hospital battling a very aggressive cancer at the age of 28 which ultimately took her life 9 months after her diagnoses. In the next months of not knowing what to do with myself, I would mindlessly wander the “explore” section of IG and one day saw a pretty lady in a fab outfit. And cross my heart, you were a godsend. ?? You were my kind of funny and my kind of authentic and my kind of who gives a sh*t. I hit the IG jackpot!! You unknowingly walked with me through one of the hardest times of my life.

    Thank you for helping me through that time. Thank you for sharing your life and stories and moments and hurts. Those things are pure gold. ?

    Loooooooooove You.

    Michelle

    Posted 1.4.18 Reply
    • Girlfriend, you just put me in tears!! I’m so sorry about your best friend, I can’t even imagine how hard that must have been. I’m so glad you came across my page and that you decided to stick around. I appreciate you SO much!!! Wishing us both an amazing and BIG 2018!

      Posted 1.4.18 Reply
  67. Jenna Pfaff wrote:

    Jennifer, you know what one of my highlights of 2017 was? Finding and following you! For real, I freakin’ love you! You are genuine, fun, down to earth and beautiful on the inside and out! If I could pick any style to dress like, it would be yours and the best part is you find amazing deals! Only problem is I love and want everything you post! Lol! Glad God helped you this past year. When we keep Him first everything else seems to fall into place. May God continue to bless you and your family in 2018 and always!

    Posted 1.4.18 Reply
    • I just love you! I wish we could meet in real life!

      Posted 1.4.18 Reply
  68. Stacey wrote:

    You are precious and a breath of fresh air! I love your truthful and raw approach, it’s fabulous!! I really struggle with the whole “getting older and trying to do it gracefully” so I finally just decided to focus on each day. Just know that when you are feeling like everything is falling apart, in the craziest way you are inspiring someone else to pull it together. Matthew 5:15-16 Even so, let your light shine before men; that they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven. Happy happy 2018!

    Posted 1.4.18 Reply
  69. Jen, I just have to say, when I first started following you on instagram I noticed your kids were quite a bit older than mine (I’m 31). I thought “She must’ve had kids as a teenager” because I legit believed you had to be in your early 20’s!
    It’s not just how you look but everything else about you is so fresh and vibrant. I’m freaking jealous now that I know you are older than me! ; ) I’m still in disbelief!!!
    What drew me in (and this sounds shallow but whatever) is your beauty…it stopped me dead in my tracks!
    Don’t ever think you are insignificant because, to us, you are incredibly captivating and inspiring!
    Keep it up the good work, girl!!!

    Posted 1.4.18 Reply
    • Oh, Jessica, this is so sweet of you!! Really and truly, thank you SO MUCH!!!

      Posted 1.4.18 Reply
  70. Ange wrote:

    I love the fact that you wear the same jeans three days in a row! Who has time to wash their jeans everyday?! OR THEIR HAIR? That’s just crazy talk! I’m a somewhat new follower-just found you around November-(great for my wardrobe once I pop this baby out ? oops! Might have bought a lot of clothes 8 months pregnant!)-but I was just telling my mom how I was excited to find a fashion blogger who’s not sharing $200 jeans and tops all the time. I love that I can actually afford the cute clothes you share! So thank you!-for keeping it real by wearing your jeans several days in a row, not washing your hair every day, and sharing about all of life’s imperfections!

    Posted 1.4.18 Reply
    • Thank you SO MUCH! And congrats on your new baby!! xo

      Posted 1.4.18 Reply
  71. Stacy David wrote:

    Love you post. I can relate. My husband and I have been together 29 years. Every year has different trials but I still love him to death

    Posted 1.4.18 Reply
  72. Alysa wrote:

    It may be the pregnancy hormones, but I may have teared up a bit reading this…! Love following you; and you inspire me! XOXO

    Posted 1.4.18 Reply
  73. Mandy wrote:

    Love this post! Sounds quite similar to my 2017! I stumbled on you on Instagram after someone shared your page and I loved you from the start. I actually love listening to your insta stories and can relate MUCH more to them than the bloggers my own age (being 24 with two young kids doesn’t seem to be as common anymore). I also felt kind of blah about life at the beginning of 2017 and begged God daily to guide me towards where he wanted me to bloom. I prayed the same prayers for my husband because he’d been struggling too. In April he suddenly decided to interview for a job in another state (with my blessing) and two months later we moved to a new state, while I was 8 months pregnant with our second, and bought our first house. I never would have believed that’s how our year was going to go and I wouldn’t have made it through the year without BIG faith.
    Thank you for being so relatable!

    Posted 1.4.18 Reply
    • Wow, what a big year! Congrats on your baby, new job for your husband, and your new home! And keeping your faith in God along the way!! Wishing you a wonderful 2018!

      Posted 1.7.18 Reply
  74. Susan wrote:

    I’m 48 and just introduced my 20-year old to your account. We both love your style and find your authenticity refreshing. We talk about you and your posts, shop together for the sales you share, laugh at your Remi as her personality reminds us so much on my girl when she was that age! I’ve been married 25 years and you’re right, it’s tough and takes work…daily work. But like yours, our relationship has become stronger and better. We look to the future with excitement now – what’s this next year of growth going to bring us?! Thank you for sharing your life with us. May your year be full of endless joy and blessings! Sending love from Northern CA…??

    Posted 1.4.18 Reply
    • Thank you so much, Susan! Here’s to wonderful 2018 for all of us!!

      Posted 1.7.18 Reply
  75. Georgina wrote:

    Woman! This is awesome! I have to tell you, that YOU are my favorite Instagramer and blogger. I don’t want to follow a 22 year old. I wanna follow you, girl!! Good luck to you in the New Year, Jen and may God continue to bless you.

    Posted 1.4.18 Reply
  76. Christi M Colegrove wrote:

    Love this!!! Thank you for your transparency. I love watching you everyday! You inspire me and I am 45 years old. Your real and that’s what we truly want to see in a blogger. I never wash my hair everyday, seriously who has time for that when you work full time and run a household. Thank you for keeping it real. You are so beautiful and fun!! I always tell my friends you are my BFF but you just don’t know it LOL!!! :)God Bless you as you grow in Him and his truth.

    Posted 1.4.18 Reply
  77. Cathleen wrote:

    resent follower! love your blog,insta storys and facebook page. love how you keep it real!

    Posted 1.4.18 Reply
  78. Jenna wrote:

    Uplifting and inspiring as always! Jen I have been following you for over a year and have always looked up to you! I am so happy wehave become “virtual friends” Hope to meet up one day soon! Cheers to a great year!

    Xo Jenna

    Posted 1.4.18 Reply
  79. Lessie wrote:

    I absolutely Love your blog and your insta Stories. I stumbled across your Instagram last year when another blogger i followed also followed you. I love the pictures in your feed. But the truth is your honestly, humor and unwashed hair makes your blog and stories feel like real life. That is what Sister are about. I am thankful to have found your blog but i am sure my husband may not be since i have bought so may sale items when you list them lol 😉 Thanks for what you do!

    Posted 1.4.18 Reply
  80. OMG Jennifer – Absolutely love this post! Made me cry! I love how real & relatable you are and I love following along. Thanks for sharing this. It truly touched me!

    xoxo,
    Megan Kristine

    Posted 1.5.18 Reply
  81. Kristin wrote:

    Thanks for sharing your reflection! I genuinely look forward to your posts and stories everyday on Insta — I haven’t even been following that long (maybe 6 months?) but was instantly taken by your loud, positive and addictive personality — and style (obvi)!! Keep being you and happy 2018!

    Posted 1.5.18 Reply
  82. Carly wrote:

    I started following you in the late summer of last year. It was you attitude and positivity that drew me in and keeps me looking for your stories. Keep it up girl!!! It brightens me day!!!

    Posted 1.5.18 Reply
  83. kathy wrote:

    I HEART you so hard! I just told my husband last night that I like to pretend you are my “real-life” friend- lol! Good luck to you in 2018- I know all your hopes and dreams will come true. Thank you for being authentic, and so damn awesome 🙂

    Posted 1.5.18 Reply
  84. Jamie wrote:

    Love this & am SO GLAD I found you (and your blog)! I appreciate you being REAL! It’s so easy (and annoying) to get caught up with all of the fakeness & Barbie doll lifestyles on Instagram! Your style is SO refreshing and relatable as a fellow busy mom of 2! Keep on, girl! Loving all of your helpful links to AFFORDABLE style(s). Cheers to you and living BIG in 2018!!!!

    Posted 1.5.18 Reply
  85. Ja'Net wrote:

    I am new and so glad I discovered you on Instagram! Loved this post so much! 🙂

    Posted 1.7.18 Reply
  86. Kelley wrote:

    Oh my gosh! You are 35?!?! I was going to ask you to recommend a blogger that was closer to my age to follow! I’m sticking with you! I am new to your blog and just recently found you on Instagram. I loved shopping with you through the holiday season! I can’t wait too see what you find for this spring and summer!

    Posted 1.8.18 Reply
  87. Brooke wrote:

    I have NEVER commented on a blog before but today I feel so compelled to do so! Your honesty is a breath of fresh air and your style is FAB! I’m 35 as well, girl – we are young!!!!!

    Posted 1.8.18 Reply
    • Aw!!! THANK YOU SO MUCH!! And, heck yes, 35 is the new 25, right?

      Posted 1.9.18 Reply
  88. Mara wrote:

    I just found you on Instagram and jumped over here to your blog. OMG! Love you already, because of this post. Thanks for being REAL. I love authenticity. Thank you for having the courage to step out and speak your truth. It helps all of us. Bless you!

    Posted 1.22.18 Reply
  89. Emily wrote:

    I know this is an older post but I am a new follower and am catching up! I just wanted to express how much I enjoyed this and the honesty I have seen through all (stalk much :)) your post. Its refreshing to see someone not so much perfect and not so concerned about keeping up with the hype. I love your love of God and how you pass that through to your family as that is really what life is all about! Other than all that and more you a gorgeous!!! I don’t believe you are 35 however you have given me major goals at 33 to keep up with (just bought some of your recommended collagen) Anyways, it’s starting to sound like I’m girl crushing on you and maybe I am but honestly I look forward to see each of your posts and hope this gives you a spark to keep on going!!

    Posted 1.23.18 Reply
  90. Tori wrote:

    This is my first comment on a blog, but I have to concur with everyone else and praise you on your honesty, genuineness and humor! I am a Christian, and it’s been so nice to learn you are one as well. I used to feel bad that I loved shopping so much, but I’m glad there’s another soul sista out there whose a believer and a fashion addict like me! Haha! You give us really helpful information and help us decide on a purchase. Try-on sessions on Instagram stories are so good too – you give me ideas on how to style it! I really enjoy you! Thanks, girl!

    Posted 1.31.18 Reply
  91. Amy Jackson wrote:

    I. Love. This. I was VERY new to following you last Year (it’s a “sister studio-versary” this month)! Hahah
    So I never saw this. But this is beautiful. You have helped so many feel so special and dare I say, normal! Hahhah! Happy New Year to you and your beautiful (inside and out) family!

    Posted 12.31.18 Reply
  92. Kim wrote:

    Absolutely love loved reading this and look forward to reading your thoughts for 2019. As a 50 year old I had never followed fashion bloggers because I felt most were too “perfect”’. You were the first I started following religiously and love that you’re so down to earth and honest… not too mention have a cute sense of humor. You’ve certainly help with my wardrobe without making me feeling like i’m “hanging on” as I hit a milestone this year. So THANK YOU for all you do for ALL of us!! Happy New Year!!!

    Posted 12.31.18 Reply
    • Thank you SO much, Kim! I’m so happy you’re here! Happy New Year!!

      Posted 1.6.19 Reply
  93. Keila wrote:

    OMG! I know this is out of time…I mean we’re 2019 and I’m so lucky to read this post delayed. I can’t even remember how did I get into your blog (seriously :$) but I LOVE it. I’m following you on Instagram and I can’t wait to see you on your stories. I really like the way you share your secret beauty’s and deals on the stores. Thanks you much for that! I will considered when I’ll go to USA again. Just your information I’m your biggest Peruvian fan!!! My very good wishes for you and God blessings to you and your family!

    Posted 2.7.19 Reply
  94. Jenny wrote:

    From one Jen (I’m a little older tho, turned 40 this year) to another —YOU are inspiring, FUN, gorgeous l, and so darn relatable. Keep doing what you’re doing! I haven’t found my niche quite yet and this world of blogging can feel SO overwhelming at times but reading your posts keeps me going and sparks creativity and inspo.

    Posted 4.15.19 Reply

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