This is not my typical blog post. I had my usual Wednesday outfit post ready to go but I decided to write this instead. I’m sharing why today is such an important day (besides the obvious), some random thoughts, things I’m struggling with and why I feel like I’m in a rut.
Today marks exactly one year since my Father-in-law came home from having suffered a massive heart attack while vacationing in Maui last year. He spent three months in the hospital and there was little to zero chance he would make it. Well, God is good and he came home on the 4th of July. After a lot of physical therapy, he’s made a full recovery and back to his sparky self. A little bit about my FIL, he is one of the most honest and kindest souls I’ve ever known. We are all so blessed to have him in our lives and more importantly, Milan has a chance to get to know her grandfather. I didn’t get to know either sets of my grandparents which is why it’s SO important to me that she has the opportunity to have them in her life. We spent the day with them today and Milan had a blast.
I’ve been struggling with a few things lately…some very personal things that I’m really not ready to share or may never share. Just want to throw this out there and let you know that it’s ok if you are going through a tough time. You are not alone. Even when it may seem like someone has the perfect life (especially on social media), more than likely, they are struggling. We all have our stories.
The past couple of months, I’ve been frustrated with Instagram, un-inspired and kind of in a rut. I’ve been so busy with Milan, building a new house and some other projects (super excited to share later) I’m working on that by the time she goes to bed, I’m ready to turn in too! She still won’t take a nap in her crib and it’s been months. She used to nap like a champ and I was able to get so much work done during that time. Where did those days go? It all started one day when I put her down for a nap and cried herself to the point where she threw up in her crib. Since then, I felt so guilty and just let her nap while nursing on me. I can’t even remember when this happened! It’s been three weeks since I weaned her so she can’t nurse while she naps anymore. Clearly this has affected her. The past two days she hasn’t wanted to nap at all. I’ve let it go since it’s a holiday. I know I need to sleep train her for nap time but I just don’t have it in me. She is so strong willed and the older they get, the harder it is to get them back on track. Thank GOODNESS she is still sleep trained to sleep at night! I think because she’s such a good sleeper at night, I’ve let the nap situation go. Boy oh boy did this backfire on me! LOL
I really don’t want to complain about Instagram but clearly I’m going to anyway. It’s so frustrating. It’s been like this for years and obviously nothing is going to change. It’s such a large part of my business that it’s hard to not let it affect me. Between the Instagram algorithms constantly screwing us over, LIKEtoKNOW.it changing and how social media has been just saturated with so many bloggers – it’s just become one big ball of frustration for me. It’s obvious that the IG algorithms is affecting everyone across the board but that doesn’t make me feel any better. Ok maybe a little? Because that would suck if it was just my account (lol). It’s just maddening that you work hard to create content yet it doesn’t show up in peoples feeds that follow you therefor likes and engagement is down. How sad that we now live in a world that the number of likes you get on a photo directly affects your mood and in a lot of cases, your income.
I started to doubt my blog, my purpose, my creativity and myself in general. This social media thing is NO JOKE. It can be so unhealthy yet it’s such a huge part of my business that I simply cannot ignore the numbers. I’ve been blogging since 2010…full time since 2015 and it’s amazing how much this whole “blogging” industry has warped into kind of a monster. Don’t get me wrong, I still love what I do but it’s just daunting when I scroll through my IG feed and see the same travel photos, same poses, same outfits and even same verbiage over and over and over again. It seems like everyone is a wannabe travel blogger or influencer. How can I not feel inadequate? I know most of what I see isn’t real but it’s so hard to feel good about yourself after seeing everyone living this picture perfect life. Yes it affects me too! It’s hard to compete and keep up especially now that my world revolves around Milan.
I used to be SO guarded and private. I never shared anything personal about myself, what I did for a living or even what city I lived in. I was afraid of judgement, criticism, trolls…the list goes on and on. When I was finally brave enough to share my miscarriage post, my guard slowly came down. The outpouring of support and women who came forward and shared their stories was overwhelming. That inspired and motivated me to share more about my struggles. I want people to see that there was much more to me than just cute outfits. I’m just a normal girl trying to figure out this motherhood thing while posting cute outfits when I have time and running my business.
After Milan’s surgery at only six weeks old and having to pack her wound for weeks due to a surgical infection completely changed me. This was the darkest time in our lives. Going through an ordeal like this as new parents (and sleep deprived) took a major toll on our marriage. Thinking back, I struggle to write about this as it brings up so many emotions and painful memories. After her recovery, I stopped caring about stupid stuff. The things that mattered before no longer existed. The only thing that I cared and still care about is the well being of Milan.
Now on to the lovely trolls of the internet and social media. Yes…they do exist and unfortunately there are A LOT OF THEM. Some are probably reading this right now and scoffing. I used to let it get to me but it’s just part of the gig. Anytime you post photos of yourself or put yourself out there, it’s inevitable that people will judge and criticize you. Say whatever you want about me however kids are OFF LIMITS. THE END. Yet there are still people out there that think it’s ok to troll on children. I just got one about Milan today. I was like seriously? I know I’ve talked about it before on Instagram but I’ve never talked about it on my blog. The constant questions about why she wears a turban was getting out of control. I don’t mind the respectful questions or inquiries but when you are rude or negative about it, I will not tolerate it. I had to post a whole explanation HERE just to alleviate me having to explain it 900 times a day. Who cares why she wears a turban or a hat? It’s fine to be curious but there is no excuse or reason to be rude or mean. She is two years old for Pete’s sake! I’m generally a very nice person but the second you start troll on my baby or family, you will see a very dark side to me. And believe me, it’s not a pretty sight.
No clue why I’m writing all this….maybe I’m delirious? I’m beyond exhausted so my apologies if most of my blabbing doesn’t make any sense. I’m literally just typing out what’s on my mind at this exact moment. Hope US readers had a wonderful 4th of July! XO
Hello Annie,
I have followed you for quite a while. Not sure I am exactly a target audience – am perhaps much under at 50 years old (yet petite!). Your site is always so uplifting. This moment in your life will be a catalyst to move you forward. You will notice that in hindsight. Continue being thoughtful and, when ready, make one small yet notable change to your routine (work, family, personal, wherever makes sense). That will be the start…and what you feel in this moment is so normal and ultimately will be just what you needed. All the very best to you and your family. Mary Beth (from RI)
dont be frustrated by little things like IG. what is important is your child and your well being. your blog is so much fun to watch and i am a 67 year old grandma. so be good to yourself and keep doing what you do and the rest will take care of itself.
Thank you Andrea! I feel much better now that I was able to write out my thoughts. All the feedback and support from such wonderful ladies is just what I needed. XO
Hi Mary Beth! Thank you so much for the advice. I love the small yet notable change in my routine…I will definitely try that. 🙂 XO
Sorry for typo above in 3rd line – meant to say “older” not “under” – LoL!
LOL no worries 🙂
Annie, thank you for opening up and sharing from your heart. I remember when your FIL was in the hospital and I’m so happy to hear he’s made a full recovery.
Regarding the whole social media/IG world, I am not a blogger and I still become uninspired by it all at times. I agree, a lot of the content is repetitive by a big portion of bloggers. At times, I even have to take a social media break and delete the apps from my phone or close accounts. So, I can only imagine how difficult it must be for bloggers like yourself who can never really take a break from social media. I’m a long time follower of you and I appreciate seeing you and Milan. I may not comment as much as others but I do enjoy your content.
Big hugs, Annie. 🙂
Hi Debbie! Can you believe it’s been a year? It’s crazy how fast time has gone by and we are all thrilled that he’s made a full recovery. He is a wonderful FIL and GPA! I’ve decided that instead of complaining about how frustrated I am about social media, I’m just going to do what I do and hope that people will like it. You can only do what you can only do right? I appreciate your loyalty and for sticking with me and Milan. Means the world to me! XO
Hugs to a beautiful person, mom and working woman. Its disheartening how mean people are and as a fellow mom, I can understand completely how when someone targets our children or family we react and respond on a whole new level. I admire you for your honesty, we are all human on this crazy planet together. Focus on the good and what’s really important, Milan, your husband and your family.
Hi Denielle! Thank you and big hugs back. 🙂 I never really understood what the whole Mama Bear meant until I became a mommy. You are absolutely right, it is a whole new level when someone targets our children. It’s like a fire inside me lights up and I will go the great lengths and the end of the earth to protect my baby. Yes I agree, I need to focus on the good – thank you for the reminder. I really appreciate it! XO
Annie, I’m almost crying because your sadness, your emotions are so like mine when I was a young mother struggling with a baby who repeatedy suffered from otitis and I couldn’t get a moment of peace and solitude. I remember one day I was finally able to put my son to nap and decided to take a nice hot bath…. As soon as I soaked my right foot, he started howling like somebody was hurting him and then… I cried of desperation. All this to say, that I’m with you. All along. Please continue to be the very nice and endearing young woman you are. If you feel to share your angst, feelings and emotional pain and joy with us, feel free. I will be the first to defend you. (Sorry for my english, I’m canadian from Quebec, the only french province in my country. take care my dear. (One last word: All bad moments shall pass. One day at a time. Love you.
By the way, I’m 67 y.o. also petite and I LOVE your blog and your fashion sense. You are an inspiration to me.
Hi Denise! Awwwwww you are just such a wonderful human being! Thank you for your support and understanding. I almost cried when I read that you would be the first to defend me. OMG you are just amazing. Your English is perfect so don’t apologize! Not sure if you know this but I’m from MN but have lived in CA for 16 years and just the other day someone asked if I’m Canadian because of how I said “bag”. LOL Thank you for all your sweet and thoughtful words. BIG HUGS!
We all have our ups and downs in life and you are right that social media can make life appear to be something it may not be. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and emotions – for being real! I believe someone else commented that this time and struggle will be a catalyst for you. Maybe not right away but you will be able to look back and realize how much of a stronger person certain situations make you if you let them. It isn’t always easy. I am always inspired by you and your posts. Note that the people who follow you – you provide something to them and mean something to them. Keep doing what you feel is right for you and not what is right for social media. God Bless yo and your family!
Hi Kathy! Thank you for commenting! Social media has warped into this crazy little monster and I just need to ignore the noise and do what I do. I really appreciate your kind words and advice…so nice of you! XO
My daughter stopped napping at 10 months. She slept through the night and it made up for it. We used to call her the “Little General” since she required minmimal sleep compared to others. It was just who she was. I learned to deal with it and I’m still envious to this day of kids who nap 2-3 hours! We used to drive her around or walk for hours with the stroller to get her to sleep. Don’t stress yourself out. Once she is in school, she may nap with other kids around her. My daughters is 11 now and healthy and happy. Don’t force the naps. You are doing more harm than good. Hang in there and remember there is no one way to be a good mother!!!
Hi Kara! Thank you for sharing and LOL about the “Little General”. That is hilarious! I tried not forcing Milan to nap today and she was so much happier and less fussy. We even had a playdate and she did great! I appreciate the advice – super helpful! Thank you! XO
Annie, thank you for being honest and transparent. Like many of the women who commented previously, I am a petite 50 yr old who loves your style. Keep your eyes on God, your hubby and your precious baby. You got this, Annie!
Thank you so much Elizabeth! These type of posts are never easy but I love this community and the support of so many amazing women like yourself! XO
Annie, you are so brave to have an online job where you are subject to the world’s criticism. I would never even attempt it!
I’m sorry you are so tired and stressed. Can you work a little less and survive on your husband’s salary? I don’t want you to burn out. These days of having a little one are exhausting, but this too shall pass.
Like another woman commented, Put God first, then your husband, then Milan. Then everything else.
Hugs!
Hi Debbie! Thank you for leaving this comment. I knew going into this online job would be difficult but the more saturated the market gets, the harder it gets. I am pretty exhausted and stressed but that’s okay, I will get through it. I think I needed to vent and get it out of my system. I always wanted my blog to be a place where I could share my thoughts as well as my love for fashion. We are are working on some other business ventures but I don’t think I will work less…LOL OMG I will probably work more. 🙁 Thank you so much for the advice and kind words. You are amazing!
I never write comments but I had to respond to you. I’m a petite first time mom (though older at 40) of an almost 2 year old girl and I too am obsessed with fashion. More importantly I find so much joy in ALL your posts. Ignore the noise and know you are making a positive uplifting difference in what you post. Thank you 🙏🏼
Hi Jessica! Thank yo SO MUCH for taking the time to comment and congrats on your LO! You are so sweet and I so appreciate the kind words. Means more than you know! XO
You are in a tough stage of parenting but you won’t regret it. Your daughter may not need a nap but does need quiet time, alone, so you can breathe. Find some way to do this for both of you. She will learn to entertain herself even if it’s for 30 minutes. I sense you’re exhausted. It will get better.
Hi M! Hahaha not going to lie, I am exhausted. Overwhelmed and overworked. I barely sleep, work way too much and take care of Milan from morning until night. I love the quiet time idea and can’t wait to try it. We don’t have this right now and I think it would be great for her and definitely helpful for me. Thank you so much! XO
Annie- I am 65 and love your blog and pictures- I have a young mother in the neighborhood who also follows you and Milan and guess what -her stylish bambina wears a turban and who do you think inspired her? Forget the trolls you rock- don’t force the nap but like M says- schedule her a quiet time- give her a pile of toys and books in her room and train that it is her special time.It is a tough challenge but give it a whirl!
Hi Sue! Aw thank you so much and omg really? I love hearing that about other moms and their kiddos wearing turbans! I tried not forcing Milan’s nap today and she was super happy and less fussy. I love the quiet time idea and will implement that! I really appreciate you commenting. XO
I love all your posts! I admire you for being a blogger and opening yourself up to social media! I would never be brave enough to do what you do. I am a petite 64 year old -still working part time, married for 44 years this August, and we raised two sons now 38 and 34 and I still struggle with lots of things but our sons turned out fine and life goes on. Just put God first and everything else will come together! Don’t second guess yourself as a mother just go with your instincts. You are beautiful and so is Milan!!!!
Hi Mary Jane! OMG 44 years of marriage? What is your secret? My parents just hit their 50th wedding anniversary last year! Thank you for the advice and for taking the time to comment. I really appreciate it! 🙂 XO
Annie, you are inspiring and have good sense of fashion. I’m sorry that you are going through rough times right now. And I agreed with Denise ‘s comments above “all bad moments shall pass” and so do good moments in life. Life is not easy but remember that you’re not alone. Everyone have struggles and it may not be the same. I’d like to extend some advice: ignore negative comments and concentrate on your brand. Make yourself stand out even if takes you Out of your comfort zone. Your daughter is beautiful and healthy. I love seeing her grow but a lot of your posts include her and feel you’re losing your identity which happens to many Mom’s. The posts you made before Milan showed your beauty and creativity. I have three grown kids, I know what it’s like to be a busy mom and not care about yourself. One more advice: you have to let Milan cry it out, clean up her mess and let her sleep in her bed. I did that to my oldest daughter when she was 18 months and it worked. I hope I didn’t offend you. Feel free to contact me if you want to talk.
Hi Loan, no offense taken and your honest is much appreciated! Thank you for the advice and feedback! 🙂
All I have to say about this post is this is the exact problem with social media across the board. The fact that you put yourself out there to people that you don’t know and will never know but are concerned about what their opinion of you might be. It’s not a healthy environment for anyone. The negativity is out of control. The tolerance of a different opinion is out of control. I only follow on Instagram for fun. I liked your fashion because I’m petite and your pictures are beautiful out in California. I don’t post. I thought Instagram is like all the magazines I love coming to life. People really should just move on if they don’t like what someone is posting. It’s that easy. Lots to look at choose something else to follow , but it would be great if the negativity would go away. My advice to you is ignore the noise. It’s only a small %. Do your thing girl…who cares about Joe Blow you don’t know??!!! You will never please all the people all the time…only some of the people some of the time.
I couldn’t agree more Marla! It is out of control and you’re right – I just need to my thing and if people don’t like it, oh well! 🙂
Hi Annie! I’m a 50+ mother of two beautiful girls and have only been following your blog for about a year but let me tell you that discovering your blog (and that of another petite blogger) has been a game changer for me! I’m about the same size as you are (96lbs 00P) and finding clothes that fit has been a lifetime struggle. I’m from Europe so dressing well has always been important to me. I can understand the struggles you face. Unfortunately any profession that puts you in the public eye also exposes you to possible “mean spirited” comments. Social media has magnified this problem. A lot of times these comments are based on nothing more than envy. People who are so unhappy in their own lives that they seem to find some strange satisfaction in trying to bring down other people. The important thing to focus on is the impact you have on the lives of your followers with your wonderful tips and creativity! Your lovely smile and positive attitude mean a lot to your true followers! I also agree that there is a lot of repetition on blogger’s sites but unfortunately for petites there is such a limited choice that it’s really inevitable. I have written numerous emails to my favourite stores (JCrew, Ann Taylor, BananaRepublic) about their vanity sizing but have seen little improvement. 00P still comes up a little large on me and the selection seems more limited as each season passes by. When I came to this country I shopped almost exclusively at JCrew and my weight/size has remained constant (except for 2 pregnancies of course). So it’s not my body that has changed, it’s their sizing without a doubt!! The selection of tees, knits and sweaters for very petite women is almost non existent. Maybe you could make this one of your missions along with persuading other brands (like Boden who I love 🙂 to start carrying smaller sizes. Even brands that offer petites seem to cut their styles so large(Talbot’s, Gap…) that for a very small petite there are no options. Annie ignore those naysayers that only want to bring you down. I know its difficult to not be affected by what they say but try not to gratify them with a response! I also understand how hard it is with a toddler. My second daughter never napped (even from a newborn) and I have so many memories of putting her in her crib and trying to “crawl” out of the room without her seeing me. I never made it to the door haha! Now she is 20 years old and 1000 miles away at university in New York and not a day goes by that I would love to be crawling out that room again. It’s hard when you are in the middle of it but I look at my beautiful girls and don’t regret one moment despite at times feeling so physically exhausted that all I could do was cry. Hang in there Annie it will pass! In the meantime keep doing what you do best….inspiring petites both young and not so young 🙂
Hi Kathy! First, yay for being the same size! 🙂 Thank you SO much for commenting and sharing everything! I couldn’t agree more about the vanity sizing. Being petite is a struggle and the options are very limited. I’ve noticed that size 00p is more like 0P which is so frustrating! They need to make 000P then! I know J.Crew started doing 000 but it’s very limited and not always cut for petite gals. How funny about your daughter never napping and you having to crawl out of her room! LOL I’ve decided that I’m not going to push Milan to nap because it just creates so much tension and anxiety for both of us. I tried it today and she was super happy and not fussy. So we’ll see…lol I may not get much done but that’s okay because she’s only this little once right? 🙂
I think you and I could spend a long time over cofee (or wine) talking about our new motherhood woes. I have a 4 and 2 year old with another one due in August! All boys. It’s hard. I have no idea what I am doing, but can only take it one day at a time. I’ve been following you on IG since before you were even PG. I love your style. You were actually my first blogger to ever follow. Please know that you bring brightness to people’s feeds and try to ignore all the hate. There is so much out there, but it can’t bring you down. I’ve also enjoyed watching you evolve on IG by becoming more personal. It gives us insight to who you are. So many things are fake (like you said) but I know that you are not. You are awesome!
OMG Susan! HUGE congrats! Goodness 3 boys? You are a saint mama! Seriously how do you even survive? I can barely get by with one..LOL
I was seriously the first blogger you followed? OMG that makes my heart melt! Your comment made me smile so big and I can’t tell you how much I needed this! Thank you for everything you said – means the world to me! XO
Don’t ever change who you are or what you do. If people judge, it has nothing to do with you, but everything to do with them!You inspire so many ….more often than you know.
I personally love your posts and dress ideas. It’s very much a challenge after they are posted to purchase them before they are sold out!
I also love your personal posts, because it reminds your viewers that you are ‘real’ and not just someone out there going through the motions of a job.
Hand this struggle over to God and let him take care of it!
❤️❤️
Hi Cherri! Ahhh thank you so much! It’s a great reminder and I appreciate it! It’s just so crazy how many bloggers there are these days and it’s just way too much to keep up so. I just need to do what I do and keep on chugging along. You are so sweet! Thank you! 🙂
Annie, I don’t comment nearly as frequently as I want to on your blog or IG and I’m so sorry because many times i wanted to say how much I appreciate your consistent quality content. I know that is a super challenging high-bar to maintain. That should prove to you how strong and smart you’ve been to keep this blog and IG thriving, even with the lesser competition trying to imitate you every day. The wannabes want to be you. They want your following, your beauty, your business sense, your photograpy skills, your discipline, your dogged determination to make your business a success. There are no shortcuts to quality and authenticity. The successful bloggers have put in at least 10 or more years to get to your level. I’m sure there are superficial blogs doing well too, but your audience has high quality content in mind and are loyal to high quality blogs. Know your followers and cater to them. We like you and support you! If this is your business that you want to stick with – you need to think about that and make a decision on that) then except for the unpleasantries that is part of the social media package I would suggest that you re-commit yourself to your original business mission and focus on your strengths? Let some of the stupid likes and dollars that go with them go. That is not what is important to your overall mission. I would remember to compare yourself to your true equivalents. Like there are plenty of high end fashion blogs with no sensible commentary. Gucci and Stuart Weitzman all the time is so tiresome! Some fashion bloggers look sloppy and too frugal. Not very inspiring. Some blogs are purely about sponsorship. That’s not gonna last long. I think you would be encouraged if you compared yourself to that much smaller pool of elite bloggers who embody all these things- high end fashion sense blended with practical finds with sensible commentary who look great and photograph well and know how to be tasteful, mannerly and honest in their blogs. See? There aren’t very many that come to mind because true quality is hard to find!!! Maybe your key demographic could be 50y.o petite women because I’m another one! Haha! And i actually own polka dots now and appreciate pockets in dresses because of you. I’m not ready for scallops though. Just sayin;).
Hi L! Thank you for the very thoughtful comment. I love everything you said and it really means a lot that you took the time to write this. I know everyone is busy so when people comment especially on the blog, it means a lot. I’m laughing so hard about the polka dotes and scallops….I haven’t convinced you on the scallops yet? Haha that shall be my new mission! 🙂 XO
Hello Annie,
When I read your post it reminded me of my struggle two years ago when my son stopped napping at age 3. I work from home as well and like you I relied on the few hours he slept during the day to get some work done. What I had to do was implement quiet time where he knew that I had to work and he had to either watch tv, play, or I allowed him to play educational fun games on his tablet. It worked out (some days better than others) and I also started waking up earlier to try to get my work done before he woke up. The other thing I did was enroll him in a pre-k class two days a week for about 2 ½ hours. I tried to use that time to catch up on work. It is not easy but it does get better once you establish a routine. I try to do a lot of different activities with my children throughout the day (crafting, outdoor fun, mommy play time, etc. so that once I say it’s quiet time, I don’t feel guilty about taking this time to work. My daughter is 2 ½ now, but luckily she still naps and my son is getter ready to go to kindergarten full time. I know that she will soon not want to sleep so again I will have to incorporate the quite play time. Stay positive and know that you are influencing many people. I know that I for one am inspired by your style and genuine personality. If you want to know more about the routines I have established with the kids or just need to chat, please feel free to email me.
Hi Sussie! You are amazing! Thank you for taking the time to write all of this. So helpful and you touched on so many things that I can relate to. I don’t even check my email anymore during the day because I feel guilty if I don’t have 100% of my attention on her. I love the idea of quiet time because her and I are always out and about and doing fun things every single day. I’m totally going to implement this idea! So happy that your daughter is still napping! That is awesome! Milan just turned 2.5 so they are the same age! hehe I really appreciate all your help and I may take you up your offer 🙂
Dear Annie, I have been following your blog the past few months and it’s absolutely wonderful. The fashion posts are gorgeous and you reviews on clothing (some many years old) have been super helpful, as I try to build a new wardrobe after 2 children. Thank you for the inspirational post today. You are a brave woman and you little Milan a brave soul just like you for what you went through. Please ignore all the trolls and know that you are an amazing family with a beautiful little girl!
Hi Mary! Thank you so much for all your kind words. It really means a lot. Congrats on your 2 kiddos! 🙂
Great of you to open up like this, Annie. All I can say is that I have always loved and admired your work and your personality. I am surely one of your male fans of your work. Even if I didn’t agree or approve of anything, I at least show some class in respectful disagreement. Don’t let anyone or anything bring you down. Also, I can’t believe people would stoop to the lows of disliking a child. No matter what, just do you. Let haters do as they may. It’s just too bad they lack the proper class and respect.
I wish you well with all of your endeavors in life. Life is tough, but you are tougher. Stay strong and always be hopeful. I love your work. I always will. If I didn’t, then I wouldn’t have followed your blogging work for so long, even back in the “Really Petite” days of this blog. Cheers, Annie.
johnbmarine.blogspot.com
Thank you John for always being so kind and respectful 🙂
Annie, I want you to know that there are five bloggers that I follow religiously. You are one of them. The five of you give me inspiration, you make me smile, and keep me feeling creative in various areas of my life. I love your style, your positive attitude and seeing precious Milan. She is so adorable and always makes me smile. Everyone gets discouraged from time to time, that’s part of life, but please know that you have such a positive impact on so many lives. Thank you so much for putting yourself out there even though it’s difficult at times. Love to you and Milan! 💕💕
Hi Vicki! Aw you made my day! Thank you SO much for leaving this comment. I so appreciate you! I’m feeling better now thanks to all you amazing ladies! XO
Anne, You were the first person I followed on my blog lovin app. I find your style very refreshing and love your attention to detail! For such a young woman, you have much wisdom. My daughter just had a daughter, so I am a grandma for the first time. She too has experienced sleep training struggles. She even made a video because her daughter won’t drink milk from a cup or bottle so she’s struggling weaning her once and for all. She’s going to show the video to her pediatrician tomorrow to prove how hard motherhood can be. Every struggle brings personal growth. As I read your post, it’s obvious that you have a really balanced outlook on life. Your pictures are captivating and beautiful. Getting to know you tonight was refreshing. I too, try to post beautiful pictures on Facebook because I love beautiful things. I would not let the “trolls” throw you. Some people are never happy. Keep doing what you are doing because “you’ve got this”! There are blessings and beauty each day. Your posts show those things to the world! Keep doing what you’re doing! So many look forward to your pictures and posts! Thank you,
Janice Lucas
Awww Janice! Thank you so much for this! You are amazing. I’m so flattered that I was the first person you followed on bloglovin!
Heheh totally made my day!
I’m so sorry to hear about what your daughter is going through…motherhood is no joke! I really appreciate you reading and for leaving this comment- means so much! I’ve got this 🙂
As a mom too, I’m so sorry people feel they can criticize even your little one. Anonymity on the Internet makes people much bolder and meaner than in person. She’s precious and who cares if it’s a hat or turban?!
I barely know how to use all these formats-Instagram, LiketoKnow.it-so I can’t speak to those but I’m sure it must be difficult to navigate them as a blogger.
Best of luck to you ignoring the trolls and doubts and instead enjoying your lovely family.
Hi Annie! I know it will get better as your child gets older! I know the struggle. My kids are now 17 & 21! They do grow up fast so enjoy Milan now as much as you can. My one piece of advice is video tape her as much as you can.
Btw, Love your Instagram Acct. I’m a petit 53yo & follow you for quite sometimes now. I do see your post when you post. So keep up the good work & keep them coming!
You are a champ!! Ur doing a great job as a mom & other roles in ur life. U r an inspiration!!
Be strong & sending lots of ❤️ from 🇳🇿
Hi Annie,
I been away on vacation and just now catching up on my blogs. Keep your head up! Don’t worry about the haters. Keep doing what you’re doing! One of the reasons that I follow you is not just because I’m petite and looking for cute outfits, but because you’re real, inspiring, and you share your personal journey. Please know that you have way more supporters than haters. You personally helped me when I commented on a blog post and that meant so much! I wasn’t even expecting a reply but you did. It really meant a lot because I was going through a tough time then and you took the time out to reach out in the midst of your busy life. Keep doing you! You’re blessed and will continue to be blessed just by being your amazing, wonderful self.
Great Post, its true real life is beyond social media pictures. You are doing amazing job with blogging the days i m stressed i come and see your blogs they help to take my mind off and keep me in a happy place 🙂 Milan looks great with her turban n hat style n yes toddlers are anyway so adorable and people need to respect that they are kids and not pass judgement. Moms know best for their kids!!! keep rocking gurl
I love your style and can relate to what you say about social media. I think its harder when it has to do with our kids. I cannot imagine what could make anyone feel the need to put down a child.. the happiest kindest and cleanest hearted people in our society. We are blessed to see these real honest and authentic smiles from children and to want to break that is beyond me… Your blog is amazing. You are amazing. Don’t doubt yourself.
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