Silentish Saturday!!

3 miles @ 8:21 average pace.

Edited to add because I’m being told I’m unsupportive: this was Andrew’s idea.. he is with 3 of his siblings that are also going without their kids/spouses too… he said it would be easier to go on his own without kids so I am supporting him by being home with the kids. This was his choice. I’m a very supportive wife.

Andrew ended up driving to California yesterday with his parents.  He will be back tonight for some things he needs to get done.  It’s a very short trip so we decided it was best to avoid having Skye in the car for 18 hours to be there for only a little while.  Andrew is getting some quality time in with his parents and siblings which is really good for him too!

Saying their goodbyes.

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Burn Bootcamp arms day with my sister… she said that if I keep going with her for a few more months maybe I’ll be able to beat my mom in an arm wrestle.  That’s my next goal in life.

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Costco next.

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Lunch with ingredients from Costco.

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Brooke lost another tooth so my niece brought her a tooth pillow.

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That binky and her blanket are necessary for her to sleep.

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Chicken cream cheese chili leftovers for dinner.

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Dessert.

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Please let me know if any of you have tried the new donut sticks at McDonald’s… I’m very interested.

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Also, Skye had a donut headband yesterday.

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PS for any Million Little Things lovers… I think I had goosebumps about 20 times (I tried to get a picture of my goosebumps) during the episode.   Andrew and I watched it on Thursday night together and it was so so good.

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Tell me three things that you are doing today!!!

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116 comments

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That ballerina onesie of Skye’s is so cute! I read a review of the donut sticks–the reviewer said he’d had his doubts, but he really liked them! He said they’re VERY sweet, though. So maybe not breakfast. :-)

My dad is coming to see me! We’re going to go hiking; the weather kept going back and forth but it looks like the bad weather will hold off. Excited to be out in nature and moving. But before he gets here I have to finish tidying up . . . And, of course, we will eat a lot of good food while he’s here. Have a great weekend!!! I can’t believe it’s March!

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Good to know… we are going to have to try them today! Have the best time with your dad and out in nature (it is snowing here so enjoy some sunshine for us;). Enjoy the good food too. This year is already flying by.

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Wow first comment! Enjoy your saturday Janae! Enjoy your weekend. Loved your body image post from earlier in the week btw.

I did a 20 miler last week but i think I tweaked my Achilles somehow. I was supposed to do a 12 miler today but I won’t because walking hurts after a half of a mile. I’m bummed but hopefully if I take some time off my feet, It will be back to normal in a week. I would rather miss a week of taper than of training but this is frustrating. Today I’ll go to the gym and do some exercises that will keep me off my feet.

I’ll be going to the korean grocery store to get lots of good mushrooms, and then I’ll also be cooking all my food for the week because I won’t have a lot of time. I love ethnic grocery stores as much as you love costco. They are kind of similar in the sense that you never know what you’ll be able to get.

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Hey Savannah! I’m glad you liked that post. I am SO sorry about your Achilles but you are absolutely doing the right thing. The more rest during the taper the better. Keep me updated with how it is doing please:) . COME COOK FOR US!!

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A Million Little Things was soooo good!!!

Heading to the gym now and I am Marie Kondo-ing my attic today. If it doesn’t bring me joy..BYE. Then tonight we are going out to celebrate my future sister laws birthday!

Happy Saturday love!!

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You are inspiring me to do this for my closet today… good luck! Have so much fun celebrating tonight. Thanks Jess, you too! PS I wish we could all watch A Million Little Things together.

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Run
Shopping for a basement sectional
Dinner out after furniture shopping because somehow furniture stores make my brain too tired to cook.

Happy solo parenting. Some things are easier, some are harder.

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I want to go on a run with you today. Good luck with the shopping… furniture shopping is so hard. Let me know if you find something. Haha that is very true. Have a wonderful day Erica!

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As a fellow Costco lover, I realize the importance of the rotisserie chicken. 5 dollars has never gone so far. Enjoy the day!

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YES YES YES… It makes life so easy and delicious:) . Have a fabulous weekend Melissa!

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We are doing our Costco run today.
Then I might get my real run in (I’m finding motivation hard with the weather…but it’s almost spring!)
And planning our spring break trip! We are surprising our kids with Disneyland! I’m so excited, they have no idea we are even going anywhere right now. What are your guys’s favorite beaches near there?!

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AHHHHH I AM SO THRILLED FOR YOU JENNY!!! You guys are going to have the best time. I love Newport and San Clemente! Film their reactions to the surprise!
MORE SNOW?!?! Did you run in it?

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I will for sure film it and share it on Instagram. I’m so excited I feel like a kid haha! I did the treadmill this morning but I’m looking forward to not having to bundle up to run outside!

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We did that to our kids! Twice actually. Nothing could beat the reaction the first time. I agree with Janae, record the reaction! A decade later, they STILL talk about that Disney trip more than any other. ?

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Oh my gosh that makes me even more excited! My oldest has wanted to do this since she was 8 months old and loved the get away today commercials haha. I’ll definitely be recoding it and sharing on Instagram.

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Love the striped long sleeved running top in the first pic—- the shorts color too. Where did you get them?

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Thank you Cheryl! It is from lululemon! Here is the link:

https://shop.lululemon.com/p/tops-long-sleeve/Run-Swiftly-Long-Sleeve-Crew/_/prod8780007?color=32102

Have a great day!

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Your salad looks delish! I’m hitting up Costco later today so I’ll make sure to add a rotisserie chicken and avocados to my list! Good luck to Andrew making a solo trip. I agree, quick turn around trips are so hard on the littles.

My youngest has basketball, I’m using a friend’s Peloton bike, and we get to go and watch our running buddy with his band tonight (date night, yay!)

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YES YES YES… get both of those things and enjoy. I have been wanting to try out a Peloton bike. Have a perfect date night Marissa!

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Today I’m watching two different basketball games and I did a Z4 workout at my gym kind of like Burn Bootcamp.
My son tried the donut sticks and he said they tasted like mini Costco churro sticks. Of course he loved them and I love McDonald’s large diet cokes so it was a win.
Hope you have a great weekend!!

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Good to know.. we will have to go try some today! Way to go on the Z4 workout… these things make me so happy. Thanks Lauren, enjoy the games!

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Still trying to be smart about my hip issue, plus it’s a really rainy day here again, so it’s off to the gym to get some miles in on the elliptical!
Then I need to get stuff done around the house. Tonight we’re going to a birthday dinner for a sweet neighbor friend who’s turning 82. She’s such a great lady, super fun, tells great stories, so it should be a fun night.
Still keeping Andrew in my thoughts and prayers ❤️

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Thank you so much Wendy. I hope you get some great endorphins from the elliptical today and that your hip gets feeling better asap! Tonight sounds perfect… enjoy!

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Skye! ??? Her face in that first pic, though…ahhh!

Brooke is gonna be rich. ?

Way to go on the Burn Bootcamp! It’s so awesome that you’ve got your sis to go with you and you two can keep each other motivated. Workout partners really are so important!

Your Costco pics made me think of a Studio C skit my family and I watched last night. The moms gathering to create the battle plan for taking three children into Costco for the “semi-annual stock up.” Ah, those days…

So, your post is funnily timed because quite literally my first thought upon waking up this morning was “Man, I really, REALLY want a donut. I wonder if anyone even makes gluten free ones?” Then to see Skye in her bow and you asking about the donut sticks…I decided that today I think I’m going in search of a GF donut. So, if any of your Utah readers know of a good place (seriously though, no sawdust in the mouth, pretty please?), can they point a fellow HRG reader toward the light? ??

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OOMPh that is such a long drive. I swear I can’t stay seated more than a few hours anymore LOL. I’m working all weekend which I don’t mind.

Are you ready for your Ultra? Do you think you’ll write a post about things you were surprised about while training or things you learned?

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I’ve actually been working on a post about that and it will go up either this week or next:) . I actually feel very ready which is a different feeling than a lot of my races in the past! I hope you are having a great day at work Hollie!

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I love that striped long sleeve! I have a lulu gift card to spend so that might be it. ?
This was supposed to be my goal half marathon race weekend…but I ended up not going. I’m a little bummed, but after the flu and then ANOTHER bad cold in February, I decided to push it out. My goal seemed reachable before the sickness, so now I need to get some confidence back. Plus, I still don’t feel 100% and the weather where I was going is supposed to be pretty bad. I still have Boston 2018 ptsd. Haha.
Good luck solo parenting! You got this! Have a great weekend!

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1) 12 mile run in snow flurries but 27F so not horribly cold
2) hide out at home and don’t go anywhere because we’re supposed to get 8-10″ of snow
3) hiding out will probably involve Netflix, baking, reading, and snow shoveling

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Happy Saturday! I read your blog Every. Single. Day. Thank you for being part of my day!! I am just starting on my journey back to strength and wellness. I see (and feel in every muscle and joint!) a long road ahead!! For some motivation, I registered for an 8k in May. It will be my first race in 2 years…whoa!!

Did a Pilates class this morning and immediately wanted a donut afterward! A wine & cheese party later, followed by watching a basketball game at the school where I work. Have an awesome weekend!!

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Nina. THANK YOU for allowing me to be part of your day! SO excited to hear about your journey and I am cheering so loud for you over here. I cannot wait for your 8k. You are amazing! Enjoy the party and game. Thanks!

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Oh man, poor Andrew. Death sucks. I had to go to California when my dad died and my husband and kids couldn’t go. The school year had just started and there was so much to do…I was out there for almost 2 weeks in the end. We had planned for him to meet me out there, and his mom was going to fly in from out of the country, but her flight had security issues and she was re-routed back home. In some ways, it was better to face my grief and all the memories in everything I had to sort through on my own. And there were times I definitely wished he was there with me too. Sometimes life just doesn’t work out in the perfect way. Andrew knows you are supporting him and love him even if you are not there.

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Jodi, I am so sorry that you lost your father. That breaks my heart. Thank you for sharing your story with me, it means a lot. Have a beautiful weekend Jodi.

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Sadly it is just life. It was 2 1/2 years ago, he was 81. I knew he loved me, he knew I loved him. There was peace in an easy passing for him. But of course I still miss him and always will. However, my mom has to live until 100+ because doing life without her is unthinkable. ?

I think you did the right thing by staying home with a 1 year old. A toddler at a funeral isn’t exactly fun…not to mention the long drive both ways Haters gonna hate…you have a successful blog and sadly people will judge because they can. Don’t give it a second thought. You know the decision made between you and Andrew. It really doesn’t matter what the internet thinks.

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Sorry you are recieving backlash on the funeral decision. Obviously you guys made the best decision for your family! And honestly it may be a more peaceful trip for Andrew to go and remember and celebrate his Grandpa’s life, than if you all had gone. Traveling with the whole crew, especially little little kids is not easier. Hope you have a great weekend:)

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Thank you so much Leslee. You are the best…. PS is this the Leslee I know in real life? I saw your email and was wondering if this was my spin Leslee from like 10 years ago? Sorry if I am being a creeper and thanks again!

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Yes, I used to come to your spin classes back in Provo and loved them! I wasnt’ sure you would still remember me. I love reading your blog and am actually friends with Brooke’s Aunt Shelly here in Iowa. Small world!

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Oh it is so good to hear from you! I love it! Shelly is the best… tell her hi from me! Next time you are back in utah come say hi!

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I am so sorry for the unkind comments you got about not being supportive. I’m sure you wish you were able to be there with him but with such a quick trip that would be really tough. You two are amazing parents & I am thinking of Andrew and your family right now.
I’m at a gymnastics competition for my daughter and then home to clean and hopefully relax! I hope you have a good weekend.

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Thank you so much Sarah for your thoughts and sweet comment! I hope the competition went great and enjoy your relaxing:) . Thanks!

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I got my 5 mile run in this morning, then went to sell my baby carrier and got everyone lunch. The rest of the day I plan on resting and I guess making dinner :)

Totally makes sense to me with little ones to let Andrew go with his parents. You are a very supportive wife and a great mom!!! Plus a kick butt runner!!

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Thank you so much Lisa and way to go on your run this morning. I hope that the resting is going well and that you have something delicious for dinner!

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Trying to get ready for our Disney trip. I was going to do all my errands yesterday however my girls had a snow day!!! And even at age 8 and 11, I just was not going to take them on errands. Another storm is coming tomorrow so today is my day!! My girls think we are going to visit cousins so a lot of what I need to pack is secret!
I am sorry you are receiving negative feedback for the funeral. Bereavement and all that surrounds it is such a personal thing. There is no right and wrong and honestly no one needs to explain why they do what they do during these times.

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I hope you have the best time at Disney and I LOVE THAT YOU ARE SURPRISING THEM! This is the best… stay warm in the snow!

Thank you for your sweet words and you are so right:)

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I’m sorry you’re having to defend that Andrew went by himself. People are so mean to judge those things. I understand how distracting it can be to try to celebrate a life of a loved one with small ones who are wonderful (but can be very distracting from why they’re there and adding a lot of complications to long distance trips.)

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Thank you Emily! You are so right and Andrew has been texting me about what an incredible experience he was able to have saying goodbye and time with his family and I’m not sure it would have been that way with little ones. Thank you and have an awesome weekend!

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Yeah I have to agree that the comment from “Jen” was very ignorant. And I’m baffled that someone would read your bog post and lash out in that way, but I guess she has her reasons! Before I even read your explanation it made total sense to me that Andrew went alone. Obviously there would be other different situations where you all woud have gone, but this time it would have been so incredibly stressful for him to have to make the trip with Skye. What probably would have happened was, after a very stressful drive, Skye would have been so cranky that you would have missed the actual funeral because you were sitting outside with her while she screamed her head off. Then you all would have gotten in the car to drive back (something very similar to this has actually happened to me.) So I’m going to go the other way and commend you on making a very wise decision! Condolences to Andrew… have a great day Janae!

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Jenny, thank you so much for writing to me. I think your prediction is 100% on and I’m so sorry something similar happened to you guys! Have a fabulous weekend and thanks again.

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Janae,

Don’t listen to the couple negative comments. Why don’t people keep their negative comments to themselves…. Follow the golden rule people. Anyways I’m a huge “Janae” fan and no one knows what is best for each family.

Have a great weekend!

Tammy

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Thank you and I am a huge Tammy fan:) . I hope you are having an amazing weekend and thank you so much for taking the time to write to me.

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Hang in there, Janae! It’s too bad that someone made you feel like you had to explain yourself-you are a great mom, and as a mom of four, I know exactly how tough it would have been to make that trip. “Jen” seems like an unhappy person that could use some prayer! Also confused as to why she evens reads your blog if that’s how she feels, but oh well. You keep rocking the mom/runner thing!

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Thank you so much Shana, this means a lot to me! Your four kiddos are so lucky to have such a kind mama! Have a beautiful weekend:)

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Wow! What does it matter to people about arrangements you made with your husband. It’s between the 2 of you. The thought of that drive with young kids makes me anxious. We are busy getting ready to fly to San Diego tomorrow to go to LEGO Land and the zoo! I can’t wait. My boys are so excited and I’m ready to get out of the Utah snow for a bit! Have a good weekend!

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Thank you Angie!! I hope you have the most amazing time with your family at LEGO Land and the zoo… the best! I thought Utah was in the clear… go enjoy some sunshine!

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Hey! I love your blog and have been reading it every day for almost 7 years. Thank you for being so open and sharing your life in a fun relatable way! I am so sorry that some people are unkind or assume the worst.
I just want you to know I appreciate you

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THANK YOU for taking the time to write a comment and for reading for 7 years… you are the best. Thank you Danielle and I sure hope your Saturday has been great so far!

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Wow, absolutely shocked at her comments. I know it’s so hard to remember this, but you know deep down this kind of negativity is never about you, it’s all about the person saying them. For anyone to say completely undeniably rude things like that to someone they hardly know CLEARLY means they’re unhappy about something in their life and they’re taking it out on you. It’s completely unfair, you did nothing to provoke this, AND you handled it so dang gracefully too. You’re doing a great job! Try your best to shake it off and enjoy the people that know you and care about you! ❤️❤️

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Michelle, thank you so much for your comment. Thank you… your words are so wise. I hope you are having a wonderful day and thank you for spreading kindness! xoxo

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Hey-

Don’t ever worry about the negative comments. You clearly prioritize family over all and it shows every day.
FWIW when my amazing,beautiful FIL died I went with my husband and daughter who was just Skye’s age and never even went to the funeral because it just wasn’t the right place for a squirmy,active toddler! So I totally understand,and it’s nice Andrew will be with his siblings. We all need to walk (or run) a mile in someone else’s shoes!

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I am so sorry that you lost your FIL. I am so so sorry.
Yes yes yes, that is exactly how we felt! Skye yells throughout church and we just didn’t feel it was right for the funeral! Thanks for taking the time to write to me and for your kindness. I hope you are having a wonderful weekend.

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Janae you just amaze me. Honestly, the grace in which you and your mom replied is incredible. I don’t think you even need to reply though. Just ignore them. 98% of your readers, esp long time readers know your heart and how supportive your family are. Love you guys. Xx

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Thank you Leigh. This means the world to me. Thank you for reading over the years and I LOVE YOU! I hope you are having a wonderful Saturday and thanks for spreading kindness today!

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? to your entire family.

Please do not give that unkind comment ANOTHER THOUGHT! You don’t ever need to defend yourself here. I ❤️ your mom for participating and I would have done the same thing. When your child hurts you hurt. Period. Take a deep breath. Relax and maybe watch some episodes of Friends ? ☂

and Jen.. I hope you everything is going well in your life. Please be kind. Life is too short.

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Thank you so much Sydney… you are the best and I think you are 100% right, I’m going to watch some Friends tonight as I wait for Andrew to get home. I hope you are having a great Saturday and thanks for taking the time to write to me!

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When DH’s father died unexpectedly, we left our then 2 and 5yo at home with others. It was in some ways a relief to be able to grieve FIL as a “child” and not have to be “parent” to your own child. In that way, I hope Andrew’s trip with his family is healing as they grieve. (I share my story not to tell you that you “should have” gone with him, but instead to share that there is wisdom in the way you guys arranged his trip.)

You guys make a great team (or, it sure seems that way!) DH and I have been married for 18 years, and are still going strong. I think it’s because we treat life and parenting as a team sport. He always has my back .. I always have his. We try our best to support each other in pursuing the things that feel important.. even when an outsider looking in doesn’t understand or thinks we are “wrong”. You guys seem to have a similar life philosophy in your marriage. My condolences to Andrew and you – it’s hard to lose someone you love, and painful to watch your spouse grieve and not be able to “fix” it.

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Amy, thank you so much for sharing your story. I am so sorry about what your family went through. What you said about grieving as the child and not having to be the parent gave me goosebumps… I think that is exactly what Andrew needed. Thank you for your sweet words and I just shook my head up and down with that second paragraph too. You are a great example to me. Have a beautiful day Amy!

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Janae: what a beautiful wife and mother and daughter and sister you are! I know this from all the love you share on this blog everyday! Those photos with all the smiles and hugs do not lie. I cannot tell you how many times I’ve come here to get courage to keep running and working hard for my goals. I’m so very thankful for you!

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Belle, thank you so much for your sweet comment! Keep coming back and keep me updated with how your running and goals are going! Have a wonderful day:)

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I should share with you that I eat a salad everyday at my desk and read your daily post at 11:30 am. It’s like this little bright spot in my work day when I get to eat a salad (you got me started on those) and read my daily dose of positivity (your blog). ❤️

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Hi Janae, I’m a long time reader but I think I only posted once or twice. You are such a bright, wonderful part of my day! I hope you know that the hateful comment wasn’t really about you. It’s about the person who commented. Most people who hate on other people are struggling with themselves and things in their lives. There was no need to justify your family’s decision. Long travel in a short period of time and little kids don’t mix. Parents know that. I hope you have a great day! Keep being amazing!

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Thank you so much Alice! I really appreciate you taking the time to write to me, it means a lot. Thank you and please keep me updated on how you are doing. Thank you for reading over the years and happy weekend!

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Wow. I’m shocked by the judgement you received. If the person who is so critical of decisions you and your spouse make perhaps they should quit reading your blog. I can’t imagine wasting my time snarking “anonymously” on a blog that I voluntarily read.
20 miler today and the last three were rough. Only two more long runs before Boston to get it figured out.

Heading to my church’s youth conference to spend time with my girls (Miamaids). Other leaders held down the fort so I could get my run in.

Kicking of my husband’s birthday season tonight.

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Rene! Thank you so much for your sweet comment. You are so kind. WAY TO GO ON YOUR 20 and remember getting through those 3 miles on race day when the going gets tough… you will see your strength! Boston is going to be an incredible experience for you. Oh enjoy youth conference (I’m in the beehives now wahoo). Happy birthday season to your husband. Enjoy!

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Hi Janae,

There’s nothing at all for you to feel badly about. Im shocked that people even pass judgement on these matters because at the end of the day, your readers choose to come here to read about your life, and you could have hidden or edited reality, but were authentic as we trust you to be. Honestly, thank you for always being so willing to share. I’m not sure if people appreciate how vulnerable that can be and it’s this ability of yours that has resonated for me on different topics that I so appreciate.

A year ago my dad was in the hospital for a month and I spent time out of state and back and forth with work/home to support him. I asked my boyfriend to stay behind to help manage things at home so that I could focus and be present with my dad. And when there was a moment I needed the in person support, I asked him to come. I know you don’t need the validation, but wanted to demonstrate the myriad approaches to support within partnerships.

Thinking of your family this weekend!

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Wow! Just wanted to say I’m sorry about the unkind comments you received this morning.
I’ve been reading your blog since Brooke was Skye’s age. You’re obviously an amazing Mom and very supportive wife so don’t let one person’s comment bring you down!
I hope you have a great rest of your day!!

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Janae,
I have been reading every single day for like 7 years and I hardly ever comment. I can’t believe some people make you feel like you have to justify your family’s decisions! Thank you for sharing so much of your life with us and for spreading positivity in every way. You are seriously the best!

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Hi Janae, I’ve been a longtime reader but very rarely commented. I just wanted to say that in all the years I’ve read your blog you’ve maintained a positive energy even during what must have been very difficult times. The grace with which you’ve handled massive life changes on the fairly regular has really inspired me. No rando on the internet (including myself in there) has the knowledge to fully understand what’s going on in your life, but there will always be people who feel in the right to pass judgment. And they do – on the internet, at the grocery store, at the office, on the street. Trolls. Exist. Everywhere. But your positive nature has helped me ignore the trolls in my own life, so I just wanted to say thank you so much. So so sorry to hear of Andrew’s loss; death sucks and each person grieves in his or her own way. Sending as many positive vibes as I can to you folks.

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Janae, I’m so sorry for the personal attack you and Andrew have to deal with about extremely *personal* issues. I know you have it handled and your sweet mom obviously didn’t need the stress of feeling like she needed to defend herself, but I just wanted you to know all of you have an “extra” cheerleader over here. ❤️ (Wishing I had a shirt like the one Brooke wore the other day! ?)

If it helps at all, when my brother passed away, my husband and I had three little ones and we had to make a very fast decision if I should get on a plane and try to make it to his bedside in time (lived 2000 miles away). We decided it would be better for me to be at the funeral because we honestly didn’t know if my brother had minutes or hours. Turns out I might have made it, but just barely. I got judged so hard by people who had no place to have an opinion on that for not getting on a plane because I “could have made it.” Oh to have a crystal ball. ? Then when it came time to head out to the funeral, we decided it would be best if just I went and my husband stayed behind with the children, for several reasons. Right after we bought the plane ticket, we found out I was pregnant, then the next day I began threatening a miscarriage. I mean…it was a lot to deal with but me going out alone was what was best for our family. So we made sure I had doctor clearance and I went. And so help me, I felt like I was excusing myself and my family non-stop to everyone who WASN’T actually family. I did end up having a miscarriage and you’d think that the people (church, neighbors, friends) around me, once I got home, would close ranks and rally. Instead all I heard was “Well, why didn’t your husband go with you to support you? Why did your doctor let you go? You could have found a babysitter.” To this day, over 16 years later, my opinion and thoughts are still this: MY circus, MY monkeys. My husband helped me and loved me through that really difficult time exactly the way I needed him to! I couldn’t have asked him to have done it any better.

I’m so glad you were willing and able to do for Andrew what HE needed you to do. That’s what matters more than anything. You are a wonderful wife and mother! Don’t let the Muggles get you down. (<—That was totally for Andrew’s benefit, haha. ?) Keep smiling, girl! You got this!

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Today, we went out to enjoy the sunshine at the beach because it was gorgeous out.

Then we came home I did my own nails. They turned out surprisingly well! Pink with sparkles (regular polish). Might have to do this more often.

Also taking a rest day from running – because yesterday I ran and then my friend and I headed up a mountain for sunset (totally worth it). We set a pb for us because she was on a mission. This despite me whining half the time because I wanted to stop more and I thought we would be going at a more leisurely pace ha.

P.S. – I can’t believe someone actually said you were being un supportive. Hello, I can’t travel imagining travelling 18 hours in the car with a baby for a short haul trip. I hope the trip goes well for Andrew under these sad circumstances and thinking of your family!

Have a great weekend Janae!

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Of course you’re a supportive wife, and I’m sorry if other people said you weren’t. I flew out to my grandfather’s funeral by myself a few years ago, while my husband stayed home with the kids. Totally normal, and it’s what worked best for us and our family.

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Love you Janae!! So glad that you always do what is best for you and for your family!! I’m at the Lauren Daigle concert tonight in Mn! With grandparents watching my kids!! It’s so good to be so loved by so many- just like you!!

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Hi Janae. I’m will be thinking about you and Andrew. You are the best! I read your blog every day and am here for you in internet world! Lots of love!

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I am sure you and Andrew made a good call and thought your decision through thoroughly. You guys seem to have a mutually supportive relationship (at least based on what I see on the blog). I would normally say, “You don’t owe anyone an explanation.” I’m not sure if/how that line gets blurred for bloggers. That must be really hard.

Today I’m playing solo parent while my husband is at a church event all weekend. He does loads of solo-parenting during the evening to support my work and interests. I’m happy I get a turn being solo parent while he does enriching things (and a little terrified about doing it all alone). To keep me sane I was trying to keep it simple with the kids, which obviously means taking a 6 year old to the grocery store on a Saturday was not my greatest decision ever. Yikes! That place is too crowded for a kid who is either poorly steering the cart or trying to walk beside me in the narrow aisles. I had a good laugh (after we got home safely).

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Hi Janae!

Today I am finishing Week 3 of my Half Marathon Training, meal prepping, and doing homework (I’m going to school for Nursing like Andrew!)

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Hi Janae. Ran 3 miles with my son today, did the bills, and watched some basketball.

I mainly stopped in to say you have a wonderful family and are an inspiration to your online community. Don’t worry about any negative comments one bit.

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Hi Janae,
It breaks my heart to read the unkind comments toward you. I rarely comment but I had to after being rather distraught. You shouldn’t even have to explain yourself in the first place. It actually just makes me feel bad for that person/people…they must not be in a very good place. I’ll be thinking about you as your Ultra gets closer! Keep up the hard work, you’re such an inspiration!!!
Liz

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I’m going to go out on a limb and say that Jen up there had somebody important to her die and her significant other didn’t want to go to the funeral with her, and rather than hash that out with them, she’s lashing out somewhere she won’t face any real repercussions. I really love the “signed up for an ultra for you” idea. Did he ditch it for you too? ;)

Anywho, as ever, it’s a joy to read about your family and see cute kid and yummy food pics. Three things I did: ran 3.5 miles (supposed to be 4, but ran out of time before dinner), started a work project that’s been on my mind for months, and started reading Leadership in Turbulent Times, which so far is fascinating.

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You are just so amazing! I ran in a 10K today and was really trying to push myself- when it was tough I thought “what you hungry runner girl do?” Count steps! So I did that and it helped! :) I took 2nd place which was so cool and I had no idea I was so close to the front! Thanks for being such a light.

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I don’t think I’ve ever commented, but I’ve been reading since what feels like forever.

Every time you feel like you need to explain something because some insensitive person on the internet feels that they have the right to pass judgement on you, I get mentally fired up.

You don’t need to explain exactly how your support your husband. You don’t need to explain exactly where your children are when you and Andrew go somewhere (i.e. like when you explain who is watching Skye when she’s napping and you’re both out running). Anyone who thinks you’d leave your 14-month old child home alone clearly hasn’t been reading your blog for more than two seconds.

You do you, sister. Explain as much or as little as you like. But don’t explain because you feel compelled to answer to these folks who have nothing better to do in their lives than rag on your family.

I hope Andrew being with his family brings him some peace. And I hope you have a good weekend for the kids.

Run steady and stay true to you, Janae.

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Omggggg I never comment but it’s ridiculous when people think they have more info than you do about your own life. Don’t let it get to you! Channel it if you need to!

As for your mom defending you – she must have just had it! She probably bites her tongue a lot and Jens comment was the last straw. You’re lucky to have her love and support, how sad that others see that as a bad thing.

Good luck with your ultra !

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What is wrong with people!? I am so sorry for you that you had to have that person say that. Whatever you and your husband decide to do for anything is no one’s business but yours. And it’s ridiculous that people think they can judge you just because you have a blog – that doesn’t give them the right to be rude.

Also………….there is no way they have kids if they think taking 3 little ones in a car for 20 hrs for a 3 hour turnaround is a good idea! I hope you don’t take it personally. I love your blog and keep up the good work. :)

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For almost all but the closest relatives’ funerals in the past few years since I’ve had kids, my husband’s gone alone to represent the family. one of them was the mum of a very dear friend (who had herself passed away when we were 15 years old) – my in laws know the family too and I really wanted to go. AND I stay in a small country. Let me join the others in saying I’m sorry you got hated on for this post. It was clear Andrew and you decided this was the best decision for the family this time round.

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I love everything you write and I envy your family immensely. Especially the support you receive from your entire family. The advice/insight that your family guests have posted on your blog (either in comments or posts) and your daily posts seriously come up in my head multiple times a day. You really help me live more positively.My love is with you all! Onward!:)?

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I can’t believe you have to defend your choice to stay back from California! Oh my gosh! I’m a consistent reader of your blog and I’ve seen nothing but support from both you and Andrew on the various activities of your lives. I know you’re going to post most of the positives, but I feel like you guys actually have one of the healthiest marriages I’ve seen in a while. You both are amazing and I really hope that the kind voices in your life (family, friends, nice commentators like me ;) can ring louder than the unkind voices!

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Sorry for the haters! Hopefully it’s a troll trying to cause trouble — surely no one is truly that hateful! Though I’m probably being overly optimistic. Either way, it’s horrible and I hate that you have to deal with it!

Question — I love your sunglasses!! What brand are they?

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We drove that same distance last summer to attend my husband Grandma’s funeral with an 18 month old. Twenty minutes into the car ride there he started crying and saying “all done. Home now?” Sooooo yeah, no judgement from me on this one!!? Not to mention most of the funeral was spent chasing around outside in heels in 100 degree temps. You do what’s best for your family, words I live by now as a mom.

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All I’m going to say is it takes a TRIBE/VILLAGE when it comes to parenting and kiddos <3 Sending you extra love today!! XO

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Can you send a link for your long sleeve in the first photo?! I am sorry if you get asked this a ton. I LOVE it!

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Trolls are awful, and good for you to stand up to someone just being plain mean. I think we all want to ignore the underbelly of the internet, but it’s good so see people stand up to them as well. Keep doing you, I love your blog and IDK what I would do if it wasn’t part of my morning routine! Sorry to comment only because someone is acting lame, but sending you love to you and your family during this hard time.

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Hi Janae,
I just wanted to chime in that I more than agree with the choice to divide and conquer for Andrew’s grandfather’s funeral. I just went to my grandfather’s funeral (also in CA) and my sister and I agreed that we wouldn’t have our fiance/husband join us. It was really nice to have sister time and immediate family time. My fiance and my sister’s husband did not know our grandfather well and we did not need them to be there to emotionally support us. I bet Andrew’s brothers and the rest of his family enjoyed and cherished the rare one-on-one time they got with Andrew.
Just my 2 cents from my own experience.
xoxo, Jen

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Janae,

I’m a long time reader who rarely comments. I usually don’t even read the comments on blogs but for some reason I read yours today. I’m so sorry that there are people out there who feel the need to bring others down. You seem like such a lovely person and I thoroughly enjoy your blog for the interesting and positive content that you consistently put out. As an internet stranger, I’m sending lots of positive thoughts to you and your entire family and I hope all the positive thoughts and comments that you get today (and every day) continue to drown out all those you treat you poorly. <3

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Hi Janae! Just a random reader here from Pennsylvania!! I’m sorry you received some negativity here during what I know had to be a stressful time in your family’s life. It’s sad we live in a world where people look to tear others down instead of build them up. Chin up and I wish you all the best. I am a loyal reader, even though I can no longer run, I still enjoy others pursuits in my favorite sport! Can’t wait for your ultra!!
XO.

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I too am a first time commenter who got fired up (as another poster put it so well) by your edit. Hearing someone lashed out at you for a personal and mutual choice you and your husband made was very sad. I know that plenty of people hop online solely to make Boogeymen out of the people they find there and so, given all that I’m sure you have to deal with in that regard, I’m very glad you choose not only to keep blogging, but to continue being so open about difficult topics. I found your blog looking for just straight running content, but I’ve been really grateful to find a space where someone (you!) was speaking about being both passionate about running for running’s sake while still being mindful of having an ED past. Since this post is a bit old at this point, I’ll also wish you good luck this weekend with the 50 miler!

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