Welcome back Framily! This year marks the first time my family and I won't be spending Christmas in Florida, a tradition that has followed us for our entire lives. Growing up as Floridians, Christmas has always been about sun-soaked celebrations, but this year, we felt the need for a change—primarily due to my ongoing journey with PTSD.

Losing our son in a car accident thirteen years ago has shaped my life in profound ways, including intense triggers associated with driving. This year, I chose to prioritize my mental health and seek a peaceful holiday free from panic.

Join me as I recount a challenging day spent driving to Albuquerque to fulfill our children's Christmas wishes. I navigate the anxiety of the trip, the chaos of crowded stores, and the overwhelming sights and sounds that often trigger my PTSD. Through this experience, I reflect on the deeper meaning of Christmas and the importance of being present in the moment, rather than getting lost in the consumerism that often overshadows the season.

This episode is about more than just holiday traditions; it’s an invitation to understand that not all disabilities are visible and the energy it takes to find calm amidst the chaos. Thank you for joining me in my inner world as I share my thoughts on love, loss, and the true spirit of the holidays.

🫶jenn

If you'd like to read more of our story, check ⁠Jenn's Blog Archive!⁠

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Our dream was to create a place to welcome any and every one. To love you and be there for you, and most importantly, to make you feel like you aren't ALONE.

The Bethoonies is a space where we encourage you to ALWAYS STAY WEIRD! We are creating a community of people from all different backgrounds, races, orientations, genders, preferences, colors, and lifestyles. We truly love EVERYONE and are thankful for you individual eccentricities. Here, you can create your own profile, make comments, react to our posts and each other. YOU are our FAMILY now!

I'm so glad you're here today as I share a recent experience with my partner, Kyle. As many of you know, for much of our time together, Kyle has faced monthly depressive cycles that have often led to triggering moments. As I’ve embarked on my own inner healing journey, I've realized how my ego has influenced my decisions, often steering me away from what truly serves my highest good. Recently, we've made significant strides in addressing these challenges. However, during a recent moment of autonomy on my part, I found myself triggering him again. This time, though, I approached the situation differently. This moment led to a powerful conversation about our experiences and how we can grow from these resets in the future.

Today I share the story and the importance of self-care in relationships, and how nurturing ourselves first creates the capacity to love and support those around us.

I love you and I'm so glad you're here.

🫶jenn

If you'd like to read more of our story, check ⁠Jenn's Blog Archive!⁠

WHERE TO FIND THE BETHUNES:

⁠Our Website⁠

⁠Watch our YouTube Vlogs⁠

⁠Find us on Instagram⁠

⁠BECOME A BETHOONIE! ⁠

Our dream was to create a place to welcome any and every one. To love you and be there for you, and most importantly, to make you feel like you aren't ALONE.

The Bethoonies is a space where we encourage you to ALWAYS STAY WEIRD! We are creating a community of people from all different backgrounds, races, orientations, genders, preferences, colors, and lifestyles. We truly love EVERYONE and are thankful for you individual eccentricities. Here, you can create your own profile, make comments, react to our posts and each other. YOU are our FAMILY now!

Welcome back Framily. Today I'm sharing a personal reflection sparked by something as seemingly simple as...armpit hair! I'm recounting the aftermath of our 30 day VANcation and how, upon our return to New Mexico, I was confronted with a moment of truth— Did I really want to shave? What would others think of my appearance? Despite not feeling bothered by my body hair all summer, societal pressures pulled me back into the cycle of self-criticism.

I found myself questioning the very norms that dictate beauty and self-worth.Why do women feel the need to conform to these standards, while men are often exempt? As I explored the cultural implications of beauty standards, I realized how deeply they infiltrate our self-esteem, often passed down through generations. These expectations tell us we must be thin, perfectly groomed, and always seeking validation from others.

I believe that using life’s little moments as mirrors can inspire profound transformation in our self-worth. Join me as I read my blog aloud, inviting you to embrace the journey of self-acceptance and challenge the societal norms that attempt to define our beauty.

🫶jenn

If you'd like to read more of our story, check ⁠Jenn's Blog Archive!⁠

WHERE TO FIND THE BETHUNES:

⁠Our Website⁠

⁠Watch our YouTube Vlogs⁠

⁠Find us on Instagram⁠

⁠BECOME A BETHOONIE! ⁠

Our dream was to create a place to welcome any and every one. To love you and be there for you, and most importantly, to make you feel like you aren't ALONE.

The Bethoonies is a space where we encourage you to ALWAYS STAY WEIRD! We are creating a community of people from all different backgrounds, races, orientations, genders, preferences, colors, and lifestyles. We truly love EVERYONE and are thankful for you individual eccentricities. Here, you can create your own profile, make comments, react to our posts and each other. YOU are our FAMILY now!