I met Jen a few years ago when she came to my house for a little photo get together I used to host. I liked her immediately but what really sealed the deal was when everyone left and she stayed for just a few more drinks. First impression…my kind of girl. Over the years we got to know each other better and better and as I sit here today she is someone that I am not only so grateful to have in my life…but someone I look up to more than she will ever know. Jen is an amazing photographer…a wife…a daughter…a friend…and a truly incredible mom. When you meet her it’s honestly like a breath of fresh air. She’s genuine and kind and hilarious…not to mention it’s impossible not to have a blast when you’re with her. We recently spent a few a days together in Mexico and what a time we had. 😉 She is so unbelievably strong and watching her this last year take every stride with such grace and courage…there is no doubt in my mind that she is one hell of a difference maker. And I, for one, am proud to know her.
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JEN SEXTON
I rarely leave the house without applying foundation or mascara. Taking a photo sans makeup and posting it on the internet was extremely hard for me. This was one of the last pictures my husband snapped on my camera. I was trying to be all serious while smiling with my eyes until I busted out laughing. This is me. A fun-loving person who just wants to have a good time regardless of the situation.
I have a crooked smile and it bothers me every time I see it in pictures. I’m self conscious about my teeth not being straight and having a small chip on my front tooth. I’ve considered getting braces for the second time and having my tooth fixed for the fourth time.
I can be incredibly indecisive.
When it comes to my personal life, I’m always running late and it gives me anxiety. I’m working on this.
Growing up, I spent hours on our home phone chatting to my friends. Today, my preferred communication is text or email. It gives me a chance to think about what I’m saying.
It takes me five times longer than the average person to write a paragraph. I’m just not good with words.
I refuse to purchase designer jeans until I’ve lost 10 lbs. I’ve been saying this for the past 10 years.
I fear that I’m constantly being judged by others.
If there was a company that embodied procrastination, I’d be the CEO.
I’m grateful for the friendships I’ve made but sometimes I doubt how good of a friend I actually am.
We don’t have cable because I’d never get anything accomplished. I’m horrible with time management and I’m obsessed with junky reality TV. Enough said.
I took out a student loan to fund a trip to Mexico during spring break when I was a sophomore in college. Traveling has been a priority in my life ever since.
My husband is my rock and I’m very proud of the strong and honest relationship we’ve built.
I will usually never turn down a cocktail, regardless of the time of day.
While 24 weeks pregnant, we received a diagnosis that our daughter tested positive for Down syndrome. We refused any genetic testing at the beginning of our pregnancy. I believe if we would have found out her diagnosis at this time, I wouldn’t be a Mom today. It pains my heart to think this but it’s true.
I can’t remember the last time all of our laundry was washed and put away. It’s been well over 6 years. I claim we don’t have the closet space for all our clean clothes but in reality I’m just horrible at keeping up with the laundry.
I don’t give my mom enough credit for all she’s done for me. I just want her to know how much I appreciate her in my life and that I wouldn’t be the mom I am today without her guidance.
I really dislike doing the dishes even if it’s loading/unloading the dishwasher. Letting the dishes soak in water is is my way of hoping my husband will take care of them. Unfortunately, he’s caught on. Sigh.
I thought I’d be one of those super mama’s and master cloth diapers. After a week I realized I’d never be able to keep up with the laundry and haven’t used them since.
The amount of happiness our daughter brings to our lives is one I never thought was possible. I couldn’t imagine my life without her.
I avoid filling my car with gas until I’m below empty. I’m certain I can drive at least 15 miles after my car flashes 0 miles. Numerous people have explained to me how horrible this is for my car and I continued to brush it off. Last week we replaced the fuel pump. Now, I’m eating my words.
When I laugh hard or smile big my nose scrunches. I’ve considered having Botox injections to prevent this from happening.
My husband and I made a pact last week to avoid fast food until the end of June. Yesterday, I had a dipped cone from McDonald’s. I have little self control.
I fear that my daughter will be bullied her entire life because she’s not what our society considers typical.
I’m slowly learning if someone doesn’t like me for who I am then our relationship wasn’t meant to be, and that’s okay.
I joke that I have a parking fairy that follows me around but really, I always have luck finding a parking spot.
This past year has shown me how strong of a person I actually am.
Life’s journey is unpredictable. No matter how hard we work or how much we plan, sometimes we are forced to travel down unexpected or less favorable paths. Often times, it’s those paths that surprisingly bring us the most joy and clarity in life. Never doubt who you are as a person because of the flaws you think you may have. What makes you different, makes you beautiful.
by laurenwakefield
Lauren! Please continue these! And Jen, my goodness you ARE BEAUTIFUL! Thank-you for sharing the depths of your beauty!
Nancy, your gentle heart and free spirit are so inspiring. I’m so thankful to have met you and hope to continue to connect each year! 😉
this was so raw and beautiful at the same time. I loved every word
As someone who as taken, edited and studied hundreds of pictures of you – I absolutely never noticed your crooked smile or chipped tooth. Clearly so much else about you outshines those “flaws”.
What a lovely post, and a great sense of self-awareness we can all learn from.
And, it’s been too long since I’ve admired Navi’s chubby cheeks! :0)