an honest life update | Vlogmas Day 7

[@rlb179]

DO NOT EVER FEEL LIKE YOU CANT TALK ABOUT YOUR DAD TO US!!! You never fully heal from losing a loved one especially an important one like your dad, you just make room for it. Whatever decision you make to have your dad be with you at your wedding will be beautiful regardless!

[@danielledechavez2800]

Gretchen please never stop sharing about your Dad to others or us! As someone who has lost a parent I ALWAYS feel like I talk too much about her and that I’m inconveniencing others by bringing her up (even if it’s just a happy memory or story). But when I hear you talk about him I feel comfort and validation in missing my mom so so much. My wedding has also been something I’m nervous about for the same reasons you mentioned, losing a parent so young is so tough. You aren’t alone and you are such an inspiration to me in my grief journey as well. Sending you so much love ❤️

[@hallybeers9828]

I lost my mom in high school. When I got married I had a table of pictures for people who have passed. I also did the tiny picture on my bouquet. My wedding color scheme was her favorite color. It’s such an emotional day celebrating one of the best days of your life. I just tried to remind myself that although I couldn’t see her, I could feel her presence the whole day. And remember that it’s okay to cry! Your wedding day is all about you and your husband and if you cry that’s okay! It’s refreshing to find someone on KZbin who knows what it’s like to lose a parent so young. Keep talking about your dad. Talking about my mom allows me to work through my grief and I want everyone to know just how amazing she was! 💕

[@xindigochildx]

So very sorry for your loss 🌸 sending all my love

[@kyra3]

Gretchen, please keep talking about your dad. I lost my dad in April and have found so much comfort in your videos. Shortly after losing him I scrolled back to your videos from years ago when you first lost your dad and even though we don't know each other, I felt so much less alone in the horrible situation that losing a parent is. I bet he's so incredibly proud of you and can't wait to see the beautiful bride that you're going to be.

[@Lives2Dance100]

I lost my dad a few months ago and everytime you mention your dad I feel immediately better and less alone. Never ever ever ever stop talking about him. I could listen to you talk forever about him.

[@Sherimichelle711]

Gretchen, I think it’s important for you to know you have subscribers of all ages. I just adore you and I’m 57! I love your vlogs and I find so much value and happiness in your vlogs! I just finished listening to The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo on Audible, and felt the same! Such a good book! Family & friendships in life, those moments and memories are what make life worth living. I lost my Dad in 2010 and my mom last year. It doesn’t get easier, you just try your best to remember them and be grateful for the memories and good times. Big hugs to you sweetie!! I think of you like a daughter and you inspire me so just know you matter in the work you are doing on You Tube. Thank you for sharing your beautiful life. ❤❤❤

[@bellanadeau]

Gretchen!!! Your videos bring so much comfort and joy to my day to day life. Honestly you’re the only content creator I follow religiously (i.e. keeping up with content on all platforms). You are just such a bright light, so relatable and honestly big sister is such a good way to put it !! Please don’t ever question your value in our lives. We love you !! Whenever I need a second to feel grounded I always watch your videos. You are giving more to us and the world than you think :)

[@gabriellelue]

As a chronic overachiever, I often find that when I feel like I’m not doing enough, it’s actually that I’m not doing enough of the right things. For example, I work from home and feel extremely blessed to have a flexible job. But I felt like I wasn’t doing enough or truly valuing my life - so this year I reached out to my local high school and volunteered as a volleyball coach for the fall season. It was a huge time commitment but was ultimately SO worth it because I was thinking about myself less and really got to contribute to the lives of girls in my local community. It was the best part of my year for sure and I’d highly recommend looking into a regular volunteering opportunity to add into your week

[@katywright3724]

Gretchen, I am so thankful for you and the way you’ve helped me in my grief. I lost my mom two years ago, and hearing you talk about your dad comforts me so much. Please don’t ever feel like you can’t talk about your dad. He was your best friend! Grief is the cost of love, and you loved him with your whole heart. I am keeping you in my prayers! I hope you and Max and your family have a very Merry Christmas!! You are such a light, don’t forget that!!

[@legallyblondiee]

I got married two years ago and I focused on eating healthy as best as I could and working out! I feel like when I look back at my wedding photos I just feel so proud to think about how happy I was during the day and not about what my body looked like. I think it helps if you make your main priority to enjoy the memories that you make throughout the process of planning and enjoying the wedding as best as you can! You never get moments like those back so how you look doesn't matter it's all about soaking in the time with your loved ones! I know it's easier said than done but your joy means so much more than a number on a scale ever will!

[@ClanceyHopper]

Making sure I get hugs throughout the day really helps me I lost my dad a year and a half ago and hugging anyone makes me feel better

[@bellexox112233]

I lost my dad in 2021 and just got married this past September. One thing I tried to remember that he would want the day to be happy even though a huge part was missing. Happiness and sadness can co exist. I didn’t do the chair during the cause I also thought it would make me sad and also sad for my mom. But we mentioned him during our ceremony and had a picture on my bouquet. We had a memory table and he was talked about so many times throughout the night. Also I’ve been doing the self compassion daily journal and it has been amazing- id recommend doing it before bed and doing a devotional before bed and pray ❤️helps immensely with my anxiety.

[@JennaSchwach]

My #1 mental health wellness tip (for girls who have similar mindset to you about needing to go go go & get everything done) is to use the “reminders” app on your phone to make a to-do list widget on your Home Screen. I literally put everything on it for everyday and it helps me stay focused so much. I’m telling you I get in depth like shower, take vitamins, walk on treadmill, lunch, reply to emails, check bank account. You can go as broad or detailed as you want but I have been doing this for over two years at this point and will never stop. It’s such a little breath of fresh air checking things off a list, even if you don’t finish it all!!

[@KaylaCorrente]

Gretchen I totally felt what you were saying about the absence of your dad on your wedding day. I lost my dad 10 years ago and just got married in March. I will say I was so nervous about how the day would go in the regards, just missing him.. but after experiencing it, I felt his presence soooo heavily that day. In every part of the day I really felt him there. I was back and forth on doing a chair in memory of him & instead of doing that I put a sign on the chair my mom was sitting in, so it was there with her! We had a memory table for him & we had a drink order in honor of him which his friends really loved!! We had a couple songs played in honor with him and it was so sweet.. Moments like these make the grief so much bigger, no matter how much time has past 🤍 Feel those feelings & know that he is gonna be there with you every step of the way!!

[@sierrawhitman8859]

I lost my dad in April of 2019 - a week after my 22nd birthday. I got married at 27 this year on September 7th and the absence of my dad on my wedding day was something that frequently crossed my mind and made my heart heavy during wedding planning. I made sure to honor him in a few different ways and reminded myself that he was there in spirit watching over and so proud! I had one of his rings stuck into my bouquet, a seat for him saved at a table with some memorabilia and had my brothers walk me down the aisle in his place! It’s hard to do without them but there’s so many ways to include him in spirit!

[@wendyhall495]

What I do every morning to make my day better is pray and do my daily devotions. It is amazing how much this changes your prospective and helps your heart and your mood. I have special need children and things can get crazy , I go into it with such a better mind set after time in prayer with God😀

[@monicatamm6871]

I lost my dad 10 years ago when I was 14 and every wedding is the hardest thing for me. My boyfriend and I started talking about engagement and let me tell you it is not easy to think about! Never be sorry for talking about your dad ❤️

[@veve33192]

Gretchen I have been watching you since 2016 I think?? You are my favorite creator EVER! ❤ Its been so awesome seeing you grow and evolve but always staying so real with us. Your authenticity shines through so bright! ❤

[@TSagi_0127]

Gretchen please always talk about your dad. I believe that our loved ones dont die when they die . They die when the last living person alive to remember them dies. So now his memory lives on in all of us ! Sending hugs ❤️

[@Cocozero7]

Gretchen, This video made me cry so hard 😢I lost my dad unexpectedly 3 months ago and my world has been shattered. Everyone grieves in their own way but I feel like I'm grieving everything wrong. How is life supposed to just carry on after my world has been turned upside down? I'm getting married next year too and we're in the same boat... Thank you for sharing about your Dad and your Wedding Plan Ideas. So many hugs to you, so many.

[@madisynwright]

I find that a lot of my anxiety roots from not having control of every little thing and outcome in my life. I find that the little ways I can take better care of myself (drinking water, eating whole foods, moving my body) helps me feel a little bit better. I deal with OCD and an insane phobia of vomiting that makes it so hard to function at times 🥺 hugs to you, you’re not alone in struggling with anxiety!! I hope you can find things that continue to help you feel better 🫶🏼

[@madisynwright]

ALSO I am relatively new here and absolutely love your personality and authenticity. I found you through Sydney!! While there are a bunch of shiny, new influencers - you can’t fake the authenticity 🤍🫶🏼

[@KelsiAyers]

you actually did change my life for the better (not in a crazy putting pressure on you way hahah)! I started spin & my channel because of you! and you also always remind me to be a little more positive which I totally need. I’m a little more like Lucy! I’m very much a realist and sometimes I desperately need that dose of positivity to bring me up!! but as a chronically anxious girl, going on a walk without listening to anything or being on my phone helps me. Also doing a guided meditation!! I get really breathless when I’m anxious and the meditation brings me back to my breath!! maybe 5 mins and the first one on yt that pops up, nothing specific!

[@BreannLongnecker]

I lost my dad almost 7 years ago and I always think about him! I started a boutique last year and every milestone I still try to call him.

[@Brookegraham1234]

I'M SO HAPPY YOU SHARED THIS. Girl I am feeling the exact same way. From the sleep issues and trying to figure out how to relax and what's going on to the imposter syndrome. I realized recently that we almost feel like if we're not working 70 hrs a week or copying everyone else, we're not doing something right or don't deserve success and happiness. I am so happy I found your channel 4 yrs ago during COVID. We're the same age, you have the best energy and personality, and your content is so special because you're YOU. I'm so proud of everything you've accomplished so far and I'm always cheering you on!! We need to be kinder to ourselves. The 20's are not for the weak. Lol Hope you're enjoying the holiday season and getting excited for your wedding!!

[@trekkingb]

I’ve been married for 17 yrs. The wedding is not just 1 day. It’s all the planning, parties before and honeymoon after. Enjoy it all. Also, i have 2 daughters and hope they grow up to be as smart, confident and beautiful as you. I know boy watch 5 you tubes. And you’re 1 of them. Thank you for being genuine and funny. ✌️❤️🙏

[@marishlarosa]

Why am I sobbing 🥺 my best friend lost her dad a few years ago, and I could tell how difficult it was for her. I tried to do everything I could to support her and honor her dad that day. I think your ideas for honoring your loved ones is so sweet❤ I’m also a 2025 bride and have been feeling the same emotions of wanting to look good in my dress and feel a lot of pressure to pick the right vendors and if it’s going to fit my style and how I want to look, ahhh like what if it doesn’t turn out how I’ve pictured! But like you said, we gotta chill and just feel our best. It’ll still be the best day ever ❤ I’m also always mourning the loss of my wedding 😂 I’ve been with my fiance for 10 years and we’ve thought about this time for SO long. Idk what I’m going to do when it’s over!!

[@mallorykirzinger6093]

I got married last year and I did end up losing some weight before the wedding because of the pressure. Funny thing is, nobody even noticed. The degree of change we notice in ourselves is far more minute than what others notice in us. Remind yourself that others will likely perceive you as looking the same (strictly body wise!) as you usually do unless you do something very drastic. The pressure is so real - I feel you.

[@itsteagstho4928]

I lost my dad in 2018, 2 months before our wedding day. It was and still is so incredibly difficult. I attached a photo of him to my bouquet, I had a photos of him at both the ceremony and reception and my justice of the peace said alittle something along with a moment of silence in honor of him. It was a very tough day, but we couldn't afford to postpone it at the time. Me and my husband were the first ones to leave our wedding. But looking back we did the best we could in that situation and I am proud of us and I no my dad was there that day. Everyone felt it. Take care of you. ❤ it helps me to reference him often "oh dad would love this show or this dish" things like that. It comforts me. I've learned different relaxing practices over the years, I was diagnosed with cancer in 2020 so my anxiety was through the roof. Whenever I'm having a panic attack no matter the time, I immediately run outside something about that hit of fresh air helps to snap me out of it. Find a saying that really resonates with you, and say it over the bad thoughts that creep in. And tea ❤ or really any hot drink just seems to comfort me.

[@kellyahmadi6298]

You are my comfort KZbinr. I’m considering grad school in Boston mostly bc of you. Your positivity genuinely impacts me!!!! And I always know that you’re being genuine. You are such a great example of a good friend🩷🩷🩷

[@madisonleroyy]

You should keep going because i truly LOVE your content and have for years. Truly feel like we’ve grown up together and i can’t imagine not seeing your content anymore.❤️

[@kelseyhill7055]

I lost my dad may of 2023, so unfortunately can relate to losing a parent. I am a 2025 bride and I have thought of several different ways to incorporate him! One of the tiers on our cake is one of my dads favorite (picked it for him), I am also having my bouquet incorporate a dusty blue while nobody else will have that color (it was his fav color). My mom is also my something blue because again, my dad’s favorite color was blue so she’s wearing his fav color for her dress. We are doing little things here and there that are unique but also special for us as a family!!! Do whatever makes you happy even if you think it’ll make you sad, it will probably end up bringing you so much peace on your big day and feel they are there with you!! ❤️ You’ve got this!!

[@carlisleemily]

My mom at 59 was just diagnosed with ADHD, so amazing and different once you have a diagnosis it’s crazy!!

[@capecodblonde]

I was diagnosed with ADHD in 2008 and the shoes on definitely helps so much! Also making a reasonable to do list at the beginning of each day and not taking off your shoes until it’s done also helps!

[@annicameade]

I have been watching you since I was in middle school!! I know it’s human to question your value and sense of self, but know that we all have never left! You inspire us more than you know. You’re overheating is what keeps us connected to you ❤

[@Hereismytwocents2011]

Just remember that Max loves you for the beautiful person you are. Weight/size should not be an issue. Take it from me, I am going through an eating disorder for the second time in my life. I'm in therapy because I dieted myself into a mental competition between my logic side, and the devious coach that tells me to keep going. It's exhausting. I wish I could be content with food and weight. Stay strong, and know that there is so much to look forward to on your special day, and you will be beautiful inside and out.

[@jessthegingy]

Awe Gretchen, I am so sad that you think people think you should “be over” losing a parent because I think talking about them keeps them alive. I lost my dad in 2020, I got married in 2023 and found it so hard to not feel the absence of his presence. It felt so nice to dedicate a dance to him and also all the father&daughter duos at my wedding as well as marking in the time to have a special dance with my mom. It is definitely hard to navigate those feelings on such a special day but having so many people there around you who knew that person makes it so much better. Xox

[@Danahh]

27:55 I totally get it. My dad didn’t pass but he isn’t around anymore. But I feel completely sad because I also think “who is going to walk me down the aisle? Who is going to do the father daughter dance?” And I just feel extremely sad every time I think about that just because its a norm in a wedding to have it. My grandfather doesn’t live in the US but I plan to have a small photo of him on my bouquet

[@KarlaIMarie]

I have been dealing with a lot of health issues over the last few years and any time that im really confused about what i should or should not be doing i try to talk to my doctor about it. there is so much misinformation on the internet. not to mention every persons body and needs are different so definately talk to your doctor about wether running or that coffea is ok. Being on a health journey while also grieving and dealing with such strong emotions can be very difficult and draining. I can relate. I lost both my mother in law and father in law in the span of less than a year in a half. they were the closest to good parents i had. i strongly beleive that losing them made so many health issues worse for me. but i have really worked hard on eating clean, light yoga and excercises to keep movement but gentle movement. and also breathing excercises, journaling to let go of things before sleep, and relaxing activities like reading or nice warm baths with epson salts. I really hope that you find a good balance of everything and continue to see improvements in your mental and physical health. merry christmas. WE GOT THIS!!!!

[@carolinedeehan]

Also I just watched your “we lost my dad” video for the first time last week and was sobbing 🥹😔 you’re so strong!

[@jaimebh30]

So glad you are doing well! Yes they need a class on how to grieve a loved one. My MIL passed away 4 years after I was married. It is sad because my husband didn't want to be a dad at the time and now he is one. She wanted him to be one and knew he would be great with his own kids. Sorry the loss of loved ones and reaching life milestones is tough. I hope you and your family have a great holiday season!

[@rickelspickles]

Thank you for sharing!!! I’ve been following you since the beginning and we are the same age and I love that you’re taking the steps to take care of YOU! It’s so hard to get rid of the guilt to sit still and rest and take care of you. You’ve had such a crazy busy life (from what we see online) and it’s SO amazing that you’re taking the steps to take care of Gretchen!!!!!❤

[@faithrihn78]

Girl I feel your wedding pain so deeply!! My wedding is in the spring and I also lost my dad who was my absolute best friend in the whole world!! I couldn’t stomach an empty chair either so we’re doing a toast and our signature drink dedicated to him! Oh and I’m walking down the aisle to an instrumental of his and i’s song! It’s so painful but I know he has the best seat in the house and is going to be with me ALL day!!

[@hannahnorskog]

Please never feel bad for talking about your dad🥺 thanks for being vulnerable with us!

[@Jenny-fs8sx]

Girl you look so good no way you’re perfect the way you are!

[@keaganschmidt]

You asked what helps us- prayer and my faith helps me so much! Highly recommend just checking out a church I think it would help you feel so at peace and happy❤

[@mariafoster1246]

this is so incredibly relatable and real and honest and it is so validating !! You are AMAZING !!

[@flohs51]

I think no matter how much time passes from losing our loved ones, it will always feel slightly raw and sensitive. I lost my dad on Christmas last year, and this Christmas is the first year without him and a year since him passing. He was able to walk my sister down the aisle at the beginning of his cancer diagnosis, but I know when the day comes for me, he won’t be able to be there to walk me down the aisle. I think whatever you decide for your wedding is going to be exactly what you need, and what truly feels right for you and only you. You’re such an intuitive person and sending you all the love and hugs❤️

[@emilyelizabeth1699]

I love following you because you’re so genuine and honest..I don’t think you could over share! ❤

[@emilyn9449]

❤️❤️❤️❤️ we all question what we're doing and I agree we don't know sometimes it's ok❤️ girl also I cry thinking about what really matters in life too, also talking through things out loud helps me too, it's verbally processing

[@margoballi2278]

I lost my dad 7 years before getting married. My dad actually passed right around the time I met my husband but they never got to meet each other. And my grandmother passed 3 years after that, who was basically like my mother. And then my husbands dad passed when he was 13. We did a memorial table with lanterns in the entrance of the chapel and then we chose people to walk down the aisle before our bridal party with the lanterns and placed them on designated seats in the front.

[@caleighhorninger3012]

Oh Gretchen!!😢 It’s been almost 2 years since I lost my dad, I’m 25 years old and I refuse to have a wedding because I just cannot fathom the idea of having a wedding that he’s not physically at. Everyone says he will be there in spirit watching over but I know the feeling that’s just not enough!! I want him there to walk me down the aisle!! Oh baby I’m here and I feel you

[@DriaStella]

Had anxiety my whole life sometimes for no reason at all (also had adrenal fatigue) biggest game changer for me is doing gratitude, every time I got anxious I would make myself really feel gratitude for at least 5 things, some days I did gratitude all day bc I was so anxious). I rarely get anxious anymore but I also start and end my day with gratitude now too! I use red light off and on too. Rhonda Byrne books too! 🤗 ❤️

[@dt4ikjgtkgvhe4qkjbvh]

You’re so strong and your feelings are valid ❤❤❤❤ Do what’s best for you !!!!

[@oliviaperales8210]

It’s is OKAY to need validation in your career! It’ll never feel fulfilling if you don’t have validation that you’re doing a great job and making a difference. This can be hard when you’re posting to an audience and then you don’t see the impact it’s actually making until you meet us! Don’t be so hard on yourself you’re doing great♥️

[@megangilman2464]

Related to working out / stress and all of that, everyone is sooo different so I wouldn’t listen to every single thing people are commenting or suggesting. I personally love distance running and hate Pilates lol but I was a swimmer growing up so my body is used to the high intensity cardio, on the other hand some people feel better with low impact workouts. So do what makes you feel the best, there isn’t one right answer and everyone’s body reacts differently!!

[@Shannon-tr8gj]

100 percent prayer is what has helped me … the Lord can give you a peace that pass all understanding no matter what your facing … God loves you … ❤

[@SarahShuford]

Love you forever, Gretchen! Really appreciate your vulnerability always!!!

[@joannaandrews4780]

Petting my cat, thank you list and praying authentically to God giving it all to Him

[@joannaq659]

What are you using to detox mercury? I'm high in lead, aluminum, chromium etc :(

[@mobees19]

All of your feelings are valid, G.

[@zacharymelo1004]

ALWAYS care about you and your content! from 2019 vlogmas all the way until now. changed my life for the better and started my channel bc of you. love you sm!!!

[@emilymckay1937]

I got married this year 🩵 I was very stressed but all the detail planning was so worth it because everything was perfect. (Thanks to my mom & our wedding planner) I don’t miss being a bride, planning, or “looking forward” to it. Some people do feel that way! But I was so worried about everything going ok, that now I can live in the memory of the best day ever and reading my vows and being with my family 🥹 I was worried about my body and feeling good as well. I work out and eat pretty well normally but I did more low intensity workouts the week of, stayed hydrated, and prioritized sleep (& eye patches for 1 week prior!!!), cut added sugar, and it all came together. Your dress is YOUR DRESS and you chose it for a reason/feeling, plus alterations make it even more perfect for you. You have 1 day in it! Be proud of everything you have done to take care of your body over the years to get to the point you are at and try to remember that as it gets closer. Do what you have always done! 🤍🤍

[@katherinedennison445]

What helps me the most in my day to day life???? Definitely for me it’s reading the Bible and being in Gods word and talking to him throughout my day 🙏 😇 I pray that you will be able to come into a closer relationship with Jesus. He Loves You ❤

[@Erin_29]

This! Amen. True joy comes from the Lord. Happiness is a fleeting emotion.

[@nicolab9938]

Yes same here! My roommate and I pray together every single day and it’s one of the best parts of my day. God has answered so many prayers for us within the last year living in London. I think I’ve never had an identity issue because my identity is found in Christ so I don’t have to worry because it is in him. I’m still discovering my purpose, especially since I moved to a new country this year. We should pray to god for what our purpose is and keep reading scripture.

[@katherinedennison445]

@@Erin_29 Amen 🙏 😇

[@katherinedennison445]

@@nicolab9938 I knew about Jesus my whole life but didn’t come into a closer relationship with him until after my dad died. I started going to church with my mom because I didn’t want her to go alone and Jesus met me there. Losing my dad was one of the hardest things that has ever happened to me, but God gave me a gift in the sadness and that was a relationship with him. I am so happy that you and your roommate have found him too. Consider yourself lucky to know him at such a young age. God bless 🙏😇

[@SarahSchneider2]

As someone who has lost parents and grandparents it’s hard enough emotionally to even attend weddings (I still love attending weddings) however if I start thinking about stuff I get emotional.

[@Jenn-Barnes]

The best advice about body image leading up to my wedding was - the groom would marry you in your pajamas with dirty hair tomorrow, anything above that is just bonus! Everyone that attends your wedding loves you guys for your heart- not your body!

[@brianna.ditsworth]

You don’t have to cut running out completely but you should look into syncing your workouts with your cycle so depending on where you’re at like ovulation normally running is a safe exercise! Cycle syncing food and life really helped me learn to balance my cortisol and overall hormones! ❤️

[@katherinedennison445]

We did a table at my son’s wedding dedicated to the loved ones who couldn’t be there (my dad and my daughter in laws aunt). I also gave my daughter in law a ribbon with their two photos to attach to her bouquet and she walked down the aisle with it ❤

[@nicolab9938]

Most churches have the grieving course. Usually it’s a decent number that turn up because so many of us experience death of a loved one

[@irelandWilson-g3z]

I lost my mom in middle school and I got married two years ago. I reserved a seat in the front row with a bouquet of flowers and a sign that said for mom. I had a picture of her on my bouquet and a piece of her wedding dress was wrapped around my bouquet. We had special songs we added to the cocktail hour list for her like my parents wedding song and songs she loved.

[@carinacooke4215]

Question of the day answer: Jesus and reading a little devotional or choosing one psalm that my family all read when one of our family members was sick to calm down and it helps me feel more grounded and peaceful. I love Jeanine amapola and Sadie Robertson they have yt and podcasts that are so inspiring!! Idk if you are religious but they are so inspiring in life too some of my fav influencers along with you! 🙈💗💕🫶

[@theonlymrsnickj]

Yesss you are part of the reason I moved to boston / went to BU and I absolutely love it!

[@theonlymrsnickj]

I also was just diagnosed with ADHD at 27 lolllll. And have anxiety/depression. My best daily wellness thing is doing the Wordle first thing in the morning and sending it to my mom & best friend

[@JaimeGViens]

GG, I have been watching you for many many years. BU days. I lost my dad in 2020 due to cancer, I met my now husband in 2020, my dad never got to meet him. We got married 2023 and leading up to it I didn’t even want a wedding. I didn’t want something fun without my dad. I was so upset, and mad at the world. But I looked at in a brighter way. My dad was there in spirit and has never left. I did a father daughter dance with my FIL who I love greatly. I have many days where I smell something and it reminds me of my dad, I see something and I want to get my phone to call or text him. And realizing we can’t hurts. It hurts so bad. We lost our dads at a young age. But I am still thankful I had 20 beautiful years with my dad. Some don’t even get 5. Talk to your dad. He will hear you. Don’t feel bad that you are grieving. Grief has NO end date. I will be on my death bed when I’m old and still grieving my dad. He was my best friend. I hope this reaches you and helps a tad! You have helped many of us 🤍

[@brittanybae9411]

Wellness tips: First thing in the morning (well after the pets have been tended to 😆), I do something to make me feel accomplished and productive. I aspire to do a 15 minute treadmill hike but more consistently I make myself a matcha collagen latte and snuggle the pets while drinking. Then I have a coffee a few hours later And frequent baths! Like 45-90 minute baths at least 3 times a week!

[@carmelingram]

Gretchen thanks for being so open and sharing all of this. It’s apparent how resilient of a person you are. ❤ I relate so so much to your functional medicine chat. My piece of advice to you is to work under the mindset of “too much of anything is a bad thing”. Life is all about balance, and with time you will find what that balance looks like to you. You will figure it all out with time! 🫶🏻

[@ninedollarlatte]

Thank you for being honest and open!

[@rickelspickles]

13:01 I have a degree in PR, working in marketing for 3 years but currently working for my dad as a TAX assistant and studying to get my real estate license!! I’m 28 and we have time! It’s okay to figure things out!

[@aubreevanhouten9878]

Are you able to share how you found your holistic physician ? Or medical path

[@Gabby88Girl]

I just want to say you have a great work ethic and deserve to take time off to relax and have a break without filming! What calms me down when stressed is talking to my dog in my head and thinking about holding her, calms me and keeps me from spiraling. Use a weighted blanket on your chest and acupuncture matt helps! Also your clothing size is the least interesting thing about you if that helps!

[@nicolab9938]

I would highly recommend reading the bible to help calm yourself down and also prayer or listening to worship music (elevation worship, maverick city or hillsong)

[@claudiavasquez1368]

Try block you day to day, having a todo list is helpful but if you do a schedule of your day you will realize you have more time than what you think, dedicated time to do things will make you feel lime you accomplish a lot more and also you can prioritize whats more important

[@maggietremann7723]

I haven’t read that book you talked about 7 husbands. But from what you described it sounds like Taylor swifts song “the lucky one!”

[@cassiefisher4592]

OMG IN LOVE

[@SpaGurl85]

Please always talk about your Dad❤

[@angelicavillalta5840]

Words of Wisdom as a new wifey- be kind to yourself, you don't have to get it all right all the time. Also women are like spaghetti & men like waffles ... women can juggle lots of things/thoughts and items at once (meatballs and sauce mixed lol) and men are more like one thing at a time (waffle squares)... it was good advice I got

[@actingluver278]

Gretchen! I have struggled with ADHD since 2015 and I recently ordered a book called "How to ADHD" by Jessica McCabe and it's very insightful so far with lots of tips and tricks outside of medicine. She also has a KZbin channel which is where I originally found the author's content :)

[@xindigochildx]

Sending all my love and support 🌸

[@nicolei5196]

Honestly medical marijuana is the only thing that allows me to fully relax and be calm at the end of a hard day lol

[@rickelspickles]

11:36 every month 😂😂

[@nicolab9938]

Please listen to your naturopath or functional doctor in regards to foods you can and cannot eat right now, otherwise you are wasting your money and won’t get much better. I cannot stress how it has changed my life and i feel a lot better. Girl I had no garlic, onion, beef, dairy, gluten, sugar, peppers or alcohol for 3 years, you will be fine with no salmon for a few months

[@erinfrase7243]

A hot shower saves me everyday

[@averygaming8707]

❤❤❤❤

[@spacecatboy2962]

dont forget to drink your ovaltine

[@marissaludy5733]

@GretchenGeraghty7 I lost my dad almost 10 years ago and I just got married this summer. It was so hard to imagine those special moments without him but know he will be there in spirit and you will feel him ❤ I did have a picture of him on my bouquet which was really special, I had a memorial table, also in lieu of a father daughter dance I picked “brown eyed girl” since my dad used to sing it to me and it’s a more upbeat song and I took turns dancing with all my uncles and it was really special

[@jamie_morink13]

My dad died in 2021 and I got married in 2023. It was a very hard day! I also lost my best friend in 2020 so it ruined the whole day for me. I almost felt like I was just ‘getting it over with’ I wish I had them here for it. I know it would’ve been so much better

[@mallorykirzinger6093]

I got married last year and I did end up losing some weight before the wedding because of the pressure. Funny thing is, nobody even noticed. The degree of change we notice in ourselves is far more minute than what others notice in us. Remind yourself that others will likely perceive you as looking the same (strictly body wise!) as you usually do unless you do something very drastic, which of course isn’t healthy to do. The pressure is so real - I feel you.