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[@amandaturner5253]

Thanks for being real and vulnerable! I could tell that it wasn't the most comfortable, and you totally could've cut it out before posting....but i believe that you throwing it out there can help someone out there not feel alone...and that makes a difference...YOU ARE MAKING A DIFFERENCE! That's part of the reason i love your channel so much!

[@jendecarlo801]

Listening to your honesty about your childhood has definitely effected my relationships with my students who are living in similar circumstances. It gives me a clearer picture of what they need from me now to help them become the adults they deserve to be. You have no idea how many futures you are helping me make even just a little bit better.

[@sweetpeakate8504]

That took a ton of courage and vulnerability. 💚 You made it, and you are doing really well. Is it weird to say that I am proud of you? I hope not. Thank you for sharing your story.

[@fousies]

I think that’s a good thing. We can be proud of each other!

[@Tetrisofthesea]

Very raw and real talk. The grieving process is different for everyone. Sending all the best vibes to you Jen! ❤️

[@nancyosgood777]

I'm so glad you have a therapist to help you out with this. My husbands childhood was jacked up as well.Sometimes its hard for me to relate because mine was so good, mostly I just get so mad about the things he went through and the stuff he had to deal with. I'm so glad you have Adam and a good relationship with your sister. I really hope you are able to proud of yourself for all you have accomplished and for the wonderful mother you are.

[@marciahorton7129]

Jen, I know that took a lot for you to share. I think that you have done well and you and Adam are doing a wonderful job raising your children. Keep your head up, you are doing great.

[@suecastillo4056]

Yes… Blessings Jen… been there done that and I get it… sending love and healing peace to you♥️☮️‼️

[@jowhatdoyouknow8383]

I would never have guessed what you have been through because you are so put together. Good for you Jennifer.

[@dianecaruso1758]

Thank you for sharing your story with us. I could tell parts were very uncomfortable but you share with us so we know we’re not alone. I’m so proud of the accomplishments you’ve made and have created such a loving family environment. You’re such an inspiration to us! Thanks💕

[@MrsAlmaTrumble]

Thank you for continuing to share your story. I'm finally opening up about mine. I was sexually, physically, and mentally abused by my father and most people don't understand why I don't want to have anything to do with him. I haven't talked to him since 2013.

[@Jen-Chapin]

I’m so sorry you went through that 💔

[@melissa99435]

Hugs, it took a lot to go through all that you were raised with & you are healing & dealing with the trauma. You are brave for sharing & I give you a big hug for that. My parents divorced when I was 9, and money was always an issue. I agree we block out some bad things & unfortunately a bit of good also gets blocked out. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️🙏🙏🙏

[@kbosch7014]

Love so much about you, Jen! Thank you for EVERYTHING you share with us.❤

[@pennyyager6123]

Jen, you're the MVP! I admire you greatly for what you've accomplished in your life. Thank you for sharing with us. I know that wasn't easy. Hugs.

[@PandaBear62573]

Jen I feel like we are part of your therapy and that is fine. Considering everything you went through in your childhood and young adult years you are doing very well. And yes there is nothing wrong with going to therapy. I'm pushing 50 and pushed off going to therapy for decades from trauma in my teens, like losing both parents by 19. Then there's my sister who I think has mental health problems. She's just I don't know. She makes up stuff, calls me screaming at me, spam texts me nasty things, and more. I currently am not speaking with her. I was seeing a therapist since last summer and I wasn't super happy with her but it had taken a full on mental collapse to get an appointment with any therapist, despite my husband trying for months. She really wasn't helping me work through anything. Then at our last appointment she said she wanted to discharge me in 3 months and asked what I wanted to talk about, to which I said my sister. She said that's not related to my anxiety so we can't discuss it. I told my psychiatrist this and she was shocked. Then one day on my way home stop at a light I saw a sign in a window for a counseling place and their website was in the window. I looked the place up, I was on a bus, and got an appointment with them about a week later. It was like the stars aligned. I've only had 2 appointments so far but I feel so much better.

[@fuzzball4258]

Thanks Jen. The Partridge Family is before MY time! Well la di da! I’m a grandma. A fairly young grandma. Compared to my granddaughters friends grandmas. Coming from someone who raised her daughter alone don’t get inside your head to much. My daughters father wasn’t in her life. I was earning below poverty level. I can only speak for myself. I did my best. I ate ronzoni for 30 days to make sure my daughter ate. Maybe she remembers things differently. But I’m sure I can speak for your mom. She did the best she could with what she had to give. Those papers are just that. Papers. Legal papers. Papers to show she did things right legally. But you don’t know what she really had to do. My dad passed away on my bedroom floor of a massive heart attack. I was 9. I had a sister 5 years older. My mom worked from then on to support us. My sister left at 18. My mom passed away at 92 from a abdominal aortic aneurism. I watched her flatline 2010. My mother was with me my whole life. Sure it was hard. My nursing career was done with etc. I took care of her. Don’t think to much about it. Those paper done show everything. Just know how are parents raised up is why we are such good adults and parents Before I forget, be careful opening those letter and such, even the Bible. The pages could break and/or crumble. I hope my words helped. 💚👍🥰🙏✌️

[@lydiakrauss3584]

I have had to watch this in two sittings with having to take Lucas to school, but girl I feel you and I am so incredibly proud of you. You are an amazing woman and mom. You rock girl and just keep it up and stay smiling, even through the hard times and tears!( Well that's how I cope hahaha) xxxx

[@lauracunningham1149]

Thanks for sharing part of your history. I love to see strong women who use adversity to show them what they DON'T want in their future. Going through all you did has made you who you are today. Your family is blessed to have you!

[@loreep219]

Jen~ It is so very hard when a parent passes, and then the hurt continues and intensifies when you start looking over all the belongings. You definitely broke the cycle of poverty and obviously have so much to be proud of. Sorry you have to relive the past trauma.

[@thomassmith6344]

Hello Loree

[@tara-leawhyte8628]

My favourite thing about you is how real and honest you are. I really appreciate you sharing your story.

[@tameybartlett5132]

Thank you for talking about it. When you read the court documents, you made me realize that things that happened to me with my step father was indeed wrong. I can relate and I am proud of how you worked to make your life better. I feel I did with my life and always looked back and never wanted to treat anyone like I was treated. You are a strong woman and a wonderful mother.

[@anaelizabethramirez375]

Jen…thank you for sharing….very therapeutic video. I also grew up poor and my parents divorced as well. You are so real and genuine, thank you for being you!

[@chiknlittle]

I love the family heirloom section. I am 29 (and recognize everything you had!) and I write letters to my mom. We started years ago and have just kept it up. I keep every letter from her. yes, she has a phone. We talk on the phone, and FaceTime. But there’s something about the letters, it’s SO special :)

[@laurelitavera]

Big hugs. Thank you for being vulnerable. I appreciate your take on things and as a fellow child of divorce, I hear you and I see you. You are an awesome mom, wife daughter and granddaughter.

[@kenagiles1981]

I remember my mom was moving maybe 15 years ago and I found an old tax return from 1997/1998 and I wondered how in the world did we make it....I knew back then (I was 17/18) that we didn't have a lot of money, but as an adult you can really see what that means. I also remember having an initial session with my old therapist and telling her some things about my childhood and she told me that it sounded like I had a traumatic childhood....that took me for surprise because I never thought of it as "traumatic". It was just childhood. But there are things that I have intentionally done/not done for my children because I know I didn't like it when I was a kid. There's a bittersweet feeling to know that you aren't the only one that went through things as a kid. But, Jen, you are an inspiration and I am so glad that I found your channel!

[@juliannam9521]

Thanks for sharing and for being you. You are so admired and respected. I was severely bullied in my home my entire childhood. Our lives and memories are our own, and no one can tell us how we should feel or what we should remember or how we should process our memories. You are strong and healthy and you are trying to navigate the present and future while trying to understand your past. You are thriving and you have created such a beautiful and comforting life for your family and all who are around you. xoxo❤️🧸🌹🐕

[@watchingfromcali]

Wow…such a life you’ve endured! Does not matter as you are a VERY SUCCESSFUL DEDICATED PROFESSIONAL! And such an inspiration to many of us, and an amazing mother to your children. Enjoy watching the great care you take of your fury babies! Let it all go as you have said “your growing up life does not define you’. We all love YOU!!!

[@ChriztineLynn]

Thank you for posting this and being real. I love your honesty. I’m sure it will help many people. Hugs my friend.

[@thomassmith6344]

Hello chriztine

[@LejlaCikotic]

Thank you for sharing that part of your life with us Jen. You're a strong, beautiful, and courageous woman. ❣️❣️❣️ I hope you and your family have a wonderful weekend! ✨

[@jackiemaccaskill2111]

Just finishing up this video... lost my mom in October, dad passed 12 years ago. I’m now starting going through my mommas stuff. Just was showing my teen my parents wedding albums. I’m an only child - both my parents worked their hardest always to create the best world growing up for me. It counts. Great work Jennifer. You have a beautiful weekend. Thank you for sharing. Xo 🌷

[@user-qf7qr1is6b]

Oh, sweetie!! Children are never responsible for their parents’ mistakes. Your two kids are so lucky to have you.

[@sarahjaneshome919]

Oh Jen. You are such a wonderful and strong human being. Hearing what you went through sent chills through me…. I totally want to hug you. Such a strong woman. ❤️ Hugs

[@cyndier7816]

You are such a strong and courageous woman. I have been through a lot as a child also. Very emotional and physical abuse. I sometimes feel guilty for turning out strong, financially stable and others didn’t come out as well. Keep doing what makes you feel happy. You are a survivor and deserve every single good thing that happens in your life.

[@carlajordan9602]

I'm so glad you see a therapist. A therapist has been helpful for me, too. I'm old to remember watching the Partridge Family 😅. I'm proud of you.

[@ambermcclellan6920]

You are an inspiration and I 100% understand from a personal POV as well. My dysfunctional divorced parents recently started “hanging out” after a nasty divorce 23 years ago. I have contemplated going to therapy to help me ensure I keep my growing family healthy and not let my emotions and PTSD regress back to when I was 14. I too, have talked myself out of therapy and hearing you admit those emotions helps me decision. 😊

[@sharimissmanmiller1185]

You’re amazing! Be so proud of the amazing life you built. 🥰

[@scottlindsey4189]

You are an incredibly strong person who has been through so much. Be proud. You’ve overcome. I’ve been through stuff too. I’m in my 50’s and starting to get over it.

[@rachel.schmidt]

I appreciate you being so open with your audience. It’s very inspiring 💕 your kids are extremely lucky to have you as their mom.

[@alyssawilliams4715]

I'm 52 and still have plenty to work through. I just started therapy a couple of months ago so I'm with you. And my hubby also came from a "normal" situation. It's a lot. Keep goin' mama, as will I.

[@kathymartin7096]

Pick you up a glass cake plate cover at your local thrift store....they always have some.

[@heatherw6665]

Jen, you are a beautiful, respectful, kind person, and no matter what our childhood experience, you are a true success story. I wish you were my neighbour so I could be your friend..You have a wonderful family, and a successful career, the past does not define us. Bravo to you girl!💗

[@suecastillo4056]

Can your kennel groom “Murph” before you pick him up? Just wondered cuz I’m a groomer and pet sit for some clients and they usually want their pet bathed and groomed when they get home♥️🐾🐾♥️🥰☮️‼️🌟🕉hope you had fun!!!

[@danapride]

View Master! I think that’s what it’s called! I grew up poor, too. We lived in a one bedroom apartment, and I slept on the floor. I’m lucky, though because my parents worked so hard. My dad worked full time, and went to college full time trying to better our situation. My mom worked full time, and was always making sure I had what I needed, for the most part, to feel like I wasn’t doing without. I was saying with a young colleague of mine that when you grow up poor, you cut everything with water. All of our condiments, shampoos, and many other things were cut with water to make them last. Thank for sharing, Jen. You brought back many memories, and I might need therapy, too. Even at 57! ~Dana

[@MereofallTrades]

You are not alone is the childhood trauma and grief brings up so much that has been repressed. Hugs!

[@kbee9860]

Sending you love and hugs. Thank you so always being so open, honest and real with us and letting us know that we are not alone when dealing with a similar history.

[@briannharris3722]

Sometimes trauma feels good to talk about and it’s amazing that you can open up like that to complete strangers on a very large viewing. I hope you feel love and support not just from here but in your life. You have roses above the lows and made your life what you wanted it to be. I wish you the best of luck working through therapy with your past. Your strong You are Beautiful and You are a child of God and can get through anything. Sending prayers and good vibes your way! ❤️

[@loriv828]

It is sad when our parents fail us. I can relate to you in this regard, and I’m sorry. I remember another video where so much of your story resonated. I’m glad you’re working through it in therapy. That’s how we win.

[@thomassmith6344]

Hello Lori

[@raeliahoffman022]

You are such a strong woman! You're right - we tend to think we are allow in certain situations, and you have shown that we are not alone. I am strained from my family, and I get the comments that you do that we should mend the relationship because they are my parents. As you stated though, no one knows the whole story and the toxic behavior that I don't need in my life. Thank you for sharing Jen - you're an inspiration!❤❤❤

[@melissanamenwirth1610]

Thank you for being so raw about this! I was so fortunate I’ve never gone through anything like this but some children aren’t that lucky. It’s so great you are giving your children the life they deserve and that you should have gotten when you were a child. You are breaking the cycle!

[@Mummakat]

OH Jen 😔 that was so brave of you to share all that information, it definatly helps me understand you more. I get what you mean, im 30 in a couple years but my parents divorce still effects me, it for sure had a huge impact on the direction of my life too. You should be so proud of the woman and mother you have become though 💗💗💗 and yes i am the real MVP 🤣

[@tarigeorge6122]

I agree I always loved the idea of working four ten hour days. I did it one summer and loved it. Thank you so much for sharing your heart and experiences. You helped me realize some things about myself as well. You are a strong and caring person. Keep going and growing! 💕💕

[@sofiasundkvist]

Thank you for sharing and showing vulnerability. I see so much of myself in you and you truly inspire me! Thank you!

[@jodyrightnow]

Murphy!!!!! I had a viewmaster! And I feel you on the family childhood stuff. You are def NOT alone. ❤️

[@QueenNanaEva]

You sure did bring back some beautiful memories of great times we had. If the writing is 1953 then the Bible is older. My Daddy just turned 100 and was born 1922! Can you imagine the stamp was two cents! You should wear gloves to preserve the letters. Look on the Container Store for special paper to wrap the letters and a special box to hold the Bible.

[@emmer_d]

Thank you for sharing so many person things. My parents got divorced when I was 6 and to this day it has messed with my mind. It was always a loving home and nothing abusive, but it still messes with you.

[@lt8742]

Jen, thank you for sharing with us. It’s def hard to open up about childhood trauma and reflecting on how we really hold onto that pain throughout adulthood.. I think that you are a great example of actually changing your life’s circumstances. You didn’t take that Trauma and let it consume you. You share parts of your life with us and honestly watching your videos is a form of therapy for me without me even knowing it. Watching your content on organizing, cooking home cooked meals, still tackling mother/wife/house/work duties is so motivating. You are a superwoman! Again, thank you for sharing your greatness while also being vulnerable. You are appreciated! 💜💜💜

[@daniellelevitt7547]

Jen - you friggen rock, your strength is an inspiration! Thank you for sharing your story with us! You are so right, you just never know what someone's situation is or what their life is/was like. Practice Kindness Always!! :)

[@jerrispores]

Loved that you shared to connect with us! My school kids are starting a sales project and KC is their destination. If they come up with some exciting activities or restaurants, I'll share with you. I'm in the KC area (Platte City). ❤️

[@thomassmith6344]

Hello jerri

[@Theunpopularmom]

im so sorry to hear about your Mom! I had no idea, my prayers and deepest condolences go out to you and your family!

[@dinabertrand9113]

Thank you for sharing this. It's good to see it's possible to turn things around. I'm glad you are in therapy, it is so important to process these emotions. Good for you 💞

[@nicolettecash794]

Amen to the 3 day weekend. I am an educator. I would love the 4 day teaching schedule that some schools have.

[@MegMeyerCom]

Jen - thank you for sharing. I went through VERY similar stuff - essentially needing to be my own adult and financially support myself at a very young age. Speaking openly about dealing with old trauma and therapy is a great way to destigmatize it for yourself and others. We all have dentists and doctors for the rest of our bodies - why not our brains, too? Think of the 20 year old, who just went through this, seeing your video and maybe getting help to deal with that trauma at an early age. Or the 60 year old who never thought her trauma was bad "enough" for therapy who might reconsider. Sharing all you do makes your channel more than just a "cooking channel to sell pots & pans" - it's an important facet in the landscape of motherhood. I was considered a "hard to handle" teen, too. I think those of us who have to mother ourselves, for whatever reason, rebel as a form of owning our own narative. If we're working, going to school, paying our own bills, why on earth would we still want to be treated like children, at that point? I also think working through that past trauma and deciding to not pass that trauma forward makes us better parents. Be proud of how far you've come and that you're still working on it. You are an important part of the youtube landscape! Also, I'm curious - where was your (great?)grandmother when they were writing letters to each other? I'm very currious.

[@thomassmith6344]

Hello Meg

[@karenh5423]

Aw Jen - sending virtual hugs, wishing I could do it in person - if only I wasn't a stranger and thousands of miles away, lol xoxoxo

[@tammytomato1]

I admire the courage you gave yourself to address obvious trauma from your past. I wish to have been beside you holding your hand still, and provide the comfort you deserve. I am grateful you have your 3 ❤️ with you to travel your next path, even if they cannot truly feel your damaged self. I will smudge for you in my prayers

[@DianeR1956]

Thank you for sharing your life And how strong you are. You are amazing. Xx

[@jackiemaccaskill2111]

Yay!! A prep video on a Friday... absolutely motivational. Thank you Xo

[@allthemays4237]

Thank you for sharing and being so vulnerable. I agree with the way you feel about overworking because of the fear of not having money. I have been on my own for a long time and have always provided for myself. I understand why you have tried hard to keep a safe environment for your kids so they done have to struggle. Ive done the same. Just because you feel blessed doesn't mean you cant express your unfortunate and difficult situations. Listening to you always makes me feel like it wasn't just me. Thank you thank you thank you. I came from Cuba in 1970 and didnt know the language or understand the USA way of living and only made being a kid much harder. I cant thank you enough for sharing. Sending virtual hugs always.

[@patriciabarnhart1886]

The struggle is behind you, but forever a part of you if that makes sense. My grandson’s favorite story is his grandma roughing Sears Roebuck catalogue pages up for toilet paper as a kid. I have grandchildren 23 years apart in age, and he’s only 13. My husband and my son-in-law are both adopted, as well as myself on my paternal side. What a conglomeration of stories we have to tell - thank you for sharing🥰

[@eljay1980]

Thank you for sharing about such important subjects, although I can see how much it upset you and send hugs. I think we often push out the memories and feelings of our past when they don't meet our current life as a way to cope but when something like grief or family paperwork comes about it brings everything back to the surface in such a difficult way. My partner and I had very different childhoods... looking back I can see that my Mum, Dad and I were poor, they worked terribly long hours and often multiple jobs to make ends meet, but with the support of my grandparents I never really saw it when I was little, as a kid I was lucky in that they would do everything they could so I wouldn't miss out on things (I now have no doubt that this caused family debt) or realise how bad our financial situation was, but looking back on it all I can see how much they struggled. But we were happy, yes there were disagreements like in all families but I don't really have any memories of toxic behaviour and I feel so lucky that my home was complete. My partner however, had the very opposite... his parents remained together until he was in his 20's although the household was incredibly toxic. His father sounds very much like your first step father, controlling in every way from financially to what they could look at, verbally and emotionally cruel, very physically abusive, manipulative, had the mindset that children should be seen and not heard, toys were to be looked at, etc - an all around horrific situation but thankfully his brother moved away for university and then my partner and his Mum made a decision one day to pack as much as they could and leave in that day while 'he' was out and moved in with his brother. After a lot of manipulation and nastiness, his father ended his own life - I suspect as he had nothing left to control, etc. I can fully understand your feelings of Adam not understanding your younger years as his were so different as I often feel this way with my partner, as much as I can try to understand his childhood and teenage years, sympathise and be there when he wants to talk, I doubt I will ever fully understand as I have never been through that myself. Sometimes I feel guilty that I had such a different and stable life compared to them, but I try to realise that I was never in a position to change that and the only person who could have change him and his brothers childhood was his Mum but she was too far into the control and toxicity to see a way out at the time. All we can do now is try our best to support each other and love each other, but some days it just doesn't feel like enough. It's hard. I don't know if you have considered taking those documents with you when you next see your therapist so you can go through them together, discuss your feelings on each bit by bit and process it all? I hope that you manage to get through this discovery of paperwork without too much trauma and upset but I also know that it will drive you to be the wonderful Mum, Wife and friend that you are as you will not want history to repeat. Sending love and hugs, stay strong xoxo

[@barbiedoll6530]

WOW Jen.....you are such a strong person! That was horrible what you went through and still going through. I'm glad you are seeing a therapist. That is a heavy load to carry. You are definately not alone. I have a toxic older sister don't care if I ever see her again. My therapist told me wisely "just because they have a label, "mother", "sister" "brother" doesn't mean you have to like/love or have a relationship....and she was right!! Frame those love letters....so beautiful!!!! Thank you for sharing....you are an incredible person!!!

[@sjhirst3]

What I got from this video is that I think we're about the same age. Lol. I really relate to several things you said. I appreciate you talking to us about it in an open way that isn't cringey. Not that you're ever cringey, but it just seems like so much "real talk" from others is either cringey or sugar coats things. I'm sure you know you're a strong person but I just wanted to say I think you're strong and amazing. My husband and I married very young and had 3 of our 4 kids very young. I wish I would have gone straight through college but things threw me off and I was busy with kids, 2 of our 4 are on the spectrum. We struggled financially for years. I did finally graduate with a BA in 2020 when I was 37. I'm rambling. Sorry. Great video. You're one of my favorite KZbinrs.❤️

[@thgemini69]

Thanks for being so open. Seems quite a few of us have had similar childhoods. You are quite a role model Jen. You've gone above and beyond your circumstances. You have alot to be proud of. Thanks for being so real. You seem to be a great Mom/Wife. 💜

[@treenaakers9429]

I greatly enjoyed your openness and willingness to share things that I know are painful. You seem to have weathered your personal storm well and it probably made you a stronger person. Thanks for sharing, dear friend!

[@roseduke8271]

Jen, thank you for sharing. I could tell that it wasn't easy for you. I'm so very sorry that you didn't have a loving, wonderful relationship with your mom. But, please know that you are SO COURAGEOUS and STRONG for removing yourself from that toxic relationship and surrounding. You did the right thing! Think of how many people whom you may have helped by just sharing your situation. You give people the will and strength to do the same. Children deserve and need to feel safe and unconditionally loved. And YOU are that mother for your children. You broke that chain and didn't pass it on to your babies. Kudos to you! So many people don't get themselves out of bad situations and they pass it down to their children and it's a vicious cycle. I'm so happy and proud of you! YOU ROCK, GIRLFRIEND! I hope and wish you all the love and happiness that you deserve. I, for one love you here on KZbin. XOXO'S

[@barbarajohnson83]

You and Adam have done a wonderful job creating the stable home life for your kids that you and your sister were denied. Everyone goes through difficult times. I went through two divorces by the time I was 14 years old. So I can totally relate to your experiences. Love to you my friend. ❤️

[@jemmyhilton4327]

Hello 👋 Barbara, how are you doing?

[@alisonstroud1653]

Thank you for such a heartfelt vlog, we are all with you in this ‘life journey’ and we all love you. Xx

[@janeemery6254]

OMG! So much to process! This hits home for me in such a big way. Thank you for sharing 💕

[@sandymyers1182]

Yeah… me too! I could write a book.

[@boentenza4492]

I’m 60 and still go through child hood angst. But you have overcome your childhood trauma but you still have the trauma. Does that make sense? Talking is the best therapy. 😍

[@shannonlowery2668]

Growing up with my mom we were the same way both my mom and stepfather have been disabled my whole life. We never knew if we were going to eat. Hell i remember havimg to split a bed with my lil brother he had the top matress and i had the box spring. I still struggle today with over buying food because im afraid of not having it in my house. Girl work through it with your theripist dont hd back. I know i am with mine.

[@thomassmith6344]

Hello Shannon

[@HannahMattox]

I had to pause at bringing Murphy home to go drop off my boy at speech and run to the Aldi right down the street from there, and came back to see Murphy once more before I go back in to pick up my boy 🤣 I'll eventually finish watching 🤣

[@Onetiredmama11]

I totally get it. This might be too much to share on here but I'm a full-time preschool teacher and a single mom. I work my butt off (or at least I feel like I do and people close to me tell me that I do) but on my most recent tax documents, I realized I only made 17k for the entire year! I always knew I was "broke" but my gosh, how did I even get my son and I through the year? Idk how to get myself out of this rutt because I truly love my job so much but clearly financially it's just not going to be enough for my family and I. I could use some prayers and positive thoughts for guidance for my future. Thanks for sharing all this, Jen. It was so interesting to hear it all. Xo, Mandy

[@bridgettehunt6193]

Sending you hugs! No family....despite how it looks both inside and out is perfect. We all have our own struggles. Thank you for sharing your struggles. People need to hear that it is ok to not be ok and to get help! Sometimes people don't even realize that what they went through or are going through now is not healthy. Thank you for shedding light into the dark corners!

[@eringreenberg240]

I very much agree with one of your final statements, it DOES give someone more character! Adversity isn't inherently a bad thing. You've clearly taken those things and used them as assets and stepping stones for development. Kuddos!

[@thomassmith6344]

Hello Erin

[@marquitabortiz4718]

Thank you for sharing… obviously your parents emulated their parents parenting skills ??!!!!!!! It made you a stronger person who will go to the n Th degree to be sure the kids don’t repeat history! You appreciate what you’ve gone thru & you know what is important for kids! You have succeeded in a happy relationship w/ Adam… & Have 2 loving children. You have more than some! I always felt my Paternal Grandmother was distant… we thought it was us… no it wasn’t … it was her! She was pregnant w/ my Father before it was ok to be so and she hid him in the mountains w/ her parents! No illegitimate kids wanted!! She took it out in him… all he wanted was to be loved! We know WE loved him!! He tried till they both died.. but Dad always loved us & all he met! You are sensitive to these needs now .. & love Adam & your kids.. write out your feelings.. also find you a sensitive Therapist! It makes a difference! If it matters I care!! Wish you much love… it’s just me & Mom I just lost a lot of maternal relatives and 2 sisters in 10.5 mos!! I’m the oldest & it is quite hard to go from 2 parent snd 1 of 4 kids to the oldest & only! God Bless you! 🌈🙏🌹🥰

[@RAM-eb2te]

❤️ Virtual hugs. Thanks for sharing. Love your videos and the person you have become! I know how hard it can be to overcome difficult pasts! ❤️

[@fundawebb5406]

I’m soo proud of you, knowing your trauma and being able to talk about it?? You are one strong woman and you should also be proud of yourself! 🐅🌈

[@pennypadegimas7349]

You are brave and strong! Your determination makes the world a better place. And about your rebelliousness...well-behaved women rarely make history. You go, girl!

[@angelamarcinkevich9202]

Use the green cake plate put a plant on it , or vase of flowers on top

[@thomassmith6344]

Hello Angela

[@conniefreeman3943]

I went thru a lot like you when my parents divorced, I had to take a lot of counseling, I’m 58 now and still dealing with some but I’m doing so much better, thanks for sharing

[@Sherri5453]

You are so right Jen about we all struggle. Everyone just doesn't talk about it. I have gone to counseling in the past and may again soon. We have settled my parents in to assisted living. My dad and I are like oil and water. We don't relate well. With stress of the move he has been taking it out on me when I'm just trying to help. He has always come after me as the whipping person. Not physically but emotionally. I have to separate myself sometimes. You hang in there. I'm proud of you and what you are accomplishing. Blessings to you and the family!

[@danaa6283]

Unlike many you have such a genuine quality to your story telling. I sympathize with your childhood. I had different issues with my mother and to this day we still don't speak(I will be 55 later this month). I pride myself on not being like "her" and being wise enough to understand that a marriage can look great to others but not be great. Stay strong and push thru the process. One of the ways I have dealt with my childhood is by making sure I didn't become "her". You have done the same. There is victory in being a better person:) hugs

[@Jen-Chapin]

Thank you for sharing. Grief is complicated, no matter the relationship. I relate to what you are saying!

[@tracywishom9999]

My goodness, thank you so much for sharing. Here's a virtual hug for you. You're a survivor and I admire you. On a lighter note, we grew up with view masters too. The love letter warmed my heart ❤

[@jeanieh9386]

Bless your heart. Therapy is such a good thing. I’m so glad you have someone to talk to objectively. That is always good. I applaud you……because you broke the cycle that made your early years hard. That is a true feat! My niece grew up in a similar situation and at 40 she is still trying to overcome it. In many ways it is a day to day struggle. I always tell her that it is okay to choose your family and let unhealthy relationships fall to the wayside. Your hurt is palpable through the screen and you have my great respect for sharing and being authentic. You are an overcomer!

[@yeetasaurus9427]

I just came across this video of yours. I know it's old. My mom and her sister grew up in a dysfunctional home. My mom did therapy and is on medications her entire life. But, my mom is an amazing mom!! She did not bring all that into how she raised me. I have wonderful memories growing up. The 80's was a hard time for us, too. I remember them always being broke. But, God always provided. My dad got bonuses at work, or a better job came up for him to do. He traveled all over the world. My mom kept the home going and supported me. Everything you're doing is amazing. I love that your life reminds me of my mom. You're an amazing mom, homemaker, and working woman. Just like my mom!

[@Jen-Chapin]

Thank you for sharing! ♥️♥️

[@yeetasaurus9427]

@@Jen-Chapin Love all your videos.

[@melindadiaz3865]

Jen…I totally understand what you went through. I grew up with a mean spirited controlling father. My Mom never took up for us either. I could not wait to get out of the house when I turned 18 which led to a lot of bad choices but I eventually straighten out my life and had 2 great kids. Now my Mom is elderly and lives with me which brings up a lot of childhood issues. It does help to hear other peoples stories. Makes you feel not so alone. Thank you for sharing.

[@magajacome]

Jen, as I was listening to you I found myself nodding and saying mmhmm as if you were in front of me. You are so real. Now, I think that everything in this life happens for a reason. And the Jennifer that you have become would not be possible without all the struggle. It is unfortunate that you had to go thru so much, but maybe that is what made you the strong, independent, loving mom and wife that you are now ( and that we admire). I also feel that everybody should go to therapy, even the ones who grew up in a loving family (I am looking at you Adam). I grew up in a loving family but I understood I needed to go to therapy after reading the book "I am not your perfect Mexican daughter", it opened my eyes as I have always been a people pleaser and that is not healthy either. I send you a big hug and I wish that we could have these conversations with a Margarita on hand. From the Windy City: Maria Jacome

[@pamjohnson2168]

Thank you for sharing Jen. These things are so hard to process and I hope this community you have built helps you through these tough times and bad days. You are a wonderful human being and I thank you for letting me share your life.

[@DianePahl]

On September 25, 1926, Ford Motor Company adopted a five-day, 40 hour workweek. Yes, it was Henry Ford. Now you know for sure, lol.

[@Nesie1965]

That view master may be worth something....especially the discs. My mom gave my son one when he was 3....he's 25 now...and it was the big hit that Christmas....I'm surprised we didn't all have black eyes from him shoving it into our face to show us the dinasaurs. LOL!!! We still laugh about it. I think I still have it in the attic. I need to look for it...we have a grand daughter now and a grandson on the way....they will enjoy it someday.

[@pattiupton1499]

Wow, I'm sorry you and your Sister went through so much. That hard past is what has helped you be such a great Mom. Bless you!!

[@lorriebell7997]

Thanks for sharing part of your story! I feel for you , we all have our crap to work through. You can be so proud of all your hard work and making a better life for your family! When you loose family members with unresolved conflict it is hard to work through, keep doing the work. Love to you and your family.

[@lunagal]

Daaaaavidddd! *swoooon*. Thank you for sharing. I think you’ve turned out very well. I had 2 parents and they was supportive. ❤️