Tuesday, March 4, 2014

Rise Above

I try to keep things light, happy and focus on content that is geared towards fashion and style. I share basic snip-its of my life, but have avoided going into too much depth to keep some aspects private.

Today, I decided to put something out there that hurt my heart and momentarily deflated my pep like a big balloon. I went back and forth a hundred times contemplating whether I should hit the "publish" button, but went with my gut in hopes that I could remind others that they are not alone in this world we call blogging.

Why are people so mean? Are there really people out there that feel better about themselves when they are ugly to others? Obviously there are. I guess I live in a bubble that is unrealistic. I am not perfect. I am not always the nicest person. I have said hurtful things to other people, but I am pretty positive that it came to a halt back in my teenage years.


I received a tacky comment on my post yesterday and yes, I deleted it. Why? Because it wasn't constructive or heartfelt at all. It was downright rude. I didn't write about a controversial topic for this "reader" to feel like it was okay to leave something sarcastic, catty and snarky. They seemed to be "sincerely" concerned about the weight that I didn't realized I had gained, asked if everything was okay and then said I have become frumpy.

You might be asking yourself why I am even acknowledging this person and their uncalled for comment. There are hundreds of people that get "called" out on a daily basis and don't acknowledge an ounce of it. They move on as if it wasn't said or it didn't happen. Maybe that's what I should be doing, but that's not my personality. I tend to address things with passion and put them out there on the table. Yes, I know things could be much worse. This is a small potato, but a rotten one that is hard for me to just toss into the garbage.

The truth is that it's not right. Plain and simple. I completely understand that when you become a blogger, put yourself out there for others to judge and sign on the dotted line you become fair game to anything and everything, good or bad. It's the risk we all take, but it doesn't make it easier to digest or acceptable for others to judge our appearance or how we choose live. Maybe this comment was a sign or wake up call; a nudge to get healthy and fit again or up my style game. I am not certain.

I am all about constructive criticism and welcome it, but when it boils down to someone being downright hurtful I have a tough time accepting it. 

Why do we tend to let the negatives outweigh the positives? Why have I chosen to focus on one, not so nice comment, instead of the hundreds of uplifting ones?

Here's the deal, I did focus on this one comment for more than half of my day and didn't think twice about all the positive ones. I let it get under my skin and really bother me. After I chewed on things and reflected on what was said, I raised the palm of my hand and proceeded to smack it to my forehead. Stop, Shanna. This is ridiculous. You have an immense amount of support and so much to be grateful for. Don't let a few words rain on your parade and knock you down. 

I am not going to lie and pretend that yesterday didn't make me question what I am doing. Is all of the stress, pressure, hard work, posting photos of myself and being judged behind a computer screen really worth it? Absolutely, at least right now.

It's tough stuff comparing yourself to others on the internet day in and day out; gorgeous women, flawless skin, legs a mile long, ripped arms, designer clothes, professional photography, Anthropologie styled homes, lavish vacations and crazy successes.

But at the end of the day, this blog DOES NOT define me or my life. It started as a hobby and has slowly provided a little extra income to help pay the bills and have some fun with my family. It's not a simple task to separate "blog land" from "real land". My dog climbs into my lap while I type, a friend tags me in picture of my kids on Facebook and a phone call that I am about to place to my mom for encouragement are some of the "right now" details that remind me of who I am and the person that I have slowly learned to love again.

I have feelings and a heart that can be wounded by words, but I will not let a few sentences said by someone over the internet steal my joy or make me doubt myself again. I will rise above and let it put wind in my sail.


I encourage all of you to listen to this Hunter Hayes song. It really spoke to me yesterday and the words hit home. It relates to us all no matter where we are in our lives. YOU are not invisible. Remember that! Always.

Shanna

84 comments:

Ashleigh said...

Shake off the haters girl! You look GORGEOUS! I love your style. It's easy to hide behind your keyboard and say things that aren't nice. SHAKE EM OFF! You look GOOD.
-Ash
www.stylizedwannabe.blogspot.com

Unknown said...

Shanna don't let the haters get you down. You are a smart beautiful successful blogger! This is just a glimpse into your life and there's so much more out there.

I am always surprised that people would right rude comments that could hurt people's feelings. I was taught if you don't have anything nice to say, zip it.

Alice
www.happinessatmidlife.com

Jeans and a Teacup said...

I really don't understand the negative comments and opinions - especially when they are not asked for! I seriously think those types of people have something wrong with their brains.
And you DO NOT look like you've gained weight and I think your outfits just keep getting better. No need to change anything!
~Jessica
Jeans and a Teacup

Anonymous said...

So sorry to hear that this happened! I don't waste my time or anyone else's time with negativity... life is too short! :)

Unknown said...

Shanna you look gorgeous as usual. I can't understand why anyone would leave such a horrible and hurtful comment. I know it's a cliche but I certainly believe in keeping quiet if you can't say anything nice. You do not look as though you've put on weight at all, I am always in awe of your beautiful photos. I am the same though, I always concentrate on the negative comments but am slowly learning to ignore them. I hope you have a much happier day today :) x

Rachelle (http://pinksole.com/) said...

Shanna, I'm happy you got this of your chest, but I'm also sad you let this person get to you. I was having this conversation with my bestfriend yesterday as to why people are so fixated on weight? The person who left that comment was trying to hurt your feelings and they succeeded. First, I will say you look exactly the same to me, you are in good shape and you look GORGEOUS. Second, imagine for a second you did gain some weight, this is your business solely and that person is an asshole for bringing it up. The value of a women is not defined by the number on a scale. So I hope next time someone says something mean to you, I know it will happen again, just respond to their comment by saying "bless your heart" or just ignore them.
PS: again please remember that you are beautiful, check out Agi's post (http://vodkainfusedlemonade.com/2014/03/04/i-am-beautiful-link-up/)

xoxo
​PinkSole​

Sheaffer {Pinterest Told Me To} said...

Haters are the true measure of success! So, congratulations! ;) I know it's hard to not let them get you down, but that poor girl has SOMETHING going on in her life that is making her a miserable person. You are GORGEOUS, and more importantly, you have GENUINE friendships and a LOVING family! You've got it goin' on! No wonder she's jealous!

Charming Lucy said...

Oh good grief, what is wrong with women?! My daughter has recently been bullied at school so I am feeling your pain. I truly think that it all boils down to jealousy - and ignorance. I actually bought my daughter a cuff to wear that says "Rise Above" - to remind her that God calls us to be different than others. But, I admit, sometimes it is hard. You are beautiful and I have never noticed that there is anything wrong with you - and I read your blog EVERY day. I think you are prefect(: Soldier on Shanna. Rise above(: Susan

Lulu Soler said...

I'm so sorry to hear that. It amazes me how thoughtless and mean people can be. Where did it become ok to just say anything that's on your mind? It's almost praised "Well I just tell it like it is!" mentality. I for one am NOT about hurting others. I hope you have a wonderful day!

Lulu
simplylulustyle.com

Nina Piccini said...

People can be really hurtful. It makes me really sad that you received a comment like that because I think you're a gorgeous person inside and out and I look up to you big time!! Keep doing what you're doing for yourself and all of the people and friends who love your work!!

xoxoxoxo, Nina
afterthe40barfinish

Caroline said...

I don't think I'll ever understand how anybody is able to be so hurtful and rude - I don't think that's ever okay, and I think everyone would be in such a better place if everyone tried every day to be a little nicer, a little more understanding, a little more supportive. And for the record, Shanna - I don't think you've ever looked better!!

Jessica said...

You are beautiful and real, and your readers LOVE you for it! Don't let a mean, heartless comment like that (from some coward with a computer) get you down. Unfortunately, those kind of people will always be out there, waiting to try to take down the positive, happy people in the world. And you are one of those positive, happy people, Shanna! Keep letting your light shine:)

Unknown said...

Shanna I have followed you for a year and a half and you are one of my FAVORITEEE bloggers, you are so beautiful and have great style!! Don't change anything! Unfortunately, i am the same way and I let people get to me…my boyfriend is the complete opposite and doesn't let anyone bother him (drives me nuts lol). Ill tell you the same thing he alwayssss says to me when I start to vent about something another person said or did… Don't suffer fools love!

Kimberly said...

Oh girl, why didn't you text or email me?! I'm so sorry to hear this happened...to you, of all people! I have totally been there and have struggled to deal with it in the same way you are now. It is very tough to continually put ourselves out there each day for anyone who hides behind a computer to criticize openly. Because they can leave the comment and walk away unaffected, but it cuts deep for us and leaves us changed. The best way that I've learned to handle with these types of comments is to remember why I started (which it sounds like you are doing), to remember WHOSE I am & to offer grace to those who chose to hurt me. It is such a hard thing to do...but thankfully with God's help, it's completely possible to offer forgiveness (even when no apology is offered) and to not allow the seed of bitterness to take root. You are absolutely beautiful inside & out - I hope your day is a much better one today! Love you to pieces!! xoxo

www.pennypincherfashion.com

Unknown said...

OMG! Why on earth would anyone ever post such a hurtful negative thing?

It never ceases to amaze me at how rude, thoughtless and inconsiderate people can be.

Not that it matters....but if in fact you have gained weight, I have not noticed it at all! Regardless, you are absolutely beautiful and I am sorry that someone would say something so hurtful.

As hard it it might be, brush it off, try to forget about it and move forward. This rude %&$#! individual isn't worth your time or energy!

Heidi said...

I don't think everyday needs to be filled with puppies and rainbows, but there's just no need to be blatantly rude - ESPECIALLY when it comes to a women's weight. That's just a big (pun intended) NO! Everyone knows that. It's up there with the world is round. Just a fact and it's something people shouldn't even mess with.

With that being said - you're lovely and definitely not frumpy!

http://jax-and-jewels.blogspot.com

JMoAtHome said...

I can't tell you how much reading your blog has helped me take risks to try new fashion and to feel good about myself in the process. I'm so thankful for blogs like yours; it's a shame others allow their personal issues or misguided opinions to taint something so wonderful, genuine, and fun. But, you will "carry on," right? You have too much positive spirit to let this get you down for long!! You are beautiful--and that is made even better because you help others see their beauty, too.

Whitney and Blaire said...

Shanna, It breaks my heart that this happened. I am a very new follower of yours, and I cannot say enough how fabulous I think you are. I am proud to be a part of a blogging community of women that lift each other up. I hope you can dust this off ans continue on with your awesome self!
xo, Blaire
Peaches In A Pod

Unknown said...

This just spoke to my heart more than you will ever know. I love you girlfriend, and please don't let them get to you. I'm emailing you now…xo

Lauren {By Lauren M} said...

I'm so sorry to hear that this happened. People can be so thoughtless and hurtful. Just know that you are a truly beautiful person both inside and out. You have so many people who love and support you!
xo,
Lauren

Rachel said...

Oh my gosh FRUMPY? haha you are far from that- you have an awesome fashion blog! People love to say things when they are behind the anonymity of a computer. It's happened to me before many times (I've been called some not-so-nice words on a public website before) and you just have to ignore it the best that you can.

I always say that "You are not designed for everyone to like you". No matter how awesome you are, there will always be someone who doesn't like you or is jealous.

Helene in Between said...

I'm so sorry that happened Shanna. It's really so unfortunate that people do that especially when you weren't inciting any kind of response of that nature! but luckily you are strong and have a good head on your shoulders! keep it up girl!

Alyssa said...

Shanna, I am so sorry this happened to you (seriously, frumpy? I'm not even sure what this person was looking at, but it couldn't have been you!) but I have to applaud the way you've dealt with it in a classy way. The way I see it, you can either ignore these types of things (because really the only thing people like this want is someone to pay attention to them, which is sad) or you can say something if it really bothers you, and I'm glad you spoke up and stayed true to your personality. I always find it laughable that people think they are untouchable behind a computer screen and that they can post or comment or tweet whatever they'd like--it's silly really, and I pity people that have to take out whatever is going wrong in their lives on others over the internet.

Elizabeth M said...

Can I just say I laughed when I read "frumpy" - you are probably the last person on the internet who fits that category.

I am not sure why people feel the need to do that. I understand that all people may not like all bloggers (I certainly don't), but why spread bad energy by writing negative things? I'm with you on this - rising above is always the best idea.

Anonymous said...

If they don't have something nice and constructive to say then they shouldn't have said it. Sorry to hear that. Wouldn't let it get me down. They just wish they had your style :)

Amy said...

I am so sorry that you had to read something like that! I am absolutely shocked that someone would call you frumpy! You are beautiful and your outfits are always so well thought out and put together! I love how you address the importance of not comparing yourself to all those other bloggers with the million dollar wardrobes. Sometimes it is hard to get caught up in this whole blogging world but this was definitely a reminder of how important it is to stay grounded. Keep your head up and just remember how many of us think you are gorgeous!

xo Amy
www.urbanfrill.com

Kate at Green Fashionista said...

First of all, you look fantastic as always and are the farthest thing from frumpy. I'm so sorry this happened to you, just know that you are beautiful and you have built a huge following on your amazing style. Keep your head up and treasure the rest of us who look forward to reading each of your posts and that beautiful family of yours ;-)

dannyscotland said...

Hi, I'm a brand new reader on your blog, and I think it's terrible that someone wrote something so mean and hurtful. Who are they to judge how you look? Who in this world is perfect? Who gave them the right to be the judge of everyone else? Some people find that the internet gives them a false sens of anonymity, that they can write things they wouldn't normally say to someone's face. My sincere hope is that the person who wrote that terrible, mean-spirited comment will see your post today, realize that what they did was wrong on so many levels, and then do the right thing and publicly apologize to you in the comments. How awful that you spent half your day feeling stinky rotten because someone else didn't take the time to think about what they wrote before they themselves hit 'publish'. Well, I for one think you are quite lovely, and I appreciate that you are willing to share your style with others. Nothing that person wrote is accurate in the least.

Caitlin C said...

I saw a glimpse of the comment yesterday and was shocked! You certainly do not look the least bit frumpy, you're gorgeous darling! Don't let one hurtful person make you think otherwise. You are such an inspiration to other women!

Caitlin C
withpearlsandastethoscope.blogspot.com

Because of Jackie said...

Oh gosh, what is wrong with people? I'm glad you deleted the comment, it doesn't deserve to be there and ruin the work you have put behind this blog. I know the comments can be a downer sometimes, but you have so many MORE people that love you and it doesn't matter that you put yourself out there, there is just no need for rudeness. I'm sorry for the person who feels the need to write mean things, it's more their issue than yours, but I get that it still hurts. Sorry friend;(

TheTinyHeart said...

Ugh, I'm so sorry that this happened. You are one of the nicest, most sincere bloggers out there and it makes me really sad that someone was nothing but mean to you. I'm glad you addressed it instead of letting it slide. Don't let the haters get you down!

-Sharon
The Tiny Heart
Jewelry Giveaway!

Unknown said...

Wow, so incredibly rude. I mean I get constructive criticism and I ALSO welcome it. But really? FRUMPY? Girl that is the last word I would think of, wait I would NEVER think of that word when it comes to you. I'm so glad you wrote this though, I think we do let things that hurt us pass by without acknowledging them. And yes, as bloggers, we put ourselves out there for good and bad. But commenting on someone's body is just uncalled for. You are beautiful and I truly love coming to your blog every day and feeling inspired by you! Keep your head up, you are doing so much good :)

pretty little things said...

haters are gonna hate! thats par for the course especially in blogging, but you know -- behind hate is always someone who is jealous. so clearly this person is jealous of you and your blogging success. the best revenge is living well : )

http://allthingsprettyandlittle.blogspot.com/

Shira said...

Girl, so proud of you for working through that awful comment and coming out with such great realizations. I am very sensitive and nasty comments really affect me too. Also, like you, I just don't understand why ppl feel the need to be cruel- I want to believe people are good so it's so upsetting when things like this happen! Glad you deleted it- you don't need the negativity on there!

Cece @Mahogany Drive said...

I'm not sure why anybody would want to be snarky on your blog. You are one of the nicest and sweetest bloggers out there. Rise above!! That's all you can do and I think you will be okay. I don't have a thick skin. I don't handle such things well and luckily I have not dealt with it thus far but I think you are doing great. We all have to deal with things in our own way.

Unknown said...

First of all.. what weight?! You have a perfect little body and are absolutely BEAUTIFUL! That person needs thumped in the head.

On another note.. I have been struggling with this issue this week too. Not on my blog but in life - ugh.. been praying extra hard this week. And that's all you really can do. Give it to God and help let Him help you through your struggles.

Love you Shanna. You are such a wonderful person! BIG HUGS!!!

Kayla
www.lovelucygirl.com

Alyssa said...

you are so beautiful. the first time I stumbled on your blog I was in awe. I come back weekly to see your style.
And obviously you are just as beautiful on the inside seeing how you have handled such a disturbing situation.
Alyssa
alyssabarnettbeauty.com

LV said...

I am so sorry that you had to deal with the snarky comment. It is definitely not fun and I have had my share of those too. I try to keep my blog a place of positivity and I can related to you deleting the comment because it adds nothing of value to your community. It seems like we now have a culture of mean women, especially in the blogging world. It seems that mean girls grow up to be mean women. Hold your head up and keep being you. Your blog is awesome!

http://foodfashionandflow.blogspot.com

Page said...

I don't usually comment on your blog, but I wanted to tell you how much I look forward to it. You have a wonderful attitude, and you've encouraged me to be more creative in my style - so thank you! Also, no way have you gained weight or become frumpy!

Page said...

I don't usually comment on your blog, but I wanted to tell you how much I look forward to it. You have a wonderful attitude, and you've encouraged me to be more creative in my style - so thank you! Also, no way have you gained weight or become frumpy!

Anne N. said...

Keep on, keepin' on! I love your authentic blog and instagram! I wish I knew why some people are so mean and vicious--just had this conversation with my teenager. But luckily, there are lots of good people out there who are NICE. If God is for us, who can be against us?

Sybil@PeaceitallTogether said...

You are beautiful! I am trying hard not to be angry at such a person who would criticize and put you down. I know it is hard not to take those types of comments and let them get the best of you. I have done it too. I'm so glad that you were able to gain some perspective. Love you!

A Labour of Life said...

Good Lord, I do not understand the need to make malicious comments to people, and sadly you are not alone in being attacked nor in how you feel about it. Regardless of how we may come across in our blogs we are all still fragile flesh and blood people. Your style, just like you are ever evolving and changing to reflect who you are and where you want to be, never let anything that anyone says change that about you. Keep writing and posting and keep making us smile. Thanks for always having the courage to put it out there, just sorry that the one bad comment caught you at a bad moment. And not that i need to say it but you always look awesome and if that is someones definition of frumpy then I aspire to be frumpy.

Always Maylee said...

Wait, someone actually used the word frumpy to describe you? That just doesn't fit at all. You are beautiful... both inside and out. People think just because they're sitting behind a computer, they can say anything they want. It's sad. But to heck with them right?! You're one of the most sincere and real bloggers and I feel lucky to have "met" you. I'm glad that you wrote this post. Love you!

xo, Yi-chia
Always Maylee

Unknown said...

I hate it for them that they think such things are ok to be written and sent to bloggers. I myself do not have a blog, but I am a big blog reading fan. I see the hateful comments that are written on some blogs that aren't "approved before posting" and I just can't wrap my mind around people thinking some of the things they say are ok. As a reader if it bothers you that much, you choose to read it. Go find another blog. Don't terrorize others. I completely agree with this post. I think your killing it in life so don't let them get you down! I love the fashion post! (And the ones about the doggie =))

Kristen Joann said...

Ah, this post really resonated with me. I have been blogging for a few years now and about a year ago I got a string of offensive comments from an anonymous (but I knew who it was) person. It made me feel as if my blog was being used for "haters" to spy in on my life and was quite upsetting. I let this one person steal the joy that I get from blogging. It actually led me stop blogging for a few months! Your response is such a good reminder to me that while we do put ourselves out there, there's no reason to tolerate someone else being nasty and rude. OR to let it bring us down. Thank you for sharing your experience! It was much undeserved but you handled it with class, grace and honesty!

Unknown said...

You are a beautiful person inside and out! I just can't understand why someone would take time out of their day just to write rude comments. You have an amazing blog and it's truly inspirational and I honestly love that you wrote about what happened yesterday because it shows that you care and you just don't let it get swept under the rug. I see things like this quite often and it makes me sick. People who don't blog don't understand the amount of time and energy that it takes to put a post out there and to be so insensitive like that is so cruel. Keep doing what you have been doing because you have such a great following of people who admire you for who you are!!

I hope by seeing the out pour of comments of people who stand behind you today never make you doubt yourself again!

Xo, Erica
www.casuallystyled.com

Tori said...

This comment by this person makes my blood boil! Eck! First off your are simply GORGEOUS--and your heart is so genuine and kind on the blog. Second, we should be building each other up as bloggers and women. Empowerment and celebrating others and their successes is so important and it makes me sad when other women don't get that. I am not sure if it makes them feel better to put someone down--but it shows their bad character and not yours :) I suffered from an eating disorder for many years and I will tell you weight does not define me anymore and being a rail didn't make me happy. Now I try and embrace what I have--be healthy but not obsessive--and if someone thinks I am too big, that's on them! :)

Tori
FashionBlingGirlyThings

Shall We sasa said...

I love it:) <3

New on www.shallwesasa.com

Johanna said...

I've been following your blog for a long time. Started when I was single to now being a full blown working mom. You inspired me to do outfit posts and take the plunge on my own blog. Moms can be hip, too! Don't let someone's negativity rain on your parade. A lot of us admire how far you've taken your blog. Keep doing what you're doing. I always look forward to reading your blog daily!

Kelly @ turned UP to ELEVEN! said...

I am so sorry you have to deal with negativity. I always find your blog inspiring and uplifting and fun, and kudos to you for taking the high road, venting your feelings and moving on. Keep up the great work!

PS If you're frumpy - I'd love for them to see my daily wardrobe! ;)

carlyinaustin said...

hi, shanna -- i'm a daily reader of your blog, and that wouldn't be the case if i didn't think you're fab!!! :) i'm sorry that people are so ugly sometimes -- imma pray for her--sounds like she needs it ;) you just keep rockin'!! xoxo!

Kellyann Rohr said...

Oh Shanna! I am so sorry that happened to you. I adore your style and I think you look great! You wear things we can all wear - and you look awesome. Awhile back you said something about gaining weight and I thought that sounded crazy because you look terrific. It's funny that someone commented on yesterdays outfit because I kept thinking about how great you looked! Words do hurt - I wish everyone understood that and we could be immune to that type of hurt. Just remember for every negative comment you have about a hundred of us enjoying your blog each and every day!

TaraMixandMatch said...

Shanna, this has happened to all of us. It really sucks, and I really try my best to ignore the negativity, but I know it can be hard. You are gorgeous and you know I love you!! Let me know if you need anything!

LG @ thelaurelgazette.com said...

I've been reading your blog for awhile and I echo what everyone else has said about you - you're beautiful and stylish and sweet and its pretty awful that someone took a shot at you just to boost their own miserable self-esteem. And yeah, there are some fashion bloggers out there who are intimidating and super fancy and all that, but what makes you better than the rest in my eyes is the fact that your style is not only versatile + creative + inspiring but it also looks like you are actually having fun and enjoying yourself!!

Audrey @ Putting Me Together said...

Aw, Shanna! Know you're not alone, and the demeaning comments have hit us all. And even though we know they're said by people who don't deserve our respect or attention, I know it's so so so so hard to not be affected by them.

I can't take back whatever was said to you, but know that you have THOUSANDS of supporters who love you, think you are absolutely gorgeous inside and out, and not only draw inspiration from you but care about you too. Keep doing YOU! The world needs a little more of you. :)

Misty, Handbags + Handguns said...

Someone called YOU frumpy? That person is obviously reading your blog in their sweats while eating chocolate.

Michelle | Remy and Me. said...

That was a beautiful, honest post. Thank you for publishing it. {{hugs!}}

Unknown said...

People can be so rude sometimes! You are amazing and beautiful! Your outfits and posts are always so cheerful and happy. I guess some people want to steal that from you. Keep up the amazing job you're doing on your blog. You are one of the bloggers I look up to and hope to have the loyal readers you have one day :)

http://kacieskloset.blogspot.com/

Chelsea Moos said...

The sad thing is I don't think I can say anything that will truly make you feel better about that butthead. But, you said it best when you said that it's easier to focus on one negative instead of one-hundred positives. So here is #101 positive... You are beautiful. You are strong. You are brave. You are important. You are resilient. You are special. You are inspiring. I have gained a huge amount of admiration for you, in that you didn't give in to the negativity. It's okay to acknowledge it and I'm glad you did. Sadly, a large chunk of today's population loves drama and put others down so they don't have to look in the mirror. I hope you focus on the positive, something I also am learning to do. <3

Chelsea Oliver said...

So I somehow miss the post from yesterday, and now that I'm looking over the pictures, all I'm thinking is, how does Shanna always look so stylish. I mean really, you're just wearing a maxi and chambray and yet you are KILLING it. Let the haters hate. You are flawless...believe that. xoxo

-Chelsea
chelsandthecity.blogspot.com

courtney said...

let me guess, the commenter was from "anonymous". it's always the anons that leave the most hateful comments.

although i rarely comment, i read you everyday. your blog is always the first in my feed i look to see if there's an update. :)

i had to go back and see what photo/outfit they were referring to. WHAT?! you look amazing! and certainly not frumpy!

take elsa's advice....let it go, let it gooooooo! ;)

Elegance and Mommyhood said...

What a raw, beautiful & positive post. I cannot believe you have haters. To each their own. Continue being your positive, strong, brave, beautiful self.

Thank you for sharing this - so deep. =)

Unknown said...

We've all had these moments. They suck the life and creativity out of us if we let them. But isn't that what some people just thrive off of in their sad, sick hearts? To comment and hurt someone they don't know in the guise of "sincerity". It's awful and I'm glad you realized that it is worthless like they probably feel each day and so they make these comments.

Is that harsh? I don't care. I once spent half a night sick in a hotel room because someone told me that traveling for my job made me a terrible mother and my kids hated me. It took my best friend a few hours to talk me down. Then she put that person in their place and my readers rallied and I realized that was exactly what that freak commenter wanted.

You are a reason I keep going on blogging. I love your site, your posts and the sheer beauty of it all.

L,
Vicky
The Mummy Chronicles

Ashley said...

You are the exact opposite of frumpy, my friend. I can honestly say I've never even *though*...oh wow, Shanna is putting on weight...or Shanna is really starting to look frumpy. I mean...I literally think the exact opposite. Every picture of you, I think Shanna is nailingggggg this look and she is so gorgeous!!! Ahhhhh!!!!!

It reminds me of that Jimmy Kimmel skit from the Oscars...where people are snarking behind their tv screen (in this case behind their computer), and then they're actually in their ratty pjs eating cheetos!! :) If they meant for it to be constructive, they would have done it openly and given you a name and an email to respond to. They were just in a particular feisty mood and you were their victim!

You're amazing. Keep on keeping on, because this blog world needs you!

susan jakovina said...

I had to come read. Mostly because I had a blogger friend who is local get slammed on GOMI yesterday something awful. She felt like you. And just couldn't shake it.
I say, haters will hate. And there are people out there who have nothing better to do with their time than hurt others.
You are a gorgeous soul...I feel it in your writing, I see it in your face and in the face of your family. And also, you're beautiful in every photo. How dare she.
That's all. xox

Setarra said...

Wow. People really have some nerve... This takes me back to a couple of days ago when a co-worker asked if I was happy with my engagement ring because they would've taken it back to get a bigger "bling." Like seriously? Why? What's the point? That quote at the beginning of this post brought me back to that moment. If she didn't have anything good to say, she should've just kept her mouth shut and thoughts to herself because I love my ring and that's all that really matters. Don't let the haters get to you Shanna! You're beautiful just the way you are :)

Rebecca said...

It may sound so cliche but "dont let anyone dull your sparkle" Shanna. Truth be told...I'm happier now that I've stopped looking at the stats, number of followers etc etc. I just write, take pics & go my own merry way. More power to you!!!

Rebecca
www.redtagchiclosangeles.com

Mrs. Crazy said...

If you're frumpy... let me be as frumpy!Please! I think you are a beautiful, inside and out!! Keep up the great work... Hold your head up and know!!

Lauren @ Exploring My Style said...

Don't let one hater take the spotlight over the hundreds of girls and bloggers who adore you and your blog. Keep up the great work Shanna!
Lauren
Exploring My Style

Eva Marie Taylor said...

I'm so sorry someone left such a horrible comment. Who knows the root reason why. Negative experiences always tend to outweigh the positive because that's just what rotten things do...stink up the place until that's all you can focus on. I'm glad you opened up this post to receive positive feedback. And it's not that you are fishing for compliments...we all need to be uplifted and encouraged to not believe or let negativity have any power over us. Thanks for being real and sharing this post. It shows that you are human with real emotions, and people behind their computers tend to forget or just ignore that. I wish people would focus their energy on being encouraging rather than masking their insults under "constructive criticism & concern." You have great style and an honest heart, making you beautiful both inside and out.
Eva Marie Taylor

Erin said...

Gah! I didn't even see this yesterday before posting my own version of this nonsense today. Well said! It's truly mind boggling that there are so many out there who find joy from being ugly. Keep your head up, you're the good egg!

Brie Bemis @ Sophistifunk said...

Ugh, this is so disappointing to have to read. I truly don't understand how people can be so mean. Keep your head up, beautiful girl!

Jessi said...

Gained weight? Are they serious?!! You are perfect!! Some people just go out of their way to tear you down. I'll never understand it but you're right you can't let it get to you. For that one person there's thousands more that adore you and your style and I'm one of them! Ignore the haters, you're beautiful :)

Jessi
http://www.haircutandgeneralattitude.com

All That Glitters said...

This is one of those things I dread DAILY....that day I innocently open up my wordpress admin page and see a mean comment. I'm not really sure how I've made it this far without one, but I am so grateful for that. No matter how much confidence you have, that rude comment will hurt just as much. You are beautiful my dear, keep your head up. We all love you:)

Sarah said...

I hate hate hate to hear this. You are far from frumpy my beautiful friend!! Shake it off and keep on doin' your thing!!

Nikki said...

First of all, I don't understand why people are so mean - on the internet, in real life, just in general. I know that as a blogger, we put ourselves out there and therefore people think they can be terrible. I just don't understand why people think they can be so hateful. I hate that someone said something unkind about you, and I hope you don't think about it again. It is funny because in general, I find the blogging community to be a wonderful, supportive group. Unfortunately a lot of people just suck. I think you are fabulous. I feel like giving up on a daily basis just because I worry about not being a good enough blogger. But I enjoy it, so that is what I focus on. I hope you don't let that mean person ruin the rest of your week! Keep up the amazing work!

Nikki
thefashionablewife.com

Cassie @ I Can Still Laugh said...

Girl! If you're frumpy then I'm the Empress of Frump. You are gorgeous and spectacular!

Holly said...

I have no idea why we tend to focus on the one negative rather than the hundreds of positives. Maybe because they are so hurtful and it is human nature to want to be liked and loved and uplifted. And it only takes one small hole to deflate a balloon. It's takes so much more energy to blow one up. When I read your posts and see your photos - I see a person with a beautiful soul. You, Shanna Banana Muffin, are a delightful, inspiring and beautiful human being inside and out.

Niki {Glossy Blonde} said...

Shanna I'm so sorry. How awful and completely uncalled for. I don't understand why people do this, but I am like you and I would have a hard time letting it just roll off my shoulders as well. People who do this, though, are unhappy in their own lives. It's cliche, yes, but it's true that they need to make other people feel bad in order to make themselves feel better. Kanye West said, "Love your haters, they're your biggest fans..." and it's so true. People who really hate you will not even take the time to read or comment on your blog. Just remember, you are a beautiful person, inside and out, and we all see it through your honesty and openness every single day. That was long. :)

Tiffany said...

First of all, you do not look like you have gained weight! Secondly, WHO IS IN PEOPLE STYLE WATCH AND WHO IS NOT?!? Exactly. I got your back, boo.

Tammy Jo said...

I'm so sorry that you have to deal with that. I love your reading your blog and totally wish that you could come live with me and pick out my outfits on the daily :).

OccasionallyAJ said...

"Sticks and stones will break my bones, but names will never hurt me" I mean, really?! I feel like sometimes I would rather someone throw a stick at me, not call me names because names hurt SO much more! But YOU are fantastic and screw the one person that tries to take you down. Good for you for deleting the comment, its your blog and you need to promote the best YOU. *Cheers to Shanna!*

-AJ
OccasionallyAJ.com

Janna Renee said...

Yes, I'm reading all the way back to where I left off, because I haven't gotten to comment on all my fave blogs lately. I try not to overwhelm with too many comments, but I want to KILL this BIATCH. You are one of the nicest people on EARTH, so how dare this person talk to you like that. Plus, you are PERFECT. If you gained any weight I haven't noticed it and no matter what- you are absolutely gorgeous. End of story.

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