Behind The Butter

My Rebuttal

So, I’m wasn’t going to blog again today. Truthfully, I’m actually a pretty sensitive person and as much as I try to not let myself get upset by what others think of me, a lot of times I do. But after a good sob session in the bathroom at the YCMA and then a sweaty workout, here’s what I have to say.

I know I deserve a bunch of what you all said and the only thing I can say is that I’m sorry. I don’t try to be someone that I’m not and you have the right to think and write whatever you like about me. You also have the right to just close your browser and not read what I’m writing if you don’t like what I have to say. It’s a free country and there’s many other blogs out there that might suit your fancy. I’m not trying to win your approval or live my life the way you think I should. I’m just trying to be the best person that I can and live my life to the fullest every day alongside my family and friends. Things happen…it’s life. It’s all part of growing up. At the end of the day, it’s just a bike event, people. A bike event. I’m proud to be a part of it and want to just go out and have a good time.

So, I’m sorry to those who think I’m lazy, a flake, or that I’m selfish… or even a bad pet owner. My best advice to you is to just let it go and take a deep breath. Aren’t there bigger things to worry about? Quite simply you probably should just get a life and stop throwing stones at mine. What you see on the blog is only what I choose to show you. Blogging is my job but it doesn’t define me and sometimes its easy to not see or understand the whole story when you are just reading about a stranger’s life on the internet.

While it’s true that Echelon Gran Fondo did ask me to the event, the choice was completely mine as to what distance I would do. And the bike they “gave” me? I’m actually loaning it. I never intended to keep that bike….it was the plan all along to either give it back to Echelon or donate it. Oh, and I never got “lessons” or “free gear”. All the bike gear came out of my own pocket.

Sometimes its easy to assume things when you don’t know the whole story.

I actually did sprain my ankle five days before my half marathon. You don’t have to believe me though.

Amen.

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  • lori
    May 15, 2010 at 2:52 pm

    you’re awesome

  • Beth
    May 15, 2010 at 2:54 pm

    I’m with Lori.

  • alyssa
    May 15, 2010 at 2:55 pm

    i third that.

  • K
    May 15, 2010 at 2:57 pm

    good for you. i really never comment on blogs but the fact that people would make any sort of attacks on you is totally outrageous. i can imagine that it is difficult not to take them personally, but i hope that you can ignore these people as much as possible. you are totally right – they should get a life.

  • Jil @ Peace, Love & Munchies
    May 15, 2010 at 2:58 pm

    You’re awesome, Jenna. Blogging is just a snapshot of a day, a week – or whatever period of time. I know that no one of my posts recounts every.single.darn.thing. I’ve done in a day. That wouldn’t be a very good read. NO ONE has the right to judge someone else the way it seems you have been judged. These people need to start living their own lives instead of telling you the way they think you should be leading yours. I know I don’t know you personally – but you truly seem like such a wonderful and kind-hearted person. It seems like you are so happy where you are right now – great eats, great wine, great new friends and a boyfriend! No one has the right to try and take away that happiness.

  • Martha
    May 15, 2010 at 2:59 pm

    Ditto! It hurts *my* feelings to think that some of your readers criticize the choices you make. You are incredibly sweet to us and very HONEST, which I appreciate more than anything! Just because you blog doesn’t mean you should sacrifice your health and sanity just to appease someone sitting in front of a computer. You rock, end of story.

  • Susanne
    May 15, 2010 at 3:00 pm

    You are listening to your body and following what is best for you in your heart and for that you are an inspiration to the rest of us. Those who have a problem with it have their own problems they need to deal with and would never have the courage and grace to do many of the things that you do.

  • Jenna
    May 15, 2010 at 3:00 pm

    I’m with everybody else, you are an incredible human being with such zest for life, love, food, happiness, well, you get the point. 🙂 Screw those haters!

  • VeggieGirl
    May 15, 2010 at 3:01 pm

    Just know that I’M 100% on your side. We’ll celebrate and have fun when I come to visit next month 🙂

  • Freya @ Brit Chick Runs
    May 15, 2010 at 3:03 pm

    I’m totally 100% on your side – as Lori said, you’re awesome!

  • Kayla
    May 15, 2010 at 3:03 pm

    I actually had to pause to think back to your last post to figure out what on Earth you would need to respond to. Gesh, people need to start living their own lives and stop getting worked up over yours (and all bloggers really). Only you know what’s true in your life and what’s best for you – so just keep doing what you’re doing!

  • Brandi
    May 15, 2010 at 3:04 pm

    Yay for you!!!

  • whit
    May 15, 2010 at 3:07 pm

    First of all, I think it is completely ridiculous how people find it so easy to say WHATEVER when they are behind a computer screen. The internet makes some people SO STRONG. And opinionated. Gah.

    But, that aside, I think that whatever you do, 60 miles or 100, you are doing this for the right reasons. It is NEVER a good idea to push yourself beyond what you think you can do. I got behind on training with my marathon and what did I end up with? A huge foot and I couldn’t run for two months. Stepping down to the 60 miler sounds like the best option for you, and I say, go for what works for YOU. In the end, the opinions of others DO NOT MATTER. Your health is what matters, Jenna.

    And as for those skeptics that brought up your half marathon? Just put them out of your mind. They don’t deserve to be there.

    Hey, I am applauding you for even still doing the 60 miler, what with how crazy your month has been, with travelling, book writing and moving. Moving alone is an excuse for me to gain ten pounds and drink a case of wine. Alone.

    😉

    Have a great weekend Jenna!

    • Stephanie
      May 17, 2010 at 6:50 am

      I agree with this entirely, especially the anonymity of the internet making it easier for people to say whatever they want. I’ve been seeing that alot on many different blogs.

      Anyway, to Jenna, it’s more important to make sure you don’t HURT yourself…life gets in the way, no matter what best efforts you make. Believe me, 2010 is getting in the way of me training for a 5K (easy right? Yeah, I’ve never run before, and apparently 2010 wants to keep it that way). So the 60 miles? Whoa! Harness the negative comments and use them for fuel – Jay-Z said it well “Motivation, to me, is them telling me what I could not be”. (And my cat is Houdini…so I totally get Dexter’s attempt at escape…btw, they could be twins!)

  • Janice
    May 15, 2010 at 3:07 pm

    I really enjoy reading your blog and stop by every day to read it. I think you are great just the way you are. Who are these people that judge you???? It sounds to me that they are looking for faults in other people lives instead of looking at their own. Please keep blogging.

  • Melanie
    May 15, 2010 at 3:07 pm

    Wow. I’m sorry that people would make such snap judgments. Your blog is wonderful. Keep your head up!

  • Mel
    May 15, 2010 at 3:10 pm

    long time reader but i’ve never commented. i just have to say that you are such a strong person to be able to put your life out there for the world (or world wide web) to see and anyone who has the audacity to critic what you do should be ashamed of themselves. “hold your head up high, gorgeous. they will kill to see you fall” ok? ok. 🙂

  • Erin
    May 15, 2010 at 3:12 pm

    Just think about all of us that love reading your blog, think your an amazing inspiring person..and think 60miles is extremely far and for a wonderful cause.You have done NOTHING wrong. Have fun with it! Think of all the readers that care about you and forget the rest. Smile and know we are all behind you. Erin

  • Amy
    May 15, 2010 at 3:13 pm

    Whoa, I don’t usually read comments so I had to go back and read them when you posted this. I don’t know how you bloggers put up with that nonsense! You bravely put yourself out there every day and they jump all over you in judgment? Real class acts. I’m sure many of us couldn’t even do the 60 mile distance. Good for you for taking on something like that for charity, and for sharing it with us! 🙂

  • loreejo
    May 15, 2010 at 3:16 pm

    I didn’t even read the comments on your last blog as I’m just playing catch-up but I can only IMAGINE. Sheesh. I’ve been turned off my a lot of folks’ behavior in the social media this week—when did we all get so vicious about what is the perfect diet and exercise plan for everyone else?? I might have to take a break on “comments” in general for a while but not reading the great blogs! You’re not perfect and neither am I. Your imperfection doesn’t elevate me nor does it disappoint me, as mine would not affect you either (if, of course, we KNEW each other! tee hee). Your blog inspires me. Your blog encourages me. You are wonderfully YOU! xxoo

  • Abby
    May 15, 2010 at 3:16 pm

    GOOD FOR YOU! Seriously, I can’t believe people freaked about that last post!

    I totally agree. If you don’t like what the blogger is writing, don’t read it. Why do people like making others so upset over such little things!

    Keep your chin up!

  • Lindsey @ Sound Eats
    May 15, 2010 at 3:16 pm

    Oh Jenna, I’m so sorry. I just read through the comments on your last post, and ugh. 🙁 I think a lot of people do expect healthy living food bloggers who post multiple posts a day to share their entire lives with the internet, and that is just not feasible! That’s one reason why I personally started blogging just once a day, and usually only on weekdays now. I’m busy, and there are actually a LOT of personal things going on in my life that I haven’t/ haven’t yet shared on the blog.

    I’m sorry that you had to deal with some of those comments. I understand that everyone has a voice that they’re free to share, but often I just wish people would read through their comment before hitting submit, and read it from the perspective of being on the receiving end.

    Even if we don’t all agree with each others decisions, it does not matter. We’re all human and that inherently deserves respect.

    Focus on the positive comments. Through all the negative ones, there were certainly many more commending your decision, giving you respect and even comments saying that the way you listen to yourself and honor your body is inspiring.

    Keep on being you, and living YOUR life how YOU want. 🙂 xo!

  • Cara
    May 15, 2010 at 3:17 pm

    jenna, I’ve never commented before, and possibly will never comment again, but I have enjoyed you and your writing for years, and it really breaks my heart that some cruel cowardly folk could upset you so. it’s so easy for those who can remain nameless/faceless to judge others. your life is your own my darling girl, and we’re lucky to be given any insight at all. that there are those out in the ether who would abuse that privilege with the sole purpose of being malicious really deeply saddens me. please, never allow the naysayers to dissuade you from sharing anything with your adoring public, be brave and be kind, x

  • Mel
    May 15, 2010 at 3:17 pm

    oh and one more thing…. everyone who donated, should have done so because of cancer research, not because you said you were going to bike 100 miles. so if you said from day 1 that you were biking 60 miles instead of 100 miles, there actually are people who would have said “nahhh, i’m not going to donate” how heartless! jenna, you are amazing and you raised a HUGE amount of money for a great cause and you should be nothing but proud of yourself!

  • Jen
    May 15, 2010 at 3:19 pm

    Only a jealous, terribly unhappy person would criticize you for taking advantage of the opportunity to try something new and help people in the process. I hope they take a look at their own choices to see why they are so miserable and find a way to change things instead of picking on you. I enjoy reading Bout your adventures and hope you won’t let the haters stop you from following your bliss.

  • Elle
    May 15, 2010 at 3:20 pm

    So I rarely read the comments on people’s blogs, and I usually have no interest in doing so (they have no bearing on how I see the blog). So I don’t need to read the comments on your last post or know what they say to say that I’m sorry about how horrible people can be with the anonymity the internet provides. The extent of the entitlement some people feel to judge others is patently absurd to me, and I think everyone should kind of accept that we see small snapshots of your (and other bloggers’) lives– certainly not enough to judge.
    But I’ve been meaning to comment for awhile and tell you how much of an inspiration you’ve been to me, personally. I’ve read your writing for over a year now, and you have honestly been a role model in my life. Not knowing you personally, it might seem strange or presumptuous to say that you (and your writing) have helped me in some rough times in my life, but they have. So thank you for that, and I hope that you don’t let the comments get you down.

  • Sammi
    May 15, 2010 at 3:20 pm

    It’s very hard when being criticized to not defend yourself. I hope you chose to do so not to engage in battle but to offer the few extra details you did in this post that weren’t made aware before. (ie: you paying for your bike gear out of pocket despite the fact the bike was donated to you, etc). Not that you OWE anyone any details mind you, but when you’re soliciting monetary commitment from people, disclosure can be a good thing.

    I’ve got a few years on you and I think, from life lessons alone, that it’s not that you’re lazy, flaky or self-centered, but you’re young, you’re growing and you’re learning. You didn’t lie, but as others have said, it becomes hard to support someone with a pattern. HOWEVER, you didn’t drop out, and you are still donating valuable money to valuable resource.

    To the commenters that said the negative responders are just “jealous”, I’d beg to differ. No on the surface readers know the daily in’s and out’s of Jenna’s life but there are many of us who bend over backwards daily just to make ends meet, much less indulge, and sometimes it can be frustrating to observe what “seems” to be someone getting a lot without having to work very hard. I personally don’t know how much she does or doesn’t work so it’s not my place to judge. I just try to remind myself when I’m eating out at not fancy places, on rare occasion, that my priorities lie as the mom of two young children, and the wife of a deployed service member, and is basically a “no one” (I can’t even get bloggers to answer my questions!) and not a high profile writer whose job is to get things provided them free or low cost for the sake of promotional marketing.

    • Sarah T.
      May 17, 2010 at 12:45 pm

      Such a thoughtful comment!

  • caitlin
    May 15, 2010 at 3:21 pm

    ZING.

  • Amy
    May 15, 2010 at 3:21 pm

    Thank you for being honest and vulnerable to your readers. We support you.

  • Sarah
    May 15, 2010 at 3:22 pm

    Did people really give you a hard time? Crazy. I usually read your blog but don’t comment. Remember, you make decisions that are best for you- it is no one else’s business how far you run, ride, swim or whether you share some, all, or none of your life. Just because you choose to open up parts of life on the blog does not require you to please anyone but yourself. Don’t let the judgers get you down–if they want 100 mile bike inspiration, they can hop on their bikes and do the training. Be happy.

  • Amanda
    May 15, 2010 at 3:22 pm

    I try to pass over other comments, some of them really sour my milk. Why are people going out of their way to be negative? Keep it to yourselves people!

    Jenna: YOU are awesome!

  • Caitlin
    May 15, 2010 at 3:24 pm

    I was 100% not expecting the comments I just read on your previous post. And now am 100% incensed that people seem to think you post your entire life on here. There are too many times in anyone’s life that they don’t feel comfortable sharing, especially to the entire blog world. And now I don’t blame people for withholding, especially after reading some of those nasty comments! It’s like when people ask me how I don’t weigh 300 lbs when I write a baking blog – um, I don’t just eat cookies and cake!

    So really, I hope that you not only ignore what those commenters are saying, you also take some time for yourself. You are incredibly busy, have so many obligations, and yet take such wonderful joy in life – your happy posts make me smile, your sadder posts make me ache that we as readers can’t do more to make things better. Remember that you are a courageous woman. Live life.

  • Mom
    May 15, 2010 at 3:25 pm

    Honey ~ I was not going to comment on this… but, negative people, who obviously never “look in the mirror” themselves should be ashamed. As we know, life is too short. Keep doing exactly what you are doing. You are an amazing, giving young lady who puts herself “out there” every day. Also, everyone should know that IF they donated, they did so for a wonderful cause. They did not donate to you… You take your time, tears, sweat and countless other things to support and give of yourself to an amazing cause. Love You!!

  • Emily
    May 15, 2010 at 3:25 pm

    Go Jenna! You Rock.

    • Melissa
      May 17, 2010 at 10:52 am

      DITTO! You rock … don’t let them get you!

  • Veronica
    May 15, 2010 at 3:27 pm

    Typically I don’t comment on your blog, but I read every single day. I have only commented one other time and that was when your brother died.

    All I have to say is Do NOT let others steal your JOY!

    I would block the people who seem to be so negative. (if that can be done) While everyone has a right to an opinion I don’t believe it shouldn’t be at the expense of being demeaning and mean. THIS IS YOUR BLOG AND YOUR LIFE. You get to live it anyway and write ANYTHING you want! Please do not lose one more tear over someone who is unhappy inside and feels the need to post negative comments. It is their issue not yours!!

    Now, you keep doing what you do. You live and write whatever you want! There are plenty of us who support you, because we are happy for you and want nothing but happiness for you!

  • Katherine
    May 15, 2010 at 3:27 pm

    Only you truly know what is best for you in your life. I read your blog regularly and love how real you are.

    If you hadn’t originally signed up for the 100 maybe you wouldn’t even be doing the 60! So I say way to go and good luck!

  • Margarita
    May 15, 2010 at 3:28 pm

    As a new reader to your blog, I wasn`t quite sure what all the hoopla was about. I read back and realised you cut your bike ride down from 100 miles to 60 miles…. OMG 60 miles is STILL insane. I have trouble doing 40 minutes on a bike at a moderate pace.

    You are doing what`s right for you and it`s still very impressive to do 60 miles!

  • Sharon
    May 15, 2010 at 3:28 pm

    Jenna-
    Sorry about all the negativity coming your way. It’s as though people think you are a blog and not a person-you are not your blog. You simply write one and people get about 1/18th of your life through it and think they know you and what’s more, can judge you. It’s unfair and unkind.

    Beyond that, I just realized you were at the same restaurant my boyfriend and I randomly wandered into last night….and left because I felt it was too loud! We ended up eating a few doors down on 4th street at a Whiskey Bar? don’t recall the name. Quite good food though. We’ll have to try Jackson’s sometime. Oh and I go to the YMCA in downtown SR and love it. Montse has a Tuesday night cardioboxing class that is so much fun. Take care, Jenna.

  • Betsy
    May 15, 2010 at 3:29 pm

    You rock.

    That is all 🙂

  • jaimegirl
    May 15, 2010 at 3:30 pm

    Jenna—it sucks that you cried over some negative posts, but(and i’m not trying to be mean nor am i “slamming” you!) perhaps its good to go through this type of thing before your book comes out, when the reviews and comments will most definitley vary wildly in both positive and negative directions. i say this as a published writer myelf, and you have to be prepared for crappy things people will say. i actually don’t mind it however; i’d rather people have an opposing viewpoint and express it than be silent and indifferent. but thats me, and i hope things are get easier for you.

  • Barbara
    May 15, 2010 at 3:31 pm

    I’m not much of a commenter and the fact is that I never really read other people’s comments. That is why at first I was completely confused by this post. I really had no idea what gave people the idea to be mean.

    Which is why I’ve decided to comment on this post.

    You shouldn’t listen to other people when what they’re saying is coming from a bad place. (I a truly believe that mean comments about some riding 60 miles (!!!!) instead of a 100 cannot come from any other place). 60 miles is a LOT, more than most people could ever do.

    But here’s the main thing I want to say. I read and follow your blog especially because you are honest. I’m not saying other health blog girls aren’t, but you seem to be willing to share more of this part of living a healthy life than most. For me most health blogs fall into 2 different categories a) overweight people trying to learn to live healthy and b) what I call “amateur athletes” (they don’t race professionally, but are very intense and have high goals they set for themselves – either it being a 100mile bike race or a marathon). I fall somewhere in between in my life and you, while still being very athletic, are closer to me than either of those two categories. Your struggles and the fact that despite having some hard times you still manage to remain active and athletic (again, 60 miles!!! is a lot) is what draws me to your blog.

    So to end this long (too long?) comment, don’t change please! I love your blog just the way it is. Honest but still inspiring.

  • Chandra
    May 15, 2010 at 3:33 pm

    sending some love your way, jenna. keep living your life JUST THE WAY YOU WANT TO. 😀

    ♥ ♥ ♥

  • erika
    May 15, 2010 at 3:33 pm

    I normally don’t read your comments, since I use reader… but I wanted to jump over and say I think you’re awesome too. 🙂 Forget the crazy people and thanks for sharing your life with us.

  • Kate
    May 15, 2010 at 3:36 pm

    I don’t really care about the biking thing bc I never donate to bloggers. I don’t come to blogs to donate to charity, I seek out specific charities myself. I know it must be hard to get negative comments but please remember how much blogging has changed your life, for the good. When you asked us all to vote for your California-Goode wine thing, I religiously voted and tried to vote multiple times. Sometimes I don’t think you show that you actually appreciate your readers, blogging seems like a chore to you. I’m not trying to be harsh bc I know people will attack me, I’m just saying how I feel. Also, I feel many bloggers don’t appreciate blogging and then they have technical difficulties and freak out about their blog being messed up, which makes no sense to me. oh well.

  • Jules
    May 15, 2010 at 3:36 pm

    rock on Jenna! Keep being you…don’t apologize, everyone’s a work in progress. That’s what life is 🙂

  • Jackie
    May 15, 2010 at 3:36 pm

    Jenna, I’m so sorry you’ve had to endure such undeserved (and cowardly!) criticism. You are absolutely inspirational and your blog is such a joy to visit! I started practicing yoga because of you! I’ve completed five marathons – though I’ve trained for at least seven – so I can relate to your decision. YOU have to listen to YOUR body and nobody has the right to question you about it.

  • Sarah
    May 15, 2010 at 3:38 pm

    Jenna I’m sorry that this happened to you. I very much enjoy reading every day, and it makes me feel terrible that people would say (write?) those things to you. I’ve been reading for more than 2 years, and I always appreciate your honesty and tell-it-like-it-is-ness. You are doing a good thing by listening to your body and scaling back your race distance. I, along with pretty much everyone else who commented above me, would much rather see you bike less distance then push yourself to injury because it’s what some people think you should do. Good for you! Please take care of yourself, there a lot of people here who care about you!!

  • Claire
    May 15, 2010 at 3:39 pm

    I just read your last post and comments…WOW! I’m not surprised people are like that,but it still stinks.Things happen…so is life.They just need to get over themselves:-)cc

  • Mara @ What's For Dinner?
    May 15, 2010 at 3:40 pm

    Whatever you choose to do is an amazing accomplishment, as many of us wouldn’t even have the courage to start. Well-written and well-said…

  • Mama Pea
    May 15, 2010 at 3:41 pm

    I’m proud of you for speaking your mind and being honest. Chin up…lots of people love and support you!

  • Juniper
    May 15, 2010 at 3:43 pm

    wow. I am so amazed that people can get so upset… their money went to a GOOD CAUSE… and that’s why you are doing the race in the first place. geeze. And 60 miles is still a grand accomplishment.
    Be proud of yourself for who you are and that you are owning Who. you. are.

    : )

    you’re doing great and living your own life. rock on…. !

  • Allison
    May 15, 2010 at 3:47 pm

    Jenna, I just started reading your blog LAST WEEK. 🙂 I volunteered at a water station for a 5k marathon and have just recently (two weeks ago) started the Couch to 5k program…I was randomly searching the internet for misc info about running, and it brought me here. And you know what? I’m so glad it did. I’ve been so inspired by you, and you’ve, if nothing else, given me a whole new way of looking at eating. I’d been eating all kinds of sugar-free crap and trying to cut my calories, when what my body has really wanted all along was to eat real food! I’m not there yet, because my lifestyle is a bit crazy and I can’t really afford it right now, but you’ve opened my eyes to a completely different world. I love to eat and I think that God wants us to enjoy eating, and we need to give our bodies food that comes from this amazing Earth He created…I wasn’t doing either. I’m getting off track (hehehe!) but I basically just wanted to say that I appreciate what you do, and I can’t believe that people would be so hurtful to someone they don’t even (actually) know. You don’t answer to any of them…only yourself and Him. 🙂 Always follow your heart, and keep your chin up, girl! Thanks for the blog…I love it! HUGS!!!

  • Delaney
    May 15, 2010 at 3:47 pm

    AMEN, SISTER!! AMEN! Get a life people! Stop reading the blog if you feel this way..SERIOUSLY!

  • Marisa
    May 15, 2010 at 3:48 pm

    Wow, I am sorry people were so harsh on you! It is really sad that you had to write this post at all. I really love your blog! I also really appreciate you sharing your struggles and being very honest. Keep up the great work!!

  • Sahar
    May 15, 2010 at 3:49 pm

    People really need to get a life. I can’t believe there are people who would attack you because of the choices you make in your life. Don’t let it get you down, it’s really not worth it. I think 60 miles is amazing and I wish I were able to bike that distance now. I think you are so strong and inspiring and you’re right – if some people don’t think so, they don’t have to bring their negativity to your blog. Don’t forget the many people who support you and are super proud of you!!

  • Emily
    May 15, 2010 at 3:49 pm

    People need to stop living vicariously through you, and get off their lazy asses and do something about their imperfections. How in the world can anyone be offended by ANYTHING you do, ESPECIALLY if they don’t know you. Calling you a liar, that’s pathetic. I’m ashamed to be grouped together with your readers. Shame on them.

  • Christa
    May 15, 2010 at 3:51 pm

    Oh, Jenna…I am sorry that there are people being so nasty about your last post. Everyone makes mistakes sometimes and learns from them, people!
    Keep your chin up and know that you still have readers who think 60 miles is great and understand that cats sometimes act weird. 🙂

  • Jasmine @ Eat Move Write
    May 15, 2010 at 3:51 pm

    Oh girl. I actually never read your comments, but I went back and read some. People hate when other people have a good life. It’s just how it is. You’re so young and pretty and out here in California living the dream. People are going to hate you for that. It comes with the territory. My best friend is a professional model. Talk about haters. It’s just how it goes.

    Look at it this way. The more haters you’ve got, the more people are talking about you, and the more people talking, the more people BUYING your book. Get it girl. (I’m a writer, so I know what’s important in life. hehe)

  • Ali
    May 15, 2010 at 3:52 pm

    you are amazing! stay strong and continue to be the incredible inspiration that you have been to so many!

  • M(a different M than the other M!!)
    May 15, 2010 at 3:52 pm

    Jenna ,thanks for being to true to yourself.
    That’s all one can really strive to be in this life.
    Are we on this earth to demonstrate perfection and have every person agree with us?I think not!

    Having your job be so public is going to be a continued challenge with its ups and downs as any public figure has it seems(whether blogging or being an author-both open to critiques it seems….)but somehow I know you can DO this job without knowing you. I guess it’s from “witnessing”(from afar) your incredible and continued path regarding your brother-you have learned at a young age what matters in life.The petty things will sting but ultimately you KNOW your true self even though many see you as young.Personally I think you have an old soul and I mean that as a compliment.

    May your journey always have more joy than sadness and may others who gripe begin to warm to your unique rays of sunshine.
    Hope that knowing you have made a light for many encourage you.

    And I truly wish more happiness to those who come from a place of struggle and sadness.None of us know what kind of things you may be experiencing,and I for one wish the critical sounding people more happiness and light and good fortune.Life can be full of so many incredible painful hardships for so many.May everyone on this blog treat another as you too would like to be treated.
    (yikes,another looong comment!)

  • Diana (mymarblerye)
    May 15, 2010 at 3:53 pm

    Don’t cry about it Jenna! Your blog is popular for one reason: thousands love you! If a handful are haters than do what jay z says “brush that dirt off yo shoulders”!! Let them go elsewhere with their negativity!

  • Jenna
    May 15, 2010 at 3:54 pm

    Jenna I just want to tell you I love your blog and enjoy reading your it daily!
    I think you should just take those comments with a grain of salt and brush them off your shoulder!
    Keop up doing what you are doing and don’t change a thing 😉
    from,
    the other Jenna 😉

  • Alison
    May 15, 2010 at 3:55 pm

    Hang in there, Jenna. I, for one, think you’re amazing. It’s hard to put yourself out there everyday and submit yourself to the possibilty of being attacked by mean spirited people. Live your life and do what’s best for you (and your cat!).

  • Laura Ann
    May 15, 2010 at 3:56 pm

    Ya seriously, what’s the big deal?! Selfishly, I was relieved! :o) I so much more enjoy reading about your life and your good eats! Reading about people’s training doesn’t do it for me. Either way, glad you felt compelled to stick up for yourself! Amen is right.

  • Jenn
    May 15, 2010 at 3:57 pm

    Amen, Sista! If people out there in internet land don’t like it…”click on close.” I’ve actually changed my mind a few times in my 39 years, and I’m sure I will again. Props to you for standing up to those without a life!
    Jenn in Fort Wayne

  • Becky
    May 15, 2010 at 3:58 pm

    No, I’m sorry, but I don’t agree with this at all. If you live in a world where none of your real-life friends ever challenges your ideas or questions your judgment, that’s sort of ridiculous, and they aren’t helping you out at all. It’s completely justified for your readers to respond to your previous post with questions or challenges to what they perceive to be a disappointment. I wish you had friends who had pushed you to train harder to encouraged you to go on that bike ride instead of reading all day, or that your boyfriend had sent you out to train the day you guys laid in the hammock all day, or whatever. That’s what good friends do to each other. They push them to be better. I just re-read everyone’s comments and nobody really flamed you. They just expressed their disappointment. I’m sorry that moved you to tears, but maybe that reflects your own disappointment in yourself, more than any of your readers actually acting inappropriately.

  • Adelaide
    May 15, 2010 at 3:59 pm

    “I urge you to step out into the real world, get a full time job and pay your own bills and see what life is really about.”

    Oh, Bec, is THAT what the real world is all about? THANK you for letting Jenna in on the meaning of life. All I can say is: YAWN.
    Jenna sweet, chin up and move on. I’ve never commented before but I must tell you that along with many others, you have inspired me to better myself. As a fellow gal who loves to be on the move, travel, sample life and experience as much as possible in these young and boundless years of ours, I can tell you that you should feel no need to justify your lifestyle. Your only obligation is to those who love you and yourself, above all else. I hope this doesn’t leave a sour taste for too long, frankly these few judgmental commenters seem like something out of a boring version of Mean Girls.

  • Nicole P
    May 15, 2010 at 4:00 pm

    Only in this world will people have negative things to say about someone doing something for charity. I think 60 miles is amazing and everyone needs to be realistic. I am sure everyone has set a goal before and had life happen, right? You are better than me because with everything you had going on I would’ve probably only committed to like 10 miles haha (if I could do that). Seriously though, don’t feel bad- it is your life and you have to make decisions on what is best for you- those people are not you and are not in your shoes and have no idea how you feel. Hold your head up and show them that they and their words can and will not break you.

  • Krista
    May 15, 2010 at 4:03 pm

    I love your blog and I’m sorry there are so many jerks out there! Good for you for sticking up for yourself!!

  • Brooke
    May 15, 2010 at 4:03 pm

    Jenna, I almost never comment, but SERIOUSLY, who are they to judge you?! Even if people think nasty thoughts, what is the point of posting it? I have read your blog every day since January 2008 and you have never come across as anything but sincere and honest. Don’t let the meanies get you down!

  • M
    May 15, 2010 at 4:04 pm

    Jenna,
    I’m usually a lurker but I needed to say that I almost cried when I read some of the awful judgements presumptuous commenters made about you. I have struggled with an ED and your blog has taught me to respect and listen to what my body is saying. It’s just ridiculous for people to criticize you for not training enough and/or compare you to other athletes!!! Every body works differently!!! It would be UNHEALTHY for you to force yourself to do hundreds of miles of training if you hated it/ or were physically struggling. That is no way to live… I can tell you from experience. Seriously, if someone regrets contributing to cancer research because you made the HEALTHY choice of listening to your body and will be riding a few less miles, than they are selfish fools. 60 miles is a huge accomplishment and I admire your endurance- your endurance in life. I can tell you’ve been through a lot a pain recently and the endurance you showed in persisting through those dark days is far more inspiring than the endurance it would take to bike 100 miles. Some bodies are just not built for that kind of intensity. You have taught me to be kind to myself and for that I can never thank you enough.

  • M(a different M than the other M!!)
    May 15, 2010 at 4:05 pm

    #62 “Becky”

    I am awaiting one comment from you that has warmth and happiness radiating from it.I honestly would feel very happy to read that.If I read a blog that ticked me off,well I wouldn’t read it any more….what draws you so much to this blog ?
    I mean this in the sense of community not sarcastically.I wish you good things not bad.

  • allison
    May 15, 2010 at 4:05 pm

    You’re AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!! You’ll be great next weekend!!!! 🙂 🙂 🙂 Meow to Dexter!!!

  • Dinah Soar
    May 15, 2010 at 4:06 pm

    Well kiddo, when you put yourself out there you’re going to get shot in the foot some of the time, so expect it. Consider the negative comments–in case their is a grain of truth in them–and learn what you can, if anything. Forget the rest and live your life to the best of your ability by the grace of God. That’s really all any of us can do.

    And never forget..people can forgive a lot, but when their pocket book is involved they tend to get riled a lot faster. I didn’t donate but if I had, I wouldn’t care as long as the money got to the organization. I assume every dime you raised goes to the sponsor doesn’t it? So, I see no real failure as far as that is concerned.

    And I say kudos to you for leaving up the negative comments. In our society it is becoming increasingly more difficult to say anything if it is not considered to be ‘nice’. Discourse is important and being civil in the process is equally important. But refusing to hear any negativity stifles discourse. You deserve a lot of credit for taking this all on the chin..and leaving it up here for the world to see.

    I’ve read your blog for several years now and will continue to read it. God bless you and grow in grace.

    And to those who responded negatively, I think they did it civilly and I appreciate that. I hate it when there is ugliness and four letter words and nastiness. Your readers are a higher caliber of people evidently…for they spoke their mind and even though they were upset with you they were all in all pretty decent. Though I did think saying you were a bad cat mom was a bit much…but I understand that some people treat their pets like human beings. I’m not in that category, though I do love animals. Dexter has a great life thanks to you.

  • M(a different M than the other M!!)
    May 15, 2010 at 4:06 pm

    Ooops sorry that was #65 I was writing to, not 62…

  • Nelly
    May 15, 2010 at 4:07 pm

    Ew. Some of these awful commenters REALLY need to get laid.
    You are awesome, J lady.

  • Jackie
    May 15, 2010 at 4:09 pm

    Becky – Umm, wrong? True friends know what’s good for their friend. If Jenna bit off more than she could chew, a good friend would recognize that and encourage her to dial it back.

    A boyfriend who pushes his girlfriend to go train instead of lay in a hammock when he probably knows that she’s been through a lot of family pain, book stress, and moving stress? Really?

    I agree – expressing disappointment is fine. Many comments did not just “express disappointment”; many comments also judged, reprimanded, and made it seem as if Jenna used the donated money for herself. She is not backing out of an event. She downgraded. I recently signed up for a marathon – I’m telling EVERYONE about it, but if it’s getting to the nitty-gritty and I can’t take it, you better believe I’ll be downgrading to the half.

    Jenna – I am so inspired by how you listened to yourself and your body. Your food philosophy follows this same pattern – you listen to what’s good for you, and not what others expect of you. Please don’t change. 🙂

  • annisa
    May 15, 2010 at 4:09 pm

    I think people would have been more receptive if you had been REALLY honest and said, you know what? I didn’t put the time or the training in, take ownership of that fact, and ditch the self-pity “a couple of tough months” act. Excuses can always, always, always, be made. I believe truthfulness, honesty, and “being real” never requires a three paragraph explanation. Just be you. That said, good luck with the ride you have chosen to do, no more tears, lets all move on.

  • Anna S.
    May 15, 2010 at 4:10 pm

    Those comments were just nasty. The people weren’t donating to YOU they were donating to cancer research. There is something wrong if they are that upset that you weren’t doing the whole 100 miles. And wow about thinking you got free gear and lessons.

    don’t let them get to you. You are an awesome person.

  • Shannon
    May 15, 2010 at 4:10 pm

    You go girl!!!! Like many people have said, I NEVER read comments or post them so I too had to go back and read some of the nasty comments people wrote. 60 miles is HUGE!! My husband is a professional cyclist and I couldnt imagine doing the long rides so you attempting to do it is a HUGE accomplishment. I think my longest ride has been 20 miles. I wish you all the best in the ride. Keep doing what you love!!

    BTW, your blog totally rocks!!!

  • Crystal
    May 15, 2010 at 4:10 pm

    I can’t believe people said anything about your cat getting out. My dog has run away twice and I’m just waiting for the day my toddler makes a break for it in the supermarket. I think people need to chill out, step back and realise that everyone makes mistakes (and that animals are sneaky).

  • Lisa
    May 15, 2010 at 4:10 pm

    Made me feel queasy when I read all those negative comments. Its sad that so many people have so much hate. Really sad.

    Love you blog, keep it coming 🙂

  • Andrea
    May 15, 2010 at 4:10 pm

    Amen. All the people freaking out made themselves look so stupid. They really need to find something important to worry about.

  • sarah
    May 15, 2010 at 4:11 pm

    oh, jenna! i don’t know what is wrong with people. i would in no way be disappointed if i sponsored someone and they biked 60 instead of 100 miles. both are outstanding achievements! do what is best for you!

    i’d hate to see you crash out of exhaustion and injure yourself or something. i have only biked in traffic once- i hadn’t been on a bike in years, my roommate was going too fast, i was trying to keep up with her, went over a bumpy curb, and slam! off i flew, scraping my left knee, right hand, right elbow, and…nose?! impressive, i know. it happened right in front of a church at a busy intersection and my roomie dashed in to get some paper towels to sop up the blood. amusingly, some sweet little old church ladies came out to see if i was ok and insisted on calling an ambulance since i was so pale (i am always pale!) they determined that i must have been in shock. my knee took a month or two to heal, but the humiliation might last forever. 😉

    i think you and your blog are awesome and i just might have to buy your book. good luck with the race and all of your other adventures. you’re inspiring! (i just might be brave like you and go live in australia for a year! how cool would that be?) don’t let anyone get you down!

  • Carrie (Love Healthy Living)
    May 15, 2010 at 4:12 pm

    I think you’re awesome, keep up the good work. You’re your own woman making your own decisions, who can argue with that?

  • Monica
    May 15, 2010 at 4:13 pm

    Did people forget that if they have nothing nice to say, to not say anything at all? Sheesh! Jenna, you are awesome, don’t ever quit the blog. Seriously, at some times, I wish I had your life.
    Have a nice weekend (:

  • Abbey
    May 15, 2010 at 4:14 pm

    Becky, (comment #65) f*ck off. Seriously.

  • Michelle
    May 15, 2010 at 4:14 pm

    Mean people suck, Jenna! I love your blog, it’s my one of my favorites, because 1) your in my neck of the woods (Northern Californai) and 2) you just seem so real, not a perfect eater, just trying to balance it all. I hope you can ignore the crap comments and keep on keepin’ on.
    P.S. I hope to have such a fab relationship with my kids as you have with your mom (and if she is anything like me, she probably wants to hunt down those negative people and kick their tushes. I’m kidding. Kind of). I love when she comments. Hang in there Jenna!!

  • kayla@letslivewholesome
    May 15, 2010 at 4:14 pm

    Jenna, gurl, I am so sorry people are giving you crap. You are thick skinned, and I so respect you and your decisions. Keep up the amazing work. I love you and your bloggy 😀

  • eatmovelove
    May 15, 2010 at 4:15 pm

    Jenna,

    Go back and read the POSITIVE comments – those all the ones to focus on. Remember like anything in life “this too shall pass” – we get knocked down and beat up by other people…but y’know what – they are just people – like your or me – no better.

    Hell, now I can see how some of those major celebrities have breakdowns when they get crapped on or attacked or told lies about.

    I also totally agree about the blog thing. Mine is just a “bite” into actual life.

    I also get sick of reading others’ say “Wow, I’m jealous you can go on a vacation” on others blogs and stuff – …uh, hello , it’s their life, they work hard for it, and they can do it – comments like that make you feel “bad” for living your own life or working for what you have?

    It’s just people wallowing in themselves instead of focusing on their own lives.

    To EVERYONE – a good book that talks about how not to let others affect you – and how what they say and do is THEIR problem is :
    “CODEPENDENT NO MORE”. …seriously , check it out.

  • Amanda
    May 15, 2010 at 4:17 pm

    Jenna, you need to do what is right for YOU, because most of us who read your blog do not even personally know you! Just like celebrities, when we see/read enough about you, we think that we know you. It is not fair to place any judgment, and I still love your blog. Live your life, please keep writing about it, and don’t let the negative few bring you down!!

  • Maggie
    May 15, 2010 at 4:21 pm

    Jenna,
    To add to the loud loud support out there for you, I want to say that we’re all proud of you and that those dishing the hater-ade should just cool it. It’s much wiser that you are actually listening to your body (hence the “Live” part of Eat, Live, Run) and doing the still incredibly impressive 60 miler. Good luck and Rock on!

  • rosy
    May 15, 2010 at 4:23 pm

    #1–I am so disappointed that people are saying that reading and relaxing on a hammock are negative things! Why must you feel guilty for earning and enjoying free time? Because other people won’t allow themselves the same luxuries?
    #2–Whahaaaa? Those comments were ridick! Maybe if people donated and felt duped, I’d understand, but how are you to know? To the rest: it’s a FREE BLOG! Which brings me to
    #3–How were you to know who donated when every single person with negative comments was anonymous? Hate if that’s what you know, but own it, people. The same way Jenna owns living her own life, and enjoying her own life.
    #4–As always, haters to the left.

  • Jo
    May 15, 2010 at 4:26 pm

    Jenna,
    I’m a long time reader as well. And part of the reason why I love your blog so much is because you are a *real* person with *real* challenges and struggles. Nobody is perfect, we are all trying to find our way in this life. I feel lucky that you allow us to have a glimpse into your world. I will never forget when your brother died. You showed such unbelievable strength and grace.
    And, I am not a runner or a cyclist and can not imagine training for such an event. I’ve also never been to California and love to see all the pictures and descriptions of such a beautiful place.
    I will continue to read your blog and look forward to your book as well. Thanks for being authentic.
    Jo

  • Jo
    May 15, 2010 at 4:26 pm

    I am so so so angry that people gave you such a hard time! At the same time I really respect your reply. It is your life and I think you made absolutely the right decision, but even if I didn’t I would respect that it was your decision to make 🙂 I think you are a person who is wise beyond your years and knows how to look after yourself and the people around you, treating people with respect is something I think some of those negative commenters need to take a lesson in.
    Chin Up my dear! 🙂

  • Camille
    May 15, 2010 at 4:26 pm

    Aww, Jenna! I didn’t read the comments, but if people have anything bad to say about you biking only 60 miles, they can go elsewhere! You are a superstar for biking 60 more miles than I possibly could!
    Don’t let other people get you down, you are a wonderful person!

  • Kara
    May 15, 2010 at 4:27 pm

    Sorry, but criticism is not always a bad thing. You LEARN from it. I don’t see really anything that was posted that was CRUEL. It’s not about everyone agreeing with or liking everything you do. It’s about learning from your mistakes.

  • Hilary
    May 15, 2010 at 4:28 pm

    It is funny how seriously people take training for endurance events. I am currently training for one, so I know it is physically draining, but it is not the end of the world if you a) do less of it than you expected or b) don’t do it at all. I have also never commented on your blog and had to go back to your last post to see what on earth you were talking about. All I have to say is that it is PATHETIC of people to judge you. This is a personal choice. I am so glad you point blank told them to get a life. While I love reading blogs and yours is up there as one of my favorites (along with ohsheglows and healthytippingpoint), at the end of the day, this is just the INTERNET and people should not let themselves get so upset about someone they don’t know. I donated to your half-marathon training and quite frankly did not care at all that you did not run it (other than feeling bad for you, personally). The money is still going toward a good cause and if some of your readers donated for any other reason than THEY are in the wrong. Furthermore, while I feel like I know you, I of course don’t – and most of your readers don’t, either. So while this may sound offensive (I don’t mean it to be), if they donated to some ‘random’ person on the internet that they didn’t even know … again, their fault.

    You have the most amazing, honest, and entertaining blog. Please keep at it and don’t let this get you down.

  • Jes
    May 15, 2010 at 4:31 pm

    I read Whit’s comment 13… Ditto… I had typed up (basically) the same thing…

    you rock, and are an inspiration. dont let the negativity creep in and give you self doubt! You are riding the race. You moved. You are writing a book. You are in a relationship. And you have a cat (they are a lot of work!! hehe) You know your life best, dont let other people think they know it better then you!!! =)

  • katherine
    May 15, 2010 at 4:33 pm

    I think it ROCKS that you are honoring what’s realistic for you AND that you were able to raise money for such a good cause! One thing I am constantly reminded of in my life is that in order to be true to yourself, you can’t worry what other people will think and when you change your mind about something you’ll never get 100% approval….even if the decision you make it what’s best for you! (Odd how people have a hard time honoring the decisions you make for you!) I’m going through it right now with my decision to move out your way – not everyone is happy for me and that’s ok.
    Also – I am the queen of taking on more than I can handle and learning to back off when I need to honor my body has been a hard, but important lesson to learn. You go girl! And don’t let them get you down. Those 60 miles are going to be tough!!! Good luck and have fun!

  • SN
    May 15, 2010 at 4:39 pm

    I wonder how many people who criticized you for changing to 60 miles have ever actually completed a 100 mile bike race and training themselves. I’m guessing zero. I don’t think people have a right to butt in and criticize your training or your commitment.

    But I do think you should be more sensitive to the fact that many readers have a chip on their shoulder when it comes to people who are more privileged than they are. It makes people begrudge you when you have time, clothes, relationships, vacations, family, friends, looks, etc. that they don’t have. And they might feel that they work harder for those things and “deserve” them more than you do.

    Are they right? No, of course not. No one gets what they “deserve,” they just get what they get. I just think you should understand the way that you come off to these people. Understand why they might feel the way they do about your lifestyle. It’s good business for you to rub your readers the right way. People won’t buy your book or patronize your blog if you don’t sell yourself right.

  • Laura
    May 15, 2010 at 4:40 pm

    Oh Jenna, I literally felt sick to the bottom of my stomach after I read your post- and almost commented- but I don’t have the time, or the reserves to engage in what seem to end up being humungous arguments on your blog. You really, really don’t deserve this kind of treatment- I was going to say that it doesn’t matter how far you ride, you have made a huge commitment, as much as you could have, with your current schedule, and really, all it is is for charity: each year, worldwide, 10.9 million people are diagnosed and 6.7 MILLION people die from cancer. This past week, thousands of families growing tobacco for the Western world have earned just 30p for all their hard work around dangerous carcinogens. The life expectancy of people in Swaziland is just 39.5 years. The rates of HIV ‘orphans’ in Sub Saharan Africa are skyrocketing. Seriously, these are the real issues in the world. Blog readers don’t ‘own’ you, and it shocked me how some of the comments were suggestive of that. Surely the only people you truly have to answer to are yourself, your family and God? I agree with what someone said above: I think this week in particular has been very bad with some vicious commenting going on around the blogosphere which has obviously really upset the bloggers at already emotional times. I totally understand where you are at with your migraines too- my whole life is governed around, and restricted by trying not to get another one + end up in hospital again. You have a very wise and grounded head on your shoulders, and a grace that I don’t think I will ever have! Go and give Dexter a hug!

  • saramariesue
    May 15, 2010 at 4:45 pm

    As an avid reader of your blog I absolutely enjoy reading your posts. You share such a positive attitude in your words and ideas that you’ve inspired me to do and try many new things and to keep going in those times that are rough. Your adventures in life totally make me look forward to doing and creating my own adventures in life ~ and well…to just enjoy life and make the most of it in general. Thank you for sharing everything that you do. You’re a wonderful person that I truely look up to and admire. Thanks Jenna 🙂

  • Tracy
    May 15, 2010 at 4:45 pm

    Love you Jenna!!!! You rock!

  • Sana
    May 15, 2010 at 4:48 pm

    If we can take one thing away from Jenna’s blog it is that life is TOO short.
    So take this day and moment and do something for yourself and spend it with the people that you love.

  • alicia
    May 15, 2010 at 4:49 pm

    I just don’t understand the people that say, ” well, you should expect it since you put your life out there”. When did we stop learning how to be civil? You don’t owe us an explanation on how you’re able to eat out at nice restaurants, or get a bicycle and the gear that goes with it. I think if people were to really go back and read your words they would be able to read between the lines. How many times do you have to tell us that you don’t have furniture, or freeze your credit card? Is it our business anyway? This blog is called Eat, Live, Run- I don’t see “explain in detail” in the title. Why read a blog that angers you? It doesn’t make sense. I’m 37 years old with 3 children, the oldest being 16 (almost 17). Do the math and you’ll understand that I didn’t get to be a kid and live even a partial life (so I understand a morsel of what you’re saying #26), but coming to this blog always makes me smile. I get to indulge in things that I can’t, no different from watching a movie or reading a book. I get to live vicariously through Jenna, and see the life I missed out on living. I love when she just goes for things without doubting herself, but understands when she may have taken her ambitions a little too far. I love her sense of humor, and sense of self. She is the only one really living in blogland, and I can appreciate that. I’m tired of the calorie counting, and being dishonest about food allergies when going out to eat just so some people don’t have to worry about their waistlines. When she’s my age, and has her own children, she’ll have wonderful stories and lessons for them. You can see the kindness in her eyes, and sense the good upbringing in her words. I hope my daughter grows up to be what Jenna is right now- a young woman taking advantage of life as best as she can, with a smile, who occasionally falls and not only isn’t afraid to admit it, but gets back up and keeps going. A woman that also isn’t afraid to put a few nasty people in their place if need be.

  • Staceyhttp://stacey-healthylife.blogspot.com/
    May 15, 2010 at 4:50 pm

    Wow I can’t believe that people would every call somone lazy or fake. Especially after riding on your bike for hours a day, riding 25 -50 miles. You are a super star and don’t let their expectations effect your decisions or your life. You are a wonderful person and have a great blog. There own life probably has some problems and they probably have their own major insecurities. And your a wonderful pet owner, cat’s do what they want.

  • Kinder
    May 15, 2010 at 4:53 pm

    I think 60 miles on a bike when you are not a bike rider (or even if you are) is a heck of an accomplishment! I think that you honour yourself by listening to your body and spirit.

  • Sarah
    May 15, 2010 at 4:53 pm

    You rock Jenna! Keep it up!!

  • Lauren @ Running Examiner
    May 15, 2010 at 4:54 pm

    <3 to you. 60 miles is STILL an amazing accomplishment, and it goes toward an incredibly important cause. Rock on Jenna!

  • B
    May 15, 2010 at 4:56 pm

    maybe people should spend an afternoon in a hammock or drink a little wine….they might be less uptight.

    Whether it’s 5 miles, 60 miles, or 100 miles, the money is going to a good cause.

    You do what you need to do Jenna. As long as you can live with the choices and decisions you make, that is all that matters!

  • Susan
    May 15, 2010 at 4:57 pm

    Wow I am absolutely shocked. I just got caught up on your blog and was amazed at the comments people choose to make on the internet. I bet no-one would judge that harshly in real life- especially to someone who they only know as an acquantance. And that’s what this blog thing is, a glimpse into Jenna’s life.

    We read your blog for inspiration and entertainment. But I (and other readers) have no right to judge your life. Because we do not know the whole story and cannot make a fair judgement.

    Jenna, go and live as you choose, it’s your life. I personally admire the way you have endured despite tradegy and unplanned obstacles in your life. And long live wine- it’s my favorite too!

  • MMiller
    May 15, 2010 at 4:58 pm

    Love you Jenna!!! There are way more positive comments than negative! Karma will come back and bite them in the ass! I don’t think you did anything wrong! I commend you for doing the 60! That is an awesome accomplishment! You don’t have to answer to anyone but yourself and your God! Praying you let the negative roll right off your back…be a duck!

    I really enjoy reading your blog everyday! Thank you!

  • Shannon
    May 15, 2010 at 5:01 pm

    Hi Jenna,

    Just wanted to let you know that all this crap by the a-holes giving you a hard time has inspired me to donate. I think its awesome that you’re racing 60 miles. 100 sounded crazy to me anyway 🙂

  • AB
    May 15, 2010 at 5:02 pm

    Hey jenna!
    let me start out with that I really enjoy your blog. You inspire me to eat and exercise in the best way that I can.
    Let it all roll off like water from a duck’s back and keep bloggin’! You make my day.

  • Kristen
    May 15, 2010 at 5:02 pm

    Bravo! This is one of the best post that I have seen yet from you! I am sorry to see the hurtful comments but I am glad to see that you have put your foot down and are standing your ground! I read your blog daily and you have inspired me in so many ways, and I thank you for being you!

  • Cynthia (It All Changes)
    May 15, 2010 at 5:03 pm

    (((((jenna)))))

    You are you and make no apologies for being you and sharing as you do. I for one and enjoy it and understand that you don’t share all so we can’t understand all. Thank you for just being honestly you.

  • Alexandra Chappell
    May 15, 2010 at 5:04 pm

    Hi Jenna,

    I am a frequent reader of your blog, and while I don’t comment- I just wanted to say how much I love what you write. Thank you for teaching me how to poach an egg 🙂

  • Elizabeth
    May 15, 2010 at 5:10 pm

    I’m completely amazed that people will leave such offensive and rude comments. It’s ridiculous that others will intentionally leave posts that will do nothing but hurt your feelings. With that said, I think you’re awesome Jenna! As your blog readers, you don’t owe any of us an explanation. It’s a privilege for us to be able to read your blog and it’s important that we not forget that you, too, are human. There’s nothing wrong with you changing to 60 miles and I hope you can ignore each rude comment that was left. You go girl!

  • christy
    May 15, 2010 at 5:11 pm

    I never comment on blogs but I wanted to tell you that I have been in your situation – I signed up for a marathon with a charity team, and I raised $1600. And I was miserable. I hated marathon training, it was hell on my body, and it made everything else in my life seem complicated and difficult.

    But I decided that I had a commitment to run the whole thing anyway, since I’d solicited donations. And sure, I made it through the race, but it didn’t feel good and I still feel like I am suffering some ill physical effects from it almost 2 years later.

    If I had listened to my body the way you have, I think my end result would have been much more positive. And all that money I raised? It would have still gone to the cause. Sounds like a win to me.

    It’s hard to be involved in endurance things like this and then feel okay with “just” doing 5Ks and 10Ks or whatever, but it’s your prerogative to change your mind. If that makes you seem flaky to some, well, so be it. You don’t know what’s going to work for you until you try it. When I was your age I was a human pinball. I wanted to do this, then that, no this, no that and changed my mind about every other week.

    The advantage that you have over me at that age is that you totally know who you are. Continue to own that, and everything will be okay.

  • Lisa (bakebikeblog)
    May 15, 2010 at 5:12 pm

    Girl – just keep your chin up – and keep on being wonderful 🙂

  • Emily
    May 15, 2010 at 5:12 pm

    Hey Jenna,
    I absolutely love your blog – it is the first webpage I go to everyday (even before my email or facebook) I think you are great and am thrilled for your sake as a person and my sake a reader than you have a well rounded life that doesn’t revolve entirely around training. So sorry a few negative people are making themselves feel better and messing up your day. Good luck on the race, 60 miles is a ton!

  • Whitney Dargle @ Whitney's Blogtastic Blog
    May 15, 2010 at 5:14 pm

    Jenna, you are totally right! Take a deep breath and move on. You don’t owe these people anything! At the end of the day what matters most are the people you love and who love you. BESIDES, a wise man named Rev. Run says, “Hating is the cowards way to show you that you’re winning” YOU’RE A WINNER, JENNA!

  • Sarah
    May 15, 2010 at 5:15 pm

    I’ve been reading your blog for a while now and have never gotten around to commenting. However, I just wanted to say that I think no matter what distance you are doing, it’s for a great cause and that’s all that really matters in the end. You know your body better than anyone else and in turn, know what you can and can’t handle.
    I thoroughly enjoy reading your blog and can’t wait to see how the race goes! 🙂 Good luck!!

  • Erin (Travel, Eat, Repeat)
    May 15, 2010 at 5:19 pm

    Just riding *any* distance is impressive. Okay, so it’s not your main focus. Why should it be? You don’t have to suddenly become a professional cycler and completely change your life for this race. If you’re not enjoying it, it’s not worth doing.

  • Sheri
    May 15, 2010 at 5:23 pm

    I follow your blog, usually silently, but after reading these comments I have to say that I am shocked. I can’t believe some of the things that people have said. No one is perfect and you have to do what is right for you. I say “f*** them all.” If they don’t like what you have to say they don’t have to read it.

    Good luck with your 60 miles. I think that is awesome (I know I couldn’t do 60 miles on a bike!) And don’t let all this negative energy into your life. You are a good person and you have a lot of people behind you.

  • Ilana
    May 15, 2010 at 5:23 pm

    I’d like to see these people bitchin’ about it ride sixty miles, much less 100. You’re a smart girl and you don’t “deserve” getting that kind of comment from strangers on the web. People amaze me in a bad way sometimes. You, on the other hand, amaze me in a fabulous way.

  • Lindsay @ Summit Sandwiches
    May 15, 2010 at 5:23 pm

    Love this. Way to go, Jenna! I think most of your readers are just grateful that you write about any part of your life at all. We don’t need the WHOLE story….that is for you. How you decide to tell your life’s story is your choice and yours alone. Keep your chin up, and know that most of us adore you/your blog!

  • Erin (Travel, Eat, Repeat)
    May 15, 2010 at 5:24 pm

    also, the charity is getting thousands of dollars either way and THAT is the most important thing.

  • Krit
    May 15, 2010 at 5:24 pm

    3 things –

    1. Your mom said it best <3
    2. Dexter is very lucky to have you as his mom
    3. YOU ROCK!

  • Therese
    May 15, 2010 at 5:28 pm

    Geez. It never ceases to amaze me how other judge people based on the little information they know. All you need to do is to continue doing what you think is right. There’s no point in injuring yourself for this, the charity is still getting an amazing donation, you’ve lot a LOT about yourself in the process and have grown as a person. You’re still doing the race and 60m is disgustingly impressive. I cannot WAIT to hear this race report!

    Keep your chin and keep doing what you’re doing!

  • Austin
    May 15, 2010 at 5:30 pm

    As many of the other posts read, I too am a long-time reader that never posts… but this is just too much. The real take away here is that some of those negative posts were about a lot more than you. So don’t you dare let them get to you. Those folks should consider taking a look in the mirror and ask if hurling insults really made them feel any better. Anyone that seriously feels compelled to say some of the things they did, regarding a personal choice you’ve made, may have become a little too obsessed with this blog and evidently thinks they are as large a part of your life as you must be in theirs… Kind of sad (and maybe a little creepy) if you ask me. So really you should just feel sorry for them. And for the record, 60 miles is no small journey. I’m a triathlete, that’s been forced to ride more than run over the last year due to surgery and can tell you that no matter what the distance, finishing that ride will be an exhilarating experience. The cause the ride supports and the awareness this ride will bring to that battle is the real purpose here. So enjoy every second of this and don’t read those ridiculous comments again. Last thing, if you decide not to give up on endurance – consider the Vineman 70.3. It’s and incredible race and right in your backyard! 🙂 http://www.vineman.com/Vineman_Ironman_70_3.htm

  • Jessica @ The Process of Healing
    May 15, 2010 at 5:34 pm

    A bad pet owner? Seriously?! There are some CRAZY people in this world Jenna. I am so proud of you for doing what’s right for YOU! Who cares what some people may think? You don’t owe them ANYTHING! for every 1 hater, you have SO SO SO many of us who are behind you!

  • Courtney
    May 15, 2010 at 5:38 pm

    I have never met you. Yet –

    I can hear your laugh.
    I can hear your voice in your head while you are typing things like “That is all.”
    I think you have an incredible smile and great friends.
    I wasn’t even reading your blog when your brother died and when I figured it all out, I felt so sad for you.
    I could care less what races you do – but love that you just move in some way.
    I do not care how you spend your days and quite honestly would do anything to have more flexibility in my life – but I did not CHOOSE to live my life that way.

    Right at this moment I have no idea why you would continue to blog. People have been not so nice to you lately and I don’t really see that all too much on other blogs – yet I don’t read a lot of comments.

    I hope you DO continue to blog just because blogs are fun to read and yours is one I read regularly because I love to see how you are maintaing a healthy lifestyle NO MATTER WHAT.

    Best of luck on your event next weekend. You and Cailtin (and the anyone else doing it) will have a blast!

  • Emily
    May 15, 2010 at 5:42 pm

    i think it’s absurd to say that you aren’t bashing or flaming someone simply because you didn’t use any profanity. judging and criticizing others is never acceptable. stating opinions is fine, but at least be educated when forming your opinions. and you can’t be educated enough to form such strong opinions when you see merely a glimpse of someone’s. look in the mirror, haters. only when you are flawless do you have room to judge and criticize others at all.
    oh, and repeat haters, learn when to leave well enough alone. everybody dislikes a hater.

  • Cole
    May 15, 2010 at 5:42 pm

    I can’t believe people would write some of the things that you did. Seriously, making decisions that are right for you is the only thing you can do. No one is forcing us to open up your blog and read it, if they have a problem with anything you’re doing (although I don’t understand why TF they would) they don’t have to read.

    Apparently these negative people think that you just get everything handed to you. But *no one’s* life is perfect and easy, people, everything good and worth it takes hard work and we need to realize that before we blindly judge.

    And the criticisms for the Gran Fondo, really?

    You go girl, don’t let any of this negativity get you down.

  • Michele | aka Raw Juice Girl
    May 15, 2010 at 5:43 pm

    Wow. I am finally “caught up” on all this mess and I actually went back to the previous post and read those comments.

    Sheesh.

    I left a (positive!) comment on that post but just had to say something on this one, too:

    Jenna, each day I find an extra bounce in my step from reading your posts. I love to see fresh posts from you!

    Keep up the awesome work and remember that a LOT of people out there anticipate your posts and are SO proud of you!!!!

    Hugs,
    Michele

  • Kristen
    May 15, 2010 at 5:48 pm

    Jenna, no matter what you do, there will always be people who disagree with your decisions. Absolutely no one but YOU knows what is best for you. Sometimes, I think we all push ourselves a bit too hard. Good for you for listening to that little voice! If anyone doesn’t approve of your life, then they can STOP READING. Besides, I think you’re a great fur-mommy. 🙂

  • ashley
    May 15, 2010 at 5:48 pm

    hey jenna,

    since i started reading your blog (around the beginning of 2010), this is the second time i’ve noticed you felt the need to post a “rebuttal” to negative comments people had towards you. i thnk the first time was related to you going out to eat and enjoying yourself. (obviosuly people’s negative comments were silly in both instances,) though i’m sure you felt hurt by what was said, i don’t think it helps for you to feel attacked and thus, in a way, attack your readers back.

    it gives the impression that you’re not very appreciative of your readers. it’s not the advice you would get if you were dealing with people face-to-face in your life. but, as this is dealing with your position in the public eye (no matter how small), i urge you to consider it. (think of alice blackwell’s comment of what e. roosevelt said about being in the public eye….i.e.-thicker skin). also, part of the issue people probably had was that they felt like you were showing them a bit of disrespect (particularly if they donated) by not fulfilling your part of obligation.

    i am only telling you these things because i really like your blog and it would probably be my favorite if i felt like you respected your readers more. (your meals are often posted late/the next day (yes, i realize you have a life…but other bloggers often prove they’re devoted regardless.) not all meals are posted. sometimes it’s a single picture with little description. blogging comes across as a chore for you. we don’t even know what your boyfriend looks like.) you have a book coming out and you seem to be leading yourself towards being in the public eye more and more. you’re going to be largely unsuccessful with that if you don’t start coming across as more appreciative/thankful to your supporters.

    • Melissa
      May 18, 2010 at 7:50 am

      Ashley, with all due respect, Jenna’s content is FREE and there is absolutely no rule that says she (or any blogger) has to post at a certain time. PLEASE!! And frankly, she doesn’t “owe” her readers anything!!!

    • Melissa
      May 18, 2010 at 7:53 am

      Ashley, with all due respect, neither Jenna nor any blogger who posts FREE content has to post at a certain time or a certain caliber of posts. Her advertisers might care, but certainly her readers shouldn’t … she is free to post when and if she chooses! I don’t see a blog link next to your name … hmmm.

  • laurie
    May 15, 2010 at 5:49 pm

    I really agree with Dinah #73.
    First, let me say that i don’t think i could ever blog because i don’t have thick enough skin–and i am 40 years old! i CERTAINLY didn’t have it at your age! you’ve got guts.

    a couple of things i thought about while reading the comments:

    I don’t think some of the people who criticized you have ever participated in endurance sports–i have and they are unpredictable. we are not robots and sometimes injuries and life gets in the way. we do our best. good for you for listening to your body.

    i also take issue with some of the comments from people who assume that everything is handed to you on a silver platter. my mother used to tell me “everything always seems to work out for you” or “you are so lucky–you get every job you apply for” and my husband and I would just laugh because we both knew that what seemed like “luck” or having a “charmed” life was really just a result of the choices i made and the really hard work i put into them. obviously we don’t see your whole life, and i don’t think people realize how hard writing for a living is!
    one of the reasons i read your blog is for entertainment–it is like i am reading a memoir in real time and i would expect for you to misstep and fail at some things–it wouldn’t be “real” if ou didn’t! i love that you are impulsive and have big dreams–that is what being in your twenties is all about! not all your decisions are perfect. you can’t predict what will upset people or always knwo the “best” thing to do (maybe if you had to do it all over again, you would let readers know right away when you changed your mind), but that is the beauty of the journey in life. you live and learn. and we as your readers learn, too! i think if we pay attention to others’ reactions, we become better at being sensitive to how our actions affect them. we’ll always make mistakes–hopefully just fewer of them!
    there was only one thing that bothered me about what you wrote. i wish i could see less of bloggers whose feelings are hurt (as yours clearly were), lashing back with negative comments. i am ALL FOR you explaining your choice in more detail and letting people know you had the choice to ride 60 or 100 etc, but the “get a life” comment threw me! you are above that!
    oh, and i think it is so sweet your mom commented- your family seems so be so loving and supportive and i glad you have them to tell you that you are kind and generous. i know many readers have told you that, but we really don’t “know” you. it means more coming from your parents!
    i know you had a rough day, but once again your blog has made people stop and think (it certainly made me reflect on all of the comments and the choices i make in my own life), and that is a GOOD thing!! you make a difference in the world!
    🙂

  • Susan
    May 15, 2010 at 5:52 pm

    # 65 – Becky – obsessed much?

  • Kathleen
    May 15, 2010 at 5:52 pm

    I cannot believe that people would attack you over small things like that which a) are none of their business…these are your decisions and you don’t owe anyone an explanation b) there is no reason to make personal attacks over decisions or actions that you make even if people are entitled to their opinions c) I adore you and agree that if people don’t agree or don’t like what they are reading they can just opt out of reading.

    People change. You have gone through life changing experiences recently and I think you are entitled to morph into a new person if you want and we should support you or keep our mouths shut because we all go through changes. I love reading your blog and seeing your growth and changes…please never stop doing what you are doing!

    and I think you’re a great fur mommy!

  • Carol
    May 15, 2010 at 5:53 pm

    Good for you sister friend !!!! I love reading your blog daily – keep being you ! You make a huge difference in my day and many other people too ! You are awesome !

  • Jessica @ How Sweet It Is
    May 15, 2010 at 5:53 pm

    Hope you have a great night, girl. Lord knows you deserve it!

  • Carly
    May 15, 2010 at 5:55 pm

    Hugs to you and Dexter. Don’t let the haters get you down. Your blog makes me smile every day, so thanks for being real.

  • Kelly
    May 15, 2010 at 5:57 pm

    Hi Jenna,
    I’m not a commenter myself, but I read your blog everyday. One of the things I respect about you is that you are human and openly admit that you are not perfect. I find it easy to relate to you because I, too, suffer from the “yes” syndrome. I tend to get super excited about things, and sometimes I don’t take the time to realize that maybe I bit off a bit more than I can chew. But guess what? It’s all part of being human. Everything in life is a learning experience, and that’s how we grow as people. Nobody’s perfect.

    60 miles is a big accomplishment. I wish you the best of luck. You are a very strong person, and you can do it!

  • Lisa
    May 15, 2010 at 6:01 pm

    Jenna~
    Please remember all the people that adore your blog & YOU! Love reading it, & as hard as it is- IGNORE those negative comments! They don’t matter, at all. It’s just negative energy and we don’t need that! LOVE YOUR BLOG! Keep smiling;)
    ~Lisa

  • Ann
    May 15, 2010 at 6:01 pm

    I agree with #75 – the haters need to get laid.

    Chin up Jenna.

  • mee
    May 15, 2010 at 6:05 pm

    Some people live their lives and other people just exist. The ones that are bashing you for having FUN, are definitely people who just exist. THey are too afraid to step out of their comfort zone and live their life.

    Keep living your life to the fullest, you only get one life, so HAVE FUN 🙂 You rock.

  • Carrie
    May 15, 2010 at 6:06 pm

    Ok so I am an “a-hole, hater” and should “get a life” because I disagreed with someone and posted on their blog….

    Some of you are going to have some real problems with the real aspects of life.

  • MB
    May 15, 2010 at 6:07 pm

    Never felt so compelled to comment on your blog until now, Jenna. Thank you for sharing your world with us and being so open. I’m in college and barely ever have time to read blogs or watch TV. I have your site bookmarked so I can click on it daily. It puts a smile on my face. I love food. I love exercise. I find it worthwhile to take a break every now and then to sit back and enjoy your blog, it’s as simple as that. So thanks!

    Keep on keepin’ on.

  • Debbie B
    May 15, 2010 at 6:07 pm

    Jenna,
    These rude people sound INSANE! Just keep being you. Your blog is entertaining to most of us.
    It is true- women looovvve to find fault with beautiful girls. They just do. They may claim they are not jealous of you but they are probably full of shi*
    you seem like a nice sweet girl with good intentions and that’s what matters.
    As far as the cat- how stupid was that comment??!!!
    I have 3 cats and 3 dogs – all rescues. My husband and I cook their meals daily and love and take care of them and yet they would try to escape to run around the neighborhood if they
    could!! That’s just part of their nature!!

  • Carrie
    May 15, 2010 at 6:10 pm

    And I get laid ridiculously often, thanks.:-)

  • Carrie
    May 15, 2010 at 6:21 pm

    Courtney….that was creepy.

  • Kelly
    May 15, 2010 at 6:22 pm

    Jenna,
    Great Post! Keep your head high and your chin up!

  • Erin
    May 15, 2010 at 6:22 pm

    lol @ Carrie

  • c
    May 15, 2010 at 6:24 pm

    Jenna- I am just going to say I will be REALLY disappointed if you stop blogging about your lovely wine tastings, your fabulous dinners, the books you are reading and the fun and spontaneous adventures you seem to be having. I have read your blog for a couple of years now and I have enjoyed reading it even more since your move to CA. Truthfully, I have gotten a little bored of the strict “food journal” type of blog that seems ever more popular. Your balance of passion for living and healthy lifestyle is refreshing.
    — Life is short as you know – so live it the way you want! Don’t change who you are in your heart because of what other’s have to say about it. They are entitled to their opinions I suppose on a blog- but that doesn’t mean you have to take them to heart.
    You are beautiful!
    P.S. When I look back on dating my husband years ago and the fun we had– going out to dinner, wine drinking and crazy days or lazy days together all day on the couch- I am so glad I did that (especially as someone who has always been so routined and type A – I learned to loosen up and live life!) Enjoy!

  • Red
    May 15, 2010 at 6:28 pm

    Wow, I guess I should go to cat owner hell.

    1) My cat fell off a two story deck once
    2) He got out once (he’s an indoor cat, I guess that could be considered cruelty) and I didn’t realize it until the middle of the night and he spent the night on a chair on our neighbors deck…

    I’d tell these people to kiss my ass and get a life. Don’t let it bother you and go have a glass of wine.

  • Katherine
    May 15, 2010 at 6:28 pm

    Good for you. Part of life is knowing your limits and knowing before an event that you can’t do 100, and instead taking on another goal that you can attain takes a lot of self awareness. Thank you for being a real person.

  • kellyO
    May 15, 2010 at 6:28 pm

    Good for you for standing up for yourself! Don’t take the negative/hateful comments to heart. Keep being you! I want to kiss Dexter on the head and give him a hug! Tomorrow is a new day. Don’t let this one hold you back.

  • Liz
    May 15, 2010 at 6:29 pm

    I read the comments on your last post and those people were just downright mean. They can have their opinions on your dropping the mileage and all but to openly call you a “flake” and attack your lifestyle is just rude and they should be ashamed of themselves. It is their choice to read your blog and if they do not like what they see they don’t have to come back. It is YOUR life and you should do what is right for YOU. So, don’t let the negativity let you down. From the few comments I read above, you have a lot of people rooting for you and I proudly stand on that side!

    And by the way, I also saw in the last post some people hating on your reading. Since when is getting hooked on phonics a bad thing???? I totally loved that post you did on your favorite books and I am definitely bringing that list with me next time I go to the library 🙂

  • Alina
    May 15, 2010 at 6:31 pm

    60 miles is a lot, and I think you should be proud of yourself for still doing this very challenging distance, especially after you found that you did not enjoy biking (that IS commitment).

  • Johanna
    May 15, 2010 at 6:32 pm

    60 miles is amazing! I would be tired after 1 lol. Good for you Jenna! 🙂 And I love hearing Dexter stories. I have a cat who looks just like him

  • Kittie Flyn
    May 15, 2010 at 6:33 pm

    Echoing the sentiments of the readers above, I want to be one of many to express my support for you. I’m a long time reader, first time commenter. I was re-reading your recent entries because I thought I’d missed something?! I thought, “Did she suddenly morph into a monster and do something heinous?”. Turns out you were just being human…*GASP*. I look forward to your updates everyday. You’re amazing and an inspiration!!!!!!

  • Sara
    May 15, 2010 at 6:35 pm

    Holy crap, for real? Wow, Jenna, don’t listen to those people. Why would anyone be mad at you for being honest? Because they donated money? I would think that since they donated money to a cause, not to you personally, it shouldn’t matter to them how far you bike. Seriously, don’t worry about them. What you’ll accomplish next week is amazing, and you should be proud of what you’re doing.

  • Lisa
    May 15, 2010 at 6:40 pm

    Hi Jenna,
    I don’t comment often. If people think that because you honour your body and what you think you are capable of that you are somehow a flake then they are messed up. If somebody is in a competition “I ran/walked/swam x distance for charity so I am better than you” they have a problem. You are doing something for a cause. Would it help them if you did the 100k and were hating it and cursing the cause the whole time? Do what you can, with gratitude for what your body can do and thinking about why you are doing it. Don’t make a martyr of yourself for anybody else. All that gives you is a big dose of self pity and no real achievement.
    Love the blog (even if I lurk)
    Need to do the whole olive oil thing tomorrow (blonde turned brunette turned blonde again!)
    xo
    Lisa

  • kt
    May 15, 2010 at 6:40 pm

    Hi Jenna.
    I follow your blog everyday. I just wanted you to know that you inspire me. I think you are very brave to let the world into your life. The fact that you are raising money for cancer to begin with is amazing! It doesn’t matter how far you are biking, all that matters is that your taking time from your life to help others.

    So keep it up! You inspire me to try new things like running, and yoga, and possibly biking!
    Have a great day!
    kt

  • Julia
    May 15, 2010 at 6:42 pm

    I rarely comment, and wasn’t going to here, either, but I just want to add to the discussion.

    The way I see it, when you have a healthy lifestyle blog and make a living (i.e. an income) off of your life, you have to be open to a certain amount of discontent/judgment from your audience. It’s lovely when the comments are positive (as most are!) but some criticism is part of the job.

    I’ve looked through the “negative” posts, and I have to say, other than a couple low blows, they are all mostly honest-to-goodness valid criticism. You mislead your readers about your ride, have barely trained for it, *did* receive free gear without really disclosing so up front and have been very blase/nonchalant about the whole affair. When you’re spending hours on end reading fluff fiction, some people are bound to get in a knot! Not out of jealousy (or maybe out of jealousy, sure, and that’s okay) but because you seem to live on a cloud of naivete, and are very lucky to have others provide for you where you sometimes fall short.

    That’s okay, but when you write something like “Quite simply you probably should just get a life and stop throwing stones at mine.” you are losing readers – the people who provide part of your livelihood. There are many blogs that offer the same look-into-a-lifestyle you do, with positivity, hard work, and honesty (HTP, CNC, KERF, etc).

    I hope next time you make a rash decision, you pull out these posts (criticisms and all) and reflect honestly about the level of commitment it will take, and if you have it in you.

    Take care.

  • Kait
    May 15, 2010 at 6:42 pm

    You are so strong. Good for you and don’t worry about those people, its so easy to say anything when you aren’t actually speaking directly to the person. Don’t let them get you down! I’ve been reading for a long time and I totally understand where you’re coming from.

  • Suzanne de Cornelia
    May 15, 2010 at 6:43 pm

    I didn’t read the comments today–but those who criticized you are revealing their own petty mind and spirit, and are probably jealous. The vast majority of us love your style, admire and support YOU, and are your friends. Don’t let the jerks get you down, Jenna. We love you…go have a nice dinner and forget the jerks–it takes all kinds!

  • Jessica
    May 15, 2010 at 6:46 pm

    Jenna, you’re an amazing amazing woman and I love reading your blog everyday. Please don’t let these hurtful, horrible, insensitive comments bother you! I’m sure they obviously must…but just know that so many of us support you in whatever you do and admire the fact that you’re even DOING THIS RACE! I’m impressed and amazed, that’s for sure! You’re not a flake and you are a lovely person with an amazing heart.

    Hope you’re doing okay and stay strong! xoxox

  • hellen
    May 15, 2010 at 6:53 pm

    I have been reading Jenna’s blog for 2+ years. This is the first time I have actually responded to a post on her blog, or any of the other 6 or so blogs I keep up with. I do not understand this fascination with backing bloggers up 100%. I understand that Jenna is a real person who makes real mistakes, sometimes bites off more than she can chew and has to change plans. Her readers however, are also real people, with real opinions that sometimes differentiate from the large mob that seem to have her back no matter what. We can be disappointed. We can have honest reactions. Unfortunately, when Jenna signed up for a public blog, she signed up with the public. None of the unpopular opinions on the last post were complaining that she was riding 60 instead of 100 miles. It was disappointment to being left in the dark for a month while still soliciting donations. I also understand that this is a charitable cause and that the money is going somewhere wonderful. This should not be overlooked and I don’t feel that her “haters” were upset about that. If the red cross was not up front about all of the details of their fundraisers, it would be called out. This is what happened. And it’s unfortunate that Jenna does not still understand that her readers have a right to their opinions. Unfortunately for her, I feel that she is going to lose readers due to her lack of total truth on these issues. We don’t need to know her deepest secrets. But we deserve to be kept in the loop when we are involved, such as a charitable donation. So I’m sorry Jenna, but you have lost one reader here. And to the supporters who state anyone not backing her 100% must not be endurance athletes let me just leave you with this. I am a 200+ lb girl who just completed her first marathon. People told me to not even try. They didn’t believe me when I started, but I worked my butt off to raise money for a cause I believed in and participate in a wonderful event. I did this while working one full time and one part time job and going to school. So it can be done. Against all odds. I’m sorry Jenna, I just can’t support you

  • sarah shep
    May 15, 2010 at 7:00 pm

    Please don’t forget that you are beautiful, strong, and smart. You’re allowed to cry, too (I know I would), but let it all out and move forward knowing you’re a better person. I admire you.

  • Nicole
    May 15, 2010 at 7:01 pm

    I just saw this on Twitter and thought it was perfect for here:

    Steve Jobs asks: “What have you done that’s so great? Do you create anything, or just criticize others work?”

    My personal feeling is that constructive criticism is useful. But that’s it. If people had said “I donated money to the cause b/c you were riding 100 miles and now I feel misled”, then fine. But to say that you flaked out on training and read too much (is there such a thing?) and all the other negative comments? I’m sorry, that’s just silly. The main people who were posting negatively don’t seem to appreciate being called haters. Guess it sucks to be judged on a 5-second blip of yourself, doesn’t it?

    I vote that you just delete negative, mean comments. Some people say that compromises the integrity of a blog, but most people don’t want to read a bunch of negativity anyway. I know that’s not why I come to the food blog world.

  • Melissa
    May 15, 2010 at 7:03 pm

    i dont understand. if these people have such a problem with your blog, why are they reading it???? noone is forcing them to and if they have such a problem with it, they should stop reading.

  • Elisabeth G
    May 15, 2010 at 7:04 pm

    Hi Jenna,
    I have been a reader of yours for almost 2 years now. I have only commented one other time I believe, and that was when your brother died. I find such inspiration in your blog, and I commend you for the courage you have shown over this past year. After reading this post, I went back and looked at all the comments from earlier – something I never do. I have to say, I was shocked by how insensitive and rude people can be! It is almost comical how intensely upset people can get over someone else’s life. Yes, ELR is your job, but you don’t HAVE to do this. You put your life (or at least parts of it) out on display basically for the entertainment of complete strangers and in return, you deserve some respect. Thank you for letting us into your world each day; I truly enjoy reading your blog, and I appreciate what you do.

    To all those negative commenters: Jenna is an amazing young woman and her choice to do the 60 miles is what’s right for HER. It’s too bad if that makes you upset, you all can seriously go take a hike. There is no place for your criticism here.

  • Veronica
    May 15, 2010 at 7:07 pm

    #169
    Bye-Bye 🙂

  • Mom
    May 15, 2010 at 7:10 pm

    Remember your strength

  • Carol
    May 15, 2010 at 7:11 pm

    #139 Ashley said it perfectly
    You should be more appreciative of your fellow readers since there seems to be so many and more positive comments over negative ones. In your defensive post YOUR statements are quite cruel. Telling your readers who stated negative opinions to get a life and so on.

  • Ashley
    May 15, 2010 at 7:12 pm

    Wow, I just had to do back and read people’s messages, really people need to get a life? What are we in high school? Seriously! I have read your blog for forever. I have always respected your lifestyle, beliefs, attitudes towards things, etc. etc. I also understand that we do not know the whole story of what’s actually going on in your life. GEEZ! Your awesome! I will continue reading your blog….and supporting what ever your choices are….A. BECAUSE YOUR AWESOME, intelligent, beautiful person B. IT’S NOT MY BUSINESS/PLACE to make you feel HORRIBLE. People need to put themselves in your shoes and realize that they are corning you and bullying you….like when they were in grade 5. Because you don’t know who these people are, does not make it right to bully you anonymously. Man I feel like someone just insulted a friend. (that’s how long I have been reading your blog) Okay I’m done now…Your great… ignore the bullies because that is exactly what they are…. Remember what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger : )

  • Sally
    May 15, 2010 at 7:14 pm

    Jenna,
    I am a long time reader who has never commented but I felt like I should after reading some of the comments to your last post. I really don’t understand why people feel a need to be so negative and judgmental. If you don’t like what Jenna is doing or has to say why are you reading her blog? OR taking the time to comment about it for that matter? I guess its easy to tear someone down from the comfort of your home hiding behind a computer screen. Jenna I hope that these comments don’t cause you to hold back or not share as much as you have. Because your ability to open up through this blog is inspiring and I hope that the few negators don’t ruin this for the rest of us who truly appreciate you sharing with us.

  • Suzanne de Cornelia
    May 15, 2010 at 7:19 pm

    I went back and read some of the cowardly flamers. Dexter has a GREAT friend in you and obviously he gets terrific care and love–otherwise he wouldn’t be such a healthy, mellow, cool looking cat that we all love to see!

    Seriously, I was getting steamed reading some of the petty remarks. 60 freaking miles!!! That takes AN HOUR IN A CAR ON A STRAIGHT UNIMPEDED ROAD DOING 60MPH. Are these people stupid or nuts??? And you are doing it for charity not for yourself. You need to do what’s best for your OWN body.

    Am really sorry they upset you Jenna. I heard Tyra Banks say that she gets slammed all the time in print and she had to get tougher skin to be in the public eye–because she realized there are always mean people that will attack–w/o having a clue what they are talking about. They don’t have the guts to put themselves out there and attack people who do. They are belittlers jealous of pretty, striving girl–and need to get a life.

    As the responses above show–99.99% love you. I love Norah Jones and her ‘Those Sweet Words’ please just focus on the majority here that are sweet, positive people and not the mean-spirited ‘awfuls’ that should be VERY ashamed: Hugs Jenna: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UvoXWdVXtjc

  • Cara
    May 15, 2010 at 7:20 pm

    Your Rock! We Love you! Screw the haters.

  • Jes
    May 15, 2010 at 7:20 pm

    #86 – Abbey .. YOU f*ck off. What is YOUR comment bringing to the table? At least becky had an opinion.

    As much as people defend jenna’s decisions, people should be allowed to challenge them too. In the end, they are still her decisions though.

  • Catie
    May 15, 2010 at 7:26 pm

    Hi Jenna. I’m another one who has never commented before–though I read and love your blog basically every day, and have for about the past year. I just wanted to offer my support. You put yourself out here on the internet, voluntarily. It may be a job, but it’s a highly personal job. You let us see into your life, and, surprise surprise, it turns out you’re human. You’ve had a lot to deal with recently, and how you handle that is nobody’s business but your own. Good luck with the ride!

  • Jackie (Peaces of Earth)
    May 15, 2010 at 7:28 pm

    Amen! Training for an endurance event is MUCH harder than you realize when you first sign up!!! It is very hard and grueling and sometimes you realize that whatever you’re doing is just NOT for you. I’m training for a marathon for a charity and many of the others I am training with had to back down from a full to a half. None of the money they raised were a waste!!! You have to listen to your body and do what’s best for you! Good job!

  • Rachael
    May 15, 2010 at 7:32 pm

    I think that Jenna provides the perfect example of living life – not just blogging about it. Her lifestyle and entries of late have been a refreshing departure from just meals, and I personally would like to honor the spirit of risk-taking and experimentation. Like so many others have said, we are all actual people with strengths and flaws, and I’d much rather read the accounts of someone that I occasionally might disagree with (just as I disagree with friends and loved ones once in awhile) then ooh and ahh over perfect training schedules and bowls of oatmeal.
    As a new blogger, I have to admit I’m nervous to write about certain aspects of my lifestyle. I’m different and feel that sometimes eccentricity and not following the crowd leads to negative comments..though at this point, any comments would be nice 🙂
    To all those who write: keep putting yourself out there, but be prepared for feedback of all sorts. I think we’re all strong enough to take it and still be true to ourselves.

  • Emma
    May 15, 2010 at 7:32 pm

    Wow! I have to admit, I dont’ actually READ all your comments because, well, that would be insane 😛 And I’m not sure if you’ll read this one because the amount of comments you get is HUGE so I wouldn’t expect you to!!

    Anyway, I went back and read a few of the comments on your last post … and I was shocked!! I could not BELIEVE how some people were judging you. Would they like to step up and do the 100 mile ride for you?? COULD they?! Probably not!!!! I just don’t understand WHY people are causing such a fuss. You’re still participating, 60 miles is still a huge difference and I don’t see it as ‘copping out’ at all!!!

    I just wanted to say not to listen to those idiots … You’re a smart cookie so I don’t think you would be … but I understand that it’s upsetting. *big hugs*

    Em

  • D
    May 15, 2010 at 7:32 pm

    Jenna,
    You have a lot of comments so I’ll keep this short. You are amazing and do things that I think many people would not challenge themselves to do. So forget about negative people with negative comments and be proud of yourself no matter what!

  • Jessica
    May 15, 2010 at 7:33 pm

    Mean people suck! I love reading your blog – keep doing what you do and say what’s on your mind.

  • Gina G
    May 15, 2010 at 7:34 pm

    i also agree with lori….you are AWESOME!

  • Anne
    May 15, 2010 at 7:35 pm

    Im toats big into quotes..i have them all over my apartment…this comes from the book i read (because YOU suggested it…american wife) Grandma said to little lindy….”What other people think has never made a situation right or wrong”…keep doing your thing and livin your life!! <3

  • Julia
    May 15, 2010 at 7:38 pm

    I’m like one of the other commenters; I had to go back and read the comments on the previous post to understand what this was about. I couldn’t imagine that anyone would criticize so much! The important thing is that you raised money for such an important cause. As a child of a cancer survivor, I appreciate this tremendously! By the way, sixty miles is amazing.

  • Julie
    May 15, 2010 at 7:39 pm

    I regularly read and like your blog a lot. I like you. I defended you in the comments section of EGF months ago where people actually did post really mean comments. I didn’t read the comments on your last post and if they are as harsh as ones on EGF, then I am sorry. People can be unnecessarily mean.

    But I have to be honest, I’m not surprised you aren’t living up to your first commitment for the 100 miles. I feel like (from reading your blog) that you often commit to things and don’t follow through. I remember you saying you were going to go meatless for lent and quit that. And wasn’t there also a triathlon that never happened? It just seems like a pattern.

    I understand needing to know your limits, and I can’t fault you for getting hurt and not doing your half marathon, but now when I read your blog, I kinda don’t believe you are going to finish things that you start.

    Anyway, good luck on your race (event?). I hope you really enjoy it and I look forward to hearing about it. I’m sure you’re going to do great. I know it’s hard, but try not to let the mean comments get to you. Not worth the energy, you know?

  • Linda
    May 15, 2010 at 7:41 pm

    It’s pretty amazing that people would criticize someone they don’t even know. Your posts come across as glamorous, exciting, and fun-filled. I think some of us have you on a pedestal and live vicariously through you. And so when you post something that doesn’t meet other’s expectations – well, that was the trigger for the hurtful posts. But like you said, you post what you CHOOSE to post. Your life could be crumbling around you for all we know. And like someone else posted, you are young and are learning life’s lessons. So pick yourself up sweetheart and get back in the saddle.

  • Emily
    May 15, 2010 at 7:42 pm

    I think the best piece of advice about manners on the internet is to consider saying your comment to the person’s face. If you can’t imagine that, you shouldn’t type it.

    Thank you for speaking up. There is a terrible case of internet rudeness that is not positive for our culture at all. Stay strong–I still enjoy reading the blog!

  • Stephanie
    May 15, 2010 at 7:48 pm

    Dang! I cannot believe what some people said about you dropping a distance on a bike race. I mean come on! You’re riding 60 miles! I’m happy to see you stood up for yourself and told them what to do with their self-righteous and judgmental comments. I appreciate your blog and I’m sure it’s vulnerable to put your life out here for everyone to see every day, but it is encouraging for someone who needs to see other people living healthily to keep doing it. So thank you for what you do! I just can’t believe some people. They need a life or a job. I mean obviously they don’t have enough real problems or stress. I would love to share some of mine with them so they don’t have time to judge people for things that don’t deserve judging! Bless you sister!

  • K
    May 15, 2010 at 7:49 pm

    I’d be flattered people care so much about my life if I were you 😉 Live your life, share with us what you will, and forget the negative people. I’d like to see them bike 60 miles!

  • Nancy in Naples
    May 15, 2010 at 7:49 pm

    I too had to jump in here tonight . . . ‘good riddance’ to readers like the last one. Who needs the negativity? You asked for a donation for a great cause and in return you will participate in a bike ride PERIOD. The point is not in how many miles you will ride, it’s the fact that you ARE participating. Your perks for the job are no one’s business. Please take comfort in the fact that you have received 160+ supportive comments from your readers in a very short amount of time, Jenna. That’s the real story. I also must tell you that if all you wrote about what how much you exercise and only showed pictures of carrot sticks and water, this would be one boring blog . . . please keep on keeping it real like you have been.

  • Brooke @ Brooke's Bites
    May 15, 2010 at 7:50 pm

    I had to re-read this post and your last one to make sure I wasn’t missing something…You would have thought you were taking the donated money rolling in it then going on a shopping spree and eventually running off to Europe with what’s left. 60, 100, 5, 12.5 does the number even really matter? The money’s destination does not magically change because of your decision. The way I see it is it’s money that cancer research wouldn’t have had had it not been for your willingness to put yourself out there and take on this challenge. I would love to know how many other people can say they have even attempted such a feat. I can’t wait to see what you have in store for us next.

  • ari
    May 15, 2010 at 7:52 pm

    becky, ashley, and hellen, amen to you all.

    i feel the same as ashley in that i don’t think you appreciate your readers. jenna, i’ve commented many times asking you questions and you haven’t ever answered one of them. they weren’t even hard questions; you just couldn’t take the time to answer them. i finally gave up after about five times.

    also, i’m a firm believer in if you commit to something, then don’t back out. do what you need to do to get it done. clearly, you didn’t do that. so yeah, you did flake. at least own up to it.

  • Melissa @ For the Love of Health
    May 15, 2010 at 7:56 pm

    I never really delved into the comment section in detail on people’s blogs before but after reading this post, I went back and read the ones in the post you were referring to. Wow! I find it fascinating that people would have such a hate-on for you but still read your blog! I find that pretty pathetic. While I understand the importance of voicing opinions, even if they are not in line with the blogger, some of the comments were from individuals who surely should not be reading your blog if they are just so up in arms with your entire lifestyle or your image.
    On another note, I completely understand about biting off more than you can chew! I feel that way right now in fact! I have a half marathon at the end of the month and after the hellish lifestyle I have been leading due to law school, my training has lagged! Hopefully you and I can get through our respective races!

  • Cheri
    May 15, 2010 at 8:00 pm

    #86 – Abbey, I think you put it perfectly.

  • Joanie
    May 15, 2010 at 8:00 pm

    Jenna-
    I am shocked by the response you got to cutting your race down to 60 miles. Either way, the money you raised is going to cancer research and it doesn’t matter if it is 100 or 60 miles…the money still goes to the same place. Like 60 miles is any less of an accomplishment than 100??

    The people getting down on you are the kind of girls that criticize everyone for everything to make themselves feel better.

    Know that you made the right choice for you and you don’t have to do anything for anyone else…which I am sure you already know!!

    Still a huge accomplishment!!!

    Tell us more about the boy 🙂

  • Alex
    May 15, 2010 at 8:01 pm

    Hey there!

    I just need to say that those haters out there truly the only ones to feel sorry for. Anyone who needs to take the time and energy to bring another person down is not happy with themsevles. That being said, it is not easy to be critiqued and to have it done publically.

    It is only repeating what everyone said, but I think you are amazing, there have been many days when I have been down, or excited and you always bring me up. I look forward to reading your writing, because you are a) as talented writer and I cant wait to read a WHOLE book of yours! and b) you are honest, positive, faithful, and energetic.

    My mom is a writer and she has had to learn to take the critiques with the praise. Perhpas this can be a sign that you are becoming real famous?? hahah,
    anyway keep your head and heart with God and all will be well.

    Much peace,
    alex

  • Andrea
    May 15, 2010 at 8:02 pm

    Jenna,

    This is the only blog I read. I hardly ever comment, however, to answer people who say “real-life-friends” need to step in and challenge you, is pretty much silly. You are challenging yourself to ride 60 miles for CANCER RESEARCH! Any true friend will back you up 100%! I have run a couple of marathons and raised money for some that I have completed and also raised money for some that I just simply did not train properly for/got injured and still the money went to the right place. I said this in my last comment, but those girls are not indurance athletes! Our bodies can only take so much. Plus you have a busy life, and a full time writing career. I will be in line at Barnes and Noble the day your book comes out! I love your blog and totally support you!!!! XOXOXO

  • Andrea
    May 15, 2010 at 8:05 pm

    Jenna,

    This is the only blog I read. I hardly ever comment, however, to answer people who say “real-life-friends” need to step in and challenge you, is pretty much silly. You are challenging yourself to ride 60 miles for CANCER RESEARCH! Any true friend will back you up 100%! I have run a couple of marathons and raised money for some that I have completed and also raised money for some that I just simply did not train properly for/got injured and still the money went to the right place. I said this in my last comment, but those girls are not indurance athletes! Our bodies can only take so much. Plus you have a busy life, and a full time writing career. I will be in line at Barnes and Noble the day your book comes out! I love your blog and totally support you!!!! XOXOXO

  • Kirsten
    May 15, 2010 at 8:05 pm

    Hi Jenna! I have been reading your blog for quite some time, and just had a few things to note about your big event coming up.
    I do not think a lot of people know how hard long endurance events are until you have done them for yourself. I just completed my first full marathon and the training was very hard on my body. People don’t realize these things until you do them for themselves. It doesn’t matter if you are biking 100 miles or 10 miles. The point is that you are biking for a great cause! And I would like to see some of the people putting you down go out and bike 60 miles. That is no easy task. Endurance events are tough, and people need to realize that. It was smart to listen to your body and cut back. You should not be put down for listening to your body, but should be commended for doing something so special for a great cause. I just wanted to wish you luck! =)

  • 'Dee
    May 15, 2010 at 8:07 pm

    Oh, good Gawd.

    Just be happy, Jenna!! Write what you like, do what you love.

    C’mon guys. Go have a happy life. If you don’t have one, go create one. Let others live. Observe if you like, head on down the road if you don’t.

    Find your own peace without trying to take it away from someone else.

    ‘Dee out.

  • Melissa @ For the Love of Health
    May 15, 2010 at 8:09 pm

    oh! and I completely forgot to say- I love your blog! One of my faves hands down! you’re great!

  • Cheri
    May 15, 2010 at 8:26 pm

    Oh, and the cat lady from the previous post, I don’t think I’ve heard anything more ridiculous. Are you kidding me?

  • Mary
    May 15, 2010 at 8:28 pm

    Jenna: I will get a life and not visit your blog again. Thank you for the advice. It’s not like you ever answer your reader’s questions anyway.

  • Anne
    May 15, 2010 at 8:35 pm

    Jenna, I commend you for your strength and for sharing your life. Good for you for choosing 60. No need to hurt your body. You gave it a try during training, especially for not being a cyclist, you made the best decision for yourself. The money is still going to a great cause regardless. I love your blog, you have taught me how to cook eggs. 🙂 Leave all the negative behind and keep going forward. I agree if you don’t have nice things to say, close the browser! Good Luck!

  • Krista
    May 15, 2010 at 8:45 pm

    Jenna,
    I completely understand your decision to move down to the 60 miles race- if you aren’t ready for it, for whatever reason, you should NOT participate in an event. However, I think people would have responded must less harshly had you a) told your readers your decision a month ago and b) just admitted that you screwed up your training. As someone who HAS trained for endurance events (everyone who is disappointed is not a envious, lonely, miserable, non-athlete) I understand the difficulties that go into training for something that takes HOURS to complete. Its tough, we all respect that.
    I’m really concerned with the way that you and your “fans” have chosen to respond to the negative comments. Just because someone disagrees with you or is disappointed because you are not fulfilling a commitment that you made public does NOT mean that they hate you or that they hate themselves. It also does not mean that they do not have a life or are totally and completely envious of yours. Your readers are how you make a livelihood and as a couple of people have pointed out, you seem to really take that for granted sometimes. Telling people to “get a life”… come on, you are better than that. That’s exactly the kind of thing you were upset happened to YOU and yet you just said it your whole readership? You said that blogging is your JOB…well, at my job I get evaluated and sometimes its good and sometimes its not. Sometimes things that I have fallen through on are pointed out and its OK because I am trying to be better. It may hurt my feelings at first but I have to take responsibility for the fact that really its just my own actions (or lack thereof) that are being pointed out. People aren’t making up crazy things about you (except maybe the bad-fur mom comment, that was ridiculous) they are just expressing their disappointment.

  • M(a different M than the other M!!)
    May 15, 2010 at 8:45 pm

    Jenna,
    I would be sad if you had to do this (cause then I couldn’t ever comment!)but you might want to think about having a comment section where only those who HAVE a blog can comment ,rather than including anonymous posters like myself.
    It would be a shame (would cut down comments etc)but on the other hand if it helps remove unnecessary callous and hurtful comments it may be the thing to do for a while just to keep your sanity.
    (I guess on the other hand these debates really bring lots of activity to your blog…but I would hate that at the cost of making you feel crummy.That’s just not right!)

  • MC
    May 15, 2010 at 8:51 pm

    I first read this most recent blog on my phone and raced to get to my computer. This is outrageous. In response to comment #65: Jenna maybe your “real-life friends” do challenge you.. but we the blog readers aren’t really your “real-life friends.” I mean, seriously.. We watch from afar and it’s easy to judge you with the computer between us. Sure, people might be disappointed.. but that money is still going to charity and you’re still biking 60 miles, which may still be past your limit! Speaking of limits, coming from someone who also suffers from severe migraine headaches after working out too hard, headaches alone are a strong motivation to stop pushing yourself beyond what you can do. I sympathize with you whenever you have headaches that last longer than a day. Most people don’t suffer from chronic migraine headaches. Most people only get headaches a few times a year. Whenever I’m laying in the dark and holding my head, I wonder what it would be like to live a life without headaches.

    Sure, you didn’t put 100% effort into training. But you’re young!! Why waste your time on something you don’t love doing?! Like I said previously, that money is going to charity. You’re still participating in the event. But training takes A LOT of time and dedication, and it’s a painful process. Some people can do it, others can’t. I don’t really think it’s fair for people to say “Well Caitlin did it, why can’t you?” Ultimately, WHO. CARES.

    It just really pisses me off when people feel like they can say whatever they want to a blogger. Bloggers put themselves out there for the whole world to see, so thank you Jenna for allowing us into your world. I’m glad you’ve at least kept some things private, like your boyfriend. I’d hate for people to judge him too! Keep your head up. You seem like such a positive person, it makes me sad that people felt the need to tear you down.

  • Julie
    May 15, 2010 at 8:54 pm

    Reading awful things like those people wrote makes me lose faith in the goodness of people. Fortunately, there a lot of other wonderful people like those commenting above so keep smiling! Life’s too short to let negative people bring you down for too long!

  • MC
    May 15, 2010 at 9:01 pm

    Also, i’m not saying we can’t be critical or have an opinion.. i just think there’s a certain way to express those opinions. Plus, there’s hundreds of us and just one of you. If I were a blogger, I would take these comments to heart too. It’s why I haven’t become a blogger myself.

  • Heather
    May 15, 2010 at 9:02 pm

    wow. it makes me sad to read those negative comments. Don’t let them get to you, Jenna. You will rock those 60 miles or whatever you choose to do! Biking 60 miles hardly seems lazy to me at all. Doesn’t even come close! You rock!

  • laura
    May 15, 2010 at 9:03 pm

    I think it’s interesting that one commenter perceives posting one’s meals a day later as ‘disrespectful’ to readers–that seems like taking it a bit far. Or other complaints about minor things. Consider that Jenna provides all this content for free, it does take time, and is work. And throwing out that she doesn’t post pictures of her boyfriend? What does that have to do with her readers? What some readers think Jenna ‘owes’ them or whatever is skewed.

  • Heather
    May 15, 2010 at 9:07 pm

    oh, and if I remember correctly, I’m pretty sure you DID put in the training for the half marathon and would have completed and ROCKED it if it weren’t for the ankle sprain. Jeez people!

  • Nicci@NiftyEats
    May 15, 2010 at 9:07 pm

    It’s so sad when people judge others and make negative comments. I think people forget bloggers are human too. Don’t ever be sorry for anything you do!

  • Krista
    May 15, 2010 at 9:10 pm

    Heather, actually her training pre-half marathon was not great. I think her farthest run was 8 miles 5 days before the race? Doesn’t matter. I choose to believe her, but I can see how others would not.

  • Olivia
    May 15, 2010 at 9:24 pm

    Hi Jenna. I also never comment on the blogs that I read but I just wanted to add to the positive comments. You are a joy to read and I read your blog for the LIFE in it and because I feel like I can relate while also being incredibly inspired by your strength, courage and hard work (because girl, you’re brave and following your dreams which so many of us are scared to do and ps writing a BOOK that’s a pretty ridiculously awesome accomplishment that I’m sure took tons of work). While I agree that it’s ok for people to voice their opinions, there is a NICE way to do it and a lot of those negative comments were not nice or constructive. this is your blog and you have every right to write about what you want. which ps includes not posting pictures of your boyfriend because having a blog doesn’t mean you have to disclose every single little detail about your life. if someone doesn’t like it then there are tons of other blogs to read that might better fit their ideal blog. ok sorry about super long post, I really was just going to say “love your blog, keep doing what you do, and I plan on still reading for as long as you want to post”

  • Megan
    May 15, 2010 at 9:30 pm

    Readers are criticizing? Seriously? Don’t listen to them. You are so right, blogging is just a snap shot of one’s life. Quite frankly, I find it impressive that you do share so much and are so open. I wish I could be more like that. You truly are an amazing person.

  • Frannie
    May 15, 2010 at 9:36 pm

    Hi Jenna,
    I really truly enjoy reading your blog! I check twice a day (obsessive much?). My sister and I are reading through the books you recommended for the summer together. I’m so sorry that other people feel they have the right (some seem to act like it is their duty) to criticize you. Keep the faith!
    p.s. I am very excited to read your book when it comes out!

  • Pat
    May 15, 2010 at 9:36 pm

    I’m not sure why the negative comments. It is not about the distance of the ride. Its about the participation. The word hear is donate. Its a good cause. Its good that you can see the distance thats right for you. I certainly would not call that deception just because you wanted to ride a shorter distance. i think its great that your out there doing what your doing. You go girl.

  • s
    May 15, 2010 at 9:45 pm

    some people have a lot of spare time and an abundance of negativity. forget them…

  • amanda
    May 15, 2010 at 9:56 pm

    i love reading your blog!!! my friend who blogs would call me a unicorn – you know i exist, i come around, but you have no proof because i never comment 🙂 also, i read your blog through google reader, so, like a few other readers, i had to go back to read the comments. those people are cRaZy!!! what is their problem? your blog is uplifting, inspiring, entertaining, and just darn fun. i love reading about and checking out pics of your food and dexter and whatever else you are up to. just wanted to drop a note of my support – next time use that negative energy to make your work out more hard core, they don’t deserve your tears 🙂

  • Gloria
    May 15, 2010 at 9:59 pm

    Hey Jenna! This is the first time I’ve ever commented here, but I’ve been reading your blog for about a year now and I love it to pieces. I just want to say that I think you are absolutely marvelous and it’s a shame that some people are so insecure about themselves that they have to criticize you for how you are living your life. 60 miles is a big deal, and the money is being donated to charity! HELLO! People can be so silly. You are a strong, intelligent, and genuine person, and you have tons of readers who admire you for it… so congrats for being wonderful and having the courage to share your life with us. Take care, good luck with the race!!

  • Kyla
    May 15, 2010 at 10:00 pm

    What is it about the internet that people feel they can be mean to strangers? I’m sorry but bullying was not ok when we were in elementary, middle, or high school and guess what. IT’S STILL NOT OKAY. Jenna appears to be sweet, smart, talented, and honest. She’s also a person, not a super hero. Sometimes I feel like we hold healthy living bloggers to a higher standard because they blog about their healthy living. It is their job. But guess what they’re also people too. We don’t know their full story. Sometimes life gets in the way and we have to deal with it. We shouldn’t compare one person’s experiences to another such as Caitlin and Jenna’s, it just isn’t fair. No two people are the same. I hope you know Jenna that most everyone who reads your blog DOES support you and we DO want to see you succeed. Best of your luck in training for this week. You will race wonderfully at whatever length you decide to do.

  • Maria
    May 15, 2010 at 10:03 pm

    Dear Jenna,
    We love you!
    Sincerely,
    All your friends and family and God

    Cry your heart out, get mad, curse a little, then cry some more… but don’t forget who’s opinion really matters 🙂

  • Brooke
    May 15, 2010 at 10:06 pm

    Jenna, I am a fairly new reader of your blog but I love your blog. You have inspired a whole new approach to food for me. It upset me to see that people were bashing you or saying you were deceiving them about the bike event. That was a huge feat to undertake and 60 miles will be a great accomplishment and most importantly the money donated will still go toward a great cause. So honestly, what’s the difference anyway? If someone donated money for 100 miles and mean it then why would it matter if it was 60 miles? You’re still participating and following through the best of your ability. Keep your chin up, I know words can hurt you to your core.

  • NY Running Mom
    May 15, 2010 at 10:20 pm

    Jenna-

    I don’t usually comment on blogs but really feel that I need to say something (well, 3 things). I will try not to be too long-winded, seeing that you already have a ton of comments:

    1) As a working mom, I don’t read your blog everyday but try to catch it whenever I can. About a year ago I started reading ELR to get ideas on healthy, on-the-go snacks and you always have these tasty, creative things that I can easily make. The internet is a wonderful forum to share ideas and recipes, but at the same time the anonymity of it all makes it too easy for people to say hurtful things to others. Don’t let those women who posted terrible things get to you! Yes, we all have the right to speak our minds but some of those comments are just downright appalling.

    2) A few years back I participated in a charity bike tour and originally signed up for 60 miles (which was a big deal to me because I hadn’t done any long-distance biking). But, just like you, I’m terrified of cars and so would only train on mountain bike trails. On the day of the bike tour, I was doing fine until I wiped out a few miles in. Even though I wasn’t injured too badly, I was pretty shaken up and only finished 30 miles. And my runner’s body was glad I did, because my post-bike recovery was much worse than that after my marathon a year later. You’re doing the right thing by listening to your body, because these endurance events are all about fueling properly, which takes practice.

    3) One last thing I want to say it that, as a mom to a little girl, I hope that I will have the kind of closeness with my daughter that you and your mother share. That you take nothing for granted and truly count your blessings everyday is very inspiring to me. You should be proud of who you are. Keep on blogging!

    -NY Running Mom

  • Erica
    May 15, 2010 at 10:25 pm

    I want your life.

  • Shauna
    May 15, 2010 at 10:28 pm

    I too had to go back and reread your last post and search for what it was that upset some readers so much. I don’t understand why a few of these readers have been so mean. Jenna, I completely understand why you would make this decision. I admire you so, so much, and I adore your honesty. You are an amazing person and I think it’s unbelievable that you can put yourself out there every day, especially considering what can happen when you do.

    You are a delightful inspiration.

  • Taylor
    May 15, 2010 at 10:34 pm

    I HIGHLY commend you for listening to your body and not overtaxing it…I too struggle with over-committing…but don’t always have the confidence to do what’s best for me…and typically, I end up feeling the consequences.

    To make your day a little brighter….In my top 5 blog….I did my top 5 healthy lifestyle blogs…and you came out numero uno!!

  • just sayin
    May 15, 2010 at 10:37 pm

    interesting…i think almost ALL of the negative comments had no linkback or email address and thus make it impossible for Jenna to engage in any sort of meaningful discourse. hmmm, it seems strange that the majority of her critics conveniently don’t have blogs of their own. funny how that works…

  • Rebecca
    May 15, 2010 at 10:44 pm

    Long-time reader, first-time commenter.

    So, you put yourself out there in good faith, and others just want to lob insults at random. I just wanted to say that I enjoy your blog more than a lot of others BECAUSE of you. You are honest, authentic, cheerful, insanely resilient, and really great with a camera!

    I hate that people have criticized your dedication. As though dedication to something that isn’t working is a virtue! It’s not. It’s a flaw. You are wise beyond your years to realize this.

    I really, really hate that people have criticized your lifestyle. This blog is excellent because of your lifestyle. You work very hard. As one poster pointed out, you don’t do so with a full-time job, but with many projects. That is nothing to be ashamed of. I like this blog because it ISN’T focused on traditional modes of success, boring goals, etc. I feel like you have a knack for living, and I was shocked at people’s reaction to that. Why would anyone wish drudgery on someone else?

    People like to throw stones at those who live differently. But I have a secret. It’s the ones who are different that end up changing the world.

    Keep being you.

  • Sarah-Anne
    May 15, 2010 at 10:47 pm

    “i am only telling you these things because i really like your blog and it would probably be my favorite if i felt like you respected your readers more. (your meals are often posted late/the next day (yes, i realize you have a life…but other bloggers often prove they’re devoted regardless.) not all meals are posted. sometimes it’s a single picture with little description. blogging comes across as a chore for you. we don’t even know what your boyfriend looks like.)”

    Maybe it’s just me, but I like reading people’s blogs for their point of view, writing style, whatever…. I don’t think there’s a RULE out there that says you have to post detailed foodie posts or what your boyfriend looks like. At the end of the day, it’s her blog. She can put whatever she wants on it. Honestly, I think these disappointed people are just a few jealous trolls making their rounds on the internet. I have my own personal blog but I want to know exactly what one has to do to show they “appreciate” their readers?? All of this shows that the people who made the lame comments really don’t have a life..

  • Rebecca
    May 15, 2010 at 10:48 pm

    And seriously, enough with the “we pay your paycheck” crap, trollish commenters! You are sad, sad products of the “consumer” mentality. You seriously expect that you should be able to dictate the content of a blog you voluntarily read? You. Are. Ridiculous.

    Leave. Don’t read. I’m sure Jenna will still get along just fine without you.

  • Lillian
    May 15, 2010 at 10:57 pm

    Romans 8:31-35
    “What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. Who is he that condemns? Christ, who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?”

    Nope! Just remember the love you have!

  • CarolineR
    May 15, 2010 at 10:59 pm

    Jenna,

    Long-time reader, very rare commenter here. I just wanted you to know that you are a very inspirational blogger and I just love reading your posts every day for that reason. People just need to back the heck off and worry about their own lives! 60 miles is not exactly slacking in any sense of the word! Thank you for providing thousands with such good reading material, laced with positivity and honesty here on your blog!

  • Lou
    May 15, 2010 at 11:03 pm

    #200 ari
    i also feel similar to what you are saying, i don’t think you appreciate your readers/commenters most of the time, Jenna. i’ve too have commented many times asking you questions and you have never once answered. you leave out the important information that you just suspect everyone should know such as how you make your overnight oats (brand, do you cook them first, ect..) you refuse to comment back to anyone, so why even have the comments open? I also am “AMAZED” myself that so many people are “AMAZED” at the so called “negative” comments. I honestly didn’t see one comment that was a “hater” comment. And telling people to “get a life” is pretty contradictory to what you are writing about here. If you can’t handle any opinions but the ones that clearly have some sort of fan girl syndrome, then you should probably just turn your comments off. The truth hurts sometimes, and no that does not mean I condone people being down right nasty, but I do think it’s ok for people to disagree and be honest.

  • kate
    May 15, 2010 at 11:06 pm

    I am going to take a wild guess here and assume people aren’t mad that she isn’t posting pictures of her boyfriend, it’s probably more on the side of they are annoyed that she constantly talks about him and posts pictures while with him, but doesn’t include any picture of him. It’s just not practical. It’s one thing to keep your private life private, but she clearly isn’t doing that as she talks about him a lot.

    • Melissa
      May 18, 2010 at 8:06 am

      Um, I never post pictures of my husband — out of RESPECT to him. It’s my blog, not his. He’s private … I am not.

  • semihealthy
    May 15, 2010 at 11:52 pm

    Hi Jenna,

    I’ve been reading you blog and think you are a good cat-mom and do your best to update your blog as much as possible. Maybe your next event you train for could be raised by only you or people you personally know so it will mean more for you to train for it and appease some of the readers that feel duped by your previous actions. Love the blog!

  • Kait
    May 15, 2010 at 11:53 pm

    I’ve been reading your blog for about a month or so now but I just want you to know that I adore you. I think you’re such an inspiration and absolutely the cutest thing ever. Please don’t let a few negative comments affect you- I know that’s easy to say and much harder to follow. The sweet comments always fall to the wayside when a few nasty comments interfere– but please remember those of us that love reading your blog. <3

  • Gretchen
    May 16, 2010 at 12:37 am

    Dude – You are 7 shades of AWESOME! I read your blog everyday for A. inspiration, B. something new, C. A plain good time. I have no use for anyone that gives you angry business…whatevs we didn’t like them anyway. You rock and your blog makes me so happy and you seem so cool! Keep being you…I am totally sensitive, as well, so I would be devastated by their crank – a – potomas attitudes…but like I said…you are awesome!

  • Jennifer
    May 16, 2010 at 12:59 am

    Just went back to read those comments; I was totally shocked! All I have to say for this post?: WORD! You totally have it right! Don’t feel bad Jenna! *Hugs*

  • Susan
    May 16, 2010 at 1:01 am

    Jenna,
    I just got out of eight hours of chemotherapy on a Saturday night. I have four more chemo nights to go this week. Then I start up again in three weeks. The cycle has continued like this for a year and a half. I’ve had three major surgeries, radiation, eye infections, ear infections, ear tubes put in, hearing loss to where I’m almost deaf in one ear, nausea, insomnia, bone pain, pneumonia, infections, nerve damage, constant acid reflux, headaches, burned skin, really gross things that I don’t want to mention, midnight trips to the ER, hospitalizations, doctors giving me good news, doctors telling me terrible things, and my two young kids constantly asking me when I will get well. I won’t even go into the mental anguish — the overwhelming fear and the battles with my own mind — as I don’t know how to put that into words.

    My point is: this is cancer. And you know what? I’m one of the lucky ones. I’m alive. I’m healing. I have good doctors. I have good insurance. I have a good support system. I see the positive in all this, I’m grateful for every moment, and I fully intend to still be here when I am an old, old hag. But if EGF raises money to fund research that leads to just one fewer person going through all this, it will have given a great gift to the world.

    Life is too good and too short to be sad about some comments on your blog. I donated to you for EGF. Ride 10 miles or 100; do what is right for you. Take whatever constructive thoughts you you think may benefit you from the comments (even the negative ones), then let the rest roll right off your back. You’re tough. You can do it. Play with Dexter, read fiction, hang out with the boy. This is your life. Relax and breathe.

    Thank you for raising money for cancer research and thank you for brightening my day by sharing your life.
    Susan

  • MelissaNibbles
    May 16, 2010 at 2:43 am

    I can’t see the comments on the other post now and to be honest, I don’t really care. You shouldn’t even respond to negative people. It only feeds their energy. Focus on the positive and stay true to yourself.
    Also, sitting on a bike seat for 60 miles is a pain in the ass…literally. I know I wouldn’t even attempt it. I wish you luck and hope you’re butt isn’t too sore! Get it girl! Also, I heard that you were dating a dude from Top Chef. If that’s true, I think you should have him get you a reality show on Bravo because I would watch the sh*t out of it. I mean, chasing Dexter down a 3 floor walkup is funny. Get it on tv!

  • alana
    May 16, 2010 at 3:23 am

    How come people who criticize (respectfully) need to “get a life”, but the people who write ridiculously long comments about how wonderful and inspiring Jenna is, and how she is practically their long lost BFF, don’t need to “get a life”?

    Most of the “negative” comments have stated how much the reader likes the blog! I enjoy this blog and read all the time, and I think that riding 60 miles is a great accomplishment. But, does that mean I’m not allowed to voice a differing opinion? I think readers were misled about this event, and I think that admitting that training was not going well would have been a wonderful and humble decision that readers would have appreciated more than a last minute, defensive confession.

    I agree with what others have said about an apparent lack of respect for readers. Questions, comments and polite criticisms go unanswered, and then readers are rudely told to “get a life”? And condenscendingly given Jenna’s “best advice” to just “take a deep breath”?

    People can still enjoy this blog, but have a unique opinion at the same time. I think it is the groupies that need to relax.

  • karen
    May 16, 2010 at 3:53 am

    This is the fist time I’ve felt compelled to comment on your blog. But, good for you. I read the comments on your other post and honestly, people seem jealous. Jealous you have a book deal, or can go to nice restaurants or have time for your pursuits. If people want to comment negatively about something specific, like a perceived lack of transparency on your part, that is fine. But it seemed like some of the negative commenters were just using it as an excuse to bash on you because perhaps they are unhappy with aspects of their own life.

  • AKP
    May 16, 2010 at 4:27 am

    For every happy person that reads your blog and gets inspired to live life drinking wine, eating food, and being active there are 5 others just miserable, waiting for a chance to point a finger! It is easier said than done not to let it bother you, so don’t even try! Use it as fuel to power a fantastic 60 mile ride. I trained for a marathon and made it to a 18 mile run before having to stop training. Honestly I have NO desire to ever do it again- being human gives us free will! Kinda nice!!!

    Have you ever tried riding trails?! My hubby takes me Mountain biking and I MUCH prefer it to road- cars are MEGA scary. I could never go for a 30 mile mountain bike ride (not now anyway) but what you get in 10 miles is super hard, fun, and a great workout just the same!

    Oh- so loved your Mom’s comment! Mom’s always know what to say, and how to say it!

  • Kristin (Cook, Bake and Nibble)
    May 16, 2010 at 4:29 am

    Good for you to come out here and say that.

    Being as sucessful a blogger as you are, it MUST be hard not to listen to all of the negative comments. But I say, take them with a grain of salt. Only you and your personal friends know what is really good for you, and what is really going on with your life.

    You’re right, these negative commenters only see half the story. And they have NO right to speak about your life without knowing the full story.

    Hang in there, you’re stronger than you think!

    xo
    K

  • julie
    May 16, 2010 at 4:31 am

    I didn’t comment on your last post, but I’ll say it now…
    Yes it sucks that you are dropping down and didn’t tell us till now, but you are dropping down, not out. And the money is still going to charity so I don’t know why people are getting into a tizzy over that.
    To tell you the truth, I do the same thing a lot…I bite off more than I can chew and wind up quitting something as a result. I can think of one big example – college. Yeah, I wasn’t ready but I went anyway and dropped out. As I’ve gotten older I try to make more though out and informed decisions, but I still make bonehead moves! It’s called growing up.
    You know what, Jenna? Shit happens and you can’t please all of the people all of the time, you cna only please yourself.
    I know you are a sensitive person, but you gotta let what other people think just roll off you. They don’t know you, they don’t know your life, only you do and you know what’s best for you.
    Please don’t let the negativity affect you anymore. Learn from this and move on. Life is too short to dwell on things that get you down.

  • Lindsey
    May 16, 2010 at 4:38 am

    Hope this make you smile:

    “You keep your heart above your head and you eyes wide open
    So this world can’t find a way to leave you cold
    And know you’re not the only ship out on the ocean
    Save your strength for things that you can change
    Forgive the ones you can’t
    You gotta let ’em go”

    –ZAC BROWN BAND:)

  • eatdrinkandbemerrynyc
    May 16, 2010 at 4:47 am

    And i repeat:

    It must be a lonely and sad life some of these anonymous people live behind a computer screen with their anger and ‘hurt’ over something like dropping down in mileage. The worthy charity will still receive the funds, Jenna will still bike. In the same race. A different mileage. The fact that this matters enough to people ‘personally’ (Jenna’s blog is a great time, but she’s not your ‘friend’) to craft cruel and hateful responses saddens me. Peel yourself from your computer and try to engage yourselves more in the real world. Run, walk, bike, swim…talk to friends, go a restaurant, sit outside and listen to the sounds of nature (or ambulances if you’re me 😉 ) That’s what life is all about. Not 40 less miles. And life is too short to be mean.

    That said, Jenna, ride like the wind 🙂

  • c
    May 16, 2010 at 4:48 am

    I just reread you post “rebuttal” after already posting to you earlier and defending your blog.
    I have to say the only parts that disappoints me about this entire situation is your “rebuttal”— as in “get a life” to your readers and such. I wish you were beyond that, especially with book coming out soon. Any writer or author who is willing to put their writing out to the public, also has to be prepared that not everyone is going to like what they have to say. If someone like John Grisham was criticized for “the same predictable stories” etc. —- I cannot imagine him fighting back to his critics with “well, you all need to get a life”. It just seems like an immature reaction. I am hoping that you just reacted out of pure gut and heart without really thinking through what you had to say.
    Possibly as you mature as a writer and “grow thicker skin” so to speak— you will also be able to respond to your critics with a more gracious and explanatory approach or ignore them altogether- which is most often what writers do- knowing full well that not everything they say can be loved.
    I say this not to hurt you, but to point out another side. I think criticizing your lifestyle choices and your ability as a cat owner is ridiculous —but I also want you to be prepared for what might be ahead as a writer and be careful how you react to your readers who follow you with dedication and anticipation!

  • KatieF
    May 16, 2010 at 5:08 am

    I am afraid that I need to agree with Krista (#213). I did not comment on the last post at all, but I do think that people should have a right to voice a dissenting opinion without being attacked (the worst attacks being being from the fellow commenters). I read through the comments on the last post, and while some of them were downright mean and vindictive, most of the “negative” comments were simply expressing disappointment. This is a situation where the readers have a right to be disappointed, especially if they donated money. People back down or drop out of athletic events all the time for every reason under the sun (full disclosure: I backed out of what would have been my fourth marathon a week before due to a serious injury. I later found out from my doctor that had I not, I could possibly have done serious permanent damage), but to solicit money under the premise of a 100-mile bike race when really you have already decided that you are not going to do it doesn’t really seem honest.
    I also think some people are frustrated–endurance events are HARD, as anyone who has done one knows. They should be taken seriously, with some long and hard thought into the time commitment and effort that training will take. It didn’t come across to me like you did that. Like you said, we don’t see everything, so my perception could be incorrect, but that is still what I perceived.
    I don’t think that people have a right to judge you–we obviously do not know all the details of your life–or to be mean or cruel to you. But I do think that people have a right to be respectfully critical, and that doesn’t make them “haters” or “a-holes” or “need to get a life”. I do understand that you don’t want people to throw stones at your life, but it is your choice what to post, and you need to be willing to hear dissenting opinions on what you choose to post. Like any job, you need to be able to take criticism. If my boss criticized my work and I told him to get a life, I’m not certain that I would still have a job!
    That being said, I still think that a 60-mile ride will be a huge accomplishment! I hope that you can filter out and throw away the messages in the cruel comments, while keeping the nuggets of wisdom from some of the constructive criticism you have received. I wish you the best of luck, both in your race and in learning from this experience.

  • michelle
    May 16, 2010 at 5:17 am

    To quote the best author in history…
    “Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind”. ~Dr. Seuss

  • Caryln
    May 16, 2010 at 5:26 am

    I’ve only been reading your blog for a couple of months, but what those nasty people said seriously made me sick. What sad lives they must lead since they feel like they must make decisions based on what will please others. Do what is good for YOU! I also thinks its funny how they suggest that you have no life but some how they find they time to read your blog and make assumptions about your whole life. I love that I feel like you let us get to know the REAL you and that you are human but other people need to realize that they will NEVER know you or everything about you, so they need to stop acting like they do. Good luck on the 60 miles, I know that I couldn’t do it!

  • Julia
    May 16, 2010 at 5:31 am

    #252, KatieF: You hit the nail on the head, tastefully and honestly. Kudos. Especially this line: “If my boss criticized my work and I told him to get a life, I’m not certain that I would still have a job!”

    Does anyone else thing that Caitlyn HTP is responding to this scandal tastefully as ever? While it’s a war-zone over here, her most recent post runs down her dedicated training schedule, her apprehensions about the ride, and what she’s learned from the process. Had we seen that from Jenna, and that she wasn’t able to continue, I think everyone would be more sympathetic, cheering her on. A lesson in night and day.

  • Britton
    May 16, 2010 at 5:38 am

    You are amazing and such an inspiration for me. I tried to take up biking and rode all of one mile before I gave up. Sixty miles is astounding, as are you.

  • Emmanuelle
    May 16, 2010 at 5:38 am

    Wow, I can’t believe the negative comments you got, this is ridiculous.
    The way people view and judge your life is their problem, not yours.
    Also what does it matter what length you do when it comes to donating for a good cause?
    You are doing the right thing listening to your body, 60 miles is awesome!

  • Jo
    May 16, 2010 at 5:39 am

    At the end of the day there are more important things in this life then blogging+marathons. Even if it is a job.

  • Jessie C
    May 16, 2010 at 6:00 am

    Bit late here, but I just want to put my hand up and say I love your work Jenna, and don’t let the small group of haters get you down. 60 miles will still be an incredible achievement and I am sure there is so much more to your life than what we see on your blog, and it is nobody’s right to pass judgement on you. Keep your chin up girl! xxx

  • mel
    May 16, 2010 at 6:14 am

    you are so amazing! I biked 10 miles yesterday and I can’t feel my ass! haha. Keep rocking on Jenna. You are such an inspiration and people can suck it!

  • Red Head, Yellow Dog
    May 16, 2010 at 6:21 am

    Don’t listen to them Jenna. Do what’s right for you. Live your life for yourself. You have your head on straight and know the right thing to do for yourself. Be grateful for having that ability…many people aren’t as lucky. You’re a wonderful caring person. Not doing a bike race doesn’t change that. I think it’s brave of you to listen to yourself and drop down to what will be the best fit for you when you’re on this stage in front of a ton of people. That takes GUTS. I’m proud of you! Just keep doing your thang 🙂

  • Molly B
    May 16, 2010 at 6:22 am

    People need to get a life. You seem like an amazing, kind person. No one who voluntarily decides to read snippets of your life has any right to judge you. Plus, what’s to judge?!?! YOU ROCK.

  • Rachel
    May 16, 2010 at 6:24 am

    # 213 kristy and # 246 alana, amen! Not everyone who comments is going to agree with the blogger 100%, and I think as long as people are as respectful as possible, it’s ok to express their disappointment. However, I think comments that constantly hound Jenna to post a picture of her boyfriend, or comments insulting her lifestyle or cat-ownership are unnecessary. That being said, everyone makes mistakes, and I think as long as we own up to them truthfully and honestly, there’s no shame in that. I wish you the best of luck with the EGF, Jenna, and I hope you won’t let all the negativity get you down. Like others have said, I don’t think there is a need to say ‘get a life’ to your readers–it only adds to the negativity.

  • Katie
    May 16, 2010 at 6:31 am

    Oh we all love to hate Jenna. And that’s okay. It’s like reality TV stars – we hate them but we keep on watchin’! It’s all entertainment. So people can say what they want on here and it’s just how it goes. I know I read the blog because it keeps me entertained!

  • Erin
    May 16, 2010 at 6:32 am

    First of all, I want to agree that you are awesome. You are a strong, determined woman who seems to enjoy life to its fullest. That may be because you know how fleeting it can be, or it may be the way you have always been. Either way, you need to ignore the negative comments. I applaud you for doing something that you have never done before…especially for such a great cause. God Bless you! 🙂 And, stay positive, keep doing what you do. You inspire me!

  • Krista
    May 16, 2010 at 6:33 am

    ELR fan girls, most of the negative comments are on nothing but the fact that Jenna deceived her readers by claiming to be training for the 100 mile event while having actually already decided to do the 60 miles. She solicited money under the guise that she was putting forth time and effort into her training and people responded to her dedication by donating. Yes, it is for a good cause and the money is still going there, which is great, but people are simply disappointed. No one (other than the cat lady) is judging any other aspect of her life or claiming to know anything about it. The argument that we don’t know Jenna and therefore have no room to express disappointment is ridiculous. Jenna chooses what to put on her blog and people respond to that, sometimes positively sometimes negatively. People make a judgement when they tell Jenna that she’s awesome or that she rocks… don’t you see the hypocrisy in that? You are making a judgement based on what you’ve read but are not allowing others the same right. I understand her decision to drop back, but am still disappointed in how she handled the whole situation. Does that make me not want to read ELR anymore? No. I love reading about Jenna’s life and looking at the delicious foods she enjoys. I WANT Jenna to succeed. This is just a one time thing and it too will pass.

  • Katie Davis @ Pop Culture Cuisine
    May 16, 2010 at 6:35 am

    I think is pretty clear how much support you have based on the fact that this post already has more comments than the negative one did! I think that should prove that all those petty other people need to suck it and re-examine their own lives before they presume to judge and understand someone else’s they likely have never even met. I also rarely read or write comments, but I just got sick to my stomach looking back over some of what they said. I mean seriously, what right and who made them God? I think we all need to think before we open our mouths!

  • Sandy
    May 16, 2010 at 6:41 am

    Hi,
    First of all, I think it is absolutely fine (and commendable) for you to switch to the 60 mile race.
    Second, I can’t blame you for the car fear… even walking on the street I always live in fear of the “drifting car.”
    Third, when I read the comments people posted the only thought going through my mind was this: “Get a hold of yourselves people!”

    I found your blog 6 months or so ago and have been following you and your adventures ever since. I think you should be very proud of the life you are designing. I hope you also know that you are inspiring.

  • Debbie B
    May 16, 2010 at 6:46 am

    For someone having to learn to clip in & ride and actually having the ability to do 60 is amazing to me! Perhaps it was much harder than she anticipated?
    There is nothing wrong with recognizing you are not super human. You went from 0 – 60. That’s a great accomplishment.

    Did anyone think maybe her BF doesn’t want to be exposed? Maybe she is respecting his wishes.

  • Re
    May 16, 2010 at 7:03 am

    Love ya long time, Jenna. You just keep on living life, you have tons of readers who think you’re fantastic, you inspire, amuse, and sometimes make us cry, and apparently make some of us mad. What more coulld a good writer want? 🙂

  • Courtney (Pancakes & Postcards)
    May 16, 2010 at 7:22 am

    AMEN jenna. you rock, girl.

  • Meghann
    May 16, 2010 at 7:31 am

    I’m a long-time reader, but have never posted. I think you are fabulous, and I’m obviously not alone in that. 60 miles?! AMAZING! I’m sure you’ll do great, but more importantly…have fun!

  • Gena
    May 16, 2010 at 7:32 am

    Whoa. I’m pretty appalled by this — especially the comments that veered into senseless, mean, petty bashing of things that had nothing to do with the race.

    The money is still going to a great cause, and you are still doing an amazing physical feat, and — what’s best — you were honest. Congrats on the upcoming bike ride, Jenna!!!

  • Erin
    May 16, 2010 at 7:34 am

    I have to say I’m impressed with your upcoming 60 mile race, especially since it sounds like it’s being fueled by red wine and french fries 🙂 Good luck and kick butt! I think that raising $ for charity is always admirable and you should be proud of yourself.

    I don’t usually comment on your blog, but these I want to say that I think that people should have the right to voice their opposing opinions without being called “haters” or “negative” or receiving a rebuttal from you that basically tells them to go get a life. You’ve made the decision to put your life out there for public consumption, thus you must deal with the reaction to the information you give us. As you yourself said, blogging IS your job, but without readers, you wouldn’t have this job…or the book contract that you’re so excited for. Despite your protestations, the blog does define you to a certain extent because it is a public persona through which you present and therefore define yourself. It’s not all there is to you, but it’s all that your readers know of you. You choose what information to give us and the way you present your life on the blog can make it seem charmed and wonderful. You are inevitably going to be judged on the persona you put forth – it’s human nature – so you need to consider how you present yourself.

    Secondly, I think that the complaints stem from the fact that you are asking people for money but not being upfront about the changes you’ve made to your goals. Had you announced this decision a month ago, I think the reaction would have been different and more supportive. By not being upfront about the change to the distance, people may feel cheated out of their $ (and yes it’s going to a good cause so no one should care, but people are weird about $).

  • brianna
    May 16, 2010 at 7:34 am

    enough with the boss/job comments. yes, bosses can and do criticize, but who named any of you jenna’s boss?! get over yourselves.
    and it’s not that people can’t have dissenting opinions, it’s that most of the people criticizing her have a holier-than-thou attitude and are using the fact that they’re behind a computer screen to be unnecessarily harsh. it’s easy to sit here and pick apart someone’s decision. and what, does it make you feel better about yourself that it wasn’t you? do you feel good that you can pick apart someone else from far away? how do you know that you wouldn’t have done the same thing if in her position?

  • Katalina @ GreenLivingNewYork
    May 16, 2010 at 7:39 am

    Jenna,
    I am very sorry for you, but you are such a smart and fullof positive energy girl o you dont have to pay attention to all these mean comments, and they dont have to affect you, you true reader will never ever say such kind of things to you, and yes there are a lot pf blogs they can follow if they dont like something, and I am sure that they will never challange themselves like you do!! You are an example and an inspiration for many people, motivating a lot of persons on the other side of screen, and my advice to you, never try to please everybody, your job aka your blog is about you so try to be yourself like you do, not to lose yourself just for a positive comment! you are doing a great job girl!!

  • kimmy
    May 16, 2010 at 7:40 am

    I think it is amazing that you cant have a opionion on here unless it is positive. No one is perfect, but one should be able to say what they think.

    Also, what ever happened to the 30 day shred challenge?

  • Michael
    May 16, 2010 at 7:42 am

    Good for you Jenna. I was waiting for you to fire back at all the clowns who feel the need to rip you via a comment page on a blog. I enjoy your writing, I enjoy your honesty and I enjoy the fact that you finally gave those dopes a piece of your mind. Keep up the good work and good luck in the race.

  • Becky
    May 16, 2010 at 7:46 am

    GOOD FOR YOU FOR SAYING SOMETHING. I didn’t comment, but as I was reading all of the mean comments I was completely horrified. If these people are offended by you doing a smaller distance,they need to realize that they should be focusing on their OWN LIVES. I was so disgusted by these adult, mature, grown women berating you for your life decisions because they want to spend 10 minutes reading the recap. You have a life and you don’t run it based upon what will look good on the blog, and people need to understand that.

  • Ava
    May 16, 2010 at 7:54 am

    “My Rebuttal ” Now that’s downright rude! How can you tell your readers to : “take a deep breath’ “get a life” ? So if someone has a negative comment on your new book what will you tell them then? You proboably had about 90% positive comments and a few negative. You can’t expect everyone to think your the greatest. It’s all about balance.

  • nicole
    May 16, 2010 at 7:54 am

    i think the disconnect is that if your opinion about one of your friends was that she was lazy or did something you considered flighty(etc..), it is highly unlikely that you would say that directly to her. it is far more likely that you would call a mutual friend and discuss how your friend was lazy/doesn’t follow through/etc, etc etc. while i certainly disagree with many things my friends have done, i am unlikely to call her lazy or attack their integrity/character to her face. culture today must include internet encounters within the realm of personal ones, even though we are not directly face-to-face.
    i can’t comment on the harshness of the comments made, as they weren’t directed ay me, so saying whether or not they were over the line is presumptuous, but i think it is inconsiderate to use words directly aimed at the strength of someone’s character (ie: lazy) to her “face” (internet or otherwise). i love a good debate, and i think widely varying opinions are fantastic (hey, i’m a libertarian!), but there’s a difference between an opinion and a character assault.
    relatedly, i think there is a huge amount of co-dependency on blogs in general, on the parts of both readers and writers. it is odd to vehemently defend someone you do not know, it is odd to be upset that someone didn’t break down the contents of her day’s food (??? this is very strange from a psychiatric standpoint), and it is also odd that a person feels such guilt for how 1000s of people react to things she does with her own life. it is enough to live with your own guilt, let alone the additional judgement of others.
    an interesting sociological case…

  • CW
    May 16, 2010 at 8:00 am

    Wow. I think this whole thing is ridiculous!! The super nasty comments, your ‘rebuttal,’ the whole thing. It sucks that less than 10 comments on your original post (out of more than 150) made you feel like you needed to write a rebuttal and tell your readers to get a life. That just sucks, and I’m sorry. I hope you notice the HUNDREDS of supportive readers who were all behind you. Forget the FEW who said really bad things and move on! Do your 60 miles and do it proud, end of story. I’m actually just really surprised you chose to stoop to the level of the purely rude comments to write this post. I think even most of the negative comments (again, like, less than 10!!) were just expressing disappointment. I don’t think they were judging your lifestyle. I certainly wasn’t. I hope you appreciate the hundreds of amazing readers you have you have supported you 100% all the way. It just seems like you tend to recognize the few who ruin it all more than you recognize them.

  • Mary @ What's Cookin' with Mary
    May 16, 2010 at 8:05 am

    All I have to say is : It’s your life & peeps need to let you live it. Pardon my french but, ‘eff other peeps opinions of what you do and don’t do. If they don’t like it (reading about it), they can click the little x in the top right corner…

    Cheers to that ?

  • LindseyAnn
    May 16, 2010 at 8:07 am

    Raise your hand if you were perfect and had everything together when you were 24? No one? Oh, put your hand down you freaking liar in the corner.
    Guys, she’s young, she’s gonna make mistakes, or take on more than what she can handle. I know I do, and you know thatyYou did it too, the only difference is we are doing it more or less anonymously while she’s out there for the world to see.
    Also, comparing ELR to HTP, CNC, or KERF isn’t exactly fair. Yes, they’re all excellent wellness blogs that I myself read, but those women are in COMPLETELY different scenarios than Jenna is. I, too, remind myself of that when I’m going through my daily blog reads.
    Jenna, from one imperfect 24 year old to another, thank you and God bless you. I wish you the best of luck next weekend.

  • Chaley
    May 16, 2010 at 8:11 am

    Jenna, I almost never comment or read comments on your blog, but I do read your blog every day. I think you are unique, spunky, and fabulous. Please don’t take to heart what anyone else thinks of you. YOU know in your heart what is right and wrong. Don’t let the negativity of others bring you down. I think you have what it takes to rise above all this. Stay strong. <3

  • M(a different M than the other M!!)
    May 16, 2010 at 8:11 am

    Ok this is has all become a bit bizarre now.
    For those who donated to the cause of cancer research/awareness -bravo! That is a good thing.
    For those who have critiques or nice things to say-no worries, but please do so in a RESPECTFUL and polite manner.
    For those who enjoy this blog-happy reading!
    For those who are irritated by blog-enjoy other blogs please!
    For those who think for all the time we have spent reading comments about this when we all could have spent a bit of time volunteering for a charity…hmmmm,I think we have some people power we could be helping the world with our time instead.
    I like Jenna’s blog,so I read it.
    Just a little respect and politeness please everyone.It can go an awfully long way,whether we agree or agree to disagree.
    Ok…off of this silly computer to live in the real world 😉

  • Sandy
    May 16, 2010 at 8:11 am

    Jenna..You’re a Lovely girl and I’m so sorry that these horrible, rude people have hurt you! You have been generous with your life and have shared with all of us~and then a few bad apples go and do this! I’m sorry..People are very cruel..and judgemental..
    You have brought endless joy to my daily life~and I’m not kidding.I’m a single Mom,have 2 daughter’s 20 and 14..I work very hard, and had become discouraged with life..after making a few changes to my daily life~One of which is reading your blog,exercising,enjoying what I’m eating, instead of always worrying about everything in it.I have been so much happier…so THANK YOU JENNA..you’ve made a difference in my life!!

    ps Love Dexter~I have 4 indoor cats and would freak out if one of them did what he did..glad he was ok!

    take care…Sandy

  • rayshine
    May 16, 2010 at 8:13 am

    I’ve just started reading your blog lately.. And I have to say I give you an extreme amount of kudos for even doing 60 miles on a bike! I love leisure biking, and couldn’t even imagine doing 60 miles. If you don’t want to do 100, you yourself know what your body can handle! Those who are criticizing have no room to do so! =]

  • Meghan@traveleatlove
    May 16, 2010 at 8:14 am

    It’s so easy for people to see tiny snippets of life and to make judgements, especially when they are jealous. Hell, I am jealous of your ability to live in the one place on earth I want to be! What they forget is how you have flourished after experiencing the everyday ups and downs in life, plus one of the worst things that can ever ever happen to a person. . . all the while living publicly, full of grace and human-ness. Moving, breakups, and death are THE most stressful things humans experience, and you have had them all and have been strong and kept living. THAT is a far bigger race than anything you could do on a bike, and I would venture to guess it’s more than most of the negative commenters have experienced this year.

  • M(a different M than the other M!!)
    May 16, 2010 at 8:18 am

    PS Jenna I hope you won’t change your writing due to this silliness.
    Just think of it as “paparazzi pains” or something-fame brings all types of opinions out of the woodwork and I am sure you alone will know which comments are helpful and informative to your life and which ones are ones to brush off and move on.
    Personally I would print out your mom’s comments and post them all around my apt.Your mother is one wonderful mom that is quite apparent and a cherished gift in life 🙂

  • Paige (running around normal)
    May 16, 2010 at 8:22 am

    Amen, sista. I haven’t commented in a while – but just because I’ve been busy. You are still very inspiring to me, because you try things. Many people would only dream of riding in a 60 or 100 mile race, and then it’d stop at the dream. Dream of moving out to California, but never do. You actually DO. If they don’t work out, they don’t work out, but at least you tried. And that truly inspires me.

  • Emily
    May 16, 2010 at 8:30 am

    Jenna,
    I’ve been reading your blog forever now – this is my first time commenting. When I read that you were going to go for 60 miles instead of 100 the thought never crossed my mind that you were any of these awful things people are saying about you. I thought “wow 60 miles.. I can for sure run my mile today” and went on with my business. You have been an inspiration to me. Thanks for sharing your life- I can completely understand why you keep some of it private. People can be horrible – especially when there are no real consequences to how they behave.
    Emily

  • Ann
    May 16, 2010 at 8:37 am

    Hey Jenna,

    “Envy is the mud that failures throw at success…”

  • Ashley
    May 16, 2010 at 8:38 am

    Amen to comment #76.

  • Ann
    May 16, 2010 at 8:45 am

    I agree with #234…I want your life too 🙂

  • Jessica
    May 16, 2010 at 8:52 am

    I did a Century ride years ago. I didn’t train well enough for it either, so you know what I did? I made the ABSURDLY STUPID decision of taking ephedra (this was back when it was legal) during the ride. Sure I made it through the ride, but looking back it was a terrible decision and I’m so lucky I didn’t seriously hurt myself or die. Kudos to Jenna for being intelligent about her abilities rather than relying on a crutch like I did. I can’t even look back with my ride with any sort of pride since it wasn’t all “me” anyway.

  • Jaime
    May 16, 2010 at 9:02 am

    Big hugs, Jenna. <3

  • Ella
    May 16, 2010 at 9:05 am

    Ugh, the things people will say from behind the veil of their computer screen – never would they say them to your face. I’ve said this before and I’ll say it again: write what YOU want, however YOU want, and those who oppose it can just close their browser window!!

  • Emily
    May 16, 2010 at 9:09 am

    Amen sister. Do your thing. I love your recipes, healthy ways, and I totally admit to be jealous of your life and career, but I’m sure there is a lot more to your life than we see. I’m not here to judge, just here to read and learn something new 🙂

  • Michelle
    May 16, 2010 at 9:12 am

    I’m so sorry that people are being rediculously judgemental, that is something that has always scared me about strangers reading a blog of mine. I am glad that you responded the way you did, and i think you have it right. Don’t listen to the NaySayers, just live your life, and do your best. Only you know your intentions, and your heart 🙂
    Good Job 🙂
    Michelle

  • Holly L
    May 16, 2010 at 9:18 am

    The “get a life” comment was wayyy out of line. There is always, always, always a better way to say it. Especially since thats what you expect of your readers, to keep it civil, don’t you?

  • tiffany
    May 16, 2010 at 9:18 am

    Agree with # 213, 246, 251,259, 273, 281, 287

    I read this post (along with your previous post) and while I completely felt like you should have disclosed the information a month ago, I didn’t post anything b/c I KNEW that your groupies would jump on that and call me a jealous hater, who is probably ugly and needs to get laid. I am not sure why we live in a world where there is only ONE correct opinion, one correct way of living.

    Things aren’t as black and white, and I feel that a lot of this situation has blown up due to your rabid ELR fans. I am definitely more bothered by their mindless worship of you, than I am of anything you’ve ever had to say. I definitely take your words with a grain of salt, but some of your fans are so fierce, it’s like you have your own blogland pitbull or rottie.

    I really think that you should have really thought things through before telling your entire readership to “get a life”. I wasn’t bothered enough by your previous post, but now I feel disrespected as a reader. I’ll probably continue to read here and there, but your blog probably won’t ever be one of the first blogs I click on in the morning (which is fine, to each their own).

    I know that you’re friends with Caitlin at HTP, please consider how she treats her readers. I’m sure if this had gone down on her blog, she wouldn’t have told anyone to “get a life”.

    In summary – I am judging you due to your lack of full disclosure, but still think that you’ll ROCK your 60 mi ride. and I think your fans make it really difficult me to find a safe space here.

    (and to the ELR fans – excuse me if I’m “hiding behind a computer screen”. I didn’t realize to have a differing opinion, I’d have to go OUT OF MY WAY and create a blog i’d NEVER use.)

  • Wuh
    May 16, 2010 at 9:26 am

    #40- Right on, Sista!

    I was annoyed to see that more than one of the haters was comparing Jenna to CaitlinHTP. I don’t personally know Caitlin, but I’ve read her blog for a long time and I seriously doubt that she would want people hating in her name. That’s not how she rolls. Endurance events rock- Caitlin rocks for taking them on, and so does Jenna. As a fellow endurance athlete, I like reading about their experiences. Jenna- Please don’t stop blogging. Keep being you! 🙂

  • Laura
    May 16, 2010 at 9:27 am

    I look forward to reading your blog every day Jenna- it makes me smile! Your good and bad experiences only make it more REAL and you, easier to relate to. Sometimes, things in life change….and we can’t do exactly as we planned. But we alter, deal, and make it work, just like you are! But isn’t that all part of life? Keep up the great work and congrats on the race!

  • Kirsten
    May 16, 2010 at 9:35 am

    Everyone seems to think that Jenna blogs for the good of her health – let’s not forget that she is getting paid to blog! Hence, why she does it! Also, the freebies that bloggers get – it’s kind of sickening!

    I have thought for a while that your training seems to be lacking along with your drive. It never seemed like you enjoyed it that much. I have to agree with the people that feel deceived that you never came clean earlier – when you initially made your decision to drop down to the 60 mile ride. I have trained for a full marathon before and I know it takes a lot of hard work and determination to get out there and do it. But when I was doing my training, and feeling like my knees couldn’t take much more, I thought about the people that I was running for. I thought about the people with cancer that I was trying to help. Yes, running 26.2 miles hurt my knees and took a toll on my body – but it was worth it to help a few people. I made a commitment to them when I signed up for the event.

  • Nicole
    May 16, 2010 at 9:42 am

    Hi Jenna – I’m a long-time reader who is delurking to express my outrage over the negative comments you got on your recent post. They were so totally ludicrous that I don’t even know where to begin with it. The criticisms thrown at you were PATHETIC and obviously coming from people who are seriously insecure and jealous of what a strong, hard-working, and truly decent person you are. The way that you’ve handled yourself in the past year, in the face of mourning an unspeakable loss, the way that you embrace life and always see the positive … let me just say that it has been hugely inspirational to me, and to others as well. Brush off the nasty comments, they come from people with empty lives and holes in their hearts.

  • Leila
    May 16, 2010 at 9:50 am

    wow! you are not perfect! and neither are any of your readers!! so why criticize? don’t let all those negative comments get to you! you are awesome and an inspiration!! <3

  • Brooke
    May 16, 2010 at 9:53 am

    i usually check your blog daily. i come here mostly for ideas on meals, snacks and wine (my favorite)…and that’s it. i commend your desire to train for an event and raise money for charity. however, when you solicite donations from your blog and don’t follow through, you have to expect some criticism and disappointment. i for one, could care less if you bike 60 or 100 miles. it doesn’t disappoint me at all. having said that, i didn’t donate.

    what is disappointing to me is coming on here and seeing “my rebuttal” when i was expecting a yummy food post. *sad face* as other’s have said, you have many more supporters then not and this apparent need to lash-out was surprising.

  • Kat
    May 16, 2010 at 10:08 am

    i agree with many readers. i can empathize with your situation. no one is perfect- im 25 and still figuring it all out. i mess up, i can flake out. but i think you have to be careful with being bitey and harsh with your readers like you were in your rebuttal. people may want to express a dissenting opinion about something you do or say, and as long as they do it with respect, you should be able to take that gracefully, and respond in a tone of respect. in fact, even if a few people are not respectful, hold yourself to a higher standard!

    i have been reading for 2 + years since you were in cooking school and i know how much you have gone through- well only what youve posted here. im sure there has been even more in your life. but just know that all of the people who read do “have a life” and they come from a place of their own pain, struggles, frustrations, happiness, and sadness. i think you need to treat your readers as equals in every way- you are not above me, i am not above you. and i think that your readers need to show the same respect in how they express their views- even if they are views of disappointment.

    even though i love your blog, your food pics, your writing style, ive been a little turned off by your tone since you moved to california because it does sometimes sound like you think your life and choices are better/ above those of your readers. my honest opinion is that you need to watch that. i understand you are living in a beautiful place, doing cool things, but just because your readers have different lives, doesnt mean they are any less adventurous, intelligent, etc. youve been lucky to be able to make the choices that many of us are never in the position to make. that being said, of course you have had your share of pain. and, as i said before, i respect that, and others should as well.

    i hope you dont take this as an “offense” but as constructive criticism. and just because i disagree with you at times and dont always like your tone doesnt mean i need to stop reading/ am not allowed to comment. to all those who suggested that, thats ridiculous! all people who put themselves in the public eye need to be able to take the good and the bad. and i can still like a blog while i disagree with parts of it.

    and im not “hiding”. you are welcome to contact me!

  • Clearly Composed
    May 16, 2010 at 10:20 am

    Wishing you all the best in all your adventures. 🙂

  • adrienne
    May 16, 2010 at 10:33 am

    Jenna,
    I have been reading and enjoying your blog for several months. I live in Sonoma County as well and like to hear your take on things to do, places to go and yummy things to eat locally. I don’t care that you aren’t going to ride 100 miles, but 60 (which is about 50 more than I could ride!) and I don’t think you are a bad cat owner and I’m not jealous that you have a great life – I have one too (plus, a lot of that is one’s own perspective).
    I did an Avon breast cancer walk about five years ago and our team of four was so blistered and sore the next day, we skipped day two. But so what? We still raised almost $15,000 for breast cancer research. Isn’t that what it’s all about? FUNDraising? And you did raise funds – in fact you raised over $1500 – much, much more than your teammates.
    My only dig is that I am slightly put off by your rebuttal. An acknowledgement to those who support and congratulated you may have been more appropriate since the vast majority did just that.
    I think you’re great and I will continue to read you everyday. Keep your chin up. This is a growth opportunity and will make you a stronger and better person in the end.
    Adrienne

  • tiff
    May 16, 2010 at 10:38 am

    #312 Brooke “what is disappointing to me is coming on here and seeing “my rebuttal” when i was expecting a yummy food post. *sad face* as other’s have said, you have many more supporters then not and this apparent need to lash-out was surprising.”

    I wholeheartedly agree. When I read “my rebuttal”, I went back to re-read the comments on her previous post – which were still 90% (at the very least) positive. I was expecting to see the majority of the posts flaming her in an unconstructive manner, and it just didn’t come across that way. The fact that the comments still overwhelmingly support Jenna on these two posts simply imply that to be a ELR reader, you are not allowed to have differing opinions. It’s a shame.

  • Tali
    May 16, 2010 at 10:44 am

    I don’t even really see why you have to rebut at all – it’s your prerogative to bike 100 miles or 60 miles or start out with 100 and then go to 60. You don’t owe anybody an explanation. If people are giving you flack for it, well, maybe they should go out and bike 100 miles.
    It would be acceptable in any and all other situations, except that you blog and your life is kindof “public” so people suddenly think they have a right to tell you what to do with your life. Untrue.

  • Andrea
    May 16, 2010 at 10:46 am

    Jenna:

    If you get anything out of this whole debacle, comment #249 says it all. I am glad Susan decided to comment. However far you decide to go for EGF, you know you have the support.

  • Caryln
    May 16, 2010 at 10:48 am

    Oh my gosh people..leave the poor girl alone! Honestly I think she had the right to tell people to get a life because those are the people calling her lazy, flaky, and making personal attacks on her and then calling it “constructive critisism”. Who are you to judge her!? Having an opinion is fine, but maybe you should look in the mirror before you want to pass judgement on someone you don’t even know.

  • sarah
    May 16, 2010 at 10:55 am

    jenna, any chance you will take any time to respectfully respond to the comments made by some of your readers here?

  • Katie S
    May 16, 2010 at 11:03 am

    JENNA ROCKS!

    We love you, Jenna! Do not let those haters bring you down! And listen to your Mom, she’s a wise lady!

  • Lindsey B
    May 16, 2010 at 11:04 am

    #239 creeps me out. Jenna posts blogs more than anyone I read. I miss a few days and I have suddenly missed like 5 posts! And why the hell do we care what time Jenna posts– Do you, #239, really need to know what Jenna had for breakfast THISMORNING? um.. probably not. You can wait until she’s ready and has time to give priority time for her blog. She has always been more than generous with as much personal information she feels comfortable giving, and at the appropriate time in HER life. She can’t cater to us just because she does open up to the world by choice. And she treats her readers with immense respect- gives you the recipes and food pics you demand, has giveaways all the time, and is always interesting and fun to read about. Stop complaining or move on.

    Jenna, You don’t owe us ANYTHING. I think your own individual voice and personal stories are what keeps me reading your blogs. To those who are disappointed about your training or how much you’re going to participate are PESSIMISTS and never going to be happy in life because they’re too focused on beating others down for doing more courageous things in life than they ever will. Jenna is doing this ride to RAISE MONEY- NOT FOR HERSELF. That fact alone should have these negative commenters apologizing.

    It’s also highly annoying when I read things about her love of her pet, or how she must not look good if she didn’t post a pic of herself in a dress. REALLY?? I hope these people stop reading because there’s no hope for them if this is the highlight of their day.

    LOVE YOU JENNA!

  • Penny
    May 16, 2010 at 11:04 am

    Jenna,
    I, too, think you’re awesome. I think you are very interesting and cool person. Please try not to be upset about some mean and stupid comments that some idiots left.
    It really ticks me off when people leave negative comments on a blog (and someones LIFE) that they do not personally know.

    I re-read your last post, and I can’t even figure out why this has happened. I can find NOTHING wrong with anything you said in that post.

    Some people. Geez.

  • Lindsey B
    May 16, 2010 at 11:05 am

    er— I totally called out the wrong person. Sorry!!! I didn’t realize you were quoting another person :/

  • Helen
    May 16, 2010 at 11:16 am

    OMG I just read some of the comments people left on your last post. I am so glad you have ignored them as they are so. judgmental. As you say, they don;t know the whole story about the ECF or about the marathon and you shouldn’t have to explain yourself to anyone. You do live a great life because of your fabulous writing and no-one should make you feel bad because of that. I hope this hasn’t put you off blogging.

  • Pam
    May 16, 2010 at 11:19 am

    They’re all haters. You’re fab.

  • Jen
    May 16, 2010 at 11:29 am

    I love your blog Jenna. It’s nice to see you are human, that sometimes you make mistakes or take on too much. I enjoy your honesty. 60 miles is still a freaking hard, long bike ride so good for you! And I agree that these readers need to get a life if they have nothing better to do than judge your life.

  • Rika
    May 16, 2010 at 11:29 am

    you can do it jenna! 😀 remember, most of us are your fan!!

  • Crystal
    May 16, 2010 at 11:33 am

    I don’t get why so many people are upset about the rebuttal. If someone in real life tears you a new one (as a few posters did) most people don’t sit there and take it. They respond. That’s exactly what Jenna did.

  • Erinn
    May 16, 2010 at 11:38 am

    Food and exercise wellness blogs are getting really ridiculous. It’s lame how readers are just not allowed to have differing opinions. Sorry I’m not biking 60 miles to donate to a charity or training for an Ironman to build my ego, but I have a life to live.

    You seem like a cool girl Jenna, but honestly, go try to live in the real world for once.

    Peace.

  • Melanie
    May 16, 2010 at 11:42 am

    I don’t read the comments as I use a RSS reader so missed all the craziness but after reading your latest post I just wanted to voice my support. I’m a fan of your blog, I have a lot of similar interests (reading, wine, good food, exercise) so enjoy reading about your experiences and thank you for sharing them with us.

    I started road cycling two years ago, I was so surprised how much of a toll long distance rides took on my body! Congratulations to you for both giving your time to help raise money for charity and for not giving up on on the ride even though cycling is not for you. 60 miles is a great achievement, I’ll be looking forward to reading about your ride.

  • Mrs S
    May 16, 2010 at 11:55 am

    I have lived a number of years, and never read so many unwarranted remarks from non bloggers- I consider it a
    privilege to read Jenna’s wonderful blog, she is wholesome, honest, interesting read, well bred, and a beautiful woman
    with a lot of hutsba, and courage. I wish I could respond to
    all who wrote nasty comments judging her ! Judge not that ye
    not be judged ! Jenna, I wish you the best in the race, I’ll tell
    you what I tell my children, grandchildren,great grandchildren,
    DO THE BEST YOU CAN DO, and all will be proud of you !!!!
    Bless you !

  • Richelle
    May 16, 2010 at 11:58 am

    Wow. Some people take things a little too seriously huh? I just don’t understand why some readers have to criticize you so harshly… I think it’s time to step away from the computer and worry about your OWN problems in the REAL world people! If you don’t like what you’re reading, click your “ESC” keys and move on… this is Jenna’s blog about HER life. Who are you to judge?

    Keep smiling girl!

  • Jilli
    May 16, 2010 at 12:03 pm

    Hey Jenna,

    So, I just wanted to let you know, your blog is most definitely one of my favorites. I have quite the list that I read (some grudgingly….) and I look forward to reading yours. First of all, I love how often you post (that may sound bad, but its super fun to read all your happenings w/ work) and 2nd, I love reading about your food and sport adventures! I think you are living an awesome life, so keep your chin up and ignore those that are way critical of you! Coming from the world of ice-skating (one of the only sports where you win competitions through the opinions and judgements of your skating elements by others), believe me I understand fully how hurtful and easily people can get into your head! Your blog is great, and I think you’re doing an awesome job at your career and biking goals! We all slip up and have crappy days… some people don’t understand this and are WAY too critical.

    So, keep up the good work!
    -Jilli

  • Suzanne de Cornelia
    May 16, 2010 at 12:07 pm

    You have a personal one-woman blog that is rated bet 25-36K out of 400M+ in the world. A stunningly successful rarity. The very few totally clueless naysayers here couldn’t achieve that in a million years.

    If in training you recognized that you needed to adjust the mileage to a still phenomenal rate–the donated $ is going for the same thing regardless.

    In the future, should just consider moderating blog and deleting belittling comments as most bloggers do–it is totally appropriate to protect the 99.99% of people who love the blog from the same types that go to a party and bring down the atmosphere for everyone else. They are toxic and that’s what toxic people do. Give them a platform and they’ll do it all the time. This isn’t a town hall meeting–it is your personal real estate–just as if it were your living room. You get to decide who gets to be there.

    Classy people know that if they have a problem–send an email. These people are shameful and an embarrassment to womenhood.

  • Bobbi
    May 16, 2010 at 12:08 pm

    Quoting a friend, who says it best, “The trouble with most of us is that we would rather be ruined by praise than saved by criticism.”

    I don’t have a problem with Jenna’s chosen way of life etc., but I do think it’s pretty short-sighted to get upset when people disagree. Obviously everyone has the right to their opinions. We are VERY lucky if everything we do is right and perfect and no one ever EVER disagree with us our whole entire lives. Just take it as a chance to reflect and grow. After that, if you conclude the criticism doesn’t apply to you, then be assured that you are doing the right thing. But don’t brush off criticisms as “people are being mean.” Being coddled doesn’t do you any favors.

  • pat
    May 16, 2010 at 12:08 pm

    It’s a blog, people. Jenna, this is one of three blogs I read daily. You don’t have to explain yourself to anyone.

  • Suzanne de Cornelia
    May 16, 2010 at 12:20 pm

    #249 Bless You Susan!!!! All the best wishes to you and your children!! You are why these events exists–and why Jenna and others like her–take tremendous/valuable time from their OWN lives to raise $$$ to help others.

    These few clueless people here are beyond sickening for going after her.

    I PRAY YOU WILL BE FULLY RECOVERED SOON, SUSAN. A friend had one of the worst cancers and survived because she did a lot of alternate therapies too. Listening to music, watching funny videos, yoga/meditation/wheat grass, swimming, etc. she went through the hell you describe, and then was healthier looking than had ever seen her before. May that be your result, too!! Your attitude is heroic!!

  • Melanie
    May 16, 2010 at 12:25 pm

    Jenna – you are inspiring, wonderful and fun. Your zest for life is contagious and you actually inspired me to write my own blog. A blog is a way to connect yourself with others and give them a glimpse into one aspect of your life – it saddens me to think that people (i.e., readers who are supposed to be reading the blog FREELY and out of ENJOYMENT) and criticizing you for living your life and reaching for the stars.

    You challenge yourself each and every day. People do not seem to realize that it is the JOURNEY in which you grow, dream and do the impossible – not in reaching the ultimate destination.

    I admire your strength, courage and resilience. Keep your head up and listen to your heart, and your supportive friends, boyfriend and family; they are the ones which know you best.

    Best of Luck and Warm Wishes,
    M

  • Notorious K
    May 16, 2010 at 12:37 pm

    Jenna,

    Simply stated: F*** the haters.

    For every one person who has a God-complex and makes snap-judgments based on your entries, there are 10,000 more who enjoy a tiny peak into your life.

    Keep blogging.

  • Suzanne de Cornelia
    May 16, 2010 at 12:37 pm

    #200 ari and commrades; becky, ashley, and hellen.

    Ari wrote: ‘I’m a firm believer in if you commit to something, then don’t back out. you need to do to get it done. clearly, you didn’t do that. so yeah, you did flake. at least own up to it.”

    God, what a total jerk. Jenna isn’t ‘backing out’ and I don’t see ANY of your names among those the donated $1,630.

    Would 200 lb Hellen like to bike 100 miles or even 60 in order to donate $1,630 to cancer research. Let’s see your names right now on a charity endurance event, Hellen, Ari, Becky, Ashley–past, present or future and the amount raised.

  • Rachel
    May 16, 2010 at 12:44 pm

    Hi Jenna,

    I read your blog everyday because I like it, and I’ve been reading for 2+ years. I’ve followed you as you’ve changed homes, changed perspectives, changed boyfriends, changed writing styles, changed food obsessions, changed careers, and changed fitness routines. In short, I’ve been reading all about your life as you’ve been finding the meaning of it.

    Have I always agreed with everything you’ve said and done? Of course not, because we’re different. Have I stopped reading because I was offended by being unappreciated? Of course not, because you don’t know me in order to offend, and you really don’t owe me any appreciation. I’m the one who chooses to click the link to your blog everyday, and I’m the one who gets the real pleasure out of reading it, whether I agree 100% with what you say/do or not. I don’t have to. That’s the joy of following blogs. I’m allowed to give (comment) and take (be inspired) from whatever blogs I read. Call me selfish, I guess.

    It’s hard to see so much drama in response to how you document your life for the world to see. I think it can be easy sometimes to forget that as much as I may think I “know” you, there is so much that I know and trust you would never fully discuss on your blog. I think thats a good and healthy thing. It’s hard to be so trusting on the internet, even when you’re in this (mostly) positive and supportive blogging community.

    As far as you telling readers to get a life, I welcome the attitude. It brings humanity across the virtual world. That’s not to say I welcome being arrogant or condescending, but I don’t think you are those things–because I don’t know you well enough to judge.

    Also, please notice that I didn’t even say “bike race” or “being flaky” or even “Dexter.” I think the internet provides such a huge avenue for miscommunication that it’s hard to find out where these hurtful words and comments are coming from. I personally didn’t donate, but if I had then I think I would still rest assured that the money is going to the right place, regardless of those (irrelevant) 40 miles that you will no longer be biking.

    So I guess all I’m trying to say is that I’m a huge supporter of your blog because I’m selfish and I really like to read it.

    Keep your head up,
    Rachel

  • Katie P
    May 16, 2010 at 12:45 pm

    great job jenna! have a great sunday 🙂

  • Suzanne de Cornelia
    May 16, 2010 at 12:50 pm

    Jenna,

    Your statement/explanation below (that sparked A VERY FEW HORRID COMMENTS) was totally in keeping with the context of your blog and a 1000% reasonable explanation.

    If ANYONE can’t read it and get this–they are beyond losers. You don’t owe ANYONE any further explanation beyond this. And have just learned that while the MAJORITY of people are reasonable and nice—there are some total cretins out there. And they are the ones that read THIS and then responded as they did (ie ari etc all above):

    “Training has been really, really hard on me. Caitlin has said this also, but its exhausting being on the bike for 3-4 hours at a time to train. I’ve had some issues with refueling because I’ve been burning like a million calories per bike ride and then it’s been hard for me to eat enough to make that up….which led to migraines and even more exhaustion. Couple that with moving, the month of April (which was a crazy emotional/draining month) and finishing the first draft of my book….it’s been very difficult.

    I’ve also found out that while cycling is nice and a great way to see the country-side, it’s not really for me. I’ve found that I prefer running, yoga and strength training as my favorite forms of exercise. I’m just too much of a crazy spaz and still constantly worried I’ll get hit by a car or something. Sort of takes the joy out of the sport.

    I decided last month that I was going to take it down a notch and do the 60 mile option instead of the 100 and that’s what I’m still planning on doing but I know ANY distance that I do will be a huge accomplishment, just for the sheer fact of raising thousands of dollars for cancer research and because biking is so incredibly out of my comfort zone and foreign to me. I hope you all will continue to support me and cheer on Caitlin next weekend….whatever happens, it’s going to be a blast and we have some fun “re-fueling” activities planned as well. I probably won’t get on the bike much this week because I feel like I’ve already sufficiently trained for the distance I want to do (and know I’m always able to go further on the day of the actual event). Instead, I’m going back to my comfort zone of working out at a gym (I’m gym shopping in my new neighborhood and have a seven day pass to one!) and going to yoga classes to calm my nerves before the big day next Sunday. As much as I love the idea of intense endurance events, I don’t think I’ll be doing anymore. I love the occasional 5 or 10K run but it’s just too much pressure and too hard on my body. If I’ve learned anything over the past couple months from cycling, it’s been to listen to your body above all else!”

    YOU were doing ALL of this for $1,650-ish thus far in charitable donations. YOU DO NOT OWE ANYONE ANYTHING FURTHER. Esp not the few mean-spirited folk.

    BE PROUD OF YOURSELF and know that attractive, active girls are ALWAYS lightening rods for criticism from losers.

  • Sarah
    May 16, 2010 at 12:55 pm

    Dearest all bitchy commenters that SHOULD listen to Jenna & get a life- do you realize you are spending moments of your life (that you can’t get back!) criticizing a woman for HER personal choices? Shut the f*ck up and find something better to do. If you don’t like what she does/says/writes then ignore it!! Also, report back when you make zero mistakes & reach perfection.

    • jessi
      May 18, 2010 at 5:15 am

      “Dearest all bitchy commenters that SHOULD listen to Jenna & get a life- do you realize you are spending moments of your life (that you can’t get back!) criticizing a woman for HER personal choices? Shut the f*ck up and find something better to do.”

      Dearest all bitchy commenters that love every word Jenna writes – do you realize you are spending moments of your life (that you can’t get back!) criticizing people for their opinion? Shut the f*uck up and find something better to do.

      But clearly, you won’t understand the irony…

  • Kristina
    May 16, 2010 at 12:56 pm

    I clearly have no life because I’m commenting here…
    I realize that this is a bit of a tangent, but I must admit that I would have liked to have heard more about your experiences on the bike. I understand that you are busy and maybe you didn’t want to write a ton about the biking experience, but as someone who took up biking a few years ago because of a bad knee, I really looked forward to reading about your experiences “in the saddle”. It’s something that I didn’t pick up easily, but I’ve loved the confidence that I have developed and continue to develop.
    I hope that the event goes well for you, and I would also urge you to keep with biking and see where you are in a year from now.

  • Lee
    May 16, 2010 at 1:01 pm

    You don’t deserve anything that people said. They don’t know you personally. You’re a real person, not just a “healthy living blogger”. You choose what you want to do in life and what you want to write about and if people don’t like it, then like you said they don’t have to read. It just makes me mad when people say that they’re disappointed in you for certain things. They don’t know you!! It’s not like this blog is a tv show, this is really your life.

  • Ashley
    May 16, 2010 at 1:01 pm

    I REALLY really hope that you continue blogging!!!! You blog I find so light and funny. (especially lately) Which is particularly helpful for me when I’m having a bad day….. Hope to see you back blogging soon : ) People are just crazy and immature. They are just bullies, seriously what’s the point to make someone feel so horrible. The important thing is you got people part of a good cause. It’s not like you ran away with all the money. It’s getting people involved with the important thing. AND PLEASE you are still biking 60 miles. Who can say they have biked 60 miles….I will continue to support your blog!!!! Big time!!

  • beth
    May 16, 2010 at 1:05 pm

    I feel like I am in the fourth grade again catching up on all of this negativity!?!?! The only person we have to live with is ourself, and you honor yourself however you feel fit 🙂 . All of these judgemental and critical people need to get a damn life and find something to be positive about and stop spewing negative bullshit on the internet.

  • Tricia
    May 16, 2010 at 1:18 pm

    Good for you Jenna!

  • Tae
    May 16, 2010 at 1:18 pm

    I love reading your blog, but have never commented. I was just so saddened by the “Rebuttal” post. I can’t believe some of the comments that were said to you. People are unbelievable. Good luck next weekend, 60 miles is more than I could do 🙂

  • Mom
    May 16, 2010 at 1:23 pm

    Not to get off the subject… But, I would love to recommend a book to all of Jenna’s readers. I just finished it after reading for two days. “A Soft Place to Land” by Susan Rebecca White. It was an excellent portrayal of two sisters, their lives, struggles, and love. Beautifully written. The only thing I am not too sure about is the ending. Let me know what you think! Enjoy!

  • Liz
    May 16, 2010 at 1:31 pm

    I don’t know if this will be read since it’s at the end of hundreds of comments, but I felt I had to comment in support of Jenna. I also have a “history” of going all out with registrations for sporting events and either not following through or not following through to the extent I wanted to, but with good reason. For instance, last spring I was going to do a 100k bike ride for the American Diabetes Association. It was, of course, an event that required that I ask for pledges. Since I hate doing that, I actually put up most of the money myself, but did accept a few pledges. My training suffered heavily because of the crazy amounts of rain we got last spring/summer in my area – it rained pretty much constantly til the end of July, and the even was in June. I simply was unable to get in the kind of training I needed. I felt bad about not doing the event, but the people who pledged money pledged it to support the ADA, NOT as some sort of payment to force me to ride a long distance on my bike.

    A few years back, I also signed up for a half-marathon, my first-ever road race (even though I was a regular shorter-distance runner.) I got a terrible hip injury and ran just once in the last month of the training period. My friends with whom I was running the race wouldn’t accept this as a valid excuse for dropping out, so I did run/walk it, full of extra-strength tylenol, in a time that was almost half an hour slower than I wanted.

    Anyway, there is nothing wrong with feeling like you’re not up to a task you thought you were up to. Better to try something and be ambitious than never try at all.

    Also I see nothing wrong with accepting free stuff from sponsors!

  • Sam
    May 16, 2010 at 1:33 pm

    Disagree with the above poster. Unless a comment is clearly vulgar and inappropriate, I think it should stay.

    I’ve been a reader for a while and don’t think I’ve ever posted. I was telling my husband last night that your comment about cycling sounded so much like me – I bought a bike last year and started riding to train for triathlons, only to realize that cars scare the absolute shiz out of me, which makes the whole experience less fun. Not to mention the time commitment required to get any sort of decent mileage in. I still want to like cycling but for now I am in the same place you are on that.

    I do think that most of the critical responses here have been done in a fair manner and, while I disagree with some of them, I also agree with others. You run a fun blog and, like I said, I’ve been a follower for a while. I’ll probably continue reading. However, I do feel that there is a lack of appreciation for your readers, the large majority of whom are very supportive of you. Please don’t attack them as a whole and please respect the people who express their opposing views in a reasonable manner. They tend to provide the most material to learn from.

  • Lauren @ Running Examiner
    May 16, 2010 at 1:35 pm

    Hi Jenna,

    I already commented earlier (hi again!) but wanted to touch on the idea of learning how to accept constructive (and not-so-constructive) criticism. I’m a creative writer and have published one book of short stories, taken many writing workshops in college and grad school, etc. Simply put, criticism sucks. It’s really hard to disengage yourself from your work/art, or your blog, or something very meaningful to you, and understand that criticism isn’t necessarily an attack on you, but someone voicing his/her opinion about a decision you’ve made–whether it relates to your writing or your life beyond that.

    Criticism is hard to accept. God knows I have a hard time accepting it. Like you, I’m a sensitive person. I could spend hours dwelling on every (perceived) negative thing every person has ever said to me. But I decided several years ago that I was just going to take the “let it go” approach when it comes to criticism. I remind myself that, just because someone has an opinion, it doesn’t make said opinion right or wrong. It just *is.* I cannot control what other people think or say about my writing, but how I react to their words is in fact within the realm of my control.

    Recognizing this was extremely empowering to me. Instead of internalizing negative feedback, I give myself permission to obsess over it for exactly one minute–then let it go. I literally imagine the words floating into the air, far away from me. This visualization seriously helps. I encourage you to try this, especially because you soon will be a published writer!

    **Side not: There are some instances when I think criticism can be really, really valuable, and warrants some thought and reflection. Whenever criticism gets personal, though–for no good reason–then it doesn’t merit your time. A personal affront is really never appropriate, especially when delivered by a person (or people) who don’t truly know you…

    Take care 🙂

  • Lauren @ Running Examiner
    May 16, 2010 at 1:36 pm

    Hi Jenna,

    I already commented earlier (hi again!) but wanted to touch on the idea of learning how to accept constructive (and not-so-constructive) criticism. I’m a creative writer and have published one book of short stories, taken many writing workshops in college and grad school, etc. Simply put, criticism sucks. It’s really hard to disengage yourself from your work/art, or your blog, or something very meaningful to you, and understand that criticism isn’t necessarily an attack on you, but someone voicing his/her opinion about a decision you’ve made–whether it relates to your writing or your life beyond that.

    Criticism is hard to accept. God knows I have a hard time accepting it. Like you, I’m a sensitive person. I could spend hours dwelling on every (perceived) negative thing every person has ever said to me. But I decided several years ago that I was just going to take the “let it go” approach when it comes to criticism. I remind myself that, just because someone has an opinion, it doesn’t make said opinion right or wrong. It just *is.* I cannot control what other people think or say about my writing, but how I react to their words is in fact within the realm of my control.

    Recognizing this was extremely empowering to me. Instead of internalizing negative feedback, I give myself permission to obsess over it for exactly one minute–then let it go. I literally imagine the words floating into the air, far away from me. This visualization seriously helps. I encourage you to try this, especially because you soon will be a published writer!

    **Side note: There are some instances when I think criticism can be really, really valuable, and warrants some thought and reflection. Whenever criticism gets personal, though–for no good reason–then it doesn’t merit your time. A personal affront is really never appropriate, especially when delivered by a person (or people) who don’t truly know you…

    Take care 🙂

  • Eric
    May 16, 2010 at 1:36 pm

    I doubt you’ll see this as comment # 352 and counting (probably 10 more by the time I finish) but I am totally on your side on this. I can understand people being disappointed, but to insult you as an athlete and blogger and call you a flake or a liar? I mean is it really that big of a deal? 60 miles is still a hell of a ride, and it’s not like you are pocketing the donation, it’s for cancer research and people should still be glad to support you and the cause!! Go kick ass on the ride and forget what everyone else says.

  • Lauren @ Running Examiner
    May 16, 2010 at 1:37 pm

    Sorry for the double post…

  • Carrie
    May 16, 2010 at 1:40 pm

    Jenna,

    Some of us who read your blog voted for you in the Murphy Goode contest every chance we could and told others to do so, too. Now you are telling those of us who might have left comments in the last post that simply stated a differing opinion to “get a life.”

    I know you are young and still learning, but I hope you see your folly here.

  • kidi
    May 16, 2010 at 1:42 pm

    It seems to me that the most inappropriate mean-spirited comments are coming from the readers who have Jenna’s back and not those with different views. Perhaps people in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones?

  • R
    May 16, 2010 at 1:42 pm

    Wait–so now you’re hating on Jenna because she said something negative to you? So by your logic, you can be critical–you insist it is your right–but she cannot be anything but lovely and agreeable with you. That’s sick.

    “I agree with what others have said about an apparent lack of respect for readers. Questions, comments and polite criticisms go unanswered, and then readers are rudely told to “get a life”? And condenscendingly given Jenna’s “best advice” to just “take a deep breath”?”

    Let me say this one more time: Jenna. Owes. You. Nothing. If you like another blogger’s style better, then by all means read that one! There are no rules she has to conform to. I could start a blog and write every day about how stupid my readers are. That is my right. No one has an obligation to pander to readers. Ya’ll are so freaking egotistical–everything needs to be done according to your standards. News: world does not revolve around you! Jenna only has an obligation to do Jenna.

  • Leslie
    May 16, 2010 at 1:46 pm

    So I never really comment on your blog, but I read it regularly and thought I should just say that you are awesome… I think that for every negative comment there are a ton of people like me who read and don’t comment (because I certainly don’t have anything negative to say). I love your blog, so please keep writing!

  • Elise
    May 16, 2010 at 1:54 pm

    life happens, people. last summer i was training for the chicago triathalon, and when i got my apartment bed bugs and became a “nomad” moving from friend’s house to friend’s house for two months living on other people’s schedules, i had to drop out a month before. it felt awful, and i wish i could’ve done it. but, life happens. sometimes that means you don’t get to do completely or at all what your original commitment was. the only difference here between me being held accountable and you, is that your life is public. kudos to you for listening to your body and life, and good luck on the 60 miles — pop a tire!

  • tiff
    May 16, 2010 at 1:58 pm

    #348 Sarah

    “Dearest all bitchy commenters that SHOULD listen to Jenna & get a life- …Shut the f*ck up and find something better to do.”

    Perfect example of some of your rabid ELR fans. How is a response of that nature more respectful than any of the previous comments you received? Differing opinions will only exist, whether on this blog or in the “real world”, but comments where people are vicious to each other shouldn’t be allowed.

  • tiff
    May 16, 2010 at 1:59 pm

    differing opinions will always exist*

  • Becky
    May 16, 2010 at 2:03 pm

    Suzanne de Cornelia: I’m sorry, but you seem to be completely over the top here. Please go back and re-read my comment (#65) and the language that I used. I never called Jenna a “flake” or a “failure.” I never used profanity in my comment (in this post or any others), although subsequent comments used profanity against me (I believe the term used was “F*ck off”). You can disagree with my statement that friends should push on each other. You can disagree with whether I’m right to think that it’s fair for us, as readers, to comment. But please distinguish between those of us offering civil discussion and those who are explicitly attacking Jenna. And also, Suzanne, if you are so offending by the “attacks,” why would you then turn around and attack commenters in such an aggressive way yourself?

  • Megan
    May 16, 2010 at 2:04 pm

    Jenna, you are the bomb! Enjoy your 60-mile (I don’t think I would be brave enough) ride!

  • Rachel @ Suburban Yogini
    May 16, 2010 at 2:05 pm

    imperfect = I’m perfect

    And we’re all imperfect. All of us.

  • Eliza
    May 16, 2010 at 2:07 pm

    there are plenty of things i would like to say about this post and your blog in general, but clearly any comments that don’t involve being obsessed with you are unwelcome so i’ll refrain. i will, however, say that you should be careful telling the readers that add to YOUR livelihood to “get a life.” this post makes you sound like a petulant teenager and it is very unbecoming. if you can’t handle critical comments and are willing to lose any reader with a different opinion than yours i hope that works out for you. i’m not so sure you’ll “get along fine” without them. stop expecting to be coddled and grow up.

  • Jaya
    May 16, 2010 at 2:10 pm

    Jenna, I don’t feel that there is anything for me to offer in this discussion, but (and please don’t think I’m trivializing your feelings) but I am currently doing a major research project dealing with this “health blogging” phenomenon and this series of posts and comments is really indicative to me some people consider themselves “shareholders” in this enterprise. That’s not right or wrong, it’s just extremely interesting. I’ve been very interested to learn that there are incredible benefits and dangers to representing symbols and topics under the umbrella of “health” as a non-professional in the traditional and alternative health fields.
    Ok, I’m going back on my first sentence and saying this – from one writer to another – your voice is your most powerful tool…for better or for worse. I wish you the very best 🙂

  • Cathy
    May 16, 2010 at 2:16 pm

    #372 Eliza – you’ve voiced what many of us frustrated non-commenters want to say: if you’re not 100 per cent “rah rah Jenna!” you must need a life. Petulant teenager is the best description I’ve yet read.

  • Amber
    May 16, 2010 at 2:20 pm

    Forty miles. Could never have imagined the type of people drawn to such a blog as this would find the need to make an issue of 40 miles, the freedom to change one’s mind, and the realization one has made a mistake.

    Jealousy is the worst of emotions. It eats up like a cancer and I believe it is the core of the problem in this situation. It feels to me like there are some who are watching a seemingly idealic life – certainly more so than most – all the while waiting to find a flaw and they eagerly take that opportunity to strike. Delusional thinking makes them feel better for it for, to them, it is as though it has somehow lessened their own pain.

    We know it only takes one rotten apple to spoil the whole barrel. I hope the wanta be spoilers here will find another place to release their unhappiness for this blog has been a daily respite to me.

  • M
    May 16, 2010 at 2:27 pm

    Jenna,
    I’m a fan of your blog but am also put off by the “get a life” comment. While no one should be sitting at their computer firing off nasty remarks to you, not everyone has the glamorous CA life you project on this blog. Some people don’t have as much going on and to tell them to get a life? What if they all did that- would you have any readers left? The losers without a life are helping to pay your salary. Just a thought.

  • Kasee
    May 16, 2010 at 2:36 pm

    I just finished my first half-marathon yesterday and what GREAT advice for spectators!! Thank you for that post!!!

  • Carol
    May 16, 2010 at 2:38 pm

    Your handful of negative comments were not rude or disrespectful. It’s the people bashing the few negative comments who are immature and using foul language on a blog.

  • Suzanne de Cornelia
    May 16, 2010 at 2:54 pm

    #348 Sarah–ROTFLMAO!!!! Just too funny and great.

  • Beth
    May 16, 2010 at 3:49 pm

    I agree with those who said hte negative commenters REALLY need a life. I, too, am guilty of having a bit of “life envy” re: the way your lifestyle is portrayed on the blog (which I’m sure it isn’t really and you clearly are not rolling in dough considering you have no furniture or a tv). But, I could never do what you do – what would these people say if they found out I ditched a workout and had ice cream for dinner considering the way they reacted to this?!?! Oy….nobody is perfect, keep your head up.

  • Rachel
    May 16, 2010 at 3:56 pm

    I read your blog all the time, but I never post. I feel like I know you; it’s weird sometimes when I feel like I know you, but I haven’t meet you and really only know a tiny part of your life. however, I love reading your blog; I’m around your age and I feel like your life reflects mine a lot (though on a different side of the continent). I completely admire you for taking on the bike ride, and I admire you for realizing that you cannot do it all and finding a compromise. There is nothing wrong with that–it’s a bike ride, not life or death! Don’t listen to the negative comments, but realize you have an even large support group!

    And by the way, I once had an old dog who happened to also be tiny. We didn’t realize she was going blind until she walked right off our porch in between the railing and fell one story. Luckily she came to no harm, but I understand how scary it can be when you don’t know how your pet will react. It’s better to be safe then sorry, and I also have a cat and a porch and it took me a long time to trust her on it, but now she loves going out there…but I still worry.

  • Met
    May 16, 2010 at 4:22 pm

    Hey Jenna
    Love your blog, and I check it our every day, for inspiration and for a giggle – its true, you are awesome, just for being you and sticking at what you believe in, even though its a struggle sometimes.
    I guess everyone has an opinion, and some like to be more vocal than others, and some enjoy being negative or bringing others down. I think when people get a window into your life like they do with blogging its a little like being a ‘celebrity’ – people get a bit possessive – they are invested in your life in some way, and they develop views, opinions etc, and along with that comes judgement – people feel they know you, and thus all the over-opinionating! just be glad that you don’t really know all those negative people, and that they aren’t your close friends and family!!! with blogging people just see a very small snippet of who you truly are… those closest to you are the only ones who really matter… they know you : )
    Truth is, you know who you are – at the end of the day its only you who has to be happy with your choices. People make so many choices every day to please others, or because they worry about what others will say about them, or think of them, or that they won’t like/love them. Its courageous to make choices that feel right for you…
    love your work : )

  • Sammi
    May 16, 2010 at 4:30 pm

    I will say I’m glad to know it’s nothing personal that Jenna failed to answer questions when I posed them…that many have had the same experience.

    I don’t knock her for dropping her mileage. My previous response agreed that the money goes to an amazing cause no matter what. It was the disclosure factor. It seems this post brought up many feelings in her readers beyond just that…such as lack of appreciation (I agree with that). Some comments were downright harsh and nasty (bad cat mom? really?) but that to me didn’t warrant her telling the collective readership to get a life. Obviously she’s posted again and has no plans on apologizing for that. Much stone throwing here.

    Jenna-Good luck at EGF on the 60 mile course, that’s still a lot of mileage to tackle and again, for a good cause. Kudos for not backing out, just listening to your body. Please don’t take all the dissenting opinions as negative. As many have said, as a writer you’ll need to be able to swallow criticism, and it can even help build you stronger.

  • jessica
    May 16, 2010 at 4:42 pm

    Dear Jenna,
    Long time lurker, first time poster. And I’m disappointed in you.
    I wish you had just stopped after the second paragraph. Telling your readership to “just let it go and take a deep breath. Aren’t there bigger things to worry about? Quite simply you probably should just get a life and stop throwing stones at mine.” is rude. I looked back and MOST of the comments on your last blog were really supportive. And encouraging your super fans to come go after the people who weren’t by writing a “rebuttle” is immature. You could have followed your own advice to “let it go and take a deep breath.” It seems like anytime you get a comment you don’t like (for example, someone not believing you weren’t wearing makeup) you make a mountain out of a mole hill by writing an entire blog complaining about it.

    And I have a life, friends, an education- I’m not jealous, ugly, fat, need to get laid… whatever else. I’m just disappointed that you reduced your blog to a HS cat fight. And you have my email. Feel free to contact me personally if you have a “rebuttle” to my post instead of sicking your groupie hounds on me.
    Anyway, I guess I won’t be missed when I stop reading your blog. I’m tired of the petty way you handle criticism. Which is bummer, because on the whole, your blog is really great. I just don’t like the drama you perpetuate. Like you said, there are plenty of others out there and if you don’t value me as a reader, I’ll read something else.

  • Bostongaljm
    May 16, 2010 at 5:18 pm

    Hi Jenna, I had a cat that jumped unintentionally out of a 2nd story window after having a run, jump cycle around my house one morning. I found her bruised but fine at the front door trying desperately to get back in. She knew she wasn’t supposed to be out there! Ever since I had to secure all the screens with wire to keep them from popping out when she flew into them. Our cats are resilient and clever and curious. That’s why we love them. I did a 60 miler last year, and even after training, struggled with the hills especially in the last 10 miles. You know what is possible for you right now. I think it is for a great cause and all you can do is give it your all. You’ll be thankful at the end for taking care of yourself and cutting it back. Just get out there and have a great ride!

  • Tracy
    May 16, 2010 at 6:01 pm

    Hey Jenna,
    I read your blog everyday, but I don’t make any comments. Just wanted to show my support and tell you to ignore those who are judging you. They don’t matter. Good luck next weekend!

  • ciely
    May 16, 2010 at 6:06 pm

    I suffered thru reading those 169 comments to see WTF was up.

    Geez, isn’t it wierd how about 8 out of 169 comments had the power to whip up a storm? Kind of like a metaphor for life. The “haters” and negative energy in general have a very corrosive effect on almost everything.

    Kath (Kerf) once answered one of her critics with a simple “I’m sorry you feel that way” and promptly moved on. There’s no reason to take your critics (all 8 of them) seriously.

  • caroline
    May 16, 2010 at 6:46 pm

    My dear Jenna: When my sons are 24, I’ll be thrilled if they have books ready to publish and are making a living doing something they love. I’m sorry that you had to take so much heat for your decision to change your biking distance, but I thank you for taking the time to do something to raise money for such a worthy cause. May I suggest that your detractors consider making their donations in future directly to the cause they would like to support? This would reduce the pesky variable of human frailty in any number of perceived areas(emotional/mental/physical/spiritual) as well as the ever-present possibility that someone might not complete the designated distance in the run/bike/swim/walk.

    Your spirit of optimism is commendable, whether or not you manage to meet your endurance event goals. I also – honestly – will not feel in the least bit hurt if you don’t post all your meals ‘on time'(whatever that is), never answer my questions, or if you don’t ride a single mile in your cycling event. I also didn’t take your ‘rebuttal’ personally, since I read what you wrote (apparently this was not the case for everyone) and understood that you were addressing it to those who had made unfounded judgments about you.

    I just enjoy your blog.

  • Foodie (Fab and Delicious Food)
    May 16, 2010 at 8:21 pm

    To Jenna and her Readers,

    A little bit of background first before I state my comment on this situation…

    Jenna’s blog was one of the first blogs I started reading and was one of the ones that encouraged me to start my own. I’ve been reading her blog since the beginning and think she has a great blog, and from what I see on the blog, she seems like a good person with good intentions.

    I fully read through the post where Jenna stated that she was dropping down from 100 miles to 60 miles and had decided to do this a month ago, and also read through all the comments. Then I read her rebuttal as well as the comments. And this is what I have to say about the whole situation….

    It does seem like in general whenever anyone has a question or dissenting comment on any blog, that the majority of blog readers will then defend that blogger, but at the same time will attack the person who originally made that “negative” comment. And I think that is what we have seen here.

    I actually think the majority of the so-called “negative” comments were actually just constructive criticism. I think people missed the point of some of the statements, simply because they saw a comment that didn’t praise Jenna, and thus misconstrued it as a negative comment. From what I read, the majority of the people with the “negative” comments were just expressing their disappointment that Jenna decided to not race as many miles as she had previously stated, and were disappointed that she waited to tell us this fact instead of just being upfront about it right away. I don’t think it’s the actual number of miles that Jenna is racing that people are so concerned about, but rather, the fact that she changed her mind about how many miles to race and did not tell people right away about it, which makes them feel like she mislead them.

    Also, I feel that people do have a right to express their opinion on this situation, especially if they donated money to this cause. Yes, it is wonderful all the money is going towards cancer research – I think we can all agree that is fantastic and I don’t think anyone is trying to take away from that fact. But people work hard for their money and could just as well have donated money directly to an organization raising money for this cause. But instead they chose to support Jenna, and her efforts to ride 100 miles in order to raise money for cancer research. So when they found out Jenna was going to ride 60 miles instead and didn’t tell them right away, I think people just felt mislead and that it was a bit dishonest, even if they are still glad the money is going towards a good cause.

    In addition, I do not think it is helpful for people to say that readers can’t express a dissenting opinion if they haven’t done something like race 60 miles for charity. Maybe the readers chose to donate money because they don’t have the time to train for such an event, but wanted to help the cause anyway, and the best way for them to do so was to donate money. I think we can all agree that it is commendable for Jenna to race the 60 miles and it is awesome for her readers to donate money to this cause.

    Now, I realize that some of the comments crossed the line, but it seems like many of the other “negative” comments were just expressing their honest opinion. I understand coming to someone’s defense when their character or intentions are questioned, but most of them were not attacking her at all. I don’t think it is a good thing that many readers are trying to defend Jenna by attacking the readers who expressed the “negative” comments. Defending someone is one thing, but defending someone while attacking a fellow reader is quite another thing, especially since what everyone was so upset about in the first place was that they felt that the “negative” commentors were attacking Jenna. It does not make sense to attack those commentors while at the same time blaming them for attacking Jenna. I actually think that most of the “negative” comments were stated quite politely and respectfully, but that many of the comments defending Jenna were not helpful, since they called the “negative” commentors “haters” and worse. You should not have to resort to name calling or telling someone to get a life in order to defend someone or show your support for someone. There are respectful ways to defend someone, and I don’t think this is the way to do so.

    In regards to Jenna’s rebuttal…
    I think people would have understood if you felt like you had to stick up for yourself, but I think it just seemed a bit offputting to many people when you told your readers to “get a life.” I am sensitive myself, and can understand how some of the comments could have been very hurtful, but I just think that it could have been worded in a better way. And I’m not saying that to make you feel bad, but just as you want and deserve to be treated respectfully, your readers deserve the same courtesy as well.

    Thank you for reading my opinion on the situation.

    -Foodie

  • kate
    May 16, 2010 at 11:20 pm

    This person couldn’t have said it more perfectly. The most hateful words/comments I see are coming from the people defending you. It’s pretty creepy.
    #363kidi

    “It seems to me that the most inappropriate mean-spirited comments are coming from the readers who have Jenna’s back and not those with different views. Perhaps people in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones?”

  • Becca
    May 17, 2010 at 5:21 am

    Whoa. That was intense. Hang in there. Do what you need to do – the end.

  • Christina
    May 17, 2010 at 6:53 am

    Hi Jenna! I have been out of the loop all weekend, but took the time this morning to catch up and I can NOT believe some of the comments you got on your post about the biking event. I’m so sorry for the hurt that must’ve caused you, but I have to admit I’m a little amused at the people who feel entitled to scold you on a blog. We should all be on this earth to lift each other up and instead we spend our time knocking each other down in an effort to feel better. You’re doing a great thing and 60 miles is a lot. I Love, love, love this quote and wanted to share it with you. Good luck with the biking – you’ll do great.

    “Keep away from people who try to belittle your ambitions. Small people always do that, but the really great make you feel that you, too, can become great.”
    – Mark Twain

  • Christina
    May 17, 2010 at 6:59 am

    Hi Jenna! I have been out of the loop all weekend, but took the time this morning to catch up and I can NOT believe some of the comments you got on your post about the biking event. I’m so sorry for the hurt that must’ve caused you, but I have to admit I’m a little amused at the people who feel entitled to scold you on a blog. We should all be on this earth to lift each other up and instead we spend our time knocking each other down in an effort to feel better. You’re doing a great thing and 60 miles is a lot. I Love, love, love this quote and wanted to share it with you. Good luck with the biking – you’ll do great.

    “Keep away from people who try to belittle your ambitions. Small people always do that, but the really great make you feel that you, too, can become great.”
    – Mark Twain

  • Kristin (ChasRunner)
    May 17, 2010 at 7:02 am

    Oh girl don’t even worry about things people say. No one has any clue about what goes on in your life, people just want to be mean to make themselves feel better. Good luck at the race as well as getting settled into your new place. Happy Monday!

  • Heather (Heather's Dish)
    May 17, 2010 at 7:23 am

    i’ve said it before, and i’ll say it again, you are an inspiration to hundreds of thousands of women. i’m amazed that people feel they have the right to speak things into your life when they don’t know the whole story. and rather than email you and actually try to understand the situation, they choose to insert their comment in a hurtful manner. you deserve better than that! you’ve inspired me to live a healthier life while still enjoying food, wine, and great company. thank you for being awesome, Jenna, you’ve touched my life more than you could know!

  • Shelly
    May 17, 2010 at 9:34 am

    Holy Cow. I started reading the comments on your last post, and had to stop because I was getting too upset for you. Yes, people who donated money have a right to say they are disappointed. (But in all fairness, that money is going to help out Cancer research regardless of how many miles you bike, so I hope they can feel comforted by that fact.) But there were some really nasty comments who just seemed like they were waiting for an opportunity to say the meanest thing they can think of. I hope you know that says a lot more about them than it does about you.
    And seriously, anyone who calls you lazy for *only* biking 60 miles perhaps should look up the definition of lazy.
    I totally feel your pain- I hate biking! (I swim and run and people keep asking me why I don’t do a tri- it’s the biking! Ugh!) And I think it’s understandable that you waited a while to post that you were doing 60 because clearly, you anticipated that there would be a negative reaction.

  • K from Cali
    May 17, 2010 at 10:51 am

    If people don’t like what Jenna has to say, then they can and should go elsewhere. But as a “public” figure, I do think that Jenna has to get thicker skin. Otherwise she should just turn off comments and rename the blog, “Eat, Live, Rainbows” – because clearly, only groupies with bright shiny comments should have a voice.

  • Lori
    May 17, 2010 at 3:45 pm

    I was reading Tales of a Recovered Disordered Eater’s blog, and I’m sorry you have been receiving criticism about your blog. I know that being criticized for something is not a very nice feeling. I hope that you have a good rest of the week! 🙂

  • Bridget
    May 18, 2010 at 4:14 am

    I know I’m a bit late in the game to leave a comment here, but I was traveling so I wasn’t able to leave one when this post was written. I am glad that you did decide to blog, despite the generalizations and ridicule from so many others.

    The comments about it being “time to grow up” and that you are “self-centered” just boggled my mind. The people who could write such words have most likely never lost anyone important in life; certainly not a brother. They don’t know what it’s like to have to deal with loss or grief, or the repercussions that come along afterward.

    Northern California is not an easy place to make it, and I’m glad that you have stuck it out. Being independent works wonders, though it is *NOT* easy.

    Love your old writing style, new writing style, and just the fact that you are a talented writer. This is only a glimpse into your life, but having lost a lot and become more independent (and healthy) afterward, I feel a connection to that. Keep doing what you have always set out to!

    Bridget

  • cathy
    May 18, 2010 at 12:08 pm

    Don’t let those people get you down. They are just jealous because they either didn’t have the opportunity or inclination to do all the cool and interesting things you do. I WISH I had taken adavantage and traveled experienced life more before I had kids and I live vicariously through you, so keep doing what you’re doing. You are a wonderful woman!

  • Shanna
    May 19, 2010 at 5:11 pm

    Hi Jenna!
    I’ve read your blog for over two years now and I love it. I’m so happy that you kept blogging and one of the things I love most about your blog is that you’re a normal person. You love wine, cook delicious looking food, and have fun. Isn’t that what being in our twenties is all about? I’ll never understand someone taking the time out of their day to write a nasty comment on a blog. Keep doing what you’re doing…or whatever you want. It’s your blog, you should write/do/say whatever you want! Sending you lots of love!

  • ElizabethMDS
    July 16, 2010 at 1:42 pm

    Coming in late, but I think you’re AWESOMESAUCE! Your hideous naysayers can suck it.
    Peace out. XOXO

  • Anon
    January 3, 2011 at 11:03 am

    The tone of this post is quite condescending.