18 Comments
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Deb's World's avatar

Take care Denyse, I think it’s good to take a break every now and again and your body is telling you what it needs by the sounds of things. I’m glad you’ve got people in your corner and I’m sure you will feel better after a while, you’re right, it’s time that we need to take for ourselves. I completely understand this. x

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Denyse Whelan's avatar

Oh thanks Deb for your words of understanding and compassion.

I am letting my body heal and the mind too...my GP told me yesterday there's been a lot of trauma for me over the past years and self care along with being mindful will help me over time.

I am so fortunate to have lots of support, including my friends on line.

Take care too!

Denyse x

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Jennifer Jones's avatar

Sending you all my best wishes Denyse. You are so good at recognising what you need to do for your self care, so I’m sure this is the right decision for you. Look after yourself and enjoy your time out

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Denyse Whelan's avatar

Thanks Jennifer. I was a bit late in recognising what was going on...so my body spoke for me instead with the I.B.S. episodes.

I am learning, very slowly, to speak up for me and not to be an automatic people pleaser any more.

I appreciate your support always.

Take care,

Denyse x

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Karla VF Staudt's avatar

Take kind care of yourself Denyse. The old adage that you can't fill someone else's cup if yours is empty is so very true.

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Denyse Whelan's avatar

Thank you kindly for the reminder Karla!

I am more mindful than ever these days.

Warm wishes,

Denyse x

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Susanne's avatar

Take care of yourself Denyse. Sometimes we need to step back. I understand 2024 was turbulent for you and probably in more ways than you've shared on here.

Blogs and Substacks will still be there when/if you're up to it again.

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Denyse Whelan's avatar

Thank you so much Susanne for your kind words and insight. It’s something that accumulated for me over the past year and we don’t often notice the build up. And now I have…and am taking measures. I appreciate your thoughtful words. Denyse x

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Yvonne McClaren's avatar

You always come first - I wrote down my top 6 values a few days ago. I get it . See you when you are ready D xx

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Denyse Whelan's avatar

Thank you! Always here for each other when we need it! D x

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Leanne | crestingthehill's avatar

Hi Denyse - I'm so sorry to hear that 2024 was so tough for you. I had no idea you were going through such a difficult time. I know what it's like to feel depleted and worn down by stress and things you can't control, and totally understand why you'll be pulling back a little to give yourself some 'margin' (a word that I'm finding means more to me these days). Come and go as you feel able - stepping back can give you the space to reassess and figure out what's next. xx

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Denyse Whelan's avatar

Thanks Leanne. There are things we don’t get to share much about or even can due to embarrassment or privacy and a few other reasons.

But the combined effects of a tough year have left me as depleted as I recall in 2002 when I had to leave my job as a principal!

And I know you understand this too. So, yes, I am doing what feels right for me now, and your support and kindness is very much appreciated.

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Sue Women Living Well After 50's avatar

Take care of yourself, Denyse. You know what is right for you. Sending love x

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Denyse Whelan's avatar

Thanks Sue, I appreciate your kindness and care.

Denyse x

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Kate's avatar

Continue to take very good care of yourself Denyse. I am beginning to draft my first Substack post and it feels like a big step forward for me as I’ve been hesitant to start. Looking forward to hearing from you again when you feel ready for it.

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Denyse Whelan's avatar

Thank you so much Kate. I wish you well...that first step is worth taking. I look forward to your publication.

Take care,

Denyse x

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Stella Burnell's avatar

Thanks for sharing your plans, Denyse. As Mae West said, "Getting old ain't for the faint of heart". Good luck in the future !

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Denyse Whelan's avatar

You are so very right! And an encouraging woman who gets this too!!

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