Experiential stories that revolve around the importance of being authentic to not only yourself but to those around you. After years of never finding the time to ‘stop and smell the roses,’ Jeannette is unearthing many of her passions including writing, fashion, and thrifting through her online blog ‘The Vineyard Life’ – a creative outlet that allows her to share, learn, and grow with others. You can explore more of her stories at @jeannettepdardenne on Instagram or www.myvineyardlife.com.

By Jeannette Dardenne

No matter how hard I try, life is moving forward … at a freight train pace.

Aside from chronic back pain, I can get around with ease. Bend down, dance the two-step, and run after my kids. 20 years from now? Who knows?

There is this voice in my head that keeps on telling me to take advantage of now. Stop planning for the years that <may> be “uncomfortable” – aka, knees that ache, skin that sags, and taste buds that need extra <extra> salt to enjoy some of my favorite things.

Here is my unplanned plan for right now:
– buy clothes that make me happy
– wear clothes that make me happy inside AND outside, < grocery shopping in a silk gown paired with cowboy boots sounds fun>
– travel by food, <choose destinations based on what I can eat & drink>
– seek out adventures that I have dreamed of experiencing <will plan to make list>

AND yes these aspirations are focused on me. Sure I love my family, and experiencing some of the above all together sounds amazing. BUT I want to make sure that my cup is filled, my bowl is whisked, and yours truly walks with intention and fulfillment FORWARD.

What’s on your MOVE FORWARD with joy list?

Jeannette Punsoni Dardenne is an entrepreneur who started the popular Facebook group @eatinconnecticut – a community forum that connects foodies and the food and beverage industry for delicious conversations. She and her business partner now together run @eatinconnecticut and INGroup Creative – a public relations and marketing company that helps small businesses thrive. Jeannette is also a business advisor at the University of Hartford Entrepreneur Center & Women’s Business Center. When she isn’t helping others, she enjoys exploring the state and beyond with her husband and two children.

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