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 ‘My Authentic Journal’ (formerly called ‘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.myauthenticjournal.com.

By Jeannette Dardenne

Recently I had to run into Target at an ungodly hour. I forgot a major condiment in our home and life was going to stand still until I was home safe and sound with this necessary item.

Here is the kicker. It was early. It was a Sunday. And I had that REAL just rolled out of bed effect going on. Pure NATURAL.

BUT FEAR NOT – I slapped that mask on and walked into the store like a champ. Not a head turned in wonderment. Nor did I feel the need to don a hat. Nope I was safe … and looked … like … everyone … else.

Yep, just try to pick me up out of a line up.

Did I wash my hair recently? Who knows

Wear that fancy eye cream? Hmph

Throw on lipstick to look “alive?!” Not sure!

Now I get that the weather is getting warm. And the masks can get a little itchy scratchy when the sweat starts flowin.’ But hear this: I enjoy the protection of my masks … on so many levels.

What else? I am not even sure that some of my friends and colleagues will recognize me once I roam mask free. It’s been what years … since you have seen my whole face? And yeah … I “may” have aged just a bit over the last few <oh so many> months.

Who’s with me?

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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