Preface
Welcome to My Journal
This isn’t about perfection — it’s about presence. These are the honest reflections of a woman in her late fifties, embracing life with love, gratitude, and grace.
These pages hold my world: my thoughts, hopes, and dreams; stories of self-discovery, small wins, and the occasional stumbles — always hopefully with the courage to rise again.
Jacqueline’s Journal is a place for kind hearts and curious souls — thoughts once private, now shared with anyone seeking truth, courage, and connection. If you’re looking for a gentle companion on your own journey of wellbeing and renewal, you’re in the right place.
I’m not a fitness influencer or lifestyle guru — just a woman who decided it was time to stop feeling stuck and start nurturing every part of herself: mind, body, and soul.
For years, I chased quick fixes, doubted my willpower, and compared myself to everyone else. One day, I realised that real change doesn’t begin with the diet or a number on the scales — it begins with how we talk to ourselves, how we treat our bodies, and how we care for our hearts.
Jacqueline’s Journal grew from that moment of awakening.
It’s my space to share the ups and downs of losing weight as a vegetarian on Slimming World, finding joy in gentle movement (even when running still feels impossible!), and learning to nurture kindness and resilience from within.
This journal isn’t about perfection — it’s about progress.
It’s about showing up for yourself, even on the messy days, and realising that self-care and self-compassion are acts of quiet rebellion in a world that tells women to shrink.
I believe every woman — especially in midlife — deserves to feel confident, connected, and at peace with who she is and who she’s becoming.
My hope is that as you read along, you’ll find something here that inspires you to honour your own journey — one mindful step, one nourishing meal, one kind thought at a time.
Throughout my career, I’ve dedicated myself to mental health, working full-time in both the NHS and the private sector. Though I’ve since retired from full-time work, my passion for helping others remains at the heart of who I am. Now, I work for myself a few days a week, supporting people online and in person, continuing the work that brings me joy and purpose.
I live in the heart of Sherwood Forest with my husband Andy, our Collie dogs Pip and Clark, our cats Billy, Slinks, and Suzy, and my beautiful little harvest mice. This home is my sanctuary — the place where I write, reflect, and recharge.
These days, some of my greatest joy comes from spending time with my grandchildren — whether we’re exploring nature trails, visiting local parks and theme parks, or simply sharing laughter over an ice cream. Those moments remind me what life’s really about: connection, curiosity, and joy in the everyday. I intend to write about those days out — small adventures filled with wonder, giggles, and muddy boots — and I hope they bring warmth and inspiration to others navigating midlife, family, and self-rediscovery.
Now retired, I finally have the time to enjoy the things I've always wanted to do.
I intend to sew, craft, make jewellery, paint, and explore my creative side. I will share my Pinterest dreams or where these dreams will collide with reality, in sharing my creations, you're either going to be in awe or shaking your head in disbelief!
You’ll find me flying my drone over our beautiful countryside or taking photographs of wildlife — a reminder of how much beauty there is when we slow down long enough to notice it.
I adore dog walking through the forest, discovering hidden trails, and breathing in the fresh air.
At home, I fill my aromatherapy diffuser, put on some great music, and feel grateful to just be.
And of course, there’s nothing quite like coffee, cake and conversation with friends — just a small slice these days (it’s how I ended up at Slimming World in the first place!).
Life now feels like a collection of moments — simple, beautiful, and real. And through this journal, I hope to share them with you.
So, welcome to my chapters written in my corner of the world in Sherwood Forest— a celebration of life, growth, creativity, and the gentle art of beginning again.
My tribe
