Save money with fall styles at Marshalls

76 Comments

1. When I checked in after church to enjoy my usual Sunday dinner with you I missed seeing a post, but assumed it was just because of the move. My heart aches to know that you were attacked so viciously. Human decency is in short supply these days, and that sort of hatred has no place in the tightknit, respectful community that you’ve built on these pages. Don’t let the trolls steal your joy. I’m finding that particularly in this election year steering clear of any discussion of politics is my best option. I inadvertently made what I thought was a neutral comment at a friend’s birthday dinner this week, but apparently it offended another guest whom I had just met. I don’t feel like our country has ever been so divided over politics in the past, and I pray daily for our nation to reconcile our differences peacefully. Keep being the bright, shining light you are, whether discussing your personal convictions or the latest in fall fashion offerings. I and so many others will be here to support you.

2. Thanks Lorri! It is sad when one non-political word cannot be discussed without evil retribution. But no one can steal my God given joy. I wanted to add that I join you in that prayer for our nation!

3. I missed your post yesterday-assumed you were resting from the stresses of moving. That is terrible about the attacks on you personally. It is an attack on decency. Please keep on doing what you are doing. You are not alone.

4. Bless you, Cheryll. I am here and plan to be here. I am so thankful for this audience.

5. It is amazing how many trolls there are that are filled with hate. Keep being you. Even though I don’t always agree with you I enjoy reading about life from your perspective. Stay strong and don’t let them get you down.

6. Thanks, Crystal. They haven’t gotten me down and I would never allow them to stop me from being me. Thank you so much.

7. Like Lorri I look forward to joining you after church for Sundays in Texas. I also assumed you were knee deep in moving tasks. I am so sorry that you were attacked in this way. I can’t understand why people feel they can say vicious things while hiding behind fake identities. Don’t let them stop you from feeling your joy. Yes, our joy is in the Lord. And thanks for reminding us that Marshall’s is a great place for fall decor. I love decorating for all and after seeing the photo of the pumpkins I’m headed for Marshall’s while the selection is still good. Happy Monday and remember we love and support you.

8. I, too, thought you took a day off b/c of your move. I’m so sorry this happened to you–sooo not fair. You’re one of the most sweet, caring ladies on the internet. // On to this post, you have a gift for finding things in Marshalls that look high end. The floral sweater with the vest is so lovely on you.

9. Oh, gosh. I thought you were busy with your move. It is such a shame that politics have become so divisive. Growing up, I didn’t even know who my parents voted for and I don’t remember them having any political conversations with their wide circle of friends. I mentioned that to a cousin recently and he said that was ‘shallow’. My parents (his generous aunt and uncle) were anything but shallow. Anyone who truly knows you should also know what the word ’joy’ means to you and your family. It is written all over your faces. It is underlying in every word you write. So sorry that people target beautiful blogs like yours that bring joy to your faithful readers. Don’t they have anything better to do? They should go shopping at Marshall’s. Great choices!

10. Thank you so much, Kathie! Have fun n pumpkin shopping! I am taking all my fall decor with me!

11. Thanks, Kim. I love to treasure hunt at Marshalls. It’s fun shopping and it was packed the day I stopped by!

12. I missed you yesterday and the post but thought you were busy with the move. These people are bullies in my opinion and don’t deserve our attention. They are everywhere today. I am being inundated with ads that pop up randomly through my email account; if it keeps up I will create a new email account. Keep up the good work Pam; know that many are here for you and your messages of joy!

13. Ha, ha…yes, they should go shopping at Marshall’s! I grew up in a house with a Republican father and Democrat mother. The discussions were lively and I always heard both sides!

14. I also missed looking for yesterday’s post until this morning and thought there was no Sunday post because of your move. So sorry you had to let the mean words of more than a few cause you to take the post down. Shame on the anonymous posters who will not show their “faces” but use words to discourage you (and us as followers). No one can take away your true joy and make it meaningless. “The joy of the Lord is my strength.”

15. Thanks, Linda. After teaching high school and meeting true bullies…you are right.., these people are bullies in every sense of the word.

16. Amen! No way can they take that from me. I prayed for them. How sad to have that be your mission each day to seek and destroy!

17. So sorry for what happened to you Sunday. I also assumed you were busy with your pending move. We are living in a very difficult time with such hatred and unwillingness to respect others boundaries. Control was likely their motive. It’s just as simple as that. Once you recognized they are the one with the problem you had the power to do something about it. You did that, you blocked them! Although their comments must have been so hurtful and uncalled for, you made the decision to protect your followers from their comments. For that, we thank you.

18. Your joy is a bright light for us all. Faith will keep you strong. Thank you for all you do. Love the Marshalls post. So affordable and in style with choices for everyone! Also like their shoes and accessories department plus skin/bath care, etc.

19. So sorry this happened to you! Please continue your joyful messages and know you are appreciated by so many!!!

20. Like Lorri and Cheryll, I also missed the post entirely and chalked it up to the move. What a mean way to treat someone so very sweet!
    Thanks for today’s post as it reminds me to make time to get over to Marshall’s. That vest was super cute, and it is time to re-stock on gift bags here as well.
    Have a lovely Monday! 💕

21. Soo sad I’m glad we are normal and they are just driven by Satan.
    He blinds the minds of unbelievers and loves to stir up hate! Yes stay strong and we are joyful!! Love your positivity!!

22. You are God’s messenger to me and His Holy Spirit pours over me😇❤️ natural tendencies are to attack someone when they have that inner peace that no one can take away when your heart is full. I pray for our world but more so I pray for Joy in all of our good blessings. Let’s focus on positive and not the negative I always say🤣♥️
    Admire you so! Sandra Winfield

23. You are welcome, Janet. I would not want any of you to face that ugliness when you had nothing to do with it.

24. I agree, Mary Jane. I get my hand soaps there in beautiful containers and so inexpensive. Great shoe department…you are right!

25. Thank you, Jen. The joy will keep coming!

26. The savings on gift wraps and cards is truly amazing. I also always look through the kids clothes for grandchildren. Thanks for your affirmation, Connie.

27. Thanks sweet, Debra!

28. Oh my! You have a hard job because you alone are responsible for this blog. I reap the benefit from your positive spin on life, your research into things that you feel we might share an interest in, your insights, your experience. You feel like my friend and it hurts me when others attack you and belittle you. I have no idea what your political leanings are, and I appreciate that you have chosen to leave politics out of your blog. Facebook has quite enough. I think my blood pressure would have been quite elevated had I read yesterday’s comments. So, thank you for protecting us by removing the post. On a side note, I do plan to not use my name when posting any longer as I certainly do not want these trolls following me. It appears civility and human kindness are becoming more and more rare. Now, a smile and a hug for you, and God’s peace, dear Pam <3.

29. Thank you, LA! I so hope that doesn’t happen to any of my followers…that truly would be awful. Thank you for being here.

30. I used to enjoy politics, and our family had lively, respectfully diverging discussions around the dinner table. Now I’m one of those who asked you not to be political on the blog, and I’m so glad you are not. I didn’t see the post, but I trust your word about it, and regardless, no one should ever write or send something they are unwilling to sign and stand behind. And of course, there is no reason to deliberately personally attack someone. I don’t think they won. You were in control of the decision to remove the post out of kindness to your followers, and you are right back here, unbowed, this morning. You do a great job. I read your lifestyle posts, but I do prefer the fashion. I enjoyed your try on today.

31. Thanks Linda. Glad you hear! Fashion goes on!

32. I did look for your post yesterday because the Sunday post is one of my favorites. It is a shame that everything has to be steered towards the political viewpoint. I know you are definitely not doing that and you seem to be very apolitical. You have to endure a lot of vicious comments so thank you for continuing your blog. I think this is going to get worse as we move forward to the election.
    Anyway I’m looking forward to seeing the Sunday post. We have to continue to have Joy in our hearts.

33. I never comment, but felt I must reach out and tell you that you are SO appreciated by so many. Do not let the hateful losers quiet your joyful lovely approach to life. Thank you for sharing with your blog!!!

34. Dear Pam: I echo all that everyone has said about the positive impact your blog has had on me. I was worried yesterday that something had happened to you and in a way it had. Grateful that you did take down the mean spirited and hurtful comments. I also pray that the tremendous divisiveness we are experiencing in the political realm can be lessened. In terms of Marshalls for me it’s a little hit or miss. I have found some great buys there but sometimes nothing seems quite right or worth the money. As long as you understand it’s a bit of a treasure hunt, it can be fun.

35. Hi Pam,
    I just read a few comments that you received from your blog friends. I was hoping you were okay and I too thought you were knee deep into packing for your big and up and coming move.
    It’s so hard for me to understand why anyone would attack you over the word Joy, in my mind it can mean whatever is important and communicates how we are feeling and the positive affirmation it gives us. I guess the people that decided to attack you personally do not have a song to sing in their hearts. Thank goodness we all see things differently. How boring it would be that everyone always sees things as we do. This can make for stimulating conversation.
    You are a special lady, you deserve better.
    Now, open your arms wide and give yourself a big hug.
    Sending you a lovely day. You have my ❤️

36. I did see the post and I don’t think how it was presented Sunday is quite same as you are presenting it today. I cant remember your actual statement but I think it included some skepticism about posting it on your part like maybe you knew there may be some criticism forthcoming. In reading it I immediately thought to myself she’s Republican because a Democrat wouldn’t feel that the joy being experienced was a political message, in my opinion it was something that happened organically. It was unfortunate and I truly thought you may post an apology for those who took offense in bringing politics into a shopping blog. It will all work out, life goes on, you lost some readers and you will gain some.

37. Sadly, I believe you are right. It is hard to have conversations with many veiwpoints these days.

38. Thank you, Lynn. I appreciate the support.

39. Exactly…it is a treasure hunt, Mary. I have stopped by many times and walked out with nothing. But, I do love a good hunt. Thank you so much for your kind words.

40. Love a good hug, Katherine. I have many friends that we are different and think in different ways…and I love them. The ones shutting down the conversations may just be lighting a fire storm of more conversation…I hope so any way.

41. Hi Barbara, at first the response was reasonable and presented other sides, but it turned ugly fast. It spread to other channels. You did not see the venom, because I blocked it from sight and eventually decided to remove the post so that the venom would cease. I did not mention a politician or a political party, just that JOY was being used as a gimmick and it was. As I said today, all politics uses gimmicks, but I spoke out for a word that is foundational in my life and that is not given to us by any human…and did not want anyone to think I agreed with that interpretation since I use the word often. I am not going to apologize. I am a lifestyle blogger who mostly blogs about fashion, but my audience know that on Sundays I write a lifestyle post. I am not going to apologize for a comment that lead to VENOM being shot at me by bullies.
    Apologizes from bullies would be nice though. If I lost readers over defending the true meaning of joy, that is fine.

42. So sorry to hear people sent you mean comments. I like to read of your Joy.

43. Thank you, Jan…and I love to share it.

44. First of all here are my “credentials”:
    Saved, baptized, lifelong Republican

    I was shocked and saddened by your Sunday post and your comments regarding joy. I was planning on sending you a long and thoughtful response and asking you to consider a retraction of sorts.

    Because you elected to remove it we now have no way of “evaluating” it for ourselves, just your subsequent reactions to some of your readers.

    What I do remember is that you seemed to take offense that a certain party was “campaigning on joy.” Of course that is a straw man argument because no one is “campaigning on joy.” However, I would think that you, of all people, would love it if they were. But nope, your premise, as I remember it, ( which , again, you have removed) was that unless someone is in your particular brand of Christianity, their joy is merely happiness, because your joy comes from the Lord. The Jesus I serve gives joy to all people everywhere.

    Perhaps you took offense at the look of pure joy that was on the face of Gus Walz, who with tears streaming down his face, said, “that’s my dad, I love him.” When a 17 year old son with special needs showed that kind of joy at the DNC, some Republicans called it weird. I think the Walz family are Lutheran, so maybe some would say they only know happiness not joy.

    I know you devoted a blog post raking me over the coals for SUGGESTING you consider tucking in your shirt, and then you later put out an apology. Perhaps you can search your heart and do the same on this issue.

    No one has a monopoly on joy.

    Peace out sister,
    C

45. I’m also not one to usually leave comments but wanted to let you know how much I enjoy your Sunday posts and am saddened that people would be so hateful. I know you won’t let them get you down and I’m eagerly awaiting your upcoming posts on your move and life in your new city. Thanks too for the tip on fall decorations at Marshalls. I often forget about that store so I appreciate the reminder.

46. Thanks! Sunday posts will continue.

47. I’m very sorry you were verbally attacked. We are living in divisive times. Past maps and current experiences color one’s views. More color can be added when others share their views with us and what influenced them. When one shares, I perceive it as a gift. You share milestone events, hurdles and beliefs, needs and wants. Thank you. It adds depth to fashion needs and wants for the bulk of us as we move through life for the every day and milestone events with consideration to the size of our wallets, among many other things. Sadly, a growing number of people appear to demonize those with beliefs and views that differ from what they hold. They act with superiority. But, they are not the arbiter of truth or what is right and have no authority to suppress or disparage another’s beliefs. I did not read the blog some responded to in a bullying manner. But, I know your body of work to be helpful and always with the best of intentions.

48. My goodness! We are living in a time where different points of views are dismissed as being wrong. If someone expresses their beliefs and they differ from another person, they are wrong. The instinct to insult, name calling, and to argue is strong. Kindness and civility are missing in many arenas. It is sad and such a shame. Pam, no doubt what you felt was a personal attack is so hurtful. After reading these affirming and supportive comments, I hope you feel better.

49. Hi Chris, thanks for stopping by. I said nothing about campaigning on joy. I did say it was a gimmick used to say that government grants joy and I believe governments go not grant joy but rather govern to pursue happiness. I have written before about the difference between joy and happiness. I stand by my interpretation of joy and I stand by that in this case no apology is necessary from me. I was glad to apologize to you on a fashion discussion this is not the same.

50. I think the reason some people don’t like shopping at Marshall’s is because it is a treasure hunt. Good prices and cute finds can’t be beat. Not all clothes have to be displayed on mannequins to entice you to buy them. We need to ignore the hurtful comments as we can’t always please everyone. It would be nice if people would keep their negative thoughts to themselves.

51. I think anyone who is called those names would know they were personal attacks. This audience is kind and I was protecting them from the ugliness. Just a few sentences about one word and its proper meaning.

52. I agree, Judy that not everyone likes a treasure hunt. I just want those who are seeking affordable finds to know about Marshall’s. Thank you for being here.

53. Thank you, Peggy. The readers here are amazing!

54. I’m beginning to not understand people~~some people! You’re too nice a person to have to endure this trolling. What is wrong with them?
    I’m sorry you had to go through this ugliness.
    Well, I too enjoy our Marshall’s- especially for holiday decor! My storage area of our basement can vouch for this! Lol. And yes their fashion is worth a look too!
    I’m hoping the rest of this week is wonderful….my two youngest Grands~ Ben and Baylee are off to school~ First Day on Thursday!

55. Ben & Baylee! How cute! All of mine are now in school. You should see the decoration boxes I am moving with me…not yet ready to let go! Thanks for your sweet words, Paulette!

56. Hmmmm….too bad you deleted your post, and they I didn’t do a screen shot of it. Perhaps some of your other readers did and can share it here. I distinctly remember you posted “campaigning on joy.” You might want to verify that.
    And that you had some reservations about posting it.
    Peace out sister,
    C

57. I received and read your JOY post. It was appropriate, true to you, it said nothing wrong, and it resonated. About 35 years ago, in a not great marriage, I decided in the middle of the night while crying on the sofa, that no one was ever going to control me again and make me miserable. From then on, I made the daily decision to be happy, despite exterior pressures. What a difference. The marriage ended soon after. Every day we have a choice on how we feel when we awaken. I vote for happy, content, and secure. It’s not even a conscience thought any more. Keep up the JOYous work!

58. Pam,your blog is so informative and inspirational! I have been following you for several years and I look forward to reading it everyday. You are a very kind and caring person and I am sorry you had to put up with nasty people on the blog and social media. What cowards!

59. Of course, I had reservations…I am well aware (even more now) of the current political climate…but here is what is important:
    1. I write a weekly lifestyle post on MY blog called Summer Sundays in Texas.
    2. I have regular followers on that day…many who are like minded…and have enjoyed my many posts on where JOY comes from and how important it is to our lives.
    3. At the bottom of that post, I made a short comment on the misuse of the word Joy in politics…yes, knowing there might be a few push backs…and again, I welcomed those reasonable conversations.
    4. Someone read that and spread the word.
    5. Trolls who probably do not read my regular posts came after me with vicious, malicious comments that any person would find objectionable.
    6. I am NOT going to apologize for what I wrote on my blog to my followers about gimmicks currently used in political campaigns.
    Peace Out Chris

60. I love this, Judith. You described that deep Joy from God that does not falter no matter what is happening around us. Thank you for sharing your snippet with us. I appreciate it so much.

61. Thank you, Denise. I want to assure everyone that on my end, this is over today. I have a fashion post for you tomorrow that I hope you will enjoy. We are going to smile, take one day at a time, and put the ugliness behind us.

62. I am deeply troubled by the hatred & vitriol that seems to abound everywhere I look. I refuse to engage in any political discussions because of how quickly it can take a nasty turn. I am truly sorry you were subjected to this. You have worked hard to make this a place of kindness & joy. I know your faith will keep you strong.
    Now, to get back to today’s post. I am so looking forward to decorating for fall, & the pieces from Marshall’s are so festive. I always find something good at Marshall’s sister store, Home Goods.

63. I love Home Goods as well, Becky! Marshalls is closer in location to me, but I do stop by Home Goods when I can. I have a fun week for us…moving on with joy!

64. I am so sorry, Pam, that you were the victim of these personal, deeply inappropriate attacks. We all need to use our words to explain and connect and to reach out over the gulfs that divide us.
    That said, I find joy to a perfect word the way it is used in the current political conversation. It means moving forward with cheer and hope, doing work—God’s work really—of making the world better and feeling empowered through (good) change and inclusiveness.
    It’s very close in spirit I think to what the late and godly man John Lewis meant by “good trouble”—working and insisting on creating a better democracy.
    It’s all the same joy really as what you talk about. Joy cometh in the morning!

    Good luck with your move. I just went through something similar but that’s a subject for another letter. You have beautiful taste and I’m certain that will be reflected in your new home.

    Debirsh

65. Oh Pam, thank you for sharing. I am So sorry someone was not being kind. We should be able to share ideas and discussions. My iews are different from yours- but as I tell my friends here “in the Rockies ” you are entitled to your view and me to mine. We agree to disagree!! Joy and Blessings.
    Love your finds at Marshall’s! I will go by tomorrow. I must replace a few items!
    Thinking of you as you pack . Hugs from Wyoming!

66. Wow! I will add that I am a Jew that rarely gets to Temple anymore as it is 50 miles away. I’m a Democrat. I love your blog! I love that you do not push a political ideology or a specific religion. I know you are a joyful person that gains much from your faith and it is beautiful to hear about it in a general way. I’m very spiritual in my own way and try to live a life of kindness. It is terrible and terrifying that trolls attacked you in such a personal way. I have read that foreign governments have used bots to manipulate our people and attack people for expressing personal views and opinions. Certain words trigger a response in their computers and millions of replicating messages of hate go out to divide us. I’m not going anywhere. I love you and your column and look forward to your blogs every single day.
    Sydney Haskell

67. Pam, I didn’t see your Sunday post. But I find it hard to believe it was controversial. If using the word campaign is only defined as political we are more polarized than I realize. I am scratching my head today wondering how this country has become so polarized and hateful. It’s such a shame . I really don’t expect to see the country healed anytime soon, sadly.

68. So sorry you went through something similar, Deborah. Be strong!

69. Love Wyoming…such a beautiful state! Yes…we are all different and should be able to discuss topics and learn from one another. I have so much inside that I would love to share, but now will not.

70. That could be Sydney…I would rather think the attacks are bots than actual people!

71. The hope in me would love to believe it could be, but sadly, Nancy, I also don’t see it happening anytime soon. The influences to divide us are too deep. But we can always hope.

72. Well it’s all just super weird. I didn’t see the post but did wonder if AI was used. Many people do seem quite comfortable saying negative, personal comments in social media that they would never say face to face. It’s illustrative of the lack of civility and polite manners of society in general.

    I hope you bought the off white sweater with the sleeve embellishment and the fluffy vest. Beautiful colors for you.

    I was behind in reading your posts. The largest town near where I grew up was about the same size as Abilene, and helped support the surrounding smaller ag communities. My guess is you’ll find opportunities to wear your dressier clothing but will need more things like the sweater and vest you showed today and fewer of the flowy caftan type pieces. I did think the bungee dresses were quite neat. You have such slim legs, and I love seeing you wearing some of the closer fitting pants in recent posts. They flatter you so much. Can’t think of a specific bc I went thru a couple weeks all at once.

73. Hi April, I did not buy that outfit because I have purchased two new vests lately. I agree with you about that style being one I may wear often. Now I have four vests for different looks. The one at Marshall’s is really pretty.

74. I love the sweater with the flowers! Great colors for you, and so fun. While watching some of the DNC, I felt the word joy was used to express happiness that the campaign was no longer between two old men, but rather a younger and energetic candidate with energy was excited to run and much of the country was happy that a “peaceful transition of power” was executed, and the election was a new ball game. I have never thought that Joy was God given, but I will think about that. I am so sorry that you were attacked…how horrible. I read you because you are so positive, so kind, and so full of joy! I wish all the best and hope you can quickly put this behind you. xoxoxo

75. Hi Nancy, it is from several references in the Bible. Understanding the Word of God helps to understand the belief. Thanks for being here. And it is behind me!

76. You are so special, Sandra! Thank you!

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