My Blog
I’m Jeanmiree van der Werf
My dad’s stories sparked my imagination, and my husband’s belief in me reignited my courage. After years of doubt, I’m finally embracing my fearless eight-year-old self. I’m done playing small—ready to shine (metaphorically, of course). Let’s grow and dream big together!
La Cosa Mas Bella
When I was about seven years old, my mom bought a CD, also known as a compact disc. It was very popular in the 90's. This time, she brought home the CD of this man who sung strangely. I couldn't stand his voice, but my parents seemed to love him. "What was wrong with...
Tijd Voor de Billeshake
Disclaimer: If you are closed-minded, see things only in black and white, and lack critical thinking, this article is probably not for you. But if you disagree, please share your thoughts with me. On an early Thursday, I put on the radio on my way to my mother's...
No Internationals (Sorry) (Part 2)
By the end of July, when it was almost time to leave, my sister was still without a roof above her head. For a moment, we did think we got help from an online consultant for students who also helps students with housing; in the end, they basically robbed my sister for...
No Internationals (sorry) (Part 1)
Yes, it's that time of the year again. Soon the big blue bird will take the kids on their new journey. You know how you always hear the characters complain in movies about leaving home, and how it will never be the same, and that everything will change? Well, they got...
When You Leave a Job
They say quitting a job is as painful as breaking up with a partner. The first time I heard that, I was baffled. I never could have imagined people comparing those things with each other. Work is work; you do a job and get paid for it. That was my initial thought. The...
I Named My Ken Doll After This Famous Mexican Actor
Last weekend I helped my mom with some mopping. I stalled as long as I could by scrolling through meaningless online content. Hoping that she wouldn't barge into the room screaming. She'll find out why it took me so long to finish while reading this story. I started...
Rose’s Audacity
In the film Titanic (1997), this scene always struck me. Rose looks Jack right in the eyes. She was already inside the lifesaving boat, inches away from safety. They look at each other; it's bittersweet because they must let go of something beautiful. But let's be...
I Didn’t do my Last Article Justice
Dear Diary, Last week I wrote something at the last minute. I didn't do it impulsively. I let my husband read it. He said not to change a thing. Still, I felt something was missing. You know me better, and you know exactly the parts I left out, and with good reason. I...
Hooiberg
Awe mainta mi a bay subi Hooiberg y mi a bin realisa cu bida ta manera subimento di Hooiberg (pa esnan cu tin hopi tempo sin subi’e anto). Bo ta yega cu speransa y determinacion pero asina cu bo cuminsa dal e prome pasonan cu tur e confiansa di mundo bo lo cuminsa...
I don’t care (anymore)
Dear Diary, Let me tell you what happened the past two weeks because you weren't the only one worried for me. I was worried for myself, to be quite honest. Nothing drastic; I just don't want to get sick due to all my stress. The last time I wrote you, I was emotional,...