Danielle Ternyila – writer, creator
I’m excited to share my story and wisdom, as well as the inspiring stories of so many strong women I have met along my way. I have been wanting to launch this positive mindset blog and community since around 2018, but better late than never!
In 2016, I was depressed, miserable, and need to find happiness again. While focusing on my mental health and getting back up again after ending a toxic and abusive relationship, I needed to lose weight too, and I wanted to do it in the healthiest way I could. It was not without the support of my mama, my incredible family, friends, and countless online support groups that I was able to lose 60-lbs within 1 year and get my life back on track!
My journey doesn’t start, nor end, there. I look forward to sharing more of my stories with you, from buying my first international plane ticket at 13 and publishing my first novel at 15, to becoming the first college graduate in my family and traveling the world for a career I love, there are so many stories I look forward to sharing in hopes of someone else finding some wisdom that can help them in their lives.
I know that I wouldn’t be where I am today without the support I have in my life, and I want to help build a bigger community for us to come together and support each other. I have found so much help, and even comfort, in support groups online throughout my journey, be it for weight-loss, anxiety, or just a group of fellow dog moms!
The most important lesson I have learned is that you must live the life you love to love the life you live. At so many points in my life, I wondered if I could ever experience real happiness, and I’ve come to learn that it is completely up to me. If I’m not happy with something, I need to make the change and follow my heart, because in the end, that’s what is going to make me happiest. Nothing should matter more than your own happiness, and that is so dependent on your mental AND physical health.
Meet Dianna
My name is Dianna Yphantides, and I am a licensed social worker. I graduated from Rutgers’ Masters of Social Work Program in May 2019 and I absolutely love what I do. I am from Fair Lawn, NJ, and I love cats, hiking, nature and a good slice of pizza.
My favorite quote of all time is: “It’s always darkest before the dawn” by Thomas Fuller an english theologist because I believe that when we are in our darkest of places, there will be light at the end of the tunnel. That through pain and trials there will be growth and recovery.
Meet Terry
Hi, my name is Terry Ternyila, and I am Danielle’s mama. I know that is a weird introduction, but truthfully, it is one of the most important jobs I have had. My husband and I have been together for over 30 years, and we have 3 beautiful children, Danielle (26), Patrick (24), and Ashley (23). I enjoy weekends away with my husband, checking out antique shops and spending time with family.
I have spent more than half of my life being a wife and mother taking care of others but not taking care of myself. It wasn’t until the past five years or so that I have learned to put my health and wellbeing first. Danielle and I have always been each other’s cheerleaders in our lives, and it has made a huge impact on our success. There have been a lot of ups and downs in that journey and a lot of life lessons along the way; my hope is to use my life experiences to help others that may be struggling or just need more inspiration to keep it going.
“Life doesn’t get easier or more forgiving, we get stronger and more resilient.” That is my all-time favorite quote.
Meet Joanna
My name is Joanna Eaton, and I am a New Jersey artist equipped with an A.A.S in Advertising Design, experience beyond that degree & positive vibes! I enjoy creating identities & content for fresh brands as they begin to connect with their market–feeding off that entrepreneurial energy is always really great! I have experience in product photography, traditional & digital illustration! By day I am the Embroidery Manager at a local (but high volume) print shop, and by night you will find me making moves toward launching my own business for the first time…or treating myself to a yummy drink!
My favorite quote is “Go confidently in the direction of your dreams! Live the life you’ve imagined.” ― Henry David Thoreau
Just Your Best 