About Jiltaroo
I have been writing bits and pieces for a while now. I’m very disorganised so I thought a Blog was the best place to draw it all together. I have had an amazing and eclectic life so far; bursting with a crazy combination of experiences.
I have also written several (unpublished) children’s’ stories, have 4 boys of my own, dabble in art, was a Jillaroo for 4 years and have a degree in Accounting and Economics. Now that I write it all down, I can see why I am a bit of a nutter.
Oh yes and I’m starting a Nursing Degree next year.
My blog is written as a story (about me of course), so new readers will need to start from the first post (Galloping Feet on a Lonely Road) for it to make sense. I thought long and hard about where to start but I found that the only logical point was at the sexual abuse I suffered as a child. It wasn’t until recently that I started to understand the connections from this to the way I think, the decisions I have made and the places I have gone….it’s not all bad! And please do not think that just because I start here, it defines me. He never had that power over me. I have made my own way in life, I am proud of who I am, where I have been and where I am heading.
I hope you gain something from my Blog, whether it be a shared experience, empathy, knowledge or even just a link. Feel free to write a comment!
Related articles
- Neil Gaiman’s Writing Advice (silverbirchpress.wordpress.com)
Aug 09, 2012 @ 00:29:46
Great idea Jen – best to get it all out and share it with others – you have so much to give.
Aug 09, 2012 @ 00:50:24
Thank you Leanne. I always value your opinion.
Aug 13, 2012 @ 00:15:58
i’m miles behind in answering questions, but to answer how i found your space… i meet many interesting creative writers, poets, and photographers by using the wordpress reader selecting tags or categories i enjoy and find interesting…
or you may have left a comment on someone’s space i follow that i found interesting…
since i was brought up on a dairy farm, it could have been something you mentioned about a farm, or the knitting your grandmother enjoyed – we once had a receptionists from northern ireland – she taught me how to knit using pencils and string – i was able to teach my young daughter what she taught me, and my daughter, now grown up and moved away, can knit designer sweaters… i have many interests…
wordpress is a very interesting international community –
i write Haiku as a hobby, but after i retire, publishing manuscripts reflecting many of many of my interests and character studies will rise to the surface of my list to do…
thanks for sharing your – hope i answered your questions
David in Maine USA
Aug 13, 2012 @ 00:47:32
Thank you for your reply David. As you can see, I am very new to this and am amazed how my writing can be viewed around the world so quickly! I guess that’s the internet for you! I hope you continue to read my blog as I move through my life. As I mentioned in “About” it wont all be on this initial dark topic. I will probably include some of my own poetry at some point and definitely experiences as a Jillaroo in Central Queensland, Australia.
I love the fact that you learnt to knit with pencils and string and then were able to pass that simple piece of knowledge onto your daughter. I have started knitting many things but only ever finished blankets for my children.
Aug 20, 2012 @ 02:05:20
Jiltaroo having had you in my life as a freind, work colleage, party partner,etc has been one off the best things of my life. looking back on all the fun things we did and the jobs we had and places and people we met along the way are some of my best memories People out there our first meeting was at a thearter restraunt where I as the cook and Poor Jiltaroo as the new waitress found out that luckly my bark was not as bad as she first thought. Im sure she will get around to this part of her life and put it into words for all of you to enjoy as we did at the time. She will also proably correct all my spelling and gramer etc as she always has. There is also a story that go’s with this comment. She is my best freind and no matter how long between get togethers our freindship never changes just grows.
Aug 20, 2012 @ 02:15:59
Now that made me cry!!!! And yes I definitely will be getting to the memories you mention. And damn you Denise…I now have corrections in red pen scribbled all over my computer screen! No seriously, did I really do that? Lovely comment Denise and the feeling is entirely mutual. Love Jen xxx
Aug 20, 2012 @ 02:37:40
Yes You Did you once showed me the corrections to the letters that I had written you while we where droving and roustabouting. Have never laghed so hard only you would have done so. Oh and readers there was never any malis in what she did and no affence was ever taken she was so right never could spell or get the full stops and commers right
Aug 20, 2012 @ 02:41:59
Ha Ha what was I thinking!!
Aug 30, 2012 @ 00:03:53
Jiltaroo,
Oh… And I see you enjoy Neil Gaiman’s work!!
We are friends.
Le Clown
Aug 30, 2012 @ 00:09:03
Great! I’ll go and get les clown shoes. Ah but did you read the first post?
Aug 30, 2012 @ 00:09:53
Jiltaroo,
The first post… No, I haven’t. I guess I should, is that what you are telling me?
Le Clown
Aug 30, 2012 @ 00:11:05
It’s not very funny I’m sorry.
Aug 31, 2012 @ 22:47:05
What’s a Jillaroo? And what’s a Jiltaroo? Are you Australian? Should I the voice in my head sound Australian when I read?
Aug 31, 2012 @ 23:41:55
Ha ha…Yes!!!. You can put an Aussie twang in when you read my words to make it more authentic! A Jillaroo is a female Jackaroo (like a cowgirl in Australia). Thanks for asking I should clarify that in “About”
Sep 03, 2012 @ 08:00:20
Hi. Does that mean you’re an equestrian too? Is that what a Jackaroo does? I was a horsey girl before I began writing, but English saddle. I’m so glad I visited your blog. Thanks for checking in on mine. I didn’t realise your were Australian until now. Hope to see you again soon. GG
Sep 03, 2012 @ 08:10:30
I only just realized I hadn’t followed your blog properly. All fixed now. Your book sounds amazing – I love anything supernatural.
Sep 06, 2012 @ 15:45:55
Thanks for visiting my blog! We seem to have similar paths. I’ve written over 50 children’s books and recieved over 100 rejections. And that’s how I picked up art. I started my blog to challenge and use as a tool to hold myself accountable. Anyway thanks again for the positive words and I will let you know when my maze books drop.
Sep 06, 2012 @ 15:47:29
I would love to own one of those. It’s pretty special and unique.
Sep 06, 2012 @ 15:48:37
I sell prints and do originals!!!
Sep 06, 2012 @ 15:53:06
I’m about to move house so I will have a look then (I have to paint the walls). I would be proud to have one of your pieces on my wall. Do you send to Australia?
Sep 06, 2012 @ 16:12:46
I’ve never sent anything out of the states but Yes I can. If you go thru and see what you like and decided weather you want orginal or print I can send you pricing and shipping costs. Wow its so cool to be on the web and have people see my work world wide!
Sep 06, 2012 @ 16:15:22
It is and I’m so glad I have. Maybe there’s a market here. You should do a catalogue!
Sep 07, 2012 @ 05:32:49
Hi! Thanks for visiting my blog, yours is also awesome, will follow you to keep in touch.
Sep 23, 2012 @ 21:34:11
Hi, I’ve just come across your blog and read a few of your posts. I will start from the beginning when I have time. Your writing is very engaging, keep writing, I’ll definitely be back to read more! xx
Sep 23, 2012 @ 23:26:19
That is a lovely thing to say. I look for ward to your vists and comments. I haven’t written anything for over a wk as I have just moved house. Plenty to say though. Thanks a heap! Jen xx
Sep 23, 2012 @ 23:52:01
You’re welcome! I hope the move went well! xx
Sep 23, 2012 @ 23:56:27
It was exhausting. But I’m getting there!
Oct 30, 2012 @ 15:24:04
Hello J!!! Wow, powerful story…FOUR BOYS?????? omgosh. Your life sounds amazing and interesting, and like you came out of a bad situation a very powerful woman. Cheers to you!!! Cheers to your boys, your adventures and more writing!
Oct 30, 2012 @ 15:26:14
Wow, what an entry. I can feel your vibrancy from here (is that even a word?). Thank for reading….I’m not that powerful though. xx
Oct 30, 2012 @ 15:31:35
ummmmmmmmmmmmm…yes you are. You just are. YOU HAVE FOUR BOYS AND YOU HAVEN’T GONE MAD (completely) – and you are here and you are sharing your story. so…carry on.
Oct 30, 2012 @ 15:36:55
Damn you’re nice! I’m almost mad though. Working hard on it!
Oct 30, 2012 @ 15:47:18
I bet!! Hang in there!!!
Oct 30, 2012 @ 15:36:55
Damn you’re nice! I’m almost mad though. Working hard on it!
Nov 01, 2012 @ 15:21:02
Thank you very much for your touching comments on my blog, Jen! i stumbled upon your blog a short while ago, and i found myself reading post after post of various topics and heaviness… but always of the same graceful words and thoughtful reflections.
i very much appreciate you expressing that you’ve found a personal connection to some of my posts, and i look forward to continuing to follow your blog
Nov 01, 2012 @ 22:12:34
I’m glad you are enjoying reading my blog. The pain that you write about is very familiar to me. I will enjoy continuing to read your words too. Jen xx
Nov 01, 2012 @ 17:46:11
i’ve nominated you for the Very Inspiring Blogger Award! Please see this post for instructions: http://foolforethought.wordpress.com/2012/11/01/inspiring-blog-award/
Nov 01, 2012 @ 22:35:16
Hon this is lovely of you. To think that my words are inspiring is a great complement. I have just accepted this same award a week ago so I wont go through all of the nominations again, however, I shall thank you for for the nomination and link back to you as well as the initial award Jen xxxxxx
Nov 01, 2012 @ 22:18:10
You have been nominated!
http://clarkkent07.wordpress.com/2012/11/01/very-inspiring-blogger-award/
Nov 03, 2012 @ 01:05:46
Why thank you so much Clark! I’m truly flattered that you like my blog. I have been busy the last couple of days but will do a post in the next couple. (have been steaming off wallpaper!
Nov 03, 2012 @ 03:08:37
It was my pleasure my friend!
Nov 24, 2012 @ 08:01:28
Thanks for stopping by my blog! I’d like to read your stuff and definitely will soon. I’m so snowed under at the moment, though, with NaNoWriMo and the other stuff I’ve committed to, such as… life! I see Melbourne/Victoria/Australia feature in your tags. Do we share a city?
Nov 24, 2012 @ 08:04:09
Perhaps so! I am in Melbourne…you? And yes, it is really difficult getting around to reading blogs. Today is the first time I have done in in a long while. Good luck with Nano! Hope to hear from you again when things settle down.
Nov 24, 2012 @ 08:09:31
Yep. Outer east.
After Nano is finished, in the words of a certain Austrian/American actor turned governor turned actor, “I’ll be back”.
Gotta go – taxi run.
Cheers!
Nov 24, 2012 @ 08:25:44
Ha ha yes.
Nov 28, 2012 @ 22:25:00
Hi Jen, I’ve nominated you for the brilliant blogger award! You can read about it here: http://wp.me/p2DUBF-8S
xx
Nov 29, 2012 @ 04:40:29
That is so sweet of you. Thank you so much! xx
Nov 30, 2012 @ 00:34:52
You’re welcome
xx
Dec 03, 2012 @ 13:02:08
Dec 04, 2012 @ 00:44:00
That’s brilliant!
Dec 05, 2012 @ 11:47:26
Hey there friend! I have nominated you for the Very Inspiring Blogger Award.
Please see the link below if you wish to accept!
http://eyesforgaia.wordpress.com/2012/12/05/very-inspiring-blogger-award/
xxTina
Dec 05, 2012 @ 11:50:30
Tina, that lovely of you. Congratulations on your nomination! Hopefully you get the computer battery fixed soon! I love your photos. Jen
Dec 09, 2012 @ 06:57:46
thank you for visiting my blog wishing you all the best with yours and your nursing degree I am half way through my OT degree . its hard work, but I know will be worth it x
Dec 09, 2012 @ 07:34:31
Your blog is luscious. Are you really a Gemini? I am. Can’t you guess…my eclectic life. I need to update my status as although I have enrolled to do Nursing,I have just been offered the job to end all. In Accounting. That is hilarious, thought I would never go back there!
Dec 09, 2012 @ 11:23:54
Hey..yes I am a Gemini for sure..quite eclectic too. I was in banking for years before I decided upon a health career. I am glad you liked my blog, have you seen the other one too. I look forward to reading more of yours Xx
Dec 09, 2012 @ 23:13:05
I think Gemini is one of the most recognizable signs…maybe I’m biased. Although it’s obvious from the name of your blog, your experiences and talents scream out TWINS. I will have a look at your other blog…another side of you?
Dec 10, 2012 @ 00:49:11
yes i am a true Gemini..and i had twins on my birthday!!! I have two blogs as I thought my first one was getting a bit eclectic lol. i am thinking of just going back to one again, but keep changing my mind! xxx
Dec 10, 2012 @ 00:53:22
That is amazing wow! You cannot get more Gemini than that. When is your birthday? Mine is 17/6
Dec 10, 2012 @ 08:43:49
I know..I like your passion for who you are and I too have that and love the strength and versatility of the Gemini star sign. My birthday is 5/6 The number 5 is my lucky number and often comes up as a significant date in my life. X
Dec 10, 2012 @ 09:37:54
You can’t get much more significant than twins on your birthday! xx
Dec 09, 2012 @ 14:34:41
You have been nominated, girl!
http://ericmvogt.wordpress.com/2012/12/08/i-have-been-nominated-for-the-leibster-award/
PS- I have a couple of corgis that act like wild dingos, but I amm sure they would love to help with herding Down Under or anywhere else for that matter!
Dec 09, 2012 @ 23:14:34
This is truly an honour! Thank you Eric. I’d love to see those little legs trying to keep up with the mob. lol
Dec 10, 2012 @ 00:54:32
So what is a Jillaroo? Can I be one too? I love the sound of it.
How brave of you to face sexual abuse and stare it down. You didn’t let it define you . . . you made it an obstacle overcome. Good for you! Can’t wait to read more from you.
Dec 10, 2012 @ 00:56:24
Perhaps I need to explain that in “about”. In Aussie we have Jackaroos who are stockmen. A Jillaroo it the female version.
Dec 11, 2012 @ 00:38:12
I would like to thank you for stopping by blog and having a look. Come back any time and as often as you like. I look forward to reading your work and following your stories.
Dec 11, 2012 @ 02:59:00
It’s a pleasure to meet you…and same goes for me and your blog!
Dec 11, 2012 @ 07:04:43
P.S. if you have any ideas let me know. would love to hear them.
Dec 11, 2012 @ 07:11:30
OK will ponder this!
Dec 13, 2012 @ 03:50:33
It is nice to meet you too…I look forward to reading your life story. I will start with day one…I heard we are to get bad weather Sunday, so it sounds perfect to get my cuppa and read while I am relaxing.
Blessings – Patty
Dec 13, 2012 @ 03:57:23
Lovely to have you here Patty. I hope my writing keeps you engaged! jen xx
Dec 14, 2012 @ 12:34:29
Dec 15, 2012 @ 11:34:01
Hi there! Congratulations! You’ve been nominated for a blog Award!
To end the mystery about the type of award, follow this link: http://richardleonard.wordpress.com/2012/12/15/the-very-inspiring-blogger-award/
Dec 15, 2012 @ 12:24:20
Wow, Richard…but we only just met! I’m very flattered. Thank you!
Dec 16, 2012 @ 00:58:30
It was a few weeks ago now. It’s a fast world we live in
Keep it up!
Dec 16, 2012 @ 01:12:40
It means a lot. xx
Dec 21, 2012 @ 13:02:56
Jan 04, 2013 @ 11:12:20
Hi, out of curiosity, is your name Jen? I know it’s late but I nominated you for the “Blog Of The Year” award. Check it out:
http://writersfield.wordpress.com/2013/01/04/blog-of-the-year-2012-award/
Feb 03, 2013 @ 04:47:27
Hi Jen,
I recently met your brother at the helm of the Southern Swan. What a small world!
Mar 11, 2013 @ 01:10:51
I nominated your blog for the Liebster Award, you can check out the details on my blog! http://jenniburkeyoga.wordpress.com/2013/03/11/round-two-liebster/
Mar 13, 2013 @ 14:53:34
its been too long since i heard from you! hope everything is ok x
May 15, 2013 @ 11:56:42
Not writing much these days???
May 16, 2013 @ 09:27:11
No! Terrible isn’t it. I will get back to it though – I have a lot more to write. Started full time work and had a few things going on. I’ll get back to it some time soon. Jen
May 16, 2013 @ 09:47:52
That means you are busy and doing good with your life
You are missed on WordPress, hope to read your posts soon.
May 16, 2013 @ 18:41:16
Your blog is truly amazing. I like your writings and so I nominate your for the Sunshine Blogger Award. The link to my blogpost is http://ethicalhedonism.wordpress.com/2013/05/16/need-some-more-sunshine/
Cheers!!