Club Forty and Me… A year on

I’ve had a case of writer’s block these last couple of weeks…

It’s been A YEAR since I launched Club Forty!!! And I have wanted to write a poignant post about how I’m feeling and where I’m at on this milestone anniversary. Some inward reflection has taken place, but also a lot of procrastination! So with the end of June fast approaching, I’ve kicked myself up the bum and got my shit together to write this post.

Club Forty
I absolutely love writing this blog! Club Forty has changed everything for me. It’s given me a hobby, a creative outlet and the opportunity to indulge in something I love to do. As the saying goes “Do more of what makes you happy”. The fact that you seem to enjoy it too is just the icing on the cake. When I launched Club Forty last June with my first posts The Dungaree Debate and Orphaned at 42, I never imagined that so many people would read it and be so supportive. I am incredibly grateful to every single one of you who reads, comments and shares my posts.

I do feel that there are opportunities to do more with Club Forty… but I haven’t entirely worked out what more looks like yet.  Club Forty branded clothing is coming (watch this space!) and a Club Forty event is also in the pipeline. But mostly, I’ve enjoyed this year of honing my writing and blog posting skills, scouring the stores for new trends and bargains, cultivating a following and finding my ‘tribe’. The growth of the blog has so far been entirely organic, so maybe it’s time to adopt a more focused plan…

Instagram has not only played a massive role in building Club Forty, but it has boosted my confidence too. Posting (almost) daily outfit photos has really helped me identify my style and enjoy the way I look – I’m even posting side profile pics now!!! Connecting with a widespread community of 40-something, like-minded, stylish ladies has provided me with heaps of inspiration and support. If you don’t already follow me, then I would love you to @clubforty.claire

What I have always wanted to achieve with Club Forty is to empower and support women. Sharing my love of fashion is not just an indulgent activity. I really hope to inspire others who may lack confidence to try a new style or trend. Even if I simply provide a service to those who haven’t the time to go clothes shopping themselves, then that makes me happy. I am a people-pleaser!

Me
So when I started the blog a year ago, I was pretty low. As you all know, I was in the depths of bereavement and trying to tackle the tide of emotions it brings. Well that hasn’t changed. Dealing with emotions has never been one of my strong points. But I am in a much brighter place where I feel I am shaking off the shackles and looking forward.

I still find it hard to think deeply about the loss of my parents. I still find it hard to believe that they are both gone. I am still angry that they suffered such debilitating illnesses that robbed them of their dignity. And I still miss them and the family life we had together.

Throwing myself into Club Forty was a welcome diversion at the time. Now that I have returned to work, life is back to being hectic and I am juggling plates once again. A perfect distraction from the business of inward-reflection, but also a great tonic for feeling vital and energised. But my ongoing note-to-self is not to run away… be brave.

So the future looks good. I feel positive. I feel stronger. I am excited about the next phase of Club Forty and where it may take me.

Happy 1st Birthday to Club Forty!

Thank you so much for sticking with me. I hope you will continue to follow and enjoy my posts and if there is anything you’d like me to write about or get involved in, then please drop me a note at claire@clubforty.co.uk