While sitting in the Greyhound bus terminal in Detroit, MI on my way to the Just My Size Style Symposium, I encountered so many interesting people. Due to a 2 1/2 hour delay, those encounters turned into conversations & those conversations morphed into networking opportunities.
During one of my many conversations, it occurred to me that everyone traveling had a purpose- a destination that they were on their way to. They were focused on their individual journey and nothing was going to stand in their way, not even a 2 1/2 hour delay. It was obvious that they were so grateful to be on their specific journey and this minor setback was nothing more than a chance to sit back, relax, gather thoughts and meet new people.
One woman in particular stuck out because she reminded me of someone that I either know or have met before. Her journey led her to the bus station because she was on her way to visit her boyfriend (a truck driver) in Ohio. Normally, she took the plane but this time she decided to take the bus because she was four months pregnant.
The next woman was an older woman headed to Ohio as well. She was originally from Detroit but work related business required that she travel to Toledo, Ohio for a week. Her initial facial expression suggested that she had a tough exterior but after talking with her, her smile revealed something completely opposite to me.
The last woman was in her early 20′s. At first it wasn’t clear what her journey was but while listening to her speak to another woman, it became obvious that she needed someone to talk to and for whatever reason, this was her chance.
Each of our paths (while different) are just as important as the next persons. No one is obligated to share their story but each month we have cover models, mothers, daughters, sisters, friends and men who share so much of themselves on this website.
This month we officially welcome Olga Gonzalez-Ramos back as our Lifestyle Editor. Throughout the month we will get re-acquainted with Olga and find out what she’s been up to. We will also use this as a chance to get to know the rest of our dedicated Editorial team.
As the weather continues to chill down we will discover new winter trends and revisit those trends with great staying power. The word trends aren’t reserved for fashion so we will discuss winter fashions, cultural news and lifestyle tips necessary for moving into the new season with ease.
Because our journey as plus size women is so important, we will turn the recent article by Maura Kelly into something positive. We’ve decided to introduce you to sitcoms that featured plus size actors or actresses in lead or supporting roles that you should become acquainted with. Many of the sitcoms listed in this article hold a special place in the hearts of plus size women 30+. It was through these shows that many “pleasantly plumped” young girls were introduced to characters that we could identify with.
As you get ready for Thanksgiving, we know the importance of crafting the perfect event so we’ve asked Denise Best of Blissful Elegance Events to share her secrets for planning the “Perfect” Plus Friendly Event.
Bringing this months features together is our cover model and interview feature Tina Tisby. This stunning model shares with us her journey thus far, her plan for the future, her favorite Thanksgiving dish and much more.
We are so grateful that you’ve decided to visit DailyVenusDiva.com on a daily basis. It is through your support that we are able to celebrate your individual journey of thriving in your curves.
Stephanie Penn-Danforth & The DailyVenusDiva.com Team


Hi Steph,
Loved your editor’s corner. I really felt the connection you made on that bus ride girl.
Would make a great theme for a curvy book.. my curves on the road to success.. think about it!!
I love to be back with Venus. Venus is not just a cyber thing for me. Venus Diva has a heartbeat, a voice that is soothing to me and comforting when all society did was scream at me for being fat.
Venus is the sister I never had and i feel safe around the walls of this magazine and community.
Love ya.
Olga
Whenever I’m traveling, I meet someone en route who has a story to tell that resonates with me. This time was perhaps not as deep as my usual – I got a small lecture about buying headphones from a Dad-figure on the plane – but other times, it can border on the spiritual. When having trouble in my marriage, I’d run into a woman older than me who, without knowing me, would share her experience in a similar situation. When feeling “stuck” writing, I’d come across another creative person who just found a way to get unstuck.
It’s kind of amazing. You’d also think, after such encounters, I’d learn to print business cards.