12.29.2016

Guess Who's Back?!

Hey all! It's been a while, and during my time away, life has changed quite a bit. There's been a divorce, a move, a job change, a new haircut, a few new tattoos and piercings, lots of lifestyle changes, a ton of self-discovery, an even more ornery child than before, and a new boyfriend and bonus daughter. Whew! It's a lot to think about, isn't it? And while the ride has definitely been bumpy, there have been some amazing high points, and it's all been for the best. Now that I've had some time to refocus, let's get reacquainted.

If you've been here before, you're likely accustomed to reading about my adventures with food. While I still love sharing and discussing food and recipes and will continue to do so, my life these days has refocused on being more intentional. I'd like to invite you to join me as I continue on this journey.

Since moving all of my worldly possessions to a different house two years ago, I've slowly and methodically evaluated each item to determine it's value in my life. I've rid my life of so much physical "stuff", and with it, so much emotional and mental "stuff" as well. I call this my pursuit of minimalism, simplicity, and intentional living...and it's definitely a pursuit. Some may enter my home and see barren walls and sparse furnishings...I see it as a work in progress. I see myself the same way.

You see, in the last two years, I've been struggling with anxiety. It ranges from what most of us know as "nerves" to full-blown fear of leaving my house. The best part: this varies from day to day, so it's...um...exciting, to say the least. I've got a great support team, though, and with their help, I'm learning to cope, manage, and heal.

*exhale* So that's that. Would you care to share what's new with you?

4 comments:

  1. It's wonderful to see you here,Alexis! I'm also happy to see that you're forging ahead with fierce determination in your new physical and emotional environment. I'm also a writer/foodie, AND have suffered a bit of agoraphobia, mostly in my car! Weird, huh?

    Cooking, researching recipes and food preparation techniques is usually my vehicle for relaxation. The "usually" refers to the times I'm cooking with my husband. Sometimes this creates a hostile kitchen environment! Anyway, I'd love to blog along with you in foodie/agorophobic solidarity!

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  2. Thank you so much for your kind and encouraging words! You are so kind :)

    I had no idea you also suffered from forms of anxiety :( I hate hearing that other people struggle like I do, but I hope to share some of my struggles here and start a dialog. We can't heal if we don't discuss it.

    Can we get together and swap writings sometime? Maybe a weekend lunch sometime? And we've been talking about getting together with you guys to have dinner again as well! Hope to see you soon, friend!

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    1. The dashboard changed here, and it's taken me forever to find who I'm following, but here I am! I have no where near the anxiety you describe, but ANY anxiety can be debilitating and even infuriating!

      Let us know when you're back in the Lou, so that we can get together! We'll happily cook for you, sans any kitchen violence!

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    2. Infuriating is an understatement!

      I'll check our calendar and find some time to get together :)

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