Life Updates, Taking Care Of Myself, and a New Zine?!?

Hello! :)

While this might not be your usual inbox read, I'm thrilled to share my latest life changes. I'm taking charge, pursuing my goals, and becoming someone I've always dreamed of. It's an exciting journey of self-discovery and growth!

It's been about a week since I last wrote, and there's been a whirlwind of changes, albeit not monumental. This might be the first installment of a two-part update—time will tell! But here's the scoop: I'm diving into pursuing a Journalism degree at Washtenaw Community College. While it might not make headlines for everyone, it's a massive deal for me, and I'm excited to embark on this academic journey. I'm leaping to go full-time with school, and honestly, I couldn't be more thrilled about it!

I'm gearing up to dive into more cooking adventures, writing, and, well, more writing! But seriously, I'm thrilled about this newfound commitment to myself—to step up my self-care game and take charge more practically. It's about doing the things I love at a pace that's achievable and sustainable for me. And here's to a more balanced and fulfilling routine!

Amidst the shifts in my life, this upcoming Friday, December 1st, signifies my departure from the restaurant where I've enjoyed working for two and a half years. These past two and a half years have been more than work; they've been a source of joy, new friendships, and endless learning. As I bid farewell to this chapter, it's a blend of mixed emotions—I'm deeply grateful for the experiences and the assurance that there's always a place for me. However, this transition paves the way for me to return to endeavors that resonate more profoundly with my passions and skills. I'm eagerly immersing myself in activities that truly speak to me—writing for this incredible audience, creating captivating content, and, with great enthusiasm, spearheading the development of a website for Pass Me A Plate. It marks the beginning of an exhilarating new chapter!

On top of everything, I'm also crafting a mini zine for Pass Me A Plate. I'm driven to elevate Pass Me A Plate beyond a mere newsletter. I see it as a vibrant hub where culinary minds converge to create and engage in conversations. It's about fostering a space where culinary creatives can connect, discuss the wonders of the culinary arts, share insights into the food and hospitality industry, and exchange experiences. It's all about celebrating this dynamic field and its passionate individuals!

I envision a future where I host vibrant events, curate memorable dinners, and unite people through shared culinary experiences. This passion has ignited a fire within me, unlike anything else, and I'm incredibly grateful for the ability to pursue it. The chance to continuously evolve and glean insights from everyone around me—colleagues, critics, or the broader community—provides an invaluable opportunity for personal growth. It's a journey that allows me to carve my path and establish a unique presence in food writing.

The cover for the new zine is ready, and I'm excited to show it off! I take on projects independently, so seeing this come together feels fulfilling. Still, I value your input greatly. If there are any tweaks or improvements you think would make it even better, I'm all ears! Your thoughts could help elevate this creation further.