I know it’s been a long time, and I apologize for my absence. There have been a lot of changes in my life, and I wanted to pop in and give you guys an update.

I am still working two jobs; one at a mental health organization, facilitating therapeutic art groups, and the other at a craft store in the frame shop. I work two jobs because financially I have to, but I actually enjoy both of my jobs. I have learned that I’m the type of person who has to get up and leave the house every day. In the past, spending too much time at home negatively affected my mental health, and I think that’s one of the main reasons I struggled so much during COVID. 

I’m also back in school! Last June, I started taking classes online, and I am working toward a bachelor’s degree in health science. I have about a year and a half left to go. My friends and family were surprised when I told them my major. I’ve spent most of my life pursuing the arts, so this is quite a change. However, I am absolutely loving my classes! I’m not sure what I want to do with my degree yet, but I am considering applying to grad school. 

Unfortunately, two jobs and school leave very little time for writing, but I want you all to know that I still want to be a part of the Freethought Blogs community. Once my life settles down, I plan on writing regularly again.

Another change I want to share is that I’ve lost over eighty pounds. I believe in my last few posts on FtB, I shared that I had knee surgery. Having knee surgery required lots of physical therapy, which led me to work out on my own. I started on a stationary bike in my basement. I noticed I had more energy, so I stuck with it. I was working out a few times a week, but then in December 2024, I decided to try running, and as they say, the rest is history! I run almost every day now. People don’t even recognize me. I went from a size 20 to a size 0, so it is a huge change! Running is my “me” time. I run early in the morning before I wake my daughter up for school. I have a TV set up in front of my treadmill in the basement, so I turn on some trashy reality shows and go to town! Yes, I look different, but I think the biggest change is how I feel. Both my physical and mental health have improved immensely! 

I just wanted to let you know that I’m not dead. I’m actually doing really well, and I hope to start writing again once life settles down and I have the time to dedicate to my blog. I feel like you guys have seen the best and worst of me, and I want you to know that I’ve always appreciated the support you’ve shown me.