My New Normal

Hey everyone!

I know I promised to update this blog more often this year. At the time, it felt like a good plan, maybe even a little wishful thinking. Life has had other ideas, and I’m sorry I haven’t followed through. Something new has come along that’s taken a lot of my attention, in a really positive way.

Writing and Recovery

When I look back, I realise that a huge part of my recovery came down to writing. This blog gave me an outlet when I didn’t have anywhere else to put my feelings. But the truth is, I don’t feel like I’m in that negative space anymore. And because of that, I’ve struggled to find words for new posts.

In the last couple of years, my life has changed a lot. Buying my own house, paying a mortgage, taking on responsibility — things that once felt impossible now form part of my everyday. It’s not always easy, but it’s a sign of growth.

Shifting Priorities

Before COVID, I was out at events constantly. Meeting actors, attending conventions, writing about the experiences. But that part of life slowed right down. Crowds became overwhelming, and my priorities shifted. The money that once went into events now goes toward building security in my home.

And so, without realising it, I stopped attending events. I stopped writing about them. Another reason this blog grew quiet.

Finding Connection Again

Life doesn’t stop though, it changes. And for me, that shift started when Dixie came into my life.

During my mental health crisis, I couldn’t talk to people, let alone invite them into my space. Now, I go to the dog park every single day. I chat with neighbours. I’ve built a little community. Dixie gave me a reason to step outside, and through her I’ve made new connections that feel genuine.

I am happier than I’ve been in a very long time. The past is still there, those experiences shaped me, but this is my new normal, and I’m learning to embrace that.

Building a Community

Over the last six months especially, I’ve found a group of people who really feel like “my people.” They’re not replacing old friends, but they bring something new into my life.

With long-term friends, plans often stay as “we should catch up sometime.” With my dog park friends, someone says “girls’ night?” and by the weekend, we’re gathered around a table, laughing and talking like we’ve known each other forever.

Maybe it starts with the love of animals, but it goes deeper than that. Some of these friends have children, yet they still listen and understand when I share my struggles with not being able to have kids myself. I’ve spoken about how I see Dixie as my way of experiencing motherhood, and instead of judgment, I’ve felt acceptance. That understanding is rare, and it means more than I can say.

Games Nights

Something else I’ve always wanted is a group of friends I could play games with. In the past, I’ve had moments of that, but it was always irregular. Plans were made but rarely followed through.

Now, with my dog park friends, we’ve had several games nights together and they’ve been some of the best times. We laugh so much, and it feels easy. Recently, we even made a plan to have a set day of the week for games, but with no pressure. Anyone can cancel, no one has to dress up, no one has to host with food or bring anything. We just show up, play games, and enjoy each other’s company.

It’s simple, but it’s something I’ve wanted for such a long time, and now I finally have it.

Dixie’s Diaries

Another important part of my life right now is working on the Dixie’s Diaries series. This project has become such a passion for me, combining my love for Dixie, creativity, and storytelling into something I can share with others.

In many ways, this blog has been a place for me to process and share my personal journey. But moving forward, I can see it slowly transitioning. Not ending, but evolving. I’d like to start sharing more through the Dixie’s Diaries blog and website. A new space dedicated to Dixie’s adventures, the books, and the community that has grown around her.

This doesn’t mean leaving this blog behind completely. It just means the stories I share will grow alongside me, moving from where I’ve been to where I’m heading.

Embracing the New

There are still moments when I feel left out or different, but I’ve found people who get me. I’ve found joy in the little moments again, in community, in connection, in Dixie’s unconditional love.

Maybe this blog is changing too. It’s no longer just about struggle and survival. It’s about growth, friendship, and finding happiness in unexpected places. And I think that’s a story worth sharing.

Thank you

If you’ve made it this far, thank you for being here and for continuing to share in my journey. Writing has always been a way for me to process life, and even though the focus of my posts may shift, it means a lot to know there are people willing to read along.

Here’s to new chapters, new friendships, and to Dixie’s Diaries — the next step in where this story is heading.