Hello Hello Hello!

All you need is coffee!

Friends, friends, friends! What a WHIRLWIND the last three months has been!

Since the book came out in January, I’ve been going non-stop. It’s been the best kind of adventure, but I’ve missed you! Here are a few highlights:

book signing

I’ve signed books in any and all bookstores I could find! I loved seeing my book everywhere–especially in places like airport Hudson News stores (WHERE I’VE SPENT ALL THE MONEY I’VE EVER EARNED), or in little bookstores that I was sure wouldn’t carry it. Friends would send me pictures when they’d find it, too. So many pinch-me moments.

book

In my favorite store–Target!

andie mitchell good morning america

I was a guest on Good Morning America! What an exciting day that was. Watch the clip here!

andie mitchell good morning america

 

30th birthday

I also turned the big 3-0 and my best friends threw me the most amazing surprise birthday party at the Hudson Hotel. It was gorgeous. I am a lucky, lucky girl.

doughnut cake

I have been talking about wanting a doughnut cake forever, and this was the year. I want to turn 30 every year.

30th birthday

[Sabrina, Kate, me, and Nicole]

andie mitchell dr. oz

In February, Dr. Oz had me as a guest on his show, which was such an honor and so fun! (The episode will air on April 15th!)

book party

At the beginning of March, my parents threw me a party to celebrate the book, and 75 friends and family members came. It honestly felt like a small wedding.

book party

My girlfriends and I obsessed over Jen’s pregnancy. When one of us has a baby, all of us will mother it.

seattle

I flew to Seattle (my old home!) to shoot the photos for my cookbook with Aran Goyoaga! Speaking of the cookbook–it’s ALMOST DONE! I’ve been working on it like mad for the past several months–writing recipes, testing, retesting, writing about my relationship with food and eating, editing–and it’s in the final stages now. It’ll be published in spring 2016!

pike place

Driving through the streets of Seattle again in my little rental car, I was sad that I ever left. There’s a real magic to that city.

andie mitchell cookbook collage

Look at some of these photos that Aran took for the cookbook! Her photography is like a breath of fresh air, isn’t it? Just the most beautiful thing. I love everything about her aesthetic–the daintiness, the femininity, the coolness, the brightness. I love how ethereal her shots can be.

And I wasn’t just working with Aran. Jenn Elliott Blake, an incredible prop stylist, styled every photo in the book–from the recipes to the photos of me. Her attention to detail is outstanding. Every linen, dish, fork, and flower were her decision. She just knew how to set a backdrop, or how to create a feeling like nothing I’ve ever seen. It was amazing to watch.

The third person who really made the shoot wonderful was Jessie Blount, who cooked each and every recipe and made them all beautiful enough to shoot. There’s no one warmer or kinder than Jessie.

cookbook shoot

Inside Aran’s studio!

aran's studio

 

andie mitchell

Would you believe me if I told you this scene was shot on a sweet little sidewalk in Seattle? People walking by kept stopping and staring.

5 spot seattle

The last day I was in Seattle, I made a point to eat lunch at the 5 Spot, my favorite diner. If you’ve read the book, you know how much I love this burger. I ate it while sitting across the table from Daniel, five years later, in our old neighborhood. What a wave of nostalgia.

the pantry

dough dougnuts

Back in New York, one of my closest friends, Erica, introduced me to Dough Doughnuts. [You know, all good things in balance]

cherry bombe jubilee

One of the most exciting parts of the year so far was being asked to present at Cherry Bombe Jubilee. Do you read Cherry Bombe magazine? It’s fantastic.

The week before I presented at the Jubilee, I had the absolute pleasure of giving a speech at my old middle school for 8th grade career day. I was surprisingly nervous for it, especially when I remembered on my flight back from Seattle that the speech had to be 30 minutes long. It was wild walking through the halls again, seeing old teachers, and feeling that middle school vibe. The speech itself went well, and hours after, I got a message from one of the 8th graders, “Thanks for coming to my school today. I really liked how you talked about accepting who you are and I’m self conscious so I really liked that. I’m going to buy your book I really want to read it.” This message, and other ones that I’ve gotten like it, are why I wrote my book.

it was me all along

I am left speechless by all of you. Thank you feels so small, but there aren’t other words. I miss writing to you, so I’ll be back more often, even if just for a shorter post.

What’s new in your life?

Right now I’m reading Gretchen Rubin’s book, Better than Before: Mastering the Habits of Our Everyday Lives. Have you read it, or any of her other books, like The Happiness Project? I love Gretchen, and I’m really enjoying her podcast: Happier. I’ve got a lot of thoughts about the power of healthy habit creation that I have to write about soon!

I hope you’re well, and that 2015 has been good to you so far.

ox Andie

ps–If you’re interested in more of a daily dose of life from me, follow me on Instagram. I’m there all the time.

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81 thoughts on “Hello Hello Hello!

  1. Melissa

    Andie! Couldn’t be happier for you and your success! I loved the book and loved the way your voice evolved over the course of the story. Your personal growth was so well woven in to the story, and I was really impressed at the way you were able to go right back to those places in your history and feel what you felt then in the telling of it. It’s such a privilege and a pleasure to be a witness to your evolution. I started reading back when you lived in Seattle with Daniel, and while I know the last few years have been a sort of upheaval, I think it’s been the best kind of upheaval for you. So proud of you!

    Reply
  2. Brooke

    I read your book in a day – I couldn’t put it down. It resonated with me on so many levels. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

    Reply
  3. taylor @ greens & chocolate

    What a whirlwind! So, so happy for you and your success…there is no one more deserving! I love The Happiness Project and think about it often. There’s just no reason to not live life as your happiest self. It was so fun reading your recap – glad you’re back :)

    Reply
  4. Alyssa

    I’m so glad you’re back!! I’ve missed you. I started getting really into your blog right before you vanished and then I read your book and just when I was considering hopping the train into the city to hunt you down, I saw that you were in Seattle (I’m Insta-stalking you) and so I decided to leave you alone. Seems like a long flight. BUT. I’m very happy to see that you are back.
    I will also be in NYC next month and if I happen to see you, I will not hesitate to say hello. So if you see a short, wide girl running towards you – don’t panic, it’s just me. I’m relatively harmless. :D

    Reply
  5. Jillian

    Popped in to check if there was anything new going on over here today — so glad I did! The photos of you for the cookbook are gorgeous — HAPPY! Congratulations on your success. I’m a longtime reader and such a fan.

    Reply
  6. Heidi @foodiecrush

    Hi Andie! We’ve missed you around here, but obviously, your absence is with good reason. Thrilled for you and all of your success. I bet you’re pinching yourself every day. Well deserved and looking forward to seeing what comes next! And getting my hands on that cookbook! XO

    Reply
  7. Cinnamon Vogue

    Andy good to see you back. You look fabulous. The skin is glowing, the nails are beautifully done and your friends look lovely. The thirties are the more important and happiest you can be. Enjoy it, treasure it and never waste it.

    Reply
  8. Tamara

    I love this update, Andie! You look incredibly happy, and I’m so glad you’re having fun.
    I recently grabbed Gretchen Rubin’s new book and, while I’ve only just started dipping into it, I can tell it’s going to be fantastic! xox

    Reply
  9. Leanne

    So happy you have had such a wonderful 2015 so far. You are so deserving of all this joy! I read your book a couple months ago and loved every inch of it. Thank you for being you!

    Reply
  10. the gold digger

    Wait! I finished your book the other night and now you are eating with Daniel again? I just found your blog, so I am not current, and I know it’s none of my business, but are you guys back together?

    And is “Daniel” his real name? Again, none of my bidness, but I write about my husband’s parents on my blog (they don’t like me because of the way I eat bacon, among other things) and am super careful to disguise identities and locations because the last thing I need is for them to find my blog and have even more items to put in the Vault of Horrible Things That B@tch Who Married Our Son Has Done. (Except Daniel sounds like a really nice guy.)

    Reply
      1. Jenni

        They’re probably friends as mature adults now….and she said she had lunch with him. Nothing negative written. He’s also in her book so I’m sure he knows by now that she writes about him.

        Reply
  11. sarah

    So glad you are back! missed your sweet face and voice encouraging me.
    Can’t wait for the new cookbook :)
    love from LA

    Reply
  12. Patty

    I found your book at Costco last month and as soon as I started reading it, I couldn’t put it down. I felt so sorry for the lonely little girl who so desperately wanted a family to come home to, who wanted a dad who was not an alcoholic, who just wanted to be loved and accepted. Your brutally honest book hits close to home for many women who struggle with their weight, emotional eating, and body image. I was a thin child but have been overweight most of my adult life. I have recently lost 30 pounds and have about 30 more to go. Your book is helping me to develop a healthier relationship with food and you are an inspiration to me. I can’t wait to see your episode air on Dr. Oz on April 15th!

    Reply
  13. Bea

    Andie, what a long strange trip it’s been! Thank you for checking in. I met you when you described how you and Daniel ate a WHOLE HEAD of broccoli at least once a week. I am so moved by your journey, your stories, your truth. Camille, Costa Rica. New Year’s Eve back in Boston. Your mom. When I eat I remember half the plate with vegetables and eat that side first. Eat the donut. One donut. Walk. Walk more. Why drive if you can walk. I so appreciate your bravely living with us. Again, thank you.

    Reply
  14. Marla Young

    You did a great job at Jubilee….so inspiring. I am so excited about your cookbook. Thanks for sharing some of your favorite hot spots I visit Seattle sometimes on layovers and will check out the diner you love so much.

    Reply
  15. Danielle

    Happy for all your successes and I really enjoyed your book!
    I know you cant answer all emails– but I have recently emailed you for advice for my now 11 YO daughter (as of yesterday!) and how to deal with her weight gain issues…Any advice is greatly appreciated.
    I of course want to support her- but seems like anything is the wrong thing to say?!
    Thank you!!

    Reply
  16. Amy W

    Andie:

    I read a LOT of books. In the past few years I have started to download audio books so I can walk and read at the same time. I have one “disc” left of your book and I do not want it to end. WOW, you are an amazing writer and an inspiration. My taste in books often leans toward the foodie variety…and I will recommend your to everyone, I’m certain my FIVE sisters will all appreciate. If you are ever in San Francisco, I can steer you towards all kinds of tempting (in moderation) goodies. I have nearly 600 Yelp reviews and have a”foodie children’s adventure” book in my head and you are inspiring me to get it on paper. Love to your Mom! –Amy Ward

    Reply
  17. Karaokenurse

    Just finished your book today. It’s actually the first book I’ve read in years, as recommended by my beautiful daughter. I really enjoyed it and it’s given me some much needed motivation. I look forward to your cookbook when it comes out. Congratulations on all your success. :)

    Reply
  18. sherry phillips

    Read your book, LOVED IT! It made me cry and motivated me too.Thank you for sharing the beautiful photos for the cookbook.I am going to read your book again. I need to lose 100 lbs but would be happy with 50, Im 58 years old.I am so blessed I saw your book in Target by chance.
    Thanks for sharing your heart.

    Reply
  19. Janice Halsey

    So glad you’re back!! I understand the business! Been following you on instagram and read your book. Looking forward to hearing from you!!

    Reply
  20. Mandy

    I was so excited to see the audio version of your book at my local library and on Audible. I’ve been listening to it on my way to work. Love it.

    Reply
  21. Courtney

    Fate lead me to your book. Just finished it yesterday and loved it!! Thanks for being so raw and honest and inspiring!! Will be passing it along and look forward to see the wonderful things you have yet to accomplish!

    Reply
  22. Courtney

    Fate led me to your book. Just finished it yesterday and loved it!! Thanks for being so raw and honest and inspiring!! Will be passing it along and look forward to see the wonderful things you have yet to accomplish!

    Reply
  23. Susan

    Hi Andie, I sat down and read your book over two nights. Thanks for sharing your life and your journey. You are truly an inspiration. Having struggled with weight my entire life, you gave me some insight to look at food in another way. Thanks so much again!

    Reply
  24. Alma

    So nice to hear from you again, Andie. I stop in every so often, hoping to see a post. Such an exciting time and well-deserved. Your photos of Seattle make me wish I’d moved there when I thought about it a few years ago. Happy everything. :)

    Reply
  25. Lauren

    I have only a few pages left to finish your awesome book!!!!! LOVE IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
    Congratulations on becoming an author…you truly have a way with words! Can’t wait for your cookbook!

    Reply
  26. Hootie

    Welcome Back :) I missed you. I checked in today around 4 something and saw the April 15th date flipped to dr oz quickly and caught the tail end of your dr oz appearance. I will have to see if the whole thing is posted online somewhere. Went to supper and came back to drop you a comment. Love your beautiful pictures here and on IG :)

    Reply
  27. stacey

    I just finished your book and loved it!!! You are a true inspiration for so many! Reading your book motivated me to get my runs in early before the day got away from me and stay committed. Thank you for sharing and I wish you much success in the future!

    Reply
  28. Sherry

    Welcome back! I just finished your book and loved it! Sticking with the program will be the toughest part. measurabledifference.com

    Thank you for your inspiration!

    Reply
  29. Alison (Fueling for Fitness)

    Andie, I’ve been a long-time reader and I finally picked up your book the other day. I meant to savour it and read bit by bit every night before I fell asleep. Instead, I devoured the book within days. It was so wonderful. I’m glad you took the time to document, and even more glad that you were able to share your story. I’m totally going to bake that chocolate cake in the end and I cannot wait until your cookbook comes out. You deserve ever success you’ve had and have inspired me to keep going in pursuing my own dreams. :) Thank you.

    Reply
  30. LN

    So glad to see this post. The week I don’t check in you post!!! So glad your life has been so exciting. Hope your mom is well.

    Reply
  31. Haley

    Hi Andie!

    First of all, I loved your book. It was so honest and I could definitely identify with a lot of your experiences. Thank you for taking the time to write them down and share them with others! I love your approach— it’s refreshing in our world of crash diets to read stories about people who lost weight by focusing on doing right by their bodies (and minds).

    I’ve recently discovered barre3 (if you haven’t checked them out you should– they’ve changed my life!) and found that they have a very similar approach: eat whole foods and eventually you will crowd out the junk. I have long had a resentful relationship with dieting/losing weight, often falling into a “shame spiral”. Life is about whole-body health and your story, along with barre3, have inspired me to think about food and exercise in a whole new way.

    So… thank you! And congratulations on your success!

    Reply
  32. Howkasam

    i am a 66 year old man. I had trouble with my weight but didn’t watch what I eat until I got diabetis. Now it’s the gym and listening to my wife about nutrition. I often wonder why we think heavyset women are not attractive and thinner women are. I often wonder what bigger women think when they see magazines and know they don’t look like that. Unfortunately I discount heavier ladies opinions and ideas. Why can’t I judge someone by the “content of their character?”

    Reply
  33. Julie Luton

    Thank you for your unique and personal take on the subject every woman visits at any age. Your message transcends decades of different women, so I just had to tell you how you really touched me when I stumbled across your blog. Recently, I have pushed well over 200 lb mark, and keep telling myself, I will start this new life tomorrow. Your message of just for today stops all my procrastinating ways, and leaves me no excuse. You are amazing and beautiful inside out. Cannot wait to read more from you! Write on !!!

    Julie Luton
    Victorville, CA

    Reply
  34. meg

    Hi Beautiful Lady,
    Smiled all the way thru. Love your cover, book title, and your message. I lost 40 lbs the year leading up to 60. I understand. I’ve slipped up some. You’ve reminded me to take the reins again. No one else can do this for me but your words sure are inspiring and encouraging. thank you beautiful lady.

    Reply
  35. LaL

    Hi Andie. If I might be up front and honest (and hopefully not insert both feet in mouth or totally embarrass myself) :) I’d like to say that *YOU* are a “Fox”… (OOOoops! That might have given away my age). lol :) Oh well :) Keep smiling! Yep; Indeed a very pretty lady! Have a great day…

    Reply
  36. Alan F.

    Hello Andie,

    I saw the article about you on Yahoo.
    Awesome on your weight loss!
    What an inspiration!

    Alan
    Wilmington, OH

    Reply
  37. Shirley

    Andie,
    I am so proud for you. I know you must be so happy. If you would be willing to help me I would be forever grateful. I have had three major back surgeries. I cannot exercise much and for short periods. Since my surgeries I have put on over 50 lbs. For me at 5’1″ that is really unhealthy. Because of the weight I am on two blood pressure meds. I have been taking them for several years now. I live with the fear that I will have a stroke or end up on dialysis because of the damage the meds are doing to my kidneys. I have done everything I know to do I have spent money I did not have to buy books and join weight loss places that all they were interested in was getting more money. They tell me the reason Idid not lose a lb was because I did not buy their drinks and bars. I NEED help. if you would be willing to help me I would be willing to write a forward for your book or what ever. I have worn the same slacks to church for nearly 5 yrs. Would like to get back into my clothes. Main thing is to be healthy again.

    Reply
  38. Moe

    This is a great story. I am glad that you decided to loose the weight. It is not really a way of life it is a way of thinking about life. The problem in our world is that we think too much about food. We can’t have any event or meeting or get together without having food involved.. We need to stop thinking about food and thinking about other things to do but eat.

    You were a beautiful woman in a large size but you are now stunning! Congratulations!

    Reply
  39. Vivian Hernandez

    I am so happy for you as I too had a weight problem my whole entire life I did the yo yo dieting thing as well. Being my culture Mexican we at a lot of homemade tortillas that my grandma would make so I thought that was what you did eat, eat and eat. I was always sad growing up because I was big for my age they used to call me the campbell soup baby and chubby checker I did not start changing until I got older I just lost around 20 lbs it is a lot compared to you but for me I was headed to wearing a size 16 almost and now I am in a size 4/6 depending on the clothes I still don’t see myself as being that small of a person like my co-workers see. Nonetheless, good job you look amazing. I am on Weight Watchers and lovin it

    Reply
  40. Jill

    Just finished reading your book after only buying it a week ago!!! I really enjoyed reading about your journey – I learned so much from you and felt like you wrote part of your book about me! Thank you so much for sharing your story! I am going to start following your blog. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!!!!

    Reply
  41. Nancy

    What a wonderful story. I am currently going to WW – 37 lbs. in toward a 55 lb. weight loss goal. I have never doubted that I can do it, but am always a little concerned about how I’ll sustain it. Reading your blog is very inspiring, and I like the fact that you went to therapy to learn why you eat – I need to do that, plain and simple, because I really don’t know, other than that I just really love food. Keep up the good work, and I will often think of you while I’m on this journey.

    Reply
  42. Lisa

    Hi Andie,
    You are an amazing inspiration! I am 43 and I currently weigh 270lbs, I have started my weight loss journey but I will admit it is very hard. I am in the process of prepping for gastric sleeve surgery. I haven’t read your book but I plan to hopefully get it soon. I just wanted to say thanks for sharing your great story. I needed the encouragement of see someone else succeed at weigh loss. Be Bless and Happy.

    Lisa M.

    Reply
  43. Denise

    God bless you! You should be very proud of yourself. You are a great example for people to follow in understanding the power we each possess to control the path we take. I look forward to tying some of your recipes. I wish you continued strength and success in your journey; you are a fighter.

    Reply
  44. Nicki Kelly

    Hi, Just came across your wonderful website and amazing recipes. I instantly purchased your book, because the cover photograph totally resonates with me. Can’t wait to read it and compare the issues you and I had as overweight little girls. I remember that I was 9 years old when my dear mum put me on my much needed first “diet”. And so started a difficult road…..However I am happy to say that by the time I reached adulthood, I never looked back. I nailed this ‘healthy eating thing’ and am convinced that everyone can overcome their weight loss frustrations if they stop ‘dieting’ and are equipped with the right know-how plus are ditch processed foods and sugars as much as possible. So now I go and start cooking a couple of your delicious looking recipes…..Wonder which ones to start with?

    Reply
  45. Cindy Cressy

    I am down 110lbs and have another 30 to go and so many things you said ring true for me as well. I appreciate you sharing your story and your thoughts and giving me inspiration. Getting there is one task and learning to stay there is another I must learn. Good luck to all of us on this journey!

    Reply
  46. Demi

    Thank you for sharing your journey with us. i need to buy your book not only for me but for my daughters. I have been overweight as a child and now as an adult and I have 3 daughters. I see the same problem creeping into their lives and that’s our unhelathy relationship with food. I hope that we are all inspired by you. I have begun a new weight loss/healthy eating journey in my life and I am seeking every way I can afford how to get back to a healthy weight. I did lose weight when I was younger but I didn’t eat healthy throughout that time. Exercise is what kept me from gaining it all back then. I want to be able to give this gift to my daughters but I need help myself. Thanks again!

    Reply
  47. Chris Rouse

    I have been really touched with your journey. You are such a positive inspiration that this country so sorely needs. Your recipes are also amazing and I am always looking for newer creative ways to eat healthy. I would love for your thoughts on healthy cooking for a 4 year old, as I can not get him to eat anything other than chicken nuggets. Can’t wait for your new book to come out, I really do enjoy the freshness of your ideas. Congratulations on all you have accomplished, you are building an empire!

    Reply
  48. Faride Healey

    You are an amazing woman!

    I should receive your big from Amazon on Monday.

    Thank you for sharing your story.

    Reply
  49. Gina M

    I just read your entire book today, and I am not usually that type of person! Your story truly touched and inspired me, and it was like reading about my own thoughts and struggles in many ways! Loved it!

    This is the first time I have visited your blog, and I cannot wait to look around.

    Reply
  50. Trixiebelle

    I got your book on Saturday morning and was done reading it by Sunday evening. Wow.

    You’re a fantastic writer. More than that, you’re so courageous to share such intimate moments of your life with all of us.

    Thank you for writing this book and sharing your story.

    Reply
  51. Biz

    I love how many great things are going on in your life, and I agree, a donut cake has to make an appearance every year!

    I am still trying to pull myself together after my husband died, but I do refer to your book often – love that on my Kindle app I can actually high light passages and bounce around them as needed.

    I am all over your cookbook! Can’t wait. Hugs and Love!

    Biz

    Reply
  52. Marianne19

    Hi Andie:
    I read your book over the weekend. Could not put it down; you’re a terrific writer. The honesty and vulnerability came through as truth for me, another recovering binge eater. Just dropped by to thank you. Also for the blog and the recipes that I’ve been enjoying for years. Wish you continued success.
    Marianne M.

    Reply
  53. Nancy Bogle

    I just finished reading your book, and am able to identify with it so very much! Thank you for being so brave and candid. I had already started Weight Watchers, and your blog is going to be a big help!

    Reply
  54. Epic Diets

    Hey Andie!

    I’ve been very inspired by your journey and adventures, and I’m glad to see you are writing again! Since then I’ve started my own dieting blog, hoping to inspire others with a choice of diets and facts relating to weight loss and food in general. I hope maybe we can collaborate one day!!

    All the best :D

    Reply
  55. Erin

    Hi Andie,

    I finished listening to your book yesterday while out for a long walk. What a wonderful way to enjoy a spring day. Congratulations on your accomplishments and thank you for being such an inspiration to those of us continuing to struggle with body and weight issues. As someone who has lost (and gained back) a significant amount of weight, I know how different and strange a new body feels, and how ongoing the struggle to stay strong is. Thanks for sharing the journey with all of us!

    Reply
  56. Danielle

    Andie, you’re beautiful, as always. Thanks for keeping us up to date. Can’t wait for your new book. =)

    Reply
  57. Danielle

    Andie, you’re beautiful, as always. Thanks for keeping us updated. Looking forward to your next book. =)

    Reply
  58. Alison Bowling

    It’s SO nice to see that smiling face again Andie! You totally deserve every moment of that, for every single time you have given us inspiration. It looks like it’s been a really fun time of your life, and I’m thrilled you’ve shared that with us!

    Reply
  59. Deborah H

    I loved the book. I saw myself on many of the pages. I am definitely buying a copy for my daughter. Thank you for writing it!

    Reply

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