Hi Friends,
For more than two decades, I’ve had the extraordinary privilege of traveling the world, speaking at events, teaching classes, sharing meals, taking photos, giving hugs, and meeting so many of you face-to-face.
When I started this journey, I never imagined how much these connections would come to mean to me. What began as a passion for helping people become healthier became a community, a family, and one of the greatest blessings of my life.
Lately, I’ve been doing a lot of reflecting.
As many of you know, the past year has reminded me that life is precious, unpredictable, and far too short to keep postponing the things that matter most. It has caused me to look differently at how I spend my time and energy, and at the years ahead.
I’m not making any big announcements today, and I’m certainly not saying goodbye.
But I am saying this:
I no longer want to assume I’ll always be traveling, speaking, and scheduling events years in advance. “Someday” is not guaranteed for any of us.
That’s why I want you to know that after my appearances at Portland VegFest and The Plant Powered Party in Las Vegas, I am not committing to any additional in-person events until August 2027, when
I’ll be presenting on the Holistic Holiday at Sea Alaskan cruise.
Will there be a Vegas event in 2027?
I honestly don’t know.
Will I decide that it’s time to retire from traveling and public appearances?
Maybe.
The truth is, I simply don’t know what the future holds.
Okay… one tiny disclaimer.
If Rancho La Puerta calls, all bets are off! It has always been one of my favorite places to teach, so I can never quite bring myself to say “never.”
Other than that, if seeing each other in person matters to you, I wouldn’t wait.
What I do know is that I don’t want anyone saying, “I always meant to come, but I thought there would be another chance next year.”
If meeting in person, sharing a hug, taking a photo together, sharing a meal, attending a class, or simply spending time in the same room is something that’s meaningful to you, I hope you’ll consider joining me in Portland or Las Vegas.
If you’ve ever thought, “One day I’d love to meet Chef AJ,” don’t let “one day” become “I wish I had.
I would truly love the opportunity to see you, thank you, and connect with you in person while I’m still saying yes to these events.
And if I do decide to retire from traveling, please know that I won’t be disappearing.
I’ll still be Chef AJ.
I’ll still be sharing recipes, stories, interviews, laughter, lessons, and whatever adventures come next. I may simply be doing it at a slower pace, with a little more space for living life and a little less time spent planning it.
Thank you for making this chapter of my life so meaningful.
Whether we meet in Portland, Las Vegas, on a cruise ship in Alaska, or simply online, please know how grateful I am for your support, your friendship, and your presence in my life.
None of this would have been possible without you.
Love & Don’t Wait,
Chef AJ ❤️
🦴🐾🐶 From the Puppy Files 🐶🐾🦴
Everything I know about life I have learned from my dogs. Here they are playing their favorite game of tug. And do you know which dog wins? The one who doesn’t let go. A great metaphor for life!
On the Health Front
