Frances Waddell: Sober Living and Artistic Flourishing in the Foothills
I hear in the room sometimes I held a mirror up to a lot of what I now label core values and things I thought about myself that were just. I didn't ever really examine them before, I mean before I quit drinking.
Ever wondered how a life touched by addiction can transform into one filled with creativity and clarity? Meet Frances Waddell, a full-time artist who calls a cozy cabin in Sandy, Oregon home. In this episode of 'The Unruffled Podcast', hosts Sondra Primeaux and Tammi Salas chat with Frances about her remarkable journey to sobriety and the vibrant life she now leads.
Frances shares her love for botany, mycology, gardening, cooking, and roller skating, all of which play a role in her recovery. Frances opens up about how PTSD has influenced her path to sobriety and how she's managed to stitch together a successful recovery. With newfound creative clarity, Frances discusses her decision to quit drinking and the pivotal role that Alcoholics Anonymous and other sober communities have played in her journey.
Art has become her sanctuary, a tool for healing and self-expression that helps her navigate the ups and downs of recovery. In a candid conversation, Frances reveals the importance of self-awareness and the joy that simple hobbies like roller skating can bring. She also shares three essential items from her 'Unruffled Toolbox': movement, touch, and a solid morning routine. These elements have been crucial in maintaining her sobriety and fueling her artistic endeavors.
Join Sondra and Tammi as they explore Frances's inspiring story, offering a blend of empathy, humor, and practical insights. Whether you're on your own recovery journey or supporting someone who is, this episode is a testament to the transformative power of creativity and community support. Tune in to discover how Frances turned her life around and continues to thrive in sobriety.