Hi, hello! I’m so glad you’re here. My name is Addie but a lot of people have called me “Chickpea” ever since I started this blog. Here's my story.

I began Chickpea in The City 5 years ago as a soon-to-be sophomore in college as way to document my love for photography, food and combining the two. People ask me the how and why of it and it usually starts with something like, “I love hummus and I live in the city” and ends with a whole lot more.

Originally from the suburbs of Cleveland, Ohio, I’ve always had a passion for food but it wasn’t until the end of high school when my mindset shifted and I began focusing on more fruits, veggies and the power of movement.

The journey through loving food hasn’t been simple or easy. I always tell people learning about healthy eating and making it a lifestyle doesn’t come overnight. From my junior year of high school to junior year of college, I struggled with an eating disorder. I think through my blog, I was able to meet some of my best friends in the health + wellness space, which was what helped me overcome it; along with learning what made me feel my best mentally and physically.

I’ve come a long way since then -- even since my blog began -- focusing on ingredients, colors and nutrients that fuel me over processed foods or even thinking I need salads for every meal (who can relate?). However, I am a sucker for trying new, adventurous foods like bramble berry crisp in a waffle cone at Jeni's Ice Cream (I'm addicted) and homemade croissants at On The Rise in Cleveland, OH (10/10 recommend). I've freed myself of food labels, restrictions and learned what workouts are best for my own personal mental and physical health.

But food and fitness are just a portion of what I do here. In spring 2016, my mom was diagnosed with stage four sarcoma cancer and in January 2017, passed away after the toughest fight. Four months later, I lost my aunt unexpectedly and within two years, I left my corporate job in the natural food industry. I pursued my blog full-time in January 2019 and have been learning ever since. These moments not only helped shift my perspective on how important our health is but how to act in every situation life throws your way - good or bad. I learned how to shift my perspective in negative situations, to look at the bigger picture while also noticing the little things we have to show gratitude for. I share my journey with grief and anxiety in hopes that you know you're not alone in yours.

I'm here to show you that health isn't linear and at the end of the day we're all doing our best whether mental, physically, emotionally or spiritually. I love showing my favorite eats and views around new and exciting cities (especially my own) through travel guides, what clean beauty products I love, tips to overcome struggles and self-doubt and so, so much more.

P.s. just for fun: My homemade turkey meatballs with Rao's marinara is my favorite meal.. I either wear all Madewell or live in workout clothes.. I love taking photos of clouds/light hitting the street and going for walks to do so... and I love conversations that go beyond the surface.

This chickpea’s got a long way to go and I hope you come along with me for the ride. Love you, bbs! xx