Editor’s Note my two cents on the subject
Kelly Oden Executive Editor
How is it already December? This is the thought running through my mind these days. As a matter of fact, how is it nearly 2018? I remember being young and luxuriating in the slow pace of time. It seemed I’d be young forever—there was no need to rush anything. And then, almost as though I was transported in time, I am 45, a mother, and a real adult—the in-between is a bit of blur, honestly. But, wrinkles and all, I’m happy to be here to ring in yet another new year. The holiday season can be frantic and stressful, but it doesn’t need to be. This year, I plan to focus on the fun and the togetherness more than the commercial aspects of the holidays. When I do purchase gifts, they will be thoughtful, meaningful and, whenever possible, local! And, I am going to as many of the lovely holiday events our community throws as possible. My daughter is nine and I may only have a few more years in which she will actually be interested in attending holiday events with her mom. In that spirit, we’ve wrangled all of the best holiday and New Year’s events we could find. There’s always something fun going on in December in Pensacola, so we hope you join us at all of these fantastic, whimsical and heartwarming celebrations. Check out our holiday events on page 29 and our New Year’s shindigs on page 32. If you’re throwing a little party of your own, be sure to add a
signature cocktail to the event. Jackson’s Steakhouse has graciously supplied four delicious holiday cocktail recipes that are sure to put you and your guests in the holiday spirit. Find them on page 17. Also, if you’re struggling with all of the high-carb, high-sugar meals and treats on offer this season, check out Health Coach Jodi Brown’s no-nonsense advice for keeping healthy eating habits alive during the holidays. And, speaking of shopping local, Hana Frenette has put together a lovely collection of local handmade items that will make excellent gifts for everyone on your list while supporting local artists at the same time. You can’t shop more local than handmade pieces from local artists! Happy Holidays to all of our readers! May your days be merry and bright!
Top Left: Lola Oden and Santa at Winterfest, 2016. Top Right: Lola Oden and Christian Martin at Winterfest, 2016.
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