“In any given moment, we have two options: to step forward into growth or to step back into safety.” - Abraham Maslow
NOTE FROM THE
publisher
With Leah and Joe Short of Short’s Brewing in Bellaire on location for their photo shoot.
I
love this quote, and I think we can all agree, because of the tumultuous year that 2020 was. We all stepped forward into growth, accomplishing unimaginable feats. We stretched our comfort zones in every direction. Talk about learning “life lessons”! We were forced to spend time with our families, something we had always been “too busy” and “overscheduled” to do before. Some days it was easy and other days it was just plain agonizing. But we made it. Cheers to a new year filled with possibilities. As you read this, we are literally “holding hands sharing the moment,” taking on 2021 together. Today more than ever, BayLife Magazine is that “little slice of normal” coming into your homes. Our colorful pages hold the power to connect you to the familiar faces we all miss interacting with, smiling faces without masks. We “show and tell” the love of our community, our sense of pride for our beloved hometown of Traverse City. Despite all the unknown, one thing is certain we all still feel so lucky to live here. Taking all that into consideration, Tom and I worked hard to make this a vibrant fresh issue full of hope and resilience. We included
4
FEB/MAR 2021 | BAYLIFE MAGAZINE
local happy faces. We highlighted how to support our local bars and restaurants, in this COVID-19 world. At press time Feb 1 is the big opening day, but only at a 25% capacity. So, adapted ways of take out and dining out will still be relevant for a while. Undeterred by this, we share news of your fellow neighbors (brave souls) going “all-in” with new ventures. Traverse City is still thriving and it’s exciting to bring these people’s stories to life.
We were listening to Christal Frost on WTCM radio and Bill was her guest chatting about the blog he writes, “making you matter.” It was enlightening to hear that this local well-known businessman had such a passion to genuinely inspire and motivate people. His stories and every day simple steps help pave the way for a happier self. “Bingo!” We both said, “we have to feature Bill in the magazine for everyone to read.” The timing seemed like serendipity.
Outside of TC, we took a snowy road trip to Bellaire. There, we met up with Joe and Leah Short, owners of Short’s Brewing Company. Their success story is mind-blowing, and we felt so humbled they allowed us deep into their operations where all the Short’s magic happens. Joe shared his story very candidly with us, and I guarantee it’s a fun read. But you will get thirsty. Thanks again to Leah, she hooked me up with a sample bag to take home.
So, grab a coffee or tea. Oh heck, if it’s later, make it a cocktail. Get comfy and dig into the pages and be entertained. We hope you love it and it makes you smile. I truly miss seeing everyone’s smiling faces, and hugs. I’m a hugger. This too shall pass, right?
As you linger over each page and enjoy reading about other people, you might conclude that our Bill Marsh Jr. feature is more about you than him. We discovered his devotion for self-awareness quite by chance.
Teri Gorsline, Publisher BayLife Magazine