LMS offers an authentic Montessori program from early childhood through high school, adhering to principles and scientific methods for your child’s development.
The elementary learning environment (grades 1-6) fosters independence and focus through individual or small group work, natural lighting, soft colors, and organized, accessible materials. New students quickly adapt to Montessori’s hands-on, interest-driven teaching. The classroom is a vibrant, happy community where students explore, create, and reflect, with teachers offering support and introducing new material as needed. Clear expectations are balanced with openended opportunities, promoting both comfort and inspiration for learning.
Our Secondary Montessori program serves 7th - 10th grade with expansion of grade levels each year.
We integrate rigorous academics with purposeful work, preparing students to become selfconfident, contributing adults. Our approach addresses adolescents’ physical, emotional, social, and cognitive growth, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and independence. Beyond challenging their intellect, compassion, diplomacy and collaboration are developed through personally experiencing human and nature interdependence. Students also learn business and entrepreneurship skills through hands-on participation in real economic activity provided by Laniakea’s micro-economy program.
We are accepting 3 new students to join our Secondary program. Students must have a strong work ethic with a positive behavior record.
Explore new opportunities, local connections, and the businesses that make our community thrive The Greater Gainesville Chamber of Commerce is your guide to discovering what’s next from networking and growth, to events, innovation, and hometown pride
Explore with us and see where community can take you.
Join us!
It’s Summer and Time to Explore!
We live in a world that values productivity and efficiency, where every moment seems to be mapped out and planned. I’ll admit, I often fall into this mindset sometimes too, thinking that the only worthwhile activities are those that can be measured, calculated, and optimized. But the truth is, a life that is too structured is missing something vital—space for exploration and relaxing. We need room for discovery, for trying new things, for being a beginner, and for simply slowing down and taking time to “smell the roses.” Sometimes, it’s in those unplanned and simple moments where connections are made and lasting memories are created.
In this issue, you’ll read about adventures and trips from local business and community leaders – many to exotic places such as Thailand and Portugal! I’m also excited to share a bit about a trip my husband and I took a few months ago down to “La Cruz” – a hidden gem just north of Puerto Vallarta. We’re also sharing some not-so-far-away off-the-beaten spots to explore like the beautiful Black Prong in Bronson in the Goethe State Forest, and our cover story features a local photographer’s stunning work of some of our special birds in the area. Seeing all this is a reminder that sometimes, getting off course is indeed the best way to find your way to what truly matters.
Our "adventures" don’t always involve grand trips—but those are certainly great too. This issue is all about giving yourself permission to explore—whether it’s a spontaneous trip, a long-awaited journey, a new hobby, or simply making time for those unstructured moments with the people you love. Let’s make space for the unexpected and the unexplored, and remember that it’s often in these moments that the richest connections are formed.
Elizabeth Mueller | elizabeth.mueller@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Tyler Laborde | TJosephLaborde@gmail.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS
Jacqueline Valdez, Jacqueline Valdez Studio, Club Synergie, Jennifer Cassidy, Tyler Laborde, Naps Happen Photography, Schackow & Mercadante, Jamie Mousa, Gainesville Picture Framers, Rynni Henderson, Brett Geib, Dan Shaw, Florida Farm Bureau Insurance, Hogtown Roofing & Construction, LLC, Lester Copeland, Ace Handyman Services, Brandi Ross, Cabi Style with Leza, Leza Mueller, Adrienne Fletcher Photography, Gwen's Cleaning Queens, Gwen Oliver, Gainesville Area Women's Network, Carre Saunders, Santa Fe College, Great Florida Insurance, Taylor Noe, Good Pour, Raise Your Glass Wine Bar, Daisy Cottle, Marlene Morales, Clover & Cloud Bounce Co., Terri Bork, Abacus Gal, LLC, Corey Amira, Amira Custom Homes, Erich Coleman, Dianna Ullery, Momentum Rehab and Chiropractic, Simon Marquez, Magnolia Ridge Rehabilitation Center, Content Courtesy of TangoDiva.com, Shelia Gaspers, Zoe Bowden, Black Prong, Heather O'Neal, Edwin Duque, Taylor Noe, Christina Miller, Millhopper Montessori School, Looking Good Suits, Michael Eaddy, The Hippodrome Theatre, Visit Gainesville.
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
Proverbs 3:5-6
Vineyards, Gastronomy and Culture
Journey along the Rhône and the Rhine, through landscapes shaped by centuries of history, viticulture and art. Taste complex red wines and crisp whites grown on terraced vineyards rooted in the Roman Empire. Explore Avignon’s grand Palace of the Popes and Cologne ’s majestic cathedral, both UNESCO Sites. Savor Lyon’s rich culinary traditions and the Rhineland’s hearty flavors and admire the landscapes that inspired van Gogh in The Netherlands and Provence.
1: A sparkling evening for Santa Fe College Foundation: Chandon bubbly, charcuterie, and great music vibes! 2-4: Monthly Happy Hour at Raise Your Glass won't be our last, join us in June! 5: A sparkling evening for Santa Fe College Foundation: Chandon bubbly, charcuterie, and great music vibes!
business monthly
A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
Explore the Art of Movement by Jacqueline Valdez
Explore the art of movement and the transformative ways it can elevate everyday life. At Jacqueline Valdez Studio in Gainesville, Jacqueline Valdez blends personalized Pilates and wedding dance instruction to inspire confidence, posture, balance, and connection. More than fitness, intentional movement can reduce stress, increase body awareness, and support overall well-being, creating meaningful experiences rooted in grace, strength, and joyful living.
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Natural, Non-Invasive Body Contouring at Club Synergie
Did you know Club Synergie’s body contouring services are natural, non-invasive and pain free? A comprehensive 3-month plan is only $599/month. Call or text 352-214-0094 for a free consultation.
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Exploring Every Angle Together As One Unified Legal Team
Adventure is about showing up, working together, and embracing every challenge ahead. As a team of attorneys and staff, we believe exploration means looking beyond the obvious and finding the best path forward. Whether collaborating on the pickleball court or advocating for our clients, we rely on preparation, trust, and strategy. Our shared commitment drives us to explore every option, anticipate obstacles, and move confidently toward meaningful results with integrity, energy, and purpose every day.
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Photography by Jacqueline Valdez
Photography by Tyler Laborde: Naps Happen Photography
Photography by Jamie Mousa
Preserve Your Memories Forever With EverPresent's
Professional Digitizing Services
EverPresent, the national leader in digitizing, is right in your neighborhood. Our services include video tape transfer, film reel conversions, photo scanning, album and scrapbook scanning, slide and negative scanning, audio conversions, custom photo books, and direct and sharable web & mobile app. Call Gainesville Picture Framers for your special offer, valid for first-time clients referred by Gainesville Picture Framers in Gainesville, Florida. EVERPRESENT.COM | 877-261-3453
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Preserving Your Memories with Gainesville Picture Framers
As local picture framers, we (Brett and Suzanne) are proud to be a part of the vibrant Gainesville arts community! With a focus on preservation, our goal is to make sure your photos, artwork, memorabilia, family treasures, and more, are protected and displayed for years to come. We pride ourselves on fine craftsmanship and offer a wide variety of frames to suit any style. Stop by today for a free quote, no appointment necessary! https://www.gainesvillepictureframers.com/
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Dan Shaw: Insurance Rooted in Honesty, Responsibility, and Respect
Dan Shaw with Florida Farm Bureau Insurance built his business through his core values of Honesty, Responsibility, and Respect. Specializing in Home, Auto, Business, and Life Insurance, his goal is to make sure your biggest assets in life are properly protected. Schedule a no pressure insurance review of all your policies today by calling 352-378-1389 ext 4 or emailing him at Dan.Shaw@ffbic.com
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Photography by Rynni Henderson
Photography by Brett Geib
Photography by Dan Shaw
Welcome Hogtown Roofing & Construction, LLC
Hogtown Roofing and Construction’s mission is simple: deliver great quality roofs with a smile, and make sure our customers feel heard. That means we show up, we communicate, and we treat you the way we’d treat our own family— because to us, our clients aren’t just customers. They’re our neighbors. When you hire our services, you can count on us for the results you want. Get in touch today at (352) 888-9595 for a free estimate.
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Your To-Do List Called… Ace Handyman Services Answered
From small fixes to bigger projects, Ace Handyman Services is here to make life easier for homeowners in our community. Need drywall repaired, interior/exterior painting, or help checking off that never-ending to-do list? Our friendly, skilled craftsmen are ready to help with reliable service and quality work you can trust. We’re proud to serve our neighbors with honest communication, professional craftsmanship, and stress-free home repairs that help keep your home looking its best.
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Pack Light, Look Amazing: cabi Style Makes Every Adventure Effortless
Adventure is calling and your wardrobe should be ready! As a cabi Stylist, I help women build versatile, travel-friendly wardrobes that take you from plane to destination without missing a beat. cabi's thoughtfully designed pieces mix, match, and move with you, making packing simple and every moment of your trip stylish and comfortable. Whether you're exploring a new city or relaxing by the water, cabi has you covered. Ready to travel in style? https://www.cabionline.com/?pws=elizabethmueller
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Photography by Lester Copeland
Photography by Tyler Laborde: Naps Happen Photography
Photography by Adrienne Fletcher Photography
Gwen's Cleaning Queens: Detail, Heart, and Excellence in Every Home
Gwen's Cleaning Queens is a Black, woman-owned business built on excellence, community, and care. As a single mom herself, owner Gwen understands the overwhelm and she's on a mission to lift that weight. Specializing in detail-oriented cleaning, she transforms spaces and the lives within them. Whether you're a busy mom, navigating a personal season, or simply ready for a fresh start, Gwen's team shows up on time, professional, and ready to make your home shine.
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GAWN Spotlight Speaker for May: Carre Saunders
A Gainesville transplant shaped by military life, I learned early how powerful intentional connection can be. As Santa Fe College's Director of Development, after nearly 14 years at UF in fundraising and alumni engagement, my work centers on expanding opportunity through programs like Displaced Homemakers and Freedom to Learn. Building trust first changes everything. Outside work, I paddleboard, run a book club, volunteer with Oh Hey, Dog!, and adventure with my Lab, Harper. https://gawn.org/
Your Passport Is a Glass: Taste the World Tonight
Step into Raise Your Glass Wine Bar and the world opens instantly. Our curated wines span continents, from historic Old World vineyards to bold New World discoveries, each flight designed as a journey rather than a tasting. Every pour is a chance to explore something unexpected, something rare, something gone too soon if you wait. This isn’t just wine-it’s movement, story, and discovery in a glass. The only question is how far you’ll travel tonight.
Photography by Gwen Oliver
Photography by Santa Fe College
Photography by Daisy Cottle
FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATIONS
FANFARES & FIREWORKS 2026, JULY 3RD.
Celebrate the Fourth at the annual Independence Day Eve event, Fanfares & Fireworks, July 3rd. The celebration features musical performances by Now Leaving Space, Souza Brass Band, The Savants, the Gainesville Community Band, and the Gainesville Pops under Gary Langford. Set up a picnic in the grass or grab a bite at multiple food trucks. Fireworks presented by Dan Newlin Injury Attorneys begin at 9:30 p.m. during the music. Children’s activities, a blood drive, and voter registration are available. No dogs, sparklers, drones, or alcohol permitted; coolers welcome but subject to search.
Flavet Field at the University of Florida, 605 Woodlawn Drive, Gainesville. https://www.wuft.org/fanfares-fireworks-2026
“LARGEST SMALL-TOWN FIREWORKS DISPLAY IN AMERICA”, JULY 4TH.
Then on Saturday, July 4th, head to Legacy Park in Alachua for the annual Fourth of July Celebration, home to the “Largest Small-Town Fireworks Display in America.” The fun kicks off at 5 p.m. with live music by Crooked Counsel and food vendors, with fireworks launching at 9:30 p.m. Best of all, admission and parking are completely free. Personal fireworks, pets, glass containers, and smoking are not permitted.
Legacy Park Multipurpose Center 15400 Peggy Rd. Alachua, FL 32615 https://www.visitgainesville.com/event/city-of-alachuas-annual-fourth-of-july-celebration/ Two nights, two incredible shows. It’s a great weekend to celebrate!
Gainesville and surrounding areas are going all out this Fourth of July with two incredible celebrations worth your calendar.
ARTICLE BY LEZA MUELLER
Elevated Events, Effortlessly Done
Luxury event rentals creating elevated, stress-free experiences for families, brands, and thoughtfully planned celebrations
At Clover & Cloud Bounce Co., we believe the most meaningful adventures don’t require travel, they happen right in your own backyard, surrounded by the people you love most.
We serve both families and event hosts who want something elevated, seamless, and thoughtfully designed. Whether it’s a birthday party, community gathering, school event, or brand activation, our goal is the same: create a beautiful experience without the stress.
Our luxury, neutral-toned bounce houses and soft play setups are designed to complement, not compete with,
your event aesthetic. Each rental includes professional delivery, setup, and teardown, allowing hosts, planners, and organizations to stay focused on their guests.
We’re fully insured, safety-focused, and committed to maintaining clean, high-quality equipment for every event. For families, that means being present and enjoying the moment. For partners and planners, it means working with a dependable vendor who values both experience and execution.
Because the best events aren’t just well-planned, they feel effortless from start to finish.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARLENE
MORALES
Shop Local, Love Local, Live Local
Gainesville Picture Framers: Preserving Your Memories
Gainesville Picture Framers / Brett and Suzanne, local picture framers and craftsman / Stop by today for a free quote, no appointment necessary!/ https:// www.gainesvillepictureframers.com/ / Call (352) 888-1505
Raise Your Glass Wine Bar: Your Passport Is a Glass
Raise Your Glass Wine Bar / Taste the World Tonight / Curated Wines that Span Continents / https://rygwinebar.com/ / Contact us at Manager@raiseyourglasswinebar.com
Cabi Style with Leza: Gainesville's Cabi Boutique
Cabi Style with Leza / Gainesville’s Cabi Boutique / Shop a local boutique, dress fabulously, and keep Gainesville thriving, your stylist Leza makes all three effortlessly possible! / https://www.cabionline.com/pages/ backoffice?pws=elizabethmueller / Call (352) 359-6023
Looking Good Suits & More: Upgrade Your Style Game
Looking Good Suits & More / Discover The Latest Trends in Suits and Upgrade Your Style Game / https://lookinggoodgator.com/ / Call (352) 332-3186
The Hippodrome Theater: 2026-2027 Season Tickets Available!
The Hippodrome Theater / Live theater or cinema with Hippodrome Theatre’s flex passes and gift cards / thehipp.org / Call (352) 375-4477
THROUGH THE LENS
Gainesville's Birds, Parks & One Passionate Chef
ARTICLE BY LEZA MUELLER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERICH COLEMAN
Erich Coleman is a Gainesville chef whose camera rarely stays at home. A self-taught wildlife photographer, Erich has spent years documenting the birds and natural beauty of local parks — from Sweetwater Wetlands to Morningside Nature Center. His work caught the attention of Yelp Elite, where
his photos and reviews now hold premier placement. What drives him? A genuine love for this community and its wild, feathered residents. We’re so glad he shares it.
Instagram page is @alachua_county_wildlife
Yelp Photographer of the Year for 2025
TERRI’S Two Cents
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY
TERRI BORK
TRAVELING TO ANTARCTICA EXPANDED MY PERSPECTIVE AND STRENGTHENED MY BUSINESS
I expected Antarctica to be breathtaking. I didn’t expect it to make me better at what I do. There’s something about standing in a place so vast and untouched that it quiets the constant noise of running a business. No dashboards. No notifications. Just clarity. And in that space, I wasn’t thinking about tasks, I was thinking about direction.
Stepping away didn’t slow the business. It strengthened it. The distance reinforced what matters: strong systems, a capable team, and a model built on insight, not presence. It also created room to think bigger.
When your work is centered on profit and growth, perspective is everything. And nothing expands perspective like the edge of the world. I came back sharper, more focused, and more intentional about where we’re going. Sometimes the best way to grow your business is to leave it long enough to see it differently.
Terri Bork is a Profit and Growth Strategist at Abacus Gal, LLC, providing outsourced controller and bookkeeping services that help business owners understand their numbers and grow with confidence.
Our team guides each project from concept to completion with a focus on integrating innovative design with functional craftsmanship. Our philosophy is “Quality Over Convenience”. This principle drives every aspect of our business. We believe in using premium products and delivering superior service, ensuring that each home meets the highest standard of quality and durability.
County Energy Efficiency Program
Call or Text: 352-450-4965 Email: aceep@rebuildingtogetherncf.org communityweatherization.org/rental-program-aceep
A Viking River Cruise through Portugal's stunning Douro Valley delivers wine, history, and pure discovery.
PORTUGAL’S RIVER
ARTICLE CONTENT COURTESY OF TANGODIVA.COM
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF TANGODIVA.COM
Portugal has become one of Europe’s most sought-after destinations and for good reason. With dramatic landscapes, world-class wines, and rich cultural heritage, it rewards every traveler willing to explore beyond the obvious. For those dreaming of an immersive, unhurried experience, a Viking River Cruise on the Douro, Portugal’s celebrated River of Gold, may be the most pampered way to experience it.
The journey begins in Lisbon, where an overnight stay offers a first taste of the country’s warmth and beauty. Embarkation follows in Porto, Portugal’s vibrant second city, a picture-postcard destination of cobblestone streets,
azulejo-tiled buildings, and port wine cellars lining the riverbank. Viking’s guided walking tour hits the highlights, but a post-cruise extended stay is well worth considering. A walk across the iconic Dom Luís arch bridge is a must, the views from the upper level are unforgettable.
The Viking Hemming, a compact ship designed specifically for the Douro, accommodates just 106 passengers, creating an intimate, boutique-hotel feel on the water. A nearly three-to-one crew-to-passenger ratio ensures gracious service throughout. The ship navigates the river’s narrow passages and a series of dramatic locks. None is more memorable than the Carrapatelo Lock, the deepest in Europe, where the vessel drops nearly 115 feet and the towering walls close in on either side.
Sailing in late November, the Douro Valley unfolds in brilliant autumn color golden yellows, russet reds, and burnt oranges draped across terraced hillsides. High above the riverbanks, centuries-old quintas, olive groves, and almond trees come into view. The region is the world’s oldest demarcated wine territory, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with more than 2,000 years of winemaking tradition.
Complimentary shore excursions are one of Viking’s greatest strengths. Highlights include a multi-course feast at a hilltop Douro wine estate featuring Moscatel de Favaios, a visit to Porto’s stunning São Bento Train Station, its walls covered in hand-painted azulejo tiles, and a day trip to the magnificent university city of Salamanca. Evenings onboard bring tastings, cultural presentations, and live entertainment, including a spirited flamenco performance.
Dining aboard the Hemming is consistently excellent, multi-course meals, daily rotating menus, locally sourced ingredients, and wine and beer included with every lunch and dinner. Unlike many cruise lines, there are no hidden fees or nickel-and-diming. For a fully immersive Portugal experience without the logistics of daily hotel changes or navigating unfamiliar roads, Viking handles every detail with quiet efficiency, leaving guests free to simply enjoy the journey.
The Douro has a way of slowing you down, in the very best sense. Savoring the sunset view of vineyards, Portugal leaves a lasting mark. The only regret most travelers share is not staying longer. Visit viking.com.
Content and photos courtesy of TangoDiva.com
“Sailing the Douro means unpacking just once, letting others handle all the details, and giving yourself fully to the wine, the landscape, and the river.”
BUILT ON TRUST
The Craft Behind Ace Handyman Services
In an industry where reliability can make or break a homeowner’s experience, we here at Ace Handyman Services has carved out a reputation rooted in professionalism, craftsmanship, and genuine care. More than just a repair service, our company positions itself as a trusted partner—handling everything from small residential fixes to larger home improvement projects with precision and pride.
What sets us apart isn’t just the wide range of services—it’s the attention to detail. Every project, whether it’s repairing drywall, home remodels, updating fixtures, or tackling seasonal maintenance, is approached with the same level of dedication. We are also licensed and insured and backed by a 1-year warranty on labor as well. The craftsmen are not only skilled but also trained to treat each home with respect, showing up on time, communicating clearly, and leaving spaces better than they found them.
But we don’t stop at residential work. Our company has become a reliable resource for businesses and commercial properties as well. From office repairs and tenant improvements to ongoing maintenance for retail spaces and property managers, we deliver the same professionalism and efficiency that homeowners have come to expect. Our ability to minimize disruptions and complete projects on schedule makes us a valuable partner for business owners who need work done right—without slowing down operations.
Customers across both residential and commercial sectors consistently highlight our company’s transparency and reliability. Clear estimates, dependable scheduling, and a commitment to doing the job right the first time have helped us build long-term relationships within the communities we serve.
At its core, Ace Handyman Services represents more than repairs—it reflects a standard. A standard where quality work, honest service, and customer satisfaction aren’t just promises—they’re the foundation of every project.
ARTICLE BY BRANDI ROSS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TYLER LABORDE: NAPS HAPPEN PHOTOGRAPHY
Brandi Ross
A R ELAXED LOCAL GETAWAY WITH SWIMMING, HORSEBACK RIDING, AND A PLACE TO GATHER AFTERWARD
ARTICLE BY ZOE BOWDEN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY HEATHER O'NEAL
YOUR LOCAL
ESCAPE
You don’t have to drive hours to feel like you’ve stepped away from everything. Just outside Gainesville, Black Prong sits tucked into the Goethe State Forest, surrounded by miles of trails and the kind of quiet you do not find in town. It’s the kind of place where you can spend a few hours and feel like you’ve been gone all day.
For locals, the community passes are the harbinger of summertime. They are designed so you can use the property without booking a stay, whether that means spending an afternoon by the beach-entry pool, riding e-bikes through the forest, or working out in the fitness center. You can walk the trails, spend a little time in the sunshine, and head back when you are ready. It works just as well for a quick reset during the week as it does for a slower weekend afternoon.
If you are looking to do something a little more adventurous, the horseback trail rides through the forest are worth the drive themselves. The horses are friendly, and there are rides for all levels of experience, even if you have never been on horseback before. Families with little ones or couples looking for a romantic evening can also choose the unique experience of exploring the forest in a horse-drawn carriage. The pace is relaxed enough that you can actually take in your surroundings and enjoy the time with each other. What tends to tie it all together is the Whiskey Bar & Grill. The food is some of the best in Levy County, and the atmosphere is elegant, but there is no need to dress up. People show up as they are, whether that means straight off the trail or meeting friends for dinner. The menu leans into elevated Southern-inspired dishes, and the bar is known for its whiskey selection and craft cocktails.
It doesn’t feel like a big destination, and that is part of the appeal. Black Prong is a place that locals can escape to, whether for a swim, a ride, or a meal, without it feeling like you need an occasion. It offers space to step outside, slow down, and enjoy what is already close by.
Retracing Roads Through Time
An emotional six-week RV adventure following my parents’ long-ago journey west.
For six unforgettable weeks, Allie (my fearless dog) and I retraced a journey my parents had taken decades earlier, armed with little more than their handwritten journal, an RV, and a deep curiosity about the roads that once shaped their memories. After a year of planning, I left Florida behind to travel west through endless highways and breathtaking landscapes stretching from Albuquerque to Utah, Colorado, and eventually back home again.
Their journal became my compass. Each faded page described campsites, roadside diners, mechanical troubles, and moments of wonder. Reading their words while driving the same roads created the strange feeling that we were somehow traveling together across time.
The trip was far from easy. The truck broke down on day one, forcing us to spend the night in a shop just outside of Tallahassee. Campsites we had reserved were changed by the campground.
Another night, fierce Arizona winds and rain rocked the camper so hard that sleep felt impossible after the water leak detector activated. Yet every setback became part of the adventure, teaching patience, resilience, and trust in strangers willing to help along the way.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY
BY DIANNA ULLERY
Alongside the fear came unforgettable joy. Albuquerque’s glowing sunsets painted the sky in deep oranges and reds. Utah offered towering red rock canyons and endless silence that made the world feel enormous. Colorado brought cool mountain air, winding roads, and mornings so beautiful they hardly seemed real.
The most emotional moment came early in the journey as I camped across from the site my parents had written about years earlier. Sitting there that evening, reading their journal beneath the same sky they once watched, I felt connected to them in a way I never had before.
What began as a road trip became something much deeper; a tribute to family, memory, and adventure. The miles, breakdowns, fear, and beauty blended into a journey I will carry with me forever. https://rehabandchiropractic.com/
Driven by Purpose
Simon
Marquez’s
rise in long-term care is shaped by hands-on beginnings, leadership, and a commitment to quality of care.
ARTICLE AND
PHOTOGRAPHY
BY SIMON MARQUEZ
SIMON MARQUEZ
LICENSED NURSING HOME
ADMINISTRATOR AT MAGNOLIA RIDGE REHABILITATION CENTER
Simon Marquez, a Licensed Nursing Home Administrator at Magnolia Ridge Rehabilitation Center, has dedicated over a decade to the longterm care industry. With experience leading large interdisciplinary teams and driving operational excellence, he is passionate about improving resident outcomes, strengthening staff culture, and elevating the standard of care. Simon is currently pursuing his Executive Master of Health Administration at the University of Central Florida and is committed to continuous growth, leadership development, and serving his community and family.
His journey began working in a housekeeping department alongside his father, an experience that continues to keep him grounded and connected to the purpose behind his work.
In his spare time, Simon enjoys spending time with his family. He is a proud father of two young boys, ages 3 and 2, who are learning sports.
On his toughest days, Simon reflects on how far he has come both personally and professionally. He reconnects with his purpose by returning to the floor, spending time with residents, and reminding himself why he chose a career in service to others.
He believes every challenge is an opportunity for growth. For Simon, growth does not happen in comfort; it happens when you step outside of it.
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Two Weeks in Thailand
Temples, cliffs, beaches, and the best Indian food of our lives — our Thailand honeymoon.
We went to Thailand for our honeymoon in February, exploring Chiang Mai and Koh Lanta.
Our first morning in Chiang Mai, jet-lagged from 26 hours of travel, we made the most of it. We climbed 306 steps to Doi Suthep, a sacred hilltop temple above the city, arriving as the sky turned shades of pink and orange.
The next afternoon we rode ATVs deep into the countryside, cooling off under a crystal waterfall hidden in the jungle.
From there, we flew south to Koh Lanta, where our resort sat on a cliff above the Andaman Sea, the kind of place where catching the sunset is your only responsibility. Monkeys wandered the rooftops and hung out in the local cafes. We found an Indian restaurant, the food so delicious we went back three more times.
Two weeks barely scratched the surface of this beautiful and vast country.
GreatFlorida Insurance Edwin Duque
ARTICLE BY EDWIN DUQUE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TAYLOR NOE
LA CRUZ: Your Tranquil, HIDDEN MEXICAN GEM NEAR
Puerto Vallarta
Discover this authentic coastal village boasting fresh markets and tranquil, world-class luxury.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY
BY RYNNI HENDERSON, PUBLISHER GAINESVILLE CITY LIFESTYLE
Forget the crowds and chaos of the big city—just 45 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta lies La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, a tranquil fishing village that remains one of the Riviera Nayarit’s best-kept secrets.
While you can easily access major amenities and international flights in PV, La Cruz offers a picturesque blend of old-world charm with cobblestone streets and modern luxury. Locals affectionately call it “La Cruz,” where authentic Mexican-style homes and condominiums attract people from around the world.
For generations, fishing has driven this coastal town. The heart of the village is the stunning Riviera Nayarit Marina, home to a world-class yacht club and the bustling Mercado del Mar seafood market. It’s famous for its daily fresh catch—red snapper, shrimp (the best by far ever!), and lobster—straight off the local boats. The Marina also hosts a vibrant Sunday Market during the high season, November through April, featuring local arts, crafts, and food vendors. Beyond the markets, La Cruz is an ideal hub for exploration. Wander through the Marina and the little town’s cobblestone streets, or spend a lazy afternoon on one of its beautiful beach sections. Right in town, you can also stop for a tasting at the local tequilaria to sample regional spirits. For the adventurous, deep-sea fishing for marlin or tuna is popular, along with snorkeling in the Bay of Banderas. La Cruz is the perfect destination for those seeking an authentic, peaceful Mexican paradise close to the action.
Building strong homes through smart planning, quality craftsmanship, and adventure, start to finish.
BUILDING A GAINESVILLE CUSTOM HOME
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY COREY AMIRA: AMIRA CUSTOM HOMES
Building a custom home in Gainesville is an adventure unlike anything else. It’s about creating a home that fits your lifestyle, your family, and how you want to live for years to come. Done right, the process should be exciting, straightforward, and something you genuinely enjoy from start to finish.
Every custom home starts with finding the right piece of property. Whether you’re looking for acreage in the country or the perfect lot in a great subdivision, the property sets the foundation for everything. Land may look perfect at first glance, but there can be hidden issues involving drainage, utilities, soil conditions, easements, or zoning restrictions. That’s why we like being involved early, helping clients evaluate properties carefully so there are no expensive surprises down the road.
Once the property is locked in, it’s time for plan design. This is where the vision starts becoming real. We prefer to be heavily involved because experience in the field matters when putting a home on paper. A good set of plans doesn’t just look great, it functions properly, flows well, and avoids costly problems during
construction. Attention to detail during drafting helps make sure the finished home turns out exactly the way you pictured it.
The selections phase is where the home starts taking on personality. Flooring, cabinets, lighting, countertops, trim details, and finishes all work together to create the final product. We work closely with homeowners and the top suppliers in the Gainesville area to help put together the right combinations and ensure every material meets the standard we expect in a custom home.
Then comes construction, the stage everybody waits for. This is where all the planning pays off. We put a major focus on preparation and communication before construction ever starts so the building process stays smooth, efficient, and organized. That allows homeowners to relax and enjoy watching their home come together piece by piece.
Building a Gainesville custom home is an adventure, no doubt about it. With the right team guiding the process, it becomes an experience your family will appreciate for generations!
https://amiracustomhomes.com/
ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE
The 10% Target Mindset
Jen Cohen ON THE PRACTICE OF ASKING FOR WHAT YOU WANT
Winnipeg in the winter, and a 17-year-old waits 45 minutes in the cold for Keanu Reeves. Her fingers are numb. She is not there for an autograph. She is there to ask him to appear in her audition tape for MuchMusic, Canada’s MTV. When he finally agrees, she writes her number on a gum wrapper with a borrowed lip liner.
He calls days later.
That 17-year-old was Jen Cohen — fitness expert, host of the Habits & Hustle podcast, and best-selling author. She has built a career on the premise her frostbitten afternoon proved. She calls the practice the 10% Target: 10 attempts at whatever you want most in life.
The premise is simple. Most people never make one attempt. Almost nobody makes two. The math works in favor of the person who keeps going.
The top-rated Habits & Hustle podcast has logged hundreds of conversations with high performers and the people who study what the body does to the mind. Her TEDx talk, The Secret to Getting Anything You Want in Life, has traveled widely inside Fortune 500 sales-training rooms. On the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Cohen sits down to share the working rules that are the foundation of her latest book, Bigger, Better, Bolder.
“You have to be the CEO of your own life.”
FEATURING JEN COHEN
Discover the full 10% Target Mindset framework.
1 2
MAKE TEN ATTEMPTS
The door opens, or another door does. The unmade attempt and the refused one leave you in the same place — except one of them teaches you something.
STACK THE DECK
Cohen frames her habits as a wager: How do I stack the deck so I win more than I lose? The workout happens first, and the food decisions follow. The email follow-up gets sent, and the answer arrives. The choices compound in a single direction.
3
DISCIPLINE IS A PRACTICED SKILL, NOT AN INHERITANCE
No one is born with it. The people who look disciplined are running a routine they have rehearsed long enough that it no longer feels like effort. The reps are the skill. Miss them, and the skill fades, the same as any other.
4
SELF-TALK ONLY WORKS WHEN THE BODY BACKS IT UP
Confidence does not arrive by repeating the word. It arrives after the body has done the thing — the workout finished, the cold walk endured, the email sent. The mind takes its cues from what the body proves it can do. Talk follows action, not the other way around.
5
NEVER MISS A MONDAY
The first decision sets the slope of the rest. Skip the Monday workout, and the rest of the week tends to follow. Hold the line on Monday, and the slope tilts the other way.
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Discovery: A Journey of Exploration
“The
senses, being explorers of the world, open the way to knowledge”.
(Dr. Maria Montessori)
Children are naturally curious. They are on a self-directed journey of exploration through their five senses. They build their independence and develop concentration when they are free to pursue hands-on activities uninterrupted for long periods of time, becoming active explorers in the process.
We all have noticed that young children like to repeat activities over and over again. They do this to refine their senses as they compare, contrast, and make a judgment. This is because they are refining their senses, allowing them to notice details and variations of the things in their world which they are experiencing. They are also compelled to touch as many things as possible. Their hands are extensions of their eyes.
Aristotle said that “There is nothing in the intellect that was not first in the senses”. Everything we are as adults was founded in all the work we did as a child through our senses. Through repetition
and observation, a child experiences points of consciousness where a discovery is born and the lightbulb turns on. These moments are very exciting and profound and give fuel to deeper exploration.
Whereas older children are thinking abstractly and are more interested in the how and why of their world, young children are thinking concretely. It is important to build in plenty of time while they are sensing new things and building impressions. This, in turn, builds creativity because creativity is an expression of one’s impressions. Many impressions are needed and tools to express them need to be provided.
As we venture off into the summer vacations, be mindful of how children need to explore and be a facilitator and guide to your children as you share in their moments of discovery.
Enjoy your children as you explore together. Live in the moment as much as possible, and, perhaps, discover your inner child.
https://www.millhopper.com/
Every day brings new opportunities to explore, whether it’s working toward your goals, discovering new entertainment, connecting with loved ones, or learning something new online. Pavlov Media delivers fast, reliable fiber Internet designed to help Gainesville residents explore more of what matters most without limits.
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Where Your Dream Jewelry Becomes Reality
At Govind & Sons Fine Jewelry, every piece tells a story crafted with passion, precision, and generations of expertise. Meet Gopal, a proud third-generation jeweler dedicated to helping Gainesville celebrate life’s most meaningful moments with extraordinary custom jewelry. From breathtaking engagement rings to timeless heirloom pieces, every design is handcrafted to reflect your vision, style, and love story. Whether you are marking an engagement, anniversary, birthday, or milestone celebration, Govind & Sons Fine Jewelry offers unmatched craftsmanship, personal attention, and luxury made just for you. Discover why discerning clients across Gainesville trust Gopal to create jewelry as unforgettable as the memories behind it.
