Bella August Pensacola 2025

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

• Guardian ad Litem

• Anna Niles’ travel tips

• Marathon training

• Pretty Kicks Sneaker Ball

• FavorHouse Round-Up

Dreaming of

TRAVEL

Inspiration for whether you’re traveling solo, enjoying a staycation or going with a group

from the editor

I need to take the advice of my oldest daughter, who says you have to stop dreaming about a trip and just go.

“Book the tickets and figure it out after,” she said to me once, acknowledging my propensity to think something right into its grave.

And still, I plot and plan and procrastinate, and then a million excuses get in the way of me and my next trip.

I should also take a cue from my mother-in-law, who once risked ending her marriage by booking a trip for our family to the beloved North Carolina mountains where she grew up. She had been wanting to rent a house for us all for Thanksgiving, and my father-in-law would have none of it. I’m sure he thought it was too expensive, and he wasn’t much for trips that were longer than three days. A whole week in a house with her and my family of five (including three very noisy children) must have sounded like torture to him.

She found a place and booked it anyway. It’s not hyperbole to say he didn’t speak to her for a month leading up to the trip.

And then we all had one of the best weeks of our lives, playing games, watching movies, wandering through the surrounding towns, just relaxing and spending fun family time together. By day three, he was asking her to go ahead and book it again for the next year. He loved every minute of it.

We repeated that trip for several years after, and those are some of our best family memories.

Sometimes, we just need a little nudge (or a swift kick in the metaphorical rear), don’t we?

Currently on my radar are Ireland and Scotland, California wine country, Canada and countless other destinations. I think this month’s issue will nudge me to go ahead and book my next trip.

How about you? Here’s wishing you happy travels, wherever your travel dreams take you!

— Lisa Player

Do you enjoy Bella? Would you like to share your thoughts? Feel free to reach out to me anytime at lisa@bellamagazine.com.

PUBLISHER / Kelly MacLeod

EDITOR / Lisa Player

ART DIRECTOR / Elizabeth Meyer

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Liz Biggs, Sharla Gorder, Alice Crann Good, Allison McCrory, Chelsea Owens, Leslie Peck, Cynthia Reeves, Justine Williams Roper, Sonshine, Magi Thomley Williams

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Toni Sparks, Kate Treick

OR CALL (833) 358-4486

meet the team

Liz Biggs, writer/columnist

Liz Biggs is a Pensacola native and mother of four. Once upon a time, she had a high-pressure career, but now she has a pension and is a freelance writer for Bella Magazine. Liz enjoys music, dancing, tennis and travel and tries to find humor in everything.

Kristin Holifield Cagle, advertising

Kristin Holifield Cagle is a fifth-generation Pensacola native who loves to help women and business owners alike achieve their goals. With a master’s degree from the University of West Florida, she specializes in marketing. She is the mother of two and enjoys soaking up the sun at the beach and spending time with family in her spare time.

Alice Crann Good, writer

Award-winning writer Alice Crann Good spent 20 years with USA TODAY and Pensacola News Journal; accolades include the Scripps Howard Foundation National Journalism Award. She was also a state college PR specialist and is author of Betsy the Bookworm children’s book series.

Sharla Gorder, writer/columnist

Sharla Dawn Gorder is a Pensacola Beach resident and columnist for the Island Times newspaper. She is the author of “My Vices Collide; a Celebration of Being a Little Messed Up,” and “Crayon Dawn,” a coffee table book sold in stores throughout the Pensacola area and at her website, crayondawn.com.

Jennifer Harrison, advertising

Jennifer Harrison is a Pensacola native (via the Navy). She is involved in the Pensacola community through IMPACT 100, Pensacola Navy Days, charitable food distributions, Leadership Pensacola, ECPS Foundation, Achieve Escambia, ECCPTA and more.

Allison McCrory, writer/fashion stylist

Allison McCrory is almost a Pensacola native who has worked in writing and editing since 1984 when she started with The News, an afternoon newspaper that later merged with the morning Journal. The mom of two adult kids, Allison suffers from a tennis addiction, practices yoga and loves to cook.

Elizabeth Meyer, art director

Elizabeth Meyer spent her early career as a designer and design director at newspapers across the country. She is currently an adjunct instructor and director of The McKinley Avenue Agency at Ball State University. Betsy was born in Pensacola while her father was in the U.S. Navy.

Chelsea Owens, writer

Chelsea Owens grew up in Gulf Breeze and received degrees in communications and art from the University of West Florida. She has a lifelong passion for style and art, and over 10 years of social media and marketing experience. She is also a pilates instructor who enjoys both staying busy and relaxing at the beach.

Cynthia Reeves, writer

Long-time writer Cynthia Reeves spent 25 years as a broadcast journalist across the southeast, including 10 years as a news reporter at WEAR-TV in Pensacola. As a high school teacher of journalism, TV production and English, she passed her skills down to young writers. She also served several years as District 1 director for the Florida Scholastic Press Association.

Justine Williams Roper, writer

Justine Williams Roper is a doctor of physical therapy, personal trainer, and speaker from Pensacola. She has written women's health articles for publications like Essence and enjoys all things movement and food. She is the proud owner of InHer Physique Pelvic Floor Therapy & Wellness, where her passion for women’s health truly shines.

Leslie Peck, writer/beauty expert

Leslie Peck is a local aesthetician, makeup artist, lash artist and brow specialist. She has experience in TV, film, print and celebrity makeup in Los Angeles and 11 seasons of NYC Fashion week. Leslie was featured on the front page of the Wall Street Journal in 2007 for her work at Fashion Week.

Leah Seacrest, writer/fitness expert

Leah Seacrest, a seasoned fitness industry veteran with over 30 years, experience in group fitness and personal training, co-owns REGYMEN Fitness Pensacola and is the SVP of REGYMEN Fitness overseeing operations and franchise growth. She is a mother of three and loves spending time outdoors.

Sonshine, writer

Sonshine is a Northwest Florida media personality, currenting hosting “Sonshine’s Corner” on BLAB TV. She is a business consultant, author, motivational speaker and fitness consultant. Sonshinemoorer@gmail.com.

Toni Sparks, photographer

Toni Sparks is a proud Pensacola native. As the visionary behind Short Story Studios, Toni is dedicated to creating magazine-quality images with elegance and style. Her experiences infuse her photography with a unique perspective that celebrates and elevates every moment.

Kate Treick, photographer

Kate Treick is a professional photographer, writer, speaker and publisher who has called Pensacola home since 2012. She and her husband, Joel, have two teenaged kids and two funny little dogs. Kate loves spending time with friends, leading music at her church, reading and traveling. kate@katetreickphotography.com

Magi Thomley Williams, advertising/writer

Magi Thomley Williams, ACB, ALB is a business and nonprofit consultant, writer, trainer and speaker. Dedicated to improving her community by helping nonprofits build their boards, improve their media presence and attract donor funding, Magi enjoys writing about impactful nonprofits, thriving businesses and the women who lead them. Magi@ThomleyConsulting.com.

Teresa Torres Zwierzchowski, social media

Teresa Zwierzchowski has more than 20 years’ experience in communications, including more than 15 working for the Pensacola News Journal. She is a lover of all things communication including brand, culture, social media as well as community and public relations.

inside this issue

Fearless, Fabulous travel Page 28

WORTH THE TRIP: Adventuring in Santorini 60 OUT & ABOUT: FavorHouse Round-Up 64 HER PERSPECTIVE: How I met your father 66 HER PERSPECTIVE: Death and taxes — but mostly death LOCAL FARE

Niles Page 30

8 SPEND OR SAVE 10 FASHION: Travel in style 20 BEAUTY: Ready, set, glow! 22 CAUSES: Guardian ad Litem 24 COVER: Traveling solo

BODY & SOUL: The rise of marathoners

WORTH THE TRIP: From Croatia, with love

WORTH THE TRIP: Vogel State Park

& ABOUT Pretty Kicks Sneaker Ball Page 56

On the cover: Model Taylor Bowles looks dreamy in a blush satin nightgown by PJ Harlow and a tulle-banded cardigan by Only Hearts from The Market & Mainly Shoes. Story page 10.

Photo by Kate Treick Photography

BY

spendorsave

• Justine maxi basket bag, $390, sezane.com

• The Emmy sunglasses, $150, jimmyfairly.com

• SPRWMN baggy easy pants, $375, fwrd.com

• Striped resort tote bag, $60, abercrombie.com

• Oval sunglasses, $9.99, hm.com

• Linen-blend drawstring pants, $29.99, hm.com

CHELSEA OWENS / BELLAMAGAZINE.COM / PHOTOS PROVIDED

fashion

TRAVEL IN STYLE

By Allison McCrory / Photos by Kate Treick Photography

Hitting the road or the skies this summer? Peg Woolverton of The Market & Mainly Shoes on South Palafox in Pensacola has some tips.

“Keep the colors at a minimum and pack items that can be worn in multiple ways,” she suggested.

Scarves can be wraps, skirts can be dresses, infinity dresses can be wrapped and twisted to create multiple looks, jeans can be dressed up or down, even loungewear (aka PJs) can do double duty. Flowy dresses, uber popular in 2025, are up to the task of making a pretty travel statement, day or night. Simply change up the accessories to dress up or down.

Cross-body bags and sneakers are on trend and perfect for traveling in comfort and safety. And of course, don’t leave home without a pair of statement sunglasses.

Wide-leg jeans and pants are showing up in denim, linen, cotton and washed silk this summer. You can’t go wrong with tanks, midi skirts and white jeans.

If you’re staying in Florida all summer, Woolverton has suggestions for staying fresh and comfortable despite the sweltering heat:

“Wear loose-fitting clothing in natural fibers.”

Shopping list: Matching sets are a 2025 style star. Embrace the promise of fall in this versatile top and shorts in clay, polished off with bold accessories in warm tones. Top and shorts by ReBoot, each $78.

Shopping list: Pack this pretty satin nightgown in blush, $85, by PJ Harlow when traveling to look and feel your silky soft best. Add a tulle-banded cardigan, $90, in cream by Only Hearts for extra polish.

Shopping list: Feeling

and

feminine

funky? Pull on these pink velvet Marra Kech capri pants, $290, and team with a versatile Michael Stars top in cement, $78. Finish off the look with silver sparkle and shine accessories.

Taylor Bowles

Travel can be internal or external.

Taylor Bowles transports her energy to new realms when she collects seashells from her happy place, the beach, and transforms them into new works of art. When on a road trip, Bowles loves to try out new restaurants, savoring the new tastes as well as sites along her path.

“There are so many places I haven’t been, I would enjoy going almost anywhere,” she said.

“Traveling across the world is always something I have wanted to do. Italy is one of the top places on my list, but I would love to go anywhere new to experience different lifestyles and cultures.”

In the meantime, the Pace High and UWF criminal justice graduate loves to stay active.

“Hotworx is my current fixation, but I enjoy going to the gym too.”

Shopping list: Classy! Comfortable! Cool! This lavender set in breathable fibers by Brunella will win in every setting. Top, $398, and pant, $448.

Shopping list: Otherworldly with an ethnic influence, this dress and scarf by Brunella is crafted on the Amalfi Coast. Dress is $610 and scarf is $360.

About the location

Lily Hall 415 N. Alcaniz St., Pensacola; 850-304-7944; lilyhall.com

Clothes compliments of The Market & Mainly Shoes

700 S. Palafox St., Pensacola; 850-434-3012; ashopforwomen.com

Hair & Makeup compliments of Hair by Anna Torubara anna-torubara.square.site; Instagram/atorubara; 850-485-2301; annatorubara95@gmail.com

Makeup by Kendall Frazee www.skinbykendalllyn.com; Instagram/kendalllyn_skin; 850-324-5699; KFrazeeBeauty@gmail.com

Model compliments of Izon Models & Talent LLC

301 N. Barcelona St., Suite E, Pensacola; 850-433-2099; izonmodels.com

stylingthe shoot

Where to shop: The Market & Mainly Shoes

NYC ball cap, $42

Latico oat crossbody purse, $180

Jambu gunmetal shoes, $135

Photography: Kate Treick / Fashion styling: Allison McCrory

Crystal large stud earrings, $85.

Florence, Italy handmade architectural bracelets, $200 each Cintino boots, $575

Jessica Simpson brown suede hat, $48

Set of four bracelets, $68

B-low the Belt, $165

Italian Africa necklaces, $42 each

Sarah Cavender Metalworks (local) clip earrings, $95

Donald Pliner Platino sandals, $195

Tortoise sunglasses, $25

Earring and bracelet set, $138

Crossbody chrome purse, $48

Inkdivas vintage shoes, $350

Quartz color ring, $48

Kim White champagne belt, $150

Silver oval drop earrings, $75

Braided leather handbag, $205

beauty

Ready, Set, Glow!

If you are soaking up the last bits of summer by getting away, here are a few tips to make sure you have what you need while traveling. When packing your beauty essentials, make a list of your must-haves and try to keep it simple. It is best to stick to your regular skincare when traveling, even if that means putting it into smaller travel containers if travel-size products aren’t available. You don’t want to throw your skin into a tailspin by introducing new products while away. Take a few key items that can be used in multiple ways, and don’t forget to incorporate products with hydration and sunscreen. Check out this list of great travel essentials (some pictured) that can be purchased locally.

WHERE TO SHOP:

• Sephora: Cordova Mall, 5100 N. Ninth Ave., Pensacola; 850-473-0083; sephora.com

• Result Medical Aesthetics and Permanent Makeup: 400 E. Jackson St., Pensacola; 850-361-4024; resultskin. com

• Cordova Skin and Body: 5043 Bayou Blvd., Pensacola; 850-741-2495; cordovaskin. com

Story and photos by Leslie Peck

1. Caudalie Instant Detox Mask, $22, Sephora

2. Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara Minis, $16, Sephora

3. JVN Pre-Wash Scalp Oil, $16, Sephora

4. Urban Decay Mini Setting Spray, $18, Sephora

5. Sephora mini brush set, $22, Sephora

6. NARS Mini Afterglow Liquid Blush and Lip Shine Duo, $32, Sephora

7. Charlotte Tillbury Pillow Talk Lip Kit, $25, Sephora

8. Tatcha Glow-Giving Mini Favorites, $65, Sephora

9. Summer Fridays The Jet Lag Essential Set, $34, Sephora

10. Fenty Hair The Maintenance Crew, $47, Sephora

11. Supergoop! Icons Only, $30, Sephora

12. Dae Freshly Picked Styling Trio, $42, Sephora

13. Anika Signature Saviors & Rescue Team, $30, Sephora

14. Laneige Icons To Go, $27, Sephora

15. Maison Louise Marie Eau de Parfume Discovery Set, $25, Result Medical Aesthetics and Permanent Makeup

16. Maison Louise Marie Perfume Oil Discovery Set, $55, Result Medical Aesthetics and Permanent Makeup

17. Tyler Candle Company Travel Candles, $8, Cordova Skin and Body

18. Colorscience Brush On Powder Sunscreen, $69, (30% off through August 30th) Cordova Skin and Body

The lifesaving role of Guardian ad Litem Advocates causes Standing in the gap

By Sonshine

In courtrooms across Florida, the smallest voices often go unheard — unless a Guardian ad Litem speaks up. In Pensacola, dozens of children navigating abuse, neglect or abandonment find strength in the volunteers who stand with them when no one else will. Sara Urban, Guardian ad Litem director of recruitment and statewide event coordinator, recently shared more about the organization’s important work.

What is the Guardian ad Litem Office?

The Florida Guardian ad Litem Office represents the legal interests of children who have experienced abuse, abandonment or neglect. Each child is assigned a multidisciplinary team that includes a Guardian ad Litem attorney, a child welfare professional and, ideally, a trained volunteer from the community. Together, the Guardian ad Litem team provides high-quality legal representation while building meaningful connections with the child, gathering critical information and advocating for the child’s needs in court and the community. Each team member plays a vital role in supporting the child’s well-being throughout their involvement in the child welfare system.

For those unfamiliar, can you explain the core mission of the Florida Guardian ad Litem Office and how it works in practice?

To provide the most vulnerable children in Florida with an adult from their community who will be a consistent, positive presence in the child’s life as part of a multi-disciplinary team that includes an attorney, child welfare professional and hopefully a community volunteer providing the highest quality community advocacy and legal representation to protect each child’s legal interests. To provide dependency judges with thorough and accurate information regarding the children under the court’s jurisdiction.

Why does this matter in Escambia and Santa Rosa Counties?

Escambia and Santa Rosa Counties have approximately 1,170 children in the child welfare system. In 2024, the Florida Guardian ad Litem Office served 31,000 children throughout the state. While the numbers may fluctuate, the need remains consistent — children in our own community need someone willing to walk with them. Volunteers from all walks of life can make a meaningful difference in the life of a child right here at home.

What led you personally to become involved with Florida Guardian ad Litem Office, and what keeps you inspired in this work?

I became involved because I believe every child deserves someone in their corner. What keeps me inspired is witnessing our volunteers and staff show up day after day for children who have already faced so much. Their resilience and dedication are truly powerful.

What are the biggest challenges your office faces in meeting the needs of vulnerable children here in our community?

Our biggest challenge includes recruiting and retaining enough volunteers.

What is the most rewarding — and the most challenging — aspect of your role?

The most rewarding part of this work is seeing the difference we can make — whether it’s helping reunify a family, celebrating a child’s graduation, supporting consistent school placement, connecting a teen with a mentor or simply being a steady, trusted presence during a time of uncertainty. The greatest challenge is finding enough committed volunteers to help provide that sense of stability and support to every child who needs it.

The Office meets its mission through a dedicated team that works to provide each child with a consistent advocate –someone who knows them, understands their needs, and can

Guardian ad Litem always needs more volunteers, especially for teens and children in rural areas. You can become a Guardian ad Litem volunteer, mentor a youth as they prepare to age out of foster care, donate to the Florida Guardian ad Litem Foundation or help spread awareness. Visit guardianadlitem.org to learn more or get involved.

independently investigate and offer the court critical information to support informed decisions.

How does the Guardian ad Litem volunteer role differ from the Guardian ad Litem attorney or child welfare professional?

The Guardian ad Litem volunteer works on the child’s multi-disciplinary team alongside the attorney and child welfare professional to represent the child using a best interest standard of decision-making. Each member of the team builds a connection with the child and takes the time to understand the details of their life. Guardian ad Litem volunteers are community members who choose to stand up for these children. They often form one-on-one connections, and, in some cases, are the one consistent presence throughout the case and beyond. Together, the team provides the court with clear, consistent recommendations that prioritize the child’s safety, stability and future.

What qualifications or training are required to volunteer with the Florida Guardian ad Litem Office?

Volunteers must be at least 21 years old, pass a background check and complete training provided by our office. No legal background is required — just a willingness to show up, listen and make a difference. Training is tailored to the volunteer role chosen. Volunteers are supported every step of the way with expert guidance, mentorship and ongoing education.

Is there currently a waiting list of children in need of a Guardian ad Litem volunteer or mentor?

While every child in the Florida Guardian ad Litem Office – Circuit One is represented by both a Guardian ad Litem attorney and a child welfare professional, we are still working to increase the number of community volunteers and pro bono attorneys who serve as the third vital member of the team. Local teens in foster care are also waiting for mentors to help guide them as they prepare for adulthood. To help support our team and to reach these goals, we need more volunteers.

Can you share an example that illustrates the difference a Guardian ad Litem volunteer made in a child’s life?

A 17-year-old who had dropped out of school was paired with a Guardian ad Litem volunteer who helped enroll him in a technical program, secured tutoring and drove him to class. Today, he’s working full-time in HVAC and credits that volunteer for helping him find a future he never thought was possible.

How has the foster care or child welfare landscape changed locally in the past five to 10 years?

We’ve seen an increase in complex cases involving trauma, as well as a rise in the number of older youth entering care. The Florida Guardian ad Litem Office now represents 100% of children in the child welfare system, a significant milestone

in child advocacy. In addition to legal representation, the Office is also responsible for helping teens identify mentors who can provide support even after their dependency case closes and they enter adulthood.

What do you wish more people in the Pensacola area knew about the Florida Guardian ad Litem Office?

That you don’t need a legal background to make a lifechanging impact. Our volunteers are just like you — retirees, working professionals, parents — who just want to help. You can make a difference in the life of a child, too!

How can someone become a volunteer — and what would you say to someone who’s on the fence about applying?

Ready to make a difference? Visit guardianadlitem.org to start your application. A member of our team will connect with you to explore the different ways you can get involved. If you’re unsure, know that you won’t be doing this alone. You’ll be part of a dedicated team focused on helping children find safe, permanent homes where they can grow and thrive. We provide full training and ongoing support — if you care about children, we’ll help you turn that care into impact

In addition to volunteering, are there other ways people can support your mission?

Yes, our mission can be supported in many ways. Donating to the Florida Guardian ad Litem Foundation is one powerful option. The Foundation is the direct support organization for the Florida Guardian ad Litem Office. Your support helps fund essential needs for children, such as everyday activities, clothing and school supplies. It also supports volunteer training, recruitment and outreach efforts, allowing us to continue advocating for children in the dependency system. Supporters can also follow us on social media, host awareness events or simply help spread the word in their communities. Every effort makes a difference and brings us closer to making sure every child has the advocacy and support they deserve.

What are your goals for the future of Florida Guardian ad Litem Office in this region?

Every child in dependency court already has a Guardian ad Litem team. Our goal is to strengthen that support by increasing the number of community volunteers and expanding youth mentoring opportunities — for teens who are aging out of foster care — so more young people have a trusted adult to guide, encourage and help them prepare for the future.

How can local media and community leaders be better partners in supporting your work?

We’re fortunate to have strong community support, and we’re grateful for so many partnerships! At the same time, we’ll always continue to highlight the ongoing need for more community volunteers — because each individual volunteer has the power to change the trajectory of a child’s life!

cover story

SOLO Traveling

Seeking adventure, connection and escape

Story and photos by Cynthia Reeves

Staff writer Cynthia Reeves visits the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion, Greece.

“You’re going alone?” “Yes, just me!” “WOW!”

When I first began talking about taking my first solo journey, the reaction was mixed. Some people looked at me with pity; others with envy and respect. Although many questioned why I was striking out alone, I did have my fair share of cheerleaders.

“You go girl!”

I chose to fly to Athens, Greece, and take a cruise through the Greek Isles and Turkey. It was my dream to see and explore these beautiful sun-kissed places full of history and culture. My “Greek Glow” cruise took me to Rhodes, Santorini and Crete, as well as Bodrum, Turkey.

As a former ninth-grade English teacher who loved introducing her students to the Greek myths and Homer’s “The Odyssey,” I imagined myself a modern-day but feminine Odysseus. I was on an epic quest, braving the seas, testing my strength and endurance, and making new friends along the way.

In Athens, I found myself admiring a stunning statue of Athena, the patron goddess of the city. Athena is the Greek goddess of wisdom, strategy and warfare. She is also associated with the arts, crafts and heroic endeavors. I also connected with her. Traveling alone was my heroic endeavor. I was nervous, but confident.

Athena’s motto is “quod obstat viae fit via,” which translates to: “When the obstacle becomes the way.” There would be no obstacles for me. I was determined to strike out on my own, battle any trepidations and make my dreams come true.

A GROWING TREND

I am far from alone when it comes to a desire to travel independently. Solo travel, particularly for women, is the fastest-growing travel trend.

The Solo Traveler 2024 online reader survey (solotravelerworld.com) showed some interesting trends. 80% of the

respondents were women, and most were over the age of 55, like me.

Here are some of the statistics:

72% of American women travelers were taking solo journeys.

American women ranked first in frequent solo travel and were most likely to take three trips or more in a given year. 65% of U.S. women polled have vacationed without a partner.

According to Booking.com’s 2024 travel predictions, “solo travel is booming, with 59% looking to venture alone. These are not just single people. Even parents are joining the trend, with 58% planning child-free trips and prioritizing self-growth.”

WHY TRAVEL SOLO

I know my “why” had much to do with wanting to travel and see the world, but I was unwilling to wait for others who did not have the budget or ability to take time off work. I unapologetically had a “nothing is stopping me” attitude.

Janice Waugh, a writer for Solotravelerworld.com, explored the question, “Why do women travel solo more than men?” Her conclusion is a desire for individualism. She believes the traditional role for women in the past — that 1950s expectation for the stay-athome mom — gave women “a greater hunger for individualism than men, a greater need to ‘do your own thing,’ and this has contributed to their desire to travel solo.”

Waugh also believes women who came of age during second-wave feminism in the 1960s are now Boomers with the confidence of feminism, and they “are in a position of less responsibility and the freedom to travel solo.”

That is me. I’m a Boomer born in 1961.

Waugh adds that women are also “simply better at being on their own than men.”

The most common response women

Cynthia Reeves’ adventure took her for a dip in crystal waters at Afandou Beach (top), the ruins of ancient Aptera on the island of Crete (above left), and picturesque seaside villages near Bodrum, Turkey (above right).

give when asked about a decision to travel alone is “to do what I want, when I want.” There is a self-sufficiency we solo travelers embrace.

On my first solo cruise, I was fortunate to meet a lovely woman from Texas who was on her first solo cruise as well. Carol Sheehan is a recent widow embarking on a new chapter of her life she bravely calls “Carol 2.0.”

“Solo travel, especially for women, is very empowering,” she said. “My decision to go solo came after discussing various trips with friends. When none of them were able or willing to join me, I suddenly realized that I didn’t have to wait! I could literally go anywhere by myself! My journeys have given me a renewed sense of confidence and pride. I realize now just how capable I really am!”

WHAT TO DO

Prior to her solo cruise in May this year, Sheehan had taken a land-based solo tour to Ireland with EF Tours in December 2024. She made several new friends on the excursion and has already taken trips with some of her new travel gal pals. EF has long been a source for the solo traveler, but recently introduced a new endeavor called “EF Go Ahead Tours for Women.” The motto is: “Come as you are. Go for you.”

The EF ad paints a picture of sharing “heart-expanding moments” with new friends by your side. There are seven immersive new tours designed just for ladies “to foster connections (and latenight belly-laughs) with your fellow women travelers.” Destinations include Ireland, Italy, Egypt, Peru, Spain and the Greek Islands.

EF is one of many resources for women seeking solo travel, but a Google search will reveal there are many to choose from. A few I discovered were: New Solo-ish Adventures by G Adventures, Cosmos, Road Scholar and Solos Guided Tours. And introtravel.com, Trip Advisor and Booking.com are also good resources. Look for excursions using the apps Viator or Get Your Guide. These tours offer every kind of vacation from all-inclusive travel adventures to river cruises, city discoveries, photography trips, culinary experiences and more.

Many cruise lines now offer single staterooms and amenities specifically designed for solo travelers as well. Cruise lines like Norwegian, Virgin Voyages, Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises offer dedicated solo accommodations and social events.

PELVIC FLOOR

PELVIC FLOOR THERAPY & WELLNESS

Cruising is a favorite pastime for solo travelers. Most cruise lines offer a solo meet up, group dining opportunities and ice breaker games to help singles mix and mingle.

I chose to cruise on Virgin Voyages for my solo trek because it is an adult-only cruise line. I imagined I would fit in better in that setting. I immediately joined every Facebook group I could for tips for solo travelers to get familiar with opportunities. My first mate travel agent on the cruise line also gave me advice. I am the type of person who enjoys my own company, but I am also very social. I found it ironic that my ship was named The Resilient Lady — fitting because that describes exactly how I felt going it alone.

The first night, Virgin, like many other cruise lines, offered a solo meet-up so independent travelers could connect with like-minded individuals. It is there that I met my newfound friend, Sheehan, who became my dinner companion each night. The solo group of us connected through WhatsApp. Each night there were offers to meet for karaoke, trivia or to see shows together. Solo travel does not mean solitude — unless that is what an individual is seeking.

MAKING FRIENDS

I also found that travel was much about making new friends. Daunting as it seems, it is actually not just a thing for the extroverted and outgoing.

Waugh from Solotravelerworld.com acknowledges not everyone takes to it naturally.

“There are concerns around loneliness, safety and more,” she explains.

I admit, I did have a few fears of sitting awkwardly at a dinner table by myself, but that was certainly not the case. Like Waugh, I found if you plan and put yourself out there, “solo travel can be as social as you want.”

Kimberli, a blogger with Worldpackers. com, offers several tips for solo travelers, such as joining online travel groups, being approachable (minimizing electronics and avoiding closed body language), allowing for spontaneity and striking up conversations during transit. To stay safe, choose who you speak with carefully and stay in public places.

FINAL REFLECTION

I did make a few rookie mistakes on my first solo trip. I overpacked; I overplanned; I overbooked myself; but I learned a valuable lesson. I am more than capable of enjoying my own company, making new friends and fulfilling my dreams of seeing bright, beautiful places without a companion by my side. Like Sheehan, I feel empowered, and like her, I am ready to go again.

Travel advice from Anna Niles

A flight attendant’s TOP TIPS

By

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PASSPORT

Lisa Player

Photos by Kate Treick Photography

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or new to the skies, tips to make your journey more enjoyable are always welcome. Anna Niles, a longtime flight attendant and frequent world traveler, recently shared her best tips for packing and flying, some of her favorite destinations, what to bring back from your trip, and how not to be THAT person on a plane.

Niles, who lives in Gulf Breeze, is the mother of five and is married to Thomas, a pilot. She’s been flying for 38 years, and she doesn’t plan to stop anytime soon. After a brief stint as a college counselor at Pensacola State College (the former PJC), Niles tagged along with a friend and applied for a flight attendant job on a lark. Then she got the job. She started with Piedmont, then switched to U.S. Airways, which then became American.

“After 9/11, I took a 10-year leave. A lot of people didn’t even know I was a flight attendant,” she said.

The airlines offered leaves of absence after 9/11 because air travel slowed dramatically. Niles, who had four children at the time, took one of the offered leaves, which helped prevent another flight attendant from being furloughed. She had her youngest child during this hiatus and was allowed to retain her years of service and seniority. Once she went back to work, she had the seniority to start doing international destinations, and that opened up the world for her family.

“I started taking my kids on my trips. And they fell in love with travel. I just made it work.”

Whether her trips were domestic or international, she’d often have one or more of her kids in tow. Niles would work on the flight on the way, then have a layover for one or more days to explore with the kids.

“People thought I was crazy, but I’m like, you know what? This is what this job is all about. We always said that the kids’ experiences are as valuable as their education. I think travel is something that’s so important,” she said.

Having been all over the globe, Niles is happy to share her travel expertise.

PLAN AND PLAN SOME MORE

Niles stresses the importance of good planning because there are always glitches when flying.

“You just always have a backup plan. You know, more than

one backup plan. A, B, C and D.”

She recommends starting your trip early in the morning.

“I’ll start with the first flight out. I know it’s hard to get up in the morning, but go with the first flight,” she said.

That way, you’re less likely to feel the consequences of earlier flight delays, and you still have time to get another flight out if yours is cancelled. Check the flight schedules for the day and know whether there’s another one you can take if you need to. Also, be sure to know what hotels are near the airport if you have to stay overnight. If the first leg of your flight is delayed, are you going to miss your connection? If you can already tell that’s going to happen, get on your app or phone right away and start trying to rebook on another flight. Don’t wait until you land and get in line with everyone else.

If you have a special dietary restriction, you should order your meals (for longer flights only) at least 24 hours in advance. If not, they might not be available.

Ensure that older passengers who require assistance have sufficient time to arrive at the airport, get settled, and also have enough time between flights to transfer to a new terminal or gate.

Niles says that on longer flights, she recommends going ahead and buying a seat for a two-and-under child. Having that extra space to handle your child is priceless.

While at the airport, stay alert and check your phone for gate and flight changes. The airlines sometimes don’t change the gate sign when a gate changes, and Niles told the story of an older couple who missed a gate change announcement and continued sitting at the wrong gate, almost missing their flight.

PERFECT PACKING

Great packing is key to having a great trip. Start with your carry-on bag.

“Basically, as long as you have money, your medicine, and one change of clothes, you’re good,” Niles advised.

Consider bringing along some anti-nausea medicine, either over the counter or prescription, if you tend to get motion sickness.

Sometimes, the airline doesn’t load the wired headphones to use to watch the in-flight entertainment, so she advises planning for that, among other things.

“Be prepared; bring everything you think you might need,

“I always try and treat people on the plane like it was my family, you know, how I’d want somebody to treat my mother or my child,” she said. “I do really think about the fact that people don’t travel all the time like I do.”

— Anna Niles

attendants won’t do it.

“I don’t want you to get dehydrated because on the longer flights, I mean, you will pass out,” she said.

especially if you have kids. We don’t stock diapers. We don’t have snacks for your baby,” she said.

Depending on the length of your trip, you might want to try to keep it to one bag, so pack light with versatile clothes that don’t wrinkle and that you can layer and wear in multiple ways. Some sprayon wrinkle releaser would be handy.

“I do like the packing cubes, because they do kind of keep things separate. And I just use a good old-fashioned Ziploc bag for the liquid stuff, so that doesn’t spill out in your bag,” Niles said.

When planning to check luggage or other large items, keep this in mind: If you are late to the airport, you may have to book another flight. The airlines won’t check luggage when it’s too close to departure (usually 45 minutes for domestic and one hour for international flights). So arrive early if you’re planning to check bags.

It’s also smart to add something to your bags to distinguish them from others.

“A lot of flight attendants will have things that say, ‘This is not your bag,’” Niles said.

Any type of loud bag tag, bright luggage strap or unique ribbon tied to the handle will help.

Niles always brings disposable plastic grocery bags to put shoes in because of dirt and germs picked up while traveling, and she carries a little set of international outlet plug converters.

SLEEP AND TRAVEL

Traveling can be exhausting, and there are endless tips for how to handle jet lag. Niles, for one, doesn’t want to miss a minute at a fabulous destination.

“I don’t nap. Unless I land at six in the morning — when I may nap for about an hour — I go right out, especially if I take any of my family with me because you’ve only got a short time. You can do a lot in 24 hours,” she said. “And I totally mess up my sleep schedule

if I stay on our time. So my tip is immediately get on their time.”

One way to do this is to get out in sunlight as soon as you can, which will help to reset your body’s circadian rhythm quickly.

Since Niles is working on the flight, she often doesn’t get to sleep midair, except for longer trips when the crew actually gets breaks to nap.

“But, when you’re on the plane as a passenger, you probably need to go ahead and rest up so you can be ready to go,” Niles said.

However, she advises against taking a powerful narcotic sleep aid, which can be problematic for both the knockedout sleeper and nearby passengers, who might have to crawl over them to go to the bathroom.

DON’T BE A PROBLEM PASSENGER

Niles really enjoys her job, and most passengers are wonderful. But there are always a few challenges. She mostly stresses treating the crew with respect and understanding the rules that limit what they can and can’t do for you.

“I always try and treat people on the plane like it was my family, you know, how I’d want somebody to treat my mother or my child,” she said. “I do really think about the fact that people don’t travel all the time like I do.”

She said that there are different levels of travelers, and some are not as polite as others.

“Please don’t come back into our galley and do yoga!” she said. “People come back there, and they kind of invade your space. You know, if you want to walk around — and I do think you should get up and walk around — just don’t come back there and do a yoga class.”

It’s a good idea to fill your water bottle at the airport before boarding. Niles said that, while she doesn’t mind requests to fill a bottle, some flight

And while on some international flights, the alcoholic drinks are complimentary, “don’t feel like you have to drink and drink and drink, because that’s a bad combination. You know, you’re dehydrated, you’re adding alcohol, you’re at a higher altitude. We’ve had more people pass out or not feel well. We have to call the physician on duty, and we might have to land the plane,” she said.

Another annoyance is people who get on the plane and, before it takes off, they’re video calling someone and talking out loud so everyone around has to listen to the whole conversation.

“Yeah, don’t do that. Wear your earbuds; be considerate of others around you,” Niles suggested.

Niles said passengers shouldn’t make a mess and expect the flight attendants to clean it up.

“My job is primarily to be on here for your safety, and I serve you a meal and a drink.”

Don’t be like the dad who gave his kid popcorn on the plane, and then the popcorn ended up all over the seats and floor. Or the famous singer who was in first class, eating peanuts and candy, throwing the shells and wrappers all over.

“I thought … somebody has to clean that up!” Niles said.

What many passengers don’t realize is that the ground crew often has to “turn” planes really fast, which means they have to clean and restock the plane quickly so it can be boarded to go right back out.

And finally, Niles says that if you can’t lift your own bag, you should check it.

“Please don’t think we’re being rude when you say, ‘Can you lift my bag?’ and we reply, ‘No, I cannot lift your bag,’” she explained. “Ask another passenger if you need help. If I get hurt doing that, I’m off of work.”

FAVORITE DESTINATIONS

If it’s on a map, Niles has likely been there. She has traveled for work, for church and for fun. But she does have some favorite places.

“Internationally, I would say Budapest and Prague are absolutely beautiful. For European destinations, Lisbon. Of course, I always go back to my faith.

I like to go to churches. Churches are absolutely beautiful.”

She doesn’t stop there, though.

“Germany’s one of my favorite destinations — probably Munich. Went over there for all the Christmas markets — absolutely beautiful. And the castles!”

Another perfect stop is in Ireland, where, as usual, Niles finds a fun day trip to occupy her time.

“Dublin’s one of my favorite cities,” she said. “Go cliffwalking. There’s a little town called Howth, that is literally a train ride away.”

Niles also loves Nice, France, and the easy treks from there to Monaco or Cannes.

“Last year that was my favorite destination because it was the first time I’ve ever been. The hotels are so nice. They’re like, ‘Your family is our family.’ We actually were there last year when the Tour de France came through.”

When she is based out of Miami and goes to South America, Buenos Aires is also a favorite destination, as is Rio.

For domestic destinations, Niles likes southern cities like Charleston and Miami. All the better if a friend lives close by. She once had a 30-hour layover in Louisville, Kentucky, and was able to

spend the whole day with a friend who lives there.

YES, YOU CAN BRING BACK FOOD

Niles knows all the ins and outs of what you can and can’t bring back through customs, and she’s happy to share her favorites. However, always check the current guidelines at USDA and customs websites as rules can change.

She has brought back Malbec wine, European chocolate, French butter, Dutch cheese and many other treats.

“You cannot bring back any fruit. You cannot bring back any meats. But cheese, as long as it’s sealed, you can bring back as much cheese as you want,” she said.

She often brings along a little cooler to store/carry any cold purchases on the way home.

FLYING FEARS

When it comes to the typical worries passengers have about flying, Niles says to trust the pilots.

“I have a husband that’s a pilot and he has always reassured me — other pilots have always reassured me — there’ve been no plane crashes due to turbulence,” she said.

“You know what I mean? I always feel like pilots — they have a family. They’re not going to do anything unsafe.”

In fact, when she does get those precious few hours to nap on long international flights, Niles actually likes some turbulence to rock her to sleep.

Before flights, the crew gets together with the pilot for a briefing, where they find out what the weather is going to be like and if there will be turbulence at certain points. During the flight, the pilot will call back and tell the crew the level of any turbulence: mild, moderate or severe. That’s how they know when to turn on the seatbelt signs and when they shouldn’t be serving hot beverages.

Airline pilots and crews are highly trained to get you where you’re going safely, so put your worries to rest and enjoy your trip.

THE JOURNEY OF A LIFETIME

What started on a whim for Niles became a lifelong career and travel obsession for her entire family. All five of her kids have traveled extensively with her, and they all love it, too. Even after 38 years, Niles has no plans to stop.

“I can’t imagine any other job,” she said.

DR .J'S PRACTICAL TIPS FOR HEALTHY LIVING

Feed Your Gut, Boost Your Health

A S SUMMER REACHES ITS PEAK, PRIORITIZE YOUR WELLNESS WITH PRACTICAL STRATEGIES FROM DR. JAMES JIMENEZ. FROM MANAGING WEATHER-RELATED HEADACHES TO MAKING SMARTER FOOD CHOICES, THESE EVIDENCE-BASED TIPS WILL HELP YOU THRIVE DURING THE HOTTEST MONTHS OF THE YEAR.

Weather Got You Down?

Conquering Barometric Headaches

If approaching thunderstorms or sudden temperature increases leave you with a pounding head, you're not alone. Barometric pressure headaches occur when weather changes affect your nasal and sinus cavities, triggering pain signals, esp ecially in those prone to m i graines.

N atu r al relief strategies can h elp minimize wea thert r iggered pa in. Stay hydrated, as d ehy dration w orsens headache symptoms. Boost ma gnesium intake w ith dark l ea fy greens, fish, soybeans, avocado and bananas. Vitamin B2-rich foods (milk, eggs, meat, nuts) may reduce migraine frequency and duration. Creating a quiet, dark environment can also provide r elief when atmospheric pressure drops

Fermented foods offer powerful benefits far beyond digestion. These probiotic-rich options contain ben eficial bacteria that balance your gut microbiome, which scientists call your "second brain" due to its influence on mood, immunity and overall health.

Incorporate variety into your fermented food choices: Greek yogurt and kefir provide protein while controlling blood sugar. Kimchi and sauerkraut deliver fiber along with bene ficial bacteria. Miso and tempeh offer plant-based options rich in nutrients. Include at least one fermented food daily with live, active cultures. Your gut health improvements may translate to better immune function, reduced inflammation, lower blood pressure and heart disease risk, and even enhanced mental clarity.

Step Into Better Health Without Noticing

Reaching 10,000 daily steps sounds daunting, but small changes make this goal achievable. Park further away, take walking meetings or phone calls, and use the stairs instead of elevators. Even three 10-minute walks throughout your day can have significant benefits.

Walking reduces blood pressure, improves cholesterol and helps maintain a healthy weight. Your joints benefit too, as movement lubricates cartilage and increases blood flow. Set realistic goals based on your current activity leveleven 5,000 steps provides health advantages over sedentary behavior. Gradually increase your daily count as walking becomes habitual.

Smart Shopping With Scanner Apps

Transform grocery trips with food scanner apps that decode confusing labels instantly. Apps like Yuka and Open Food Facts scan barcodes to reveal detailed nutritional information and ingredient breakdowns through easy-to-understand ratings. These Al-powered tools help identify harmful additives, track allergens and suggest healthier alternatives based on your dietary preferences. Yuka provides unbiased health ratings for over five million products, while Open Food Facts offers environmental impact scores alongside nutrition data. Apps like Foodvisor even use image recognition to analyze meals from photos, calculating calories and portions automatically. While no app is perfect, they provide valuable starting points for making informed food choices and understanding what's really in your groceries.

Enjoy a Healthier Life!

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PENSACOLA, FL

2802 East Cervantes St. Pensacola, Florida 32503

DESTIN, FL

12671 Emerald Coast Pkwy Destin, FL 32550

FOLEY, AL

1502 N. McKenzie St., Ste. 112 Foley, AL 36535

Shannon Ryck’s itinerary always includes a list of what to pack along with some surprises for guests on her unique retreats.

local fare

Fearless, fabulous AND OVER 40

Shannon Ryck’s traveling sisterhood sparks connections

By Cynthia Reeves / Photo by Kate Treick Photography

Four years ago, Shannon Ryck was in one of her favorite places, Savannah, Georgia, when a comment from an older woman sparked an idea for a travel business. Shannon was at an inn with her mother discussing their plans for the day, when a woman in her early 70s leaned in and said, “I wish I had someone like you to do all the planning for me!”

Ryck knew there was a market for a niche travel group that catered exclusively to women, so Fearless, Fabulous, and Over 40, or FFover40, was born.

“We’ve raised our kids. We’ve worked our jobs. We’ve done the best we could, and it’s time to live life on our terms. We’re the fearless, fabulous sisterhood!” she explained.

Her mission is not just to expose women to travel opportunities, but to help them make connections and re-connect with themselves. Some are single women or widows; others are wives whose husbands don’t share their interests or desire to travel. Ryck keeps the travel groups small and intimate with just six to ten women.

“When you sign up for one of my retreats, I start a small private group inside Facebook. I provide packing lists, weather information, and I encourage them to post pictures or videos, so everyone gets to know each other.”

And the Facebook groups don’t just disappear.

“I never take these down, so these groups remain friends” and often continue to travel together, Ryck said.

She still hosts retreats to her beloved Savanah but also takes her ladies to Nashville, New Orleans and overseas adventures to Ireland, Scotland, the Amalfi Coast, Prague and Vienna, and more.

Her travelers appreciate that everything is set up — the food, drivers and excursions — so they don’t have to fret over details.

Tabatha Hamden from Loxley is married with five

children. The trip to Italy was a perfect personal retreat for her.

“Just as Italy whispers tales of timeless beauty, Shannon inspires women to embrace their power at any point in their story,” Hamden said.

Nina Frye has been to Italy twice with Ryck.

“The only thing I had to do was show up and choose which enticing meal I wanted,” Frye said. She added that Ryke’s ability to bring women together in adventure and fun is unique and no one in her group felt left out. Frye is already planning another trip.

Ryck’s website explains another goal is to provide ladies with “tools to help them manage their everyday lives.”

A belly dancer for 25 years, Ryck always includes belly dance classes on each excursion. It’s a way to loosen up. Let go of inhibitions. For women “to see how incredible their bodies are no matter their ago, shape or size.”

She says often the women who are the most hesitant to dance end up loving it the best. Picture being in Italy dancing on a rooftop overlooking Mt. Vesuvius.

She also offers breath work and meditation, which reduces stress and creates feelings of “love, peace, gratitude, clarity, communication and connection.”

Ryck understands some women feel intimidated traveling on their own, so she hopes to offer support and build them up.

She gives each woman pens and notebooks to journal their experience if they choose to do so. At the end of each trip, she encourages the newfound friends to write love notes to each other, but keep them closed until they return home.

Ryck has been told the travelers discover there are “six new strangers who really believe in them.”

That is her vision for FFover40: to empower women while having fun.

What to learn more? Visit FFover40.com.

Favorite Pensacola travel destinations

This month, we asked Bella readers to share their answer to this survey question: When you are planning a staycation or have out-of-town guests to entertain, what local attractions, events or venues do you enjoy? Below are some of the destinations that our readers enjoy without a road trip. Tell us your favorite hometown event, attraction or venue. Join the conversation at Facebook/pensacolabella or Instagram/pensacolabella.

— Compiled by Magi Thomley Williams, photo by Getty Images

“The Panhandle Butterfly House is a wide-open space in Milton that allows us to get up close and personal with some of nature’s most beautiful creatures. We get to learn about their critical role in nature and what we can do to help them survive by providing native plants and avoiding pesticides. They also have nature trails, so you can try to spot some pollinators on your own. I enjoy visiting alone or with friends.” — Vickie Jacob

“When my grandchildren are in town, we love to visit the Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center. The exhibits are wonderful learning tools, including a visit to Sweet Pea, the resident sea turtle. Other exhibits include jellyfish, salt marsh life, tortoises, the invasive lionfish and an artificial reef. We try to schedule our visit to enjoy one of the in-depth experiences, such as the shark school, marine mammal school, the seashells or animal care experience. The girls learn so much and leave as wonderful environmental ambassadors.»  — Charlotte Cheney

“Thirty years ago, my brother treated our mom to her very first live opera performance of Madame Butterfly at the Boston Opera House. She was hooked! Fifteen years later, my sister and I started a tradition, right here in Pensacola — taking our mom to church, lunch and the Sunday matinee at Pensacola Opera. We enjoyed nine seasons of Pensacola Opera with her, and she loved every minute of it. The last time I saw my dear sweet mom was at the 2019 production of Romeo & Juliet. She died 3 days later. Pensacola Opera connects me to my mom and always will. The tradition continues though there are some changes; now my brother joins us, we dress up on Friday evenings and celebrate our mom at Pensacola Opera! Pensacola Opera is a treasure for Pensacola residents and out-of-town guests.” — Lynn Hart

“My husband and I chose to live in Pensacola after retiring from the Navy because it’s like being on vacation every day. With so many things to do and all the history in the local area, one of our go-to local attractions is the Pensacola Lighthouse and Maritime Museum. The lighthouse has been standing for over 160 years, and the historic First Order Frensel Lens is original to the lighthouse. The lighthouse itself is open to the public and visitors can climb the 177 stairs to the top to take in a beautiful 360-degree view. A recent addition to the lighthouse and museum is a mid-19th century homestead which was discovered and recreated with the help of various grants. The Hart Homestead, named after Charles Hart, an African American enslaved laborer, serves as an archaeological park with outdoor exhibits featuring oral histories from his descendants and historical documentation. Their website offers information on special events which include watching the Blue Angels practice from the top of the lighthouse, ghost tours, sunset and moon climbs.

The National Naval Aviation Museum, one of the largest in the world, and the National Flight Academy, an immersive STEM education program, are down the road from the lighthouse and a must for locals and out-of-town visitors.”  — Commander Jody King, Nurse Corps, US Navy Retired

body & soul

Travel light, RUN FAR

The rise of marathoners and the women hitting the pavement strong

By Justine Roper | Photos by Kate Treick Photography

It is summertime, when vacations are on everyone’s mind, and many are training their bodies to look and feel their best. For a growing number of women, especially those in their 30s, 40s and 50s, physical movement has become more important than ever. From pickleball to running, it is “in” to be fit. You’ve probably seen women in these age brackets on early beach mornings or neighborhood sidewalks. Alongside them are determined runners logging miles through the summer heat, fueled by podcasts, playlists or pure perseverance.

Running has taken off across the Gulf Coast and all around the world, especially since COVID, and not just in the literal sense. There’s a noticeable shift in who is showing up to run, walk and jog as well as how they’re doing it and why. Gabriela Garza and Lari Franklin from Pensacola’s beloved Running Wild store have graced the pavement for many years and are ready to talk about marathon training, summer motivation and the beauty of starting exactly where you are.

THE WOMEN BEHIND THE MILES

Franklin, RRCA certified running coach and training program director at Running Wild Pensacola, wasn’t always a long-distance runner.

“I was a sprinter and hurdler in high school,” she shared. “I used to just watch my husband run, and eventually I said, ‘Why not me too?’”

Today, she manages multiple training programs and helps dozens of people cross finish lines they never imagined were possible in their lifetime.

Garza, her co-coach and fellow RRCA-certified race director & run coach, brings her own inspiring journey to the table.

“I stopped running for eight years,” she explained. “I had spinal issues, foot surgery, pregnancies ... but I swam, walked, stayed active and eventually found my way back.”

She shared that after returning from her rehab plan, “I ran a 10K with no pain, then a half, then a full. And I haven’t stopped since.”

These two women are examples of how life can take you through the seasons, but consistency and finding enjoyment in a sport like this will show the dedication within. This gift is for anyone who desires it.

JOIN THE RUNNING WILD

MARATHON

TRAINING PROGRAM

• Duration: 16 weeks

• Cost: $150 (does not include race fee)

What’s included:

Weekly coached training sessions

• Detailed training calendar and pace guides

• Hydration gear: branded water bottle + electrolytes

• Nutrition seminar

• Free running form evaluation

• Pelvic floor health talk (when available)

• Email support and weekly accountability

• Experienced pacers for all pace groups

When to register

Registration opens two to three weeks before the program begins. After Week 4 (12-mile long run), it’s difficult to catch up, so early registration is recommended.

Upcoming programs

Visit werunwild.com to learn more about the next training cycle or sign up for their 5K, 10K or half marathon training options.

ABOVE: Lari Franklin and Gabriela Garza are two of Running Wild’s coaches.

HEAT, HUMIDITY & THE MARATHON MINDSET

Summer training isn’t for the faint of heart, especially here in Florida. From high temperatures to busy schedules, for many runners, walkers and joggers, there is a constant tug-of-war between training and giving in to the temptations of comfort. But both Franklin and Garza agree that having the option of group training holds you accountable and creates a sense of ease with the structured workouts that are offered in their programs.

“There’s something about the group training dynamic,” Franklin said. “Even if it’s hot and miserable, you’re not alone. We’re out there together.”

Garza added, “People want that sense of progression. A lot of our runners start with 5Ks and work their way up. But they keep coming back because they’re chasing more than a medal. They’re chasing growth.”

When asked why so many people, particularly women, are drawn to the marathon, their answers reflected a form of reverence for the marathon distance. It appears to be about something deeper than fitness.

“It’s mental,” Garza said. “You think you’re prepared, but marathons will still humble you. And that’s why we love them: It’s like life.”

MYTH-BUSTER: WHO GETS TO CALL THEMSELVES A RUNNER?

One of the most persistent misconceptions in running? That you have to look a certain way to be a marathoner.

“I want people to know that we have runners in their 70s,” Garza enthusiastically shared. “In the Running Wild programs,

there are curvy runners, tall runners, petite runners and even people who started walking a year ago. You do not have to be fast. You do not have to be thin. If you cover the distance, you’re a marathoner.”

Franklin agreed.

“Everyone’s afraid they’ll be the slowest. They never are. Every week, it changes. Someone will always be there to run with you.”

Whether you are a teacher, returning from maternity leave, in menopause, a busy lawyer or a former athlete recovering from life’s ups and downs, running can be for you if you desire it. Breaks are valid and often necessary. Rest is vital. There is space for having balance, and running can be included. That is often the benefit of group runs. You have a coach who programs safe and progressive workouts, community and accountability. All of which are there to help you succeed, no matter where you are in life.

SUMMER EXERCISE MUST-HAVES

Here are some packing recommendations for your next training adventure.

• Electrolytes and a refillable water bottle: Dehydration hits harder in heat. Don’t wait until mile three or more to hydrate. Hydrate from start to finish.

• A foam roller or massage ball: These are a lifesaver for stiff calves and tight hips after long runs or plane rides.

• A cooling towel: Easy to wet, wring and wear around the neck or shoulders.

• Your run, walk or jog, plan & backup plan: Print it. Stick to it. Adjust when needed, but having a visual reminder keeps you honest. Make sure to make adjustments based on the weather.

It is ok to take a shorter route or walk indoors on the treadmill.

• Supportive footwear: Always travel with your running shoes in your carry-on. Lost luggage shouldn’t derail your training.

THE BUILDING BLOCKS OF RESILIENCE, ONE MILE AT A TIME

Franklin and Garza emphasize that the “mental miles” are just as important as the physical ones.

“We build that toughness together,” Franklin said. “You miss a week? Someone’s checking on you. You have a bad run? We talk about it. You think you can’t do it? We show you that you can.”

For Garza, it’s a personal passion.

“I’ve run races completely solo. But coaching is about making sure others don’t feel alone. We’re building a community where success looks different for everyone, and every finish line counts,” she said.

FINAL ENCOURAGEMENT: “JUST SHOW UP”

The most powerful, yet practical, advice both coaches offered? “Just show up.”

Running Wild’s programs are designed to be approachable, informative and community-driven. Whether you are new and nervous or a returning runner, the support system is built in. And if marathon training isn’t your thing? That’s okay too. There are other distance options, or you can use the program to build general strength and technique.

Whether you’re running on vacation, jogging around the block or walking your way through hard seasons, every step counts.

worth the trip

ABOVE: The restaurant, perched at the top of the cable car route, has a spectacular view. FAR RIGHT: Split was a charming city to explore. RIGHT: Joel and I enjoyed the beautiful scenery.

From Croatia, WITH LOVE

We expected to fall in love with Rome and the Amalfi Coast — but it was the charm, music and beauty of Croatia that captured our hearts.

Story and photos by Kate Treick

Last October, my husband Joel and I took a glorious cruise through the Mediterranean. We started our adventure in Rome and stopped in many noteworthy Italian ports. But what I didn’t fully expect when we started out was that our final stops in Dubrovnik and Split, Croatia, would be among our very favorite places of the trip.

Our first port of call in Croatia was the city of Dubrovnik. What a beautiful place! After a cappuccino overlooking the water, we walked through the streets of the Old City. We visited a church and a cathedral, I bought a couple of textiles (handmade lace and some embroidery), and we walked up and down about 35 million steps. Around noon, we took a cable car to the top of the mountain and enjoyed a fabulous lunch at Panorama Restaurant and Bar. As I sat enjoying my Aperol spritz while we soaked in the spectacular view, I marveled at the beauty all around me. I loved it all, from the ancient architecture to the rugged mountains and deep blue sea.

Our next stop was Split, which features Diocletian’s palace and lots of shops tucked in among the stone buildings of the old city. As we explored the narrow streets, we heard the resonant tones of a men’s quartet singing in tight harmony. And when we entered the Vestibule of the palace, there they were! The acoustics in the vestibule ensured that each note was perfectly amplified, and we were all transfixed by the men and their song. This type of singing is called “Klaptha,” a word which is translated “group of friends.”

The men demonstrated that unique bond as they sang, painting portraits of life in Dalmatia, of love and friendship. We might not have understood the words, but there was no doubt as to the meaning. The sound of their voices was the perfect backdrop as we continued to discover the charm that Split had to offer.

The next day, we were off to Montenegro — a story for another time! But as our ship drifted away from the coast, we determined that we would be back. We can’t wait to return to Croatia to enjoy its amazing sights, delicious food and friendly locals. If you get the chance to visit, you’ll love it!

AT LEFT, CLOCKWISE: Exploring Dubrovnik and enjoying the acoustics in the Vestibule of the Palace of Diocletian — which were perfect for enjoying traditional music by Dalmatian singers. Sailing away from Split. ABOVE TOP: Good morning, Split! ABOVE: Enjoying a cappuccino and croissant overlooking the sea.

worth the trip

Vogel State Park A union of nature, history and philanthropy

Story and photos by Alice Crann Good

When traveling, it can be fun when happenstance enters the scene and takes you in a delightful, unexpected direction. That’s what unfolded as my husband, Thomas, and I delved into our home-style biscuits, sausage and eggs at the Hole in the Wall in Blairsville, Georgia — a local breakfast hotspot in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Sitting at a table across from our booth, loud banter from a group of gruff elderly men caused us to try oh-so-hard to not listen in, but it was impossible. Then when one of the men asked us point blank where we were from and where we were headed on this March Monday morning, I smiled and shared how we were staying in a nearby cabin for a few days, and we didn’t know what we were going to do on this rainy, cloudy day.

“Well, you need to go to Vogel State Park,” said the lanky man with piercing gray eyes. “It’s beautiful and close by.”

All of his pals nodded in agreement, as did the waitress filling our mugs of coffee.

Long comical story short, that was that.

Burrowed at the base of Blood Mountain within the Blue Ridge Mountains, the beloved 233-acre Vogel State Park sits in the heart of the Chattahoochee National Forest at an elevation of 2,280 feet. It’s only about 11 miles south of Blairsville on US Highway 19, even though the winding mountain roads made it seem much longer.

But as one of our new grumpy old friends said, “If you don’t like winding roads, go back to Florida.”

After finally adapting to the roads’ hairpin rhythm, we entered Vogel State Park. Greeted by Trahlyta Lake, a 22-acre reservoir built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps and named after Indian Princess Trahlyta, our day of nature and history

Much of the land that makes up Vogel State Park was donated to the state of Georgia in 1927 by August H. Vogel and Fred Vogel Jr. of Milwaukee, Wisconsin — heirs of the Pfister & Vogel Leather Co., a tannery. The Vogel family harvested bark from oak and hemlock trees on thousands of acres they owned in north Georgia.

lessons began.

Operational since 1931 and steeped in history, Vogel and Indian Springs are Georgia’s oldest state parks.

Vogel guests can visit the John B. Derden Civilian Conservation Corps Museum housed in a rustic cabin on the east shore of Lake Trahlyta, explore about 20 miles of hiking trails for all levels of hikers, enjoy swimming and boating on the lake, check out the streams and waterfall, or simply soak in mountain scenery and breathe in refreshing air.

For those who want to stick around, the park offers a wide range of camping and cabin options for every budget, ranging from a pioneer campground to charming cottages. There are also boat and bike rentals, mini golf and a beach area for summertime recreation.

During our visit, we stopped at the Visitors Center for some t-shirt shopping; I chose a design featuring Sasquatch, also known as Bigfoot. Sightings and stories of the hairy creature are as plentiful as north Georgia’s winding roads.

We then headed to the CCC museum, the site my history-buff husband loved

the most. I, too, greatly enjoyed this trek through oft-forgotten history.

Built in 2004 by dedicated volunteers, park staff, private and corporate donors, the museum is a must-visit. You learn all about President Franklin Roosevelt’s promise of a New Deal and his CCC pet project, one of his inspiring solutions to the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl.

The CCC relief program was created by the Emergency Conservation Work Act to help young, unemployed and unmarried men find work. During its 9-year run, the program provided about 3 million men with shelter, food, clothing and a regular salary.

Did you know that these CCC men, who ranged in age from 17 to 28 and hailed from cities and farms across the U.S.A., built 800 state parks (including Vogel), 63,246 buildings, 7,622 dams, 46,854 bridges, restored 3,980 historical structures, and erected, developed and improved so much more?

Enjoy Vogel State Park and all its offerings, and remember that young men were paid $30 a month, of which $25 was sent home to help their families, to build the park and hundreds more like it.

• Where: 405 Vogel State Park Road, Blairsville, GA 30512

• Hours: 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily

• Cost: $5 parking fee for daily entry; $50 for an annual park pass

• Reservations: 800-864-7275; reserveamerica.com/explore/vogel-state-park/ GA/GM

• Info: 706-745-2628; gastateparks.org/vogel

VOGEL STATE PARK

worth the trip

Adventuring in

Story and photos by Liz Biggs

One of the most picturesque and popular Greek Islands, Santorini was a dream vacay for me and my family. As you can see from the photos, it did not disappoint. But truth be told, it has become a top tourist attraction, especially for cruise ships, so timing and research is recommended if you plan to travel there.

We planned our weeklong stay in the village of Oia in early May to beat the peak summer season crowds. My genius sister had an app that showed cruise ship arrivals and departures, so we hung out at our lovely rental house while the cruise ship stampedes swarmed the quaint, narrow paths and iconic viewpoints. If the weather was perfect, wedding photo shoots were everywhere, so we stayed home and drank crisp local Greek wine and waited for the clouds and rain to come, then we could venture out and have the vistas to ourselves.

The beautiful village of Oia (pronounced “EE-ah), is known for its whitewashed houses, blue domes, cliffside cocktail bars and stunning sunsets. But as Forest Gump almost said, sunsets are like a box of chocolates — you never know what you’re going to get. If your travel goals include the famous Santorini sunsets, plan your trip in the summer. If you go in the spring, you may get the dreaded orange cream-filled chocolate or a rainy and windy week. We did get one spectacular sunset, and it was magical, like the Messenger Boy in the Whitman’s Sampler box.

Did you know that the island of Santorini used to be shaped like a teardrop, and now it is shaped like a crescent? I didn’t, but thanks to every driver and guide we had for a week, I will never forget it. One of the largest volcanic events in human history, the Minoan eruption, occurred around 1600 BC and devastated the island. Word on the street is that the underwater city of Atlantis may be down in that deep crater. That’s what the guy at the Atlantis hotel told me when I stopped to chat and ask for directions, so it must be true. If you dream of tsunamis, like I do, another fascinating fact is that volcano eruption was so ginormous that it caused the tsunami that destroyed the ancient palace of Knossos in Crete, as well as flooded the shores of Egypt. I wish the palace of Knossos were still standing because we saw a scale model of it at a museum in Crete,

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: The beautiful cliffside village of Oia, Santorini; an iconic blue-domed church in Oia; a stunning view from the caldera hike; the path from Fira to Oia.

Santorini

and that labyrinth looked super cool.

If you are wondering why all the Greek-island towns like Oia are white, our guide told us there are not one but two reasons: White reflects the powerful heat of the sun, but also the lime that makes the whitewash is a good antiseptic — villagers knew it would naturally disinfect the rainwater that was collected on rooftops. But don’t be foolish enough to think that is still true today. The tap water is not safe to drink in Oia; we were instructed not to even brush our teeth with it. Lucky for us, our rental host provided us with plenty of bottled water.

In addition to the scenic Santorini sunsets, the panoramic hike along the volcanic caldera rim from Fira to Oia is a must-do. It was an eight-mile hike for us and took about five hours. AI says, “While considered easy to moderate, some sections involve steep climbs and uneven terrain.” Friends told me it was easy and beautiful. It was beautiful, but don’t ever trust your fit friends or AI. For if you hike it after a recent earthquake, the trails may be a bit rocky and slippery, and the rails may have blown down the cliff. Also, in early May, the wind gusts can get up to 40 mph up on those cliffs, and you might feel like you have sandpaper in your eyeballs. But mostly, I am here to warn you about the vicious wild dog that will attack you along the way.

When hiking, I am always bringing up the rear because I take pictures and get distracted easily. So I was way behind when I heard my sister shout, “Mean dog ahead, grab a rock!” I looked around for a rock but no rock looked like the right kind of rock to defend myself against a mean dog. Then I talked myself out of searching for the perfect rock because my finger was broken, so I would have to throw the rock with my left hand, and I can’t even brush my teeth with my left hand. I’d probably miss, making the dog even madder, so I decided to run. The dog lunged at me, so I yelped and ran faster, and thank my lucky stars, the hikers in front of us threw an open bag of potato chips at him, and he gobbled them instead of me. After we got a safe distance away, we looked back to see him terrorizing another hiker who sprinted all the way down the cliff to the road to get away. My sister informed me that the worst thing you can do is run when faced with a mean dog. Next time (if there is a next time), I will not overthink the rock choice. In spite of the mad dog, the hike and views are worth it — just bring a snack to throw at the mangy dog.

Santorini looks tiny on a map, but the distance from Oia to Akrotiri is 37 miles, a 45-minute drive. Well worth the trip, in my opinion, to see the incredible Red Beach, Black Beach and Santorini’s version of Pompeii — an ancient city buried (and preserved) in ash following the Minoan eruption. Visitors explore the excavation site on ramps that let you climb around and through the streets of the prehistoric city.

If you like wine, thanks to the mountain soil and climate, Santorini is a great place to plan a vineyard tour and wine tasting. We chose the Sigalas vineyard, and the food and wine were fantastic. We found the house/table wine at all the local restaurants to be very good and reasonably priced.

Whether you just want to relax, drink wine and watch the sunset or set off on a wild dog adventure, Santorini is a trip to add to your bucket list. For the best experience, do your research and plan to stay a while to fully experience it.

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: A classic Santorini sunset; iconic domed architecture in Fira; Greek salad in Greece; the crescent-shaped Santorini caldera.

out&about

Pretty Kicks Sneaker Ball

The third annual Pretty Kicks Sneaker Ball on May 31 presented by the Rosa Verde Foundation was an unforgettable fundraiser in support of high school seniors pursuing higher education. Guests came to the Brownsville Community Center in their best formal attire paired with their coolest sneakers to raise funds for scholarships for local students. There were fun games, a sizzling sneaker contest and amazing prizes.

by Toni Sparks / Short Story Studios

Photos

Lady Carol Heard, Laurent Heard, Tanesha Philpot, Bounder Broner, Sherita Stanley, Michelle Tibbs, Mattie Philpot

Tara Hardy, Cindy Reeves, Gail Hill, Julie Duvall

Erica George, Tamesa Brewton, Carlyn James, Shemika Barnes

Kelly Gontarski, Shannon Addison

Brenda Dean, Jennifer Ranaldson, Patricia Nickson

Lesley Sasser, Clara Oates, Lynn Wilson

Lois Lane, Mamie Hixon, Grace Marshall, Sandra Winborne

Kanisha White, Cassandra Smith, Jobenna Sellers, Lisa Harper

Robert Walker, AJ Lawrence

Dannon Byrd, Brigette Brooks

Lloyd Reshard, Joy Powell, Robin Reshard

Carisa Davis, Krystal Elzy

Nicole Randolph, Keshia Steele

Alex McCrory, Stephen McCrory, Rachel Knox, Allison McCrory

out&about

FavorHouse Round-Up

This year’s FavorHouse Round-Up was held on Friday, June 13, at the Escambia County Equestrian Center. There was live music, dancing, walkabout food tasting, fun and games, and all proceeds directly support programs and services to help local victims of domestic violence and their children escape abuse and build a new beginning. This year’s RoundUp helped FavorHouse surpass their fundraising goal of $50,000.

Photos by Toni Sparks / Short Story Studios

Jessica Duncan, Tammy Lynn Barr, Stacie Hammer, Elizabeth Baer, Michelle Spencer, Tracy Morgan-Frick, Delayna Blankenship

Nora Dollen, Charmain Sutherland, Donna Dollen

Lori Milkeris, Selisa Daniel, Elizabeth Anderson, Jodi Taylor, Scarlett Tullos

Brandon Jones, Amber Jones

Dora Omerico, Francesca Lupo

Alisen Spear, Stephanie Shepard, Sarah Skipper-Hall

Tara Jane Davison, Delayna Blankenship, Julie Duvall

Angie Metzger, Tara Painter

Renee Walther, Lisa Weston

Dora Omerico, Mark Benhard

Kim Feltman, LaKesha Burton

Dena Oldfield, Debbie Gerheauser

By Sharla Gorder

How I met your father her perspective

It’s so hard to get grown-ups to behave. Fortunately, at this point in my life, it’s not in my job description. But once upon a time, it was.

I had help, of course — 14 or so other flight attendants and three pilots. Still, we were woefully outnumbered, and trapped as we were in a steel tube hurtling through space, we couldn’t call for reinforcements.

For the most part, back then (the ’80s), folks behaved pretty well on airplanes (unlike today!). But there were times when I really felt like the traveling public could use a little guidance, a user manual of sorts, a tutorial to help them learn to “passenger” appropriately.

To be honest, there was really just one passenger in all those years of flying for Pan Am and United, that I passionately felt needed coaching. Yes, I needed him to behave on the plane, but more importantly, I needed him to fall in love with me.

Ted and I met 36 years ago on flight 815 from Los Angeles to Sydney. I joke that our first date was 15 hours long and we had 400 chaperones. I had never, in my life, flirted for so long without a drink in my hand. But it’s not what happened aloft that cinched the deal. It’s what happened the next day. When we landed, Ted continued on his connecting flight to Melbourne, and I headed to my layover hotel in Sydney. I couldn’t stop thinking about him, and I wanted to make sure he was thinking about me.

obsequiously defer to our omnipotence aboard the aircraft. Don’t let the sensible shoes and aprons fool you into imagining that we are here to serve you. Our primary goal is to invoke compliance.

• On jump seats: Do not, under any circumstance occupy a flight attendant jump seat. This is the ultimate transgression. Our jump seats are our thrones, and it is advisable not to even gaze upon them. Avert thine eyes.

• On galleys: Likewise, galleys are hallowed ground, to be inhabited solely by FAs and an occasional invited guest, usually the object of a FA flirtation. (How to know if you are being flirted with: The FA speaks to you in complete sentences and puts back on her pumps.)

• On ordering a cocktail: When a FA solicits your drink order and you are merrily plugged into the audio system, do not remove your glasses in order to better hear the FA’s query, as this has never been shown to improve your auditory capacity. Along the same lines, abruptly shouting your request (to be heard over the symphony only you are privy to) is quite unnecessary and may indeed awaken the pilots.

• On seconds: When asked if you would like another cup of coffee, it is not polite to wordlessly point to the inside of your cup. We are trained professionals and will not under any circumstances pour it on your salad.

• On using the FA call button: Don’t.

The thing that had charmed me so much about Ted was (and still is) his propensity to laugh and to make me laugh. So, I decided to attempt to amuse him from afar.

I would send him a fax — yes, a fax (email wasn’t yet a thing). For two days, holed up in my Sydney hotel room, I devised a “document” and formatted it to look like an official airline communiqué, entitled “UAL Passenger Rules and Regulations, Series 1.” I faxed it to his office in Melbourne.

The 17-point “document” offered invaluable information on how to comport oneself in business class on those long trans-Pacific flights, with tips on all things flight-related. Here are a few highlights:

• On your flight attendant crew: Recognize and

• On sleeping with your mouth open and body strangely contorted: This is acceptable in that it provides a little late-night entertainment for the crew. Loud, unmetered snoring and indiscriminate drooling, however, are strictly prohibited.

• On profane complaining and whining: Pretend you cannot hear us in the galley.

• On preparing for landing: When the pilot announces that we are making our final approach for landing, do not anxiously inquire into the status of implied previous approaches. Airline terminology can be confusing.

Suffice it to say, I made him laugh. 36 years later, he’s still laughing.

(And behaving beautifully, I might add.)

Talk About It Tuesday on

Sonshine’s Corner

Bella Magazine is teaming up with Sonshine’s Corner to bring you the most inspirational show on the Gulf Coast — and you’re invited!

Join us live at 9 a.m. on the first Tuesday of every month on WPAN-TV / BLAB-TV for Talk About It Tuesday — a powerful, uplifting hour featuring Bella’s finest: beautiful women, bold voices, smart conversations, and stories that empower, inspire, and uplift.

From Escambia to Santa Rosa, we’re changing the conversation and celebrating the confidence, culture, and community that make us shine. So grab your coffee, tell a friend, and tune in.

Sonshine’s Corner + Bella Magazine — where sass meets substance.

Let’s talk about it.

The place to be inspired,informed & uplifted

By Liz Biggs

Death and taxes — but mostly death her perspective

“In this world, nothing can be certain but death and taxes,” said Benjamin Franklin in 1789. He totally deserves his place on the $100 bill, not only for this wise statement, but also for his inventions — the lightning rod, stove, bifocal glasses and urinary catheter (fun stuff, Ben). Don’t worry, I won’t be writing about taxes. After doing taxes for years, I can attest that taxes are boring. I’m going to attempt to write about death. I am deathly afraid of death, and fear is never boring, so prepare to be sad but not bored.

Death is not something I’ve thought much about in my life. But lately, I’ve been thinking about it a lot. Recently, my friend’s husband passed away — unexpectedly and suddenly. One day, I was hanging out with them at the Wisteria, and then poof, he was gone. And a dear friend’s son passed away soon after that. All this death has me realizing that it is not my death that scares me to death; it is the unbearable grief of losing a loved one that frightens me. I can’t imagine the pain and sorrow of losing a spouse or a child. I try so hard not to think about it, but when I go to a funeral, it hits me like a brick. It’s paralyzing.

diving and high altitudes. But, like a toddler, all I wanted to do was what he told me I couldn’t do. So I got scuba certified and dove 100 feet down in Key West. Sharks and barracudas had me scurrying up the rope a little faster than I should have, but I only had a mild case of the bends and survived. Got pretty sick, though.

And then there was that bike crash into a car on the way home from a Monopoly party at a friend’s house — instead of collecting $200, we did a shot every time we passed Go. I lived to tell, but my body was pretty mangled. They used liquid cocaine in the ER to clean the pavement from the gashes on my legs, at least that’s what I think I remember. I hit my head too, so who knows?

I suppose all we mere mortals can do is try to live a full life. Fill our buckets before we kick the bucket (forgive me, I’m trying to lighten this heavy subject). Dance and play tennis until our bones break and our muscles tear. Travel to all the places we’ve dreamed about. Waste a day traveling to Ogden, Utah, for a concert to see our favorite band, not caring if we are the only people there without tattoos.

All this death has me wanting to call all my loved ones and say I love you. And text my friends just for the heck of it. And be more kind to people I don’t love, but kind of like, because what if they are visited by the grim reaper next?

It also has me reflecting on my life a little bit. I was reckless in my teens and twenties. If I was a cat, I would have used up about 7 of my 9 lives already. After my lung surgery at 19, the pulmonologist told me to avoid scuba

Growing up in Florida, I waterskied but never snow skied. So, at 20, on my first snow skiing trip to Aspen, I signed up for ski school. Feeling invincible, on day two, I tried a black diamond slope. Oh, was I vincible! Skied right off the side of that mountain and barely missed a tree. Buried in the powdery snow for a few hours, finally someone heard me screaming and sent the ski patrol. On my next ski trip, we went to Big Sky in Montana and faced a whiteout. Skiing blind down a slope is the most frightening thing I’ve ever done. Well, besides having a baby “natural,” with no drugs. That was terrifying.

Thank goodness my frontal lobe finally developed, and my fearlessness subsided. Although I attempted hiking at 14,000 feet in Bolivia a few years ago and suffered severe altitude sickness, so maybe I’ll never learn to be cautious — for you can’t live your life trying not to die, right? Or can you? These days, I do everything I can to stay healthy, but I’m still trying to fill my bucket.

My bucket is full of travels and adventures, so in light of recent deaths, I now want to fill it with quality time with my loved ones. And fun conversations with friends. Maybe that frontal cortex has finally matured after all; it just took a while.