Our Town January/February 2026 (Gainesville)

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Ronald Emerick, D.O.

Sarah Garrett, ARNP

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IN THIS ISSUE

>> AS WE STEP INTO A NEW YEAR, THIS ISSUE INVITES YOU TO SLOW DOWN AND BEGIN AGAIN WITH PURPOSE. INSIDE, DISCOVER STORIES ON WELLNESS AND STRESS MANAGEMENT, INTENTIONAL ROUTINES, CREATIVITY AND CULTURE, TRAVEL AND PERSONAL GROWTH, PARENTING WITH CONSISTENCY, AND COMMUNITY TRADITIONS— EACH OFFERING INSPIRATION TO TURN THE PAGE ON 2026 WITH CLARITY, CONNECTION, AND HOPE. HAPPY NEW YEAR!

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TEACHER’S TOOLBOX

A reassuring look at parenting in January, encouraging consistency over perfection and trusting the routines that already support your family.

TOOLS FOR ANXIETY

A psychologist’s practical guide to understanding stress, managing expectations, and using grounding tools to navigate anxiety with greater calm.

LEARNING TO LEAP

A personal travel memoir about choosing discomfort, embracing fear, and discovering growth through a yearlong journey across Southeast Asia.

CONTENTS

15 // GAINESVILLE TO MILAN

From Milan’s Olympic stage to Gainesville’s past, local stories reveal unexpected cultural connections across art, history, and global events.

20 // SEE IT TO BELIEVE IT

A thoughtful guide to creating vision boards that clarify purpose, inspire growth, and harness visualization to support meaningful personal goals.

27 // CUPID’S BOW

A playful guide to celebrating Valentine’s Day your way, with creative, budget-friendly ideas for singles, couples, stay-ins, and longdistance love.

34 // SEASONAL BITES

Enjoy some fun bite-sized facts about this time of year.

42 // TREAT YOURSELF

A feel-good guide to self-love, highlighting how giving back, meditation, and travel can boost happiness and well-being.

49 // TURNING THE PAGE

The Sunshine State Book Festival brings authors and readers together to celebrate literature, creativity, and Gainesville’s growing cultural scene.

55 // HOGGETOWNE GOES DOWNTOWN

Hoggetowne goes downtown for a free, two-day medieval celebration, bringing timeless revelry, artisans, and adventure to Depot Park.

62 // A MORNING RESET

A fresh guide to building mindful morning rituals, helping you reset habits, prioritize self-care, and start 2026 feeling grounded.

83 // WHEN STRESS SPEAKS

An expert look at how everyday stress affects health and relationships, with practical strategies for resilience and daily well-being.

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PUBLISHER

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PRODUCTION DIRECTORS

Kaloni Dunlap, Brian Knepp, Sandra Schultz

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Ericka Winter Pauley editor@towerpublications.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Donna Bonnell, Dana Bryan, Cameron Cobb, Summer Jarro, Cecilia Lemus, Dr. Kaytie Miliken, Terri Schlichenmeyer, Crystal Smith, Delaney Starling Steph Strickland, Joanna Grey Talbot, Cynthia Wonders-Winterrowd

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

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Terra LaFleur terra@towerpublications.com

CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS

If you would like us to publicize an event in the greater Gainesville area, send information by the 1st day of the month prior to the next issue. For example, submissions for the JULY/AUGUST issue are due by June 1. All submissions will be reviewed and every effort will be made to run qualified submissions if page space is available.

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EDITOR’S LETTER

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

Turning the Page

There is something quietly powerful about turning the page of a new year.

January doesn’t arrive with all the answers—it arrives with possibility. A clean margin. A pause between chapters that invites reflection, intention, and a gentle recalibration of how we want to live, love, and show up in the world.

As we step into 2026, this issue is rooted in that spirit: not perfection, but presence; not pressure, but purpose; not rushing forward, but beginning again with hope and vitality.

This season reminds us that new beginnings come in many forms. Sometimes they are bold—like traveling across the world with nothing but a backpack and courage, or hosting a global event that unites cultures, history, and humanity. Other times, they are quieter—found in morning rituals, consistent family routines, or learning to sit with stress rather than run from it. Each story in this issue reflects a shared truth: growth doesn’t require a dramatic overhaul. It asks for intention, curiosity, and grace.

We explore how creativity and community continue to shape who we are—from celebrating literature and local voices, to medieval revelry downtown, to the arts and global connections that reach all the way from Gainesville to Milan. We view wellness not as a trend but as a lifestyle—one built through small, meaningful choices that support mental health, resilience, and self-compassion. We’re reminded that love takes many forms: romantic, platonic, familial, and self-directed—and all of them deserve care and celebration.

Over the holidays, a sense of community celebration came to life in the most joyful way. For the second year in a row, my little family was honored to take part in our own town’s Christmas parade—rolling through downtown in our “Nutcracker MOKE” in support of The Little Smiles Florida Holiday Toy Drive. Phoebe took her role as the Sugar Plum Fairy very seriously, waving enthusiastically to paradegoers and soaking in every moment. It was one of those small-but-significant experiences that remind you how powerful shared traditions can be, especially when they bring joy to others.

At home, I’m feeling this passage of time in the most personal way. On January 2, our daughter Phoebe turns two. Two. It feels impossible and inevitable all at once. Watching her grow has reshaped how I think about beginnings. Children don’t rush forward to the finish line—they grow steadily, at times predictably, and—most of all—beautifully through repetition, connection, and trust. There’s wisdom in that.

Perhaps the best way to begin 2026 is not by demanding more of ourselves, but by honoring what’s already working and allowing space for what wants to unfold next.

This issue is an invitation to slow down, look inward, reach outward, and move forward with intention. Whether you’re building new habits, managing stress, nurturing creativity, or simply trying to keep your footing in a busy world, know this: you don’t have to have it all figured out to begin again.

Here’s to turning the page with hope.

Here’s to beginnings—both big and beautifully small.

Ericka Winter Pauley, Editor-In-Chief

CONTRIBUTORS

DONNA BONNELL

became the author of her column, Embracing Life, more than 20 years ago. She shares her personal challenges and victories with the goal of inspiring her readers to analyze why things happen in their own lives. bonneldj@gmail.com

CAMERON COBB

is a UF graduate with a master’s degree in Mass Communication. She’s also an Air Force veteran. Cameron loves traveling, writing and all animals (her favorite being her rescue dog, Maggie). cameronacobb5@gmail.com

CECILIA LEMUS

is a Florida born and raised freelance writer and photographer. In her spare time she enjoys traveling through the Florida coastlines and finding off the beaten paths. cecilia.lemuss@gmail.com

CRYSTAL SMITH

is a freelance writer and columnist born and raised in West Texas. She received her B.S. in Journalism in 2006 from the University of Florida. She is in love with the Florida landscape. ces03k@gmail.com

STEPH STRICKLAND

is a Florida native, UF alum from the College of Journalism, and Boston University alum from the College of Communications. She has found her passion in telling stories through writing, photography, and data. You can also find Steph hiking, kayaking, or doing yoga. stephanieannestrickland@gmail.com

DANA BRYAN

is a journalism graduate from the University of Florida and a freelance writer. In her free time, she loves to read, write amateur code and watch television.

itsdanabryan@gmail.com

SUMMER JARRO

is a University of Florida graduate. Along with writing, she loves Disney, watching old films, going to the beach and traveling to new places.

summerjarro@gmail.com

DR. KAYTIE MILLIKEN

is a dedicated education consultant empowering parents and teachers with practical, research-based strategies and resources. Born and raised in Alachua County, she is a proud UF graduate. kaytlynn.milliken@gmail.com

DELANEY STARLING

is a freelance writer and a senior journalism major at the University of Florida. When she’s not writing, you can find Delaney pursuing her passion for music, traveling and extreme outdoor activities. delaney.starling@ufl.edu

JOANNA GREY TALBOT

is the marketing director for the Matheson History Museum and the author of the blog “Florida Revealed: Dispatches from the Land of Publix, Citrus, and Alligators.” joannagtalbot@gmail.com

A WORLD AWAY AND RIGHT AT HOME

Gainesville to Milan

WRITTEN BY JOANNA GREY TALBOT

THE 25TH WINTER OLYMPIC GAMES ARE UNIQUE BECAUSE THE CITIES OF MILAN AND CORTINA D’AMPEZZO, ITALY, WILL CO-HOST THEM.

Cortina d’Ampezzo also hosted the 1956 Winter Olympics. On February 6, 2026, Milan will host the opening ceremony. Both cities will host an Olympic cauldron.

Competitions will take place in eight different cities throughout northeast Italy. Verona will host the closing ceremony of the Olympic Games and the opening ceremony of the Paralympic Games.

It may be hard to imagine that Alachua County has any connections to Milan, but you would be mistaken. Milan has impacted people around the world through its artists, composers, fashion designers, and world changers. Globalization was accelerated by the Industrial Revolutions of the 18th and 19th centuries, and as a result, Alachua County residents are more connected to the world than ever.

Alberta Murphree - Soprano, Voice Teacher, and Music Director

Alberta Murphree was born in Tallahassee in 1898. Her father, A.A. Murphree, was the third president of Florida State College (now FSU) from 1897-1909 and the second president of the University of Florida from 1909-1927.

Alberta graduated from the Gainesville Graded and High School in 1916. She quickly became known for the “wonderful richness of the quality of her voice” (Gainesville Sun 2/13/1921). The summer after she graduated, she studied with Polish opera singer Stanislau Berini and his wife, Louise, even traveling to Canada with them and other students to perform and train. The Berinis met President Murphree in Nova Scotia the summer of 1911. He found out they were looking for somewhere warm to spend the winter, and he invited them to visit Gainesville. They began visiting Gainesville annually in 1912 and continued until they moved to Phoenix, Arizona, in 1928.

In the fall of 1916, Alberta began attending the Florida State College for Women (now FSU) but stayed only a year. In 1917, she decided to continue her studies and voice training in Baltimore. She attended Goucher College and the Peabody Institute, graduating in 1924.

In 1925, she met and married David Worth, a realtor from West Palm Beach. They made their home there, but Alberta regularly visited Gainesville. Alberta also began teaching voice students at her home, and for multiple summers, she was the director of the University of Florida’s summer regular school’s music department. With her love of opera and theater, she staged a show at the end of each summer with her students. One year, she directed The Mikado, and another, The Pirates of Penzance.

In 1932, she divorced Worth and set sail for Europe. That spring, she traveled on the Ile de France and moved to Paris for five months. She studied at the Paris Conservatory and traveled to Berlin, Milan, and Vienna to attend operas. Alberta returned to Gainesville that fall and continued teaching.

In 1935, Alberta married Guy Hamilton of West Palm Beach, the music minister of the First Methodist Church. The couple moved to Gainesville in 1936 when Guy was hired as the choir director at First Baptist. Alberta, of course, joined the choir and continued her work as a teacher, including as the director of music at her alma mater, Gainesville High School, in the 1940s.

Alberta and Guy eventually left Gainesville and moved to Marianna. Guy died in 1971, and Alberta in 1985. They are buried with Alberta’s family in the Saint John’s Episcopal Church Cemetery in Tallahassee.

John Fletcher Huddleston - Naval Officer and Diplomat

John Fletcher Huddleston was born in Forsyth, Georgia, in 1892. His family moved to Geneva, Florida, when he was young, and he graduated from the University of Florida. One of his older sisters, Mary, married E. G. Baxter, and they lived in Gainesville from 1911 until their deaths, so John regularly visited Gainesville.

John attended the Naval Academy at Annapolis, Maryland, and received his naval commission in 1915. He was posted to Constantinople (now Istanbul), Turkey, as the assistant paymaster on the USS Scorpion. The following year, the US severed diplomatic ties with Turkey due to World War I. As a result, Turkey seized all of the United States’s boats and their crews in Constantinople harbor. The men, including John, were interned as POWs for the duration of the war.

In 1919, John married Mabel Balcom of Cleveland, Ohio. She had also served overseas during the war on the Tuberculosis Commission for Italy under the Red Cross. In 1920, John resigned his naval commission and pursued a career in the diplomatic corps.

In 1923, under President Calvin Coolidge, John began his foreign service career as a US Vice Consul in Milan. He, Mabel, and their daughter, Mary, moved to Milan. Over the next thirty years they would serve in multiple places around the world - including Funchal, Portugal; Dresden, Germany; Curaçao; and Liverpool, England - and have two more children.

John retired in 1952 and he and Mabel moved to Winter Park, Florida. He died in 1966, and Mabel died in 1980. They are buried together in the Palm Cemetery in Winter Park.

It may be hard to imagine that Alachua County has any connections to Milan, but you would be mistaken. Milan has impacted people around the world through its artists, composers, fashion designers, and world changers.

TOP: Alberta Murphree HS senior photo, 1916. BOTTOM: John Fletcher Huddleston’s passport application photo, 1916.

Traveling to Milan is not an option for everyone, but anyone can study its rich art and cultural history through books, art exhibits, concerts, and more.

Leah Watters and her sister, Harriet, were New York natives but annually wintered in Florida. In 1932, Leah and Harriet traveled to Gainesville at the invitation of the First Presbyterian Church. The Gainesville Sun covered the evening: “Before a large crowd at the First Presbyterian Church last night, Miss Leah Watters, New York lecturer and connoisseur of the arts, delivered an inspiring address on ‘The Cathedrals of Europe.’ [...] The evening’s journey came to a close with an account of two magnificent religious structures of Italy: St. Mark’s of Venice and the Cathedral of Milan. [...] At Milan the mere statistics of the cathedral’s 130 spires and over 6,000 pieces of statuary are forgotten in the contemplation of the amazingly exquisite ‘lace-work in stone,’ the human origin of which seems incredible.”

The Duomo di Milano (Milan Cathedral) is dedicated to the Nativity of St. Mary and is the seat of the Archbishop of Milan. According to the cathedral’s website, construction work probably began in 1386. The incredible building was constructed from Candoglia marble rather than the traditional Lombard brick. Work continued on other areas of the cathedral over the next 400 years until Emperor Napoleon was crowned King of Italy in 1805. His coronation took place at Milan Cathedral, and at his direction, new works were begun to complete the facade. The cathedral sustained some damage during World War II, but it was quickly repaired, and the final door was inaugurated on January 6, 1965.

In February 1935, Mary Bird Clayes, a teacher from Miami, traveled to Gainesville to give a presentation to the Gainesville Association of Fine Arts.

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The Gainesville Sun covered the event:

“‘Famous Paintings and Their Painters’ were discussed yesterday afternoon by Miss Mary Bird Clayes of Miami, before the Gainesville Association of Fine Arts at the February meeting in the Club studio. [...] The highlight of the artist’s address was her description of the masterpiece by Leonardo da Vinci in which he reached supremacy in his art with his rendition of ‘The Last Supper’ painted on the refectory walls of the Monastery of the Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan.”

Artist, inventor, and engineer Leonardo da Vinci lived in Milan for two different periods, 1482-1499 and 1508-1513. His first stay in Milan was the result of the ruling duke, Lodovico Sforza, sponsoring him to create art. The Duke commissioned him to create paintings, assist in the design of the ongoing Milan Cathedral project, and work on other projects. Il Cenacolo, or The Last Supper, was painted by da Vinci between 1495-1498 in the monastery of the Basilica of Santa Maria delle Grazie.

Many of us may never have the privilege of visiting Milan, but come February 6, we will cheer on Team USA and enjoy the sights and sounds of the beautiful and historic city from afar. Nothing brings the world together like the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

TOP: The Milan Cathedral door. MIDDLE ROW: (L) Outside the Milan Cathedral, (R) Piazza San Babila. BOTTOM ROW: (L) A look inside the Milan Cathedral. (R) The famous painting of “The Last Supper.” | Photos courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

SEE IT TO BELIEVE IT

A Guide to Vision Boarding

FIND YOUR PURPOSE

The most important aspect to consider prior to creating a vision board is understanding the purpose behind it and what you hope to achieve with its creation. Though taking these steps require self-reflection, it also allows yourself to become inspired by the future. While vision boarding requires its participants to look into the future, it isn’t a concrete plan with dates or numbers. Instead, consider ideas that develop you ethically or spiritually in personal or professional spheres.

WRITTEN BY STEPH STRICKLAND

In the beginning stages of creating your vision board, consider what makes you the happiest. think of ways to maximize these portions of your life, while minimizing portions that drain this happiness.

After all, the purpose of the vision board is to display how you want to feel, and oftentimes that includes elements that already exist within your life.

Vision boards may include photos of loved ones, ticket stubs or souvenirs from a special trip. These elements of the vision board may have taken place in the past, but they still serve as a reminder to spend more time with family, go to your favorite shows or plan more vacation time.

Finding your purpose is a unique process, and while the core elements of vision boards are important, each board is meant to represent individuality — no two vision boards are meant to be the same.

THE PSYCHOLOGY

Visualization boards have gained popularity in response to authors, athletes and psychologists promoting the effectiveness of visualization, if done correctly.

In her popular novel “The Secret,” Rhonda Byrne shares a personal account of how visualization led to her own successes and claimed that those who discovered this ‘secret’ went on to become some of the greatest individuals in human history, such as Galileo and Abraham Lincoln.

Byrne was able to change the course of her life through the use of vision boards and visualization, and she encourages readers to pursue a similar commitment to their future.

Christopher Clarey of The New York Times reported that Canadian bobsledder Lyndon Rush was among numerous Olympic athletes to utilize visualization and achieve tangible success in the 2014 Winter Olympics.

Additionally, four-time Olympic discus champion Al Oerter and tennis-star Billie Jean King used visualization techniques throughout their professional careers in the 1960s, according to reports.

AJ Adams of Psychology Today supports the findings of Byrne and Clarey.

Adams reported that “mental practices are almost as effective as physical practices,” and he encourages individual to pursue a combination of both elements.

According to an experiment conducted by the University of California, creating an image for your future can only be effective if you are imagining the path to achieve success rather than success itself.

The experiment used three groups to test the visualization theory. The first group visualized scoring high on an exam, the second visualized how they were going to study for the exam and the third group imagined nothing.

“Students visualizing studying prepared better, studied more, scored higher grades, and were less stressed,” according to Psychology Today in response to this experiment.

GET CREATIVE

Your vision board should capture your thought process in visual form. For some, this means a messy and colorful display, whereas others may have a clean cut and minimalistic approach.

Stray from including material goods on your vision board, and instead flip through your favorite magazine, newspaper or book and cut out elements that creatively inspire you. For example, a photo of a beautiful landscape or motivational quote could generate more inspiration than just a photo of a new car, according to this theory.

Vision boards are not only meant to serve as an aid to generate positivity in life. They can also serve to uplift you when experiencing a lack of motivation or creativity. Be on the lookout for photos, quotes and items that generate happiness and represent personal growth when designing your board.

Including quirky or unique elements in your vision board is essential. And once completed, your vision board should represent all aspects of your life.

For some, photos of their favorite healthy foods will encourage them to live a healthy lifestyle. Others may gravitate toward photos of suitcases or planes, reminding them to travel often.

Essentially, your finished project should include all items that hold meaning to you, even if it seems haphazard or confusing to others.

Also, making your vision board visually pleasing will make you more apt to proudly display it. Keep in mind elements such as color coordination or sizing can be important in making an effective vision board.

There are numerous guidebooks, such as “The Complete Guide to Vision Boards” by Christine Kane, that are dedicated to creating a visually appealing and effective vision board.

Once completed, be sure to find a home for your vision board that is clearly visible to encourage you to accomplish your goals.

WAYS TO CELEBRATE VALENTINE’S DAY NO MATTER THE CIRCUMSTANCES

Cupid’s Bow

WRITTEN BY CAMERON COBB

VALENTINE’S DAY—THE MOST ICONIC DAY OF THE YEAR FOR ROMANCE... UNLESS YOU’RE AWAY FROM YOUR PARTNER. OR BROKE. OR THE SITTER CANCELS LAST MINUTE. OR YOU JUST SIMPLY DON’T HAVE A RELATIONSHIP TO CELEBRATE. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the perks of Valentine’s Day outside of the typical arrangements!

IF YOU ARE SINGLE…

Take advantage of the holiday to spoil yourself, or invite a friend or group of fellow singles to join you! Whether it’s one or one dozen people, dedicate the day to indulgences that remind you what love’s all about.

1. Cook a fancy meal with as many courses as your heart desires (and in any order – AKA, dessert first) or have a potluck for others to showcase their baking skills! Bonus

for anyone who incorporates those little candy hearts with messages into their recipe.

2. Check out a movie at your local theater during matinee hours, or guilt-free binge-watch your favorite show from home (just avoid keeping track of the number of episodes watched).

3. Clean up your local parks and trails while getting a breath of fresh air, head to an animal shelter to walk dogs and cuddle cats, or make and distribute care packages for the homeless. You don’t need to be in a relationship to create and share love!

IF YOU ARE ON A BUDGET…

Even with the flood of advertisements promising no better gift than diamond necklaces or oversized heartshaped boxes of candy, you don’t have to break the bank

to express your love. Instead of going beyond your budget, opt for an expense-free experience to celebrate!

1. Want to see what your town’s new yoga studio is all about? Would love to watch your partner tackle Zumba? Have a schedule for the day that’s devoted to trying out new things! Many places offer one class at no charge for first-time visitors, and who knows, you may find a new couple’s activity to do together! At the very least, you’ll get to laugh at the end of the day as you both reflect on your experiences.

2. Go out for a picnic using whatever you both have at home! It’s a fun way to share a meal together without having to worry about the accompanying bill that comes with going out to eat. Faced with a nearly empty fridge? You’d be surprised at what culinary masterpieces you can create! Check out myfridgefood.com for ideas when ingredients are limited.

3. Make a personalized playlist with your relationship as the theme—what was playing on your first date, during your wedding, or even just love songs that remind you of your partner. Have the both of you dress up and dance the night away to your chosen romantic tunes.

IF YOU ARE STAYING IN…

No baby sitter? No problem! If your plans for going out fell through, or you both just detest the idea of being in a sea of other couples, relish in a romantic evening from the comfort of your home!

1. Enjoy the best of movie night without sticky flooring or inflated popcorn prices. Transform your living room into a luxurious “theater” with fluffy pillows and blankets, stock up on candy and junk food (at reasonable costs), and snuggle up while enjoying your favorite flick.

2. Get hyped-up with a Valentine’s Day anticipation-vacation-celebration! Use Google Flights to see what the cheapest dates are for flying to that dream destination you’ve both always talked about, or visit sites like Groupon for all-inclusive getaway packages.

3. Channel into your artistic (or even not-so-artistic) side! Pick up some aprons, blank canvases, brushes and a bottle of wine and host your own private paint party for the two of you, or invite other couples over for a crafty, creative celebration!

IF YOU ARE LONG DISTANCE…

Instead of wallowing in the fact that you aren’t physically together, create lasting memories from a distance so you both forget you’re even apart!

1. See what food delivery services are offered in your partner’s town and surprise them with a “dinner date!”

Many restaurants let you schedule it for a later time, so you can order in advance and have their favorite meal arrive that evening.

2. Have a virtual date by setting aside time for a video chat (via FaceTime, Skype or other online platforms). Watch a movie “together,” laugh with one another over a game of charades or 21 Questions, or challenge one another in an origami competition—loser gets to be in charge of planning the reunion date!

3. Send them on a scavenger hunt! Have someone who’s in their area help with placement of clues, or call places there to see if employees would be able to assist (how could anyone say no to helping arrange such a romantic gesture?). Though this one will take some planning, it’ll be a fun way to show your partner how much you value them—even from afar.

Whatever way you plan on celebrating the day, remember that love isn’t determined by physical presence or a price tag—no matter what your status may be!

TEACHER’S TOOLBOX

By Dr. Kaytie Milliken

Lately, my social media feed is overflowing with “fresh start” posts—new morning routines, family goal charts, and elaborate organizational systems. Scrolling through, I feel that familiar pull: Should I be doing more? Are we missing something important? But here’s what I know deep down in my gut: Most families don’t need a fresh start. They need permission to keep doing what’s already working.

DR. KAYTIE MILLIKEN IS A DEDICATED EDUCATION CONSULTANT EMPOWERING PARENTS AND TEACHERS WITH PRACTICAL, RESEARCH-BASED STRATEGIES AND RESOURCES. BORN AND RAISED IN ALACHUA COUNTY AND A PROUD UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA GRADUATE, KAYTIE COMBINES HER PROFESSIONAL EXPERTISE WITH HER PERSONAL EXPERIENCE AS A MOTHER TO PROVIDE VALUABLE INSIGHTS AND SUPPORT. SHE INVITES YOU TO CONNECT WITH HER ON SOCIAL MEDIA @KAYMILLIKEN OR VIA EMAIL AT KAYTLYNN.MILLIKEN@GMAIL.COM.

Welcome to From The Teacher’s Toolbox: a recurring feature dedicated to empowering you with tools to support children’s growth and development. Each installment will offer practical, research-based techniques and resources to enhance your skills and confidence as a parent or teacher.

Our children are growing and changing every single day. Their brains are forming new connections, their skills are developing, and their understanding of the world is expanding—with or without a brand-new system. The routines you’ve built, no matter how informal or chance they seem, already support your family.

So, before you get swept away by the January momentum, take a pause. Let’s chat about what kids actually need this time of year.

NEW YEAR, SAME YOU

January is optimization season. Open any social media app, and you’ll see it: new morning routines with color-coded charts, family goal-setting workshops, reading challenges, elaborate chore systems. Everyone’s sharing their fresh starts, improvements, and upgrades. The message, subtle or not, is clear: What you’re doing isn’t enough.

There’s a cost to this pressure! Research indicates that adults experience a 40% increase in stress levels during January due to self-imposed pressure to optimize and improve. And here’s the kicker—nearly 80% of New Year’s resolutions fail by February.

Even worse, we tend to overestimate our future capacity by about 30%—meaning those ambitious January plans rarely account for real life. We can imagine ourselves in February—still maintaining that elaborate morning chart system—but we haven’t accounted for the sick days, late nights, and the general chaos of living with children.

A child’s development doesn’t pause and restart in January. And standing still doesn’t always mean falling behind.

CONSISTENCY ALWAYS WINS

That bedtime story your child requests for the 47th time? It’s building neural pathways, expanding vocabulary, and creating a feeling of security. The same after-school snack, the usual weekend morning routine, the consistent way you greet them at pickup—these aren’t mundane at all, they’re anchors! Predictability doesn’t stifle development—it supports it. A child who knows exactly what to expect can focus on learning, exploring, and connecting instead of constantly recalibrating.

Your presence matters more than your plans. Our children don’t need us to be better at planning activities. They need us to be available—physically and emotionally. Sometimes that looks like lying on the couch together, scrolling through funny videos. Sometimes it’s the walk around the neighborhood you’ve done a hundred times. Sometimes it’s just being in the same room while they play, and you fold the laundry.

When we constantly change things up, kids spend their energy adjusting rather than settling in.

WHY IS IT SO HARD TO STAY THE COURSE?

Well, to start, maintenance doesn’t give any dopamine hits. It doesn’t look impressive. It feels like doing nothing when you’re actually doing everything.

And this isn’t just perception—our brains release dopamine when we start something new, but not when we maintain existing behaviors. This makes “staying the course” neurologically harder than starting fresh. Your brain literally rewards you for beginning, not for continuing.

But showing up, in a similar way, day after day? That’s the real work. That’s what builds secure attachments between children and adults. The time with you is valuable because it’s familiar, not despite it.

SHOWING UP VS. SHOWING UP PERFECTLY

Kids don’t need Pinterest-worthy moments. They need us to be present and reasonably regulated most of the time. Did your child eat something resembling a vegetable today? Did bedtime happen within a reasonable window? Did everyone get where they needed to go with most of what they needed to bring? Have you felt at least one moment of genuine connection?

This is good parenting. Even if it doesn’t photograph well. Your imperfect, messy, regular family life is exactly what your kids need.

CHOOSE CHANGE WISELY

So, how do we know when something does need adjusting? Ask yourself:

 Is this problem recurring, or was this just a hard week?

 Am I responding to my family’s actual needs, or to the content I saw online?

 What specifically isn’t working, for whom?

WHEN DOES CHANGE MAKE SENSE?

 If something is causing consistent stress or conflict (not occasional bad days).

 If a developmental shift has happened and your routines don’t fit anymore.

 If family circumstances have changed (new job, new baby, a move).

There’s a difference between responding to needs and reacting to January pressure. “We need an earlier bedtime because everyone is exhausted” is different from “We need a complete evening routine overhaul with a new

chart system.” Most families need minor adjustments, not complete overhauls.

Habit formation takes time. Can your family maintain this new process in the weeks and months ahead? It takes anywhere from 18 to 254 days (averaging about 66 days) for a behavior to become automatic. That’s nowhere near the 21 days we’ve all been told. Real change requires sustained consistency, not January enthusiasm.

YOUR PERMISSION SLIP

So here we are, mid-January, surrounded by “fresh starts” with new charts, ambitious organizational systems, and complete routine overhauls. But the truth is that most of those picture-perfect routines will be quietly abandoned or adjusted within weeks. The reality of maintaining elaborate systems rarely makes it onto our social media feeds.

Maybe this January, the best thing you can do is nothing new at all.

In a culture that pushes for new, better, and more, choosing to stay the course feels fairly countercultural, but it’s also precisely what your family may need. Trust the routines you’ve already built as a family unit. Maintain the consistency your kids count on. That’s not settling—that’s wisdom.

JANUARY

+ FEBRUARY

Seasonal Bites

MIDWINTER MOMENTS, FRESH FACTS, AND SMALL SPARKS OF WONDER TO START THE YEAR

A CLEAN SLATE

January is named after Janus, the Roman god of beginnings, doors, and transitions — depicted with two faces, one looking back and one forward, according to Encyclopedia Britannica.

COLD MOON RISING

January’s full moon is known as the Wolf Moon, a name tied to midwinter nights when wolves were often heard howling near villages, according to NASA.

MATTERS OF THE HEART

The first recorded Valentine was sent in 1415, when Charles, Duke of Orléans, wrote love poems to his wife from prison in the Tower of London, according to the British Library.

RESOLUTION ROOTS

New Year’s resolutions aren’t modern — ancient Babylonians made promises to their gods more than 4,000 years ago, often to repay debts or return borrowed items, according to History Channel.

LEAP OF TIME

Leap Year exists to keep our calendar aligned with Earth’s orbit. Without it, seasons would drift by about six hours every year, according to NOAA.

SOUP SEASON

January is National Soup Month, a nod to one of humanity’s oldest foods. Archaeologists believe soup dates back at least 20,000 years, made possible once waterproof containers were invented.

GROUNDHOG ORIGINS

Groundhog Day traces back to Candlemas, a medieval tradition that used weather patterns to predict the length of winter, according to the Library of Congress.

SHORTEST & SWEETEST

February is the only month that can pass without a full moon — a phenomenon known as a “Black Moon February,” which occurs every 19 years or so, according to NASA.

WINTER WILDLIFE

Many animals don’t hibernate in winter — they enter torpor, a lighter state of rest that allows them to wake and forage during warmer spells, according to the National Park Service.

LANGUAGE LOVE

The word February comes from the Latin februa, meaning purification — fitting for a month historically associated with cleansing and renewal, according to Encyclopedia Britannica.

A SEASON OF LIGHT

By the end of February, most of the U.S. gains nearly an extra hour of daylight compared to early January, a subtle but powerful seasonal shift, according to U.S. Naval Observatory.

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INSIGHTS FROM DR. JOSH NADEAU

Tools for Anxiety

WRITTEN BY CECILIA LEMUS

STRESS TOUCHES EVERY PART OF DAILY LIFE, OFTEN IN WAYS WE DON’T RECOGNIZE UNTIL IT OVERWHELMS US.

For psychologist Dr. Josh Nadeau of UF Health, understanding stress begins with understanding how the mind interprets uncertainty and how our expectations shape nearly every emotional response we experience.

“Anxiety and fear feel the same in the body. Fear is a reaction to a real threat, and anxiety is anticipating that something might go wrong,” he said. That distinction matters because most modern stressors fall into the second category: not immediate danger but the possibility that something could go wrong.

According to Dr. Nadeau, stress often begins with unpredictability. “Stress comes from not knowing what to expect, or when our expectations for the day are violated.” A change in plans, a coworker’s unexpected comment,

traffic that doesn’t behave the way we assumed it would, each one disrupts the mental script of how we thought the day would unfold.

Many people start their day telling themselves it will go smoothly. But Dr. Nadeau says that mindset can unintentionally heighten stress. “When something does happen, your expectation is shattered.”

Instead, he suggests adopting a more flexible approach: “There will probably be at least one stressful thing today, I’ll see if I can spot it.”

This shift may seem small, but the psychological effect can change our reaction.

“When you expect something stressful, you react differently. The emotional impact is much lower,” he says. The nervous system isn’t jolted into panic; it simply recognizes what it expects to encounter.”

The technique applies to everything from morning

commutes to family gatherings. “During holidays or schedule changes, routine disappears. Even positive events can increase stress because routine is an anchor,” Nadeau said. Establishing a temporary structure during these periods can help create predictability where it naturally dissolves.

PRACTICAL TOOLS FOR IN-THE-MOMENT STRESS

When stress does hit, Nadeau recommends grounding exercises. These techniques are designed to bring attention back to the present moment. “Once stress hits, bring your attention to something you can control, your breathing, your hands, your senses.” This intentional shift reduces the brain’s threat response by focusing on something steady and tangible.

One of his favorite tools is rainbow grounding.

“Rainbow grounding can cut anxiety in half in 30 seconds,” he explains. The method involves identifying an item for each color of the rainbow, red through violet, and describing it in detail. You can take a moment to walk to find these items or pause wherever you are. The sensory engagement helps disrupt anxious spiraling.

Another method, sensory grounding, follows the wellknown 5-4-3-2-1 pattern: five things you see, four things you hear, three things you feel, two things you smell, and one thing you taste. But Nadeau highlights one important rule: “You must practice grounding techniques before you’re anxious. When you’re overwhelmed, you won’t remember them.”

For high-pressure situations such as job interviews, presentations, or difficult conversations, Nadeau encourages a mindset that blends preparation with realism.

“Expect at least two questions you won’t be prepared for. When they come, you can say, ‘There it is.’ It makes you look confident and prevents panic.”

Rather than being thrown off, the unexpected becomes something you planned for. Nadeau reminds people that stress is not a personal failure.

Most importantly, Nadeau emphasizes that stress and anxiety are normal human experiences. “Everyone experiences stress and anxiety. It doesn’t mean something’s wrong with you. It means you’re human.”

His approach reframes stress not as an enemy to defeat, but as a natural signal that can be understood, anticipated, and navigated with skillful habits and flexible expectations. By shifting how we prepare for the day, how we ground ourselves in stressful moments, and how we interpret anxiety, Dr. Nadeau’s insights offer a compassionate pathway to calmer, more prepared living.

ABOUT DR. JOSH NADEAU

Dr. Josh Nadeau is a clinical psychologist with expertise in anxiety, OCD, and neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism and ADHD. After completing advanced training at the University of South Florida’s Rothman Center, he spent nearly a decade leading intensive mental health programs and contributing to research. He continues to provide consultation, professional training, and parent education nationwide.

“Rainbow grounding can cut anxiety in half in 30 seconds,” he explains. The method involves identifying an item for each color of the rainbow, red through violet, and describing it in detail. You can take a moment to walk to find these items or pause wherever you are. The sensory engagement helps disrupt anxious spiraling.

TREAT YOURSELF

Contentment, Self Love, Inner Peace

‘Tis the season for resolutions and romance. January is a fresh start to a new year, and February festivities center around the celebration of love. But one of the best resolutions you can make this year is to love the one person closest to you — yourself.

WRITTEN BY CRYSTAL SMITH

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERICKA WINTER PAULEY

Prioritizing your own

seems

ing, but in reality those good vibes can radiate into every area of your life. Happiness is contagious, so finding ways to bring yourself joy can be a service to everyone around you. The world could use an outbreak of goodness, so we’ve come up with three unique ways to put a smile on your face.

GIVE BACK

Yes, this is all about you. Giving to others is actually one of the greatest ways to bring joy to yourself. An article published in Time Magazine stated that researchers have found helping others stimulates the pleasurable reward parts of our brains. Doing something nice for someone else gives us the same feeling as indulging in our favorite treat, so finding a way to bring joy to others is actually one of the best way to keep the cycle of happiness going. It can be as small as bringing coffee to a friend or as big as organizing a fundraising event for charity. Any act of kindness for someone else is a drop in your happiness bucket.

MEDITATE

Sometimes the best gift you can give yourself is attention and time. Meditation and yoga allows us to take time to center on ourselves, and that can be incredibly refreshing for the soul. Many people think meditation means just sitting quietly alone. But active meditation is the mindful focusing of your thoughts. A good yoga instructor can help guide that process. An article in Forbes found that the effects of meditation actually rival antidepressants for depression and anxiety. That’s not to say that meditation is a replacement for medication every time. But researchers at Johns Hopkins found that the effect of active meditation on the brain was comparable to medication. It seems that meditation could be a great tool in the treatment toolbox for achieving a happier life.

Being a stranger in a foreign place can give you a new perspective on life, and a greater appreciation for the beautiful world we live in.

TRAVEL

Sometimes staying in one place for too long can make your mind feel like it’s under house arrest. Most all of us felt that in 2020. Traveling not only broadens your horizons, but it affords you the opportunity to experience a world outside of your bubble. Traveling solo means getting outside your comfort zone and experiencing new adventures. One study showed that women who travel at least twice a year are significantly less likely to suffer a heart attack. Although the planning and execution of a trip can seem daunting to some, travel actually reduces your stress levels in the long run, and the effects of a vacation can linger weeks after you return. People who travel are more creative, and they have more empathy for others. Being a stranger in a foreign place can give you a new perspective on life, and a greater appreciation for the beautiful world we live in.

So let’s start off 2026 by showing a little love to ourselves, too!

Creating New Futures

AWAKEN TO A HEALTHIER WAY OF LIVING

At Awaken Chiropractic in Gainesville, they want you to be FREE from pain and illness. Focused on improving the health and wellness of the entire community, their mission is to not only provide you chiropractic care, but also the tools you need to improve your overall health and wellness - for a lifetime.

The highly trained and professional staff at Awaken Chiropractic work around a fundamental value – to care for patients the way they would their own family. From a thorough and complete physical and neurological examination to an open and honest approach towards an individualized plan for care, the team is committed to involving you in the roadmap to good health.

The chiropractic adjustments you receive at Awaken Chiropractic are safe and effective, and people of all ages, from infant to senior, can benefit from spinal re-alignments. With a long history of chiropractic care constantly improving, Awaken uses only the latest technology, techniques and approaches to assist in treatment. For example, the Torque Release Technique (TRT) is the most specific, targeted, and gentlest application adjustment available. By using a special instrument called an integrator in the process of applying targeted and specific adjustments to the spine – TRT allows for a more comfortable overall experience, without having to use the traditional cracking and popping found in most other chiropractic centers. This focused approach delivers

pinpoint accuracy to help re-align the spinal column and re-establish impaired neurological imbalances.

Hundreds of Five Star reviews detail assistance with neck & back pain, digestive issues, anxiety, migraines & headaches and numbness or tingling, however they are also uniquely specialized in the areas of pediatric and maternal care. They’ve helped hundreds of expecting mothers suffer less discomfort and enjoy a healthier overall pregnancy and post-partum recovery.

“Seeing our patients improve their health is what we’re most passionate about”

“Seeing our patients improve their health is what we’re most passionate about,” said Drs. Shane and Brittany Semegon, owners of Awaken Chiropractic. “We want to help make an impact in the health of our patients and our community.”

To learn more about Awaken Chiropractic, their incredible staff, and the many ways they can help you live your healthiest life, call the office or visit their website for additional information.

WAG’S 7TH SUNSHINE STATE BOOK FESTIVAL

Turning the Page

WRITTEN BY SUMMER JARRO

MEMBERS OF THE WRITER’S ALLIANCE OF GAINESVILLE (WAG) WANT TO PROMOTE LITERACY IN THE GAINESVILLE COMMUNITY. THE SUNSHINE STATE BOOK FESTIVAL ENABLES THEM TO MEET THAT GOAL.

The Sunshine State Book Festival is an annual event hosted by the organization that showcases authors from across the country.

“We decided several years ago that we should have a book festival in Gainesville because we have arts festivals, music festivals, but we didn’t have anything for literature, and we have a thriving group of writers,” said Pat Caren, chairman of the book festival and member of the WAG.

This year’s event is Jan. 23 and 24 and is open to the public.

The Writers Alliance of Gainesville, which had its first meeting in 2009, promotes, encourages, and supports

aspiring and experienced writers, according to its website. The organization fulfills its mission through monthly meetings, public readings, critique groups, events, contests, and collaborations with schools and other organizations.

It is the seventh year now, the organization has put on the Sunshine State Book Festival. It started with a showcase of authors and their works and has now expanded into two days, with the first including a workshop and the second the showcase and expo.

The “Writers’ Workshop Intensive” is from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Jan. 23 in the grand ballroom at the Best Western Gateway at 4200 NW 97th Blvd. The Authors Showcase and Expo, where attendees can connect with authors, learn about their work, and buy their books and other publications, runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Jan. 24 at the Santa Fe College Fine Arts Hall, 3000 NW 83rd St. in Gainesville. From noon to 3 p.m., there will be a “Children’s Story Time”

featuring seven children’s book authors who will read to kids at the event.

“We’re trying to promote reading in the children and everyone else,” Caren said.

It is the second time the “Writers’ Workshop Intensive” is being held, following a successful first year. Registration is required for the workshop, which will include four presenters discussing various writing topics.

The first presentation, “Enhance Your Prose” from 8:30 to 10 a.m., will be led by Caren and share tips on how to take writing to the next level. Richard Gartee will lead the second workshop, “Indy Publishing without pulling your hair out,” which will walk through the process of an author setting up their book on indie publishing platforms. It is from 10:30 a.m. to noon.

The third workshop is titled “Building your platform as a writer—website, social media, and more.” It will help writers grow their audience and visibility with readers and publishers. Jolene MacFadden will lead the presentation from 1 to 2:30 p.m. The last workshop is titled “Marketing your books based on a business plan.” Presenter Vickey Wollan will teach attendees how to put together a business

plan and give them marketing tools from 3 to 4:30 p.m.

After, there will be a presentation of the play “Passion Dey Couldn’t Steal – The Zora Neale Hurston Story” from 6 to 7 p.m., followed by a reception where the public can meet with authors.

“You can talk to an author and you can find out, ‘What inspired you to do this or why did you do this story?’”

About 100 authors are expected to be featured for the showcase and expo on the second day of the festival.

“One of the focuses is to have the writers come in contact with the public, or for the public to be able to meet with the authors and talk to them about their books,” Caren said. “Of course, everyone likes to sell books, but one of the important things is to have the readers and writers come together and meet, which is a good way to promote literacy in the area.”

A wide range of genres will be showcased.

Multiple genres are featured at the Sunshine State Book Festival.

“It’s not just all fiction there,” Caren said. “There are non-fiction authors, a variety of different genres from mainstream fiction, mystery, science fiction, historical. We have a wide range to get people interested in books and reading.”

Caren has been one of the authors since the beginning and continues this year.

She shares her novels, mostly science fiction, under the name Marie Q. Rogers.

“[I like] talking with people about my books, talking with other authors and looking at their books,” Caren said. “There are so many I’d like to buy and read, but you can only do so much, and also seeing the people who enjoy the event, the writers and public, it’s a feeling, and seeing that is rewarding, absolutely.”

Gartee will also be one of the authors in attendance for the seventh year.

“It’s a nice intention. It’s obviously a nice opportunity for authors to be able to have a forum in which they can show their books, and they can talk to people about their books, and they can sell their books,” he said. “I think for the readers too, it’s an opportunity to have an experience in which you can talk to an author and you can find out, ‘What inspired you to do this or why did you do this story?,’ which is a different experience than if you just bought a book on Amazon, or if you just bought a book at the bookstore and you never met the person. I think that there’s a lot of interchange there for both sides that the authors get a chance to meet the readers, and the readers get a chance to talk with an author.”

Gartee writes several works, including historical fiction and collections of poetry. He has been able to make many connections with fellow authors and the community through his work over the years.

He also continues to attend because he feels the festival brings more culture to the Gainesville area, he said.

“The Hippodrome Theatre, when they started, they were just a small group of UF theatre students who graduated, decided to start a theatre, but as they went along, as they built up their reputation as their theatre, Gainesville became known as one of the theatrical cities in Florida,” Gartee said. “… I think that the same thing happens with the Sunshine State Book Festival. After six or seven years of doing that, we’ve helped reinforce the image of Gainesville as a cultural destination, a place with arts, writing, theatre, and dance. This is a cultural city.”

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The Sunshine State Book Festival Chair and author, Pat Caren.

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ONE MAGICAL WEEKEND OF MEDIEVAL MERRIMENT AT DEPOT PARK

Hoggetowne Goes Downtown

FOR NEARLY FOUR DECADES, THE CLANG OF SWORDS, THE SWIRL OF SKIRTS, AND THE JOYOUS CRIES OF “HUZZAH!” HAVE MARKED WINTER IN Gainesville with the beloved Hoggetowne Medieval Faire. In 2026, while the traditional multi-weekend faire takes a brief pause, the spirit of Hoggetowne is very much alive—and headed somewhere new.

On January 24 and 25, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Hoggetowne Medieval Faire will transform Depot Park into a vibrant village of medieval revelry for One Magical Weekend. The event is free and open to the public, rain or shine, inviting families, longtime fans, and first-time visitors alike to step into a world of history, fantasy, and fun.

Dubbed “Hoggetowne Goes Downtown,” this special twoday celebration brings the faire’s most cherished elements to the heart of Gainesville. Artisans and craftspeople will

showcase their skills, offering handmade goods and demonstrations inspired by olde world traditions. Throughout the park, visitors can expect lively stage combat as armored fighters clash swords, medieval music and dance that stir the spirit, and interactive performances that blur the line between audience and actor.

One of the weekend’s most anticipated spectacles is the Living Chessboard, where strategy comes alive through costumed performers reenacting the ultimate game of wit and warfare. Guests can also witness royal knighting ceremonies, as the King and Queen bestow honors upon worthy participants—much to the delight of young squires and seasoned faire-goers alike.

No medieval gathering would be complete without hearty fare. The food court will feature festival favorites, including the ever-iconic turkey legs, ensuring no visitor leaves hungry—or without a little grease on their fingers.

While this year’s format may look different, the heart of Hoggetowne remains unchanged. The 2026 event marks 39 years of grand tradition, community celebration, and shared imagination. It’s a reminder that even in times of transition, Gainesville’s love for creativity, history, and togetherness endures.

So don your finest cloak, grab your family and friends, and make your way downtown. For one magical weekend, Depot Park becomes a portal to another time—where merriment reigns, legends roam, and the spirit of Hoggetowne lives on.

One of the weekend’s most anticipated spectacles is the Living Chessboard, where strategy comes alive through costumed performers reenacting the ultimate game of wit and warfare.

Embracing Life

BY DONNA BONNELL

TWO SONGS, TWO PERSPECTIVES

As I turned the calendar from 2025 to 2026, I found myself reflecting on what the future may hold. This year will mark my seventy-second birthday, an age that brings both reflection and a bit of disbelief. Over time, I have observed changes in my abilities: my physical strength has diminished, while my interpersonal skills and self-confidence have strengthened. This prompted me to ask: how can I make this coming year truly meaningful?

While wrestling with how to articulate my goals and resolutions for the new year, two songs unexpectedly guided my thoughts. Both provided contrasting yet complementary philosophies for facing my current dilemma. The tunes became a musical yin and yang.

The first, “Turn! Turn! Turn!” (also known as “To Everything There is a Season”), written by Pete Seeger, played repeatedly in my mind. It seemed to persistently nudge me to ponder my resolutions for the coming year. The lyrics speak of seasons and times for every purpose under heaven—moments to be born, to die, to plant, to harvest, to gain, to lose, to keep, and to cast away. What message was I supposed receive from this tune? Losing and casting away were words almost foreign to my vocabulary.

I was a bit confused. For most of my life, I focused strongly on positivity. I consistently affirmed my belief in my own capabilities. Those reaffirming thoughts not only motivated me but also helped me build my sense of selfworth. This approach shaped my outlook and guided my actions. With effort and endurance, I was able to accomplish almost anything I truly deeply desired.

As I reflected on the message I was receiving, it initially seemed to suggest that I should let go of goals. Was that truly the lesson being offered? I wondered if I was perhaps misunderstanding its meaning and sensed that there must be more insight to uncover. Instead of jumping to conclusions,

I chose to pause and give myself time for new insights to emerge.

Eventually, clarity arrived unexpectedly in the form of a second song. Over the course of about one week, while listening to my favorite radio station, an unusual occurrence caught my attention. The same song played for several days in a row. This repetition compelled me to listen more closely. The song was Cody Johnson’s award-winning tune, “Til You Can’t.” It served as a life-affirming anthem about seizing opportunities and making the most of the present moment.

With effort and endurance, I was able to accomplish almost anything I truly deeply desired.

The song’s message was clear and compelling: “If you got a chance, take it, take it while you got a chance.” This encouraged me to recognize and appreciate the opportunities that come my way, and to act on them with determination rather than hesitation.

Another lyric resonated deeply: “If you got a dream, chase it, ‘cause a dream won’t chase you back.” The emphasis is on pursuing personal goals and ambitions, rather than waiting passively for circumstances to change.

Reflecting on the guidance from two thought-provoking songs, I recognize that my journey is only just beginning. The wisdom I have gained has inspired me to strike a balance between accepting my limitations and actively embracing opportunities as they arise. As I step into 2026, I understand the importance of doing the work required to both let go of what no longer serves me and to seize the moments that bring meaning and purpose to my life. This dual approach will guide me in making the coming year truly fulfilling. Even as an elder, I can continue to grow and seek new possibilities while honoring the changes that come with time.

Art in the Garden Show and Sale

February

Cedar Key Fine Arts Show

Saturday & Sunday April 11 &12, 10:00 a.m. 5:00 p.m.

A MORNING RESET

Morning Habits and Rituals to Adopt in the New Year

A new year means an epochal fresh start, but sometimes the dry ink of old habits bleeds its way into the blank pages of a new day. This year, in 2026, when you’re rinsing champagne glasses, popping balloons, and looking out of the window, wondering what the new year has in store, throw away your old habits along with the shiny streamers and the plastic gold silverware. Create new morning habits and rituals that will make every morning feel like a step toward a better you. Need ideas? Continue reading to lay the groundwork for a fabulous 2026.

WRITTEN BY DANA BRYAN

1. DECENTER WORK IN THE MORNING; WAKE UP AN HOUR EARLIER

Work shouldn’t be the focus of your day. Wake up an hour earlier than you usually do and give yourself time to enjoy the morning. Take away screens (phones, computers, etc.) and any other blue-light distractions, and simply focus on yourself. Journal. Take a longer shower. Sip your coffee and thoughtfully chew your breakfast instead of wolfing it down as you’re halfway through the door. The extra time in the morning might take some time to get used to, but in a few days, you’ll discover a thing or two about yourself. When the world is quiet, before your kids are awake, before your husband peppers you with questions, and before your brain has a chance to consider the million and one tasks on your to-do list, who are you and what do you like to do? Give yourself the time to figure it out. Once you find your answers, don’t look back.

2. INVEST IN A BODY AND SKINCARE ROUTINE.

You deserve to look in the mirror, drag your soft hand across your freshly showered skin, and feel amazing. A simple body and skincare routine is one way to help make that a reality. Indulge in the calming sensation of self-care. By investing in these small, ritualistic steps—cleanse, exfoliate, tone, moisturize, and SPF—you’re practicing investing in yourself. Proper maintenance of your body and skin will have you looking and feeling like a brand-new you. In the morning, those precious extra minutes of grooming will

become a haven from the chaos of the world awaiting outside. When those new products sink into your skin every morning, you’ll feel grounded in the possible joys of the day. When you bear witness to the dewy proof of those products working, you’ll feel like enjoying those joys is a more substantial possibility than ever before. With this newfound confidence coursing through your veins, the enjoyment of life will become second nature.

3. STRETCHING AND EXERCISE

A tale as old as time, and yet it’s a tale we would all rather forget. I’m sorry to be the one to remind you. Daily stretching and exercise, especially in the morning, has countless benefits for both your physical and mental health. Not only does it increase blood flow and circulation, helping you to wake up, but it also releases endorphins, improving your mood for the remainder of the day. It also boosts your metabolism, which is a bonus for those with a weight loss goal for the new year. Choosing to work out in the morning can make it easier to establish this new habit as a part of your daily routine. Consistency can often be the most challenging part of establishing new habits, but when completed in the morning, before life and work get in the way, the task doesn’t seem as daunting. It’s inconveniently convenient. Start small; even ten minutes can make a difference. It’s small habits that build great lives and healthy bodies.

4. DARK SHOWERING

“Dark Showering” is the latest wellness trend, and it is quite literally showering in the dark—or in dim lighting. It reduces visual stimulation to create a calming, meditative experience by signaling your nervous system to unwind and boost melatonin. The New York Post and Glamour magazine say dark showering can be especially beneficial to those with anxiety, ADHD, and insomnia. For those who are weary, it might be better to ease into this practice, trying it two to three days a week for thirty minutes to an hour. Pro Tip: Tie eucalyptus, lavender, or another pleasantly perfumed plant onto your shower head for a heightened sensory experience. When one sense is dulled (in this case, vision), your other senses are heightened (smell). The aroma will add to the soothing atmosphere and gently wake you up in the morning. Dark showering can also be effective in the evening or afternoon to de-stress and relax after a long day of work.

5. DRIVING IN INTENTIONAL SILENCE

On your drive to work, try driving in silence. No radio. No music. No podcasts. No audiobooks. Just silence. This will allow you to sit with your thoughts, feelings, and emotions. Sometimes, our bodies internalize daily struggles before our minds can fully process them. By giving yourself the chance to evaluate and reflect on your feelings mentally, you might find that the source of your stress or irritation is different from what you initially thought. It wasn’t your partner’s loud chewing, but an upcoming work project that had tension mounting in your shoulders. Practicing to drive in silence is a form of mindfulness. It pushes a person to stay present in a moment and focus on the task at hand, reducing stress and improving concentration. Embrace the silence. You might find it calming and centering before or after a long day in an overstimulating environment. Of course, stay safe. Make sure to stay engaged during long drives, and if you find yourself becoming drowsy, pull over and rest.

Create new morning habits and rituals that will make every morning feel like a step toward a better you.

Healthy morning habits and rituals are easy to begin and only slightly harder to maintain. Be kind to yourself. Try these five habits one at a time or all at once. Try them in stages, delicately easing them into your life, or try it in full force, every day from Jan. 1st and on. It’s all about what works best for you and what will produce the best version of you. Grace is as key as consistency when trying something new, so when learning and reflecting, be tough but fair. Approach the new year—2026—with grace, goodwill, and bravery.

FARM TALES

From Mother Hen

TIMELESS

Do you ever stop to think about what a magical thing time is?

While we are busy living our days without much thought, we grow from a babe in our mother’s arms into who we are today. For children, time isn’t measured by minutes or days – but by seasons, holidays and special events. Time seems to creep by when measured only by birthdays and holidays. In my case, my birthday was exactly six months and one day after Christmas. So, in my childish mind, time passed very slowly.

The ticking of a clock is a very comforting thing to me. One of my earliest memories was of my grandfather and his pocket watch. He was a farmer who wore bib overalls, and he carried his watch in a pocket on a long chain. He knew I was fascinated with the “tick-tock” and would indulge me with a listen whenever we were together. It was a special bond with my grandpa, and a very unique one since he was a quiet man and not given to many sentimentalities. He didn’t talk to me much, but I felt special because he let me listen to his pocket watch.

the short hand showed the hour while the long hand told the minutes. When my birthday rolled around, my mother rewarded me with a beautiful wind-up alarm clock with blue rhinestones encircling the clock face. I loved that special gift, and I have it on my vanity to this day. It’s over 60 years old, and it still works – ticking that familiar sound that means so much to me.

When I was old enough to stay at my grandparents while my mom did a few errands, my grandma would sit me on her lap and teach me how to chain stich with her crochet needle. The house was silent except for the ticking of a mantle clock in the living room. Something about that cozy moment in time comes back to me whenever I’m in a quiet room and hear a clock ticking.

When my mother felt I was old enough to learn to tell time, she worked with an old alarm clock that she could twist the hands to different positions on the clock face. I was fascinated with the concept, and learned quickly that

When I became a teenager, my interest in clocks branched out into new dimensions. Since I loved reading, one of my favorite subjects was anything to do with time travel. “The Time Machine” by H. G. Wells was a book I checked out of the library many times. Any book or movie with this subject matter still grabs my attention even now. I currently have read all the Outlander novels (all eight of them) by Diana Gabaldon and eagerly watch each season of the series on cable television. There is something about the concept of time, and being able to travel through it, that just fascinates me. If I could, I would be first in line to travel back to Victorian times… provided I could return home to the present again. The thing that stands out to me, when I look back in time, is that every age and every decade was “modern” to the people living in that era. In my own life as I was growing up in the 1950s and ‘60s, we thought it was the most modern of times. America was involved in the space race to get a satellite to circle the earth, robots and space travel were envisioned for the near future, and TV dinners were invented to save housewives time in the kitchen. What on earth could be more modern than that?

It’s funny, but when you look even further back in time to the Roaring ‘20s, they thought they were the most modern in their era as well. Young women threw out their corsets and shortened their skirts, while the hair styles were cut into a short bob – much to their parents’ horror. Thanks to Henry Ford the automobile was being mass-produced, making it affordable for nearly everyone. The American public was able to travel the country efficiently and economically for the first time. What could be more modern than that? We can go back even further, hundreds and hundreds of years, and I guarantee that each generation thought they were the most modern society ever. And, in a way, I guess you could say that they were.

MOTHER HEN IS PROUD TO BE A “BABY BOOMER” RAISED ON A FARM POPULATED BY DOGS, CATS, CHICKENS, DUCKS, GEESE, HORSES AND COWS. THE WISDOM SHE GAINED WHILE GROWING UP IN THE COUNTRY CAN’T BE FOUND

When my husband and I were married five years, we commemorated the milestone with a grandfather clock. The familiar quiet ticking and the chimes on the quarter hour have been background music to our family’s days for over 40 years. It’s a comforting sound of “home.” Clocks will always hold a special place in my heart.

Now that I’m a grandmother, I can sit back and observe how quickly time actually does pass. When I don’t see my little granddaughters for a month or two, it’s mind boggling how fast they have grown. The weeks fly by now; and if I blink, it’s time to turn the next page on the calendar. The passage of time seems to be going faster and faster with each year.

I’m looking back wondering how I got here, and where all the years went? While I wasn’t looking, my three chicks went from babies in my arms to the young adults they are now. Did I enjoy each day enough? I hope I did. I hope I didn’t let a moment slip away without appreciating what a blessing each normal, ordinary day was.

Because if there’s anything I’ve learned while listening to the ticking of my clocks, it’s that each day is a gift and each memory I make is timeless.

Insuring

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

Sunday, February 8 at 2 p.m. Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Rd.

DINOSAUR WORLD LIVE

GAINESVILLE – Dare to experience the dangers and delights of Dinosaur World Live in this roar-some-ly thrilling show, and a must-see for all dinosaur enthusiast in your family. Discover the prehistoric world and meet the creatures that inhabit it, including Triceratops, Giraffatitan, Segnosaurus and the flesh-eating giant Tyrannosaurus Rex, all brought to life by sophisticated puppetry. After the show, a special meet-and-greet gives young explorers the chance to say hello to the creatures up close. performingarts.ufl.edu/events

CAMELLIA SHOW

January 3 & 4 at from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Kanapaha Botanical Gardens 4700 SW 58th Dr.

GAINESVILLE – This event features prize-winning camellias of all sizes, shapes and colors. This show is geared toward educating the public about the care, culture and appreciation of camellias. Camellias will be available for sale while supplies last. Regular admission price for non-members, which includes entry into the gardens and the show. Members who bring their membership card to be scanned have free entry to the show. kanapaha.org/events

FLYING PIG PARADE

Saturday, January 3 at 2 p.m. Bo Diddley Plaza, 111 E University Ave.

GAINESVILLE – The Flying Pig Parade is now in its third year. It’s not like most parades. This year’s theme will be, “They who shun whimsy shall suffer rigor mortis before death.” Joe Courter will serve as grand marshal. Courter will be leading the annual procession that celebrates all that is wild, weird and wonderful about living in North Central Florida. The parade begins at 2 p.m. at Bo Diddley Plaza. It marches south on SE 1 St. to the Hippodrome Theater, then takes two left turns before returning to the Plaza. Bo Diddley’s Birth Bash will follow the parade. The concert begins at 3 p.m. flyingpigparade.org

GAINESVILLE FOLK FESTIVAL

January 10 & 11 at 1 p.m.

Heartwood Soundstage, 619 S Main St.

GAINESVILLE – Join us for the first annual Gainesville Folk Festival featuring oldtime and bluegrass jams, contradancing, folk art, performances and more. Outdoor and indoor stages. Kids 12 and under are free. Student and group discounts available. Lawn chairs allowed as space permits.

heartwoodsoundstage.com/shows

TACO TAKEOVER

Saturday, January 10 from 1 – 8 p.m. Oaks Mall, 6419 W Newberry Rd.

GAINESVILLE – Music, food trucks and tacos. A family event. Free parking and free admission to the public. saturdayshoppes.com/events/

SIP & SING ALONG

Sunday, January 11 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

The Abbey at Blackadder Brewing Company, 618 NW 60th St Ste K

GAINESVILLE – Enjoy a lively sing-along session featuring your favorite tunes hosted by DJ Bubbles while sipping and socializing in The Abbey’s cozy atmosphere. Perfect for groups, duets or solo stars ready to belt out. Come hungry, come thirsty and come ready to sing! Must be 21+ years. blackadderbrewing.com/news-updates

HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS 100 YEAR TOUR

Monday, January 12 at 7 p.m. Stephen O’Connell Center, 250 Gale Lemerand Dr.

GAINESVILLE – The Harlem Globetrotters 100 Year Tour is coming to Gainesville. This is a once-in-a-century celebration of 100 years of jaw-dropping “No way!” moves, 100 years of “Wow!” and 100 years of heart-pounding thrills. The Harlem Globetrotters are coming to the O’Connell Center with their most legendary tour ever. From gravity-defying dunks to game-changing tricks, experience the team that redefined basketball. This is history you can feel. oconnellcenter.ufl.edu/events/harlem-globetrotters-100-year-tour

ONE FLEW OVER THE CUCKOO’S NEST OPENING NIGHT

Friday, January 23 at 7:30 p.m. Gainesville Community Playhouse, 4039 NW 16th Blvd.

GAINESVILLE – One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest is a darkly comic stage adaptation of Ken Kesey’s iconic novel. The acclaimed drama is searing and timely exploration of institutional power and the resilience of the human spirit. It plays Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. from January 23 through February 8. gcplayhouse.org

1/24

SUNSHINE STATE BOOK FESTIVAL

Saturday, January 24 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Santa Fe College Fine Arts Hall, 3000 NW 83rd St.

GAINESVILLE – Come enjoy a day of book browsing and meet over 100 local and regional authors. Outstanding authors from around Florida and the nation who write in many genres will gather at the Santa Fe College Fine Arts Hall to sell books and talk about their work. Festivities include guest speakers, giveaways, storytelling and a play. sunshinestatebookfestival.com

HOGGETOWNE MEDIEVAL FAIRE

January 24 & 25 from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Depot Park, 874 SE 4th St.

GAINESVILLE – Behold, as the Hoggetowne Medieval Faire transforms Gainesville’s Depot Park into a bastion of medieval revelry. Artisans and craftspeople shall ply their trades with skill, olde world demonstrations shall enchant and the clash of swords in stage combat shall resonate through the air. Medieval music and dances shall lift thy spirits and a living chessboard shall unfold its strategic dance. Witness royal knighting ceremonies with the King and Queen, indulge in court favorites and savor the timeless delight of turkey legs. hoggetownemedfaire.com

TEDX GAINESVILLE

Saturday, January 31 at 2:30 p.m. University of Florida Auditorium, 333 Newell Dr.

GAINESVILLE – Get ready to be inspired, challenged and thrilled at TEDxGainesville’s monumental 5th event. Come be a part of an unforgettable evening in Gainesville where creativity and innovation collide. Our lineup of speakers and performers will ignite your curiosity and leave you with a fresh perspective. From cutting-edge tech to groundbreaking art, TEDxGainesville is your ticket to a journey of discovery and enlightenment. Don’t miss out – grab your tickets now and secure your spot at the event of the year. performingarts.ufl.edu/events

SWAN LAKE

Saturday, January 31 at 7:30 p.m.

Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Rd.

GAINESVILLE – Back by popular demand. The most beautiful ballet of all time, Swan Lake is the story of a Prince whose fiancée has been transformed into a swan by the evil sorcerer, Von Rothbart. Featuring DANB Principal Dancer Carla Amancio as the Swan Queen, the stage is transformed into a world of beauty and artistry. Family friendly. performingarts.ufl.edu/events

MY VALENTINE BAT TOUR’S

February 1 – 27 from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Lubee Bat Conservancy, 1309 NW 192nd Ave.

GAINESVILLE – Join Lubee Bat conservancy for our, My Valentine Bat Tour. Enjoy an intimate encounter for 2 with the world’s largest bats! Get up close with our winged beauties and create lifelong memories with a special loved in your life. A 2-person ticket includes an up-close visit with the world famous Lubee bats, while kabob feeding some of their favorite foods; Designing toys during an enrichment building session in which the bats will enjoy the “fruit of your labor; Having an original piece of art created during your tour. The bats will paint on 8x10 canvas with the colors you’ve chosen. lubee.org/event-calendar

BLACK HISTORY MONTH – JAZZ COLLAGE

Saturday, February 21 from 2 – 3:30 p.m. Archer Branch Alachua County Library District, 13266 SW State Road 450

ARCHER – Crank up the tunes with Aretha Franklin, Louis Armstrong and other jazz legends as you collage your own work of art inspired by the joy of the music. Join us for a fun art jam session where we’ll make two collages using the magic of tissue paper bleeding for a vibrant background and share some tips to give those finishing touches some extra pizazz, all while listening to the timeless tunes of jazz legends. Supplies provided. Please wear clothing suitable for art making. attend.aclib.us/events?

THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL

Monday, February 23 at 7:30 p.m. Phillips Center, 3201 Hull Rd.

GAINESVILLE – An uplifting comeback story like no other, TINA – The Tina Turning Musical is the inspiring journey of a woman who broke barriers and became the Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Set to the pulse-pounding soundtrack of her most beloved hits, this electrifying sensation will send you soaring to the rafters. performingarts.ufl.edu/events

BODACIOUS HANDBAG BINGO Thursday, February 26 at 6 p.m. Gainesville Woman’s Club Clubhouse, 2809 W University Ave.

GAINESVILLE – Save the date for Gainesville Woman’s Clubs’s 12th annual Bodacious Handbag Bingo. Tickets are $40 for bingo cards and light dinner. Doors open at 6 p.m. Bingo prizes feature designer handbags. All proceeds benefit the Guardian Angels Medical Service dogs. gainesvillewomansclub.org/events

2/7

VALENTINE’S CRAFT & VENDOR MARKET

February 7 from 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. & February 8 from 12 – 6 p.m. Oaks Mall, 6419 Newberry Rd.

GAINESVILLE – Fall in love with the Gainesville Valentine’s Craft & Vendor Market. Join us for a fun-filled weekend featuring local vendors, sweet treats and perfect gift ideas for your valentine. Let’s make the Valentine’s Craft & Vendor Market a heartfelt success together. We can’t wait to see you there! hometownvendormarket.com/florida

RECURRING EVENTS

HAILE EQUESTRIAN RIDE & WINE

First Fridays from 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Haile Equestrian, 7680 SW 46th Blvd.

GAINESVILLE – Enjoy an adults-only evening of horseback riding, wine, charcuterie and great conversations with us. All riding levels welcome. Tickets are $75 per-person. haileequestrian.com/events

GUIDED WALK AT KANAPAHA

First Saturdays from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Kanapaha Botanical Gardens, 4700 SW 58th Drive

GAINESVILLE – Enjoy a guided tour through Kanapaha Botanical Gardens starting at 10 am the first Saturday of every month. Regular admission price applies for non-members. kanapaha.org

JAZZ ON THE GREEN

Second Saturdays from 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. Celebration Pointe, 5001 Celebration Pointe Ave. Suite 140

GAINESVILLE – Join Celebration Point every second Saturday of the month for live music, food, drinks and more! Spread a blanket under the setting sun, and catch some beautiful music on the green. celebrationpointe.com

BIRDS AND BREWS

First Sundays from 4:45 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. First Magnitude Brewing Company, 1220 SE Veitch St.

GAINESVILLE – A guided bird walk through Depot Park guided by the Alachua County Audubon Society and hosted by First Magnitude Brewing Company. Tour begins at The First Magnitude Warehouse and begins walking to Depot Park at 5 p.m. fmbrewing.com/fmevents/

GAINESVILLE CARS & COFFEE

First Saturdays & Second Sundays from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Whole Foods Market, 3490 SW Archer Rd.

GAINESVILLE – A gathering for automotive enthusiasts of all types from exotics and classics to imports and jalopies. The meet is free to attend; coffee will be provided to attendees, as well as breakfast items for sale.

gainesvillecarsandcoffee.com

FUN WITH FLOWERS

Third Tuesdays from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Gainesville Garden Club, 1350 NW 75th St.

GAINESVILLE – Make beautiful floral arrangements to take home! Social gathering with coffee and refreshments starts at 9:30 a.m. and guided session with a local florist begins at 10 a.m. ggcfl.org

TOT TROT

Tuesdays from 9 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.

Florida Museum of Natural History, 3215 Hull Road

GAINESVILLE – Get your toddler excited about science and natural history! Join Discovery Zone nature ambassadors for an exciting and interactive nature walk. Each program highlights an outdoor area and encourages exploration with a closer look at nature and museum objects. This program promotes sensory experiences, investigation and exploration with a focus on science. Recommended for children ages 2-5 years old (child must be accompanied by an adult chaperone). Tickets are $6 for members and $7 for non-members. floridamuseum.ufl.edu

BIRD WALKS AT THE WETLANDS

Wednesdays from 8:30 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Sweetwater Wetlands Park, 325 SW Williston Rd.

Third Wednesdays from 10:30 – 11 a.m.

Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo, 3000 NW 83rd St.

GAINESVILLE – Join the Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo and the Alachua County Library every 3rd Wednesday of the month for Story Time at the Zoo! Story time is held in front of the zoo on the lawn and is free for all to attend. If you’d like to visit the zoo after story time, tickets are $8 for adults; $5 for children ages 4-12, seniors over 60 and UF student and staff with Gator 1 card; and free for children 3 and under. Zoo Members and Santa Fe College students, staff and faculty with SF ID are free. sfcollege.edu/zoo

PLAYLIST AT THE POINTE

Fourth Fridays from 7 – 9 p.m.

Celebration Pointe, 5001 Celebration Pointe Ave.

GAINESVILLE – A music event that offers an eclectic mix of music from a variety of genres – country, rock, soul and more. celebrationpointe.com

GAINESVILLE – Discover the rich diversity of birds at one of north central Florida’s premier birding hotspots during a 2-3-hour guided walking tour. Join us to see why Sweetwater Wetlands Park is the most popular birding destination in the Gainesville area. Walks are free with park admission fee ($5/vehicle) and are offered every Wednesday morning from September 1st though the end of May. alachuaaudubon.org

LIVE JAZZ AT COVEY KITCHEN + COCKTAILS

Wednesdays and Sundays from 6 – 8 p.m. Covey Kitchen + Cocktails, 1514 SW 14th St.

GAINESVILLE – Enjoy the live music while dining or enjoying hand-crafted cocktails. Dining reservations can be made through OpenTable. “The Oak Trio” includes pianist Howard Wapner, upright bassist Rafael Abdalla from Brazil and drummer Eddie Fields from Daytona Beach with occasional guest appearances, creating an even more memorable evening. hoteleleo.com/dining

HIGH SPRINGS FARMERS MARKET

Fridays from 3 – 7 p.m.

23517 NW 185th Road

HIGH SPRINGS – Florida grown fruit, vegetables, dairy and meats as well as honey, handmade treats and more. The Farmers Market is produced by The City of High Springs. highsprings.gov/farmers

PARKRUN 5K AT DEPOT PARK

Saturdays at 7:30 a.m.

Depot Park, 200 SE Depot Ave.

GAINESVILLE – Parkrun is a free, weekly, timed 5K at Depot Park. Participants can walk, jog or run. The community is encouraged to get active at their fitness and ability level. Parkrun is a global movement that started in the UK and quickly spread across the world. Every Saturday over 1,700 events occur with more than 150,000 participants globally. parkrun.us/depotpark

ALACHUA COUNTY FARMERS’ MARKET

Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. 5920 NW 13th St.

GAINESVILLE – Don’t forget to bring shopping bags, your grocery list, and plenty of small bills. This market prides itself on being a grower’s only market – meaning the vendors selling produce, plants and other products must have grown the items themselves. 441market.com

HAILE FARMERS MARKET

Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Haile Plantation Village

GAINESVILLE – Take a stroll down the tree-lined streets of the Haile Village Center to browse for groceries, prepared food and handmade gifts then continue on for more shopping or brunching at the Village Center’s locally-owned shows and restaurants. hailefarmersmarket.com

FREE YOGA AT THE PLAZA

Mondays and Wednesdays 9:30 – 10:30 a.m.

Tuesdays and Thursdays 7:30 – 8:30 p.m. Bo Diddley Plaza, 111 E University Ave.

GAINESVILLE – Free weekday morning and evening yoga instruction at Bo Diddley Plaza. Please bring supplies including a yoga mat and water. gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory

ONE LOVE MARKET

Tuesdays from 4 – 7 p.m. Magnolia Parke, 4989 NW 40th Pl.

GAINESVILLE - Our Farmers Market is the perfect place to connect with your community and support local vendors all while picking up all your favorite fresh and handmade goods. Whether you’re looking for seasonal produce, high-quality meats, or just some delicious treats, we’ve got something for everyone! onelovecafegainesville.com

STITCH & CHAT

Fridays from 10 a.m. – 3:45 p.m.

Alachua Branch Library, 14913 NW 140 St.

ALACHUA – Throw some supplies in a bag and come stitch with us. If you are into needlework – sewing, embroidery, cross-stitch, knitting, and/or crocheting – you are welcome. Hang out and chat while you work on your current project or start a new one. You will get to meet like-minded people and end up trading tips, advice, or ideas. We are welcoming to anyone who wants to learn a new skill. We offer advice and a sewing machine you can use. attend.aclib.us/events

DRAG BINGO

Last Thursdays from 7:30 – 9:30 p.m.

First Magnitude Brewing Company, 1220 SE Veitch St.

GAINESVILLE – Grab your friends and enjoy a game of bingo fit for a Qween with Drag Bingo in the Beer Garden. The Pride Center of North Central Florida will be selling bingo cards ($2 each of 3 for $5) and you’ll have the opportunity to win some awesome prizes and have the best time! Bingo will run from 7:00-9:00 pm in the beer garden featuring a special drag performance from our queen Emma Gration plus some special guests towards the end of the night.Arrive early to get a table and to get settled. fmbrewing.com/fmevents

SWING DANCING AT ROSA B. WILLIAMS CENTER

Thursdays from 7:30 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.

Rosa B. Williams Center, 524 NW 1st St

GAINESVILLE – Join Gainesville Swing Dancing for free swing dancing every Thursday in a beautiful, air-conditioned, historic dance hall with hardwood floors. Join us for an evening filled with music and dancing in a welcoming and inclusive environment. No partner or experience needed! gainesvilleswingdancing.square.site

ART WALK NIGHT

Last Fridays from 6 – 9 p.m. First Magnitude Brewing Company, 1220 SE Veitch St.

GAINESVILLE – First Magnitude Brewing Company brings back Art Walk nights –a curated gathering of local artists and makers, live music, food trucks, and that unmistakable Gainesville energy. Join the last Friday of the month as part of Gainesville’s self-guided art experience and celebrate the return of one of their favorite ways to support local creativity. Enjoy a rotation of food trucks every week, as well as live acoustic music. fmbrewing.com/fmevents

Please note that the event dates and details are subject to change. It is recommended to check the official event websites or contact the organizers for the most up-to-date information.

Get Full At The Bull — Bienvenido! Welcome! We are a family owned and family friendly business. We have been serving our guests high quality fresh food for over 28 years. We welcome our guests with our Award Winning Salsa and warm homemade chips, add some fresh guacamole and our homemade white queso and you have a great start to a great meal! Try our Fish Tacos, Shrimp Tacos, Fajitas, Aaron’s Overstuffed Burrito, Nachos Supreme or one of our Daily Specials, we have something everyone will enjoy! We serve Lunch 7 days a week till 4 P.M. and our Kids Meals come with a drink and dessert. Check out our menu on our website. Our outdoor patio is perfect for “Para Cenar Afuera”. So, won’t you please come join us and Get Full At The Bull! See you there!

15202 NW 147 Drive, Suite 1100, Alachua (Rolling Oaks Plaza)

Monday – Sat 11:00am – 9:00pm

The Paper Bag

Deli and Catering — Using only the freshest ingredients and serving the highest quality meats and cheeses, The Paper Bag Deli in Gainesville is quickly becoming the destination for custom prepared meals designed for people with a time sensitive schedule. Serving premium Boar’s Head meats, The Paper Bag has quick serve cold options you can grab and go from the fridge or order hot options from the counter. Have time to stay a while? You can relax on their sunny patio or at the bar-style seating and enjoy a variety of freshly baked artisan sandwiches, wraps, salads and much more. Enjoy your favorite local and domestic beers or order to go! We have many catering options for corporate, schools, and private parties. Call ahead to pick you order today!

Tower Road Location- 209 NW 75th Street, Suite 30

Downtown Location- 11 SE 1st Ave

Open Monday - Friday 10am - 6 pm

Pepperoni’s Pizzeria

19975 NW 244 Street, High Springs (located in Mills Plaza)

Monday- Sunday: 11:00am - 9pm

Pizzeria — Since its establishment in 2000, Pepperoni’s Pizzeria has been serving up some of the best pizzas, calzones, entrees, wings and salads in town using premium mozzarella and other top ingredients. We also have great lunch specials starting at only $6.99. All of our specialty pizzas are loaded with toppings. Pepperoni’s is locally owned and operated and is proud to serve the High Springs Community and surrounding areas. We are located on U.S. Highway 441 in Mills Plaza. 386-454-3858  PepperonisPizzeria.com ORDER PICK UP

Pomodoro Cafe

AUTHENTIC ITALIAN CUISINE — Pomodoro Café blends friendly Italian convivialità with our cibo di casa (homemade) tradition in a warm, trattoria-style atmosphere. Every dish is cooked to order with fresh local ingredients. Watch our gourmet pizza dough get hand-tossed before it hits the stone oven, then savor guest favorites like Mamma’s Lasagna, Chicken Parmigiana, and the Frutti di Mare seafood combo. Don’t miss our fresh-baked focaccia with secret dipping sauce, plus an exceptional wine list and ice-cold draft and bottled beers. Join us in the dining room, relax on the all-season patio, or grab a made-today special to go. Check out our website for daily and weekly specials!

9200 NW 39th Ave #100, Gainesville, FL 32606

Sunday - Thursday: 11AM - 9PM

Friday- Saturday: 11AM - 10PM

(352) 380-9886

Mi Apá Latin Café

Cuban — When it comes to authentic Cuban cooking, you cannot go wrong with Mi Apá Latin Cafe. Featuring authentic ingredients and classic Cuban recipes, such as Pollo Asado, Croquetas de Jamon, and the best Cuban sandwiches in Alachua County. With three locations, you’re never far from the best Cuban coffee and Cuban pastries. Visit us for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, seven days a week. Whether you’re dining in, driving through, or picking up your online order, your food will always be hot, fresh, and full of Latin flavor! And don’t forget our daily Happy Hour with half-off iced coffee and Kids Eat Free every Wednesday from 4:00-9:00pm

Alachua – 15634 US Highway 441 (386-418-0838)

Gainesville - 114 SW 34th ST (352-376-7020) Jonesville - 14209 W Newberry RD NOW OPEN! (352-545-4430)

Northwest Grille

Amazing Fresh Dining — Chef Chris Fennell has been serving up fresh seafood, steaks, pasta, and yes, mouthwatering burgers since 1996.

Northwest Grille is a hidden gem offering up amazing lunch specials that will keep you coming back daily, as well as Scallop Provencal Pasta, Mushroom Napoleon, New York Strip and AUCE Alaskan Pollack. They also have gluten free and vegan options. Let us not forget their Weekend Brunch menu from 10am - 3pm serving freshly made omelets, decadent French toast and for the big appetites The Byron Tank Buster. With a full liquor bar, with the Award Winning Ultimate Bloody Mary, specially selected wines, and local brewed beer.

5115 NW 39th Ave

Monday - Thursday: 11am- 9pm

Friday: 11am - 9:30pm

Saturday: 10am - 9:30pm • Sunday: 10am - 9pm

One Love Café

Patio Dining and Live Music — One Love Café is located in the heart of Magnolia Park Plaza in NW Gainesville. This outdoor patio café is a home to musicians, artists, local vendors and the Gainesville community. Find fresh, local American cuisine featuring handhelds, burgers, salads, drinks, and curated specials in a unique park setting. Hosting live music, brunch on weekends, and numerous community events throughout the year. One Love Café is dedicated to welcome everyone regardless of nationality, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, expression, creed, or belief — a place to come together as ONE community.

4989 NW 40th Place, Gainesville. Magnolia Parke

Tuesday - Friday: 11am - 9pm Saturday: 11am - 2pm + 4pm - 9pm Sunday 10am - 4pm • Closed Mondays

Bangkok Square

Authentic Thai Cuisine — Thai cuisine, blending the best elements of the freshest foods. Thai herbs; garlic, basil, ginger, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal root, chili and more, prepared with the finest blending of fish sauce, shrimp paste, and coconut milk. All of our meals are made to order and prepared on site. We specialize in vegetarian, vegan and gluten free orders. All of our foods can be prepared to your satisfaction with mild, medium, hot, or Thai hot, balanced to the four tastes: sweet, sour, salty, and slightly bitter. Meals can be prepared for take out and we cater to any event. We also have gift cards available. Save 10% off your next dining experience when a gift card is purchased.

Two Gainesville Locations: 6500 SW Archer Road & 8181 NW 38th Lane

Archer-M,W,TH, Friday 11:00am-3:00pm • Saturday-Sunday 12:00pm-3:00pm 38th Ln.-T,W,TH, Friday 11:00am-3:00pm • Saturday-Sunday 12:00pm-3:00pm Dinner: Sunday-Thursday 5:00pm-9:30pm • Friday-Saturday 5:00pm-10:00pm

Dave and Busters

Where fun is had by all — Discover the ultimate destination for sports enthusiasts, foodies, and arcade aficionados - Dave and Buster’s! entertainment hub offers an unrivaled experience that caters to a diverse range of interests. Whether you’re in search of an exceptional sports bar near you, a delightful restaurant, or simply looking for fun-filled family entertainment like our huge arcade, D&B has it all!

We have everything to create the ultimate fun. Take a ride on our Human Crane Machine or recreate your childhood on our Hungry Hippo ride. We even host Corporate Parties, Birthday Parties and Girls Night Out. Contact our Event Planner to schedule your next adventure.

3023 SW 45th St. (Celebration Pointe)

Sun - Tue: 11:00 AM - Midnight

Wed - Fri: 11:00 AM - 01:00 AM Sat: 11:00 AM - 02:00 AM

352-448-2900  daveandbusters.com

Cilantro Tacos

Cali-Mex Street Food — This family-owned restaurant that was founded through a passion for great food and hosting dinner parties with friends. Originally from Southern California, their love for Mexican food moved to the wonderful community of Newberry in 2013. They take pride in the quality, freshness, and vibrant flavors of their food — with meats that are never frozen and everything prepared fresh and made-to-order. Enjoy the tastefully marinated meats and savor the mild, spicy, and mouthwatering salsas that are created from scratch. They feel their purpose is to spread happiness, make contributions to the community and create lasting memories of fun, laughter, and great times. When you eat with us, you’re family. So come on in!

Tioga Town Center - 12921 SW 1 Rd Suite #103 352-472-1300 Alachua - 15551 NW US HWY 441 Unit# 50 352-660-3262

Monday - Saturday from 11:00am to 9:00pm

eatcilantrotacos.com

Leonardo’s Pizza

Mouth Watering — Family friendly and locally-owned-and-operated pizza joint with a unique, nostalgic atmosphere that is as distinctive as our delicious food. Chicago-style pizzas, hand tied garlic knots, and Italian baked dinners and salad bar, we know you’ll be back for more. Come and see why Gainesville loves our signature deep dish pizza pie, the Big Leo. Since 1976 Gainesville has grown up on pizza from Leonardo’s Millhopper and we are still going strong! Our dedicated staff (many have been with us for 15-20 years) knows how important it is to treat you properly. We take great pride in our welcoming atmosphere. We can’t wait to make you part of our family.

4131 NW 16th Blvd (Millhopper)

Sunday - Thursday: 11:00am - 9:30pm

Friday - Saturday: 11:00am - 10:30pm

Seafood Dock

Seafood Party in your Mouth— Seafood Dock opened its doors in 2021 offering a cozy atmosphere and friendly service. They have an impressive lunch menu, with "boils" including two sides for under $10 and Happy Hour specials. The restaurant is known for its delicious seafood, create your own combo. From Blue Crab, Lobster, Crawfish, even Chicken Fried Rice and Fried Dumplings. Additionally, the restaurant's leftover sauce has been used creatively in ramen broth, indicating the versatility of the flavors. The service is superb, with attentive and courteous staff, and the environment is relaxing and clean. The portions are generous, and the food is fresh, hot, and delicious.

6791 W. Newberry Road (Oak Mall Plaza)

Sunday – Thursday 12pm – 10pm

Friday and Saturday 12pm – 11pm

A ONE-WAY TICKET TO SOUTHEAST ASIA AND THE COURAGE TO STOP WAITING FOR PERMISSION

Learning to Leap

I ZIPPED MY BACKPACK CLOSED AND FELT THE WEIGHT OF THE NEXT TWELVE MONTHS SETTLE ONTO MY SHOULDERS.

The months of planning, researching, and convincing my loved ones that I wasn’t completely out of my mind had all led to this moment. I stepped back and looked at the concerningly small pile of belongings I had deemed essential for a year in Southeast Asia. A familiar wave of nerves rose in my chest. My god, maybe I am crazy, I thought.

Taking a deep breath, I whispered the words that had been guiding me for months:

“Do the things that scare you.”

I didn’t arrive at that moment out of nowhere. I’ve been traveling since I could speak in full sentences, getting my first passport at just six months old. Growing up, my family often traveled to Europe to visit relatives in Denmark and Ireland. Back at home, I would volunteer to help the grocery

shop just for a peek at the latest National Geographic. Tracing my fingers on the glossy cover, I remember the insatiable curiosity for the faraway places full of distant people. The world was far bigger than I could imagine as a child, but even then, I knew I wanted a chance to see it all.

By the time I was in my final year at the University of Florida, I knew it was time to see the world on my own. I wanted, no, I needed to travel farther than ever before. Southeast Asia, vast and varied, was the opposite of the West and everything I had ever known. Just the thought of it made my blood move faster. It was the perfect place for anyone hungry for life experience. Whether it was mountain ranges, pristine beaches, or world heritage sites, I could experience it all on a budget.

With my sights set, it was time to act. I worked full-time while finishing my degree, saving every cent to fund my

STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY DELANEY STARLING

year of freedom. I sold everything that couldn’t fit in my parents’ house. The reality of the situation was becoming clearer with every piece of furniture I helped load into a stranger’s car. I was running headfirst into the complete unknown without any guarantees. While my friends were preparing for careers, I was planning my escape. Seeing my peers seek stability, I began to question the path I had been certain of since childhood. I pictured the two paths. The safe one: a full-time job, a regular paycheck, time with family and friends. The risky one: Unavoidable discomfort, missing milestones, no home to come back to after a long day. But above all, the unknown held the promise of personal evolution. I wasn’t going to let self-doubt make me miss the trip of a lifetime. I chose discomfort. I chose change.

Twelve weeks in, Asia has been exhilarating, exhausting, and everything in between. I’ve stumbled from town to town, meeting countless people, smelling, tasting, and hearing things I never knew existed. Somewhere along the way, I’ve learned a few things that reshaped how I think about fear, possibility, and the choices we allow ourselves to make.

DON’T WAIT FOR PERMISSION

When I first told my friends about my travel plans, a few of them responded with, “That’s so cool, I wish I could do that.” When I asked what was stopping them, they would always give a laundry list of reasons as to why it was simply impossible. Throughout my travels, I’ve encountered people who stopped giving excuses.

I met three female solo travelers on separate occasions who all had similar stories. They had been planning their trips east with their close friends for months, or even years. The friends kept pushing it off; there was always something more important. I remember listening to one of the travelers tell her story as we walked to a night market. Through a thick French accent, she said, “I knew that if I did not go now, I would never go.”

Maybe you have something on your bucket list you’ve been putting off, waiting for the ‘right time.’ The responsibilities will always be there. But it’s important to remember that you are the only one who can give yourself permission.

IT’S NEVER TOO LATE TO START FRESH

Southeast Asia has become a magnet for Westerners seeking a fresh start—thanks to affordability and relaxed visa requirements. Not everyone comes for the right reasons, but many come with admirable courage. I’ve met Americans of all ages—twenty-somethings, retirees, young families—who left everything behind to build new lives here. Some are seeking. Some are running. I’ve even questioned which one I am at times. But what they all share is a willingness to leap without certainty, to trust themselves without guarantees. That courage has stayed with me.

SEEK DISCOMFORT

“Leaving your comfort zone” is an overused phrase I didn’t fully understand until I tried to live it. Before this trip, I romanticized the idea of following in Anthony Bourdain’s footsteps—living simply, throwing caution to the wind, consequences be damned. But after my first month living out of a backpack, I was ready to book the next flight home. I didn’t miss the comforts; I missed the distractions. At home, I could hide behind routine. Traveling full-time has forced me to ask the bigger questions: What kind of person do I want to be? What do I actually want to create in this world? I won’t pretend I’ve reached enlightenment—I’ll leave that to the monks. But I have confronted myself in ways I never could have if I’d stayed comfortable. And in that confrontation, I’ve chosen to evolve.

I won’t advocate that everyone quit their jobs and become nomads. Full-time travel is definitely not for everyone. But I will advocate for seeking discomfort whenever possible. Do the things that scare you. When I zipped my backpack closed back in September, I thought I was preparing for a trip. What I was really preparing for was a new way of being. We only get one chance at this life. Don’t be afraid to take the leap.

“Travel isn’t always pretty. It isn’t always comfortable. Sometimes it hurts, it even breaks your heart… You take something with you. Hopefully, you leave something good behind.”

—Anthony Bourdain

TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER’S

Reading Corner

“EVENSONG” by Stewart O’Nan

C.2025 ATLANTIC MONTHLY PRESS $28.00 287 PAGES

FRIENDS DON’T LET FRIENDS DRIVE DRUNK.

That’s what the old TV message said, but friendship is much more than that. Friends don’t leave you alone when you need someone around. They keep your secrets. They bring you medicine when you’re sick, watch your house when you’re gone, and ask after your family. And in the new book “Evensong” by Stewart O’Nan, friends know you and love you anyhow.

Kitzi really didn’t want the job.

But who else would do it? Obviously, none of the other members of the Humpty Dumpty Club would take the reins after their former leader, Joan, took a tumble in her townhouse and landed in the hospital. And so, with a heavy sigh, Kitzi took over the massive color-coded files and the responsibility of checking on Joan’s friends, a pair of hoarders.

She’d been one of the charter members of the HDs, having joined the group because she liked the idea of women supporting other women from their church. With an ailing husband at home, she’d enjoyed her limited activity in the club, but now her hands were full.

Suzie wanted to do her part, so she volunteered to feed Joan’s cat. Soon, though, she decided that it’d be better if Oscar lived with her. After her divorce, and despite the animal being cantankerous, having a cat was better than an empty apartment.

Emily didn’t have time to help Kitzi with the club. A widow, she was busy with the drama that her recovering-alcoholic daughter brought to the household. Plus, her dying husband, Henry, had asked her to take care of his sister, Arlene, which was easier said than done.

Truth be known, Arlene and Emily had a love-hate relationship, with Henry as the tie between them. Emily kept an eye on her childless, never-married sister-in-law, but problems were mounting: Arlene was starting to forget things, and she got lost sometimes.

Arlene, as everyone could see, was falling apart… The first, and very important thing you’ll want to know about “Evensong” is this: it’s just plain irresistible.

With classical music and a soaring church setting as a backdrop, author Stewart O’Nan immediately draws readers into the worlds of five women who deal with the vicissitudes and realities of growing older, with humor, resignation, and without. That’s a common thread in women’s novels like this, but “Evensong” is set apart by a dark cloud that slowly and ominously descends over each of the women in the book. One character faces loss, and she sometimes seems eager to just have it over with. Another is facing loss, but a different kind, and the sadness of all of it creeps up on them, and on readers. And yet, this novel isn’t all storms and rain: it’s funny and smart, and if you have a group of friends you can count on, it’ll feel like a warm sweater.

If you want the perfect fall novel, or you get to pick the next book group book, well, this is it. Right here. “Evensong” is intoxicating.

TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER HAS BEEN READING SINCE SHE WAS 3 YEARS OLD AND SHE NEVER GOES ANYWHERE WITHOUT A BOOK. SHE LIVES WITH HER TWO DOGS AND 11,000 BOOKS. HER BOOK REVIEWS ARE PUBLISHED IN MORE THAN 200 NEWSPAPERS AND 50 MAGAZINES THROUGHOUT THE U.S. AND CANADA. bookwormsez@yahoo.com

MIND MATTERS

BUILDING HEALTHY HABITS

When Stress Speaks

WRITTEN BY CECILIA LEMUS

FROM THE MOMENT WE GET OUT OF BED, MINOR STRESSORS PUSH US TO GET MOVING, SOLVE PROBLEMS, AND STAY ALERT.

“Stress is not necessarily a bad thing. We need some stress to function day to day,” says Dr. Ana Puig, a University of Florida clinical professor, researcher, and licensed mental health counselor whose work focuses on the intersection of mental health, mindfulness, and well-being.

But there is a limit. When stress becomes acute or chronic, it affects our well-being.

“If we don’t attend to ongoing stress, we make ourselves vulnerable. Our ability to fight off disease diminishes.”

According to Dr. Puig, these forms of stress impact the body, the mind, the emotions, and even the spirit. “Chronic stress is particularly brutal. It weakens your ability to respond to life’s demands and increases feelings of anxiety and depression.”

Physically, long-term stress makes the body vulnerable to sickness. A weakened immune system leaves us more susceptible to illness. “Some people get sick because they’re stressed,” she says. “Their bodies force them to stop because they haven’t given themselves permission to take a break.”

Emotionally, stress pushes people into fight, flight, freeze, or even fawn, a lesser-known stress response in which people-pleasing helps regain a sense of control when feeling overwhelmed. Another subtle yet profound way stress affects us is through its impact on our interactions. “Stress affects our sense of self and our relationships. When we’re under severe stress, our relationships are often the first to suffer.”

Catastrophic events like losing a loved one can create sudden, overwhelming stress. But Dr. Puig warns that the real danger lies in everyday stress that goes unattended. “Day-to-day stress builds up silently,” she says. Over time, it becomes toxic.

When faced with overwhelm, most people fall into familiar coping patterns, many of them unhelpful. “People might overeat, drink too much coffee, turn to fast food, or go out drinking after work,” she says. “There’s no judgment; everyone has their coping mechanisms, but when those behaviors become habits, they backfire.” These responses may offer temporary relief, but in the long term, they affect sleep, mood, cognitive function, and overall well-being.

“Escapist behaviors help us avoid discomfort temporarily,” she explains, “but in the long run they hurt you.”

to be sick to care for ourselves,” she emphasizes. “We need mental health days before our bodies force us to take them.”

This awareness becomes the bridge to healthier coping strategies and developing resilience.

Stress may be unavoidable, but it doesn’t have to be destructive. Dr. Puig explains that the most potent form of prevention is intentional daily habits.

“If wellness is part of your daily routine, you protect yourself,” she says. That means forming habits that actively support physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

Stress also affects identity and self-esteem. It distorts how people see themselves and influences how they relate to the world. “It can make you reactive, prickly, or easily triggered,” Dr. Puig says. “It changes the way we respond to people we care about.”

The key is recognizing stress early rather than waiting until physical breakdown forces a pause. “We don’t have to wait

Small practices like mindfulness, breathing exercises, quiet moments, or nutritious routines help ground us. “Ask yourself: What do I do each day that supports my wellness?” The environment is a crucial part of this equation. A person’s home, workspace, or daily surroundings can either soothe the nervous system or contribute to overwhelm.

“Curate your space intentionally,” she advises. “Your

environment should support you physically, mentally, and emotionally.” A calming environment helps people respond to stress in ways that are helpful rather than harmful.

Wellbeing, she emphasizes, is not an emergency tool; it’s a lifestyle. “You want to be able to handle stressful events because you’ve built a foundation that supports you.”

Navigating life with these handles can help us alleviate destructive patterns. Dr. Puig’s message is clear: We can’t eliminate stress, but we can learn to live differently with it. Through small choices, healthier habits, and intentional environments, we give ourselves the tools to live with more acceptance, stability, and peace.

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Courtney Bailey, Breast cancer survivor

A designation from the National Cancer Institute places the UF Health Cancer Center among the nation’s top cancer programs. This distinction means patients like Courtney have access to breakthrough research and leading-edge treatments.

“As an event planner, I love to make people smile. When I was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer, the physicians at UF Health treated me like I was special. They worked as a team to create a treatment plan just for me and held my hand through a difficult journey. Now, I’m back, and I’m the one smiling.”

Visit UFHealth.org/Cancer to learn more about our NCI designation.