Bella Magazine August 2026

Set sail toward your next great adventure where every destination has a story to tell

Find the perfect pick for wherever summer takes you on Page 18.

from the publisher

I am one of those people who loves to travel. I love exploring new places, and I love returning to a familiar favorite. The budget doesn’t always allow for an international, exotic location, so it’s a good thing we have a lot of beautiful and fun places nearby.

I also love a variety of places. I love the coast, and I love the mountains; I love wide-open oceans and narrow, white-water rivers; I love green, rolling hills and rocky inclines. I do love the energy and vibe of big cities, but I can only take three to four days of that before my nervous system gets overwhelmed!

Vacations can give us gorgeous sunsets, delicious food and camera rolls full of memories — but they also do wonders for our health. That’s right: travel isn’t just good for your Instagram feed; it’s good for your mind, body and soul, which means making sure you put the phone or camera down and fully immerse yourself in the experience.

Let’s start with the positive impacts on stress. The moment you swap your inbox for an ocean view or a bustling city street, your brain gets a much-needed break from the daily grind. Exploring somewhere new encourages you to be present, curious and open to new experiences. It’s basically mindfulness — with better scenery.

Travel also keeps you moving. Whether you’re wandering through charming villages, hiking scenic trails or walking your way through every borough in New York City, you’re naturally more active without it feeling like a workout. Who needs another hour on the treadmill when you’ve already walked 15,000 steps hunting for the best gelato in town?

Of course, every fabulous adventure deserves a little self-care, as we discuss in our healthy travel tips story on Page 26. Staying hydrated is nonnegotiable, especially during flights. Pack a reusable water bottle, wear comfy shoes that love your feet as much as you do and don’t skip meals just because you’re busy sightseeing. Healthy snacks like nuts, fruit or protein bars can save you from making questionable airport food decisions. Sleep matters too, even when you’re tempted to squeeze every last second out of your getaway. A well-rested traveler enjoys every moment more — and is far less likely to return home needing a vacation from their vacation.

And here’s your permission slip to indulge. Try the local pastries. Order dessert. Sample the street food. Balance is the secret ingredient. Enjoy the treats, then fuel up with fresh fruits, vegetables and local specialties that nourish your body while satisfying your taste buds.

Personally, I think the best souvenir isn’t something you buy — it’s how travel changes you. Every trip builds confidence, broadens your perspective and reminds you that the world is wonderfully bigger than your daily routine.

In this month’s issue, we have travel articles from nearby getaways to Vegas to the British Virgin Islands. There is definitely something for everyone and for every budget.

So grab your suitcase, book the flight (or gas up the car) and embrace your next adventure. Because life’s too short to stay in one place — and your well-being deserves a passport full of stamps.

— Kelly MacLeod

meet the team

Liz Biggs, writer/columnist

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

Colette Boehm, writer

Colette Boehm is a freelance writer and photographer and a native of coastal Alabama. She specializes in telling compelling stories of the people and places she encounters and also provides effective travel-related content and photography to a variety of clients, including destinations and marketing firms.

Gina Dickinson, advertising

Gina is a sales and marketing professional with a background in design and digital media. She specializes in building relationships, identifying opportunities and developing solutions. She helps clients achieve their goals through creative problem-solving and exceptional customer service. Her ability to lead teams, coordinate projects and deliver results makes her a trusted partner for long-term success.

Courtney Hays, administrator/assistant editor

Courtney Hays, a West Virginia native, made Navarre her home in 2020 after purchasing her grandmother’s house. A former English teacher for eight years, she now enjoys her work with Bella Magazine. Newly married, Courtney loves traveling, practicing yoga, listening to podcasts and hosting game nights with friends.

Kristin Holifield Cagle, advertising

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

Sharla Gorder, writer/columnist

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

Jennifer Harrison, advertising

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

Allison McCrory, writer/fashion stylist

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

Elizabeth Meyer, designer

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

Chelsea Owens, writer

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

Cynthia Reeves, writer

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

Justine Williams Roper, writer

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

Leslie Peck, writer/beauty expert

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

Sonshine, writer

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

Toni Sparks, photographer

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

Kate Treick, photographer

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

Teresa Torres Zwierzchowski, social media

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

inside this issue

WORTH THE TRIP

Gulf County, Florida Page22

COVER STORY

British Virgin Islands Page 28

08 SPEND OR SAVE

10 FASHION: Sun, sea and style

18 GIFT GUIDE

20 WORTH THE TRIP: Telluride Trippin’

26 BODY AND SOUL: Travel well

40 WORTH THE TRIP: Covington, Lousiana

44 WORTH THE TRIP: Vegas, baby!

48 OUT & ABOUT: FavorHouse Round-Up

52 OUT & ABOUT: The Landing

LOCAL FARE Conner’s Adventure Page 38

54 OUT & ABOUT: Pensacola Chamber Business After Hours

58 OUT & ABOUT: Unique Boutique ribbon cutting

60 OUT & ABOUT: Juneteenth

64 HER PERSPECTIVE: Shut up, amygdala, you’re fine

66 HER PERSPECTIVE: Eighteen summers — make them count

Talk About It Tuesday on

Sonshine’s Corner

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

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

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

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

Let’s talk about it.

The place to be inspired,informed & uplifted

BY CHELSEA OWENS / BELLAMAGAZINE.COM / PHOTOS

spendorsave

• Dolce & Gabbana women’s yellow midi dress, $2,051, lyst.com

• Leather Medium Blaike Bucket Bag, $375, ralphlauren.com

• Prada Symbole sunglasses, $525, prada.com

• Sleeveless open-back dress, $39.99, hm.com

• Small drawstring pouch bag, $34.99, oldnavy.com

• Women’s plastic oval sunglasses, $15, target.com

where to shop

Cordova Mall: H&M and Old Navy: Cordova Mall, 5100 N. Ninth Ave., Pensacola; 855-466-7467; hm.com; oldnavy.com

Target: multiple area locations; target.com

fashion

Sun, Sea & Style

From fish motifs to fresh produce hues, Pensacola boutiques are dishing up the season’s boldest looks

By Allison McCrory / Photos by Kate Treick Photography

Is it a style report or a Mediterranean diet?

Summer fashion is serving up fish and produce as well as bright poppy and yellow with an assortment of greens.

“You’ve got your fruits and vegetables,” said Laura Belsinger of Bluetique on Palafox Place in downtown Pensacola. “You’ve also got your fish. There’s a lot of that both in jewelry and also in clothes.”

“Lots and lots of yellow” as well as “a lot of poppy red” are traipsing the summer runways. Red, white and blue, especially sky blue, pay homage to the nation’s 250th. Greens of all shades are trending. Brown, once a fall and winter color, is carrying over to warmer months in lighter shades like sand and cafe.

Flowy skirts — easy and cool when paired with a tee — are flying off shelves. And women are in love with matching sets.

When packing for summer travel, consider lines like Jude Connally’s Travel Collection. The signature “Jude cloth” travels with minimal wrinkles and can dry in less than an hour.

In the spirit of summer’s bold, bright fashion, the dainty, delicate jewelry popular for many seasons is being edged out by statement jewelry in bright colors — often with a coastal influence, noted Belsinger.

“It’s a bigger, bolder look!”

Shopping list: This maxi dress in

by

is the perfect piece for travel! It resists packing wrinkles and will dry in 45 minutes if a wash in a hotel sink is in order.

Shopping list: News flash! Lighter shades of brown are now officially summer hues. This classy, understated set in cafe travels comfortably and beautifully and can transition to the boardroom with a change of accessories. Sundays jacket, $198, and jogger, $186.

Shopping list: Looking for a romantic, flowy statement dress in one of the season’s favorite hues? Check out this party-worthy dress in butter by Amanda Uprichard, $365.

Clothes

Compliments of Bluetique 125 Palafox Pl., Pensacola 850-432-1264; bluetiquepensacola.com

Hair & Makeup

compliments of Natalie Allen: IG: palmesalon

Palme Salon

119 E. Nine Mile Rd., Pensacola 808-391-9826: palmesalon.com

About the Venue

Celestine Bed and Breakfast

514 N. Baylen St., Pensacola 850-426-4032; celestinebedandbreakfast.com

Model compliments of Izon Models & Talent LLC

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

Brenda Hamilton

“Lucky for me my work feels like a hobby,” said August model Brenda Hamilton.

The California native teaches dance at UWF and operates a private performing arts studio instructing voice, acting, acting for the camera and dance. She recently became a dancewear retailer via her website and created a full-length album, “Getaway,” available on streaming services.

“I love to make and create and love having new choreographic projects to work on,” said Hamilton, who, among other ventures, performed as a Radio City Rockette and toured with “Wicked.”

As part of that tour, Hamilton and her co-performer husband spent two months in Hawaii.

“We would snorkel in the morning and go do the show at night. It was a once-in-alifetime experience to both work and play in paradise.”

Sunset walks on the beach with family are Hamilton’s favorite way to enjoy the Gulf Coast. Dream trip? Definitely exploring Italy!

stylingthe shoot

Where to shop: Bluetique

GIFT GUIDE

The days are still long and golden, but there’s a shift in the air — summer is winding down, and a new season of gathering, giving and celebrating is on its way. Whatever the occasion — a birthday, a thank-you, a just-because — there’s something special about a gift found close to home. Let this guide inspire you with the local boutiques and specialty shops that give Pensacola its unmistakable charm — and discover the perfect something for everyone on your list.

Step into beauty at downtown Pensacola’s favorite boutique. From vintage furniture to hand-painted finds, discover curated home decor and gifts in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

WHIMSICAL & INSPIRATIONAL

• The best kept secret in Pensacola for gifts

• Featuring local artists Just look for the bubbles! 1208 N. 12th Ave,. Pensacola 850-435-9555 AngelsGarden angelsgardenpensacola

worth the trip

Telluride trippin’

Story and photos by Leslie Peck

In June, I had the pleasure of traveling to Colorado with a wonderful group of 10 Pensacola women. This trip was originally planned to attend the Telluride Yoga Festival and evolved into oh, so much more. I had only ever been to Colorado in the winter to ski, and seeing it in all of its summer glory with these friends was absolutely breathtaking.

Addie Murdoch was our fearless leader, host, road-trip captain and remarkable event planner. She curated a dream trip for all of us to see the best of Aspen, Snowmass, Telluride and Palisade.

Spending a week road trippin’ with a strong group of women who are all in different stages of life was soup for the soul. Some are grieving loss, tending to aging parents, running their own businesses, raising kids, navigating life in so many ways, and somehow, we all managed to break away, enjoy each other, laugh, fill our bellies, downward dog, sleep, shop and, most of all, enjoy nature.

ASPEN AND SNOWMASS

We began our adventure with a dinner that can only be described as a true work of art at Bosq, a Michelin-starred restaurant in Aspen. Bosq’s Chef Barclay has ties to the Panhandle, and he is known for foraging a lot of his ingredients, including baby pine cones that he candies. What an experience!

We began the first morning with a sound bath among the trees, birds and sky. If you have never experienced a sound bath surrounded by nature, I highly recommend it.

One of the highlights of the trip was the Snowmass Rodeo. This was patriotic, smalltown America at its finest. The excitement in the air was contagious as cowboys and cowgirls showed off their roping and bullriding skills. The best was the kids’ mutton busting, where young children ride sheep in their own small rodeo event. What a sight!

We also visited a working ranch called Sustainable Settings. The ranch is run by Brook and Rose Levan. Rose lived in the Panhandle while her father was stationed in the Navy. It was such a treat to experience

how the farm works, feed a baby cow, drink fresh milk and enjoy homemade ice cream. The ice cream was made by another local, Carly Signor, who works and lives on the farm. Many of the top local restaurants use produce and milk from this farm.

Snowmass and Aspen have a rustic charm, beautiful views, wonderful restaurants, and we even got to see a bear! We can all see why our host calls this wonderful community her second home.

TELLURIDE

When we arrived at the Telluride Yoga Festival, we were warmly greeted and quickly settled into our condos, which were within walking distance of the festival. There is definitely something for everyone at this event. Yoga classes for all levels, meditation, sound baths, hiking (the elevation is no joke, but I did it!), education and more.

Mountain Village was so quaint, with lots of food and shopping. You can then jump on the free gondola and go up and over the mountain into Telluride, where you can wander around all day. There is so much to see and do, and I know I will be back. The mountains are incredible.

PALISADE

As we road-tripped back to Snowmass, we made a pit stop overnight in the town of Palisade. We began at Sage Creations Farm, where we frolicked in lavender fields and flowers and also picked some to bring home. There were many terrific lavender goodies to shop for at the farm, too.

Next, we stopped at a local vineyard for a glass of vino and live music. Then, we finished the day at Pêche Restaurant, which means “peach” in French. Fresh peaches from local farms are incorporated into many dishes on the menu. This was one of our favorite dinners of the trip.

The next morning, we strolled through the local farmers market and shops. I could have spent all day there. We then had lunch at Fidel’s Cocina & Bar and finished the last leg of our trip.

If you are ever in that neck of the woods, stop and enjoy all that Palisade has to offer.

Opposite Page: Friends Addie Murdoch, Kristin Bouchard, Kristina Gormley, Donna Dickie, Jennifer Walden, Rina Thoma, Stephanie Knight, Sandi Dixon, Kim Moss, Tara Dolister, and Leslie Peck adventured through the Colorado Mountains. From feeding calves to taking in the breathtaking scenery, it was a trip to remember.

worth the trip

Gulf County, Florida

Beach time is only the beginning

Story and Photos by Colette Boehm

Gulf County, Florida, is known for its low-rise vibe and beautiful beaches and as a place to enjoy simple pleasures. The drive from Pensacola is just over three hours and is definitely worth the trip.

This destination is made up of coastal communities that each have a personality and attraction all their own. With less traffic and a slower pace than most Gulf Coast beaches, it’s easy to get around and to find the perfect locations to make your vacation feel just right.

Beachgoers love St. Joe Beach. This is the westernmost Gulf County beach and is popular with sun worshipers, as it is the perfect spot to spend a day, with its easy access to both beautiful sand beaches and nearby restaurants. This west-facing beach is also the perfect spot for taking in a magnificent sunset any time of year. WindMark Beach is close by and has paved walking and biking trails along the water for those who want to get in some exercise.

Port St. Joe is at the heart of Gulf County and is a hub of activity. The waterfront is marked by a lovely park with green space and water access. Local charter captains depart from here and the area’s iconic lighthouse is open to the public.

The Cape San Blas Lighthouse was built more than 130 years ago and was moved to this spot on the bay in 2014. Visitors can climb the lighthouse and visit the small museum on-site.

Just a couple blocks away is Reid Avenue, home to Port St. Joe’s quaint shopping district. Most of the stores are locally owned specialty shops with lots of personality and fun finds.

For those who want to get on the water, St. Joeseph Bay offers easy access and lots of choices. Whether kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling or swimming, this is a popular area for family excursions. There are kayak and SUP rentals and even guided tours for those who want to soak up the knowledge of the locals. Snorkeling the shallow waters is popular, too.

As summer leads into fall, scalloping may be the most popular way to enjoy the bay and its spoils. Two things to note for those first-timers who want to give scalloping a try. First, a saltwater fishing license is required. Second, St. Joseph Bay’s shallow waters are home to fragile seagrasses. These are often called the “nursery” for young shrimp, fish and scallops, so it’s crucial to avoid damaging this important

part of the marine ecosystem.

Gulf seafood is featured at many area restaurants and none is more famous than Indian Pass Raw Bar. It’s been a staple here for decades and its casual atmosphere is the perfect match for this destination. Patrons come in, mark the check boxes on the menu and help themselves to beverages while they wait for fresh seafood to arrive at the table.

There are plenty of other places to find tasty and fresh seafood here, but this one is iconic. For dining with a view, two excellent new options are the upscale White Marlin & Oysterette and the casual Hunt’s Oyster Bar on St. Joe Bay.

Gulf County is also home to an experience that can only be had on this stretch of the Florida panhandle: a horseback beach ride. Guided rides are offered on Cape San Blas and the easygoing stroll is appropriate for families as well as adults. No riding experience is needed. The late afternoon rides offer a unique way to enjoy that wonderful golden hour on the beach.

The rides usually begin near Salinas Park in Cape San Blas. Beyond the park, the road continues along the St. Joseph Peninsula, which has sandy white beaches and tall dunes, along with a wealth of beach houses for rent. At the far end of the peninsula is the beautiful T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park. The park and the beaches here are consistently ranked among the best in the state. The beautiful beaches are the star of the show here, but many come for birding, hiking and biking, too.

During sea turtle nesting season, May through October each year, Gulf County is known for its commitment to protecting threatened and endangered mama sea turtles that come ashore at night to lay their eggs. Each morning at sunrise the dedicated volunteers of the St. Joseph Peninsula Turtle Patrol walk the beaches to search for nests in order to mark and protect them from predators. Anyone interested in learning more about the turtles and local conservation efforts will enjoy a visit to the Forgotten Coast Sea Turtle Center in Port St. Joe.

It’s easy to love Gulf County. It has retained a laid-back beach town atmosphere while actually offering an amazing variety of experiences that appeal to visitors with different interests. The common factor is a slow pace and an appreciation for the beaches and other coastal resources that make this destination so special.

body & soul

Travel well

By Allison McCrory

When traveling this summer and fall, common sense may be your best medicine, according to Baptist Health Care Nurse Practitioner Megan Carpenter.

“The most overlooked factors in travel health are hydration, rest and moderation. Over-scheduling, excess alcohol and poor sleep often contribute just as much to illness as germs do. Listen to your body — if you feel run down, build in recovery time,” said Carpenter, who practices at Baptist’s Airport location. “Prevention is always easier than treating an illness away from home.”

Respiratory infections from airplane exposure and crowded spaces, dehydration, travelers’ diarrhea from contaminated food or water, motion sickness and sunburn and heat exhaustion are the most common travel-related ailments popping up in Carpenter’s clinic.

International travelers might consider preparing the gut microbiome for invading bacteria, new foods and a disrupted schedule by taking a regimen of probiotics before, during and after

travel. Strict hand hygiene and avoiding touching the face are also good ideas, advised Carpenter.

“Exposure to unfamiliar pathogens can increase the risk of illness, particularly in different regions or countries,” she said.

While the weeks and days prior to travel are often busy, be sure to optimize sleep, exercise and hydration to strengthen the immune system. Ensure vaccinations are up to date and check destination-specific vaccine requirements and Centers for Disease Control travel recommendations.

If the getaway includes air travel, hydrate well to counter dry airplane cabins, move every hour or two to

minimize blood clot risk and consider compression socks. Keep hand sanitizer handy and apply it frequently, especially after touching shared surfaces. Wear a mask for extra protection.

Hitting the open road? Take breaks every two to three hours to stretch and walk. Avoid excess fast food by packing healthy snacks such as nuts, fruit and protein bars as well as filtered water.

Maintain good posture to prevent back and neck strain.

If traveling with children, keep a consistent sleep and meal schedule as much as possible, pack familiar snacks to avoid sudden dietary changes, wash hands frequently and hydrate — a lot!

“Dehydration happens quickly in kids,” Carpenter noted.

MEGAN

CARPENTER’S TIPS FOR STAYING HEALTHY ON THE GO

• Wash hands frequently or use sanitizer

• Drink only safe, clean water

• Eat foods that are well-cooked and served hot

• Look for foods and drinks in sealed containers

• Stay hydrated (especially in warm climates or on flights)

• Use sunscreen and pace outdoor activity

Avoid During International Travel

• Tap water (unless confirmed safe)

• Ice cubes in high-risk areas

• Raw or undercooked meat/seafood

• Unwashed fruits/ vegetables

Packable Health Kit Essentials

• Hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes

• Basic first-aid supplies (bandages, antiseptic)

• Pain relievers/fever reducers (acetaminophen or ibuprofen)

• Anti-diarrheal medication

• Oral rehydration salts or electrolyte packets

• Motion sickness medication if needed

• Prescription medications (plus extras)

• Thermometer

• Sunscreen and insect repellent

Women Making Waves in Perdido Key

AUGUST 14, 2026

This page: Sail into Cooper Island Beach Club in the British Virgin Islands for a morning or afternoon visit. With a coffee shop, brewery, gorgeous open-air bar/restaurant and more, it’s a great place to sit and enjoy the island breeze and views. Opposite: It’s easy to catch sight of a rainbow in the BVI. This one’s over Jost Van Dyke.

cover story

Tips and tales for GLORIOUS SAILS

A few years ago, I shared in Bella the story of my first sailing trip around the British Virgin Islands with friends. Back then, I was so nervous about being aboard a sailboat for a week — I get seasick, and I’m not adventurous at all. But the boat, the friends and the gorgeous scenery made me a convert, and this year we decided to go again.

With the nerves gone and new adventures to uncover, I had another fantastic trip, and I wanted to come back to share some details in case you want to try it, too.

LOGISTICS

Planning ahead for several months is helpful to ensure smooth sailing. We used The Moorings (moorings.com) to charter a bareboat sailing catamaran. For three couples, we chose a 50-foot Moorings 5000 four-cabin vessel (with our own separate cabins with en-suite baths), a spacious interior saloon with a fully stocked kitchen and an upper deck with a seating area. We didn’t need to hire a captain because our friend is already an experienced sailor, but The Moorings does offer skipper/chef packages. This boat has Wi-Fi, air conditioning and a nice sound system.

You can order food, wine, liquor and other sundries ahead of time from a Rite Way grocery store near the marina. We planned to make and eat a simple breakfast and lunch on board, while enjoying dinner out each evening. All provisions are delivered directly to your boat on launch day. Be ready for creative substitutions from the shoppers, though!

We booked flights from Pensacola to Miami to Tortola, as well as an airport transfer to The Moorings Yacht Club. Arriving on a Friday, we reserved hotel rooms at The Moorings for that evening. There’s a chart briefing for captains to learn about current conditions, and the property has restaurants, a spa, a pool and shops to enjoy for a relaxing afternoon and evening before you set sail.

Necker Island Nature Tour, clockwise from top left: A red-ruffed lemur holds a hand while saying hello. Sailing friends Tom and Wei Ueberschaer, Michele and Mike Werner, and Shane and Lisa Player enjoy one of Necker’s beachside bar and lounge spaces. The view from the uppermost lookout deck on the island. Some of Necker’s spectacular species, including pink flamingos, kangaroos and a giant tortoise.

The restaurant experience in the BVI is meant to be relaxed and unhurried. And it is. Get ready for “island time,” and don’t arrive at any restaurant starving.

While we tentatively planned our route, we left some flexibility based on sailing conditions and our own whims. One thing I loved on both BVI trips was a scheduled midweek stop at Scrub Island, where you can dock in a slip (reserve ahead), enjoy the pools, shops and restaurants, and take advantage of their showers. As much fun as it is to live on a sailboat for a week, showering with a tiny handheld showerhead that starts and stops to conserve fresh water can be a challenge.

HIGHLIGHTS

Necker Island Nature Tour: We booked this tour, which is often sold out, months in advance. It was the favorite part of the trip for all of us, and I highly recommend it. Necker Island is billionaire Richard Branson’s private retreat, where he has also built a luxury resort and a wildlife sanctuary. The nature tours are meant as an educational journey through the island’s gorgeous animal habitats, built to preserve some of the world’s most beautiful and endangered species.

Upon arrival, we were greeted by one of the wildlife sanctuary’s longtime caretakers. He explained that the original tour company we booked with was no longer managing the tours, and he would be doing ours himself. Thus began our three-hour-plus behind-the-scenes exploration of animals, residential and resort spaces.

It was a magical day and included personal encounters with lemurs, giant tortoises, flamingos and red ibis, kangaroos and parrots, as well as stops for drinks in some of the island’s many luxury, open-air bar spaces. We even trekked up many flights to the highest lookout on the island, with a driving mat on the way up for hitting biodegradable fish-food golf balls into the water.

To request this tour, email Vaman. Ramlall@virginlimitededition.com

Jost Van Dyke ATV tour: This was truly a thrilling, memorable experience — for the brave at heart!

We reserved three four-wheeled ATVs from Salt Life Adventures (saltlifeadventuresports.com) for an island tour over rough terrain. Our tour was just over two hours, and it was filled with breathtaking views and heart-stopping moments.

The culmination of the ride over the island was at Diamond Cay, where we

Ali Baba’s on Jost Van Dyke

My favorite vacation experiences are always the unexpected ones. Both times we’ve been to the BVI, we have enjoyed memorable moments at Ali Baba’s Restaurant on Jost Van Dyke. The small, open-air, family-owned place sits 20 feet from the beach and is named after its owner, the legendary Ali Baba. He will happily give you a lesson on how to blow into a conch shell (if you buy one), show you the handmade jewelry and crafts he makes and sells on the premises (do not touch unless you’re brave and buying), tell you a story (we heard about his 76th birthday party a few days before where there seemed to have been a wrestling match between Ali Baba and a regretful challenger), or get you a cab ride for the next morning with his friend (who will also tell you stories about the same birthday party).

This trip, Ali Baba’s equally legendary (though more lowprofile) and likely very tolerant wife was playing bartender, host, waiter, bus staff and chef mostly by herself after the staff quit unexpectedly. No worries! What better time to offer to make our own drinks, clean up the bar, clear away dishes and chat with the other table of customers, who were growing grumpier by the minute. Extra tips and handshakes capped off a night to remember. Of course, bright and early the next morning, Ali Baba was right outside, helping us hail his friend’s cab and telling us to come visit again soon.

TRIP TIPS

• Don’t sail after dark. Plan to reach destinations ahead of sunset.

• Early each morning, you can attempt to book a mooring ball in many harbors throughout the BVI by using the Boaty Ball website (boatyball.com). They go live at 7 a.m. and fill up quickly. Be sure to learn the difference between bookable/ reserved balls and first-come, first-served balls, which is based on color and sometimes shape.

• Stay flexible and have backup itineraries ready.

• Check with your doctor to get prescription antinausea ear patches.

• If you wear glasses, go to MBT Divers in Pensacola before your trip and let them fit you for a dive/snorkel mask with corrective lenses.

• Stock up on reef-safe sunscreen and a supply of Free Fly skorts and bamboo shade hoodies, which are lightweight and comfortable.

• Finally — don’t laugh — I highly suggest a daily morning cocktail of Benefiber mixed with a sugar-free electrolyte-replacement packet in a 16-ounce water bottle.

parked the ATVs and hiked to the famous Bubbly Pool, nestled between huge boulders where the surf crashes in. Finally, we headed back to White Bay, this time taking paved roads the whole way.

Cooper Island Beach Club: We made an unplanned stop at Cooper Island and decided to check it out. According to its website (cooperislandbeachclub.com), the resort is “completely off-grid” and “selfsufficient in power and water.” It includes a solar-powered brewery, coffee shop, boutique and restaurant, so it’s enjoyable for day-boaters like us as well as its resort guests. All the cocktails, coffee, lunch dishes and ice cream we sampled were amazing, especially the chicken roti and fish and chips.

Peter Island: Another discovery was the Peter Island Resort, renovated and reopened in 2024. We moored in Great Harbour, beached our dinghy on the empty beach and hiked over to the resort. It’s an odd little path across the island, but the resort is beautiful, with a great bar. You can also head to the resort directly by boat instead of hiking from Great Harbour.

Dove Restaurant: A truly exciting discovery for us was Dove Restaurant in Road Town, Tortola, where we went on our final night after returning to port. It was pure joy to dock, take real showers in The Moorings resort, put on nice clothes and taxi to the restaurant in Road Town. From pre-dinner cocktails to appetizers to main courses, we were all thrilled with our last vacation dinner.

ONE WEEK IN THE ISLANDS

Here’s our full one-week itinerary in the British Virgin Islands.

• Friday: Arrive; spend the night at The Moorings Yacht Club; dine at Charlie’s Restaurant.

• Saturday: Provision the boat, complete inspections and depart; sail to Peter Island Great Harbour; hike over to Peter Island Resort for drinks; dine at Ocean’s 7 Yacht Club (we recommend the prawn linguine and baby back ribs).

• Sunday: Snorkel at The Indians in the morning, sail to Norman Island and moor; hike up to the top of the island; take a quick dinghy ride over to the famous Willy T’s for a pre-dinner drink, then dine at Pirates Bight restaurant (recommend West Indian wings for lunch, baby-back ribs and chicken roti for dinner).

• Monday: Stop at Cooper Island Resort for lunch (fish and chips are to die for). Sail to Bitter End/ Saba Rock and moor; enjoy drinks on Saba Rock. (The restaurant on Saba Rock is outstanding! Be sure to make a reservation.)

• Tuesday: Sail to Necker Island for the nature tour; sail to Diamond Cay/Little Jost; dine at Just Taboo restaurant.

• Wednesday: Snorkel around the cay. (Become stranded when the dinghy engine dies and get rescued by some nice Brazilians in speedos who don’t speak English). Sail to Scrub Island and dock

for the night; enjoy pools and showers; dine at the open-air Donovan’s Reef restaurant.

• Thursday: Sail to Jost Van Dyke’s Great Harbour; dine at Ali Baba’s (see Page 33); enjoy drinks and dancing at Foxy’s.

• Friday: Late morning ATV tour from White Bay to Bubbly Pool; enjoy lunch at Coco Loco and a drink at Soggy Dollar before sailing back to Tortola and The Moorings; dine at Dove Restaurant in Road Town.

• Saturday: Travel home, exhausted, sated and smiling.

The dinghy life is beautiful! Above: Scrub Island Resort is a fabulous midweek stop for a BVI sailing trip. It’s fun to walk the marina at night and see all the sea life swimming around the slips, and there are both casual and fine dining options, boutiques and a nice deli and coffee shop.

An Adventuresome family

Mom and sons publish children’s books

By Cynthia Reeves

Photos by Kate Treick Photography

Callan is just six and his brother, Alistair, is four, but the siblings and their mother are quickly gaining a reputation as intrepid authors, travelers and adventurers.

This spring the boys and their mom, Christine Kapanga, published their second book featuring the fictional character Conner.

In June, the family traveled to New York City to see a billboard for “Conner’s Adventure: New School...Big Jitters!” in Times Square.

The book is out just in time for the new school year. It follows the first in the series, “Conner’s Adventure: Finding Friends at the Zoo.”

Conner is a name Kapanga created that combines the “C” for the first letter in Callan’s name and the “R” from Alistair’s name. The illustrated character in the stories looks a lot like the boys.

Kapanga and her family moved to Pensacola from Chicago about three years ago. Trips to the Gulf Breeze Zoo were a regular outing. The boys were always curious and full of ideas and questions, so their mom encouraged them to put their ideas into writing.

With her background at Amazon in marketing, advertising and technology, she felt confident she could self-publish their tales and appeal to the four- to seven-year-old demographic.

Callan, who attends A.K. Suter Elementary School, is quick to explain that he played a big part in developing the latest book.

“I had the ideas for the book and what to put inside.”

The story includes his own experiences and the “jitters” from making new friends and finding his way around school. There’s a drawing of a map his mom used to help him learn his way around the big campus.

Kapanga encourages her children, and those who will read the book, to see every new challenge as a grand adventure.

“Adventure takes the fear out. Instead of saying this is new, think this is fun.”

She says the strategy works for adults too.

“Just take a deep breath and pause!”

Callan will be in first grade this fall, but he’s not worried or nervous.

“I get to go to special places like music class and P.E.!”

His little brother, Alistair, is in preschool at Episcopal Day School, where he says his favorite things are “playing, going to the park, the swings and finding ants and bugs.”

Kapanga says the family travels a lot together, which is the inspiration for the third book in the series. After traveling to Asia, including South Korea, Thailand and Singapore, they’re outlining a story where Conner tackles travel from a kid’s point of view.

worth the trip

Covington, LOUISIANA

Dining, shopping and outdoor fun

The marketing folks in Louisiana’s St. Tammany Parish call the north shore of Lake Pontchartrain “Louisiana’s Easy Escape.” They are not wrong. For anybody looking for an easy drive on Interstate 10 ending in an immersion in Louisiana culture and small-town charm, this is the place to relax, explore and enjoy.

For those who like to spend time in New Orleans, it’s an easy drive, just 40 minutes across the lake, to add a visit to Covington and the surrounding communities. The heart of the north shore community, Covington is a spot worth a visit for those looking for a relaxing getaway with a variety of things to do.

The Southern Hotel is an outstanding lodging option with a personality and a staff that exude Southern charm. Originally opened in 1907, the stately property, after being closed to guests for decades, was purchased by a local preservationist, renovated and reopened in 2014. Today its luxurious lobby and courtyard are considered the living room of Covington. The guest rooms are comfortable and beautifully appointed.

Covington is a charming town known for its plentiful shopping and dining. The historic downtown features eclectic shops and fine art galleries. There’s the St. Tammany Art Association, which hosts three galleries in its historic Art House, displaying members’ works. Other artists display their works at their own galleries, including the vibrant works at Marianne Angeli Rodriguez Gallery and the arresting monochrome pieces at Abby Sembera Art. Copper

Rooster Antiques & Gifts offers antique finds, and perhaps the most famous store in town, H.J. Smith & Sons General Store and Museum, which has been family-owned and operated since 1876.

For outdoor fun, the 31-mile Tammany Trace is a favorite for both serious cyclists and those who just want to get out on the trail for a couple hours. This Hall of Fame Rails-to-Trails route connects Northshore communities and allows visitors to travel from downtown Covington through the nearby towns of Abita Springs, Mandeville and Lacombe before ending in Slidell.

The trace’s trailheads serve as community gathering places and host weekly farmers markets, concerts and other festivities throughout the year. The bike path gives users easy access from town centers to stretches of trail that feel a world away. Bike rentals are available from a local shop that also offers guided tours of the area.

In nearby Mandeville, the popular Fontainebleau State Park has trails, lakefront beaches and historic sites to explore. There are also self-serve kayak rental kiosks in the park. Mandeville has a beautiful lakefront park with towering oaks, sidewalks, benches and picnic areas, all with panoramic Lake Pontchartrain views.

Dining is a special treat here, as Covington has quite a list of fine dining options. The husband-and-wife team at Del Porto Ristorante are three-time James Beard Award nominees who serve a seasonal, farm-inspired menu at the upscale hot spot. They also own The Greyhound, a European gastropub influenced by Italian and German cuisine, along with an impressive selection of craft beers, wines, signature cocktails and unique beverages.

The Dakota Restaurant serves contemporary Louisiana cuisine and an award-winning selection of wines. The menu features fresh, seasonal ingredients to create signature dishes and Louisiana favorites with a contemporary twist.

There are also locations where the surroundings add to the experience. The Gloriette is one of those. It’s located in The Southern Hotel and combines local and French-inspired cuisine with genuine Southern hospitality. Here, the atmosphere is enhanced by custom murals from international artist Grahame Menage.

Covington has spots for specialty beverages, too. Haven Coffee and Cocktails serves its own Northshore Specialty Coffee alongside craft cocktails. It also offers breakfast, lunch and dinner and hosts weekly live music.

At Abita Roasting Company, finds include houseroasted coffee, specialty drinks along with fresh-baked pastries and brunch plates. Surprisingly, there’s also a British experience to be had here. The English Tea Room & Eatery serves a taste of Britain, in a cottage setting. There are breakfast, lunch and brunch offerings complemented by a collection of more than 200 premium teas from around the world. Freshly baked, house-made scones are favorites.

While eating your way through a visit to Covington can be easy to do, the combination of great dining and activities like shopping, cycling and exploring surrounding towns is what makes it a perfect getaway. As the locals say, it’s an easy escape.

worth the trip

VEGAS, BABY!

Sin City’s best moments happen on the Strip — and far beyond it

The old catchphrase, “What Happens in Vegas Stays in Vegas,” gives off the vibe that it’s nothing but trouble, but an adventurous traveler can manage to have a good time in the so-called “Sin City” without too many wild shenanigans.

The idea is to tackle Vegas like a local. There’s a lot more to see and do beyond the infamous Strip.

For starters, consider staying at or near South Point Hotel, Casino, and Spa, located along Las Vegas Boulevard in Enterprise, just south of the Las Vegas Strip. Consider yourself lucky if the casino serves its famous hot dog entrée on the day you visit, which is a local’s favorite lunch.

For a laid-back Western atmosphere, a little gambling and great food, also check out the Black Mountain Grill in Henderson, just a few miles from all the action. The establishment is known for its casual, lodge-like feel, a strong local following, happy hour and outstanding prime rib on Friday nights.

It’s a great place to chill out and relax after a morning or afternoon spent visiting the amazing Hoover Dam, which is about a 45-minute drive from the Strip.

Completed in 1935, the dam is an architectural masterpiece built like a giant Lego set. It’s located in the Black Canyon of the Colorado River, which is simply breathtaking.

If you can take the heat, walk up to the bridge that crosses the ArizonaNevada border or take the tour that takes you deep under the structure to cool off.

Speaking of cool, nothing is quite as hip, cool, stunning or memorable as a visit to Vegas’ giant Sphere. It is the largest spherical structure on the planet, with the largest LED screen in the world.

Admittedly, my friends and I felt kind of dizzy when we reached our seats near the top of the 366-foot-high globe, but promoters promised an “incredible immersive visual 4D experience,” so we clung to our seats and tummies and toughed it out.

We selected an afternoon showing of “The Wizard of Oz.” Dorothy and Toto danced into our hearts and minds like never before as we traveled with them down the yellow brick road. Our seats were shaking, apples and snow were falling from the rafters. It was awesome fun.

After Dorothy clicked her heels and headed back to Kansas, we decided to drum up courage like the lion and brave the Strip after all.

To shop for souvenirs and relax, the Mandalay Bay Resort has a little something for everyone. The Rí Rá Irish Pub is a nice surprise — an authentic Irish-feeling pub with a perfect Irish coffee and the best bartender this side of Dublin.

Martin, the bartender, told us, “Rí Rá” generally translates to “a commotion, bedlam or good fun.” Perfect for Vegas.

To experience ultimate Vegas extravagance and luxury, the Bellagio is a beautiful indulgence. For each season, the conservatory attached to the hotel and casino is decked out in a magical floral splendor. It’s a picturetaker’s must-do stop: a colorful and beautiful backdrop for the stretch of gaming tables and slot machines.

A cozy corner away from the cha-ching, cha-ching of the slots is the lovely Petrossian piano bar.

The complex is filled with endless, top-rated shows and fine restaurants. I like the Mayfair Supper Club for a nice dining experience. Stay for a variety show or relax in the bar sipping on a classic martini and caviar with all the trimmings. You’re in Vegas, baby! Why not?

A gambler or not, it is worth rolling the dice and giving Vegas a try for a long weekend.

FRIDAY LUNCH EVERY FRIDAY FROM 11:00 AM TO 2:00 PM

out&about

FavorHouse Round-Up

FavorHouse hosted its 3rd annual Round-Up on June 26 at the Escambia County Equestrian Center. Guests enjoyed live music, barbecue, dancing, games, exciting auctions and a lively Western-themed evening in support of survivors of domestic violence. Proceeds helped FavorHouse continue providing confidential, free services, including safety, shelter and advocacy for residents of Escambia and Santa Rosa counties.

out&about

The Landing

out&about

Pensacola Chamber Business After Hours

out&about

Unique Boutique Ribbon Cutting

On June 12, Unique Boutique celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon cutting hosted by the Greater Pensacola Chamber of Commerce. Guests enjoyed a first look at the boutique’s new signature clothing line, the unveiling of its Furniture & Home Gallery, shopping, refreshments and networking. The celebration officially welcomed the locally owned business to the Pensacola community.

Toni

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out&about

The Watson Family Foundation Juneteenth Festival

The 5th Annual Juneteenth: A Family Reunion for the Culture Festival was held June 13 at Museum Plaza in downtown Pensacola. Guests enjoyed live music, food, cultural performances, local vendors and family-friendly activities celebrating the history and achievements of the African American community. This event brought the community together for a day of culture, unity and celebration.

By Sharla Gorder

Shut up, amygdala, you’re fine her perspective

My room was pitch-black when I awakened this morning, and my thoughts were even darker. I peeked at my clock with dread. Damn. 3 a.m. Again.

With more than three hours until sunrise, I rolled over and pressed a pillow over my head — as though I might block all those strangely negative ruminations with a pouch of feathers. No such luck. They were coming from the inside.

“What is wrong with me?” I wondered. “What’s with all this pessimism? Where’s my attitude of gratitude? Why can’t I turn off this captious chatter and go back to sleep?”

At the very moment I was lamenting my 3 a.m. awakening, there were likely thousands of others in my time zone doing the same. Researchers estimate that up to 40% of adults report this disruption of sleep — specifically sometime between 2 and 4 a.m. — and the dilemma only worsens with age. I am not alone, though it certainly feels that way in the bleak, black, predawn hours.

The biological, neurological and evolutionary science behind this condition is fascinating. While it doesn’t offer a lot of clues as to how to remedy the situation, it does seem to scream some pretty good advice: Never trust a single thought you have at 3 a.m.

Here’s why: Your amygdala, the primal “fear center” of your brain, has an earlier wake-up call than the part of your brain (the prefrontal cortex) that is rational and analytical. During the second half of your nightly slumber, the hormone melatonin, which promotes sleep, ebbs, while the hormone cortisol, which encourages wakefulness, rises. This is why most of our deep and REM (rapid eye movement) sleep occurs in the first half of the night, leaving us in lighter sleep during the second half. And lighter sleep, of course, is more fragile and sensitive to unwanted disruptions. A distant car alarm at 3 a.m. is more likely to wake you than the same noise at 11 p.m. Minor aches and pains — arthritis, muscle soreness from a great workout, a kink in your neck from a weird sleep

position — are also more likely to wake you in the wee hours. Earlier in the night, during cycles of REM sleep, your body goes through periods of actual paralysis. Only the muscles that support breathing and, interestingly, your eyeballs are capable of movement during these critical sleep phases. This lack of movement inhibits the production of synovial fluid in your joints, making them stiff and achy — and more likely to wake you up in the lighter sleep stages of the early a.m.

So, you’re awake.

And pissed off you’re awake … again. Your amygdala is up and at ’em, raring to go, enthusiastically reminding you of every possible danger, insecurity, grudge and fear that exists in the universe.

So helpful … Yeah, maybe for our caveman ancestors a few thousand millennia ago. For us today, not so much.

That’s why our brains have evolved.

The “newest” part of our brain, the prefrontal cortex, can reason with our fretful amygdala.

Problem is, the PFC likes to sleep in a bit. It is powerfully driven by nature — specifically morning light. And it learns how to anticipate sunrise through our circadian clocks, a collection of specialized cells called the suprachiasmatic nucleus.

This is why “bright ideas,” dire assumptions and selfdefeating thoughts you’ve had at 3 a.m. often seem absurd in the light of day. Maybe it’s not the best idea to quit your miserable job, learn to play the lute and become a traveling minstrel.

By the time the sun rises, your PFC is fully functional. You are rational again.

I need to remind myself of this in those dark, fretful hours. If you’ve ever been to Las Vegas, you’ve likely seen the T-shirts that say, “Shut up liver, you’re fine.”

I want to design a nightshirt for myself, imprinted upside down with glow-in-the-dark letters that I can read by glancing down …

Shut up, amygdala, you’re fine.

And I am.

By Liz Biggs

Eighteen summers — make them count her perspective

A friend posted her child’s high school graduation photos, and the caption read, “We only have 18 summers — make them count.” I was staring at the blank page once again on the due date of my column and thought, “Hmm, that’s a good subject to write about.” I mentioned it to my editor, and she replied, “I think that’s already been written about; I think it’s a book.” Google confirmed this, informing me the key themes of the book are fleeting time, guilt and grace: “Parents roughly have just 18 summers to build memories and influence their children before they are grown and leave the nest. Throughout the book, the characters face distinct flaws and insecurities. As summer flies by, they must learn to navigate the delicate line between holding on to their kids and letting them go.” Sounds boring.

During my Google search, I also learned “18 Summers” is a song by Matthew West. I gave it a listen. Also boring. On the cheesy scale from Velveeta to Parmigiano Reggiano, this song tastes like Velveeta — like a scoop of nacho cheese at a high school football game. If I truly want to feel verklempt, Harry Chapin’s “Cat’s in the Cradle” is like a fine sharp cheddar. Still cheesy, but at least it’s aged well. Or “Father and Son” by Cat Stevens — it’s gooey like brie.

accumulated after living in the same house for 30 years. It would have been sheer torture to tackle the overstuffed closets on my own, but somehow, she made it fun. She let me touch everything — close my eyes and enjoy the memories — before she carted it all off to donate.

Online, I see friends with young children posting Disney trip photos, and a wave of guilt consumes me momentarily. I have Disney phobia. We took our first two children there when they were little. We read the guidebooks and knew to get there as soon as the park opened. It was a mob scene as we entered through the turnstiles. Our youngest was in a stroller, but our 5-year-old busted loose into the crowd, and we lost him in a matter of seconds. We spent our first two hours at Disney in the lost child office, terrified. He was found having a blast in Adventureland. If you know him, this kind of makes sense, lol. Lucky for us, my sister, their dear Aunt Susie, graciously became our children’s Disney surrogate and never lost them. I’m still afraid to go back.

However, this is my 60th column, and I need a dang subject to write about, so even though it’s boring and cheesy, I’m sticking with it. I’ve got two paragraphs — in poker, that means I’m pot-committed. Forget about fleeting time; ain’t nobody got time to think about that. I will focus on guilt and grace. But mostly guilt.

Our fourth child only came home from college for a few weeks before she left to study abroad in Italy. Time with her is so precious — I thought we would do girly things like shop and brunch. I kind of hate shopping, and breakfast foods are gross, but I was willing to take one for the team. Turns out, all she wanted to do was clean out closets, cabinets and drawers. And get rid of all the stuff we have

It’s not the 18 summers part that stresses me out. It’s the make-them-count part that feels like too much pressure. These summers should be filled with “summer feelings”: leisurely beach vacays, cotton-candy-sky sunsets and naps in a hammock — but really, we’re sweating in this god-awful humidity, having bad hair days and fighting over whether to keep the expired cinnamon and vanilla in the spice-cabinet cleanout. (I totally agreed to throw away the 2018 Italian seasoning; it smelled like dirty socks. But the vanilla and cinnamon still smelled okay to me.)

Here’s the grace part: Listen to Talk Talk’s ’80s hit, “Life’s What You Make It” — can’t escape it, don’t backdate it, celebrate it, they sing. I suppose fun’s what you make it, too. Even death cleaning can be fun if it means you get to spend time with your 21-year-old baby girl. She’s back at college now, but every time I open a closet, cabinet or drawer, I smile and think of her.