Bella Magazine July 2023

Sparking JOY

Fashion goes retro; decluttering clears the mind; find advice on your quest for happiness; Family Orchard Farms brings bliss.

ALSO INSIDE

Kelly Gibson finds joy by opening Salt Home Studio.

Jewelry forged by Hand & Hammer. Sharing empowerment and beauty through the art of metalsmithing.

"Drawing inspiration and strength from the ocean in the form of wearable art, Changing Tides Jewelry is a woman & veteran owned company that sees jewelry as armor and beauty all rolled into one. They use locally sourced seashells alongside precious metals, gemstones, and sea glass to create meaningful one of a kind pieces of art. Changing Tides has been a steady presence in the Pensacola art scene for the last 8 years, recently incorporating the hot new trend of Permanent Jewelry. Check social media and website for a full list of shopping locations."

Kristen Browne Owner & Artist

ChangingTidesJewelry.com

from the editor

Joy is defined by Merriam-Webster as “a feeling of great pleasure or happiness.” So, it’s next-level happiness.

But joy doesn’t always come naturally. Sometimes you have be intentional about it and seek it out, so it is important for us to know what gives us joy. It is easy to get caught up in the day-to-day hustle of life and let the fun things drop off of our schedules. I know I do this. Surely the action items for work or even home are more important than having a little fun, right? And personally, I struggle with having enough energy at times, so I should prioritize making sure I have enough energy for the “important” stuff, right? Um…no. Whether you call it happiness or joy, it’s the most important thing. Otherwise, what are we working so hard for?

I am usually a pretty happy person, but life has been a bit rough lately, and I’ve had to work hard to try and put on a happy face. At times it’s felt like I’ve been in survival mode – just trying to get through the day and get done what I have to get done. When you’re in that survival mode, there’s not a lot of joy, but it made me realize the importance of intentionally seeking out the good stuff. There were times I didn’t think I felt like doing the fun things that I knew would bring me happiness, but I would push myself to put my hair in a ponytail and get out of the house and be with my people – and it was worth it every single time. And those times helped contribute to improving my overall mood and helped getting me out of just surviving and into a better place. This helped to recharge me for all aspects of my life.

So, figure out what sparks joy for you. Some people can’t focus unless they have a clean and tidy home (or office), so check out our decluttering story on page 22. But, as that story notes, even Marie Kondo has figured out that there are more important things in life than always focusing on an organized home.

The experts we spoke to for our cover story on page 28 say that joy is innately inside all of us and that it’s really our thoughts that control our ability to experience that joy. We have to get outside of our heads and all the spinning thoughts so that joy can rise up inside of us.

I have a hard time with my mind racing at night. I’ve tried writing things down – journaling feelings or writing my to dos for the next day so I stop thinking about them. Those things do help, but what has helped me the most is a basic gratitude practice right before I get into bed. I do a couple of stretches, crack my back and then I say out loud what I’m grateful for that day. Those things make me smile, but I think it’s the saying them out loud that always makes me laugh at myself. Maybe the things I’m grateful for make me happy, but the laughing out loud is what takes it the next level of joy. It really can be that simple.

Also, having the cutest puppy in the world curled up next to me while I write this brings me a ton of joy!

— Kelly MacLeod

Bella Staff

PUBLISHER / Kelly MacLeod

EDITOR / Kelly MacLeod

ART DIRECTOR / Elizabeth Meyer

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS:

Liz Biggs, Sloan Stephens Cox, Bradley “Beej” Davis, Jr., Alice Crann Good, Allison McCrory, Magi Thomley Williams

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Lakesha Davis, Kate Treick

On the cover: Lonni Moorer models an Olivaceous jumpsuit from SoBo Boutqiue. Find out more on Page 10.

Photo by Kate Treick Photography

BY SLOANE STEPHENS COX / BELLAMAGAZINE.COM / PHOTOS

• Claire V “Sandy” bag, $145, Shopbop.com.

• Khaite “Kam” bucket hat, $580, KhaiteFashion.com.

• Just Bee Queen “Sol” top, $295, Shopbop.com.

• Prada Raffia slides, $1,150, Prada.com.

• Large straw shopper, $24.99, H&M.

• Bucket hat, $17.99, H&M.

• Bow top, $29.90, Zara.com.

• Steve Madden “Kasper” slides, $89, Dillard’s.

PROVIDED

Groundbreaking Care

Baptist Heart & Vascular Institute

Baptist Health Care offers groundbreaking heart and vascular care and is Northwest Florida’s largest and most experienced team of cardiovascular specialists. Collectively the group has pioneered virtually every new innovation in heart care in our region and continuously earns awards for quality and excellence. Our many convenient locations throughout the area offer easy access to the region’s top specialists. Deeply rooted in our mission of helping people throughout life’s journey to make us – our community – better, we are continuing our legacy of transforming for the future.

ebaptisthealthcare.org

Shopping list: Make a colorful retro statement and spark joy in this Olivaceous jumpsuit, $74. For an extra dose of wow, wear it with fuchsia metallic heels.

fashion Spark Joy

with Hot Hues & Retro Styles

By Allison McCrory • Photos by Kate Treick Photography

While safe neutrals will always be closet staples, the message for July fashion is Go Big or Go Home!

From Coastal Cowgirl to ’60s Groove to Ballet Core – it’s all on the table.

“The biggest trend we are seeing right now is the Coastal Cowgirl trend and it is essentially coastal-like fabrics such as gauze, linen, light knits and sheer fabrics paired with western accents like cowboy boots, western style hats, belts and denim,” said Alicia Taylor-Printz, owner of SoBo Boutique on Ninth Avenue in Pensacola. “The two staple pieces for Coastal Cowgirl are cowboy boots and button-up dresses, tops or sets. Coastal Cowgirl is huge right now because it is a gateway for so many other aesthetics. You can also have Boho Coastal Cowgirl, French Coastal Cowgirl, Vintage Coastal Cowgirl and more, all you need is cowboy boots.”

If cowgirl is not your vibe, July offers many other style options.

“Another trend we are loving is Ballet Core, which is tons of tulle, ballet flats and fit-and-flare dresses or skirts,” Taylor-Printz added. “Get yourself a linen set, or dress, that can be easily dressed up or down. A lightweight button up top will be a go-to piece for your wardrobe.”

In addition, look for metallics, soft tulle, denim, linen, cotton, florals and retro ’60s inspired prints, said Taylor-Printz.

“Metallics are super in trend right now, from handbags to shoes. Any type of shoe such as cowboy boots, heels or sandals that involve metallic silver, gold, fuchsia or chartreuse are going to be a staple piece for any outfit. Those shoes also will carry throughout the seasons and same goes for the handbags. Also rattan belts, bags and shoes are still hanging in strong,” she said.

Shopping list: Go everywhere this summer in this trio! Wide-leg pants are all the rage, and these pleated pants by Mustard Seed in oat, $66, will team with almost any top. Bustier top, $46, is by Wishlist and cool lace tie wrap top by The Why, $54.

At right, matching sets are a 2023 sensation and linen is the Gulf Coast’s favorite summer fabric. Wear this set by Wishlist, $96, together or separately.

Lonni Moorer

Call it cliché, but University of Alabama honor student Lonni Moorer finds joy in the simple things.

“I enjoy sitting out at Shoreline Park and watching the sunset and eating dinner with my friends. It’s so peaceful out there and I have so many beautiful memories with my friends at Shoreline, so every time I go, I’m reminded of them and all of the good times we shared,” said the Gulf Breeze native who will soon start her junior year studying psychology and criminal justice.

“I serve as the mental health and wellness chair for my sorority, and I’m an undergraduate student intern at Taylor Hardin Secure Medical Facility,” said Moorer, whose hard work has landed her in the Cardinal Key Honors and Psi Chi Honors societies.

Back at home, she loves to drink in the local highlights.

“One of my favorite things to do when I come home is grab Bagelheads first thing in the morning and then go out to the beach with my friends. I also love checking out the Saturday Palafox Market and all of the shops downtown. I love to read and I recently started teaching myself how to crochet. I also enjoy cooking and baking for my friends and trying out new recipes. I also like most types of music and singing – my shower has heard some pretty amazing concerts!”

Moorer launched into modeling at age 14 when she walked the runway in the Baptist Health Care Foundation Stepping Out in Style fashion show. Since then, she’s worked as a runway, print and e-commerce model while balancing school and extracurriculars.

Shopping list: Channel your inner ballerina with this exquisite tulle skirt by She + Sky, $62. A spandex brami by Wishlist, $38, is the perfect understated complement. Throw essentials in a sequin bucket bag and finish off with feminine jewelry!

Shopping list: Clean lines let the fabric do the talking in this sparkly cape dress by Tyche, $92. White cowgirl boots add a surprise touch of trend.

About The Location

In and around Voices of Pensacola Multicultural Center, 117 E. Government St., Pensacola; 850-5955840; visitpensacola.com

Hair & Makeup

Stylist Donna Bryant, Adore You Salon, 2750 E. Olive Rd., Pensacola; 850-261-9595; adoreyousalon.com

Clothes Compliments of SoBo Boutique, 518 N. 9th Ave, Pensacola; 850-4340258; thesoboboutique.com

Model Compliments of Izon Models & Talent LLC, 301 N. Barcelona St., Suite E, Pensacola; 850-433-2099; izonmodels.com

stylingthe shoot

Photography: Kate Treick / Fashion styling: Allison McCrory Where to shop: SoBo Boutique

Gigi Pip Ginger Gambler hat, $96.

Ccocci Cordelia Slide Sandal, $24.

Bamboo Strikeout heels, $42. Let’s See Style Nadine sandals, $56.

Queens Designs woven straw handle bag, $58.

Golden Stella sequin bucket bag, $58.

Oasis Society Amaya cowboy boots, $122.

Bag Boutique bright flower silk scarf, $12.

Bag Boutique sunglasses, $12. Golden Stella twist dome ring, $34. Golden Stella herringbone bracelets, $26.

Baizaar cuff, $28.

Golden Stella long bar stone necklace, $14.

Golden Stella wavy acrylic cuff, $12.

Golden Stella flower earrings, $16.

Golden Stella headband, $24.

Golden Stella bead bracelet, $22.

Golden Stella heart earrings, $16. Anarchy Street stamped bar Sil earring, $14.

Flaura by Laura Richards bracelet, $42.

Are Collagen Treatments Right for You?

Looking at harnessing and renewing our skin from within

By Bradley “Beej” Davis, Jr.

Photos by Kate Treick Photography

The steadfast search for the perfect skin care regime can help one feel beautiful and confident. Sure, all the creams, serums, pills and needle pokes can be overwhelming, so it may be helpful to look at the cellular, biological level in order to become confident when choosing a skincare routine. A great place to start is collagen, the primary protein that, for the sake of simplification, helps make our skin look and feel the way it does. The good news about collagen? We already have it throughout our entire body. Think of collagen as flexible scaffolding; it gives strength to our cells – but it also gives elasticity. At first thought, we associate collagen with our skin, hair and nails, but collagen is found in our tendons, blood vessels, cartilage and even bones.

Zooming in with that microscope, we find that collagen is composed of nothing more than proteins forming fibrous strands or connectors which are themselves intertwined just beneath the skin’s surface. But over time, those strands become thin and weaken, leading to a loss of elasticity, thus creating the appearance of wrinkles. This is when most people reach for those special serums and crafted creams, but what if you could revive those weakened strands?

“Collagen is a building block for skin repair,” said Alice Bohannon with The Skin Care Center at Gulf Coast Plastic Surgery.

Bohannon said their office, like many skincare centers in town, offers an array of treatments that go deeper than, well, skin deep.

“Everything we do in our office is to improve the appearance of the skin. This can be facials and routine use of products to microneedling and deep lasers as well as injectables under the skin,” she said. And, yes, you heard that correctly: lasers. “We have numerous types of lasers at our office. CO2 lasers are a type of ablative laser which actually break the top layer of skin or the epidermis. The results are not only collagen stimulation but also smoothing

“Everything we do in our office is to improve the appearance of the skin. This can be facials and routine use of products to microneedling and deep lasers as well as injectables under the skin.”

—Alice Bohannon, Gulf Coast Plastic Surgery

SKIN AGING

and tightening and resurfacing the top layer of skin. All the different types of lasers operate at different energy levels.” Even though some of us feel that time is marching across our faces, it is important to manage the expectations we have for results.

“This process does not happen overnight,” said Bohannon. Results will certainly vary from client to client, but the important thing is despite one’s efforts to thwart time, it does take some to achieve the results you are striving for.

“It may be weeks before a difference in the skin is

apparent,” said Bohannon.

This also goes for injectables which are popular since some non-collagen treatments like Botox can achieve results within days. However, remember that collagen skin treatments are aimed at reviving your own collagen, and if your unique path for skincare includes harnessing and accentuating your own beauty from within, collagen might be a better fit for you.

“There are also many different types of injectable products, and they have their own unique mechanisms but they too will stimulate collagen under the skin,” said Bohannon.

Decluttering Clears the Mind

By Alice Crann

Macu Mateo and Emily Speed share simpatico perspectives when discussing their businesses and news that global tidy queen Marie Kondo tossed her dust rags to raise her three young children.

The Pensacola professional organizers, wives and mothers of youngsters, welcome the fact Kondo succumbed to reality.

“It’s not easy, not even for naturally organized people, to keep your home organized one hundred percent of the time,” said Mateo, founder and CEO of Reset Home. “As a mother of three little ones and wife of a not particularly organized husband, I feel I am in the same boat as Marie Kondo.”

Balance is key, said Mateo, who honed her organizational skills as her husband’s Navy career carried them to different countries and cities. Mateo has assisted many military and civilian households getting organized. She is inaugural director of the Military Spouse Chamber of Commerce/Home of Military Spouse Owned Businesses.

“We all need to let go of the idea of perfection, let go of the idea that everyday life looks like it’s never been touched,” said

Speed, creator and CEO of The Organized Home Mindset and “a recovering perfectionist.”

But while letting go of perfection, go ahead and accept the mindset that being organized is a positive move, Speed said.

“Your home is supposed to be your sanctuary,” she said. “Some people have homes that are so cluttered that they go out just to get away from it all. You need to address the clutter that is stressing you out because being organized and mental health are linked. I left my career of fourteen years in forensics to follow a path that brought more peace and joy in my life. Decluttering your home can ultimately do the same thing: clear your mind and bring you peace.”

Indeed it can. A study published in “Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin” stated that “women who described their living spaces as cluttered... were more likely to be tired and depressed than women who found their homes restful and restorative.”

“Nobody enjoys coming home or winding down for the night surrounded by a mess,” Mateo said. “Reducing the

Good • Photos by Kate Treick Photography

“We all need to let go of the idea of perfection, let go of the idea that everyday life looks like it’s never been touched.”

— Emily Speed, creator and CEO of The Organized Home Mindset

“Reducing the number of belongings in your home is a great way to simplify your life, and it becomes easier to organize and keep it organized.”

— Macu Mateo, founder and CEO of Reset Home

number of belongings in your home is a great way to simplify your life, and it becomes easier to organize and keep it organized.”

Start by simply downsizing, Speed said.

“Don’t try to overhaul your whole house at once…start small,” Speed advised. “This will be less stressful for the non-organized person in your family.”

She recommends going room by room.

“Take one space at a time,” she said. “My husband and I have systems in place for each room and return items where they belong when we are finished using them. And we are teaching our children where the toys go, where dirty clothes go. To avoid clutter returning, understand that you will have to revisit those areas to maintain the levels of organization you created.”

And try not using a designated area such as a dining room as an office, a living room as a playroom, etc., Mateo said.

“Children need to be taught that rooms for the entire family are common areas – neutral, toy-free areas where everyone can relax,” Mateo said. “If you can, create a toy room or space for the children.”

The Mateos have an activity cabinet near the dining room table for their children that is set up to accommodate their size and allows them to be independent.

“We let them use the dining room table so we can watch them, but when they are through with what they are doing, they must put away everything before dinner time,” Mateo said.

Mateo and Speed both believe: In a household, everyone – and that means the kids, too – can contribute to the organization and peace of the home.

LET’S DO IT!

Professional organizers Macu Mateo of Reset Home and Emily Speed of The Organized Home Mindset share ways to organize your homes on their Facebook and Instagram pages. (Instagram: resethomenow; theorganizedhomemindset; Websites: resethomenow.com; theorganizedhomemindset.com)

TO GET YOU STARTED, MATEO OFFERED SOME TIPS:

1 Have a donation bin, and everything that is not sparking joy anymore for any reason (and it’s not trash) can happily go there. Pro tip: Once the bin is full, get it out of the house and to the donation site ASAP.

2 You should be able to see the floors in your home, including the corner of your closet. Pro tip: Use vertical space for storage.

3 Fold clothes and store them vertically in your drawers, like files in a filing cabinet. That way you see them all at once, and it will be easier to keep it neat.

4 Have only one or two (max!) laundry baskets. You will force yourself to fold and put away clean clothes before washing more dirty laundry.

5 Make it a habit to put things away before winding down or going to sleep. Tidy the kitchen, straighten pillows and throw blankets, etc. Your morning self will greatly appreciate it. Simplify your life with a happy reset!

causes

Blues Angel Music Foundation: MUSIC FOR THE BODY AND MIND

“Children who play music perform better on testing, retain information better, have advanced social skills and develop better focus,” said Nan DeStafney, a retired Navy Nurse and Blues Angel Music Foundation founder.

By Magi Thomley Williams

The Blues Angel Music Foundation aims to make a positive impact on the Greater Pensacola area through the promotion of music education, instruction and therapy throughout the lifespan of every individual it touches.

For youth, this includes donating instruments to schools and underserved children, starting ukulele programs in elementary schools and providing scholarships for students who would not otherwise be able to afford music lessons.

In the senior population, the foundation works with Alzheimer’s and dementia care facilities to use music for memory care through the Bring Back the Rhythm program which puts personalized music playlists from a person’s younger days on MP3 players. The foundation also starts music programs in senior facilities allowing people to learn to play an instrument or sing.

“Music has been used as a therapeutic since just after the Second World War,” said Nan DeStafney, a retired Navy Nurse, and Blues Angel Music Foundation founder. “Doctors and nurses saw firsthand the positive benefits music had in helping soldiers returning from war cope with trauma and pain. The impact of music on our emotions is profound. It possesses the capacity to elicit various feelings such as joy, sorrow, vitality, enthusiasm or serenity.”

Research shows that music does have a physical impact, which translates to impacting mood.

“Scientific evidence confirms that music triggers the release of mood-enhancing chemicals in our bodies, two of which are dopamine and endorphins, which benefit patients in medical treatment,” DeStafney said.

According to DeStafney, dopamine acts as a “feel-good” chemical transmitter by increasing pleasure receptors. It is released as a reward

for satisfying bodily desires like eating and sleeping and listening to music. Dopamine promotes a positive mood and motivates humans to seek out activities that generate that pleasurable feeling. Endorphins are hormones that induce a happy state of mind and a sense of euphoria. Music also stimulates the release of endorphins – often associated with the “runner’s high” – eliciting feelings of happiness and sometimes serving as effective pain relievers.

MORE INFORMATION

• Blues on the Bay facebook.com/ bluesonthebaypensacola

• Blues Angel Music Foundaion bluesangelmusic.com/foundation

“Children who play music perform better on testing, retain information better, have advanced social skills and develop better focus. Seniors can find moments of memory when listening to music from their youth. Think of songs you enjoyed in your teens and twenties, even if you haven’t heard them in decades. If they came on the radio, you’d still remember most of the lyrics and the melody would bring back joy. Music has the power to not only bring people together but heal. Our program’s music sparks joy in myriad and indescribable ways,” DeStafney explained.

Blues Angel Music sponsors a free annual summer concert series called Blues on the Bay to support the foundation’s fundraising efforts and educate attendees about the work of the foundation. Concerts are held on select Sunday afternoons at the Vince J. Whibbs, Sr. Community Maritime Park. Visit the Facebook page for dates and more information.

The foundation accepts donations of gently used musical instruments that can be used in school bands or orchestras, accepts monetary donations and seeks event volunteers. Visit their website to learn how to support the foundation and their community projects. Music isn’t just a good time; music is good for the body and mind.

Photos by Kate Treick Photography

cover story

Three local

By Alice Crann Good

experts share their advice for your…

Photos by Kate Treick Photography

COCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Angie Randall, Florence Doisneau and Catherine P. Jehle provide advice on how to spark joy in your life.

Quest for JOY

l o c a l a w a r d w i n n i n g D O W N T O W N P E N S A C O L A

“Gratitude is the key to joy. The first thing in the morning before your feet touch the floor, before you pick up your phone, take 30 seconds to remind yourself of something that you are grateful for. The more you do this, the more joy you will have in your life.”

— Angie Randall, a Pensacola certified professional life coach

with positive pathways.”

Randall said do not misunderstand –go ahead and experience anger, sadness and grief, “But do not allow yourself to live there indefinitely.”

Catherine P. Jehle is a strong proponent of mindfulness.

“It is the practice of being aware, paying attention, being present,” said Jehle, a Pensacola LCSW mental health counselor in private practice. “When you are more present and aware, mindful of your feelings, this will help you notice joy.”

Releasing judgment is essential.

“It is important to recognize how you feel without any judgment… to understand that you are not your thoughts and feelings,” Jehle added. “They are emotional experiences, and you can release them.”

Randall recommended taking steps.

“Gratitude is the key to joy,” Randall said. “The first thing in the morning before your feet touch the floor, before you pick up your phone, take 30 seconds to remind yourself of something that you are grateful for. The more you do this, the more joy you will have in your life.”

Look at who is in your life, she advised.

“Keep your inner circle very small,” Randall said. “Only allow people in who add value to your life.”

That said, human connection is a necessity for living a joyful life, Randall said.

“Get out and get involved in your community,” she said. “We are wired for human connection. When we feel connected, we feel loved and supported. Having people in our lives that add significant value to us is essential to our overall mental health.”

So, don’t wait for perfection to experience joy. It simply won’t show up.

The state-of-mind experts agreed: joy is a mindset that has nothing to do with status and materialism.

Kelly Gibson has created an inviting environment at Salt Home Design, a lifestyle store and design studio in Gulf Breeze.

SALT HOME STUDIO

Kelly Gibson opens and says yes to joy

By Alice Crann Good Photos

Sitting at a grand, round wood table in a cushioned, rattan chair at Salt Home Studio, Kelly Gibson smiles broadly as she peruses her coastal chic shop brimming with natural and colorful décor. Next to Gibson in the front display window sit her “sentries,” two impressive Legend of Asia blue sea flower lamps.

In this stylish realm Gibson started in March, the wife and mother of three school-aged children chats about her busy and circuitous route to opening the Gulf Breeze lifestyle store and design studio.

“This journey was really about me deciding what brings me joy,” Gibson said. “It took a lot of time getting here, but it’s now a level of joy that allows me to share and spread that joy. It makes me happy that my husband and children can see this.”

Known for “always doing something,” Gibson’s life journey has included myriad roles at different types of businesses and organizations – florist, restaurant, real estate, non-profit(s), etc.

“Harry (her husband) and I renovated tons of houses,” Gibson said. “While I was doing that, people always asked me for advice on design in general. It’s funny. Sometimes, you don’t realize you

by Kate Treick Photography

have gifts until people keep telling you. You don’t realize right away what is unique about you.”

Then, wham! Gibson said she started paying attention.

“When the universe smacks you in the back of the head several times, you need to pay attention, you need to say ‘yes’ to sharing your gifts. So, I decided to start helping people with their homes…that’s what sparked the idea for the store.”

Everything about Salt Home Studio garners inspiration from coastal living, Gibson said.

Inventory includes inside/outside furniture customized with performance fabrics, powder-coated lighting, rattan furniture and accessories, basket-weave furnishings, luxury textiles, vibrant pillows, custom lamps and lampshades, dinnerware/glassware, beach and children’s sections, scents/diffusers, curiosity boxes, frames, journals and much more.

Works by local artists Kelly Whibbs, Sarah Soule Webb, Janice Duke and Camille Cornett add a sense-ofcommunity touch.

In addition to her keen eye for design, Gibson’s hospitality shines. All guests and customers are invited to “browse and relax.” Sitting areas include an olive-green sectional with a square, braided seagrass and glass coffee table and an arrangement of four swivel chairs covered in rattan mineral performance fabric.

Nearby on a counter sits a whimsical antique brass candy display with three large glass domes – just steps away from two popular books: “The Joy of Home” by Ashley Gilbreath and “Celebrating Home, A Time for Every Season” by James T. Farmer III.

And, if you can hold on until a Friday to visit Salt Home Studio, that’s the weekday Gibson serves some bubbly.

“I wanted to create a place that brought people joy right when they walked in,” said Gibson, while setting up her wood bistro chairs and tables outside the store entrance.

Done – joyfully, of course!

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Sparking joy through healing and restoration at local fare

Family Orchards Farm

By Magi Thomley Williams Photos by Kate Treick Photography

Todd Morris and Aaron Ward Ball often laugh about memories created on Family Orchards Farm in Molino.

In 2015, Morris found the property for sale by owner on Craigslist. It was incredibly overgrown, and the remains of a house destroyed by fire were an eyesore, but Morris saw the vision and felt he was just the person to restore the place. He fell in love with the pecan groves, rolling hills and pond on the fifteen acres. When Ball joined the project, they knew they had the work ethic to do it.

“It’s certainly a labor of love to put up fences and reclaim the land from the weeds and care for over 100 animals,” Morris said. “There’s always something inspiring going on to generate healing and restoration.

There’s always rebirth, the seasons change, the animal babies. A lamb was born just yesterday that we are calling Baby Bella in honor of your magazine.”

The business partners have found that some of their happiest memories are when they open the gates to the community.

They have also found themselves getting creative when necessary.

“I’ll never forget one event we did. We thought it would be gorgeous weather in September and we invited the entire community. Tia Robbins and Madrina Ciano and all their people and all our friends came. It was 105 degrees, and we had no place to keep their little children cool,” Ball recalled. “I thought they were going to pass out and die so we got this idea to drive them to the river.”

For more information and to purchase Family Orchard Farms products, visit familyorchardfarm.com.

Ball laughs remembering Aaron Watson and his wife Kimberly plopping their children into the water to keep them cool.

Morris and Ball also enjoy the different experiences they are providing to their daughter.

“We have a 14-year-old daughter, Ruby,” Morris said. “I wanted to give her this lifestyle in addition to a traditional life in town because of the experiences and the exposure and all the neat things that happen on the farm and around the animals. She’s learned a lot about perseverance and hard work. She’ll bring friends out here that don’t have this kind of life. Everybody loves seeing horses and holding animals they don’t get to see very often.”

Ball and Morris have seen the farm be a healing place for many. Recently, they provided a home to a friend of their daughter. The experience has been a growing one with the addition

to their family.

“I think there’s a special quality to this land. We’ve been through hard times in our lives, but we know that this place has been very healing for us,” Ball shared. “And we have a hope and a desire deep down to share it with people who are healing, who might have gone through recovery from issues – loss or addiction or posttraumatic stress.”

When a horse named Trouper was born on the farm, it was their first experience having a baby horse and it didn’t go very well. There were lots of complications in the beginning during the pandemic when everything was shut down. They pulled together as a family to raise this horse and gave him a chance. Now he’s three years old and thriving.

Out of a bad situation, there was a good outcome, including an uplifting video with over 68 million views on The Dodo YouTube channel bringing

joy to millions around the world.

Attorney Fred Levin, a close friend and business associate, visited the rural sanctuary often during the months of COVID restrictions.

“The week that Trouper was born, he couldn’t stand, and we had to literally hold him up to feed him with a bottle for four days and nights,” Ball said. “Fred and his consigliere, Philip Morris, drove out here in the height of the pandemic. They would pull right up to the fence and look out the window and look at the foal and check in on him.”

Trouper’s recovery created hope and joy even during quarantine. Healing and restoration transcend the physical location of the farm through Ball’s video production business, MediaTech Direct.

“My heart for capturing great stories and documenting the truth about people’s lives is easy to do here at the farm,” Ball said. “I’ve shot a

number of videos and documentaries with Fred Levin, nonprofits and captured other rare conversations that just sounded better with a peacock crowing in the background.”

Morris adds that they jokingly call themselves The Nut Farm and explains how they have expanded in addition to other businesses.

“We raise and sell sheep, horses,

chickens, eggs, peacocks and do horse boarding,” Morris said. “We’ve started to promote my line of pickles and a nut mix Aaron created. All this can be purchased at our little shop at 1737 North Palafox or online.”

If the farm work isn’t enough, Morris has owned a highly respected Pensacola salon, The Parlor Room, for almost 21 years.

“We’re not from big city life,” Ball said. “We really come from hard work; we’re trying to do things with excellence.”

Magi Thomley Williams is a corporate consultant, writer, speaker, and trainer at Thomley Consulting. She can be reached at Magi@ ThomleyConsulting.com

girls night out

Rekindle Friendships at a Candle Pouring Party

By Liz Biggs • Photos by Kate Treick Photography

Are you looking for a fun GNO, birthday party or special occasion activity?

In Detail Candle Studio is your go-to. Unlike canvas or the pottery painting parties of yore, candle making requires no artistic skill and you take home a beautiful, high-quality candle you will actually use. Conveniently located in the historic 1910 carriage house behind 1514 Home in East Hill, candle pouring classes/parties can be booked online or by phone.

Libby Kees, senior designer at In Detail Interiors and candle studio manager, was inspired to create the candle studio by a candle pouring shop she saw in Nashville. The carriage house had been used for storage, but she felt a candle studio would be a great fit for the space.

At a candle pouring class, you will be able to choose your vessel, lid and scent before you are led through the pouring process. All candles are made with ethically sourced premium ingredients: the wax is a luxurious vegan blend made of natural apricot and coconut and the wicks are clean burning, eco-friendly wooden wicks that produce a relaxing soft crackle when lit. The luxury fragrance blends are expertly paired to create a multi-dimensional scent.

Candle pouring classes usually take about 45 minutes and can be booked for four to 10 people (or more if you want to stagger the sittings while guests hang out and party until it’s their turn). The cost is $50 per person. Beverages and snacks are not included but can be brought in. Add-ons for a floral bar, juice bar (bring your own champagne) and balloon arches are available for your party plan. Kees or Gabrielle Thomas, retail design director and events coordinator, are available to discuss your party ideas and help you create a memorable experience.

If you want a high-quality candle but don’t want to sit for the class, you can create a custom candle for $32. Choose your scent and vessel and the In Detail Candle Studio will do the work for you. Also, you can bring back your original vessel and it can be refilled with the scent of your choice for $20.

WHERE TO SHOP

In Detail Candle Studio, 1514 N. Ninth Ave., Pensacola; 850-437-0636; indetailinteriors.com/ candle-studio

Bubbly Beverages

Ah, the Joy of sparkling wines, prosecco and Champagne!

By Magi Thomley Williams • Photos by Kate Treick Photography

Charles “Pepper” Dowdy has been the manager and buyer for Aragon Wine Market since 2017. After over 20 years in the hospitality and fine-dining scene, he has focused on the wine business exclusively for the past eight years and has earned the WSET Level 2 Award in Wines certificate. He enjoys being Aragon Wine Market’s wine concierge for many loyal customers and friends while making exploring new wines fun and exciting rather than elitist or intimidating. Dowdy generously shared his expertise, humor and tasting notes with Bella.

ARAGON WINE MARKET

Aragon Wine Market was one of Pensacola’s first boutique wine shops, opened in 2008 by Charlotte Gordon. For almost 15 years, Gordon has been the sole proprietor and owner. Her motto and the focus of the shop is “unique and affordable.” Aragon Wine Market features producers and brands in all price ranges that are typically found on fine-dining menus or in direct shipments from the wineries. The local wine shopper’s source for recommendations and advice, the wine market offers exceptional customer service, competitive prices and great loyalty rewards. The Cru of Aragon Wine Club is one of the hottest tickets in town for securing member perks and incredible wines at a fraction of the cost elsewhere.

Weekly wine tastings are open to the public on Thursdays from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Guests can sip a glass of wine while shopping or share a bottle of wine in the beautiful courtyard any time they are open. They also offer great rental venue bridal showers, birthday parties, or any small gatherings.

Look for updates on wine events and other news at aragonwinemarket.com

Seriously Sophisticated

Champagne Le Mesnil Blanc de Blancs

Brut Grand Cru 2013 Vintage

This vintage Champagne is the true expression of one of the best chardonnay growing vineyards in the world, Le Mesnil sur Oger, in which 100 percent of the area is rated “Grand Cru” for the chardonnay grape. The entire 100 percent of this bottling is made from chardonnay, expressing beautiful tree fruits and impressive integration of flavor nuance and balanced acidity. The Blanc de Blanc style is a favorite, a brighter, more citrusy expression than a traditional blend, but can sometimes lack the impression of depth, which the extra aging of this vintage bottle brings back to the table.

Did you know?

Champagne gains wonderful secondary aromas and flavors with proper aging, including those of honey, hazelnut and biscuit, and also acquires a toastiness and creaminess with maturity.

Light and Nimble

La Tordera Serrai Valdobbiadene D.O.C.G. Extra Dry Prosecco Superiore - Veneto, Italy

Not your typical grocery-brand prosecco! Delicate notes of bartlett pear with fine, persistent bubbles and medium acidity with a slightly off-dry profile. This extra dry is 11.5 percent alcohol, and although not a brut, it drinks slightly less sweet than most brut Proseccos making it very versatile for pairing with food and occasions. This selection is made from hand-harvested, family-farmed grapes for over 100 years spanning four generations. La Tordera focuses on what they call Natural Balance –sustainable agriculture from an environmental, economic and social point of view. They are Casa-Clima certified and incorporate a closed circuit from the vineyard to the bottle resulting in reduced content of sulfides, low CO2 production and climate benefits of solar energy use.

Did you know?

A bottle of extra dry is not as dry as a brut. If you like truly dry bubbles, always stick to the bottle labeled brut, extra brut, zero brut or brut nature. As confusing as this sounds, dry and extra dry are typically not actually dry. This La Tordera may be the exception!

Classic and Classy

Charles Heidsieck Brut Reserve NV - Reims, Champagne, France

This is an exceptional example of the benchmark expression of Champagne; this reserve bottling contains all three of the allowed varietals: 40 percent pinot noir, 40 percent chardonnay and 20 percent pinot meunier. For under $70, it doesn’t get much better than this – precise balance with a nose of pistachio, brioche and almond, unctuous fleshy fruit and a touch of vanilla on the palate with a persistent finish and super fine bubbles. While the Piper Heidsieck style tends to be fresh and lively, the Charles Heidsieck style is definitively richer as a result of their intense blending methods.

Did you know?

A well-made standard 750ml bottle of Champagne can release up to five million tiny bubbles of effervescence, with about three times the carbonation of a typical beer and is under about three times the pressure of a standard car tire. Champagne bottle-related deaths outpace those related to poisonous spider bites – so be careful at your next wedding!

Modern and Trendy

Perelada ‘Stars’ Touch of Rosé Brut Cava 2018 - Catalonia, Spain

A beautiful bottling that doesn’t break the bank. Goes perfectly with your best cocktail attire and entertaining friends on long summer nights. This Rosé Brut is 11.5 percent ABV and made with 85 percent grenache (or garnacha, as the Catalonians call it), and 15 percent pinot noir. Just a hint of fresh berries on the nose and finish created from only 2018 vintage fruit.

Did you know?

Ever notice how it can be difficult to find affordable bubbles that aren’t too sweet? Cava may be your answer. The residual sugar in inexpensive bubbles can be used to cover up the otherwise unappealing flaws of cheap production. Cava is made following strict guidelines similar to Champagne – much stricter than most Prosecco standards. Although Cava is most often made with different grapes than Champagne, if the enjoyment of the bubble’s texture and persistence is most important to you, try Cava for an affordable value.

Fun and Eclectic

Sula Crémant de Nashik Brut Tropicale

Sparkling Wine - Nashik Valley, India

Yep, you read that correctly. This wildly colorful bottle from India, with the word “Tropicale” on it, belies the fact that this is still a fairly dry and straight-forward approach to bubbles. It is 70 percent chenin blanc and 30 percent riesling and syrah, which is reminiscent of a nice Loire Valley French Crémant in expression. It offers a colorful addition to salads and fish dishes, and really sparkles with mussels and clams.

Did you know?

Nashik Valley, India, is now the home to more than 52 wineries, and is designated the Wine Capital of India. The region successfully hosts almost all the most popular and common varietals of grapes.

& drink

One-meal grill recipes food

By Bradley “Beej” Davis, Jr.

Grilling is a social affair.

Whether it’s the slow, smokey burn of charcoal or the efficiency and ease of propane, this outdoor pastime tends to bring friends and family around the “barbie.” The spectacular thing about grilling is the versatility of meal prep. Albeit “burgers and dogs” are a sizzling staple, in many cases entire meals can be prepared in one spot, which means more time with those friends and family members and perhaps even fewer dishes.

Here are some one-meal grill recipes we found that are not only tasty but also healthy!

Photos by Kate Treick Photography

Ground Turkey & Black Bean Taco Wraps

Courtesy of Bradley “Beej” Davis, Jr.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb. lean ground turkey

• 3-4 bell peppers (assorted colors based on preference)

• 2 ripe avocados

• 1 large white onion

• 1 15 oz. can of black beans, drained (seasoned or unseasoned based on preference)

• 1 packet taco seasoning

• 3 tbsp. olive oil

• 1 8-pack tortilla wraps

• Aluminum foil

Directions

Heat grill to medium heat for propane, or glowing coals for charcoal. Slice onions, peppers and avocados. Set aside avocado slices, as you will be adding these to the wraps later. Remove tortilla wraps from packaging and place into an aluminum foil pouch and set aside.

Place cast iron skillet on grill and heat 2 tbsp. of olive oil. When oil is glistening, add onions, peppers and half of taco seasoning pack and sauté. When vegetables are soft, carefully remove from skillet. Add 1 tbsp. (remaining) of olive oil and heat. Add ground turkey to skillet and brown. Once turkey is cooked thoroughly, add black beans and remaining taco seasoning, stir until combined. Warm a foil pouch of tortilla wraps on the grill for 3-5 minutes. Now, simply grab a warm tortilla wrap and add in the turkey and black bean mixture along with some sautéed veggies and sliced avocados.

Hobo Steak & Veggie Dinner

Courtesy of Parade Magazine

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour

• 3 tbsp. Worcestershire

• 1/2 tsp. garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp. onion powder

• 1 large round steak, cut into 3 to 4 pieces and tenderized

• Salt

• Pepper

• 3 medium red potatoes, thinly sliced

• 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced

• 1 small white onion, thinly sliced

• 1 medium green pepper, seeded and thinly sliced

• 2 tbsp. olive oil

• 1 tsp. dried parsley

Directions

Heat grill to medium heat for propane, or glowing coals for charcoal. In a small bowl combine Worcestershire, garlic powder and onion powder. Brush both sides of each steak liberally with marinade. Season with salt and pepper.

In a large bowl, combine potatoes, carrots, onion, green pepper, olive oil, parsley, salt and pepper. Toss gently to coat vegetables in oil.

Place each piece of steak on a sheet of heavy-duty aluminum foil. Divide veggies equally among each sheet. Wrap each sheet of foil tightly around steak and veggies. Wrap each packet again in a second piece of foil.

Place foil packets on grill and cook on medium for 10 minutes. Reduce heat to low and continue cooking for 45 minutes to 1 hour until meat is done and veggies tender, turning occasionally.

COCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Scrap House by artist Sally Heller; Diana at NOMA Sculpture Garden; New Orleans street scene.

worth the trip

REVISITED New Orleans

By Magi Thomley

I’ve visited New Orleans many times, even lived in a suburb, Kenner, for a few years.

My travel accommodations have included classic French Quarter hotels like Hotel Monteleone and Royal Sonesta Hotel, and out-of-the way Airbnb apartments. I’ve enjoyed boutique hotels in the Marigny and Garden District neighborhoods, and the hospitality of friends. I spent one Christmas in a hotel haunted by the ghosts of civil war soldiers who died in the building when it served as a hospital.

I’ve dined at landmark restaurants like Antoine’s and Mother’s. I’ve been given a private tour of the kitchen in Commanders Palace, been turned away from Court of Two Sisters because my companion was under dressed and washed down the powdered sugar from beignets at Café Du Monde with café au lait more times than I can count.

I’ve enjoyed a ride in a horse-driven carriage and made more than one toast at the Carousel Bar & Lounge. I’ve walked through the French Market and along the Riverwalk dozens of times.

My husband decided on a weekend in the Crescent City for his birthday this year, but we wanted a different experience.

We stayed at a newly remodeled chain hotel in the Warehouse District. The service was outstanding, and the location was convenient (but I could have done without being startled awake by a cruise ship’s horn announcing a

2 a.m. return to port). We explored out-ofthe-way eateries and lesser-known points of interest.

Sunday, we leisurely strolled through the New Orleans Museum of Art and adjacent Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden. The NOMA website boasts that it houses 5,000 years of art with over 40,000 works, and the adjoining Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden is home to over 90 works of art set in a picturesque outdoor setting of meandering pathways and meticulously maintained gardens. We wanted to bypass restaurants we had experienced before where we knew we would be sharing space with crowds of fellow tourists. Instead, we visited smaller eateries and chatted up the locals. One breakfast we dined at Two Chicks Café, which offers a full cocktail menu at 8 a.m. Once New Orleans was one of the few places where a breakfast menu included cocktails. Now, full bar service at breakfast is readily available at locations in Pensacola, including South Market, Ruby Slipper and Another Broken Egg. It’s not lost to me that more than a few restaurants in Pensacola have roots in the Big Easy.

We walked from our hotel to Cochon Butcher for outdoor dining. This is the place for carnivores! The manager, Jacques Couvillon, took time to share with us that the charcuteries are made in house. During a chat over refreshing cocktails, scrumptious BBQ sandwiches and house-made slaw, we

Williams • Photos by Jackson Williams

COCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Mardi Gras mask; Lynda Benglis Sculpture, Brindaban Pink; lunch at Cochon Butcher; Cochon Butcher.

learned that the owners of Kingfisher in Pensacola were formerly chef and pastry chef for the New Orleans-based restaurant family that owns Butcher. Brian Kaderavek was executive sous chef at high-end restaurant Cochon for five years where wife Amanda Kaderavek worked as a pastry chef and as manager of Cochon Butcher. I know I’m not alone in being grateful that the pair brought their culinary talents from New Orleans to Pensacola.

We are no longer compelled to visit the Crescent City for craft beer or novel coffee. Pensacola is home to multiple breweries producing locally made beer. The once-unique Café Du Monde now has many locations and coffee houses are percolating on every corner – New Orleans and elsewhere. We drank lattes rather than the chicory coffee New Orleans is credited for. To get our jazz fix, we avoided the crowded House of Blues, a popular

tourist destination. Instead, we opted for cozier performances by talented artists in open courtyards and parks.

Landmarks like Jackson Square, the French Market and the French Quarter have been the same for decades, yet different. Lines are still long at Pat O’Brien’s, but Bourbon Street chaos is fueled more by pot than booze these days. The psychics that occupy Jackson Square lose some of their mystique staring at their cell phones between clients.

Eventually, conversations with New Orleanians include the phrase “before Katrina.” We stopped for a photo of the now-famous sculpture Scrap House by artist Sally Heller. Heller recreated a scene entirely from common and recycled elements to depict a postKatrina home in shambles and resting in the branches of a decimated tree. The work is described as a monument to nature’s unpredictable powers.

Katrina has decidedly left a mark on the economy, the skyline and the people of the city. Buildings damaged by the hurricane have been razed, rebuilt or restored. Harrah’s casino is being transformed into a behemoth Caesars New Orleans, expected to be completed in the summer of 2024. Perhaps a new adventure for our next visit.

Memories of the Audubon Aquarium, river cruises and even cemetery tours are gratifying, but our destination grew more intimate this visit. We discovered colorful, hardscrabble residents, exciting entertainment in out of the way places and delicious food in uncrowded venues. While New Orleans has become more predictable and less unique, it will always be a city where visitors can “pass a good time” as the locals say. A revisit gave us a refreshingly different perspective on a familiar destination.

out&about

Gather in the Garden

Many gathered on the evening of May 11 at 5eleven Palafox to benefit the American Heart Association’s education and research efforts. A seated multi-course dinner was prepared by multiple local chefs along with live entertainment and a live auction.

Photos by Lakesha Davis

Steven Miller, Thomas Babcock, Hunter Babcock, Larry Kuhn, Samantha Kuhn, Stevie Welch, Anthony Mazzurco, Katin Davis, Drew Lick

Rebecca Murlin, Jenni Anderson, Katie Schutts, Hong Potomski

Anne Frenchette, Paul Frenchette, Peggy Woolverton

Mary Gamble, Grier Noyes

Maureen & Danny Gomez

Wendy McCullar, Tara Dominguez

Sarah & Jason Singletary

Eleanor Massey, Sarah Bair, Betsy Dalmer

Gaye Overholtz, Addie Murdoch

Charles Houston, Carly Borden, Kierre Stover, Jack Hayward

DJ Boulangger, Michele Schamberger, Gaye Overholtz

Hammer Davis, Madrina Ciano

Suze Finger, Paige Hering

Pete Bailey, Ashley Bailey, Barbara Rouillier, Jeff Rouillier

Alyssa Tucker, Ashley Cole, Mary Mehta, Lady Moore

Jihan Cote, Marlana DiSanto

John & Kristina Gormley

Jenny Romey, Dana Hof

Teri Levin, Peggy Butler, Robin Zimmern Spencer

Kristin Bouchard, Allie Simmons, Brooke Parkhurst

Briana Snellgrove, Whitney Lee

out&about

Pink Ribbons for Hope Fashion Show

Photos by Lakesha Davis

Rhonda Simkins, KC Gartman, Jeannette Chandler, Brenda Carraway

The first annual Pink Ribbons for Hope Fashion Show was held at Pensacola Yacht Club on May 10. The event raised over $8,000 benefiting Baptist Hospital’s mammogram fund. Models showcased apparel by Lee Tracy Pensacola and Don Alan.

Lyden Foxworth, Balie Cross, Beth Cross

Emily Wolf, Jada Leahy

Carol Roberts, Natasha Sluder

Joy Pace, Sarah Lefevers

Sandy Pyle, Jeannette Chandler

Jane Busey, Brenda Summersell

Celeste Whisenant, Melanie Doremus

Sarah Soule Wells, Angie Kennedy, Nicole Ferry, Innes Richards, Linda Williams, Meghan McMillan, Helen Welch, Kyrah Drasheff

Cathy Williams, Wilmer Steele, Monette Payne, Pat Dickson, Becky Yonge, Deb Watts, Pam Mitchell, Brenda Caraway

KC Gartman, Rhonda Simkins

Bonnie Jennings, Jenifer Smith, Shonna Gomes, Amy Cozart, Jamie Cade, Kristen Mcgrew, Shannon Roberts, Edi Hodges, Jill Bartling

Janie Clarke, Jeannette Fabbro, Donna Madison, Amy Harrison

Carol Patterson, Kelsey McHargue, Jamie LaPointe

Ricki McWilliams, Anita Baker

Honey Harris, Jen Kinsella, Anna Wright

Annabelle Gonzalez, Morgan Gonzalez

out&about

Junior League of Pensacola’s Evening in White

Junior League of Pensacola held its annual event on May 21. This year the event was a pop-up blanc themed picnic where attendees wear all white attire. Attendees provide the table decor and bring their own picnic baskets. The location of the event is always a mystery and not revealed until the day of the event. This year it was held at the beautiful Sander’s Beach - Corinne Jones Resource Center. Proceeds benefited the Junior League of Pensacola, which is a women’s volunteer organization striving to empower women through community service.

Photos by Lakesha Davis

Nicole Custer, Maegan Mapoles, Jennifer Naylor

Emily Ehlinger, Labarian Turner

Laura Griffin, Dannon Byrd

John McCorvey, Cicely Ford

Charlyn Gould, Samone White

Amber Faulk, Kim Polk, Jackie Karssin, Linzi Yager, Kelly Wilson, Sonja Bishop, Jill Mealy, Missy Barnes

Na’Shandra Edwards, Lateadra Baldwin, Liz Huffteller, Darla Cohoon

Ellen & John McDavis, Juile & Mark Kabacinski

Madison Bales, Tyler Kuczynski, Nick Sharp, Amiee Dumas, Brad Sanders, Maegan Leonard, Ryan Ruebenson

Tristan and Nate Sebastian Katherine Creel, Peyton Kohr

Keith & Caress Hudson

Ebony Cornish, Kenosha Stallworth

Stephanie Sharpton, Shauna White

Jennifer and Willie Demps

Andrew McLellan, Rachel Mock

Amelia Moore, Sarah Roberston

Celeste Whisenant, Michele Lamar-Acuff, Carolyn Brown, Patty Hutto, Dee Barlow

Rose Molchan, Jean Quinn, Jennifer Richardson, Mo Padden

What Inspires You? her perspective

Sometimes I sit down to write this column and nothing comes to mind. I spoke to a friend about this and he said, “Well just go with it – write about nothing.” I tried to channel my inner Seinfeld but all that resulted was a blank page. And the word Seinfeldian but I used that last month.

Music inspires me so I listened to “Nothing from Nothing” by Billy Preston, “Nothing to Say” by the Kinks and “Money for Nothing” by Dire Straits.

Still a blank page.

Then I turned to books. Books never let me down. They are always there for me, chock-full of inspiration. One of my favorite books by Merriam-Webster conveyed this to me: inspiration means to breathe life into. Whoa, that’s deep.

Hoping something fantastic would flow out, I took a deep breath. Alas, nothing but coffee breath. Back to the books.

My book club recently read “The Bluest Eye” by Toni Morrison. In the afterword, Morrison explains she was inspired to write this book by a conversation she had in elementary school with a little girl who longed for blue eyes.

“Implicit in her desire,” Morrison observed, “was racial selfloathing.”

The author wondered how her friend had internalized society’s racist beauty standards at such a young age.

Another recent book club book was “Remarkably Bright Creatures” by Shelby Van Pelt. Asked about her inspiration for the story, Van Pelt said, “I was in this writing class, the first writing class I’ve ever taken. The teacher gave us a writing exercise to write from an unusual point of view. And I thought, I’m gonna be an octopus and talk about how frustrated I am at these silly humans that are such an inferior species, and here I am the one that’s contained. That ended up becoming the first chapter of the book.”

One of my favorite books is “A Prayer for Owen Meany” by John Irving. Irving, like Morrison, based Owen Meany

on a childhood friend. The author was home in Exeter, New Hampshire, for Christmas in the early ’80s, where he and his childhood friends were discussing other friends who had gone to Vietnam and never came back, or who had come back but were messed up from the experience. “A Prayer for Owen Meany” is full of homages to other novels. “Many writers become writers because of something they read. Homage is simply recognizing and acknowledging your ancestors,” said Irving in an interview with the Denver Post.

Hmmm, still a blank page. Maybe I should take an inspirational writing class. Where is my snarky octopus voice when I need it?

Or focus on an inspirational childhood friend. Just then, easily distracted, I heard a thwap at my doorstep. A package! A birthday gift from my sister –a book! She sent me “The Creative Act: A Way of Being” by Rick Rubin. How did she know?

Like magic, I opened it up to a random page and this is what I read, “Most of what we see in the world holds the potential to inspire astonishment if looked at from a less jaded perspective Train yourself to see the awe behind the obvious. Look at the world from this vantage point as often as possible. Submerge yourself.”

In the nick of time, the muse slipped into my house and into my psyche by stowing away in an Amazon box. She shows up the day before deadline every month!

Two more quotes from Rubin’s book spoke to me: “Look for what you notice but no one else sees.”

“The real work of an artist is a way of being in the world. A hunger to see beautiful things, hear beautiful sounds, feel deeper sensations. To learn, and to be fascinated and surprised on a continual basis.”

Color me inspired. I will continue my journey – hungry to see beautiful things, hear beautiful sounds and feel deeper sensations. I want to see the awe behind the obvious. I want to notice what no one else sees. And write about it.

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.