By Stephenie Craig, LCSW A few months ago, I found my brain scattered, tired, and generally tense. When I slowed to reflect I realized I was carrying stress outside my awareness. Juggling work, home, parenting, relationships, life transitions, emails, texts, news, professional research, social media, etc. was overwhelming my brain. These activities weren’t unhealthy, but the output of my life was out of balance. I took a social media break and noticed quickly I felt better. That break has become a more permanent practice as I’ve remembered that what we put in, our life input, significantly impacts how we show up daily in life, our life output. Do you ever find yourself trying to make an external change and it just isn’t working? Maybe you’re trying to reduce stress, increase joy, improve a relationship, or live less overwhelmed. You may keep trying to make adjustments to the output of your life without slowing down to consider how the input might need to be adjusted. In reality, true change happens from the inside out. In our fast, achievement-focused, entertainment-hungry culture, it’s easy to become desensitized to anxiety-inducing input available daily. You wake up to news, social media, political commentary. You are inundated with messaging about how you aren’t enough, you need to be better, you need to have more. You are told who is right, who you should be against, what you should fear, what you should know, and how the world is going to hell in a handbasket. It’s... Read More

  By David Holland, “As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, ‘Lord, don’t you care my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!’” “‘Martha, Martha,’ the Lord answered, ‘you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.’” (Luke 10:38-42, NIV) Mothers serve and provide the loving environment that empowers a life worth living. Thank God for the mothers who give themselves faithfully to their families, jobs, homes, and provide stability in a chaotic world. But Moms, when is it time to stop and focus on Christ? Jesus shows us the key to balancing love and service. Most moms swing between serving and nurturing. Jesus speaks to this common human contradiction. Martha was doing all the work. Yet Mary gets the commendation. It seems so unfair until you look at it more closely. Martha had invited Jesus into her home and was bustling about making the preparations, but inside her head criticism brewed. “Why do I have to do all the work? Why doesn’t lazy ole Mary help around here?... Read More

  By Kirk McCarley, As the parent of adult children, one of the disciplines I’ve tried to stick to has been refraining from giving advice.  Without doubt I’ve fallen short of that aspiration at times. I have shared with my son, daughter, and their respective spouses that one of the greatest gifts they can give is the act of asking for advice.  On those occasions where advice is sought interestingly, my responses are often rhetorical, where the first comment is to ask them, “what do you think you should do?” I aim to also say, “thank you for asking for my opinion.”  To be viewed as a sage of wise counsel and thought is of highest esteem. Years ago, I worked for a mayor in a small community, an elected official.  There was another office holder in a somewhat complementary agency who was garnering a reputation as being outspoken, surly, and often rude.  It was vital that the two officials enjoy a compatible working relationship for the sake of not only their respective jurisdictions, but in serving the public well. The mayor shared his story. “I invited him to lunch.  Once seated, as expected he went through a laundry list of things that he found disagreeable:  road and bridge issues, law enforcement, and intergovernmental relations.  His complaints could be wearisome, but again I was accustomed to his laments.  Amid his soap box, came a sigh and a pause.  He hesitated, turned towards me and asked why he was not achieving... Read More

  By Victoria Ostrosky Being married is a good thing and being single is a good thing.  As the Apostle Paul said, whether you’re married or single is good.  Serving God and living for Him is the most important thing. For older adults, in Christian circles, being single can be a little difficult.  It seems that most church functions are geared toward married couples.  Unless, of course, you’re a teen-ager or young adult. Which can be a deterrent for some.  Who wants to show up and sit by themselves or feel like they have nothing to contribute in a group of married couples? Andrew Farmer, originally from Jacksonville, has lived in the Destin area for about 11 years.  He was raised in a Christian home with a praying mom.  As Andrew says, “you can never outrun a praying mom.”  For some years he was into partying and drugs and alcohol.  But Jesus got ahold of him, and he’s been sober for 3 years.  “Once you eliminate those things, you have more room for Jesus.” Andrew admits that it’s tough being single.  He has a wonderful 12 year-old son whom he loves and focuses on.  But being in your mid-thirties and single means he can get lonely, especially on weekends.  So, Andrew has learned to find more ways to serve to not only fill up the time, but immerse himself in a Godly environment to assist in his spiritual growth. “I know God has someone for me.  I pray for my... Read More

  Pickle’s, located at 2236 East County Hwy. 30A, is celebrating three decades in business at their original Seaside Central Square location. Founded in 1993 by Bill and Heavenly Dawson, of The Dawson Group, Pickle’s began with only 48 square feet and a limited menu consisting of hotdogs, beer, and pickles. The locally owned and operated eatery quickly became famous for their burgers and hand-spun milkshakes. Throughout the years, Pickle’s has become an unofficial landmark in the Seaside community and is one of the few establishments that has remained in the same location along Seaside Square. In 2023, 30A’s® Hot Spot Awards named Pickle’s the Hottest Spot for Burgers. After 32 years in business, the Dawsons sold their company consisting of the five notable Seaside restaurants, including Dawson’s Yogurt, It’s Heavenly Shortcakes and Ice Cream, Pickle’s, The Shrimp Shack, and Wild Bill’s Beach Dogs, to Clark and Ashley Beecher of Houston, Texas. Since the acquisition, the Beechers along with their local operating partners Baron and Courtney Fields, have remained true to the roots of The Dawson Group while also incorporating innovative systems, additional menu items, modern concepts, and merchandise to each of the restaurants, including Pickle’s. They have developed a new brand identity for Pickle’s that remains true to its history yet shines a new light on the retro diner that appeals to a younger audience as well as their long-time customers. “As Texans, there were a lot of special dishes that we loved and wanted to bring to 30A,”... Read More

  May 6 Jazz on the Lawn @ Seaside Amphitheater Enjoy an afternoon of LIVE jazz in the Seaside Amphitheater on Saturday, May 6th from 1 – 7PM. Jazz on the Lawn features a full lineup on jazz musicians ready to entertain the whole family. Bring a chair or blanket, snacks and drinks, and enjoy the show. Free and open to all ages. Jazz on the Lawn artists include: La’Roy Bodiford, Ramblin’ Roses, Dharma Beats, Kenny Cohen, Kayonne Riley’s Implications, Michael Levine Band. Seaside Amphitheater, 25 Central Square, Seaside. Tuesdays, May 9, 16, 23, 30   Casey Kearney Band @ Red Fish Taco                                                                             Rock out to live music featuring Casey Kearney Band every Tuesday in the Garden Room at Red Fish Taco from 6 – 9PM. Tuesdays | 6 – 9PM. Red Fish Taco, 2052 W County Highway 30A, Santa Rosa Beach. May 12 Brandi Carlile’s Mothership Weekend Brandi Carlile’s Mothership Weekend will be held at Seascape Resort in Miramar Beach, Florida May 12 -14. Brandi Carlile invites you and yours to celebrate Mother’s Day in a whole new way – with a 3-day music vacation in Miramar Beach, Fl. Enjoy curated activities, unforgettable adventures, and plenty of relaxing beach time during the day before you cozy up together in your reserved Cove... Read More

  Studying music is a rewarding experience for students of any age, and in recent years online lessons have made it much, much easier to access. The growing popularity of online music lessons comes with many benefits, like the flexibility to learn from anywhere, at any time, and without the need to travel. However, choosing between in-person and online lessons can be a tough decision to make – each type of lesson comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages, and it ultimately depends on the student’s preferences and lifestyle. So, which type of lesson is right for you? Here are some factors to consider. In-Person Music Lessons The in-person approach has been the typical method of learning music for centuries. The physical presence of the teacher allows for a more hands-on approach, where they can observe and give feedback on the student’s posture, technique, and progress. This can be particularly helpful for beginners who need extra guidance on playing their instrument with optimum comfort and technique, for example keeping the fretting hand relaxed when playing guitar, or moving the hands and wrists freely on the piano. In-person lessons also offer a great social aspect. Students can develop respect and friendship with their teachers (and each other in group classes) in order to build a closer community and inspiration to learn. As an added bonus, the accountability of an in-person class motivates the student to show up and perform their best. Online Music Lessons  Online lessons can be especially... Read More

  Mold is a type of fungus that grows in damp or humid conditions. It can be found almost anywhere, including on walls, ceilings, floors, and even in the air we breathe. While mold is a natural part of our environment, it can become a serious health hazard when it grows out of control. Mold can cause a variety of health problems, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems, allergies, asthma, or other respiratory issues. Some of the health risks associated with mold exposure include: Respiratory Problems: Mold spores can trigger allergic reactions, asthma attacks, and other respiratory problems. Inhaling mold can irritate the lungs and cause coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. Allergic Reactions: Some people are allergic to mold and may experience symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and skin rashes. Toxic Reactions: Some types of mold produce mycotoxins, which can cause serious health problems such as neurological damage, organ damage, and even death. Stachybotrys chartarum, also known as black mold, is one of the most dangerous types of mold. Infections: Individuals with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to mold infections, which can cause serious health complications. Given these risks, it’s essential to remediate mold as soon as possible to protect your health and well-being. However, not all mold remediation services are created equal. While some homeowners may attempt to remove mold themselves using bleach or other household cleaners, this approach can be dangerous and ineffective. Professional mold remediation services like APEX Disaster Specialists use state-of-the-art... Read More

  Fridays with Friends – May 12th from 10 AM – Noon Each “Fridays with Friends” program will be open from 10 AM until noon.  Coastal Seniors will welcome members, who are 50 years and older, to our office to participate in activities, such as: card games, board games, ping pong, bingo, art classes, exercise classes, etc.  If you are interested in any of these activities, please let us know so that our volunteers can prepare. You can contact us by calling 850-280-5342, or by sending an email to: coastalseniorsofsouthwalton@gmail.com. Game Day at Somerby on Wednesdays May 10TH, 17TH,   24TH and 31st  from 2:00-4:00 p.m. Somerby of Santa Rosa Beach is located at 164 W. Hewett Rd., Santa Rosa Beach.  Melissa Bailey, CSSW member will host game day. Melissa teaches and plays many games such as Hand & Foot, 5 Crowns, Euchre, Mexican Train Dominoes, and more. Refresh your skills or learn a new game.  Local seniors and Walton County snowbirds are welcome! Call/text Sonia at 850-280-5342 or email coastalseniorsofsouthwalton@gmail.com if you have questions. Chair Yoga at The Blake in Miramar Beach– May 2nd and 16th at 9:45 am – Join us for our chair yoga classes led by Colleen at The Blake at 90 Ponce De Leon St. in Miramar Beach. Art Classes – Karen Peterson will teach CSSW members Beginner Watercolor Painting on Tuesdays in May (9th, 16th,   and 23rd) 9am-Noon. Cost is $22 for CSSW members/$30 for non-members. Sign up by calling 850-280-5342, or by sending an... Read More

  May 9 ECTC: Spring Cabaret at the Boulevard                                                                             Join Emerald Coast Theatre Company for Spring Cabaret at the Boulevard on Tuesday, May 9 at 7:30PM. Mix, mingle and enjoy live musical selections performed by talented actors. All ECTC productions will be staged at ECTC’s space located upstairs at 560 Grand Boulevard in Grand Boulevard Town Center, located in Miramar Beach. For additional info, visit www.emeraldcoasttheatre.org. Emerald Coast Theatre Company, 560 Grand Blvd (Upstairs) Miramar Beach. Baytowne Wednesday Night Concert Series                                                             Welcome to The Village of Baytowne Wharf where live music concerts take place in the Baytowne Events Plaza every Wednesday night from 7-9pm. Various local and regional artists perform throughout the year – see the lineup. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets. Free and open to the public. Baytowne Wednesday Night Concerts May 2023 | 7PM – 9PM – May 10: Dion Jones & The Neon Tears, May 17: Shenanigans May 24: Casey Kearney, May 31: Horseshoe Kitty. The Village of Baytowne Wharf, 9100 Baytowne Blvd. Miramar Beach. May 13-20 Longleaf Writers Conference                  ... Read More