Golden, thick, and sweet, honey is a staple in many of my favorite dishes. I’ve recently learned about the variety of flavors and healthy benefits that make raw, hand-poured honey a nutritional superstar. Little did I know, honey has a mysterious counterpart that many healers have been using for centuries—bee pollen—and it’s becoming all the rage. So, I headed over to my favorite honey shop, Capital Bee Company (CBCo) in Savannah, to find out why it’s all the buzz.

What Is Bee Pollen?
It’s one of the richest natural foods ever discovered. Bee pollen is a granule created from pollen dust of flower blossoms. The incredible nutritional and medicinal value of pollen has been known for thousands of years and is known as nature’s most complete food.

Before I was a walker, I was a runner — a slow, lumbering, back-of-the-pack runner. When I discovered racewalking, I found my sport. And since then, I’ve become a ferocious fan of every style of walking: all ages, speeds, styles and sexes. (If only walking were, somehow, a sexier sport.)

I could fill the rest of this column and several more spelling out all the wonderful things walking will do for your body and your mind. It’s great for your brain, your strength, for every cell in your body, for calming yourself mentally and boosting your energy physically.

It’s also the perfect antidote to the crazed, stepped-up pace of life today, when too much technology walks all over our human need to slow down and ... how can I put this ... think.

We were never supposed to leave our beach vacation early to plan a funeral for our 3-year-old son. And, yet, within the course of one week, we had driven to the beach, returned without him, and held his funeral. 

Do you know drowning is the leading cause of death in children ages 1-4 and the second leading cause of death in ages 1-14? Do you know that 69 percent of children who drown are not expected to be swimming, yet they are found in water? Do you know that a child can drown in less than one minute? 

Unfortunately, I know these facts all too well; on June 10, 2018, my 3-year-old son, Levi, drowned while on vacation in Fort Morgan, Alabama. 

There is a misconception that drowning only happens when you are swimming. But, drowning also happens when you are 200 feet away from a pool, upstairs, eating Cheetos, wearing your neon yellow crab-hunting shirt, when you leave your mom’s side, even though you are usually Velcro-ed to her. Drowning isn’t splashing and yelling.

Like millions of people around the world, I was riveted to the recent rescue of the 12 Thai boys and their soccer coach who had been trapped in the deepest, darkest, most terrifying recesses of Tham Luang cave.

I marveled at the bravery, pored over the escape route and tried many times over to pronounce the name of the Thai king, Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarangkun, without losing consciousness.

In the end, a miracle! A magnificent multinational effort to do the impossible. The Wild Boars came out alive! OK, they needed a little anti-anxiety medication: being hauled underwater, for hours, in the dark, over treacherous terrain, in a plastic cocoon, breathing through a face mask, wouldn’t you?

One Thai volunteer diver, Saman Gunan, died, which was tragic. But this was such an astonishing story of courage, determination and success against all odds that it shouted out “healthy lifestyle column,” with lessons to be learned about attaining and sustaining our own personal well-being.

These days, thanks to the smartphones most of us carry in our purses or pockets,
the smart solution to just about any situation is just a swipe away! In keeping with our
August #smartypants theme, Pink staffers share their favorite smart apps.

For a good deal of my life, I lived under a dark cloud of fear that I would end up financially destitute—a bag lady. Studies reveal that I’m not the only one. Most of us have felt that way, not because we’re broke but because we lack confidence. That makes us timid, worried and financially insecure.

Look, we don’t have to accept financial insecurity as some kind of life sentence. And that constant and gnawing fear of becoming destitute? Forget it! We can do something about this.

Become a saver. Saving money is like magic because it changes your attitude and calms your fears. I saved my way out of a six-figure pile of debt. Knowing I had cash tucked away in a safe place quieted my insatiable desires. That is where I found my determination to stick with repaying the debt. You must start now, today—no matter your situation, even if you are in debt and struggling to catch up, and even if you are already contributing to a 401(k) plan at work. This is different. You need money in the bank to boost your financial confidence.

Dear Carrie: 

I am a 65-year-old widow and am considering getting married again. What financial steps should I take before I tie the knot? –A Reader

Dear Reader: This is a great question—and one worth considering at any age. Marriage is about love, but it also impacts your money. And the financial implications can be even more significant when both partners have had time to acquire and manage assets for many years. This can be especially true for a second marriage.

And it’s not just about numbers. There’s an emotional side to marrying your finances. You need to examine your own feelings about such things as financial independence and also take into account the feelings of your loved ones, particularly adult children.

There’s a lot to consider—both practical and personal. To me, it’s not just about understanding the financial issues on your own but about coming to an understanding with your partner. Although it may feel uncomfortable, it’s important to talk openly and honestly about your finances with your partner.

Here are some things to consider together.

Eleanor Roosevelt, first lady, social activist, and ultimate #smartypants once said, “Happiness is not a goal; it is a by-product.” Happiness cannot be pursued on its own; it is a by-product of a lifetime of choices and, yes, a little luck, too.

Since most of us haven’t figured out how to create our own luck yet, the next best thing is to make smart decisions for the future. Career, money, fitness and recreation are just some of the building blocks for a happy, healthy life.

So, let’s make the process a little easier by learning about
the newest smarty pants trends of 2018.

Personal well-being is very personal. It’s not about the size of your belly or how many crunches you can do, and it’s certainly not about how many times you’ve been to the gym in the last week. Or year. Decade, anyone?

So play along with me here: On a scale of one to 10, with 10 being the top of Mount Everest for health and happiness, where would you put yourself right now, today, when it comes to your personal well-being? No excuses, no regrets, no judging—just a number between one and 10.

Think for a minute. Take a few breaths. This is called “tuning in.”

Whatever number you came up with, here’s the very good news: You already have the talent, skill and ability to crank it up a notch, if you want to, if you’re resilient. And you can do it as soon as this summer. But how does change happen? Here’s a handy primer, a short and simple list of steps to follow that will make you more likely to succeed.

Get ready to light up your summer with fun fashion that explodes with American style. Wearing red, white and blue has long been a classic way to put some patriotic passion into your wardrobe, but this year, it’s all about new ways to sizzle. Set off some fashion fireworks with these sparklers.

Romp and roll. What could be easier and breezier than onesies? One-piece shorts and tops are cool picks for Fourth of July picnics and parties.

Play polo. Want to experience “elevated Americana”? Designer Ralph Lauren may be the ultimate purveyor of American style, and this summer the folks at Ralph Lauren are offering their iconic mesh Polo shirt embroidered with an eagle and historical flags to celebrate their U.S. heritage.

There’s something special about the relationship a man has with his chair. Curiously, we wanted to see some of the chairs our local Glynn County men are attached to, and therefore, went looking for a few good men. We did a good job finding them, and not only did they have a favorite “chair,” creative as it may be, but a lot of heart as well!

I’ve never been much of a binger, but recently I had a humbling experience that gave me new insights into binge-eating... not to mention a bad case of the bloats.

Suddenly, without warning, away from home and visiting family in Florida (who are blameless), I found myself unable to resist Cool Ranch Doritos. Morning, noon and especially at night, I was consumed by consumption.

What Paisley Magazine has meant to me over the years and the unique way Paisley connects with our community:

“Seven years ago, while I was in the office waiting for a doctor’s appointment, I saw the cover of Paisley Magazine featuring women who were beautiful, bold, colorful, and distinguished looking. I started reading articles, which I found heartfelt and emotional. I felt a personal connection, and that God was touching me, reaching out and blessing people with this magazine. Paisley Magazine has made a big difference to our community and to me especially, because they allow me to sing spiritual songs at their functions.”
-Liz Luke; reader, Partini patron.

It’s time to make the shift into summer and lighten up your wardrobe. Take some time off from those serious statement clothes and brighten up your fashion outlook on life. We all need a little vacation break...even if we’re not lounging on a cruise ship...but just grilling and chilling in the backyard. Here are 10 must-haves to put on your summer shopping list.

Find Your Rainbow. Rainbow stripes will definitely put you in a good mood—and fast. Bold Crayola colors are popping up in breezy dresses, kimono robes and swimwear everywhere. Even accessories get the rainbow treatment in shoes and handbags. 

Taking her love of gardening to another small, but significant level, Elizabeth Millen, our publisher, recently experienced a fun afternoon learning all about miniature gardening from ACE Garden’s “miniature and all things gardening” expert Freda Tawney. Elizabeth learned how to create her own miniature garden, and it has brought her great joy.

Stoking whimsical creativeness, miniature gardening is has gained great popularity at ACE Garden on St. Simons Island, where they have dedicated almost two aisles to this art form. We found a plethora of mini-garden creatures, characters (think tiny yard art) adorable cast trees and shrubs, reflecting balls, castles, huts, fairies of all sizes, as well as all shapes and sizes of containers, vessels, bowls, drawers, hanging containers, light and heavy pots. Add potting soil, rocks, gravel, sand and moss in a variety of colors, shapes and sizes and it’s a garden; each with a story to tell.

“Adam” is a guy I’ve created to illustrate one big and fascinating idea from a new book by British psychotherapist William Pullen: Movement is medicine.

Yes! Forget the word “exercise” for now. Just moving our bodies—walking, dancing, jogging, preferably in nature—can help free us from stress, emotional pain and whatever else we’re dealing with that makes our bodies feel stuck, unsettled and depressed.

This therapeutic connection between the mind and body isn’t a theory; it’s a fact of life. Your body is self-healing and wondrous, and when you move it, you automatically get the health benefits that come from the blood and lymph flowing, the molecules of emotion circulating, the tissues nourished, the joints juiced.

If you are out there dating, in addition to always practicing safe sex, protect that heart of yours. Here is a review, some lessons learned and a few tips from other dating gurus:

Being a little retro doesn’t hurt. I have to admit that I struggled with this recommendation. I fully embrace 21st century female independence, (Do I even need to say that?) so when multiple dating experts suggested letting the guy set the first date, the feminist in me recoiled. No, forget the feminist: I recoiled. After reading enough, I realized it’s not about surrendering your power, but about knowing how men’s minds work (not to generalize or anything). “It’s not that men want a woman as a doormat, they just want to play their role as men, as protectors and providers,” says Lisa Copeland, dating coach. That’s not to say you have to be totally silent online; go ahead and reach out to people who interest you. “If you just put your profile online and wait around for someone to message you, you’re not being proactive in your dating life,” says Laurie Davis, founder of eFlirt. But after getting in touch, let him ask for your number, or make plans to meet up for drinks.

Iris Apfel’s new book Accidental Icon: Musings of a Geriatric Starlet is not really an accident. The 96-year-young larger than life personality has a lot to say in her latest reflections, complete with photographs and illustrations of life as an interior designer, textile expert and fashion influencer. The visionary has had a documentary made about her, has been the face of MAC cosmetics and has been the subject of several museum exhibitions of her clothing and accessories. With her signature oversized glasses, chunky jewelry, colorful clothes and furs, she is the epitome of “cool” ...and she has lots to say about her amazing experiences.

What would you say to an opportunity to make life safer? All it requires is a little bit of common sense and planning. Our region has just come through two of the toughest hurricane seasons in many years. For many, these storm seasons caused us to evacuate further inward away from the storm.

When the Emergency Management Agency (EMA) calls for a voluntary evacuation, most of your evacuation planning should have already been completed. If you wait until EMA directs a mandatory evacuation, your plans may present many disappointments and delays. This causes you to run headlong into thousands of others, who are also trying to get away from the storm at the last minute, often struggling to find an available hotel room and working through extreme heavy volumes of traffic.

Thanks to many Pink readers, questions have been pouring in and most are regarding the first meet up. The meet up should not be just a date, but about making a connection and getting the second date.

Once you have communicated within the dating site, feel confident your connection is not a scam, try to get a last name. Then you can google him/her before your meet up. Don’t give your full name too soon. Be vague about your profession, place of employment, birthplace, etc. Do not give your home address too soon either. Do not go to his house too soon. Use the buddy system. Tell a friend when and where you will be meeting, and text them when you arrive home safe and door locked. Now lets go out there and have fun.

It’s summer somewhere... and if you’re lucky enough to escape for a tropical getaway anytime soon, chances are you’ve been shopping for a swimsuit. And whether you’re suiting up for a vacation in paradise, an afternoon beach walk, or just want to find a new suit before the neighborhood pool opens, it’s a good time to test the waters and dive into a new season of fun in the sun. Here are some tips and trends to get you started:

Take a chance on new styles. If you’ve always worn that boring black one-piece, throw caution to the wind, and experiment with something new. You may not be ready for a string bikini, but a new Baywatch-inspired red-hot maillot may be just the thing to put a little sizzle back into your swimwear wardrobe. One-pieces with plunging necklines and high-cut legs are having a moment this year.

Let’s pretend we’re sitting down, face to face, and after some easy chit chat, I put on my reporter’s hat and ask you this one dizzying question: What is the single most crucial factor when it comes to living a happy, healthy life?

Take a breath. Reflect. Have a glass of something.

The número uno most important factor.

Exercising daily? Very good guess. Eating well? Nice try.

But it’s not the answer that can change your life in unexpected and remarkable ways.

Meet Phoebe Jayne Your Heart Coach and Online Dating Consultant:
I’m hoping by now, you have selected at least one online dating site, uploaded your recent photos, written your profile and selected a username you are comfortable with. I suggest a variant of your name, not your real name. Strap in…the fun is about to begin!

Think about online dating as a project. As you have fun looking at the different profiles, you must develop an investigative approach for safety. Think about this as a fantasy. Nothing is real; don’t take anything too personally. You need to be smart to keep yourself safe.

As spring fast approaches, the task of cleaning out our closets seems more overwhelming than ever. After all, we’ve still got a few chilly days ahead, right? Well, don’t let your good intentions grow cold. Here’s something to get you inspired: it’s the short list of the clothes and accessories to hold onto, to get rid of and even a few ideas of what to add to your spring shopping list.

Prove it with prints. Keep cold-shouldered tops. The off-the-shoulder looks are here to stay. The cutout sweaters made the transition to winter and the peasant blouse silhouettes will be worn by trendsetters come spring and summer. Get rid of oversized drapey knits and crinkled cottons that make you look like you grabbed them off the bottom of the laundry basket.

I belonged to a secret society. My membership was not by choice, but by chance. It included an involuntary vow of silence—not just my silence, but also that of my family, friends, co-workers and all those around me.

This was over 45 years ago and the secret society is called domestic violence. Even today, it still exists, and there are thousands, if not millions, of unwilling members. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in four women and one in seven men will be victims of severe violence by an intimate partner in their lifetimes.

Dear Readers, When was the last time you and your partner talked about money? To me it’s not only a good idea, it’s essential for maintaining a healthy relationship. And it’s also essential that each partner have a certain amount of financial independence. That becomes increasingly clear when you look at recent stats about financial abuse and infidelity in relationships. 

Think it can’t happen to you? A June 2017 survey by CentSai, an online financial wellness community, found that 60 percent of Millennials surveyed said they were victims of financial abuse or financial infidelity. These statistics are alarming—but not inevitable. Here are some preventative steps:

What? You’ve already failed to keep your New Year’s resolutions?

Of course you have. Welcome to human nature. And don’t feel badly. Zillions of your fellow Americans are also failing to give up nachos, sleep seven hours a night, bicycle to work, defend their souls against time-sucking small-screen devices. Great intentions, depressing results.

Why is the new-habit failure rate so high? Because changing behavior—as in developing new habits—is a skill.

Like shoeing a horse. It’s something you need to learn how to do, so when you decide to do it, your chance of success will skyrocket.

Meet Phoebe Jayne, Online Dating Guru:
I was an executive recruiter for almost 20 years, assisting clients in finding the perfect employee and candidates in finding the perfect job. Literally, I was a professional matchmaker, just on a corporate level. With all that experience of good fit and right match, I, Phoebe Jayne, have taken my tried and true career principles and put them to the test of online dating. Voila! Applying my recruiting techniques has proven to be an incredible (and successful) model to follow.

I have been an online dating consultant for two years. Of course I started by using myself as a test candidate; I had to see if my theory was on track. I kept accurate notes, timelines, research and charts. And, even with all that stuff that sounds a lot like work, I had fun in the process!

I can recall vividly—and count on one hand—the migraine headaches I’ve had in my life, all of which were before age 10. Once I turned double digits, I outgrew them ... until a couple of months ago.

With no warning at all, there I was back to my 8-year-old self, flat on my back with a raging migraine. Why now, after all these years?

In reading up on the latest findings, I discovered how important magnesium is to our overall health. Turns out that 80 percent of the U.S. population suffers from magnesium deficiency causing all kinds of health issues, one of them being migraine headaches. And here’s the problem with that: Magnesium supplements are not necessarily the answer because it is not easily absorbed through the digestive tract.

Goodbye, millennial pink. Hello to a new passion for purple. It’s a new season and time to celebrate new fashion trends. Get ready to let a few feathers fly, belt on some fanny packs and see a rainbow or two.

Here’s a rundown on the newest trends for 2018:

> Prove it with prints. Just like denim, spring’s traditional florals get the darker treatment with an edgier vibe worthy of wallpaper botanicals. Plaids lighten up in checks and tartans. And whimsical graphic prints take fashion to a whole new level of fun. And after all, isn’t that the best way to dress in for a whole new year?