By Gwinn Volen

I suspect each of us has had a recent medical story where either a) it took months to get an appointment b) you felt like a number, not a human or c) you felt like the CYA culture in our medical universe precludes you from getting real answers. 

I found a lump in my breast a couple of weeks ago. It was alarming, though I tried to keep my cool. I scheduled an appointment with my general practitioner, and he confirmed that he felt what I was feeling and gave me imaging orders for an ultrasound and diagnostic mammogram. 

I left the office thinking I'd take those over to my regular imaging center that afternoon to have the scans done hoping to alleviate my anxiety. I called the imaging center, and after waiting on hold, listening to…

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By Cindy Moody

There is something supremely gratifying about planting a seed and watching it grow. It is even more spectacular when it bears fruit that can be consumed and enjoyed. Having a green thumb that allows for such miraculous things seems to be a skill that is bestowed on a select group of individuals - not everyone achieves the same level of success as they set out to garden and grow. There is, however, another type of seed-planting that is not so selective. In fact, every single person has the capacity and gift to plant these seeds and experience fruitful growth. These are the seeds of intentional living and the fruit of legacy.

As we wake up each morning we can acknowledge that we have a heart that is beating and air in our lungs. Each…

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by Cindy Moody

I had the pleasure of meeting Jill Thompson, the founder of Inheritance of Hope, through her son, Cael, one of our Griffin Moody Scholarship Fund recipients this year.  It never ceases to amaze me the incredible kids we meet through our application and interview process, all established to honor our Grif's legacy. This year, we also met Jill and how she honored her best friend, who passed and left behind a sweet family, by establishing this organization to support families that are facing the loss of a parent. Jill and I met for coffee shortly after we met and I asked her to share what she does.  There are heroes in our community, she is one of them, and I think our blog is a wonderful way to share.  Even if it helps only one family, it…

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by Alexis Leis, Certified Personal Trainer

Summertime is here and it can be a challenge to have all the fun while staying on track for your goals. Whether you have a summer filled with travel, doubling down in work, or spending time relaxing going with the flow, you’ll be able to use these 4 simple tips to stay on track with your health goals this summer. Simple doesn’t always mean easy, but when you bring your intention and attention to it you’ll be on the path to success. 

Get Clear On Your Goals

Before you make a plan to stay on track and motivated for the summer, you first need to get clear on your goals. The biggest question to ask yourself that will help you navigate the path to success is to think about what it looks…

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Hello indulgence seekers! In this article, we’re spilling the beans on 5 Great Day Spa options in the Jacksonville and Beaches area, catering to every budget and pampering preference. Whether you’re looking to splurge on a luxurious retreat or seeking relaxation on a wallet-friendly scale, we’ve got you covered. From opulent havens of tranquility to charming hidden gems, get ready to embark on a blissful journey through the best day spas this area has to offer. So, let your worries melt away and prepare for a rejuvenating adventure as we delve into the most coveted pampering spots around!

The Spa at Ponte Vedra Inn & Club

Welcome to Ponte Vedra Beach where the Spa at Ponte Vedra Inn & Club stands as a paragon of…

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by Jenn Heller

A lighthouse tower is meant to serve as a location beacon for those navigating the waterways. Given that we live among a multitude of waterways in Northeast Florida, we are gifted with many lighthouses to serve our maritime pilots as well as provide historic background to tourists and locals alike.

As a former New Yorker from Long Island I had visited Montauk Point with my family more times than I can count on both hands and was always fascinated by the Montauk Point lighthouse. In fact, the day after prom in 1986 (yes, I'm dating myself) I chose to drive out to Montauk from my Brentwood, Long Island home to visit the one place that brought me such peace and perspective in life. No, I wasn't much of the "party animal" on prom weekend…

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