May has always been a special time in Southwest Florida. While much of the country is just beginning to welcome spring, we’re already immersed in its full expression. The landscape comes alive with vibrant flowering trees and blooming shrubs—brilliant reds, purples, yellows and oranges. From the striking royal poinciana in my neighbor’s yard to the soft lavender jacaranda down my street, this season is a daily reminder of how lucky we are to live surrounded by such natural beauty.

It feels especially fitting that Mother’s Day arrives during this fragrant, flourishing time of year. Motherhood has taken on even deeper meaning for me since becoming a grandmother 18 months ago. My granddaughter, Zylah, has truly expanded my heart in ways I never imagined—right alongside my daughter and co-publisher, Alina. I often think of my own mother, smiling down on the three of us and the loving bond she helped create.

Our annual Women’s Wellness edition celebrates women’s health with inspiring personal stories, insights from national and local experts and practical everyday guidance. In these pages, you’ll find ideas for cultivating resilience and vitality (page 24), simple ways to improve hip mobility and strength (page 36), and a deeper understanding of pelvic-floor health (page 38), along with other accessible strategies to support long-term well-being.

I’m continually inspired by our longtime editor, Linda Sechrist, whose dedication to meaningful causes and community initiatives remains unwavering. She is just one of many in our region working to create a more compassionate, connected world. We hope you’ll join us for several upcoming events, including the Caring for Creation gathering on May 9 (page 14), Florida Gulf Coast University’s K2 Kindness Summit May 14–17 (page 19) and the ongoing Compassionate Southwest Florida Project (page 28). Our vision is to see this movement grow, bringing Fort Myers, Estero, Bonita Springs and Naples together to sign the Charter for Compassion.

Beyond the beautiful blossoms, May brings something we all quietly welcome—a gentler pace. Seasonal traffic eases, a sense of calm returns and there’s more space to savor all that our community offers. For those of us that call this place home, it’s a wonderful month to appreciate.

Happy Mother’s Day to all the nurturing, radiant women—and men—that help our community thrive. We truly appreciate you.

Many blessings,

Sharon Bruckman, Publisher