When I lived in the Midwest, it was often dark and dreary – for more than half the year, it seemed to me. And in the winter, when the cold would take your breath away and literally freeze your nose hairs, people didn’t leave the house unless they really had to … to go to work, to get groceries, to go to school, the basics. We didn’t linger and chill out with neighbors outside just for pleasure.

I noticed pretty quickly that the same, but opposite, thing is true here in Florida. In the blazing heat of July and August, people don’t seem to linger outside very much. We tend to stick to the air conditioning as much as possible and only go out during the day if absolutely necessary. Not everyone, but a lot of us. There are some of you (ahem, Nona Cycle) who would brave any weather no matter what part of the country you live in or what season it is! Kudos to you! I’m not that brave, and I don’t enjoy torturing myself.

That said, I have been quite happy to trade two blistering hot months for six-plus of rain, cold, ice and darkness. After all, we still have the early mornings and late evenings to enjoy during those two months. And we still have the sun shining (although it’s a special version of the sun here that feels like it’s two inches from my face) and the most incredible sunsets and thunderstorms I’ve ever experienced. I don’t mind hibernating in the air conditioning during the day for a couple of months. I truly love it here!

Nonahood News is here to get you through these crazy hot months with content to keep you prepared for hurricane season, to celebrate victories and firsts, to learn more about our heroes and innovators, to laugh and to cry, to educate and inspire, and to foster growth and development in your family, personally, and at work.

We’ve got graduations, a new Rotary Club, lots of leadership articles, our monthly Nona Heroes spotlight (do you have someone to nominate?), lots of articles on wellbeing and mindfulness, an exchange student program at LNHS (still need two hosts!), growth reports for Lake Nona, articles to make you think and ponder, our very own viral Karate Kid, and wildlife celebrations. 

We’ve got medical, health, fitness, and sports info to share with all of you. We’ve got an abundance of scholarship and awards winners! We’ve got food, dogs, neighbors, art, media reviews (movie, TV, book, and music!), events, and, most importantly, family.

Whatever you’re doing this summer, do it with a smile. Even if it’s a sweaty smile. 

Stay cool, Lake Nona!