It’s August in the River Region—hot enough to fry an egg on the sidewalk and just humid enough to steam it. But while summer’s heat lingers, something shifts this month. You can feel it in the morning air, just a hint of what’s coming. Fall is whispering. Routines are resetting. And whether or not we’ve got kids in school ourselves, we all feel the pull of a fresh season approaching.
For many of us in the 50+ crowd, August means the grandkids are heading back to school. The house gets quieter. The fridge stays fuller. And we exhale—grateful for the memories we made this summer, and maybe a little relieved to get back to normal.
This month’s issue honors that unique space we’re in—the bridge between the energy of summer and the reflection of fall. Our cover profile, Debbie Lynn, embodies that beautifully. Her story is rooted in the independence of a childhood spent on a Pike Road farm, but it blooms with purpose: in her leadership at Easterseals, her commitment to health and wellness, and her deep love for her daughter. Debbie reminds us that aging with purpose doesn’t mean slowing down. It means showing up—with intention, curiosity, and heart.
You’ll also find an encouraging piece on how grandparents can play a meaningful role during back-to-school season—not just as babysitters or backup drivers, but as emotional anchors for the whole family. Sometimes a quick “You’ve got this” text from Grandma does more than we realize.
Greg Budell brings the laughs and the science with “Older is Better,” reminding us that mental strength, emotional resilience, and yes—even our sex lives—can actually improve with age. As Greg says, it might take all night to do what we used to do all night, but who’s in a hurry these days?
We’ve also got a serious but essential look at the rise in scams targeting older adults. It’s sobering—but knowledge is power, and staying informed helps us protect ourselves and those we love.
If you’re itching for a little adventure before summer fades, Jeff Barganier takes us to Mayhurst Estate in Virginia, where faith, history, and hospitality intersect in a way that might just inspire your next road trip. Or, if you prefer something closer to home, Nick Thomas invites us to explore the AUM Forest Trail, right here in Montgomery—a hidden gem for reflection, walking, and rediscovery.
In this season of transition, maybe that’s the word we all need: rediscovery. Of who we are now. Of what still brings us joy. Of how to love better, move more, and stay curious in the years ahead.