North Bay Woman

10 NORTH BAY WOMAN F A L L 2 0 2 0 IN THIS ISSUE What's Going On? T his is the third time in the past year where I've found myself in challenging times as I sit down to ponder what's going on in this issue. These 12 months have been plagued with a breast cancer diagnosis, fi res, blackouts, double mastectomy and reconstruction, COVID-19, shelter in place, race riots, equity protests, infection and implant removal, daughter's distance learning, more shelter in place, passing of my stepfather, more fi res, another reconstruc- tive surgery, no end to Coronavirus, and political angst. Now to top it off, my hairstylist has moved out of state! Even with all of that, I truly believe there is always good, however, you may have to dig deep these days for the silver linings. Getting the Marin IJ out every day even with blackouts and SIP, continuing to publish NBW digitally and increasing our audience, social distancing, Black Lives Matter, becoming cancer free, virtual meetings to stay in touch with colleagues, family and friends, family getaways, having my Mom for an extended visit, giving up(-ish) wine, losing 25 pounds, puzzles, baking, nature walks, and fi guring out the new normals as we forge ahead are all bright spots. I know that so many of you can relate to both the yin and yang of all that's going on. This issue vibrates with change, realness, and is very person- al to all who contributed, including myself. From encouraging decor, local lotions, to hair tips and baking bests; there's something for everyone. I was thrilled when Pam Cook, previous NBW cover and KTVU news anchor, reached out to be part of our team, and absolutely love her fashioni- sta story about Shunzi. I do suggest a tissue and a quiet place as you read about Krista Garownski's personal journey with hospice. October is breast cancer awareness month, so I had to make sure that my surgeon, Dr. Patience Odele, was included in 10 Questions. Oshalla Diana Marcus graces our cover and shares her inti- mate story of growing up in Marin City, coming into her own through the strength and love of family, her confi dent journey, spiritual work, and how a name change can be transformative. A story, very relatable yet so distant for many of us. It's in this spirit of sharing stories that I believe we can collaborate, have diffi cult conversations, listen, learn, laugh, heal, become role models for our daughters and be better women. I hope the stories in this issue will spark continued conversations that are internal, within our tribes, and most importantly with those who may not be a mirror image of ourselves. n Namaste, who may not be a mirror image of ourselves. Clockwise from left: Reminders inside and outside are uplifting. I always save notes where I can easily see them; Lori Pearce and Mom, Jan Berndt; While I wish her well in her new adventure, Lauren Huntley, my hair stylist and NBW contributor, will be missed; Friends dish the latest news while virtually sharing a beverage; Thanks to the support of family this past year has been manageable and wonderful memories have been made. Family vacation Lori Pearce, George Wagner, Macy Buhl, Gage Wagner, Grace Wagner; walking in Palm Springs Lori Pearce, Grace Wagner; Center photo, Jonna Intoschi, Lori Pearce, Leanne Gallup, and Carrie Pierson gathered for the To Celebrate Life Breast Cancer virtual fundraiser.

• Cover