In this edition of Q&A, we caught up with local entrepreneur Janae Grice, owner of SoWalSitter Childcare Services on 30A.
My “me-time therapy” is usually spent with a good book and cup of coffee on my couch with my dog. I stay so busy with my childcare business that when I have downtime, I enjoy the peace and quiet of being home. I also like walking the trails in Watercolor. The flowers and foliage are so pretty back there and it’s normally not too crowded.
I do a mix of morning workouts at 30A Gym & Fitness, Hot Yoga classes at Destin Hot Yoga, and Standup Paddleboard Yoga with Shanda or Kaylee at 30A Paddleboard Yoga on the weekends. I’m usually at the gym very early in the mornings — 4:30 – 5 a.m. and it’s a great way to start my day. Mixing it up keeps it exciting and gives me options for rainy days.
Since moving back to the area after grad school, I started SoWalSitter Childcare Services on 30A, where I provide childcare for tourists and locals alike so parents can enjoy an adult night out while at the beach. I’m grateful to have already watched around 200 children this year. It allows me to have a flexible schedule and meet people from all over the world who vacation here. I’ve met some wonderful clients, who I continue to help each year.
Outside of keeping children, I help advertise for local bands in the area as I myself enjoy listening to live music. Many of the musicians are my friends and I always look forward to supporting and hearing them while hanging out with fun locals. I also post events on SoWal Social Scene.
Music at Red Fish Taco and North Beach Social. People would be surprised at the talented musicians who play and sing at both places, plus the food and views are great.
Also, the Choctawhatchee Bay in general seems to be forgotten about or underappreciated. It’s so pretty and serene. I love getting out there on a SUP, boat, or just sitting on a dock and watching the dolphins swim by in the evenings. Grayton and Topsail State Park are treasures to me, as is Eden Gardens State Park. Many people forget how easily accessible they are and the beaches there aren’t nearly as crowded as other spots. It’s like you’re in a peaceful corner of heaven on earth.
Beach Happy ????️ ???? visits Choctawhatchee Bay!
WOW!! ???? Did you guys know all this stuff??
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Posted by 30A on Thursday, 29 April 2021
Having what I call “Nature Therapy” right outside my door. It’s relaxing and therapeutic.
Also, being surrounded by, and lucky to know, so many talented musicians who play in our area. I love that we are still a small community of people who mostly know each other. No matter if I’m out shopping, having lunch, or running the path, I run into people I know and enjoy seeing.
We are a tight-knit community of friends, entrepreneurs, and musicians who will help each other out in a heartbeat.
Walking the beach, paddling the Bay, and riding the trails through the state forests is peaceful and helps clear my mind. I love being surrounded by forests and water. Plus we have the coastal dunes, which are rare.
Hands down, Stinky’s Bait Shack for the vibe, people, and music. It’s a lot more than a bait and tackle store. There is a full bar, live music, souvenirs, beach gear, and more in there. It’s a great place to go grab a cold drink after a hot day at the beach. I like to hang at what locals call “Stinky’s Beach,” and then walk across 30A to hang out at the bar in the Bait Shack. It’s like “Cheers!” where you walk in and everyone knows your name.
Red Fish Taco in Blue Mountain Beach and The Red Bar are also favorites of mine. Those are my spots. I can be found at those in my downtime hanging with other crazy locals and just having a few laughs. I love the music at Red Fish on Thursday and Friday nights — some of the best along 30A.
Good staff, cool vibes, and great music. It’s a good feeling walking into a place and seeing so many friends. I always feel the love at both of those.
