31 Jul valerie l. anthony.

ft. walton beach, florida via el paso, texas | owner and director of operations for magnolia manor adult day care

It turns out, the emerald coast of Northwest Florida has more to offer than beautiful beaches —it has an incredible community of people making their corner of the world bright and happy. I first met Valerie Anthony thirteen years ago when she became the caretaker of an elderly neighbor of mine whose family had abandon him due to his excessive drinking. I fell in love with her loving and patient spirit—for she could do things for a perfect stranger most often can’t do for family members. Simply put, Valerie Anthony loves what she does and it shines through her dancing eyes.

 As parents age—for those lucky enough to have parents well into adulthood—we must come to terms with the reality of dealing with healthcare and often times role reversals. Many families are choosing to move their aging parents into their own households in lieu of full-time nursing facilities in order to spend as much quality time with them as possible. Those loving families need help along the way and this is where the ladies of Magnolia Manor step in. Today, co-owner Valerie Anthony shares her thoughts on overcoming obstacles and choosing happiness.

How did you choose the life you lead and was it a conscious decision?

I am an owner of a state-licensed adult day care facility and have always loved caring for seniors in one capacity or another. I am very blessed to now live what I love every day.

What is your greatest accomplishment to date?

Opening Magnolia Manor, the first state-licensed adult day care in our county. We offer unparalleled care.

What has been your greatest obstacle in life and how do/did you navigate it?

Impatience. I now practice little tasks that force me to be a more patient human being.

What dreams and/or goals have inspired your success?

I never gave up on my dream of someday being a successful entrepreneur. I just never gave up.

How do you overcome fear?

By facing it head on. Just face whatever it is that brings you fear.

Was there a fork in the road that distinctly determined your lifestyle?

When I was 18 I was in an abusive relationship. After divorcing, I met a wonderful man who changed my life. We just celebrated 30 years together.

What does failure / or success look like to you?

I have always examined my failures far more closely than my successes. Failure to me is when you stop trying. Success is when preparation meets opportunity!

Is there such a thing as work-life balance?

Yes. She who trims herself to suit everybody will soon whittle herself away.

What was the best advice you have ever received?

Always honor your word. You are only as good as your word.

What is your best advice on how to live life gracefully?

CHOOSE TO BE HAPPY. LIVE IN THE MOMENT. AND REMEMBER THE SERENITY PRAYER.

 j. jane side notes:

Learn more about Magnolia Manor and the loving work of two outstanding women. Valerie Anthony and Sara Dykes O’Neal offer kindness and compassion while filling the room with laughter and joy. These ladies found their purpose in life and subsequently offer unparalleled care to those you love the most.

PHOTOS: The Ladies of Magnolia Manor celebrating their sixth anniversary {left} and again with their board members, including one of the world’s greatest community leaders, Charlie Clary. {right}