Happy New Year, Shearwater!
As we step into a season of fresh starts, we’re grateful to begin this new chapter alongside the Shearwater community. From our very first conversations with residents, business owners, and neighbors here, we felt something special - kind people, genuine pride of place, and a strong sense of connection that makes Shearwater truly unique.

Shearwater has very much become part of our everyday lives. Through stories, events, partnerships, and countless conversations, we’ve had the privilege of getting to know the people who make this community feel like home - and we’re honored to help tell those stories each month.

We both come from classic Midwestern roots. Tom grew up in Wisconsin (yes, he’s a devoted Green Bay Packers fan), attended the University of Wisconsin–Madison (Go Badgers!), and Mary grew up in Chicago, attended the University of Illinois, and feels most at peace near the water - lakes, oceans, rivers… if it’s blue, she’s there.

Our journey as a couple is one we hold close to our hearts. Having both lost our spouses to cancer, we’ve walked through difficult seasons but through faith, healing, and God’s gentle timing, our families were brought together. This second chapter - filled with love, resilience, and a beautifully blended family - is one we are incredibly grateful for.

Together, we have five amazing kids:

And of course, our household wouldn’t be complete without Daisy, our golden retriever, and Charlie, our yellow lab—both fully convinced they’re in charge.

Before moving to Florida, Mary partnered with Greet Magazine (Stroll’s sister publication) through her real estate career in Chicago. What stood out immediately was that the publication didn’t just tell stories - it connected people. Neighbors met neighbors. Businesses became trusted names. Families felt seen, celebrated, and part of something bigger.

When we made the decision to bring Stroll to this area, Shearwater stood out as a community that values connection, pride, and people. Being part of Shearwater has been a meaningful way for us to build relationships, support local businesses, and celebrate the stories that make this neighborhood so special.

Our goal is simple and heartfelt: we want Stroll Shearwater to feel like a celebration of this community.

Through:

Our mission is to help Shearwater feel even more connected - one story, one introduction, and one shared experience at a time.

Thank you for welcoming us so warmly into the Shearwater community. We don’t take lightly the trust you place in us to share your stories and represent this neighborhood. We look forward to meeting more of you -at Stroll events, around town, and through the pages of this magazine. From our family to yours, we’re grateful to be on this journey with you.

Warmly,
Tom & Mary