Ripple is more than just a vape — it’s a nicotine-free, plant-based aromatic inhaler designed to help people quit smoking and embrace a healthier lifestyle. Having used Ripple for nearly a year, I’ve been impressed with its soothing natural ingredients, which leave none of the usual aftereffects of nicotine vapes, like a sore throat or bad taste. Instead, Ripple offers a smooth, enjoyable experience that aligns with wellness goals, especially for someone who used to smoke nicotine myself.

Now, as a Sober Curator (and a sober Sandler sympathizer), I gotta say: the movie doesn’t totally trivialize alcoholism. Happy hits rock bottom, and joins an HAL (Healing Alkies for Life) AA group inspired run by Ben Stiller (returning in psychotic orderly mode). The disguise flasks throughout the film? Outstanding. Almost as good as the 75+ cameos. There’s a fake iPhone, a golf club, a golf ball, even a cucumber. It’s like the James Bond of bad coping skills.

“The Bear” drew me in for a few different reasons. Like many people in recovery, I spent many drinking days working in the restaurant industry. Quick cash and mostly free booze. It just made sense for people like me. Until it didn’t, but this is another story for never. My years spent working in bars and restaurants made “The Bear’s” storyline especially intriguing. “The Bear” is similar to the movie “Burnt” with Bradley Cooper. Gritty, Authentic, and loosely based on Anthony Bourdain’s “Kitchen Confidential.” Anything associated with Anthony Bourdain is already a hit with me and worth trying. I’m glad I gave “The Bear” a chance. (Sober Curator Pro Tip: This article links to all four seasons reviews.)

For those of us living alcohol-free — whether for personal, health or recovery reasons — reading ingredient labels is second nature. But one product that often flies under the radar? Perfume. Traditional fragrances almost always contain alcohol, usually in the form of ethanol, as the primary ingredient. It’s the industry standard because alcohol helps the scent evaporate quickly and project into the air.

But if you’re someone practicing total abstinence from alcohol, you may prefer products that align with your lifestyle on all levels — including your fragrance. The good news? More and more luxury brands are finally getting the memo and creating alcohol-free perfumes that smell just as divine — without compromise.

If you’re in recovery and planning a trip to the Sunshine State, don’t worry — you can still have fun without succumbing to temptation! Tampa and St. Petersburg are two of the most exciting cities in Florida, offering a plethora of activities that do not involve alcohol or drugs. Let’s explore some of them! And not to bury the lead, I’m going to tell you I spent more time in St Pete’s than I did in Tampa, and I’m not mad about it.