Happy holiday season! As I write this, I’m excitingly anticipating all kinds of festive goodness especially gatherings with friends, community events, and holiday decorating and baking.

Speaking of baking, I’m glad I read the health brief on page 14 before Thanksgiving as a friendly reminder not to load up on ultra-processed foods. As someone who’s vocation revolves around healthy living, at this time of year I can easily succumb to the temptations of calorie, fat and sugar-laden desserts, cocktails, casseroles, and the like. And while I’ll indulge a little, I know I don’t have to over-indulge to appreciate whatever delicious dish or baked goody comes across my path.  Merry Brunching, on page 34, offers healthy swaps for classic mid-morning meals followed by a few yummy holiday recipes. And we didn’t forget about our furry family members with some simple ideas for holiday pet treats on page 42.

During the holidays, I often feel frozen in empathy for all the suffering in the world. Many of us want to make a difference but we don’t always know what to do or where to begin. Oftentimes, this means we end up doing nothing. But it doesn’t have to be that way.

This month’s eco tip Holiday Volunteering: The Gift of Giving on page 19, inspired me to action. The holidays are the perfect time for us to show our generosity. They’re here to remind us that we’re all connected. And what better way to demonstrate this than to help our fellow earth inhabitants. The Best Gift of All, on page 38 explains how researchers discovered the many ways children benefit physically, mentally and emotionally from kindness. And for an inspiring read, check out Linda Sechrist’s article titled Transforming Our World: Working Together for Meaningful Change on page 26. It’s truly uplifting. 

Speaking of uplifting, check out this month’s business spotlight featuring Ed Berry, founder of Earthquake Eddie Bee Superfoods on page 20. This passionate entrepreneur is a shining example of someone dedicated to making the world healthier. 

In addition, there are so many amazing events happening this month—including the Sleigh the Litter Second Annual Beach Cleanup taking place December 3 on Pensacola Beach, WinterFest being held on December 17 at Stone Soup in Fort Walton Beach, and the Blessed Yule/Christmas to You Holiday Sale at Mystical Paths of Pea Ridge in Milton December 17 and 18. 

We hope you’re able to spark that holiday spirit by embracing the wonder and magic of the season. There’s a lot of chaos going on in the world, but we can shine some light into that darkness, starting right here in our own community. Like the Grinch Who Stole Christmas, let’s allow our hearts to grow three sizes—or more—and fill the world with as much love, joy and laughter as we can this holiday season.

The world needs you—your act of enthusiastic kindness.

Cheers and see you in the new year!