December is such a significant and special month of the year—a time filled with cherished traditions, meaningful gatherings and the opportunity to slow down (even if only for a moment) to savor life’s simple pleasures. Yet, it’s also a time that can easily become a whirlwind of to-do lists and obligations if we’re not careful. This month’s theme “Reconnect & Rejuvenate” is an opportune reminder to all of us that prioritizing the important things in our lives is paramount. 

My son has been away at college since early August, so December feels even more special this year. I can’t wait for the chance to share time with him, my husband and our 16-year-old daughter together under the same roof. Amidst the hustle and bustle, a revolving door of friends and relatives visiting, hours just watching movies and traveling together as a family, I’m really going to make a conscious effort to live in the moment and appreciate everything. 

As a parent, I always dreaded coming into these years because of the fear of what feels like such a loss. True to the saying, “The days are long, but the years are short,” I’m reminded again that the time with my children is so fleeting. I find myself marveling at how much they’ve grown and how little time we truly have left before they carve out lives of their own. Even as they lean on me for guidance and support, today’s experiences hold both bittersweet thoughts of the past and the unknown of a new future. This year, especially, I’ve decided I want to make every moment count. 

In this spirit of togetherness, this issue highlights how homemade gifts can be both budget-friendly and sustainable. Crafting heartfelt creations or baking healthy cookies from the recipes we’ve included in this issue can become more than just a task—you can create cherished memories, too. These moments are a gift in and of themselves, filled with laughter and connection that will last far beyond the season.

No matter what your situation is this holiday season, my wish for you is to embrace quality time—whatever that looks like for you. This time of year can be challenging, both mentally and physically, for many, but it also highlights opportunities to give back to the community in meaningful ways. Simple acts of kindness not only lift others, but also create moments of personal peace and affinity. I encourage you to find avenues to pay it forward while spending quality time with those who bring you happiness. Whether it’s donating a meal or gifts to a local charity or wrapping presents for a friend going through a difficult time, reconnection and rejuvenation are a welcomed result, for both giver and receiver. 

As we move towards a new year, I hope you will carve out some time for yourself to consider the past, present and future. There is so much to be grateful for and to anticipate. In the meantime, I urge you to honor your need to recharge, hold close the people who mean the most, relish the little things and join me in making every moment count!

Wishing you a season filled with joy, love and cherished moments,