When my kids were younger, the approaching holidays meant making plans to create holiday magic for little ones. We would shop for new holiday displays, put up lights, bake special dishes, and decorate the tree while festive music filled the air. As the boys grew, these “magical” events became more like chores to accomplish so we pared down the decor as their interests shifted to other endeavors. Now that they have left the nest, I am feeling another shift in priorities for the holiday season. For example, my oldest son Kyle now lives in Boston, a trip to Publix for a pub-sub is on the holiday list! When my son Ryan comes home for a break from his busy college work schedule, his treats consist of rest and healthy food he doesn't have to make himself.

Both my kids have learned to cook for themselves. Kyle prefers the ease of a crock pot. Ryan has a knack for being creative and pulling ingredients already in the kitchen into a new dish. He first discovered the benefits of a sheet pan supper when living in a dorm as a freshman with limited kitchen tools. It is simple, quick and easy to create a healthy meal with a few ingredients, a knife and a sheet pan. “Sheet pans combine easy prep, process and cleanup, and deliver interesting, sophisticated flavor,” says chef Molly Gilbert in our Conscious Eating article. If you would like to give it a try, you can find a few recipes to get you started on page 30. I’m looking forward to trying the Roasted Vegetable, Feta and Smoked Almond Salad.

In this issue, we explore the evolution of humanity’s collective consciousness and promising signs of progress shifting from me to we consciousness. Find tips from a rock star doctor on how to party healthy. Discover the best exercises for a pound-shedding workout [page 36]. These pages are loaded with local events, workshops, and new products and services to enhance your healthy lifestyle. I hope you resonate with several new options that help create holiday magic for your family.

Here’s to a magical and healthy holiday season!

Kris Urquhart, Publisher