Let’s gladly say good-bye to 2024, and Celebrate New Beginnings! 

Reflecting on the past five years, I flipped through some of our past January editions. An old 2020 article popped out entitled: Tidying Up Your Bucket List. As I re-read it, I chuckled at how outdated my list has become.

For instance, globe-trotting adventures that once dominated my list—dreams of Iceland’s northern lights, Norway’s fjords, or braving the Drake Passage to see penguins in Antarctica—have now been replaced by simpler joys. I’d rather stay close to home and acquire new artistic skills. Growing an edible garden has also become a top priority!  

Another long-time goal I held onto was publishing 300 issues—25 years of Natural Awakenings. With this January edition marking number 295, I’m content letting that milestone go, knowing it leads to something even more exciting. I am thrilled to announce that Scott and Daralyn Chase will take over as Publishers starting this February!

The Chases bring incredible experience and dedication, having successfully led the Northwest Florida edition (Destin/Panama area) for over 14 years. They also have deep roots in Central Florida—Daralyn graduated from Winter Park High School just a year behind me (1980–1981), and Scott’s naval family spent time in Sanford.

Let’s warmly welcome Scott and Daralyn as they carry forward the mission of Natural Awakenings with passion and integrity.

And speaking of fresh starts, our feature article First Thoughts and New Experiences (pp 16-19) focuses on returning to innocence by practicing Shoshin (a Japanese term meaning a “Beginner’s Mindset”). Resonating at the perfect time, I am enthusiastically ready to become a beginner again! What should I learn first? I have a dulcimer which is begging for attention—along with a puppy ready to learn new tricks on an agility course!

Finally, you will find many inspiring tips to promote a healthier lifestyle. I’m using the 25 Wellness Tips (pp 14-15) as my renewal checklist. And, be sure to serve up happiness with our recipes for foods for good moods (pp24-26).