Publisher’s Letter

As I sat down to collect my thoughts and write these end-of-year notes, I faintly heard the unmistakable bugle of sandhill cranes flying far overhead. It seems perhaps a bit early for their migration from Wisconsin wetlands to their stopover at Indiana’s Jasper-Pulaski Fish & Wildlife Area (in.gov/dnr/fish-and-wildlife/properties/jasper-pulaski-fwa/sandhill-cranes). In the Chicago area, we’re more likely to hear them on a crisp, early, December day. But today’s winds are gusty and warm, with powerful westerly breezes carrying some of the last autumnal temperatures of the year and creating upper-air patterns for these magnificent birds to traverse northeastern Illinois.

As I stood in the yard, scanning the skies for the source of their calls, I spotted about a dozen birds gracefully cruising overhead on their way to somewhere else. The sight reminded me of the beauty of the changing seasons. 

This month, we’re easing into the holiday spirit with a focus on self-care—for ourselves and those on our gift lists. In our main feature, “Soulful Holiday Gifts,” health and lifestyle coach Caitlin Ball explains how mindfully selected self-care gifts do more than bring momentary delight; they can nurture the heart and soul. Whether it’s a specially curated basket or an experience that helps recharge the spirit, thoughtful giving becomes an investment in joy and peace—the true essence of the holidays. 

“During the holiday season, increasing self-care can be beneficial,” says herbalist Linda Conroy in “Herbal Care: A Self-Care Primer,” where she shares her favorite herbs for teas, soothing baths and aromatherapy. For the book lovers on your list—and to support local shops—Sheryl DeVore spoke with Chicago-area booksellers to recommend their top titles in “Must-Read Books for Nature Lovers This Holiday Season.” 

‘Tis the season for baking, and if healthier holiday treats are on your menu, our Conscious Eating section offers tips for easy ingredient substitutions and recipes with less sugar and gluten-free options. “It has never been easier to make gluten-free cookies that taste almost identical to their gluten-based inspirations,” says Katie Wells in “Healthier Holiday Cookies.” Recipes like Chewy Chocolate Chip Almond Cookies and Chocolate Coffee Cookies by Christina Pirello are sure to delight. 

To offset those indulgences, Julie Mackey presents a creative way to stay active and mindful this season in “Flex and Flow Through the Holidays with 12 Days of Yoga.” It’s a fun way to keep moving and reconnect during this busy time of year. 

This season, I encourage you to help maintain inner balance by connecting daily with the natural wonders of December. Whether the month stays unseasonably warm or takes on a wintry chill, try to step outside each day to reflect and reconnect with the world around us. Listen for the cheerful “dee-dee-dee” of a chickadee on a sunny morning. Notice the delicate bird and squirrel tracks etched into freshly fallen sidewalk snow. Gaze at the luminous Cold Moon on December 15, take a mindful walk on the Winter Solstice and celebrate the gradual return of daylight that starts later this month. Listen for the bugles of sandhill cranes overhead and allow the reflective stillness of early winter to settle within you.

Wishing you a season of peace, joy and meaningful connection.