Each January, it feels like we all rush to reinvent ourselves with new goals and routines. This year, I’ve decided not to make any resolutions. Instead, I’m leaning into intentions—giving myself time to do more of what truly brings me joy. More of my mornings are spent diving into a good book, my afternoons are filled with longer walks around the neighborhood, and I’ve rediscovered the simple pleasures of a good craft, such as embroidery and painting.
This is what the season is all about: not striving to be someone new but returning to who we are when life slows down. In that spirit, one of the stories in our wellness issue dives into healing rituals. The experts at Sila Wellness encourage us to explore how practices like meditation and Reiki help us realign and reconnect with ourselves.
I find that intention can also mean treating ourselves with kindness—and sweetness! Kellie Stocker invites us to discover her buttery, delicious scones crafted with care. She says, “It all started in my grandparents’ kitchen when I was little, and now in my own … I think people can taste the difference when something is homemade with care. My scones are baked the same way that I’d make them for my family.”
In between these pages, I invite you to meet several area students who discuss their passions. Alyssa Wang of East Ridge High School shares her love for science and art; later, four students reminisce on a medical mission trip to Honduras.
Here’s to a year of slowing down and doing more of what makes our hearts sing. Happy New Year, Readers.
