Josh and I were equal parts nervous and excited to see what a day planned by 9-and 4-year-old boys would lead to, but we all had a blast! Mays and Thatch wanted homemade chocolate chip pancakes for breakfast so they could knock out their required meal for the day. Then we grabbed donuts on the way to putt-putt golf, which was followed by go karts and an arcade. We stopped for candy and chips at the gas station before heading to the skate park for some indoor skateboarding, and then a matinee showing of the latest Spider-Man movie (with cotton candy and sodas of course).

The last of the cash was used on the clearance aisle at Target and a fast food dinner. When we got home, the boys put on a Beastie Boys album and had a dance party (which helped burn off some of that extra sugar) before snuggling up on the couch to watch The Greatest Showman and finishing off their remaining candy and snacks.

We all had an unforgettable day and as Josh and I relaxed into the “anything goes” mentality, the boys learned a lot about budgeting money, managing time and working together to make the most of their special day. The next morning, I couldn’t help myself from sneaking a few extra veggies into their smoothies and I went back to being a stickler about screen time and hydration. But that’s what balance is all about—if we spend most of our days making healthy choices, a day of carefree living every once-in-a-while should do no harm.

As one of the largest magazines we’ve ever published, this issue, featuring our 2020 Healthy & Green Living Directory, is a true labor of love. The knowledge and resources provided by the health- and eco-conscious businesses featured on the following pages will surely guide you toward a more balanced life of wellness. And while I sacrificed some of my own healthy habits as I spent long days and late nights sitting in front of the computer ahead of our deadline, I’m certainly eager to return to my daily yoga practice and home-cooked meals. But first, my own form of Yes Day is on the agenda—a screenfree day of rest followed by a fun-filled family evening.

When was the last time you abandoned your health conscience and cleared your calendar of obligations? Whether you feel like you’ve been living an extended Yes Day or you’re long overdue for some self-care, find peace in the moment. By simply reading Natural Awakenings, you are contributing to the health and well-being of our local community, and for that I am grateful.

With peace and appreciation,

Meredith Montgomery, Publisher