“Let's go take a hike!” Jim and I have enjoyed exploring local trails, discovering just how much natural beauty Florida has to offer. We've encountered turtles, lizards, towering pines and peaceful rivers along the way. And while Florida's mostly flat terrain has its advantages, we're looking forward to something different as we head to Brevard, North Carolina, for some mountain hiking.

As I write this, we're preparing for our trip, with waterfalls, winding trails and a little elevation change on the agenda. Brevard is also known for its white squirrels, so we'll be keeping our eyes open for one of those, too! I'm not sure what we'll encounter, but that's part of the fun of exploring somewhere new.

After reading How Trees Make Rain: The Wonder of Forests and Weather [page 24], I'll be looking at the forests with a new appreciation. I knew trees were essential to our environment, but I hadn't realized how much they contribute to rainfall through the moisture they release into the atmosphere. It makes me appreciate the remarkable connections in nature that we often overlook.

Our Feature Story, Growing Our Capacity for Gratitude [page 10], explores how noticing and appreciating specific moments can help make gratitude part of our everyday lives. As Brendan Cournane reminds us, “By developing gratitude as a practice and as a part of our lives, we allow ourselves to pause and acknowledge that no matter how challenging this moment is, there is something to be grateful for.”

There's plenty more to explore this month, from staying healthy and active in Building Strength for Life: Why Resistance Training Is a Key to Aging Well [page 28], The Prediabetes Wake-Up Call: Lifestyle Changes To Keep Diabetes at Bay [page 18] and Blueprint for Alzheimer’s Prevention: A Conversation With Dr. David Perlmutter [page 20], to caring for those we love in Helping Children Navigate Loss: Gentle Grief Activities for Young Hearts [page 26] and Safe Havens for Happy Dogs and Cats Designing a Stress-Free Space for Our Pets [page 22]. With Thanksgiving around the corner, Healthy Swaps for the Holiday Table: Thanksgiving Never Tasted So Good [page 14] offers fresh ideas for holiday favorites. And don't miss our online exclusives at my-NA.com, including Green Gift Guide for the Holidays and November’s Call for Introspection.

Here's to taking the scenic route, appreciating the little things and maybe spotting a white squirrel along the way!

Kris Urquhart
Publisher