Fall/Holiday 2020 Issue

Happy fall, y’all!

Forever my favorite season, this year I am counting on the remaining months of this “year for the record books,” more than ever, to usher in change on many fronts.

When the seasonal wildfires that tragically have become expected in our area began even earlier this year—injuring and killing humans and entire herds of livestock as well as many wild animals; destroying homes, structures, vineyards and row crops; and blanketing even those hundreds of miles away in smoke and ash—I found myself remarking at least several times a day that I was “waiting on the locusts.” Until a friend referred me to the report from the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization that desert locusts are already swarming in African countries in record numbers this year, potentially threatening the livelihoods of 10% of the world’s population.

Sitting around waiting has never suited me anyway, so I began asking myself what I, and others, could DO!

First of all: EDUCATE ourselves on the issues that matter, like climate change. Then VOTE! like our lives depend upon it. It is no great exaggeration to say that they could.

And each and every day, including November 3 (set an alarm, friends!), take a little time to do something that brings you pleasure. It may sound glib to say that a little self-care will make the world a better place, but we have to start somewhere—and I can personally attest that it works. Phone a friend for an old school catch-up, take a hike in nature (when the smoke clears), luxuriate in a scented bath, uncork that bottle of wine you’ve been saving for a special occasion, read a magazine (hint, hint), bake a batch of biscuits (read about my own “biscuit experience” in this issue). Then slather one of those biscuits while it’s still hot with a generous helping of locally crafted butter and artisan-made jam that you’ve gifted yourself from the 12th annual Edible Gift Guide in this issue, and savor each delicious bite.

As the publisher and editor of a magazine about food and drink, I have made eating and drinking my vocation, but long before that it was a source of pure joy. I have to assume that if you’re reading this, you’re right there with me. Consider this my prescription to indulge your appreciation for good food and drink as self-care—now more than ever. You deserve it.