The fall and winter season is a great time of year in Phoenix; while the East coast and Midwest are preparing to be buried in snow, Phoenicians are busting out their first long-sleeved shirts and scarves of the year, tickled pink for “sweater weather.”

I’m sipping spiced apple cider as I type this, reminding me that fall is in the air (even though it’s still 80 degrees outside). The fall and winter season is a great time of year in Phoenix; while the East coast and Midwest are preparing to be buried in snow, Phoenicians are busting out their first long- sleeved shirts and scarves of the year, tickled pink for “sweater weather.”

In addition to the cooler temperatures – whenever they decide to get here – fall food and the holidays are always a joyous time.

Our November food issue is one of my favorites of the year, featuring tips for a healthy yet still flavorful Thanksgiving; agritourism activities in the Town of Queen Creek; fall and holiday recipes; a healthy food truck roundup featuring options throughout the state; a Q&A with Chef Gerard Viverito of Passionfish nonprofit; and much more.

If the holidays feel hectic, don’t miss our tips to reduce holiday stress and clutter on page 12 and our article on why massage is essential to health and wellness on page 22.

Peruse our Green Gift Guide on pages 15-17 to find the perfect local gift ideas for your colleagues, family and friends this season, and on page 14 check out the Maricopa County Food Systems Coalition Foodie Guide for some of the best gourmet fare in the state.

Also featured in this issue: an inspirational article about the FORCE BLUE nonprofit organization that is giving former combat divers and veterans a chance to learn about and protect our endangered coral reefs; the upcoming America Recycles Day; updates on honeybees and monarch butterflies being added to the endangered species lists; Jewelmer’s ethically and sustainably sourced pearls; and others.

Don’t miss our inaugural Simple Solutions Summit coming up next month! The event will take place on Saturday, December 10, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Tempe Buttes resort. We are collaborating with the VerdeXchange Arizona business conference happening December 7-9. The Simple Solutions Summit aims to bring together these top CEOs and businessmen and women in addition to their families and the general community. We will have a panel of local expert speakers discussing their simple solutions on six pillars of sustainability: air, energy, education, food, water and waste. We will also have 50 interactive booth exhibits, a kids’ area, Eco-Tank, and much more. We will also host a celebration happy hour on Friday, December 9 from 3:00 p.m.- 5:00 p.m. Please join us! For more information and to RSVP, visit greenlivingaz.com/register.

Get ready to enjoy the holidays with loved ones and remember to also take time for yourself in the upcoming busy season.

Amanda Harvey | Associate Editor