While technically Sept. 22 marked the autumnal equinox and the beginning of fall, it is October that embraces us with cooler temperatures and fabulous foliage that truly mark the seasonal change.
For those of us who live in the Sonoran Desert region of the state, it’s a wonderful time to be outdoors. Hiking and biking trails are more traveled, parks transform into festival grounds, and homeowners spend more time in their yards, either gardening or simply enjoying the near-perfect weather. For those in the northern part of the state, or in higher elevations, where seasonal change really means change, many of us would like to visit and witness nature’s splendor that you find at your doorstep.
If you are thinking about taking the family north, there are two stories you should read before you go. Our eco-travel piece explores Flagstaff from a ghostly perspective. Not only is the area rich in beautiful scenery, but for those seeking a scare, Flagstaff’s haunted hotels report visitors who have stayed well beyond what nature intended. If you would prefer to stay outdoors and hopefully catch a glimpse of some of Flagstaff’s living inhabitants, our naturalist shares tips to maximize your viewing experience.
If you’d prefer a guarantee that you will see nature up close, we also have a story on an enclosed man-made tropical rainforest complete with hundreds of butterflies. If you are looking for other outdoor activities like festivals or pumpkin patches, be sure to read our calendar.
October may mark seasonal change, but this issue of Green Living is filled with other stories that involve change as well. You can witness the transformation of an iconic restaurant. You may flip when you read about the changes in yoga. And if you are thinking about changing your single status to married, we have ideas for you.
We have dedicated a special section in this issue to health and wellness. We know that October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and we understand that this is a very serious health issue that touches all of us. I recently lost a close friend to the disease and understand just how powerless you can feel when trying to help those you love as they fight for their lives. One of our articles explores what friends and family can do. Sometimes it is as simple as listening. My girlfriend lived years beyond the doctors’ predictions. She combined the most advanced western medicine with nutrition, meditation, and a zero-stress policy. Laughter was crucial as well as embracing the moments — whether through travel, photography, outdoor activities, or visiting with friends — that truly made her happy. Along those lines, we have a graphic that gives some ideas to help you find your own happiness. My girlfriend will always be an inspiration to me and will serve as a reminder not to squander life’s moments. Whether you know someone who is struggling with health issues, or if you are yourself, try to live each day to the fullest. Be inspired and maybe you will be an inspiration to others.
Photo by John Menard
