Savoring the Season

Planning for our Health & Home holiday issue began way back in July and focused on what we thought was easily the most meaningful element of the Thanksgiving and holiday seasons — enjoying celebrations with friends and family! So you'll find lots of ways to enhance your festivities scattered throughout this fun-filled issue.

We had a great time working with Jamie Roberts of Spokane Valley's Three Birdies Bakery to imagine and then create the magical cookies for our cover. (Yes, they're real, and yes, they were delicious.) And she shares her story and pro tips (page 48) for having your own cookie decorating party.

We visited Dry Fly distillery to learn about their expanding business and picked up a recipe for a delicious little holiday cocktail (page 60) that's easily adapted to a party pitcher. You'll find not one but two DIY holiday crafts (page 36), and our own Inlander team shares their holiday memories and traditions (page 42) — including some special family recipes.

And if, or when, it all starts to get a little overwhelming, refer to our 10 tips for happier holidays (page 26). Writer E.J. Iannelli sought out local and national experts for advice on how to better manage all those holiday demands.

Cheers!
Anne McGregor, Health & Home editor