I know I said autumn is my favorite time of year, but I’m amending that.
Brian Tietz
Pamela Hayford
Editor of Southwest Florida Parent & Child magazine
The entire stretch from Halloween to New Year’s Day is my favorite. It used to be spring, when I lived up north; the drab winter gives way to green plants and baby wildlife and my birthday. In Florida, though, in fall, the oppressive heat gives way to cooler temperatures, which means new life in its own way.
There are more fun events. Family and friends get together for Halloween and Thanksgiving. Then lights go up everywhere and holiday cheer can be found around nearly every corner. While the holidays are stressful — there’s so much to do — it’s also a time of hope and love, a time when the warmth comes from within rather than without.
We hope you’ll find this month’s issue a gift as well. We’ve compiled some 30 holiday events that have become tradition for many families in Southwest Florida. We also bring you the story of Kristen Peterson, a single mom who started a nonprofit that now helps dozens of single parents. There’s fun, too, like Eve Time, our holiday spin on the Me Time and 5 Things product pages. There are tips for cooking with your kids and how to make your home a place where your teen and their friends actually want to hang out.
Most of all this holiday season, we hope you find love in each other and spend time appreciating each other. May your holidays be merry and bright.
