As I write this, we have had a pretty mild winter; yet still, I am ready for spring. I love going outside without a jacket on, seeing flowers beginning to bloom and birds building their nests. Though this year it will be a little bittersweet, as it is a strong reminder that my oldest son, Davis, will be flying from our nest pretty soon. A second semester high school senior, he is ready for his next chapter to begin—excited and curious about what the future has in store. I remember that time in my own life­—it was thrilling—equal parts scary and fun!

             As a parent to an almost adult, the letting go is the hardest part. Letting go of control and fear and sadness and making space for the universe to unfold exactly as it should. “Let go” is my mantra (words to live by) for 2017 and a very fitting one as it applies not only to my role as a mother, but by letting go, I can allow so much ease and flow into all areas of my life. Many of us tend to resist change and try to control our situations, but it gets difficult to find peace, joy and happiness when we are so focused on expectations and outcomes. Here’s a little exercise… Take in a deep breath right now. Hold it to the count of three. Now let it go, fully. Doesn’t it feel good to exhale? To let go? What are some areas in your life where you could let go just a little and make space for something wonderful to grow?

       In this issue, we let go of winter as we celebrate Agriberry Farm’s all-fruit bounty. Our feature article, “Fearless Eating,” provides tips to help move past food sensitivities and “Fit for Life” helps us let go of the mindset that “once we pass our 40th year, it’s all downhill from there.” I don’t know about you, but I feel more fabulous after 40 than I did before—it must be something about the wisdom and understanding that comes with life experience. That and the ability to let go.

       Dana Faulds says it beautifully, “Let go of the ways you thought life would unfold; the holding of plans or dreams or expectations. Let it all go. Save your strength to swim with the tide. The choice to fight what is here before you now will only result in struggle, fear, and desperate attempts to flee from the very energy you long for. Let go. Let it all go and flow with the grace that washes through your days whether you received it gently or with all your quills raised to defend against invaders. Take this on faith; the mind may never find the explanations that it seeks, but you will move forward nonetheless. Let go, and the wave’s crest will carry you to unknown shores, beyond your wildest dreams or destinations. Let it all go and find the place of rest and peace, and certain transformation.”

Happy Spring and Happy Reading!

Jessica