North Bay Woman

10 NORTH BAY WOMAN F A L L | W I N T E R 2 0 2 1 IN THIS ISSUE I n every issue I outline what you can look forward to reading, highlighting a few of my favorite features and enlightening stories. I will get to that below, however, I want to focus initially on the making of this issue. I work with a wonderful team of advisers, friends, divas, family, writers, photographers, sales reps, advertisers and operations staff, not to mention a wonderful publish- er and talented art and production manager. It truly takes a village! I point this out as everyone has a part; it's not just about employees or "work." It is truly a labor of love that comes from collaboration, support and information that culmi- nates from all areas of life resulting in each issue of the magazine. This drives home one of the biggest ah-ha's that has come out of Covid-19: the work-life puzzle IS integrated. (See my story in the last issue for more on this.) I think it's so important to bring this up again, as we must, as a society, as women, mothers, employers, friends, embrace life as a whole and not only support but promote others in our village. And, I would go a step further to say that we need to demand synthesis of work with all other aspects of life. When we embrace the whole, great things evolve like peace of mind, increased productivity, harmony, and terrific outcomes like North Bay Woman Magazine. The cover of this issue is a true demonstration of many pieces culminating in "oneness." We thrivers bolster each other and have also demonstrated that mind, body, soul, community, and so much more has helped us to battle breast cancer. I truly thank my husband who helped with the cover shoot, and who puts up with and boosts me up every day, and to our daughter goes much gratitude for allowing us to share her heartfelt essay. Cancer is tough, but we are tougher. Throughout this issue, Pam Cook delivers a sincere look at motherhood and what she is cherishing now that both of her daughters are off to college — another story proving that the village is mighty. Our 10 Questions with a North Bay drag entertainer epitomizes the union of com- munity and family attitudes in valuing our youth and their choices. An article about sustainable trees demonstrates our symbiotic relationship with the earth, and sleeping beauty tips remind us that self care must be a component of our lives. We have some tasty holiday recipes from Chef Anja Lee Wittels; a perfect example showcasing that many ingredients combine for a delicious outcome. Aligning our chakra points through sound is yet another illustration that the sum of many parts is necessary for completion. I hope that the stories and lessons here will entertain, motivate and allow for reflection on the fragments of life that can be brought together to strengthen all of us as a whole. To holidays, health, happiness and wholeness! Wishing you all the best, North Bay Woman and Marin IJ Advertising Manager Lori Pearce, fourth from left in black, gathers the North Bay Woman cover subjects together at the Marin Civic Center fountain April 21, 2021. – Photo by Stuart Lirette

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