kick off of the blessed but busiest time of the year. This year, I challenge myself and my readers to remain present through the hectic holiday hustle and bustle. I purpose to reject the frenzy,
replacing the fast and furious with a slower, more enjoyable pace. For those of you who know me well, you understand this is a challenge indeed.

This year is teaching me to table the worry, putting the stress away for later. Most often, I find when ‘later’ rolls around, the issue is not quite as pressing as I imagined. Sometimes we need to table the seemingly urgent in order to tend to the important with presence of mind. This time of year prompts me to look around in gratitude. Looking back, I am grateful for all I have learned. Looking forward, I am grateful for new adventures placed in my path. God is good! Today I am grateful for small victories.

I was able to temporarily table the overwhelming to-do list, pour a cup of coffee and enjoy some time with my kids. We’re celebrating 5ive for Women’s second year! To all the contributors and
writers, you have shared amazing work. Your transparency has encouraged women of the Chippewa Valley. I receive letters weekly sharing how the articles in 5ive have inspired and encouraged. Together, we are changing lives!

I have an extraordinary group of ladies putting their heart and soul into every issue of 5ive. You have families, your own to-do lists, and work in addition to 5ive for Women. You handle it all with grace and I am forever grateful. I offer sincere thanks to Karla Roach, Melissa Dorn, Tracy Heidtke, Maureen Therou, Vicki Larkowski, Briana Craig, and my beautiful Grace. Thank you for believing in me.

I thank my faithful advertisers. Without you, 5ive for Women would not exist. Many of you jumped on board when we were just an idea. Thank you for this vote of confidence. We continue to grow and I am thrilled to share that 5ive is expanding to Janesville, WI.

This edition brings some remarkable reads. A fascinating article delves into the science of being happy and we’ll learn some great tips for reducing stress through organization. Another piece gives practical advice for managing holiday step-family dynamics. We offer some great make-ahead winter recipes freeing up family time. We’ll look at the importance of nurturing our faith.

Make sure to check out great Fab Finds for local holiday shopping. Until next year, continue taking time for the 5ive: faith, family, friends, fitness, and finance. Have a wonderful and in-the-moment holiday season.

– Jen Theisen
Publisher & Editor-in-Chief