Publisher's Notes

by Kate Metts
Publisher

When we came up with this concept a year ago, one of the compelling reasons to have an issue like this was the increasing interest people have in health and wellness issues. The prosperity we enjoy in this country has given way to less physical activity for most of us. Couple that with our penchant for processed foods and it's not long before you have potential problems, such as heart disease and diabetes.

I am fortunate to have always loved exercise, being outdoors and even some sports. But as with most women, life changes. A husband, baby and full-time job are all great, but they don't always leave as much time for yourself as when you were single. Unfortunately, exercise typically is one of the first causalities when you're time crunched.

I've enjoyed my memberships at the YMCA and Health Central over the years, but the past two years were especially tough to find time for exercise. So earlier this year, I dropped my gym membership and tried to figure out some plan that would work for me and my schedule.

About a month ago, I finally decided that it was going to have to be in the morning before everyone else in my house is up. So three to four times a week, I get up around 6 a.m. and put in an exercise video. I have a variety: walking, abs, Pilates. If I'm lucky, I get in 45 minutes before anyone wakes up. If I only get in 30 minutes, it's still better than doing absolutely no exercise. Maybe this idea could work for you too. If not, I hope the magazine will provide some ideas and inspiration for finding an exercise program that you can adopt in 2005. With the appropriate exercise regime, we help guard our health for the future, reduce stress, control our weight, think more clearly and, quite possibly, have a good time.

A new year is a time of new beginnings. If you already are an exercise enthusiast, the magazine also includes ideas on organization, skin treatments, cosmetic procedures, diets and more.

Our wish for each of you is that 2005 is a happy and healthy year. But, if you should need a doctor, please refer to our comprehensive Augusta-area Physicians Directory, included in this issue of the magazine. We hope it will serve as a handy reference guide for you and your family throughout the year. Let us know what you think of our first January issue. In the meantime, start that diet or exercise program, make that doctor's appointment or organize those closets. If not now, when? There's a lot to accomplish this year!