Dear Readers

Happy Lunar New Year! As we ease into 2026, many of us are considering how best to be happy and healthy this year. Simple strategies like getting out for a 15-minute walk at lunch, choosing a salad instead of a burger, preparing two vegetables for dinner instead of just one or biking with the family on the weekend can make a big difference. Even mild physical activities and one or two simple dietary shifts can make us feel better, more balanced – happier.

I heard a TED talk recently in which the speaker maintained that true happiness comes from having purpose in our lives. After meeting the basics of food and shelter, feeling that we matter, that we are making a difference, is vital to thriving. We here at NSP advocate for community building projects and volunteerism as a way to feel connected and make a community-wide difference. Volunteering as a family shows your community you care and can influence others to care, as well.

The TED talk program went on to say that environmental supports were key to providing opportunity for good decision-making and growth. Supporting education and advocating for healthy after-school programming for all children can help steer youth in your community to make good choices; it provides purpose while helping to create a community where everyone can thrive.

So here’s to a happy, healthy 2026, filled with purpose, balance and simple pleasures.

Pamela and the North State Parent Team