Issue link: https://www.cominghomemag.com/i/1499105
'll admit it—I haven't always been an "outdoorsy" person. I've always preferred living and working in a big city with flashing lights, buzzing cars, and a lot of activity. It wasn't until just a few years ago that everything changed. In 2019, I visited Wyoming and Montana and spent ten days exploring Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park. The experience was indescribable, and I was overcome with emotion as I took everything in. The majestic mountains were invigorating, I was captivated by the wildlife, and I felt a powerful sense of peace and calmness traversing the trails and tall trees. Because immersing myself in the beauty and magnitude of nature had such a significant impact on my well-being, I couldn't help but wonder: what else have I been missing? Since that trip, I've made it my mission to find out. Now, I regularly take walks at a nearby lake, hold meetings outside when the weather is nice, and even take a camping trip every summer. That connection with nature inspired the theme of this issue: outside. Within these pages, you'll discover the best natural spectacles to see this summer (P. 13), the benefits of hiking (P. 10), and how to host the perfect picnic (P. 22). We also share our favorite backyard games (P. 30), lawn mowing etiquette (P. 12), and tips for making your community's next outdoor gathering a success (P. 31). Thank you for taking the time to read this issue. Here's to opting outside and getting nurtured by nature this season! follow us on Instagram: ‰COMINGHOMEMAG Editor's Letter Caitlin Saia Editor in Chief 4