Gratitude put to paper causes a ripple of kindness. Blair has thanked people from his past and from today. Some were celebrities, others have been ordinary people doing extraordinary things, people from news stories, his fourth-grade teacher and dozens of others whose actions — big and small — have deserved a note. ...

Our January/February issue of the magazine features stories about winter hiking. Here's another story about how to recognize frostbite and frostnip when you're enjoying NEO's trails, out in the frosty air. ...

We can't think of a more appropriate way to celebrate Black History Month than by reading terrific books that illustrate the many facets of Black lives, both fictional and through autobiographies. Consider these selections. ...

Dr. Bombay from the ‘60s sitcom “Bewitched” treated his witch patients (and an occasional non-witch) with a combination of spells, miracle pills and other unconventional treatments. If that’s your reference point for non-mainstream medicine, it’s time to adjust your thinking. Sound therapy, biofeedback, hypnosis and other clinically tested therapies can be valuable tools for caregivers and patients, widening treatment options. The alternative has become mainstream. ...

Meaningful tidbits: Send a thank-you note… every day. For a year. Akron Urban League - meeting needs in trying times. Punches, kicks, spit and thanks - a reporter’s story. Cleveland Public Library bring the world to your doorstep. And meet Virginia Phillips, the artist behind our cover ...

It’s easy to idealize our 20s, now that they’re firmly in our rearview mirror. It was a fun part of my life, but it also came with an undercurrent of uncertainty. I knew that a lot was going to happen, but my path was bracketed by fuzzy outlines that intimidated rather than inspired. ...

Many of us have turned to hiking as a way to safely connect with friends while getting some much-needed exercise, fresh air and sunshine. That was easy to do when the weather was nice and the days were long. Winter is a tougher sell. Don’t be intimidated. Judging by the dozens of hikes scheduled each week throughout Northeast Ohio, a lot of people are doing a lot of wintertime hiking and they encourage the winter-weary to join them. ...

Look for the January/February issue of Northeast Ohio Boomer and Beyond coming to newsstands (Marc's, Discount Drug Mart, Giant Eagle and others) starting Jan. 21. Of course, Boomer Insider Club members get our print issue mailed directly to their homes. But if you're out and about, look for our next issue featuring winter hikes throughout Northeast Ohio, just for starters. You can also read the issue online at northeastohioboomer.com. You'll find a wide range of topics that will enrich your journey to “Better Living After 50.” ...