Their answers are wonderfully varied, from astronaut and police officer to ballerina or princess. Children naturally see a world without limits. To them, anything is possible; they are the ultimate dreamers.

As adults, we sometimes lose touch with the art of dreaming. Yet every great project begins not with blueprints or materials, but with a bold, uncharted idea that may seem as crazy as it is brilliant. Our minds flow with thousands of fleeting thoughts every day, yet every now and then, one sticks, takes root, and starts to grow a life of its own. Vision begins with dreamers, and it materializes with doers.

When we started brainstorming this summer edition of Focus on Carlsbad, I immediately thought of all the new construction underway. In its simplest form, a building is a noun, a brick-and-mortar structure to house people, animals, or events. But, as we uncovered the stories beneath the structures, it soon became evident that these projects are less about the buildings themselves and more about building as a verb, the act of shaping a community. It is through this movement to grow, evolve, and contribute that the abstract is shaped into something concrete.

I am always inspired when our community steps up and reaches out, offering their unique gifts for the common good. It is not about having the same talents or all joining the same effort but finding your seat at one of the tables and contributing often. The content from contributors, local businesses, and nonprofits highlights many ways community members are doing just that. Whether encouraging youth towards responsibility and a strong work ethic, restoring an iconic community space, empowering women to network and serve, or boldly expressing a knack for creativity, there are many opportunities to make a difference.

Let’s ignite that childlike spirit to dream in possibilities then, together, build these dreams from the ground up.

Allyson Joy
Associate Publisher