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BETWEEN FRIENDS
`his summer, my husband,
Scott, and I officially become
empty nesters. In May, our
younger daughter, Ellen,
graduates from college. A
month later, our older
daughter, Sarah, marries a
terrific guy. Undeniably, life is moving to a
new stage—just as it should, although some
days I wonder how does it go so fast?
In preparing for these events, I’ve
recently been sorting photos of the girls’
growing-up years. There are boxes full: the
backyard picnics at our first family home; the
spontaneous July 4th kids’ parade in our old
Charlotte neighborhood; the bike rides, trips,
and day festivals we still talk about as a family.
Not to mention 27 years of birthdays, holidays,
and gatherings too many to count.
With every photo, I’m reminded of how
important experiences are to the life and
memories we create with our family. They’re
as much a part of “home” as the home itself.
That’s why, this month, we’re starting a new
Better Homes and Gardens section called
“Fresh.” It’s full of activities, finds, and
seasonal-living touches to enjoy this very
moment—at home and beyond—and make the
most of everyday life. You may have already
noticed another new feature, a calendar
themed to larger-life goals that many of us
share, page 10. You’ll also find other small
changes to make our pages lighter, brighter,
and easier to navigate.
What hasn’t changed: the attainable and
colorful indoor, outdoors, and food ideas to
help you achieve the home you love. Because
while life does go fast, home is where it
happens the sweetest and best.
Gayle Goodson Butler, Editor in Chief
2009 Prize Tested
Recipe Contest
Share your original recipes
and you could win $25,000.
We’re kicking off our annual
search for the best reader
recipe, page 227.
Contributors
This month, we welcome
talented stylist Matthew
Mead as a contributor.
Enjoy his spring-bloom
ideas, page 32, and look for
more from him ahead.
?(What goals are
you reaching
for now?
Suggest themes for our new
calendar, page 10. Tell us about
goals for your home, life, or self.
LETTERS & COMMENTS
BHGEditor@meredith.com SUBSCRIPTION HELP
BHG.com/service WRITE 1716 Locust St., Des Moines, IA 50309-3023
