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Dear Friend,

I love the way my wife, Pam, cooks turkey. It's always moist and flavorful. My big Thanksgiving chores are to get down the roasting pan the night before, and then get up early the next morning to put the bird in the oven. That way we can eat shortly after noon. Now Pam has made this meal lots of times, but I think when she sees "Our Ultimate Thanksgiving Feast" menu in this month's issue, our family's holiday celebration might change a bit. In fact, if your turkey isn't always moist and tender, be sure to try Lisa Marie Stroup's Apple Brandy Turkey. It was wonderful, just like Pam's. Plus, even if you're a first-time holiday dinner host, Assistant Foods Editor Cindy Briscoe's timeline and helpful hints will ensure your culinary success. To check it out, turn to page 92.

If you are not into cooking but do get into the season, why not plan a trip to Virginia's Colonial Williamsburg, where their fine chefs will do the cooking for you? I know Associate Travel Editor Mark Stith, Senior Travel Photographer Art Meripol, and Photo Stylist Rose Nguyen never missed a meal while researching their piece on this wonderful family place. The story starts on page 14.

Each November our goal is to give you more than 100 recipes (this year we offer 103). To reach this number, many years ago we created a special foods section called "Holiday Dinners." Once again, this year's section, beginning on page 143, provides you with all the special recipes you will need for your holiday entertaining and dining.

Finally, to top off our foods presentation this month, Assistant Foods Editor Joy Zacharia and Test Kitchens Professional Rebecca Gordon provide all the necessary information for you to bake your own fresh bread. They promise that even I can make homemade bread with their easy step-by-step instructions. Even though I have always been scared of my yeast not rising, this year I plan to give it a try. If you want to join me, flip to page 194.

Happy Thanksgiving, friend, and welcome to the holidays.

Best regards,

John Alex Floyd, Jr., Editor

John Alex Floyd, Jr., Editor

Copyright Southern Progress Corporation Nov 2003
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