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Dear Friend,

I like the saying: "Practice what you preach." It applies to a lot of situations. One of the things I'm proudest of here at Southern Living is that we practice what we write. This month's Homes special section, which is all about makeovers, was coordinated by Homes Editor Alice Doyle. For one of our July 2002 stones, Alice herself used a variety of hand-me-downs to remake her own guestroom. Now, as a new mom, she's remade that room again, this time for her and husband Liam's newest family addition, Declan. So as you read this special section, the "Ultimate Before-and-After Guide," starting on page 105, rest assured, we really do practice what we write.

Talking about makeovers: Have you been to St. Louis lately? As it celebrates the centennial of the 1904 World's Fair, it has become quite a city. In fact, I love what Travel Assistant Tanner Latham says in his story about the festivities: "In many ways, St. Louis looks back at the fair as its shining moment." Robert Archibald, president of the Missouri Historical Society, adds, "Forest Park [the site of the fair] is really an important example of locals looking forward." Like these men, I respect the past. I think that such a respect helps us move into the future with enthusiasm. (The story starts on page 86.) By the way, if you go to St. Louis, be sure to stop by the Missouri Botanical Gardens; it's one of my favorites. All I can say is wow.

I don't know of any family who is looking forward to the future more than the McNeils, who allowed us to cover their Texas-size anniversary celebration (see page 100). In the true pioneer spirit, when their house in town (not the ranch) burned down this winter, they had to start over completely. But, I can tell you, their family is strong, and I have no doubt that they'll succeed. They also know how to grill outdoors to get top-rated results. The reason I know all of this is because their daughter, Vanessa, works as part of our Test Kitchens team.

Enjoy May.

Best regards,

John Alex Floyd, Jr., Editor

Copyright Southern Progress Corporation May 2004
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