January 1988

EDITOR'S LETTER

I must admit that when our managing editor, Kate Greer, urged me to let her publish the questionnaire "Are American Families Finding New Strength in Spirituality?" In our September issue last year, I wasn't all that enthusiastic.

ARE AMERICAN FAMILIES FINDING NEW STRENGTH IN SPIRITUALITY?

Do you think spirituality is gaining or losing influence on family life in America? How important is it that your spouse and children share your spiritual/religious beliefs? Do you believe that you will be reunited with loved ones after death?

CUDDLE-UP AFGHANS

We haven't seen afghans as easy to make and as inviting as these in a dog's age! Collect scrap yarns of different weights and textures in one color family, then dash off some squares by weaving on a child's pot-holder loom or stitching in easy single crochet.

OUR PICKS FOR '88

Planning an easy-care garden is a snap when you plant any of the blue-ribbon roses, luscious vegetables, or bold annual flowers featured here.

1988 HOME IMPROVEMENT CONTEST

CHILD'S PLAY

From birth to adulthood, kids need play. Adults can show them the way, but then ought to step aside. Here's what you can do to help a child get the most out of playful pursuits.

NO-CHIMNEY FIREPLACE

Installing a chimney can be a costly proposition. What's more, most conventional fireplaces gobble up warm house air, sending a lot of energy up that expensive chimney. Opt for a direct-vent gas fireplace and you can forget about the chimney and those lost energy dollars.

SORROWS OF SHINSPLINTS

SUPERMARKET OF TOMORROW

Found: grocery shopping that's relaxing, enjoyable, adventurous, and not a chore! Kroger, the nation's largest food retailer, redefines shopping at its

INTEREST-RATE WOES

With the recent stock-market scare, you may be more interested than ever in parking your savings safely outside the market. But short-term interest rates can be volatile, and long-term trends aren't clear at all. How can you earn top dollar without undue risk?

HOME IMPROVEMENT CONTEST WINNERS!

Congratulations to more than 100 winners who shared $100,000 in prizes-- and thanks to all who entered our contest. In the November 1987 issue we showed you the three Grand Prize Winners. On the following pages you'll see six other First Prize Winners. And on page 42, you'll find out how you can be a winner in the next contest!

CLUTTER CUTTERS

Battle stations, everyone! It's time to wage war on your proliferating stuff. The attack plan:

NUTRITION INFORMATION

8 GREAT GARDEN VARIETIES

1. Delphinium, Fantasia Mix. If you love delphiniums, but don't have the time or energy to maintain the tall standard types, try growing Fantasia Mix.

WHAT'S NEW IN CARS FOR '88?

Fun and safety are today's watchwords for new-car design. Already, the sleek look and wind-slipping performance of aerodynamic design seem almost old-hat. So do such power-boosting devices as turbochargers, and the in-control feel of modern suspensions.

VILLA AND CONDOMINIUM VACATIONS

Imagine your family sharing a luxurious seaside villa. By day you can relax at the pool or beach. At night, you'll toast the sunset from a spacious balcony. Amazingly, you can rent a villa or condominium for just $350 per week. You just need to know where the bargains are.

HOW TO ORDER

GOOD NEWS ABOUT PETS

WHEN ANIMALS MISBEHAVE

Shopping editor's choice

Discover the ease and pleasure of shopping by mail. Order from the convenience of your own home with complete confidence. If not delighted, each company will happily refund your money.

SEW-IT-YOURSELF DECORATING

THE MAN NEXT DOOR

Aunt Emma reports that her town is so small, the bridal registry is at the hardware store.