September 1989

THE GREAT AMERICAN YARD SALE

Garage and yard sales have a magical magnetic attraction. Our Saturday morning errands are constantly interrupted by plaintive cries from my wife of, "Oh, look! Let's stop at that one!"

HELPING HOMELESS FAMILIES

Here's more good news about people working together to help homeless families through The Better Homes Foundation, the nonprofit organization we first announced in our October 1988 issue. The two programs described here represent the best of how business can pitch in-- and how you can join their efforts in your hometown.

BACK-TO-SCHOOL Almanac

Here's a look at some new products and ideas for the book bag, briefcase, or brown bag.

OUR ENVIRONMENT

America the beautiful is losing its luster. Our spacious skies are choked with smog. Amber waves of grain sprout from chemical concoctions.

HOW TO LIVE TO BE 100

Breaking the century mark isn't in the cards for everyone. Still, most of us can take steps to lengthen our lives. Here's how to vastly improve your odds of a long, happy, healthy, and productive life.

OVER-THE-COUNTER ADDICTIONS

Are you a junkie? Millions are and don't realize it. These innocent addicts are hooked on many of the same remedies you'll find sitting in your medicine chest. Here's how to protect your family.

GOOD FOOD, GOOD HEALTH PROJECT LEAN

I have some good news. Better Homes and Gardens magazine is working with Project LEAN to help all of us improve our diet and health. BH&G will regularly update you on the program's activities.

THE NEW FAMILY ROOM

Remember that knotty-pine box of a room where you huddled around the TV set with Mom and Dad, eating dinner on TV trays? It grew up.

MULTI-COOK KITCHEN

Joan and Don Beerline are two avid cooks who love to share the kitchen but not cooking styles. Sound familiar? Then see how their double-up remodeling technique makes cooking together fun again.

HANG-UPS

Art and pictures bring out the best in rooms. Finding the right spots to display them, however, can bring out the beast in anyone. Here's how to avoid hang ups.

CLUTTER BUSTERS

Wade no more through chaotic closets! Here are three of the latest buyable storage organizers that will shape up your clothing and accessories.

RAKE ON WHEELS

COLORFUL CHRYSANTHEMUMS

Chrysanthemums hit their stride in gardens this month while other perennials fade in summer's twilight. You can buy potted mums in bloom now at your local greenhouse or garden center and either grow them in containers on a sunny patio, or transplant them into your perennial border.

CARRY-ALL CLEAN-UP CART

Cottage Crafts WITH Country Heart

Come on in! We've collected 25 projects that are sure to put you in the crafting mood. Look for wood, painted finishes, fabric, appliqué, knitting, crochet, and more.

NUTRITION INFORMATION

With each recipe we give important nutrition information. The calorie count of each serving and the amount, in grams, of protein, fat, carbohydrate, cholesterol, sodium, and potassium help you keep tabs on what you eat.

AUTUMN IN NEW ENGLAND

Think of fall, and New England comes naturally to mind: tree-lined country roads, stone farmhouses, the peaceful rustle of leaves across a village green. But, you'll find lots more to enjoy besides the scenery-- fall festivals, landmarks rich in history, museums, country inns, and, lately, bargain-hunting in the famed factory-outlet town of Freeport, Maine. Visit the special places we'll tell you about on the following pages, or join an organized foliage tour (recommended by your travel agent).

PETS TEACH KIDS TO CARE

If you're wondering whether your child will benefit from caring for a dog or cat, wonder no more. Recent studies point to a positive correlation between pet ownership and child development.

HOW TO ORDER

Christmas Shopping by Mail is a luxury you can afford

Let these fine catalogs bring joy and convenience to your world. You'll find something special for everyone on your list, with reliable service and affordable prices you'll sing about. Shop now and enjoy the more relaxed pleasures of the holiday season.

THE MAN NEXT DOOR

"Middle age," remarks Dot Dresch, "has arrived when you're shocked by what both your grandchildren and your parents do."