December 1990

LOTS OF SMALL EFFORTS CAN MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE

Dear Readers, To my great delight, they just keep coming-- grandchildren, that is. Pictured with me above is Number 7, Adam Larsen, son of our daughter Sarah and son-in-law Chris, and little brother of Alex, whose shining face has graced this column often.

HELPING HOMELESS FAMILIES

"I am finding there is another way to live," says Linda P., who currently lives with her three children at the Clark Street House of Mercy in Des Moines, Iowa. "By going through all this work on myself, I'll give my kids an easier way to go than I had."

HOME STYLE

Have a fa-la-la time decking your halls with our collection of Christmas trims. From folksy Santas to Victorian trees, there's sure to be something to please even the pickiest on your gift list, too.

AIR BAGS IN YOUR CAR

What you should know about these lifesaving devices

Christmas FROM THE OLD WORLD

SOMETHING OLD, SOMETHING NEW, something yellow, something blue. Whether it's the materials used in building their home or the brightly colored, country-French pottery they admire, this young family mixes it all with style and an old-world feeling. They have gathered up the things-- and people-- they cherish most to create a home filled with love.

Crafting a Colonial Christmas

"I'M NEVER HAPPIER than when I have a fresh piece of jute in my hands, a whole basket of yarn, and an idea in my brain, I could just sit there for two weeks. It's my calling. I love it. I love the way it looks, I love to see all the little stitches and textures. It's great." That's how hooked-rug artist Claire Murray describes her work.

NUTRITION INFORMATION

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

Hanukkah

"JEWISH RITUALS are carried out for generations. I didn't know my grandparents, but I know I'm doing the same rituals they did. It connects me to them," says Renee Vichinsky. The former teacher is sharing those rituals with other families through her art.

PENS AND RAZORS

HARDCOVER BOOKS

HAND TOOLS

QUILTS AND COMFORTERS

RECYCLED STATIONERY

WOODEN TOYS

PERFECT PET PRESENTS

How does a cat over seven fight fatigue, stress and the onslaught of love handles

Shopping editor's choice

Discover the ease and pleasure of shopping by mail. Order from the convenience of your own home with complete confidence.

HOW TO ORDER

The craft kits, patterns, iron-on transfers, and project plans offered here are exclusive Better Homes and Gardens designs and are not available in stores. Patterns and transfers are full-size and include complete, easy-to-follow instructions; Project Plans are professional quality blueprints including detailed drawings, lists of materials, construction tips, and step-by-step instructions; craft kit contents are as listed.

THE MAN NEXT DOOR

I am surprised that no Scrooge has yet suggested that Santa ought to go on a diet. Surprised and grateful.