February 2007

Editor's letter

Conventional wisdom says that people resist change. I disagree, at least as it applies to the readers of Better Homes and Gardens magazine. By our very nature as home enthusiasts, we embrace improvement.

"What are you doing in your home right now that gives you a sense of a fresh start?"

We asked this question, and you answered loud and clear: When you make good things-- large or small-- happen at home, your whole life takes on a warm glow.

Creative from coast to coast

The Better Homes and Gardens team of field editors brings you the best of what's new in America's homes. Meet a few of the 50+ partners who help us find the homes we feature.

MORE WAYS TO TALK GET CONNECTED!

SHE COOKS. HE COOKS

DECADENT CHOCOLATE DESSERTS

COLOR A ROOM ONLINE

Love Notes

Make someone's Valentine's Day with a greeting that's crafted by hand and comes from the heart.

Painted Lady

Window Dressing

Transform your curtains from simple to chic in one afternoon by adorning plain ready-made panels.

Order in the Drawer

Are you fighting a tug-of-war with drawers crammed full of plastic containers? It's time for a little music therapy. Borrow your old CD rack and get things on track.

Romancing Rustic

A playful mix of provincial architecture and pretty furnishings transforms a run-down cottage into a welcoming retreat.

Laura's Haven

"I love that there is something beautiful in every corner of my bedroom, a story in everything."

Shelf Examination

Is your linen closet an avalanche of towels, sheets, and random items? Use these tips to restore some order.

Mix Mastered

A new living room meets an old hodgepodge of furniture. Sparks don't fly. Enter designer John Loecke, who plays matchmaker with a two-part makeover that eases in romance without breaking the bank.

Sunshine State

A cheerful update with family friendly materials, an upbeat color palette, and smart everyday solutions gives this kitchen a smile.

Northern Light

This sunny space showcases today's Scandinavian country style-- a look that's bright, airy, and relaxed.

STYLE SECRETS FROM THE PROS

Q: We asked our network of field editors from across the country: What's the quickest, easiest thing you can do today to make your home look like it's ready for the pages of a magazine?

Painting with Flowers

A garden needn't be huge to make a big impact. Here's now a Southern California garden turned her small front yard into a cottage garden.

PLANTING ROSY FUTURE

Our favorite tools and tips for everyone who loves to dig

WISDOM LET SLEEPING BULBS LIE

NEW TOOLS MULTI-TASKER

THIS MONTH IN THE GARDEN

A Side Order of Sun

Eliminating a driveway opens up space for an enclosed garden on the sunny side of the house.

Potting Up Spring

Outdoor steps are the ideal stage for container-grown shrubs, perennials, annuals, and bulbs that jump-start the season.

Snow Much Fun

When Mother Nature gives you a day off, use it to rediscover the childhood joys of winter.

Off-Peak and Perfect

New ideas for the home. Big travel savings. Fun for the family. in winter, these cities offer everything except crowds.

Don't Shy Away

Most young kids go through a shyness phase. But even if your teen is behaving bashfully, she doesn't necessarily want to be alone.

Calendar Girls

Want to get the most out of your organizer-binder? Take a page from these three women, who've adopted-- and creatively adapted-- standard planners to their work and family lives.

Living ala Lulu

In a house surrounded by gardens, Lulu Powers lets her playful, eclectic style run free.

Perfectly Imperfect

Pristine doesn't cut it for everyone. This Texas homeowner finds her bliss in salvaged items and new things made to look old.

The Constant Gardener

In a modest front yard, an Iowa gardener keeps the color coming. Her easy-grows-it advice can give you flower power too.

HOT STUFF

TAKE YOUR PICK

BITTERSWEET CHOCOLATE

GOOD FOR YOU

FUN-DO

DESSERT TO GO

Dipped Strawberries

Hardy Garden

Red and Purple Hat Almond Pound Cake

I DID IT!