Editor's note

Mississippi Magazine, Nov-Dec, 2009 by Melanie Mullen Ward

HOLIDAYS IN THE SOUTH, AND ESPECIALLY MISSISSIPPI, tend to bring out the bakers, decorators, and party planners in all of us, and they cause us to relish this wonderful place where we are lucky enough to reside. This issue reminds us why our state is so special, particularly during the holidays.

Speaking of baking, if you happen to be heading to London anytime soon, pack a bag of butterscotch chips (or two or three). The owners of Mississippi-inspired Outsider Tart bakery would be oh so grateful-read Made in Mississippi to learn why. Hattiesburg native David Muniz moved to London in 2005 and opened the acclaimed bakery with David Lesniak. The recipes that fuel Londoners' desires for their sweet treats are rooted in Hattiesburg. For another dose of inspirational baking, join some adorable little girls from Jackson Academy for a cookie party that was so spectacular it garnered a visit from St. Nick. On a delightful December day, a passel of kindergarten cuties stopped by the Laseter home in Flowood to decorate sweet treats and sip hot cocoa.

If you find yourself planning a soiree this season, then you will delight in seeing how one group of ladies spent their December bridge meeting. This decades-old bridge club enjoyed an incredible day of card playing, friendship, and scrumptious food. Also, see how Jackson's Winterfield neighborhood gathers every year for a spectacular holiday celebration. This annual event always promises fantastic decor, bountiful food, enjoyable music, and festive fun for all who attend.

And before you pull out your boxes of holiday decorations, see how several Mississippians choose to deck their halls for the holiday season. From the fragrant, fresh greenery and fruits that cover the historic home of Oxford's Swaney family to the bedazzled and jeweled antebellum home, The Towers in Natchez, you won't be disappointed with the different and amazing decorations.

If you are in Mississippi's southwest corner, stop by Woodville. This small town offers fine antiquing, delicious food (our art director Bonnie Dickerson claims that the Back Porch Cafe's crawfish etouffee is the best she has ever eaten), and natural and historical places of interest. Be sure to sample the sauces, jams, and jellies produced by Magnolia Honey Company and made with the gallons of honey harvested from the lucky honey bees who "winter" in Woodville.

Whether you're baking, decorating, or just planning your next get together, we should have you headed in the right direction or, at the very least, give you several tasty ways to enjoy your Mississippi Christmas!

Melanie Mullen Ward

Editor

editor@mismag.com