Life at Southern Living

Southern Living, Jan 2003 by Floyd, John Alex Jr

Dear Friend,

Some folks you work with area sheer joy. The joy of working with Editorial Director Kate Greer for the past four years has been one of the great experiences of my career. Kate has helped me understand what our travel message to you should include, she's provided leadership on our annual Favorites issue, and she's helped expand our state-specific coverage. In addition to these magazine-related duties, she developed our TV and public relations areas into excellent extensions of the magazine.

Now Kate and her husband, Gordon, have chosen the Eastern Shore of Maryland for their retirement. I know Kate will fill her days with activity. In fact, she has already informed me that she plans to take sailing lessons. Kate will be missed by all here, but her contributions to Southern Living will continue to be enjoyed by you and me.

As a tribute to enjoying life more, Kate developed our annual Wellness special section, which starts on page 35. If you read her story "Healthy Steps" (pages 64-65), you'll see that she practices the good life herself, walking and savoring the great outdoors every day. Walking is also something I try to do to exercise, even on the coldest days in January. Of course, I have my own special motivation-my dogs, Callie, Andy, and Bradley (two Westies and a springer), would pout if we missed a single day, so my incentive is partially family peace.

If you want comfort that's perfect for the season, try Esau Graham's Hoppin' John on page 86 or Dotty Griffith's Chili Con Came on page 89. Take some time to share warm memories with the family by putting together a scrapbook. We tell you how to make it special on page 100. Want a bit of sunshine in your life this month? An inexpensive solution is to buy a pot of primroses (page 94); if you want to splurge, consider a Florida vacation (page 90). Whatever you choose to do, I hope Southern Living fits your needs for January.

Best regards,

John Alex Floyd, Jr., Editor