FROM THE EDITOR

It's "that time of the year," the holiday season, when we enact our family traditions. We gather with family and friends to give thanks as the Pilgrims did for the privilege of having freedom--freedom from religious persecution and freedom from want. Though we often take it for granted, our bounty overflows in this country. And, though it may be our heritage, handed down through generations, it wasn't free. It was earned by our country's founding fathers and through sacrifices made by our forefathers--and our military. (November is the month we honor our vetrans, and I'm very grateful for their service.)

Military history is also part of our cover story. This issue we take you to a wonderfully renovated bed-and-breakfast inn, Wisteria Hall in Waynesboro, where owners Ralph and Nancy Lynn produce a living history re-enactment of a Civil War Christmas, and the public is invited to attend Nov. 14-15. Tradition is strong here, and professional re-enactors transport viewers back in time. For more, see "A Civil War Christmas."

From across the state, we present selections for our annual Georgia products review. Georgia has much to offer anyone looking for distinctive fine things to own or to share as gifts, says writer Jane Garvey. Ranging from blue-ribbon cheeses and snack-size bags of granola to handmade textiles and pellets for wood-burning stoves, Georgians continue to have innovative ideas. Discover for yourself in "More than peaches."

Enjoy,

Ann Orowski
Editor

ON THE COVER THIS MONTH

A Civil War Christmas is re-enacted for two days each year at Wisteria Hall, a 118-year-old, Greek-revival mansion in Waynesboro, where two Civil War battles were fought. (Photo by Shane Booth.)