Julie Pierce

I’ve been working on a big item on my bucket list over the past year—building a custom home. Actually, it’s been more than two years considering all the planning and details involved in working through the home building process. It’s been quite a journey and I’ve learned so much. We’re on the tail end now and in 2020 I plan to share some snippets of what I’ve learned, ideas and tips that may help you with your next project. We’ve worked with so many talented craftsmen, designers, contractors and service providers in our area, many right here on the pages of HOME magazine, that helped us along the way. 

If a renovation or update is on your list for 2020, HOME is here to help; from how to make the most of a small kitchen footprint to the latest flooring options to exercising good organizational habits. If you’re trying to live healthier, we’ll show you how to improve health and wellness in your home; this is a real thing, largely driven by aging baby boomers and health-conscious millennials who want living spaces that nurture their minds and bodies. 

Dreaming of spring? Our garden articles may inspire you to elevate your yard by creating a cutting garden so you can enjoy year-round fresh blooms, or a natural privacy fence by selecting just the right plants or trees to screen out distractions and make your back yard one of tranquil seclusion. 

Our feature home in this issue is a real treat. Local legend astronaut Leland Melvin opened his stunning Bedford County home to us. It was such a pleasure meeting him and learning all about his home and property, affectionately named Melvin Meadows. 

I hope this issue of HOME will inspire you to check a few things off your list this year. I might fantasize about another one of my bucket list items: being part of a rock band. Any group looking for a mediocre keyboardist? 

For now, I need to finish up my current big project and gear up for HOME’s first READERS’ FAVORITES awards. You’ll find all the details in this issue about how to nominate and vote for your local favorites. 

Thanks for reading,
Julie 

Julie Pierce, Publisher
julie@westwillowpublishing.com