Publisher’s Letter

Take a moment to think of the things in your life worth celebrating. I’m sure, just like me, you’ll find plenty, especially now at springtime—a season when the birds seem to sing louder, the buds on tree branches turn into perfectly flawless green leaves and there’s that feeling of love in the air. During this uplifting time of year, I find myself reminiscing about the moments that have shaped my past and those that will illuminate my future.

Maybe your heart still skips a beat when you remember your wedding day, surrounded by family and friends when you said those two beautiful words: “I do.” Or perhaps the fun you and your spouse had choosing your first home whether an apartment or a house—and of course, decorating it and tending to the garden. Then perhaps the recollection of the arrival of your first child—or grandchild—brings a smile to your lips.

While others may have fond memories of landing that perfect job they fought so hard to get, or something more simple, like saying good-bye to the work day and kicking back on Sanibel or Captiva islands or any of the great coastal spots in Southwest Florida.

Celebrating life can take many forms, and the happiest people I know understand that it doesn’t always mean lavish dinners and gifts. Sometimes it only takes a warm hug or an enthusiastic compliment. Doing random acts of kindness can be unbelievably rewarding not only for the receiver, but also for the giver. The friendly word or gesture to a stranger, a big smile and a meaningful “thank you” from the cashier at Bailey’s General Store (where I have experienced the warmest of smiles and thanks), or your local supermarket, are the types of contagious acts that enrich our souls and give us reason to celebrate.

For me, sometimes just living in Southwest Florida, with an abundance of cheery sunshine and the Gulf of Mexico waters nearby, is reason enough to celebrate each day. So take a moment to count your blessings, then get up, smile and embrace the day with a newfound zest.

In the pages of RSW Living, we give you many reasons to celebrate, starting with our “Southwest Florida Wedding Guide” on page 51. Whether it brings back good memories or it helps you plan your own wedding—be it your first or second— the special section covers everything, from gorgeous gowns and flowers to the finest venues and wedding planners, that a bride and groom would need.

And to make life at home happier, this issue has plenty of home and garden ideas. In our feature story, “A Little Place Called Home,” John Weisbarth, host of the TV show Tiny House Nation on A&E’s FYI network, talks about the joy experienced by homeowners who have seriously downsized. We also cover the latest interior design trends for 2015 (page 24) and which plants thrive best in Southwest Florida’s climate and soil (page 22)—sure to inspire you to get out your spade and celebrate spring by planting a hibiscus bush or two.

So what are your reasons for celebrating? I would love to know what they are, so write me at: toti.com /contactus. Daniela E. Jaeger Publisher