From the art director?

I am obviously not a writer--I usually concern myself with the visual side of this outfit. But here goes. After seven years as Art Director of this fine publication, I'm moving on to spend more time with my increasingly active family. Hopefully, I will still contribute to the magazine from time to time.

Now, I'm not under any delusions that the general public is dying to hear my thank-yous, but I have always considered this job to be a gift I have received. And Mama always said it's impolite not to say thank you.

First, thanks to Kelli, whom it has been a joy to work with, and whose professionalism is unparalleled. She is very talented, and we are so blessed to have her here.

Thanks to Wanda McCain, who can do anything and everything, do it well, and do it without losing her patience.

To the other fabulous people I work with daily whose names are always found on page 4: Lena, Paula, Diane, Renee, and Sarah. You mean more to me than I can possibly say in the length left in this little column.

Thanks to Patty Roper, who, believe it or not, was my sixth-grade teacher. All these years later, I'm still learning things from her that I will value my whole life.

And to Richard Roper, the one who gave me this gift and many more--Thank you, thank you, thank you. (How's that, Mama?)

During my time here, I have travelled to or through all 82 counties of Mississippi and have had the opportunity to experience its wealth of unique places, lush landscapes, and gracious people. I guess that's the best gift of all. So, for that one, I thank God, for giving us all this wonderful place.