A home is not just the American dream..."A home is where the heart is" a cliche possibly. Many storms left their tracks across the country, with many homes lost and hearts broken.  On April 16th, 2011 those storms hit home here in the Triangle. Many friends, families neighbors and strangers where left homeless. A quote that may have been thought of as a cliche left my heart in sorrow while driving through so many neighborhoods left in rubble.  Debris everywhere, clothes, children's toys, photographs, piles of wood that used to be homes. I came to the home industry by publishing but quickly realized what a home encompassed. Not just beautiful craftsmanship or elegant furnishings but a place where couples became one and families grew and memories were made. I discovered that a house was so much more then a simple structure. It is what gave me passion for what I do and what I support. Yes, the cliche, the support of the American dream to own and build homes and lives.    

Benjamin Franklin said "Well done is better than well said."  A sign that hangs above my desk as a reminder to put my heart into it and doing is what fulfills. With this being said, I want to thank my family at New Homes & Ideas, friends, advertisers and Giuseppe, owner of Serena's Gastro Pub, (event location) that came out or showed support on May 5th to do just that. They opened their hearts and their pockets for those that lost so much more than a structure. In support of the American Red Cross and local tornado victims, we raised over $2000. A few hours with friends provided some a new beginning. My heart and appreciation goes out to all involved in the efforts to help!

I hope you enjoy what this issue provides. "What Makes a House a Home" is an article that any home enthusiast will love!