Maya Angelou once said that creativity is boundless: the more you use, the more you have. This issue of American Lifestyle encourages you to embrace creativity with a ceramist profile, delightful winter recipes, viewing party hosting tips, and February travel ideas.

Ceramics is perhaps the most elemental craft, as clay is literally transformed through the artist’s hands. Philadelphia-based Brian Giniewski adds a modern touch to his style of pottery by making “drippy pots” with molten glass.

Nothing melts the chill of winter like warm, homemade food, and these exclusive recipes for creamy Fireplace Mac and Cheese and flaky Port-and-Cardamom Apple Fritters are sure to stoke the fires of your culinary creativity!

It’s also an exciting time of year in sports and entertainment, with awards ceremonies and championships filling the schedule. Turn your home into party central for any occasion—from sporting events to music to movies—with these planning tips and recipes.

A February trip can even be fun if you think outside the box. There are plenty of interesting and enlightening places to take in, such as a love-centric town in Colorado, an African American history and culture museum in Washington, DC, and a jazz music festival in Idaho.

May your cup always be filled with the creative spirit. As always, it's a pleasure to send you this magazine.