When it comes to grilling, my family knows I only burn stuff. It started on my first date (with my now husband, Jeff) when I was grilling steaks, got totally distracted talking to him and burned the heck out of them. While it was a good sign of our compatibility, it was a bad omen for my future as a chef. We had salad for dinner that night.

Subsequently, I'm pretty much in awe of anyone who shows talent on the barbecue, which most definitely includes the five women we profile in this month's cover story. These grilling experts have moved beyond mere mortal barbecue status and into the pantheon of champions.

Just as impressive as their pit prowess is how they met and overcame the challenges presented by this very much male-driven and -dominated field. Their stories and mouthwatering recipes (who knew you could barbecue dessert!) will have you firing up your own grill. While you're at it, check out the For Your Table recipe for grilled peaches and shrimp.

If you are like most folks who work in an office, your home became your workplace during the pandemic. Since it looks as though working from home will continue in some fashion for some people, it makes sense to have a home office that is as efficient and distraction-free as possible—easier said than done, if you are sharing the home with a partner. In our Special Section, we offer tips to keep you productive and, we hope, on good terms with your housemate, as well as how to pick the right printer for your needs.

And just because we're working from home doesn't mean we are done with laundry (those pajamas and yoga pants aren't going to wash themselves). Check out how Costco buyers are keeping abreast of the latest washer and dryer technology in Buying Smart.

Have a safe and happy July Fourth (whoever is doing the cooking)!