Michelle Obama is cover girl for Better Homes and Gardens

Washington: After donning the cover of fashion bible Vogue and black news monthly Ebony, US First Lady, Michelle Obama is now the face of Better Homes and Gardens, a glossy magazine found in doctor’s offices and dental clinics.

The August issue features a smiling Michelle, 47, wearing a blue and white floral dress and yellow sweater, sitting at a picnic table on the White House lawn. The decision to put her out front came from an interest in her healthful-eating initiative, said Gayle Butler, editor in chief of Better Homes and Gardens. "Last year, research with our readers showed this really high priority moms have when it comes to healthy eating," Butler said. The magazine, which dates to the 1920s, has not featured a public figure out front since 1963. And Michelle is the first lady to make the cover with an article on her inside. The magazine is America`s third-largest glossy in paid circulation and the largest women`s magazine and typically displays well-appointed living rooms and vibrant gardens. Kristina Schake, the first lady`s communications director, said in a statement that Michelle "is thrilled to share the story of the White House Kitchen Garden and Let`s Move! with the millions of Americans who read" the magazine. "It can`t hurt that the magazine is based in the politically important state of Iowa and comes out as Obama has begun to get back on the campaign trail for her husband," The Washington Post noted. "She is polling 20 points higher than the president and continues to raise her profile through her campaign against childhood obesity. Better Homes and Gardens readers, 80 per cent of whom are women, are in the sweet spot of voters whom the president will need to win over," it said. Michelle has become a fashion icon and role model for women, and an advocate for poverty awareness and healthy eating. The Better Homes and Gardens story brings students from Harriet Tubman Elementary in Washington to the White House for a veggie-laden picnic lunch with the first lady. It`s complete with photos of chard and tips for helping children learn to love vegetables. PTI