April 2023

DESIGN FEATURING CARA GREENSTEIN AND PARKER DESIGN STUDIO

26 | HOME FEATURE

A homeowner's love of bold colors drove the reshape of a classic ‘60s-era home in East Memphis by Elizabeth Malmo Interior Design.

42 | DESIGN

Cara Greenstein of local blog Caramelized, and her husband partner with Ann Parker of Parker Design Studio to turn their house into a home for their growing family.

APRIL 2023 • VOL. 22 NO. 1

PUBLISHER / EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

MARGARET MONGER | mmonger@athomemms.com

MANAGING EDITOR

AUBREY ANN MONGER | aamonger@athomemms.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

GINNI JONES | gjones@athomemms.com

COPY EDITOR

TERRI GLAZER

IMAGING

COLOR MANAGEMENT

CHARLES REYNOLDS | cr@colorretouching.com

ADVERTISING

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

HILARY FRANKEL | hafrankel@comcast.net

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

GAIL HARRELL | gharrell@athomemms.com

CHRIS PUGH | chrisapugh@gmail.com

REGIONAL MARKETING

JANA FITE HERBISON | jfherbison@gmail.com

BUSINESS

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

TRIP MONGER | tmonger@athomemms.com

MARKETING AND CIRCULATION

HARRIET W. DEATON | hdeaton@athomemms.com

HOW TO REACH US

7776 FARMINGTON BLVD, # 1321 GERMANTOWN TN 38183 | 901.684.4155

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At Home Memphis & Mid South doesn't accept unsolicited manuscripts. To inquire about freelance opportunities, send a letter, resume and three writing samples to—Editor, At Home Memphis & Mid South : 7776 Farmington Blvd, # 1321 Germantown TN 38183

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Call 901.684.4155 or subscribe at athomemms. com . Annual subscription rate: $19.95. Single copy price: $4.99. At Home Memphis & Mid South is published 12 times a year. Postmaster: Send address changes to At Home Memphis & Mid South , 7776 Farmington Blvd, #1321 Germantown TN 38183 . We make every effort to correct factual mistakes or omissions in a timely and candid manner. Information can be forwarded to Trip Monger; At Home Memphis & Mid South , 7776 Farmington Blvd, #1321 Germantown TN 38183 or to tmonger@athomemms.com.

@athomemagazine

We are forever grateful and look forward to many years to come.

Pop the bubbly, AT HOME is 21! We launched our first issue in April 2002. It truly seems like yesterday yet so much has happened since then it blows my mind. Two hundred and fifty-two months of sharing with you beautiful homes, thanks to the talented artists and interior designers with whom we have been so fortunate to work.

April holds a few more birthdays in our family and two of them are pretty significant, to say the least. Our first grandson to this Maggie and Buddy and first baby to our son and daughter-in-law/managing editor turns one! We will be celebrating the birth of Miles Monger April 14! This little guy had already entered our hearts before he made his debut in our world. He is full of smiles and joy, and we can’t wait to celebrate our Miles man! Our favorite little guy shares his birthday month with his “Buddy” aka Trip, who turns the big 60 on April 2. When I think about it, they have a lot in common. They both love their food and are kind of messy eaters, both waddle a bit trying to walk and, most importantly, both their smiles melt my heart and I love them dearly.

I hope your families enjoy celebrating some special times or people this month. I don’t have to look far to find something to be thankful for and this month I am especially thankful for you, our readers, Buddy and our grandson Miles. I look forward to celebrating you all for years to come!

— Margaret Monger, PUBLISHER

for a new

SEASON

STORY TERRI GLAZER | DESIGN ELIZABETH MALMO INTERIOR DESIGN PHOTOGRAPHY SÉLAVIE PHOTOGRAPHY

“COMING FROM ATLANTA IN 2020, WHERE THE TREND WAS STILL VERY MUCH THE NEUTRALS, I WANTED THIS HOUSE TO BE AN EXPLOSION OF COLORS—MY FAVORITE COLORS. AND I WANTED IT TO REFLECT HOW WE LIVE IN RETIREMENT NOW.”

Those two principles guided the reshaping of a classic ‘60s-era home

in an established East Memphis neighborhood.

Designer Elizabeth Malmo oversaw the project with RKA Construction as the contractor. Says Malmo “Everything just needed to be touched. We didn’t knock down a lot of walls, though. The layout as you see it is almost as it was originally.” Short of taking out walls, however, the home’s renovation was all-encompassing. “There’s not a hinge, not a doorknob, not a light fixture that hasn’t been changed,” says the homeowner.

Malmo,owner and lead designer of Elizabeth Malmo Interior Design, says she wanted the entryway to have a big impact and “why not have fun,” she adds, referring to the statement wallpaper and crisp white light fixture. Twin poufs under a console table give a hint of the coral hues that reappear throughout the home. The only surface in the area that remains as it was is the floor. Malmo and the homeowners agreed that the white marble terrazzo is classic and should remain as a nod to the home’s heritage.

Just through the foyer is a little niche that the owner calls “pure Elizabeth.” A former coat closet now is home to a charming banquette, over which hangs a vintage Carroll Cloar painting. The couple’s art collection is large and varied, from paintings created by family members to works by local and regional artists.

In the living room Malmo incorporated the homeowner’s request for “a teal velvet couch inset into bookshelves,” then took the concept to a more intense level by painting the shelves, the walls and all the trim in Benjamin Moore Woodbury Green, a supersaturated teal. She added a pair of slipper chairs in a mouth-watering shade of coral. The punchy colors blend perfectly with traditional and antique pieces the family brought from their previous home in Atlanta.

Just past the living room, the dining room almost seems to glow, thanks to another design feature requested by the homeowner. “I knew I wanted a coral, lacquered ceiling in that room,” she says. Paired with subtle white grasscloth on the walls, a vintage Oushak rug in traditional reds and blues, an antique oval table and freshly reupholstered chairs, the effect is stunning.

the most unique feature of the space is the creative reimagining of a former closet. “We had the idea to make it into a china cabinet. It was narrow and deep before and we both thought it could be something better,” explains the designer. Better indeed is the eye-catching little built-in covered in coral paint and accented with the cutest Brunschwig and Fils dotted wallpaper lining its back face. “RKA did an exceptional job of taking our vision and creating this little moment,” she adds.

The kitchen’s original layout made sense and the appliances had been updated recently,

perhapsso a complete redo was unnecessary. Malmo freshened up the cabinet hardware and fixtures, added new window treatments and replaced the countertops with quartzite in a subtle pattern. The homeowner loves the stone, but the details that Malmo paid attention to have her singing the designer’s praises. “When they were measuring for the backsplash she said ‘Wait a minute.’ She got out a piece of paper, drew the shape out and asked them, ‘Can you make it like this?’ The result is a combination of right angles and curves that adds a graceful touch to not only the kitchen, but is repeated in several of the bathroom stone treatments.

Malmo

freshened up the laundry area and powder bath behind the kitchen with more of the homeowner’s beloved teal in both the paint and the wallpaper, glammed up with shiny gold accents. Classic penny tile on the floor will withstand the wear and tear that’s inevitable in a rear entry area. RKA hit another home run with the custom vanity in the half bath, proving that even a small space can exude elegance.

The spacious family room overlooks the home’s scenic backyard. Off to the side, the garage was originally open and could be seen from the den. Now it’s buttoned up handsomely with louvered shutter panels painted in a time-honored Charleston green, thanks to Malmo’s creative suggestion to improve the view from the spot where the couple often spends time relaxing and watching TV.

The room’s focal point is a custom wet bar, another must have for the homeowners. Reeded wood cabinet fronts in a beautiful honey-colored finish, black countertops and brass accents define the generously sized space. By design, there’s plenty of room for the hosts to entertain, and they frequently do.

Along with the primary suite, the home’s main floor includes two extra bedrooms, set up as personal spaces for the couple; an office for him and a “retreat” for her. The office is handsome and masculine with walls bathed in a deep blue and covered with mementoes of a successful career. All work and no play would not do, though so keepsakes from his long-held hobby of golf are also on display. Her retreat is the perfect blend of glamor and whimsy with a burl wood desk, a white fun fur footstool and a fanciful Quadrille wallpaper on the ceiling.

theupstairs is dedicated to making guests feel at home, an important concept since the homeowners have out-of-town friends and family over often. Two comfortable bedrooms give visitors privacy. Malmo redesigned the upstairs bath intelligently, taking out two unneeded closets and replacing them with a freestanding vanity and stool. She also raised the height of the original cabinets to a more comfortable 35 inches, and replaced the countertops, floors and lighting.

Also upstairs is a small room, too large to be a closet, but not really a full-sized bedroom. After discussing several possible uses for the space, Malmo and the homeowner settled on making it multi-purpose. It’s furnished beautifully, with an inviting loveseat that makes a cozy spot for guests to relax with a morning cup of coffee. The loveseat is a sleeper, though, allowing the nook to function as a private sleeping space when needed. “Our oldest granddaughter is 14 and she loves it. Of course, this is where she sleeps when she comes to visit,” says the homeowner.

The renovated home now suits its owners to a tee, tastefully decked out in their ideal color palette, their treasured art and furniture blended seamlessly with thoughtfully chosen new pieces and perfectly suited to the way they live in retirement.

BECOMING HOME

STORY BY TERRI GLAZER | DESIGN BY PARKER DESIGN STUDIO | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANNABELLA CHARLES

When a well-known local blogger and her husband moved from a compact downtown condo to a spacious East Memphis residence, they teamed up with designer Ann Parker to “course out” their new home’s renovation. The young couple wanted to turn the house into a home for their growing family a room at a time.

Potential design options were limitless, as they brought only a few pieces with them in the move.

says homeowner Cara Greenstein. With Parker’s help, Greenstein and her husband Alex Shindler made a plan for the entire house and prioritized the order in which they’d focus on each space.

First on the redo menu was the kitchen, naturally. More than just a place to prepare family meals, the space is essential to the operation of “Caramelized,” the award-winning food and lifestyle blog Greenstein began about a decade ago. Plans for the kitchen remodel were finalized as soon as the house went under contract and work was completed before the couple moved in just before Thanksgiving 2021.

“It was a really fun opportunity to start fresh; we could be intentional about it, ”

withthe kitchen checked off the list, Greenstein and Parker turned their attention to the areas of next highest priority, the living room and dining room. And since the couple’s first baby was on the way, a nursery came into the picture, as well.

Asked about the initial design vision she shared with Parker, Greenstein says, “I tend to go for a clean, somewhat minimalist palette. My townhome was very neutral. Ann pushed me to think bigger.”

Parker started nudging her client a bit past her comfort zone with the first items they selected for the living room, a pair of modern chairs in a deep merlot velvet. Although she loves them, Greenstein admits that, left to her own devices, she would have opted for neutral upholstery.

“The two chairs were our catapult in the living room design,” Parker adds. “Then pieces evolved, like the rug. We worked through what would look good—it's very collected. We didn’t just sit down and figure it out all at once, it was over a period of time.”

Greenstein was excited to have a fireplace in her new living room, and Parker viewed its redesign as “an opportunity to have some dramatic moments but still in Cara’s DNA.” She opted for a Cambria stone treatment from floor to ceiling. The bold veining in the stone makes a statement, and the subtle matching ledge mantel blends without breaking up the movement.

Situated in the center of the home, the living room has few windows, so a large mirror on the wall opposite the fireplace was the logical choice to add luminosity. But not just any mirror. Leading her client to something out of the ordinary, Parker enlisted Chris Garner of Garner Framing Co. to create a piece that’s more work of art than looking glass. “It really just evolved with Chris and his skill and his thought process,” says Parker. Garner’s creation, a series of wide antiqued glass strips in varying tones, creates impact with its clean lines.

“It's such a mood in here. I love it with the gold accents. I've hosted some dinner parties so far and I'm really excited to do it more often. It's exciting to have really dedicated spaces for doing what I love.”

— Homeowner Cara Greenstein

visual interest in the dining room comes from striking navy blue wallpaper with gold accents that covers the walls and the ceiling. “That’s something I would have never done on my own, but I just love these subtle examples that really make a difference,” says Greenstein.

The room is a prime illustration of the collected ambiance the homeowners and designer sought. The new dining table is surrounded by eight vintage chairs sourced from online consigner New to Me TN. An original oil painting dated 1965 that graces the wall came from the home of Greenstein’s grandparents.

"Thisis one of the rooms where Cara was definitely the design leader,” says Parker of the nursery. “I was her touch base.” Incorporating her love of all things edible into every aspect of her life, Greenstein chose mushrooms as the inspiration for her new baby boy’s room. “They’re one of my favorite foods!” she admits.

Adorable mushroom wallpaper found on Etsy lines one wall; Parker chose a coordinating stripe for the other three. With a nod to a woodland theme, the room’s palette leans to neutrals with sage and eucalyptus accents. Washed woods keep the look light and airy, and a white boucle glider and ottoman make a comfy spot for quality time with baby Hudson. Faux taxidermy heads of a longhorn and a razorback are a clever and cute nod to the alma maters of Greenstein and Shindler.

The new mom gushes over the nursery closet remake, done by local organization firm Trazo Design in collaboration with The Container Store. The pros at Trazo transformed every inch of the long, shallow closet into practical and accessible storage space with plenty of small containers just right for tiny baby items.

Greenstein says it’s been a pleasure working with Parker on the master plan, and that she and Shindler are looking forward to adding their style to every part of the house. Parker echoes those sentiments, saying she enjoys helping the young family establish their home. That is the icing on the cake.

sources

LIVING/DINING

Design: Parker Design Studio

Fireplace: Cambria Quartz Surfaces (Material); Countertops of Me mphis (Quartz Fabrication); Coopertown Chimney Services ( Insert Fabrication)

Merlot chairs & leather stools: Spruce

Antiqued mirror & framed art: Garner Framing Co.

Tabletop accessories: Bella Vita

Cupcakes: Smallcakes Collierville

Florals: Garden District

Vintage baby car: London & York

Dining room lighting: Hunter Fan

Dining room chairs: Sourced from New to Me TN

Living room lighting: Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Cordova

Rug: Kiser's Floor Fashions

NURSERY

Closet design and organization: Trazo Design

Closet fabrication: The Container Store

Furniture: go to caramelizedblog.com/nursery

Baby wagon: London & York

BELLA ITALIA

TEXT & PHOTOS COURTESY OF BARBARA MAY, OWNER OF TRAVEL LEADERS

Did you know that Italy is one of the most visited countries in Europe? Every year more than 90 million tourists come to this lovely country. Italy’s endless scenery, rich history, delicious food and wine, astounding sites, the Mediterranean Sea, and the wide array of charming accommodations satisfy both seasoned travelers and first-time visitors. It is the perfect destination any time of the year.

Some of the most beautiful places in Italy are also among the most picturesque in the world. In fact, few nations can claim as wide a range of natural beauty as Italy, from craggy peaks and verdant hills to turquoise waters lined by white-sand beaches. The country is also home to some of the most renowned art and architecture on the planet, from the astonishing cathedrals of Rome to the rainbows of houses flanking the canals in Venice.

Italy offers something for everyone, year round. The winter months are perfect for enjoying the snow in the Italian Alps or other mountains. Summer is the time for sunbathing and exploring Italian islands and coastal towns. Spring and autumn are also wonderful, especially for travelers who want to explore ancient Italian cities and monuments.

The south of Italy is home to sunkissed beaches and miles of olive groves. The central regions boast of rich farmlands with ancient villages and some of the most famous wines in the world. Each of Italy’s 20 regions has its own allure, from Piedmont to Sicily, and the differences between Italian regions are sometimes vast. This astounding variety necessitates return trips to the beautiful boot rather than only a single visit.

Italian cuisine is one of the country’s most significant legacies and the incentive for many to visit the country. It offers something for every taste—pizza, pasta, pesto, gelato, bruschetta and a lot more.

GELATO

For anyone who appreciates high-quality ice cream in a huge selection of flavors, Italy is a dream destination! Gelato in Italian cities and towns is world class, creamy, and not as sweet as some commercial ice creams.

HIGH-QUALITY WINES

Who hasn’t tried a Barolo, Lambrusco or Chianti? Italian vineyards produce a plethora of high-quality wines. Tuscany is the most renowned destination for wine lovers, but other regions including Veneto and Piedmont also boast excellent wines. True oenophiles can visit local, family-run wineries or even spend a week on site.

Wine in Italy is generally inexpensive, so it’s easy to find authentic, high-quality Italian vintages even in regular supermarkets for an excellent price.

THE DIFFERENT COASTS

Italy is perfect for those who enjoy time by the sea, with its 7,500km long coast. Whether in Tuscany, on the Amalfi Coast or in Sicily, secluded bays, dreamy beaches and clear water are hallmarks of coastal Italy. Water sports are popular in Italy, so an active summer vacation there is easy to plan. What could be more fun than renting a kayak, paddleboat, SUP or boat and exploring hidden beaches, caves and islands?

THE CLIMATE

Italy’s climate varies greatly, with snow ski areas in the north and sunny islands in the south. Although the country is climatically diverse, the climate is typically Mediterranean from spring to autumn, making that time frame ideal for a visit.

THE IMPRESSIVE HISTORY

Italy is one of the most historic countries in the world, and its centuries of civilization are reflected in the architecture, art and countless historical sites. Even the smallest villages boast historically significant buildings and a rich cultural heritage. In fact, Italy holds the record for the most UNESCO heritage sites in the world—currently 58—of which 53 are cultural and five are natural sites.

FAVORITE PLACES TO VISIT…

From ancient ruins to world-famous museums, historic squares and imposing cathedrals, Italy is full of sights. It’s hard to make a list of the best because so many places are worth a visit.

Rome, Florence and Venice all hold at least one of the country’s most important sights. The Colosseum, the Uffizi Gallery and the Rialto Bridge are just a few of the highlights worth seeing in these major cities.

Rome was called the “Eternal City” by the ancient Romans because they believed that no matter what happened in the rest of the world, the city would always remain standing. Exploring the city center by foot surrounded by glorious monuments and colossal remains takes visitors back in time to the “glory that was Rome.”

The Colosseum is the most popular landmark of Rome, if not in all of Italy. When exploring the Colosseum, visitors easily imagine how the gladiators fought for their life in the arena, cheered by the crowd. In the Circus Maximus, travelers picture chariots crashing into each other in order to be first in the race, and in the Roman Forum they can visualize what the Roman public life was like.

Vatican City is an autonomous state surrounded by the beautiful ancient city of Rome. A visit there is a must, and can include attending holy mass led by the pope or time inside the Vatican museums full of breathtaking artworks, most famously, Michelangelo’s masterpiece fresco on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel.

No other open staircase in Rome is as famous as the Spanish Steps. The 136-step structure was created in 1723. At the top of the Spanish Steps sits the Trinita Dei Monti church. It is important to remember that the city of Rome wants to protect its monuments, and therefore it is forbidden to sit on the Spanish Steps. Disregarding this rule could result in a fine up to 400 euros.

FLORENCE

Florence is known as one of the most beautiful cities in the world and is often referred to as the art capital of Italy.

From Rome, it’s easy to take a rail train to Florence. Once there, a visit to the Piazza della Signoria is a must. This beautifully preserved square holds some of the city’s treasures including the Palazzo Vecchio, a replica of Michelangelo’s David and the fountain of Neptune. A walk through the picturesque streets of this renaissance city will lead to Piazza del Duomo, with the magnificent Duomo complex, including the cathedral, baptistery and campanile.

The Accademia Gallery is a treasure trove of works by Michelangelo, including the original statue of David, the pinnacle of Florentine Renaissance art.

For a memorable local experience while in Florence, book a tour through the city’s lively Mercato Central market, where participants select fresh ingredients with the guidance of a professional Italian chef. Next stop is the wine cellar of Da Pinocchio Restaurant for a lesson in preparing bruschetta, fresh pasta, a select choice of chicken or veal with Tuscan ham and sheep cheese, followed by a workshop on making a classic tiramisu. The grand finale is indulging in the freshly prepared exquisite meal.

VENICE

Built on a group of 118 small islands that are separated by canals and linked by over 400 bridges, it’s no wonder that Venice is known as the Floating City.

First-time visitors to Venice can maximize their time in the city with a full-day itinerary that ticks off all the most memorable attractions. Stroll across the Rialto Bridge and browse the lively Rialto fish market, then hop aboard a traditional gondola for a romantic cruise along the Grand Canal.

Venice’s Grand Canal is beautiful any time of day, but the early evening is a special time to marvel at this architectural wonder—when the sun reflects off the water it casts a glow that, coupled with the echo of the lapping waves, becomes something magical.

At 175 meters long and 82 meters wide, Saint Mark’s Square is a cultural center in Venice. The site on the Grand Canal shines majestically with numerous historic buildings, including Saint Mark’s Basilica, the city’s most important church. Saint Mark’s Square and its buildings are the highlights of any trip to Venice, and the church’s rooftop terrace is the premier place from which to view the entire city.

Travel Leaders can recommend a variety of vacations that visit locations all over Italy and Europe that include customized options like city tours with cooking classes emphasizing the country's culinary traditions, romantic candlelight dinners on private boats, and unique accommodations that deliver the authentic Italian experience. The agency can take care of every aspect of a trip, including airfare, transfers, transportation and hotels.

For more information on a trip to Italy, call Travel Leaders at 901.377.6600 or 901.853.6200. Offices at 2765 Wolfcreek Pkwy., Ste. 104, Memphis, and 155 N. Main St., Ste. 101A, Collierville are open by appointment only. Visit Travel Leaders on the web at GoTravelLeaders.com.

OLE MISS IS ROLLING OUT THE GREEN CARPET ONE LAST

TIME

LANDSCAPING CAMP: MAY 26-27, 2023

STORY BY LISA IVY | PHOTOS BY ROSIE VASSALLO

ANYONE

who has ever sought the solace of the historic oak, elm and magnolia trees on the Ole Miss campus won’t want to miss the opportunity to learn from the foremost guru of growing, as the last leaf falls on the Ole Miss Landscaping Camp.

Before he hangs up his trowel, Jeff McManus will chair his sixth and final camp this spring. McManus will soon retire after having served as Director of Landscaping for the University of Mississippi for the past 23 years. He is credited with helping the university gain numerous accolades, including “Most Beautiful Campus” honors from national publications including Newsweek, The Princeton Review and USA Today.

McManus has cultivated a campus full of flora and foliage recognized worldwide, as Ole Miss students hail from all 50 states and 87 countries. He credits Rosie Vassallo with the Oxford-Lafayette Economic Development Foundation for igniting the idea of a landscaping camp. “Rosie has a heart for Oxford and Ole Miss. Her idea years ago of creating a unique conference where people could learn surrounded by the great beauty and passion of the campus and city has been a great experience for me and all who’ve participated,” McManus says.

Along with McManus, this year’s expert panel includes Zach Adamz, owner and executive bonsai artist at Komorebi Gardens and Bonsai. A professor of international studies at Ole Miss who has studied bonsai art around the world for over a decade, his teachings focus on Northeast Asia, the Korean peninsula and the former Soviet Union. Adamz’s lecture and demo will highlight creation and horticulture of bonsai trees, the role of the container in composition, the incorporation of bonsai within landscape design, dispelling myths, elements of design and integrating function and aesthetic. Inspired by his childhood in the woodlands of the Appalachian Mountains of east Tennessee, Adamz’s subject matter focuses primarily on deciduous trees, adapting native species of the American South—Virginia pine, American hornbeam and red maples—into bonsai specimens.

a 1973 graduate of Millsaps College in Economics and Accounting, Blann Britton of Crawfordsville, AR, will teach “How To Grow Roses Without Losing Your Mind.” Britton operated a family farm until his dad’s passing in 1987. After retiring from farming in 2002, he became a financial advisor, but the proverbial dirt under his fingernails beckoned as he recalled his father’s love for the soothing rhythm of gardening. Unable to shake his fervor for flowers, he now raises over 600 hybrid tea, floribunda and grandiflora roses in his yard, as well as 100 Knockout and shrub roses.

Rounding out this impressive panel is Hearth and Garden Consultant Lauren Adamz, presenting on “Designer Kitchen Gardens.” She will discuss how a kitchen garden benefits health and lifestyle, aesthetics, basic principles of design and plant selection. This lecture will inspire campers to add or renovate their own kitchen gardens.

An exclusive tour aboard Oxford’s famous double decker bus will transport campers to the beautifully landscaped home of Diane and Dickie Scruggs, which was inspired by McManus.

McManus says, “Without the vision of Rosie, Ole Miss Chancellor Emeritus Robert C. Khayat and a

great group of people, the camp would have been impossible to achieve. I feel fortunate to have been a small part of each Landscape Camp.”

Space is limited for the camp. To register, contact Rosie Vassallo at 662.234.4651 or rosie@oxfordms. com.

Camp cost is $300. (Does not include hotel accommodations). The Inn at Ole Miss will offer the discounted rate of $149 per night for a Standard Accommodation or $249 for a One-Bedroom Suite. Rate deadline is Apr. 26th. A $10 per person fee will be applied by the inn for additional adults sharing accommodations.

The Ole Miss Landscaping Camp would not be possible without the support of presenting sponsors The University of Mississippi, Dabney Nursery, The Inn at Ole Miss, Grace Realty Group, Mississippi Federal Credit Union, At Home Memphis and Midsouth Magazine , Beau Ridge and Stages Mississippi Magazine . Hospitality sponsors include Argent Trust, B&B Concrete, mTrade, Stout’s Carpet, Action Pest Control, Shaw Ace Hardware, MaxxSouth, Oxford Eye Clinic & Optical and Michelle Mason Mortgage Advisor powered by First Commercial Bank.

TEXT BY DALE SKAGGS, DIRECTOR OF HORTICULTURE, DIXON GALLERY AND GARDENS | PHOTOS BY KRISTEN RAMBO

HOW TO BE A GOOD PLANT OWNER: NURTURING NEW PLANTS TO HELP THEM THRIVE

SPRING in Memphis means plant sales! A time-honored tradition in the Mid South is purchasing plants from fundraising sales put on by local nonprofits. You get expertly curated plant selections while supporting the local horticultural scene. Dixon Gallery & Gardens will hold its annual sale Apr. 14-15. The Memphis Botanic Garden and Lichterman Nature Center sales are that same weekend. Memphis Area Master Gardeners’ Spring Fling is Mar. 24-25. This year’s sales will be especially critical because of the Dec. 23 deep freeze that killed so many of our favorite plants. When I think about the thousands of plants that will be loaded in wagons and headed to new homes, I wonder what will be their fate. Will they be able to thrive in their new spots?

PLANTS h ave the ability to adapt and a natural drive to survive, but your goal is to have your plants thrive. After bringing the plants home, put them temporarily in a shaded location and check them daily to determine their water needs. Poking your finger into the pot or feeling the weight of a pot by picking it up is a simple way to see if water is needed. Waiting for a plant to send visual cues by the flagging or wilting of the foliage is probably not the best plan; if it goes too far on a hot day, you could lose the plant. Find a permanent spot as soon as possible and get these plants into the ground. Planting will make them more resilient to weather and rainfall; plants planted before it gets too hot have so many advantages. Plants in pots require regular care— anyone with a child understands that the word “nursery” means that extra attention is required!

We all know the adage: right plant, right place. The more organized gardener purchases plants with a spot in the garden in mind. Realistically, though, we all sometimes buy a plant on impulse based on a pretty photo or a salesperson touting its merits. This sort of empirical design approach presents real challenges, but it illustrates the adventurous spirit found in many gardeners. The buy-it-andfind-a-place approach does not always create the best gardens, but it can be great fun.

It’s critical to research the characteristics of a plant before you decide where to plant it. Resources on the web are easily accessible to find out the likely height, bloom time and color, as well as ideal growing conditions. Using the scientific or botanical name, which should be on the plant tag, is the only way to ensure that you are getting the correct information for your particular plant. Does it need a moist location or is it happy in dry, welldrained soil? What are the light requirements?

Most flowering plants need some sun to flower, but I always tell people that if the tag says full sun, translate that to morning sun. In Memphis, our late afternoon sun can literally bake a plant.

Once you’ve decided where it goes, prepare the site. Remember that the soil is critical to the growth of your new plant. Unless you are planting into an already prepared bed, work in compost or other decomposed organic material. Do not mix hardwood mulch into the soil; it takes forever to break down and ties up the nutrients until it does. Pine bark mulch or soil conditioner, which is finely ground pine bark, are okay to work into the soil. In fact, most nursery potting mixes contain pine bark, which is a local, renewable resource. Pine bark is slightly acidic, as are peat moss and leaf mold, and all can be excellent for plants, but acidify the soil. With most plants except azaleas, hollies and camellias, thoroughly mixing lime into the hole is a good idea. I like pelletized or prilled lime. Dig a generous-sized hole twice the size of the container to counteract heavy clay soils. Most plants resent being planted too deep, so place the crown or the top of the root ball an inch or two above the grade and use the soil with the organic material mixed in to backfill the hole. Gently slope the soil away from the plant.

Be sure to water the plant well after planting. Even if the container is wet because you have been taking such good care of it, water plants immediately after planting to settle the soil and eliminate air pockets that can cause dry roots and, often, the death of the plant.

Water is critical for the first summer with new plantings; even if a plant is touted as drought resistant it will need to establish in location first. Hand-watering with a hose is best as it forces you to interact with the new plants. Set-it-andforget-it automatic irrigation can work with close monitoring, but new plants will most likely need more water than the existing established plants in a garden.

Following this process will give your new plants their best chance for success. Now get out there, survey your garden and make your plan. I know you’ll create something beautiful and gratifying to enjoy for many years to come.

Orzo Salad

ORZO SALAD

Recipe by Sissy Eidt Browning

COLORFUL, DELICIOUS AND EASY TO MAKE— THE TRIFECTA WHEN IT COMES TO COOKING! AND AS A BONUS, THIS ORZO SALAD WILL FEED A CROWD. IT’S THE PERFECT ADDITION TO A CASUAL EASTER LUNCH OR ANY SPRING GATHERING WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS.

INGREDIENTS:

1 16-oz. package orzo pasta

½ cup sliced Kalamata olives

½ cup sliced sun-dried tomatoes

4 green onions, sliced

1 6-oz. carton crumbled feta cheese

1 package baby spinach

DRESSING:

½ cup red wine vinegar

2 tsp. sugar

3 tsp. Greek seasoning (we used Cavender’s)

2 tsp. juice from olives

2 tsp. dried basil

DIRECTIONS:

Cook and drain orzo following the directions on the package and combine with the next 4 salad ingredients.

To make the dressing combine the red wine vinegar with the sugar and heat in the microwave until the sugar is dissolved. Add the Greek seasoning, basil and olive juice. Mix dressing well, toss with the orzo mixture and add the spinach. Refrigerate for a couple of hours before serving.

Wellness Reboot 4

STORY MICHELLE JOHNS MA, LPC-MHSP (TEMP), NCC,

the belief that God created all things and that Jesus Christ was born, died and resurrected for me to have eternal life with God in heaven. This gives me hope in the most challenging of times.

Below are three steps you can take to develop your spiritual practice.

The quote above has long been a favorite of mine. It is taken from the first sentence in the first chapter of the book Tozer: Mystery of the Holy Spirit . My relationship with God began early in life and continues to be shaped by His unyielding grace and mercy, for which I am in awe and grateful beyond comprehension.

This month, we continue Wellness Reboot with Part 4, a focus on spirituality.

As I write with that focus, I cannot help but be excited about the timing of this article in the month Christians celebrate the resurrection of our savior, Jesus Christ.

Provided your spiritual practice is guided by the fruits of the Holy Spirit (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control) it can be prolific and inform a positively lived life amid suffering. Suffering is unavoidable and a natural part of life, however, a substantiated spiritual practice as part of your daily life can have profoundly positive effects on your cognitive and mental well-being. Spirituality has been shown to help people recovering from substance use disorder, depression, anxiety and numerous other life challenges.

As a Christian, my spiritual practice is based on

1. Assess y our spiritual practice. Reflect on the amount of time you spend with God, how you understand God, how you understand your purpose in life in relationship to God as your creator, how you influence others’ relationship with God by the way you treat yourself and others, the community with which you share faith and common beliefs.

2. Spen d time reading God’s word and praying with intention daily. Intentions can include to learn, to hear and to be heard. Devoting time is probably the biggest challenge to anyone’s spiritual practice. It is important to cultivate a personal relationship with God through the scriptures and praying. The personal messages I have received from God through scripture and prayer have been life shaping and saving.

3. Conn ect with a spiritual mentor who knows the word of God and exhibits a Christ-like love, one that is gentle, honest, patient, graceful and merciful. Knowledge of God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit comes through time spent reading the Bible, praying and discussing what you have read and experienced with those who share your faith and can help you discern truth. A Christ-like mentor will not use the word of God as a weapon, but will speak truth with love, grace and mercy.

"Deep inside every man there is a private sanctum where dwells the mysterious essence of his being. It is the man’s I am, a gift from the I AM who created him."

—A.W. Tozer

200 HR E-RTY, 500 HR RYT

Recently, I attended a Christian-based weeklong retreat. It was so good to dedicate time to my spiritual development. Two of my favorite affirmations from the week were:

• My pas t mistakes do not diminish my worth and value.

• I ha ve a God who knows me intimately, forgives me completely and loves me unconditionally. I share them in hopes you may find solace in claiming them for yourself. Wherever you are in your spiritual development, affirming words are important reminders and provide encouragement.

As we think and believe, so we are. As we are with ourselves, we are with others. It is important for us to promote a healthy spiritual relationship with God to garner internal well-being and reduce suffering for ourselves and others. A disciplined spiritual practice promotes resilience during times of difficulty and enhances our relationships. Throughout scripture God reminds us that empathy, compassion, gratitude, joy, inclusiveness, acceptance and equality are matters of the mind and heart most dear to Him, and the basis of quality of life.

During this season of Lent and Easter, I want to share a prayer and a poem I wrote when I was 15 (37 years ago).

Prayer:

“The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.”

Numbers 6:24-26

Poem:

Alone in my life and feeling so bored I pick up my Bible and speak with the Lord When no one else is around I have no fear I turn to my Bible and soon He is near As I flip the pages and look for a chapter to read He hears my prayers and tells me just what I need He speaks to me yet utters not a sound I skim the page and the perfect verse is found As I read and learn I see Him in vision and think how great

He’s always there for me to help set life straight Michelle Reynolds (Johns), 1985

APRIL

HOME FEATURE

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Elizabeth Malmo Interior Design

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Sélavie Photography Selaviephoto.com

DESIGN

Special ThanksCara Greenstein

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Parker Design Studio parkerdesignstudio.com

Annabella Charles Photography annabellacharles.com

TRAVEL

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Travel Leaders

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IN THE GARDEN

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Dale Skaggs of Dixon Gallery & Gardens Dixon.org

HEALTHY YOU

Special ThanksMichelle Johns mjohns@transformingwellness.com

Wellness MD wellnessmd.clinic

IN THE KITCHEN

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Sissy Eidt Browning

ON A GOOD NOTE

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