May 2023

26 | HOME FEATURE

East Memphis homeowners entrust RKA

Construction and Lindsey Black Interiors to master the transformation of their reimagined home for the their family of four.

72 | ENTERTAINING

Ginni Jones sets a spring tablescape inspired by the blooms at Dixon Gallery & Gardens and White Door Event's newest table linens.

MAY 2023 • VOL. 22 NO. 2

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

ATHOMEMMS.COM

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

SUBSCRIPTIONS

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

Whenwe think of Memphis in May, the first thing that comes to mind for most of us is the iconic festival that celebrates our great city during a perfect month for outdoor festivities. It is widely known that the weekend of the Beale Street Music Festival, aka “music fest,” is going to be a wet mess—in fact, it’s referred to by many as “mud fest.” The usual stormy weather hasn’t stopped its success, though.

Most attendees plan their weekend attire around their rain/mud boots and the beat goes on, but it doesn’t stop there! The World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest is a pork lover's dream and a weekend when dieting is forbidden. We celebrate so much in May in the Mid South! Although many of the events take place at our area’s great venues, so many more celebrations happen in our homes.

We hope we will still be cheering on the Grizz with watch parties. For those who need an excuse to eat tacos and drink margaritas, Cinco de Mayo has your back! Only a day later, it will be perfectly normal to indulge in some fried chicken and sip on mint juleps while watching the Run for the Roses. Mother’s Day, graduations or just a picnic in your own backyard—there are plenty of excuses to gather and enjoy great food with family and friends. Why not make every day a celebration?

Whether you prefer to entertain or to be entertained, Memphis and the Mid South in May has you covered. Enjoy!

— Margaret Monger, PUBLISHER

from crash pad to dream home

After many years of making the daily trek from their home in Crittenden County, AR, to the parochial school their children attended in East Memphis, a travel-weary mom and dad decided things needed to change. They decided to get a weekday place near the school, just to cut down on commuting time.

The couple bought a house off Shady Grove Road and quickly found they were falling in love with not only the convenient location, but also the neighborhood. Recalls the husband, “There are 15 or 16 kids in the 10 houses right around us and they’re all similar in age. And we really like this house, so we made the commitment that we were going to stay here. But we needed it to function the way we want to live.”

The homeowners brought in a team of experts, architect Colin McDoneil, general contractor RKA Construction, and designer Lindsey Black, to handle the transformation. Formerly home to two adults, the reimagined house needed to be fit for a family of four. It also had to have room for their wide circle of friends and family. “We want to be plugged in with our kids. I

know the kids’ homes that I wanted to go to when I was their age, and we want to have that place for our kids. Kids are in and out of here all the time. Our oldest son is in high school and we had a 24-person homecoming party here last fall,” the husband says. Mom and Dad enjoy entertaining too, often hosting events ranging from extended family holiday celebrations to neighborhood get-togethers.

The project reworked the home’s layout, changing the function of several spaces, but the new design flows so smoothly it seems as if it’s always had the current configuration. The dining room makes perfect sense in its location on the front of the house. Its rectangular shape is just right for the large table and ten surrounding chairs. “I told Lindsey we wanted as big a table as we could fit in here,” says the wife. The homeowners also asked for wallpaper in the space. Black obliged with a sophisticated gray-green grasscloth. “It’s a big room, but it has a lot of openings, so patterned wallpaper would have looked choppy,” she says. “The grasscloth provides interest and works well in a room that has a lot of openings and windows.”

twin,arched-top china cabinets frame an original painting by Melissa Payne Baker, while an oval-shaped bar cart repeats the curved lines. Black found the vintage piece years ago and patiently waited to place it with just the right clients. “I didn’t know if I was ever going to be able to part with it because it’s so special and unique!” she laughs.

The true star of the room, however, is the Visual Comfort light fixture above the dining table. The cluster of swirly glass spheres creates a cloud-like appearance that sets off the room and also adds visual interest to the home from the street view. Black says its size and shape made it the ideal choice. “When you’re dealing with eight-foot ceilings like this house has, you can’t have some of the grand fixtures. I went with this linear one that makes a big impact. It fills the large room but still accommodates the low ceiling well.”

Inspired by the dynamic decor they had seen at several local bars and restaurants, the couple knew they wanted dramatic wallpaper somewhere in their new home, and Black was thrilled to serve up a powder bath with a wild and whimsical pattern by British designer Emma J. Shipley. Black describes the paper as a longtime favorite that had been on her radar for a while, again, just waiting for the perfect placement.

The comfortable family room shows no sign of having originally been the home’s garage. Tasked with creating a spot where adults or teenagers would be equally comfortable spending time, Black came up with a design that’s elevated, comfortable and practically indestructible. Her biggest challenge came from the room’s shape; broad and a bit shallow, as is typical of a garage. Because of its width, the space didn’t lend itself to a traditional furniture placement. The designer’s clever solution came in the form of a pair of L-shaped sectional sofas. The arrangement minimized wasted space and kept clear pathways. Matching modern light fixtures hang over each seating area, and behind both sofas she placed a counter-height table and stools, a super spot to have a snack while watching a game or favorite show.

theroom’s rear wall is home to a built-in bar that holds the homeowner’s favorite spirits as well as a whiskey bottle painting commissioned from local artist Nate Renner. More original art from Sara Ella Cole and a trio of vibrant serpent prints bring interest and drama, as does a full-length photo of John Wayne. The designer knew she wanted a large black-and-white photo, and the homeowners suggested “The Duke,” as the classic star bears a striking resemblance to the husband’s grandfather.

Black’s design choices for the room ensure that it looks as good today as it did when the project was completed a year ago, even though the room sees constant use. “The fabrics are very high performance, the rug is stain treated and the bar tables are metal. They can be wiped clean easily,” she explains.

“We told Lindsey we wanted our bedroom to feel like a luxury hotel room,” says the husband. Black delivered beautifully; her creation is at once sumptuous and cozy.

A full wall of plush wool drapes looks impressive, and it also masks the room’s single, awkwardly placed window.

“Usually when house plans are drawn, the primary bedroom has two grand windows and really feels like an owners’ suite,” says Black. “When you just have one little window it kind of makes it feel more like a spare bedroom. So we thought we ought to make it super dramatic; give them that hotel feel with a whole wall of draperies. They can open the drapes to expose the window, but when they’re closed it just feels like a little cocoon. Cozy. And the wall color—it feels very comfortable but not dark. It’s moody.”

A custom-made bed upholstered in velvet adds to the ambiance. “We paid a lot of attention and were really careful in selecting the art for this house,” says Black, pointing out a large botanical monoprint by Celeste Pfau and four sketches by Rachel Payne. The designer floatmounted the figure drawings in simple frames, allowing the atmospheric wall color to function as a “mat.”

theinitial renovation plan involved only a few small changes to the kitchen, and the team was hesitant to suggest otherwise at first, as it was basically in good shape. As plans progressed it became clear that the walled-off kitchen wasn’t suited to the family’s needs, so a larger-scale redo got underway. Walls came out to open the space to the adjacent keeping room. Plenty of windows and crisp white walls give the room a light and airy feel. Black designed a simple door style for the cabinets and painted most of them in a warm neutral tone. Stained white oak on the island and two wall units gives the pieces the look of fine furniture. Cambria quartz counters and backsplash in a subtle pattern complete the kitchen’s updated traditional character. The project went on to revamp the rear entry and laundry room and add storage. Black made sure the new pantry had room for all the family’s small appliances, a favorite feature for the couple, who love both the easy access to often-used electrics and the clean, uncluttered look it allows on the kitchen counters.

“Little things mean a lot” may be an old adage, but it rings true with these homeowners. While they love everything about their remodeled place, it may be the small details that they appreciate the most. “The outlets hidden under the cabinets, the USB ports in certain places, the phone app that controls the thermostats, lights, the TVs, the gate. The pop-up downdraft vent so we didn’t have to have a hood over the island. The fact that we took out a whole wall to move the windows over three inches so they’d be centered. The thought Lindsey and her team put into the custom details of all the finishes, the furnishings and upholstery, the art and the accessories took the project from good to great,” says the husband.

It’s clear this couple made the right choice for their family when they decided to go “all in” on the in-town house they initially envisioned as a temporary fix to reduce commuting. Even though their East Memphis residence lacks the massive square footage of their Arkansas place, they could not be happier. “What we gave up in space we were able to gain in flexibility with the kids and friends. It’s a quality of life thing. You couldn’t drag us off this street!” admits the husband.

More than just location, though, they are delighted with the reimagining of their former “crash pad.” The wife sums it up with one brief thought: “It was a house when we moved in. Lindsey and her team turned it into a home.”

Andrea & Juan TURCIOS

SEPTEMBER 3, 2022 | MEMPHIS, TN

MOTHER OF THE BRIDE: BONNIE HAMPTON

PARENTS OF THE GROOM: MARCI WRIGHT AND JUAN TURCIOS

WEDDING & RECEPTION: PINK PALACE MUSEUM

PLANNER: BELLA BAXTER EVENTS

FLORIST: TCBNCO

PHOTOGRAPHER: MARY KATE STEELE

VIDEOGRAPHER: MEDINA EYE FILMS

CAKE: FROST BAKE SHOP

CATERING: KITCHEN GURU

ENTERTAINMENT: ABEDRA SERVICES

WEDDING DRESS: MAGGIE LOUISE BRIDAL

BRIDESMAID'S DRESSES: BELLA BRIDESMAIDS MEMPHIS

MAKEUP: ALEXIS PAYNE

HAIR: D. RACHELLE

STATIONERY: MRS. POST STATIONERY

CALLIGRAPHY: B.SARTAIN CREATIVE

TRANSPORATION: TENNESSEE LIMO

QUARTET: ROXANNE DAWES, STRING QUARTET OF THE SOUTH SALSA LESSON: VICTOR AND LUISANA

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

WHERE TO TRAVEL NEXT? GREECE WILL TAKE YOUR BREATH AWAY!

ifyou've

ever thought about taking a Greek vacation, there’s never been a better time to plan that epic journey.

Greece is most famous for its beautiful beaches, archaeological sites, delicious food, and dancing in the moonlight. This is the place where starry-eyed travelers watch the sun set into the Aegean Sea from the whitewashed cliffs of Santorini. But it’s also where adventurous travelers raft in sparkling rivers, snorkelers and scuba divers explore ancient shipwrecks, hikers dodge sheep on mountain paths, and kids realize that Rick Riordan wasn’t the first to dream up the Minotaur.

The best things to do in Greece aren’t just the biggies like visiting ancient monuments and swimming in cobalt water. The small moments are just as wonderful—whether it’s drinking local wine under a tree in a village, wandering a winding alley between whitewashed houses or biting into a vine-fresh tomato and a cube of salty feta cheese.

Interesting Fact: Did you know that Greece is made up of over 6,000 islands, each with its own unique charm? Popular island destinations include Crete, Rhodes, Corfu and Zakynthos. The Greek islands are close to each other. Getting from one to the next can be an easy 45-minute ferry ride.

Here are a few must-see destinations for any Grecian vacation: ATHENS

The capital of Greece, Athens, is one of the most important cultural sites in the world. The city is known for its ancient ruins, sunny beaches and mouth-watering cuisines. Made up of the mountainous mainland and hundreds of islands, the city is filled with historical sites, stunning landscapes and places of cultural importance.

Athens was the center of the ancient world. A visit to the ruins from the classic period, with helpful interpretation by a knowledgeable guide, is the centerpiece of any trip to Greece. Come to understand the importance of two of the city’s most iconic destinations, the Parthenon and the Acropolis, during a tour that includes both. The Parthenon dates to between 447 and 432 B.C. and was constructed of marble in honor of the goddess Athena. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Acropolis Museum houses important artifacts including the famous Parthenon Frieze and the Erechtheion Caryatids. Museum guides relate the background stories behind these architectural and artistic masterpieces of Greek antiquity.

New Museums in Athens:

The Goulandri Foundation is a hidden gem in an Athenian neighborhood called Pangrati. Basil and Elize Goulandri were art patrons who owned a huge collection of authentic works. For the first time, their collection, valued at $3 million, is on exhibit. It includes priceless pieces from some of the most famous Greek and international artists.

The brand-new National Gallery just reopened its doors after a big renovation project. It is devoted to Greek and European art from the 14th to the 20th century and includes both a permanent collection and rotating temporary exhibits.

CORFU ISLAND

Another charming Greek locale is Corfu Town. Heavily influenced by the Venetians, the French and the English, the village is an excellent starting point for exploring the island. Get lost in the small cobblestone lanes known as “kandounia,” visit the Museum of Asian Art, wander down the famed Liston promenade or saunter around the massive Spianada square. The entire town is loaded with vintage charm. The Old Town is highly reminiscent of Venice, Italy, with all the history of Greece. Beach lovers will want to spend time at Halikounas Beach, a lovely sandy beach that is one of the most beautiful coastal areas in Corfu. The beach is also a great place for scuba diving.

The stunning natural landscape, crystal-clear seas and excellent weather year round explain why Corfu is one of the most cosmopolitan Mediterranean destinations. It casts a powerful spell on its visitors.

Did you know that Corfu is famous for its olive trees? They are abundant on the island, numbering about 4.5 million, and many groves date back to ancient times. Also widely grown in Corfu are citrus fruits such as Merlin sweet oranges, lemons, tangerines and bergamot oranges that give off a marvelous scent. Another distinctive local flavor is “tsitsibira,” a kind of ginger beer which is exclusively produced in Corfu.

SANTORINI

The island of Santorini, as it stands today, was formed 3,500 years ago by a monstrous volcanic eruption. The eruption created a large hole in the middle of the island, which turned into a bay when the waters of the Aegean filled it in. The island remains the home of a small but flourishing wine industry, based on the indigenous Assyrtiko grape, with auxiliary cultivations of Aegean white varieties such as Athiri and Aidani and the varieties such as Mavrotragano and Mandilaria.

The power of the volcanic island of Santorini creates an energy that overwhelms the senses.

Exquisite luxury, amazing food and wine and its unforgettable sunsets are just the start of what this legendary Greek island in the Cyclades offers visitors. Santorini is also known for its infinity pools that flirt with the edge of cliffs. Seeing the Aegean Sea laid out in all its glory from one of these pools is an especially romantic experience. Due to its captivating beauty, the island has a growing reputation as a wedding destination for couples not only from Greece but from all over the world.

MYKONOS

Mykonos is one of the top tourist destinations in Europe. It belongs to the Cyclades group in the Aegean Sea and is famous for its cosmopolitan atmosphere, stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife.

The main town of Mykonos is picture perfect, with iconic whitewashed buildings, narrow streets and stunning sea views. It is also home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece, including Psarou, Super Paradise and Paradise Beach.

The island boasts a wonderful mountainous landscape, clear waters, long sandy beaches, churches, chapels and windmills. The Archaeological Museum of Mykonos was built in 1902 near the quay in Hora. It houses pottery from Delos, ranging from the prehistoric to the late Hellenistic Period (25th-first century BC), some grave items and jewelry from Rheneia. No trip to Mykonos is complete without a visit to the Church of Panagia Paraportiani, the most photographed monument on the island. Mykonos is dotted with windmills that have become a symbol of the island. The views of the town and sea from one of these charming structures is spectacular.

A cruise through the Greek Islands is a great way to see the country and all it has to offer. Tour the mainland and witness ancient history, travel to the islands for rich culture and picturesque, sun-drenched beaches of the once-powerful empire, experience lively Santorini from its quaint winding streets, and explore Mykonos and its famed whitewashed homes and churches. The best part is that you only have to unpack once to see all Greece has to offer on a cruise.

BEST TIME TO TRAVEL:

Greece has a Mediterranean climate, which means that winters are mild and rainy, while summers are warm and dry.

The high tourist season for Greece is in July and August, Aug. 1-20 are the busiest. Greek

vacations during those dates should be booked months in advance to insure availability. Crowds decrease, however, in the spring and fall. No matter when you travel to Greece, you will be welcomed with open arms as the people make visitors feel at home in their country.

Greece offers a unique and diverse travel experience that combines history, culture, nature and food with a full range of activities. It is a perfect destination for any type of traveler.

TO PLAN AND BOOK A GREEK VACATION, 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.

ENERGIZE & ENJOY IN CORINTH

Any short getaway is better when you find ways to energize yourself. You might be surprised at all the ways there are to energize and enjoy Corinth, MS.

First, go for a walk. Wandering the historic streets might be enough to recharge, but those who like a little more guidance will enjoy the 60 Sights in 60 Minutes walking tour. The route meanders around the streets and through the town’s history. Stop in at Trailhead Yard along the way, take a rest and see who’s the best cornhole player of your group.

Find out what a “slugburger” is. (It’s probably not what you think!) Trying new food and sampling the local cuisine can be fun and enlightening. Small towns often have great local restaurants that serve delicious, home-cooked meals, and Corinth is no exception. Visit the oldest drugstore in Mississippi to take care of your milkshake craving, and a side-street cake shop will provide goodies for later—after steaks and barbecue, that is. From historic tamales to eyebrow-raising burgers, whether authentic Thai or biscuits and gravy whets your appetite, you won’t go hungry here.

Corinth is a great place to make a friend. Strike up a conversation with locals upstairs at the coffee shop, at the counter at Abe’s, or while working on your selfie game at one of the town’s photo-worthy murals. Corinthians can provide insider tips on what to see and do, and hearing their stories can be an inspiring experience. Ask Mr. Kenneth how many marathons he’s run, or catch Romeo the bird (and his human) as they bike around downtown!

Check the calendar before you come to catch a special event, like the Coca Cola 10K on May 6, one of the largest foot races in the state. The award-winning Green Market pops up several times a year, and the Slugburger Festival, July 7-8, is worth braving the midsummer heat. When the holidays come around, the glittering downtown shopping area is flush with Christmas spirit. Yearround local favorite attractions include the Big Chicken, the Corinth Contraband Camp with its interactive video tour, the Lake Hill Motorcycle Museum, and the Corinth Civil War Interpretive Center. Take in a show at Corinth Theatre Arts, the oldest community theater in the state, catch an event at the Crossroads Arena, home of Mississippi’s largest arena floor, or enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the historic Corinth Coliseum. Any time of year, Corinth is full of ways to recharge.

Corinth is surrounded by a variety of locales sure to interest history and nature lovers. A day trip to Shiloh National Park, Tishomingo State Park, Pickwick Lake or the Tennessee River is a must do while in the area.

A shopping excursion in Corinth promises the best in food, fashion, art, curiosities, antiques— the list could go on and on. Discovering local businesses can be a fun and uplifting experience, and you’re sure to find new treasures while you support the city’s home-grown merchants. Don’t miss Sanctuary Antiques, the Open Market or all the shops in SoCo. If they don’t have it, they’ll know where to find it!

After an action-packed day, don't forget to take time to relax and unwind. Walk the streets, get caught by a train, watch a sunset, eat and drink, and forget the schedule. Once you’re in Corinth, all you’ll want to do is enjoy.

Snappy Sync

Soiree & Firefly Tours

EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC OF SYNCHRONOUS “SNAPPY SYNC” FIREFLIES ALONG THE HISTORIC NATCHEZ TRACE PARKWAY.

The Snappy Sync Soiree and Firefly Tours is an annual event that offers guests the opportunity to see Mississippi’s incredible synchronous fireflies (“Snappy Syncs”) during the peak of their yearly display along the historic Natchez Trace Parkway. A preview party will be held on May 18 followed by three nights of ticketed tours led by Mississippi Master Naturalists, welcoming hundreds of visitors to the area. A nighttime photography workshop on May 18 will also be part of the event. Throughout the four-day celebration, the beautIful display of thousands of twinkling fireflies flashing together among the pines and hardwoods will inspire awe for the simple wonders Mother Nature provides every day.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

Set for Thurs., May 18, the Snappy Sync Soiree is the preview party before the three nights of ticketed tours. Guests will enjoy light refreshments, music and guided firefly viewing on the Natchez Trace Parkway. An evening immersed in the beauty of Mississippi’s synchronous fireflies will be a true celebration of the start of summer.

Mississippi Master Naturalist volunteers will lead Snappy Sync Firefly Tours May 19-21. Groups of 15 guests will embark on the 20-minute tours beginning on the boardwalk of the Waller Craft Center in Ridgeland, then circle the Old Trace/Brashear’s Stand historic site off the Natchez Trace Parkway. Tours will begin at 8 p.m. and conclude at 10 p.m. (9:40 p.m. on Sunday). Tour guides will help visitors spot Snappy Sync fireflies, provide information about how to identify various other species of fireflies, and answer questions. Tickets are $8 per person—an affordable price to witness one of Mississippi’s best natural wonders.

During the Nighttime Photography Workshop on May 18, a professional nature photographer will provide a hands-on workshop for a group of 10-20 participants interested in learning to photograph fireflies and other nighttime creatures. Participants will meet in the field and spend time experimenting with techniques and equipment to develop their skills.

This is the fourth year of firefly tours at the Waller Craft Center and the event continues to grow. Tickets have sold out for the past three years, and more than 1,000 guests from across Mississippi and surrounding states have experienced the magic of Snappy Syncs.

Long-time firefly enthusiast and Mississippi Master Naturalist Claire Graves is the mastermind behind the annual firefly celebration. After observing Snappy Syncs for a few seasons behind the Waller Craft Center, she wanted to find a way to share this special local treasure with more people. Through a partnership with the National Park Service, the Waller Craft Center, and the Mississippi Master Naturalist program, Graves organized the first tours in May 2020. Each year, she and other Master Naturalists lead visitors through the firefly-filled darkness, giving them a front-row seat to witness the wonder of thousands of tiny glowing creatures calling out to one another in the night.

spring staples

AT SISSY'S LOG CABIN

Brighter days, April showers, and all the May flowers, Spring is here. As you transition into these warmer months and send in your RSVPs for upcoming garden parties, graduations, and outdoor weddings, you’re probably considering the many ways you can bring new life to your favorite outfits. Sissy’s Log Cabin has everything you need to take your already classic springtime fashion to the next level.

Flowers that last forever

Some say April showers bring May flowers, but at Sissy’s Log Cabin, we believe flowers make beautiful pieces of timeless jewelry. From pendants and earrings, to rings and bracelets, floral-inspired jewelry is a customer favorite that can be incorporated into your spring collection for formal events or casual gatherings.

Vibrant colors for warmer days

Among the must-have styles for your spring social calendar are bold rings that make an unforgettable statement. Mix precious gemstones and luxurious metals with bright colors and bold prints, guaranteeing a perfect look for all of your special spring occasions.

A world of color

The warmer months also present the perfect opportunity to enhance any on-the-go outfit. Don a sleek ponytail or simple up-do with a pair of stylish hoops and a diamond necklace. Whether you’re shopping for a gift, a special occasion, or to add something new to your wardrobe, the jewelry experts at Sissy’s Log Cabin are always delighted to help. Our annual May Sale is happening now through May 31 and customers can save up to 65 percent on some of our most exquisite pieces. With in-house financing and layaway options available, you can get the perfect look at the best price. Visit the Memphis location in the Laurelwood Shopping Center or shop online at SissysLogCabin.com.

Laurelwood Shopping Center

404 S. Grove Park Rd, Memphis, TN 38117 (901) 834-0067

sissyslogcabin.com

DESIGN BY GINNI JONES | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANNABELLA CHARLES

the table

WHITE DOOR EVENTS APPLE ELIF LINEN | WHITE HEMSTICH NAPKINS | WHITE DINA LAMP WITH WOVEN SHADE NATURAL ELM CHAIRS| ESTELLE COLORED GLASS BLUE WINE GLASSES | SIR MADAM GREEN TULIP GLASSES

CRATE & BARREL MERCER DINNERWARE | WILLIAMS SONOMA TORTOISE NAPKIN RINGS

With spring in full swing, it seemed like a tablescape was long over due! This month's table was inspired by the blooms currently thriving at the Dixon Gallery & Gardens, as well as White Door Events newest table linens! Available in apple green, sky blue and dusty rose, White Door's newest Elif table cloth was such an easy pick for the table.

After choosing the linen, it was time to add texture to the table. Their new Dina lampshades are the cutest woven touch to any table! I love the texture they add! Another textural element was their new Elm chairs in a lovely natural finish. The curves on these chairs are so unique for any event.

And finally to top off the table, I paired simple white ceramic dishes with blue Estelle Colored Glass wine glasses and pale green Sir Madam tulip glasses. White hemstich napkins were held with a tortoise shell ring to add additional contrast to a lighter color palette.

the spread

The Dixon Gallery & Gardens has such great places for picnics! Picking out the spread for the table was an easy task. I headed to Whole Foods to grab an assortment of cheeses, fruit, breads and more. There were so many guests having picnics of their own, it was the perfect day for such a simple yet fun meal.

WHITE DOOR EVENTS SKY ELIF LINEN | ESTELLE COLORED GLASS CAKE STAND J LOWERY CANE MINI MAX | FRENCH BLUE SAUVIGNON BLANC

WHITE DOOR EVENTS WHITE EZIO CHAIRS | LATTICE GARDEN STOOL | WHITE DINA LAMP WITH WOVEN SHADE | LILYPAD BUTTONS PILLOW | BLUSH CHAVA PILLOW | ESTELLE COLORED GLASS PEACH WINE GLASSES

BoilCrawfishBread

RECIPE AND PHOTO COURTESY OF MICHAEL EIDT, TUPELO, MS.

BOIL BREAD

WITH CRAWFISH BOIL SEASON COMING TO AN END, HERE IS A SIMPLE RECIPE THAT FREEZES WELL. MAY IT SUSTAIN YOU UNTIL THOSE GLORIOUS MUD BUGS RETURN NEXT SPRING. LAISSEZ LES BONS TEMPS ROULER!

INGREDIENTS:

1 10-12 oz. package of “the trinity,” frozen onions, bell peppers and celery, thawed, with excess liquid squeezed out

4 Tbsp. butter, softened

1 tsp. chopped garlic

1 cup sliced mushrooms leftover from the boil

1 bunch green onions, sliced

1 cup diced sausage leftover from the boil

1 package of cream cheese, softened

½ cup shredded jack cheese

¼ cup parmesan cheese

½ cup cheddar cheese

¼ cup Blue Plate or Duke's mayonnaise

1 Tbsp. creole mustard

1 large loaf of good French bread, sliced open lengthwise optional: leftover corn may be added

DIRECTIONS:

Mix together and spread on openface French bread. May freeze at this point to enjoy later or bake at 350˚ until hot and bubbly. ENJOY!

Celebrating Parents

STORY MICHELLE JOHNS MA, LPC-MHSP (TEMP), NCC, 200 HR E-RTY, 500 HR RYT

PARENTING IS ONE OF LIFE’S MOST REWARDING AND CHALLENGING ROLES.

Research by the Fuller Institute reveals that parents have the greatest influence in a person’s life. The relationship a child has with his or her parents, regardless of its quality, affects that child’s lifetime of internal and external relationships.

Most people start the parenting journey with the best of intentions. They work to keep their children safe, meet all their needs, protect them from harmful predators, and give them a similar or better life than they had growing up.

From the moment babies are born, parents begin preparing them for independent life. It starts with breathing on their own and continues throughout every stage of development. Children are adults for many more years than they are children dependent upon parents in life. If mom and dad do their job well, they have a better opportunity to grow with their children and not apart from them.

How people raise their children is influenced by how they were parented. They work to change things they didn’t like about their childhood and do more of the things they enjoyed.

The way adults were brought up impacts every relationship in life. If children have a good relationship with their parents, they are better equipped to handle pressure from peers and society. No matter what stage of development an adult is in with their children, there is always an opportunity to improve connections.

Realizing that people spend more years as adults with their parents and children than as children with parents or parents with children, should make it worth the time and effort to know a family’s history of legacy burdens and gifts. It is most important to become free of hurts and bring forth more gifts. Without evaluation of a person’s own history, he or she is likely to pass down a cycle that would be better broken.

Children are born with more neurons in their brain than there are stars in the sky. The ability to learn is limitless at birth and shaped by nurture from parents and the environment in which a child develops. In addition to physical health and safety, parents should pay attention to their children’s social, emotional, behavioral and cognitive skill development. They should also focus on their own well being as they care for their family. Physically, mentally and emotionally healthy parents raise healthy children and enjoy long-term joyful relationships with them.

Physical health and safety includes caring for children in a way that minimizes the likelihood of harm and encourages their ability to survive and flourish in challenging situations, while preventing all forms of mistreatment. Helping children develop emotional, behavioral, social and cognitive skills gives them the ability to safely express their feelings and emotions, exposure to broad life experiences, and education without emotional or verbal abuse.

and encouragement, and by sharing the wonder of life in everyday moments. Three ways to cultivate a relationship of growth with children are:

1. Und erstanding your own history with your parents and their parents. Reflecting on the moments in life that continue to stand out in your memory. Noting your physical, emotional and cognitive responses to standout moments and exploring them with curiosity and compassion. Writing your story can be therapeutic and helpful.

2. Makin g a way for children to create their own life with encouragement, excitement, compassion and shared curiosity. Children are a product of two people with life experiences that make their whole being. Parents owe it to them to allow them to make mistakes, learn their own life lessons, and support them on their journey.

3. Raisin g children to let them go! They have the right to be self-determined individuals apart from their parents.

All of this to say, parents should celebrate! Celebrate having been born and given life. Celebrate the opportunity to create joy with family. Celebrate knowing your story, making peace with imperfection and finding acceptance. Celebrate the story you write each and every day because of the chance God gives to renew, restore and resurrect.

Parents shape the world’s future by providing nurturing love with compassion

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Special ThanksFoster Village Memphis Fostervillagememphis.org

FOSTER VILLAGE MEMPHIS

Since Foster Village Memphis was founded in 2020, Shelby County’s Department of Children’s Services has consistently had custody of around 1,200 children. Typically, when children come into custody of the state, they are placed with a foster or kinship family until a parent can regain custody.

Foster Village Memphis comes alongside these children and families to create community beyond the system and show them that they are not alone. Fostering can be an isolating experience and unfortunately, many families foster for less than a year, citing burnout and lack of support as the reasons they stop. FVM provides holistic support to foster families by meeting needs that the system does not meet. It aims to reduce burnout and bridge the gap between those who care about vulnerable children and those who are called to foster.

FVM's Welcome Pack program serves to bring families into the Village through the provision of tangible necessities and comfort items in the first few days of a new placement. Once a request is made, volunteers help assemble and deliver packs within 24 hours. The program runs completely on private financial donations and purchases from the organization’s Amazon Wishlist.

Another aspect of the Foster Village Memphis mission is to connect families to resources throughout the community, to the community at large, and to other like-minded families. Through family gatherings, parents’ night out events, monthly caregiver gatherings, and informal playground play dates, FVM seeks to guide people toward each other during an otherwise isolating time.

May is Foster Care Awareness Month, the perfect time to follow FVM on social media, commit to donate monthly to support its work, or connect with a foster family in your own village. Visit fostervillagememphis.org to see all the ways to support the organization. There are even opportunities to get your own kids involved this summer!

TEXT AND PHOTOS COURTESY OF SASHA HOSICK, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR