December 2016

Our Holiday Issue

HOME FEATURE:

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CONTENTS DECEMBER 2016

27 HOME:

Oxford, MS.

Designer Betsey Mosby helps create a cozy Christmas home in

38 DESIGN: Greg Campbell of the Garden District shares expert insight on

creating the festive and joyful holiday home.

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CONTENTS DECEMBER 2016

38 F O R YO U 18

healthy you Holiday Harmony

98

on a good note Boys and Girls Club Bash

HOME & DESIGN 22 at home with Gina Neely 27 home feature Christmas Home in Oxford 38 design A House Full of Holiday Joy, Garden District 44 style marketplace Holiday Decor 48 home trends Amy Howard at Home

T R AV E L & C U L T U R E 56 getaway The Highlands, Asheville, NC 62 travel The Florida Key for families 69 social pages Mid South Happenings 80 arts Dolly Parton & Christmas of Many Colors

62

FOOD & DRINK IN EVERY ISSUE 12 | PUBLISHER'S NOTE 97 | SOURCES 8 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • December 2016

84 entertaining New Year's Eve Cocktail Party 90 dining out Erling Jensens 93 happy hour Holiday Cheers 94 in the kitchen Cheesy Sausage & Egg Casserole

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DECEMBER 2016 • VOL. 15 NO. 9 PUBLISHER / EDITORIAL DIRECTOR MARGARET MONGER | mmonger@athomemms.com

ART DIRECTOR ANNA LEPPERT | aleppert@athomemms.com

EDITORIAL AND PRODUCTION MANAGER 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 MEGAN EIDT | meidt@gmail.com BRITTANY MCDONALD | brmcdonald45@gmail.com CINDY SEMMES | c.semmes@aol.com

BUSINESS DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS TRIP MONGER | tmonger@athomemms.com

MARKETING AND CIRCULATION HARRIET W. DEATON | hdeaton@athomemms.com

HOW TO REACH US 320 South Walnut Bend, Suite 11 | Cordova, TN 38018 TOLL FREE 877.684.4155 | FAX 866.354.4886 WEBSITE: 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: 320 South Walnut Bend, Suite 11, Cordova, TN 38018.

SUBSCRIPTIONS Call 877.684.4155 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, 320 South Walnut Bend, Suite 11, Cordova, TN 38018. 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, 320 South Walnut Bend, Suite 11, Cordova, TN 38018 or to tmonger@athomemms.com.

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA!

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publisher’s note I can’t believe we are in the final production days of the last issue of 2016.

This year has flown by with so many changes.

We are no longer tuition payers; our youngest graduated college and he will be adding a new daughter-in-law to our family next June. We have a new Lab puppy, Cooper, a new German Shepherd granddog, Gryphon, and a new president, Donald.

In a few days our family will grow by one when my mother marries William, one of the sweetest men I have ever met. We are so excited for their future. I have several new gray hairs, mainly from the aforementioned Lab puppy, a few new pounds from the celebrations, and a few new wrinkles (aka laugh lines) from so much love, laughter and great times with family and friends.

Wishing you a peaceful and joyful holiday season. Merry Christmas, happy holidays and blessings to you all.

Publisher

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healthy you

HOLIDAY HARMONY

Sometimes the holidays can seem like a bag of mixed nuts! So much joy, anxiety, frustration, fun, love, family and friends. Following are some tips to help you experience more harmony and less harm during the season.

Text by Michelle Johns

Practice self-care through meditation or quiet time.

Wake 15 to 30 minutes earlier than usual to give yourself the gift of quiet time.

• Set a timer.

• Sit quietly or listen to quiet, meditative music.

• Sit comfortably.

• Close your eyes.

• Focus on your breath; notice the inhales and the exhales. As thoughts creep into your mind, acknowledge them and return your attention to your breath until you hear the timer.

• As your time comes to a close, make a commitment to face the day and all that it brings with peace. If your peace is disrupted at any time during the day, acknowledge the moment, let it go and recommit.

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Take three deep breaths before every meeting with people.

Clear your mind, let go of expectations, bring your best to the time you have with the people you encounter.

• Give the gift of making the time with others about them.

• Ask questions about their family, their life, their interests, their home, etc.

• Try not to respond with a comparison of your life. Respond with terms of encouragement.

When someone is facing a challenge or struggle, try to respond with questions rather than advice. Be interested in what they are doing to live their best life and show respect for the ways they think are best to face their challenges.

Treat others as if you think they are more important than you.

Focus on the positives.

I struggle at times large gatherings, but I have come to realize that I can learn from each person I encounter. Some teach me how to love better through their gracious and loving ways; some teach me what not to do and how not to act; some inspire me with their perseverance through health issues and struggles; some teach me compassion and empathy. Everyone in the room brings value to my life.

I hope these tips help you to enjoy a wonderful holiday season!

Merry Christmas!

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at home with

At Home With Gina Neely Text by Janna Herbison | Photography by Anna Leppert

Give us a snapshot of your life these days.

Things are great, and busy! I’ve gone through a lot of changes in recent years, but through my faith and a lot of reflecting, I have rediscovered myself…and recharged my spirit. I finally found the courage to take control of my life and make some positive changes. I’m in a very good place now, and excited about the next chapter!

I am also living in an amazing condo in the heart of Downtown Memphis, and I love it! The Downtown area has grown so much in recent years, and I am proud to now be a part of that.

You have embraced a healthier lifestyle recently. What are some of the positive results you’ve experienced?

It all started through the George Foreman brand—they challenged me as a spokesperson with a goal of losing 25 pounds in 12 weeks. That really opened the door for me. Once I committed to it, I began losing weight and feeling a lot better, both on the outside and the inside.

For years, as co-owner of a Southern fare restaurant, I didn’t always make the healthiest choices when it came to cooking for family or myself. I started making a few small changes that delivered big results. I also began exercising regularly. It was as if the sun started shining brighter, which helped me really take things in and notice the positive blessings in my life. I lost weight, and I also began to rid myself of negative thoughts. I even started a personal blog, which has now made a big impact on my life. I was about to turn 50 and just wanted to be happy and be my best self!

What type of work are you currently doing?

I'm pleased with everything I've done and hopefully I’ve helped others. I am currently moving behind the camera to submit treatments for different networks as well as working on my book, Rediscover Your Cha-Cha. My goal is to submit it as a series platform to share with all women.

I am also traveling and speaking around the country, along with various appearances on television, radio and podcasts. I was recently featured in an episode of Where Are They Now on Oprah’s OWN network and did a Thanksgiving segment last month as a representative for Wal Mart on Harry Connick, Jr.’s new syndicated television show called Harry. I helped launch a new cooking segment as guest judge on The Real, and I have an article out this month in Dr. Oz’s magazine. Another special visit: I spoke at an event in Buffalo, NY, to share my journey with other women on how to collectively move forward by supporting one another.

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What were some of the pros and cons associated with the notoriety from your show on the Food Network? How did it help prepare you for launching a new chapter in your life?

When Food Network approached us, we thought it would be a good outlet for marketing our brand and products. I thought the show might get a few episodes, maybe go on for a year at the most. I never dreamed it would have the success it did! I was anxious when we first started shooting, and had to get used to becoming a public figure and having my family in the spotlight. Our producer was a great resource, though. He really helped put it all in perspective. I also had to lean on the support of family and friends, along with my pastor, and learn how to strike a balance between being a mom and having a national spotlight. The show aired for 13 seasons, and was the highest rated show in Food Network history for its “In the Kitchen” block. I was proud of that, but also felt it was, and is, so important to maintain humility when you are blessed, and use those blessings for good.

What's next for you?

The show and the spotlight, I think, gave me the confidence and courage to try new ventures and finally feel comfortable in front of the camera and the microphone. I don’t want to do just any work…I want to make sure my upcoming projects involve positive messaging. There is enough negativity out there today. I started a Facebook page for others to share their stories and I’ve received some very inspirational messages of hope.

I am really excited about what the future holds. I want to continue to share my story and message: do what you love and love what you do! Surround yourself with positive people. The right support, attitude and belief system can help overcome any challenge. I feel like it was a blessing for Gina Neely to have the name for what I need to do next. I look forward to what lies ahead!

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home feature

An Oxford Home Decorated for the Holidays

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home feature

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home feature

I

If you ask Jackson, MS, interior decorator Betsey Mosby about her design philosophy, she’ll likely tell you creates “environments, not just rooms, that foster clients and friends to live fabulously and find havens in their homes.” So when it comes time to decorate for the holidays, it’s no surprise that she recommends taking a whole-house approach to the task. In her own home, she says, “I even have a miniature tree for my daughter’s room and mistletoe for our hallways!” And when her client, Betsy Smith, wanted to deck the halls of the traditionally styled and contemporarily appointed home she shares with her husband Andrew and their three young children, Mosby shared her decorating wisdom as a guide.

From the moment guests approach your home, Mosby says, they should feel like they’re getting ready for a special occasion. “I recommend lots of strands of lighting and, of course, real greenery when helping my clients elevate their decor from the outside in.”

Helping bring this vision to life at the Smiths’ white-brick entry, David Naron from Oxford Floral surrounded the glass-paneled wood door with abundant greenery, even incorporating fruit into the garlands for an extra touch of festive flair.

While decorating the outside of your home should be a fairly simple task, there are a few tricks to appointing its interior that will ensure a classy, timeless outcome. First, says Mosby, “I love to walk into a home that’s in the Christmas spirit, and recommend using real greenery throughout—nothing beats the smell of a real tree or real garland.” Mosby suggests paperwhites as the perfect holiday flora: “I get so excited when they start blooming each year,” she says. Not only are they an elegant, neutral, go-witheverything option, “Nothing makes your home smell better!” she enthuses.

Decorating around a home’s existing design is another key to seasonal success. “While I don’t really typically decorate via a theme, holiday decoration needs to fit with the style of your home,” Mosby exhorts. “I think complementing the color scheme of your home is important so that the decor flows rather than stands out. More neutral homes can take smaller pops of color and could focus more on greenery and holiday metallics like gold and silver. Homes with more color can decorate with brighter ribbons and the like. But I think every home should have some red incorporated in the decorations, whether it be stockings or berries or packages. Nothing says Christmas like those fun pops!”

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Fortunately for the Smith family, their home’s decor included plenty of pops to work around. Mauve upholstery and throw pillows with bright pink accents easily lent themselves to tree ornaments in all colors of the rainbow. The family’s holiday trimmings also repeat the animal motifs found throughout the house in pieces like giraffe-inspired armchairs and zebra-print dining chairs and ottomans. Oversized golden reindeer adorned with ribbons occupy a place of pride on the dining room buffet and clustered mini reindeers sit before the fireplace. Hand-blown glass fish, birds and bunnies top the mantel; and, perhaps most charmingly, stuffed animals decorate smaller trees in the children’s play areas.

Mosby advocates the art of repetition, duplicating decoration themes on a home’s exterior and interior. With that idea in mind, she suggests incorporating lights everywhere, “to make things feel light and airy.” The Smith family took a decidedly playful approach to this suggestion, transforming an existing lamp in one of the children’s rooms into a makeshift mini tree, adding a magical glow to the silver-and-pink themed trimmings and surrounding decor.

When it comes to placement of holiday decorations, Mosby believes there’s strength in numbers. “I love grouping things for impact,” she says. “If you have a special collection of Santas, angels or nativities that you’ve been working on for years, display them together somewhere for the most bang.” She clustered the Smith family’s extensive collection of tiny Christmas trees in several areas including mantels on both of the home’s fireplaces, desks, coffee and end tables.

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home feature Mosby also suggests a less obvious, but equally special way to display treasured Christmas collections: setting a festive table display.

“I’ve collected vintage Christmas china for years that we love to use during the holidays,” she says. “I mix it in with Annieglass, my grandmother’s linens and silver to make a beautiful table with Christmas charm.” The Smith family’s holiday dining table highlights their good china and silver with perfect white floral arrangements and sparkling napkin rings. Betsy Smith explains that each year, they host lunch on Christmas day, and that event is one of the highlights of the entire season. “We eat a wonderful lunch that we save as a special treat for this time of year,” she says. “Every menu item stays exactly the same as it has for years and years and we love that tradition. Oddly enough, Andrew and I grew up eating nearly the exact same Christmas meal so it is fitting that we continue to serve that meal to our family and friends.”

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home feature

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home feature Memories are a big part of the Smith family Christmas decorating, as well. “Without a doubt, my most meaningful ‘decoration’ would be the Christmas photo album I’ve added to each year since our oldest child was born,” says Betsy Smith. “It includes a few of our favorite Christmas pictures from each year along with a short narrative about special Christmas memories, traditions, insights into each child’s personality or funny things they have said or done regarding Christmas that particular year.”

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home feature

And above all, says Mosby, gathering with family and reflecting on what brings you joy is what holiday decorating should really be about. “I think the most important thing is to create meaningful traditions with your family that you look forward to enjoying each year,” she says. “Whether it’s special trees in children’s rooms, a life-size dancing Santa at your front door (like my in-laws have) or a collection of reindeer mugs you bring out only for the holidays, it’s important to have traditions and decor that you look forward to using each year.”

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design design

House Full

AHoliday Joy of

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Text by Ruthie George | Photos by Anna Leppert

design It’s the time of year when Mid Southerners are busy decorating their homes and workplaces for the holidays. While everyone enjoys seeing beautiful seasonal decor, the task of dressing up a home can seem daunting. This month, At Home turns to Greg Campbell of The Garden District for expert insight on making your surroundings extra joyful for the most festive season of all.

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Photo by Michael Boatman

design

At Home Memphis and Mid-South: What are the newest trends in decorating a home for the holidays?

Greg Campbell: I am seeing lots of the palest aqua with platinum this season. Retro and earth-conscious decor as well. I do have to admit that in the end, the largest demand is for classic reds, green, gold and silver.

AHMMS: What makes the difference between overdone decorations and elegant embellishments that complete a room?

GC: Knowing when to stop. Two large vases full of ilex berry on a mantel can make more of a statement than a room full of holiday figurines, sparkle encrusted set-arounds and collectible Santas. That being said, I believe the areas in our home where we live should be filled with items a family has collected over the years, sparkles or not.

AHMMS: What is the best way to decorate a small space vs. a large area?

GC: For the small space choose one or two areas for impact; just because a space is small does not mean it can’t carry

something dramatic. The large space is all about scale. If you have a substantial fireplace in a large room, consider a thick, beefy garland of something like bay, laurel and magnolia foliage for the mantel with a coordinating wreath hung above.

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AHMMS: How can small details impact the room?

GC: Tabletop holiday decor is a

great way to add holiday cheer to a room, but keep it edited.

AHMMS: Is the entryway important in holiday decorating?

GC: An entry is one of the most

important areas for holiday decor.

The front door and foyer are the first things a visitor sees approaching your home, so do them up!

AHMMS: What is the best way to find quality decorations?

GC: Check with your local florists and garden centers for fresh garlands and wreaths. Touch the greenery to make sure it is soft and pliable.

Ribbon and other decor can be challenging to order online because it is difficult to gauge quality through a photo. Seeing and touching are very helpful in determining the right product for your needs.

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design

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AHMMS: What is the most creative way to decorate a functional table or mantel?

GC: I love large rectangular plate-glass containers filled with polished rocks and blooming amaryllis bulbs, with no soil—a clean look of clean glass, washed bulbs with roots and the spectacular blossoms. This look is great on either a long table or mantel.

AHMMS: What's new in decorating Christmas trees GC: The crazy assortment of LED lights now available. The light color, blinking sequence, etc. can now be changed by remote control or even your smart phone. Considering the advancements in the lighting industry these past years I can only imagine what will be available in the next five years.

AHMMS: What would be the best

type of scent to include in holiday decorations?

GC: My new favorite for the season

is Palais Tokyo by Astier de Villate.

This beautiful scent is created using essences of cedar, juniper, oak moss and cashemeran, a smoky wood fragrance that I look forward to enjoying all winter.

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styleMARKETPLACE

Decking the Halls this Holiday Season!

Fa La La Reindeer Cheese Plate Bella Vita, $25 Collierville, TN 901.850.0892

Winter Scene Music TV Box Millstone Nursery, $78-158 Germantown, TN 901.730.1183

Nest Pine Grande Candle & Diffuser The Garden District, $225, $42 Memphis, TN 901.761.3277

Assorted Holiday Ornaments Bella Vita, prices vary Collierville, TN 901.850.0892 44 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • December 2016

Fresh Cut Holly & Juniper Wreath Restoration Hardware, $89-139 www.restorationhardware.com

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home hometrends trends

Amy Howard at Home Text by Ginni Jones Photos courtesy of Amy Howard at Home

Whether it's simply an unloved lamp or a dated sofa, the Amy Howard at Home line has over 80 products to help transform your home furnishings without spending your life savings. At Home Memphis & Mid South had the opportunity to sit down with Amy Howard, creator of Amy Howard at Home, and chat about the current trends in restoring and reusing furniture.

At Home Memphis & Mid South: What inspired you to start

Amy Howard at Home?

Amy Howard: I would always find myself asking people where they buy their furniture. They would answer by saying tag sales, garage sales, estate sales, etc. Right then, I knew that I could take the processes that I had developed over 25 years in furniture manufacturing, patent them and teach people how to do them themselves. We throw away 28 million pieces of furniture each year, so why not have a product that can allow people to rescue and reuse the piece of furniture?

AHMMS: What kind of products does Amy Howard at Home have

to offer?

AH: We have over 80 different and unique products in our At Home line. Our tagline is “crafting a beautiful life.” We want to show people how they can restore their own furniture pieces, create art for their own homes or start a business rescuing and restoring furniture.

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AHMMS: Painting a “family heirloom” can be intimidating! What’s the best way to start?

AH: The hardest part for users is deciding which color to paint their piece of furniture.

I suggest for the person to go to the Habitat for Humanity ReStore, buy some cabinet doors and paint the doors in the colors that they are considering. Then, choose from one of our five different waxes and create the look and finish they want. They can then follow the exact process and put it onto their piece; this creates a less intimidating project.

AHMMS: What pieces do you think make the biggest impact when it comes to redecorating?

AH: I love entry hall pieces—chests of drawers, china cabinets etc. Larger pieces can be transformed, which really transforms the room as well.

AHMMS: Do you see a trend occurring right now with certain colors or types of applications?

AH: I prefer a classic and timeless look in decor. I stay with a neutral palette for upholstery and add in pops of color with pillows, lamps, throws or cocktail tables, etc.

Strong color is definitely in. Navy, orange, green...the brighter the better. That’s why my lacquer spray paints are so popular.

AHMMS: What has been your favorite Amy Howard at Home product to use so far?

AH: My favorite “aha” product is my One Step paint. You can transform an old piece of furniture with no stripping, no priming or sanding. When I meet people and they show me photos of their kitchens that they transformed on a Saturday for under $200 it makes me really proud. I see how a simple product changed their home and many times their lives. I have thousands of customers that buy and sell furniture for a living using my products.

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home trends Before

AHMMS: What is the strangest/ most unusual item you have transformed with you Amy Howard products?

AH: I purchased an old sofa at a

After

garage sale and painted the fabric on it. There were two chairs that I found at a dumpster down the street from my studio. These were major transformations. Most people don’t realize that they can paint a sofa with my paint. I just tell them to thin it with water about 20% and spray it on. Be sure and sand in between coats and wax with my clear wax when you are finished.

AHMMS: In what way can you

use an Amy Howard product that our readers might not know or think of?

AH: You can use my One Step paint on concrete, vinyl, glass, ceramic, wood, lacquer, melamine.

You don’t have to seal it with wax, if you decide not to. Ours is the only chalk-based paint that has no VOC’s, contains no methanol and doesn’t have to be sealed. We are currently in 2,400 Ace Hardware stores in four countries. We have several hundred boutique stores that sell and teach how to use our products.

AHMMS: Amy Howard at Home has become such a huge success; do you ever miss designing and manufacturing furniture?

AH: I do miss the creative process sometimes. However, I love seeing someone enjoy the bragging rights from rescuing and restoring their piece of furniture. I am in the process of working on a book that will be out in October 2017 by Abrams Publishing Rescue Restore Redecorate.

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stocking stuffers

Customized Wood Print Design & Print Store Germantown, TN 901.488.4974

Wolf River Popcorn www.wolfriverpopcorn.com 901.849.9262

Cotton Blossom Soaps Kindred Spirit Style $9-14 Oakland, TN 901.235.6945

Glass Enamel Jewelry

by Cathy Talbot The Caron Gallery Tueplo, MS 662.205.0351

Long Grain White Rice Delta Blues Rice www.deltabluesrice.com

Coffee Presse Cup by Bobble $29.99 www.waterbobble.com 52 | At Home Memphis & Mid South •December 2016

FlashPatch Eye Gels & SmartMud Mask $50 for 30 pairs & $30 for 4 masks patchology.com

stocking stuffers

Tennessee State Puzzle Make A Statement! Studio, $20 "MakeAStatementStudio.com" on Facebook

Holiday Silver Coin A Coin & Silver Shop, $25 Memphis, TN 901.590.2022

Freaker USA- Insulate Stop Bottle Sweat About the South, $12 Tupelo, MS 662.844.2689

Confit, Herbs, and Mustard French Lavendar & Honey Boutique, $7-20 La Maison Antiques, 901.537.0009 Johnston's and Elgin Scarf, Barbour Hat Marcolisni, Milano Socks MLM, $29-135 Tupelo, MS 662.842.4165

Gold + Stone Jewelry price varies shopgoldandstone.com

Restoration Bath House Bath Bombs Blue Door NoCo, $6 each or 4/$20 Corinth, MS 662.643.7950 December 2016 • athomemms.com | 53

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getaway

All Things Biltmore Text by Claire Peeler | Photos courtesy of Explore Asheville

Asheville, North Carolina, is a place not easily forgotten once visited. The town’s lively yet laidback vibe keeps families coming back time after time, but history is the true draw in Asheville. From the Biltmore Estate to historic bed and breakfasts, it seems every corner holds a past waiting to be uncovered in this remarkable city.

The star of the show in Asheville is The Biltmore House and Gardens. The estate is considered America’s largest home and is a must-see. Crafted by George Vanderbilt in 1895 as a mountain retreat, the property is now open for the public to view and to discover the fascinating history of the Vanderbilt family.

Visitors may explore the 250-room mansion on a self-guided tour or with a recorded audio guide. The itinerary includes rooms on three floors and the basement of the home, all furnished with vintage clothing, art, furniture and more. Additional guided tours of the rooftop, grounds and behind-the-scenes goings on satisfy the curiosity of guests seeking a deeper look into the Biltmore.

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Although the mansion is the main motive for a visit to Biltmore, the estate offers much more than a glimpse into the Vanderbilts’ grand house. The Estate Garden and Grounds, which were designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, America’s foremost landscape architect, are worthy of a visit, as well. From America’s first managed forest to a one-of-a-kind rose garden, the Biltmore grounds are a remarkable sight for horticulture lovers and history buffs alike.

The Biltmore Estate Trails

allow guests to see this wonderful property from every angle. Roughly 22 miles of paths offer beautiful views of the Biltmore home along with a chance to explore the rest of the property. The forgiving terrain makes for a fun activity the whole family can enjoy.

While most travelers choose to visit the Biltmore during the warmer months in order to enjoy the beautiful foliage in this mountainous region, the Christmas season is also a wonderful time of the year to visit. Now through Jan. 8 the mansion hosts a Christmas Day Celebration, with the entire home lavishly decorated for the holiday. At night, guests can enjoy Candlelight Christmas Evenings; the house is lit only by firelight and candlelight, reminiscent of the era in which the Vanderbilts spent holidays there.

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getaway

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Just across the street from the estate await fashionable shops, acclaimed restaurants and beautiful architecture in Biltmore Village. It’s a perfect place to spend a day shopping or just to stop by to grab a bite to eat after a day at the Biltmore. The Corner Kitchen draws locals and tourists alike. Located in a former home built around 1895, the quaint restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.

The perfect complement to a day of exploring the Biltmore is a ride on the Blue Ridge Parkway. The parkway stretches through the Great Smoky Mountains in North Carolina to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. Just minutes away from the estate, the quick trip affords some of the most beautiful views in the country.

You don’t have to be a Vanderbilt to spend the night in a lavish home in Asheville; the area boasts a variety of historic houses now accessible to the public as bed and breakfasts.

Built in 1892 as the residence of George Vanderbilt’s personal attorney, The Biltmore Village Inn offers Southern hospitality in Victorian style. Visitors are invited to enjoy a social hour in the evening with a glass of wine around the fire pit or a game of cornhole on the lawn. And, of course, the inn offers complimentary breakfast in the morning. The inn is a 10-minute walk to Biltmore Village and only three blocks from the Biltmore Estate.

The Omni Grove Park Inn is

the perfect blend—a family-friendly yet luxurious and relaxing hotel.

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, rooms provide beautiful views of the breathtaking region. The inn is home to a luxurious spa, a Donald Ross designed golf course, fine dining at four restaurants and much more.

The Omni Grove Park is just a short drive from the Biltmore Estate and Biltmore Village.

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travel

Florida Keys Families for

Text and photos courtesy of Tracy Louthain

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travel

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travel Cruising down the Overseas Highway toward Key West, we were greeted with liquid sunshine. While it may have dampened the landscape and diluted the spectrum of blues that is a hallmark of the Florida Keys, it certainly did not diminish our excitement. Bringing along our daughter, age 12, and son, age seven, we set out to discover the islands that comprise the Florida Keys. To make the two-hour drive from Key Largo to Key West pass faster, we counted each island as we passed over the string of bridges. Of course, we knew we would only reach a fraction, since the Keys number over 1,700 islands and only 43 are connected by bridges.

When we arrived at Big Pine Key, approximately 29 miles north of Key West, we took Key Deer Boulevard toward the National Key Deer Refuge in search of endangered Key Deer. To our delight as we neared the end of the road, the Key Deer were crossing. This rare species is unique to the lower Florida Keys and is much smaller than other species of deer. While many look frail and hungry, they have adapted to living in this salty, dry terrain, and it is critical that visiting families do not feed these friendly animals.

Key West When we reached Key West, we stepped out of the car and were greeted with warm, humid air and the musty smell of mangroves. We had arrived! We began our adventure with one of the longest running tours in Key West, The Conch Train.

We boarded the hop-on/hop-off open-air train in Mallory Square and set off to explore the streets of Key West.

The Conch Train’s engineers provide lively stories of the history and folklore of Key West. Captain Kenny took us down the narrow tree-lined streets, cruising by pastel-colored homes built in classic New England Revival-style architecture, and painted a vivid picture of Key West’s history while sharing his personal stories of growing up on the island.

Next stop was the Key West Aquarium near Mallory Square. Showcasing the marine life of the Florida Keys, the aquarium features daily tours, feedings and touch tanks, making it a fun and interactive experience. Nearby, the Shipwreck Treasure Museum is home to historic valuables and artifacts. As we headed to Mallory Square for sunset, sidewalk entertainers drew crowds.

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From juggling flaming sticks atop a unicycle to the cat man with his performing felines, there was no shortage of entertainment. And, of course, the sun itself put on an incredible show as it dipped into the Gulf.

Refreshed and ready to explore, the next day we set out on a Fury Watersports Snorkel Excursion. As we boarded the boat we received fins, masks and snorkel vests, required equipment for every snorkeler.

Captain Rob gathered the group at the back of the boat to give us an update on conditions and details of the two-stop snorkel adventure. “We’re experiencing rough conditions so we’re going to stay in the Gulf today,” he informed the group.

After covering a few rules we headed out.

We rode on the front of the catamaran where the sun warmed our skin and the salty spray was cool. Our first stop was Cottrell Key. Named after a 19th-century captain who prevented passing vessels from grounding on this coral reef, Cottrell Key proved to be a haven for marine life. The choppy surf gave our seven-year-old a scare and we quickly learned smaller children do better floating with a pool noodle. Soon our family was gliding through the water, peering down at a diverse array of aquatic life. Our favorite, were the rays that liked the flat, sandy bottom amid the growing corals and grasses.

The second stop was equally as active and we caught glimpses of eels, urchins and colorful fish of all kinds. Captain Rob has been navigating these waters for more than 20 years and has seen the evolution of the coral reefs. He shared that many of the corals have been damaged due to storms and humans. Luckily, Fury Adventures supports the Blue Star Certification program.

Established by the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, Blue Star operators are committed to promoting responsible and sustainable diving and snorkeling practices to reduce the impact on the coral reefs.

Captain Rob also shared the encouraging news that organizations are working to grow certain corals in controlled environments and eventually reintroduce them to damaged reefs. A portion of the proceeds from Fury Adventures is donated to the Blue Star program.

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travel

Middle Keys Hawk’s Cay Resort offers guests a full-service resort experience. Located approximately 60 miles from Key West, Hawk’s Cay provides a central location for enjoying all the Keys have to offer. The marina features a wide array of activities, from fishing and diving to Jet Ski, paddle board and kayak rentals. With five pools and a salt-water lagoon, the resort allows guests to find their favorite. We learned that when the main pool is busy, the Coral Cay or Sunset Pool are quieter options.

The resort’s Pirate Ship pool and kids’ activity program are ideal for families with younger children. Well positioned next door to the spa, the Kids Camps offer entertainment for young ones while mom and dad can enjoy the award-winning spa.

Dolphins are the stars at the resort’s Dolphin Connection. At any time, guests can walk over the lagoon and watch the them swim, or sign up for an interactive dolphin encounter.

Bahia Honda State Park, approximately 20 miles south of Hawk’s Cay, encompasses over 500 acres and includes beaches and a historic bridge, which is part of Henry Flagler’s original railroad to Key West. We picked up a picnic lunch, masks and snorkels and headed to the park to explore. The waters of the Atlantic were still rough, which made snorkeling challenging but not impossible. As we explored the grass flats, it was like an underwater aquarium. Colorful fish, sea urchins, sea slugs and an abundance of marine life created a colorful wonderland before our eyes. We hiked, we swam, we ate, and before we knew it, the tide was going out, exposing the corals and grasses that we snorkeled over earlier that day.

On our way back, we stopped at the Turtle Hospital in Marathon, a city that comprises seven Keys. Located in what was the Hidden Harbor Motel, originally built in 1948, the facility rescues, rehabilitates and releases injured sea turtles back to the wild. Tours are offered on the hour daily (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) and advance reservations are recommended. On this day, our tour guide, Blair from Lawrenceburg, TN, started her presentation in a classroom, where she described the seven sea turtle species. After the class and a short video, the group headed to the outdoor facility, where we were introduced to each turtle by name and heard about their injuries, which ranged from entanglement to impaction (ingesting trash) to boat hits to tumors. By the end of program, we viewed four different species of sea turtles, and adopted April, a Green Sea Turtle who became a permanent resident at the hospital after losing her eyesight.

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travel

Upper Keys - Key Largo Continuing north, we reached Islamorada, a collection of five keys. At mile marker 84.5, we discovered Theater by the Sea. Established in 1946 by the McKenney Family, we found the park to be well maintained and the connection between the staff and the animals was truly remarkable. A path leads guests to each guided wildlife presentation, including fish and sea turtles, rays, crocodiles, nurse shark, and parrots. The finale included intimate performances by Atlantic bottlenose dolphins in the lagoon, followed by a California sea lion show. From the dedicated staff to the shows, this classic Florida roadside attraction is an enjoyable and entertaining way to learn about aquatic species. To make the visit even more memorable, guests may have an “Animal Interaction,” an in-water encounter with some of the animal ambassadors.

The finale was our visit to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, which encompasses a 21-mile stretch of a barrier reef that is more than 220 miles long and spans from Key Biscayne to Dry Tortugas. Upon arrival, we learned conditions were rough in the Atlantic; the boys decided to view the marine life through the glass at the Visitor Center’s 30,000-gallon saltwater aquarium, while we girls took on the challenge. After a choppy 30-minute boat ride to the reef, we parked on the back side, reducing the six-foot waves to more manageable two-foot swells. We suited up and hopped in. Below the surface, we found a colorful underwater paradise teeming with life.

Only 50 feet in front of the boat, the edge of the reef offered what we affectionately named the “fan garden.” Dozens of colorful fanshaped corals swayed in the current like a beautifully choreographed dance. Colorful fish swam in and out, using the fans’ large plumes for protection. Along the edge of the reef we encountered colorful fish of all varieties and sizes—barracuda, drum, angelfish, parrotfish and many others. A highlight was spotting a 30-pound black grouper.

In the end, our family agreed that exploring the Florida Keys is a wonderful adventure and viewing wildlife in its natural habitat is extraordinary. From the Key Deer in the park to manatees under the dock to rays and colorful fish within the living reefs to the iguanas in the trees, we thoroughly enjoyed meeting the local inhabitants of all sizes and species.

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travel

Best Places for Conch in the Florida Keys Key West is known as the Conch Republic and this shell is the ultimate delicacy among local restaurants. Therefore, along our journey we searched for the best conch.

Sloppy Joe’s. On Duval Street in the heart of Key West, Sloppy Joe’s is one of the most famous places for conch. Named by Ernest Hemingway, Sloppy Joe’s serves conch chowder and conch fritters with key lime dipping sauce.

201 Duval Street, Key West. 305.294.5717 Conch Republic Seafood Company. Located within a historic dockyard, this sponge warehouse-turned restaurant serves delicious conch dishes. Try the cracked conch, which consists of tempura battered queen conch lightly flash fried and served with orange horseradish marmalade.

631 Orange St., Key West.

305.294.4403 Hogfish Bar & Grill. A local favorite, Hogfish is located just north of Key West on Stock Island. Known for Bahamian Conch Chowder, Homemade Conch Salad and Killer Conch Fritters, Hogfish does not disappoint.

6810 Front St., Stock Island.

305.293.4041 Square Grouper. Known by locals for innovative small plates, ever-changing specials and homemade desserts, the real highlight is the flash fried conch appetizer. Lightly breaded and fried, the conch is topped with a ponzu and wasabi drizzle that had us licking the plate.

22658 Overseas Hwy (MM 22.5), Cudjoe Key. 305.745.8880 Lorelei Restaurant & Cabana Bar. Located in Islamorada, Lorelei knows conch! From the Sunset Conch Fritters to the Bahamian Conch Salad to the Cracked Conch Appetizer to the Keys Conch Chowder and Cracked Conch Sandwich, Lorelei “wowed” us. (Bonus: The casual intercostal location over the water provided a rare glimpse of manatees and a passing nurse shark.)

Mile Marker 82, Bayside, Islamorada. 305.664.2692 Getting There: Allegiant offers direct flights starting at $209 from Memphis to Ft. Lauderdale.

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social

tupelo craft beer Ale Trail Photos courtesy of Megan Edit On Thursday, September 29, Downtown Tupelo hosted a progressive craft beer tasting trail with 14 of their merchants. MLM Clothiers, Blairhaus, Caron Gallery, and About the South were just a few of the many merchants that helped host the event, each with a different craft beer available to taste and food to pair with the flavors. The event ended with an after party where brewery representatives sold cases of beer to the sound of live music.

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social

Corinth Grand Illumination Photos courtesy of Randy Williams The 2016 Grand Illumination featured 12,000 luminaries lit for the fallen Civil War soldiers throughout historic downtown Corinth, MS. This event shared the day with the downtown holiday open houses. Visitors helped the community kick off the holiday season and enjoyed the splendor of the luminaries that night.

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social

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social

Ethan Allen presents A Disney Collection Photos courtesy of Chad Holman

On Saturday, November 19, the Cordova Ethan Allen showroom celebrated the launch of their brand new Ethan Allen Disney Collection.

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social

Palladio

Christmas Open House

On Thursday November 3 Palladio Antiques and Interiors celebrated their highest attended Open House yet! Complimentary refreshments were spread throughout the shops and booths fully adorned for the holiday season ahead. A portion of the proceeds from sales during the preview party was donated to Southern Reins Center for Equine Therapy.

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social

Ladies' Holiday Lunch at Simply Delicious Photography by Ginni Jones

On Thursday November 10 members of the Southwind Garden Club enjoyed a holiday lunch catered by Simply Delicious. They listened to a wonderful holiday playlist while receiving wonderful ideas from Gracie Leathers of Gracie Leathers Events on holiday cocktails and more!

Sandra Lewis, Denise Henning and Nicole Ellichman

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Nicole Ellichman, Patty Anderson, Carol Duffy, and Sue Perrin

social

Amy Dixon and Eric Miller

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wedding

Sarah Haley Seth Cannon August 27,2016 Memphis, TN

Parents of Bride: Rusty & Carol Haley Parents of Groom: Chris & Vicki Cannon 78 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • December 2016

wedding

SOURCES Ceremony & Reception Venue: Bellevue Baptist Church Rehearsal Dinner: Chickasaw Country Club Planner: Nancy Bryan & Sarah Crocket Photographer: Javen Photography Florist: Flowers by Regis Montgomery Caterer: Kevin Bush at CFY Catering Baker: Lynn Savage Violinist: Joy Wiener Organist: Samuel Metzger Hair/Makeup: Tre Regazze, Jennifer Erickson & Shannon Bream Dress: Barefoot Bride Bridesmaid Dresses: www.convertiblewrapdress.com Invitations: RSVP Stationers Rings: Blue Nile

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arts

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At Home Memphis & Mid South:

In your recent autobiographical film Coat of Many Colors you told your childhood story of your mother creating you a coat out of rags. Why did you base the film on this memory in particular?

Dolly Parton: When I wrote the song Coat of Many Colors, it was based on a true story about the coat Momma made me. Momma made all our clothes, and no matter what she was doing there was a story to go along with it. She was trying to instill in me more pride in that little ragged coat than there actually was. People always said that [the song] had healing effects on them because most people have been bullied, made fun of, beat up on, or insulted. So I really thought this would make a really good picture for all those reasons. But I also wanted people to know who I am, and that I’ve had a life of many colors. There are many people like my mom, dad, brothers and sisters that are all little mountain rainbows to me. So it was just about all these little patchwork memories in my life that I thought would make a great movie about family and faith.

AHMMS: The film was such a hit!

Now viewers are anticipating a second film, Christmas of Many Colors: Circle of Love this winter. What can audiences expect from the upcoming movie?

DP: I really think people are going

to enjoy Christmas of Many Colors twice as much as they did Coat of Many Colors. This [film] is a true Christmas movie. There are places in it that are about love and forgiveness, but this is about Christmas and the birth of Christ. I think people are going to be intrigued with all the depth, adventure, suspense, joy and tragedy of it. Just like Coat of Many Colors it will make you laugh, it will make you cry, and it’s really meaningful. And it’s all centered around the holiday season—and we all love Christmas, don’t we? I do.

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arts

AHMMS: You have made an indelible mark on the world of entertainment not only as a singer/songwriter but also as a producer, actress and author. In your opinion, what is the most impactful piece of work you’ve completed thus far?

DP: Well, I would have to say I was proud of the Coat of Many Colors. I wrote the song, and I was very involved in the

content of it. Pam Long did a wonderful job writing the screenplay, and she is just a talented Southern girl. We got along really well, spent many hours together, and she got it because she’s a country girl, as well. But also what it represents, which is for people to see who I am, where I am from, and what I am about. And to really honor my parents, and that little song that has meant so much to so many. So I think that will probably always a be highlight. But I’ve had so many wonderful things happen in my life, and I appreciate them all.

AHMMS: Even with the busyness that comes with stardom, you always seem to make time to come back to your home of East Tennessee. What does being at home mean to you?

DP: I love my home in the Great Smoky Mountains. I think it’s one of the most beautiful parts of the world, especially in the spring when the beautiful leaves are blooming then [when they] change colors in the fall.

But I love my people. I love my homeland.

There is just so much to appreciate and love about it. I have a lot of older relatives and even some of my own brothers and sisters are more country than I am, and they don’t like to get out of their surroundings. So I love to go back and visit them where they are in their comfort zone. And just romp around and remember being a child. Home is where the heart is, and I often take my heart back there.

Mary Lane Haskell as Miss Moody on the set of the film.

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arts AHMMS: What’s your favorite place in Tennessee?

DP: Now that’s a hard question.

I love all of Tennessee, but of course I love East Tennessee because that is my childhood.

That is my memories. But it was always my dream when I was living the Smokies to move to Nashville, to Middle Tennessee, which is a beautiful part of the country and where country music lives. So many of my dreams were waiting for me there—being on the Grand Ole Opry and making records and all. West Tennessee is absolutely beautiful, too.

Tennessee is the only state I know that is like three states in one. The mountains, the rolling hills of middle Tennessee, and then that flat land, like it’s a whole other state.

AHMMS: What does being a

Southern woman mean to you?

DP: Well, I am a steel magnolia.

I love being a Southern woman.

They call me the iron butterfly, and I think that’s very similar to steel magnolia. That just means I am a strong, emotional woman. I wrote a song years ago called " Eagle When She Flies" and it has the line “gentle as the sweet magnolia, strong as steel.” She’s always there, she’s a shoulder to lean on, “she’s a sparrow when she’s broken, but an eagle when she flies.” I think that represents a true Southern woman, and I just like the way we are.

AHMMS: What kind of person do you aspire to be daily?

DP: I try to be a better person every day. I wake up hoping everything is going to be good, and expecting it to be. But if I wake up and there is trouble, heartache, sorrow, whatever difficulties might be there, I try to help fix that as quick as I can. I find strength in God, family or friends to move on to whatever the next phrase is from that. I have a good attitude. I have a loving heart, and I think I inherited that from both sides of my family. I just really try to do my best every day, and I try to make the world a better place and myself a better person.

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entertaining

New Year’s Eve Cocktail Party

The new year is upon us, and everyone loves a good New Year’s Eve party. Event/lifestyle designer Angela Mazanti shares her ideas and inspirations for ringing in 2017. Cheers!

Text by Lesley Harris Colvett | Photography by Philip Murphy Photography

The inspiration: The inspiration for this New Year's Eve party was “New Beginnings.”

Mazanti says she is excited to celebrate the amazing possibilities, new friendships and fresh starts that the new year holds.

The decor: Mazanti saturated the decor with holiday spirit. From the decorated trees to the candles and lit garlands, the look reflects her love of glamour. “It is hard for me to stick to just one look, so I usually do at least two trees with different design elements,” she explains. “No matter what looks I do, I will always have my ‘glamour’ tree. I love glitter and sparkle so much I am always tempted to leave it up all year, but much to my family’s protest I usually get it down sometime in January!”

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entertaining

The flowers: In the middle of the table Mazanti placed a long mirrored trough with nothing but baby's breath to represent a snowy, wintery look.

The menu: Party guests enjoyed savory and sweet bite-sized appetizers and a hot cocoa bar to warm them from the inside out. The menu included bacon-wrapped dates stuffed with goat cheese, mini bacon and cheese quiches, goat cheese topped with rose petal confit, brie topped with imported French lavender honey, sausage and sharp cheddar cheese balls with a cocoa passion confit dipping jam, and imported French galette cookies with imported chocolate pistachio and chocolate/salted caramel spread. All of the gourmet items listed and more can be found at French Lavender & Honey inside La Maison Antiques.

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entertaining

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Tips for hosting a great New Year's Eve party: Mazanti suggests making it a potluck.

“It's so much fun and low stress for the host when everyone brings their favorite appetizer. Have a caterer provide a few items so you are not in the kitchen all day,” she advises. “Make it fun! Alternate holiday tunes with your favorite music to set the festive atmosphere.”

Create your own: Mazanti says you can create your own party by duplicating some of the things she did but adding a few of your own personal touches. “You are at an advantage because you will already have your home decorated for the holidays, so just add some great music, food and friends and it will be a memorable night your friends will look back on with warm, fuzzy memories for months to come,” she recommends.

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Story by Lesley Harris Colvett Photography by Sarah Rossi

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dining out

Passion Behind Culinary Excellence Text by Ruthie George | Photos courtesy of Erling Jensen

Erling Jensen, the restaurant that reflects the genius of its owner and chef, sets the standard for fine dining in Memphis.

Born in Denmark, Jensen began cooking at 14.

After his training at a four-year culinary school and an apprenticeship, he moved to the United States to be the chef at the Danish Embassy in Washington, D.C. After two years he moved on to start his own venture. He says he chose to name the restaurant after himself, “Because that’s the name my parents gave me and this restaurant is a reflection of myself and my culinary creativeness and skill as a chef. I give this restaurant everything I’ve got seven days a week, and that includes my soul and spirit as a chef. I’ve heard it said that the most powerful message a chef can send to a customer is to put his or her name behind the food he or she creates. I believe that’s true.”

Jensen’s dedication to providing a dining experience worthy of his name is abundantly evident in his restaurants unparalleled cuisine and providing exquisite service. “We always strive to deliver optimal freshness and flavor to each dish, whether it’s an appetizer, an entrée or a dessert,” says the chef. “At Erling Jensen, we remain focused on current trends in food because tastes and interests in food change.

But we always keep freshness and quality and unique flavors in mind.” This mindset allows the staff to present fresh and exciting flavors paired with a high level of professionalism that keeps diners coming back for more.

Jensen gives credit for the restaurant’s unique vibe to its guests. “I think the dining atmosphere at Erling Jensen is multi-dimensional. Most important, Erling Jensen is warm and welcoming and it's sophisticated, contemporary and private. I also think our atmosphere comes from our guests who, from the minute they arrive, are ready for an enjoyable and relaxed evening. And they get it.”

He is also quick to mention the contributions his staff makes to the restaurant’s continued success. “If I must say so, Erling Jensen is synonymous with good taste in Memphis.

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Since the day we opened 20 years ago, food critics as well as lovers of good food have singled out Erling Jensen as the hallmark of fine dining in Memphis. My name may be on this restaurant, but the excellent food and service we’re known for is truly a team effort. Twenty-eight people work here every day. Erling Jensen’s reputation and success belongs to each one of them.” The chef ’s gracious attitude speaks volumes about the exemplary model of fine dining he has built over the years.

The food is truly the star of the show at Erling Jensen. Favorites include the rack of lamb, crab cakes, buffalo with lobster Bearnaise, Dover sole and chocolate souffle (a must have for any date night).

This winter’s menu will include special items including a filet of ostrich served with dauphinoise potatoes and a whole-grain mustard demi-glaze with a scent of orange. Bouillabaisse will return to the menu, along with the root vegetables that are so delicious in the fall and winter months.

In addition to the regular menu Erling Jensen also offers popular special events on Friday and Sunday nights.

Friday Night Wine Dinners begin with an aperitif, followed by four courses, each paired with the perfect vintage to make the dish sparkle with flavor. Sunday night prix fixe dinners include an appetizer, an entree and a dessert for $38 per person.

Serving nightly from 5 to 10 p.m., Erling Jensen is located in East Memphis at 1044 South Yates.

For more information, visit www.ejensen.com or contact the staff via email, erlings@ejensen.com, or phone 901.763.3700.

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in the kitchen

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happy hour

Holiday Cheers!

Ingredients • 2 oz. Bombay Sapphire Gin • 2 orange half-wheels • 1 oz. simple syrup • cranberry juice

• 1 oz. Godiva Chocolate Liqueur • 1/2 oz. Peppermint Schnapps 1/2 oz. Vodka • chocolate syrup • crushed peppermints

1. In a Collins glass, muddle 4 cranberries and orange.

2. Add the gin and simple syrup, and fill with ice.

• 1 Rosemary sprig

3. Top the mixture of two parts cranberry juice to one part club soda.

Garnish: cranberries & rosemary Glass: Collins

4. Stir with rosemary sprig and ganish with three additional cranberries.

• club soda

Ingredients

Instructions

Instructions 1. Add Godiva Chocolate Liqueur, Peppermint Schnapps, vodka and ice in a cocktail shaker and shake, shake, shake.

2. Place chocolate syrup and peppermint candy onto two different plates. Press the martini glass rim in-to the chocolate on the rim then immediately dip into the peppermint candies.

3. Pour into martini glass and enjoy.

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in the kitchen

Cheesy Sausage &

Egg Casserole

After the presents have been opened and the stockings unstuffed on Christmas morning, everyone is always hungry. A delicious breakfast that is just as festive as Christmas dinner will be sure to keep the merriment continuing.

So that you aren’t missing all the action around the tree, plan a breakfast menu that can be made the day before. Assemble this tried and true casserole on Christmas Eve. Christmas morning all you have to do is pop it in the oven and a delicious breakfast that will wow your family will be ready in less than an hour!

Excerpted from The Southern Pantry Cookbook by Jennifer Chandler Photo by Justin Fox Burks. Food Styling by Jennifer Chandler.

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Ingredients • Unsalted butter, to grease the baking dish • 1 pound mild breakfast sausage • 6 large eggs • 4 cups 2% or whole milk • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese • 1 tablespoon chili powder • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper • 4 slices white bread, cut into quarters Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Lightly grease a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish with butter and set aside.

In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, cook the sausage, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon, until the meat is browned and cooked through, about 8 minutes. Transfer the meat to a colander and drain off the excess fat.

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well blended. Stir in the cooked sausage, cheese, and chili powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Place the slices of bread in a single layer in the prepared casserole dish. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread. Bake until set and golden, about 40 to 50 minutes.

Serves 8.

Do Ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day in advance. In fact, I think it is better when made ahead so that the bread has time to soak up the egg mixture. Keep covered in your refrigerator until ready to bake.

Cooking Tip: Serving a big group? This recipe is easily doubled.

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Sources 22 | AT HOME WITH Special thanks - Gina Neely 27 | HOME FEATURE Special thanks - Betsey Mosby 662.230.0569 Lisa Paris, Artwork Oxford Floral, Herend Figurines 38 | DESIGN Special thanks - The Garden District 48 | HOME TRENDS Special thanks - Amy Howard amyhowardathome.com 80 | ARTS Special thanks - Dolly Parton 90 | DINING OUT ejensen.com

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on a good note

Boys and Girls Club of Greater Memphis Hosts 10th Annual Toy Bash

The Boys and Girls Club of Greater Memphis (BGCM) opens it doors to youth ages six to 18 each day after school. Of the 4,000 boys and girls who belong to the Memphis clubs, 90 percent live in high-crime, high-poverty neighborhoods. This program for “at-risk” children stresses good citizenship, healthy lifestyles and academic achievement, and with astounding success: 100 percent of the BGCM’s high school seniors graduated in 2015 and 57 percent of the organization’s alumni say the program saved their lives.

The 10th annual Boys and Girls Club Toy Bash is set for Dec. 2 at Propcellar on Summer Avenue. With the purchase of a $100 ticket plus one toy donation, guests will enjoy performances by the six-piece show band Memphis Soul Revue, along with an open bar and cigar tastings. Santa Claus himself will be in attendance, accompanied by his volunteer elves for the evening, the Memphis Pom Squad.

clothes and shoes, but are also in need of items like computers for school and college dorm supplies. The organization welcomes monetary gifts, as well; all donations are divided evenly among the six BGCM locations.

“Last year, thanks to the Toy Bash and the Toy Drive Collection sites we received over 2,000 donated toys for our club members,” says Powell. “The kids actually get to go under the tree and each one will get to pick out a toy that is all theirs to take home, providing a smile on each one of our members’ faces.”

Dec. 9 is the deadline for Boys and Girls Club toy donations. A full list of collection sites can be found online at www.bgcm.org/events/toy-bash.

“We call it the kick-off to the holiday season because it’s one of the first events once December hits, and it goes towards a worthy cause,” Mandy Powell, the club's vice president of development and external affairs, says. “It really gets you in the holiday spirit to give back to the kids.”

In addition to the Toy Bash BGCM partners with a number of businesses that serve as collection sites to help make the annual Toy Drive a success.

The club’s website features a wish list provided by the kids themselves. Presents for older club members (ages 12-18) are especially appreciated, as they are not as common. Teens enjoy gift cards to local merchants, 98 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • December 2016

Text by Ellie Simmons | Photography by Christen Jones Photography

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