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.
Iwas reading my grandparent’s devotional the other day. I tend to read ahead sometimes and I am so glad I did. I thought it was perfect to share. Even if you are not a grandparent, I think you will take something from it.
The way Christmas feels as a grandparent. Christmas is different now. It’s softer, sweeter and full of magic that you didn’t know was missing until tiny hands came along and brought it back. It’s not about the perfect tree or the matching PJs anymore. It’s the way their eyes widen at the glow of the lights. The same way your own children once did, though you didn’t realize it then because life was so busy and you were so tired trying to do everything. But now, you get to see it. The miracle in the mundane. The holy tucked inside the ordinary. You sit back, warm mug in hand, and watch the little feet pitter patter across your floor. You hear giggles float down the hallway like a song you loved long ago and nearly forgot the words to. You feel time folding in on itself—your babies grown and their babies growing.
Christmas as a grandparent isn’t loud, it is sacred. It’s the glow in your heart when they crawl into your lap. It’s the tug in your chest when they call your name with that sleepy Christmas-morning voice. It’s knowing these days are rare, fleeting and holy. And oh, how blessed you are to live them twice.
Merry Christmas to all and especially to Crawford, Miles, Wells and Wesley, who allow me to experience Christmas in a way only grandparents can understand. Maggie and Buddy love you all to the moon.
- Margaret Monger, PUBLISHER
Merry and Maximalist
BY TERRI
GLAZER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANNABELLA CHARLES PHOTOGRAPHY
Set on a picturesque hilltop, the Eads home of Brittany and Shea Chandler is a showplace all year round, but it shines especially brightly at Christmas time, thanks to the efforts of a talented young floral designer.
John Mark Sharpe, owner of John Mark Enterprises in Germantown, works his magic in and around the house, creating a new masterpiece each year. The Chandlers are happy to let Sharpe have free rein, giving him only minimal parameters. “We just ask him to use traditional colors: red, green, silver and gold,” says Brittany. “[The design] is always a complete surprise! He repurposes some things from year to year, but adds new ribbon so it's always fresh and different.”
The seasonal decor starts in the front yard. The focal point of this year’s look is a festive garland that traces the dark wood beams of the white brick home’s covered entry. Elegant ball ornaments dress the greenery up in iridescent and pearly tones as well as the deep jewel tones of the season. Oversized illuminated finialshaped ornaments take the festive mood up a notch, setting the stage for the celebration just inside the front door.
Thehome’s grand entryway, two stories high with a graceful sweeping staircase, becomes a feast for the eyes at the holidays. “Maximalist is the look I was going for,” says Sharpe. Red poinsettias mingle with glittery gold and opulent ribbon from Sharpe’s recently launched private line up the stair rail and swag across the width of the space overhead. The tree is an absolute showstopper, teeming with classic ornaments in time-honored colors and accented with touches of simple ribbon.
The look is a perfect example of Sharpe’s overall design philosophy. “Whether we’re doing seasonal decorations or a wedding or anything we do, I always like it to be more of an experience-based design that’s memorable. When you connect to something you remember it better,” he explains.
The visual experience continues into the adjacent living room, where Sharpe dressed up the stone fireplace in a scale that complements its grand size. More festive balls, here in reds and grassier greens, line the mantel and spill all the way to the floor, reflecting the over-thetop joy the season represents. Across the room another Sharpe creation sets a different mood. Flocked and dressed in snowy magnolia blossoms, this tree is home to a flock of vivid red cardinals. The nod to nature makes perfect sense, as it’s set against one of the full-length windows that line the room’s back wall. Thanks to its rural setting, the Chandlers’ backyard is home to a variety of birds and other wildlife.
Theliving room features an open concept, leading to the informal dining area and kitchen. Sharpe carried the red-andwhite aesthetic onto the farm table, creating a centerpiece of greenery, more glittery red orbs and icy branches. Fun accents including mini retro-style ceramic Christmas trees play well with the Chandlers’ Etta B Pottery holiday dinnerware.
The table in the home’s formal dining room stands ready for entertaining. Says Sharpe, “I love having a table preset. My grandmother used to always have her dining room table set whether there was a party or not. I just think it’s kind of fun and nice when you walk into a place and see that. It’s a mood booster.”
In a novel twist that’s both merry and stress-free, Sharpe outfitted the entire tablescape in luxurious paper products from his Germantown retail store, John Mark’s. “They’re fun and they’re easy,” he explains, “and you don’t have to be married to anything. Paper is great to layer on the table— the liner, the table runner, the plates, the napkins, everything. We used a lot of paper cutouts, too.” He adds that having a variety of inexpensive paper products provides a great way to involve children or grandchildren in the decorating process. “They can help set the table, mix and match colors and patterns; it can be a creative outlet for everyone. And the clean-up is easy, too.”
Anew addition to the Chandlers’ holiday decor this year is a cedar tree in Shea’s game room. Sharpe said his challenge was to make a masculine-looking tree for the man of the house, an avid sports and gaming fan. “We just added in some glittery pine cones to kind of keep it more on the natural side, and some ribbon in subtle colors, like gray, gold and white, and so there's nothing overdone,” says the designer. But in true John Mark form, there’s an unexpected element: oversized illuminated glass balls provide a splash of excitement completely appropriate for the setting.
Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of Sharpe’s annual holiday transformation of the home is that he doesn’t start from scratch each year. “I love to reuse and repurpose things, but never in the same way twice,” he says. What went around the front door last year shows up on the foyer stair rail this year. Having worked with the couple for five years decorating their home, their office and other locations, he has a trove of holiday pieces from which to choose. “I love doing that and coming up with creative ways to display the items year to year,” he says.
It’s clear that the Chandlers love having Sharpe dress up their home for the holidays as much as he enjoys the task. Shea marvels at his creativity, describing the designer as a “generational talent.” From a relationship that began with weekly flower service when Sharpe first launched his business to a solid friendship now, Brittany praises the work as well as the person. “We feel so grateful and lucky to have him as part of our lives.”
Madalyn Ramey & Jonathan Bryan
DECEMBER 7,2024 | OXFORD, MS
PARENTS OF THE BRIDE: STACEY AND DAVID RAMEY
PARENTS OF THE GROOM: TAMMY AND RAYMOND BRYAN
EVENT PLANNER: CASTLE HILL, EMILY BURTON
REHEARSAL DINNER: THE GRADUATE HOTEL OXFORD
WEDDING & RECEPTION: CASTLE HILL
PHOTOGRAPHER: TAYLOR SQUARE
VIDEOGRAPHER: SAMI SUE STUDIOS
COOKIES: JACQUES LOUISE BAKERY
INVITATIONS: CURRY BLANTON
FLORIST: JAMA & COMPANY
RENTALS: WHITE DOOR EVENTS AND DETAILS RENTALS
BAKER: FLOUR GARDEN
ARTIST: PORTER RIVERS
BAND: BAND X
WEDDING DRESS: MAGGIE LOUISE
BRIDE’S MAKEUP: ISABELLA ALLEN
MAKEUP ARTIST: MCLAINE CRAIG
BRIDE’S HAIR: SALEM BAKER
HAIR STYLIST: EMILY BISHOP
MEMPHIS ARTS COLLECTIVE’S HOLIDAY MARKET
TEXT BY SUSAN FERKIN AND MARVIN STOCKWELL
Memphis Arts Collective’s popular Holiday Market will return Nov. 21-Dec. 24 to Gattas Plaza at 4998 Summer Ave., next door to Knowledge Tree.
More than 30 local artists representing a range of mediums will showcase and sell their work at this year’s market, including three new members participating for the first time. Confirmed artists include AGinn Elements, Angi Cooper, Bill Walker, Boo Mason (A Chick with a Brush), Cat Snyder, Cindy Uphoff, Combustion Ceramics, Dale Martin (Smeary Soapbox Press), Don Blalock, Eric Echols, Feefifibby, The Green Orb, Gwynevere Jewelry, Jan Shively, Jennifer Hyatt Metal Art, Jennifer Williams, Jim Krog, Jo Bradshaw, Leigh-Anne Sandlin, Low Rent Greetings, Midtown Glassworks, Nicola Tupis, Patricia Zachary, Roseanne Wilson, Sarah Terry, Sherry Robinson Designs, Snow Lake Pottery, Solstice Studios, Sandy Word, Susan Ferkin (MLC Mosaics), Teri Lewis and Tom Gattas.
“Art makes an excellent holiday gift, and there’s truly something for every taste and budget,” says market spokesperson Susan Ferkin. “With artists bringing in new pieces throughout the month, shoppers will always find something fresh and inspiring, and maybe even a treat for themselves.”
As part of its annual tradition of community giving, MAC will again sponsor a local nonprofit through its Silent Auction. Each member donates a piece of artwork to the auction, and 100 percent of proceeds benefit the selected organization. This year’s beneficiary is the Vance Avenue Youth Development Center, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides meaningful opportunities to help at-risk youth ages four to 18 from underserved communities grow, learn and thrive. More information is available at vanceyouthdevcenter.org.
“Giving back to the community that supports us is central to who we are,” says Ferkin. “Each year we’re proud to sponsor a local nonprofit through our silent auction, and this year we’re thrilled to support the Vance Avenue Youth Development Center and its work with Memphis youth.”
The market will be open Mon.-Sat. from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. It will close at 4 p.m. on Christmas Eve and be closed on Thanksgiving Day.
A special artist reception will be held Fri., Nov. 28 from 6 to 8 p.m., giving visitors the chance to meet participating artists. MAC members will also host live demonstrations and hands-on art activities on Sundays, Nov. 30 and Dec. 7, 14 and 21 from 1 to 2 p.m.
“We’ve been busy creating new work for the holiday season,” says Ferkin. “We’re excited to welcome shoppers back to Gattas Plaza to discover one-of-akind, locally made gifts.”
ABOUT MEMPHIS ARTS COLLECTIVE
The Memphis Arts Collective is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit membership organization dedicated to supporting the creative endeavors of artists and artisans throughout the Mid South. More than 30 dues-paying members participate in the annual Holiday Market and additional pop-up events in the spring and fall. The group’s executive board is elected by members, who also serve on four active committees. For more information, visit memphisartscollective.com or email info@memphisartscollective.com.
A full history of the organization, chronicled by longtime member Angi Cooper, is available at www.memphisartscollective.com.
A BETTER WAY TO VACATION: A MOM’S JOURNEY TO STRESS-FREE TRAVEL
TEXT AND PHOTOS BY KARA BETH WALL, LIVE WELL MEMBER
I’ve always loved to travel. But somewhere between diaper bags, double strollers and my SUV packed like a Tetris board, my love of adventure turned into a love/hate relationship.
I grew up in a family that stretched every dollar to make memories; sea and sand, mountains and forest hikes, and late-night board games. My parents gave me the love of exploration, and that desire to wander has stayed with me. In my twenties, my husband and I would just hop in the car and go wherever the weekend led us.
But now, in my forties with three little ones ages eight, six, and four, going away feels less like an adventure and more like a logistical gauntlet. A friend once told me, “Traveling with your kids is a trip. Traveling without your kids is a vacation,” and I felt that in my bones. I tried so hard to romanticize the chaos. I wanted our kids to explore, to see the world outside of busy schedules and laundry piles. But by the time I finished researching, booking, coordinating and packing… I had nothing left to enjoy the actual trip.
A few years ago, I joined the membership waitlist for something called Live Well Vacation Club, but life got busy, and I kept doing things the hard way. This March, though, I said “Enough with this!”, saw an opening and finally joined. By May, my toes were in the sand
along Florida’s scenic Highway 30A watching the sun melt into the water. I went back in August with just my husband, then again in October for a spontaneous girls’ trip with my mom and daughter. And in November, we swapped the beach for a mountain escape in Asheville, North Carolina. Four trips. Nine months. And for the first time in a long time, they felt effortless.
EASIER
Here’s what changed everything: I no longer spend hours searching VRBO or Airbnb, comparing dates, filters, cleaning fees and scrolling through reviews hoping I’m not booking a regret. Now, I simply tell my Live Well trip planner where and when I want to go and they do the digging.
I usually send dates about a month out. Within a day or so, I get back a curated list of options based on what my family likes. I pick my favorite. If I want something different, they send me more options. Ten to 15 minutes of browsing selections instead of endless nights falling asleep searching with my phone in hand.
The planners get better at knowing your style over time; whether you hate spiral staircases or need a place with bunk beds or a pool.
Live Well recently removed all blackout dates. Members can now travel during peak or non-peak dates, and there’s a simple calendar that shows exactly what to expect. Non-peak stays are always housekeeping only, with a set housekeeping fee for each trip. Peak stays offer exclusive member price per night upgrades and include housekeeping only options whenever possible.
More than once, I’ve stayed on peak days without paying any additional member rate. They always put their best options on the table.
Traveling to 30A, the company’s home base, has become unbelievably easy. Live Well’s owner, John Wellborn, built concierge services specifically so members wouldn’t have to load up their cars with beach chairs, wagons, baby gear, groceries or coolers ever again. Monthly memberships include $1,000 in concierge credit; annual memberships include $1,250. Need a golf cart? Beach gear? Groceries stocked before you arrive? Done. It’s all waiting for you on arrival.
As a mom, that alone feels like a vacation.
BETTER
Easier is wonderful. But better? That’s what truly surprised me.
I’ve never before had an “advocate” while traveling. If a rental wasn’t as pictured or something wasn’t working, I crossed my fingers and hoped for the best. Now, Live Well is my safety net everywhere I go. The club’s portfolio includes 40 destinations worldwide and counting.
On 30A, the team checks the property before I arrive—lights on, temperature set and welcome packet on the counter. They set up anything I ordered through the concierge. It feels like being a platinum-level hotel guest, except it applies to anywhere I travel. I’ve never experienced customer service like this, and there’s a reason. Wellborn created Live Well after trying (and failing) to find a luxury vacation club that was flexible, family-friendly and not bogged down with timeshare commitments. After spending years building relationships along 30A he knew the vendors, the local secrets and how to experience a destination like an insider. He wanted families to experience more travel with less work, so he built exactly that.
LESS EXPENSIVE
Travel expenses add up fast; accommodations, cleaning fees, rentals, beach gear, everything. Live Well’s value honestly shocked me.
Members receive 14 nights of luxury vacations for a fraction of what it would cost to book the same stays on the retail market. Because Live Well buys in volume, members benefit from the kind of pricing individuals simply can’t access on their own.
Budgeting is easier now too. I can choose a monthly plan or save a little more by paying annually. There are no surprise fees, no mystery charges, no scrambling to cover big seasonal rates.
One of my favorite parts of the membership is being able to invite family and friends to join us when we travel without paying anything extra. It’s exactly why we chose the four-bedroom plan. Before Live Well, hosting anyone on vacation felt like an unrealistic splurge. Now, our kids get to build sandcastles with their cousins, and we get to enjoy late-night conversations and card games with the adults. Those shared moments have become some of our favorite memories.
IN THE END
Becoming a Live Well member hasn’t just changed how we vacation; it’s changed how we connect. My kids have memories of beach sunsets, mountain hikes and bike rides down 30A, and I have memories of actually being present for all of it instead of burned out from planning.
For our family, membership has transformed travel from stressful to simple, from occasional to meaningful. If you’re anything like me, juggling kids, schedules, budgets and the desire to show your family the world, it may just do the same for you.
Far from the hurried pace of modern life, some 600 miles off Ecuador’s coast, the Galapagos Islands stand as a breathtaking sanctuary where evolution’s wonders unfold before the eyes. This extraordinary archipelago made up of 18 main islands and dozens of islets is a living testament to the incredible power of nature and conservation. Here, giant tortoises roam ancient lava fields, sea lions nap undisturbed on whitesand beaches, and blue-footed boobies dance in slow-motion courtship. What sets this destination apart isn’t just its unparalleled biodiversity, it's the rare luxury of experiencing nature unfiltered, uncrowded and unbelievably close.
For discerning travelers in search of a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, the Galapagos offer the ultimate indulgence: raw beauty paired with refined comfort. Whether visitors choose an expedition yacht or a remote eco-lodge, luxury here takes on a new meaning, one rooted in exclusivity, intimacy and ecological harmony.
A LIVING LABORATORY: THE ISLANDS’ ENDURING LEGACY
When Charles Darwin stepped ashore in the Galápagos in 1835, he couldn’t have known the magnitude of the ideas these islands would inspire. His observations of finches, tortoises and marine life later shaped his theory of evolution and in doing so, forever changed how we understand the natural world.
Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978, the Galapagos remain one of the most scientifically significant and strictly protected ecosystems on Earth. Today, the islands represent not only a destination of discovery but also a model for sustainable travel, where visitors become part of a story that began millions of years ago.
THE ISLANDS TO KNOW: NATURE’S CAST OF CHARACTERS
The Galapagos archipelago comprises 18 major islands and dozens of smaller islets and rocks, each with its own personality, topography and ecological highlights. While most luxury cruises and custom itineraries visit several, these destinations capture the spirit of the region:
SANTA CRUZ
Home to the bustling port town of Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz is the heart of the Galapagos. It offers easy access to luxury accommodations, fine dining and the Charles Darwin Research Station. The Fausto Llerena Visitor Center is a part of the Charles Darwin Research Station which plays a crucial role in wildlife conservation, especially for the famous giant tortoises. Guests can learn about ongoing research and see baby tortoises up close. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in the unique biodiversity of the archipelago.
ISABELA
The largest and one of the most dramatic of the islands, Isabela was formed by six volcanoes and boasts rugged lava fields, mangrove
lagoons and pristine beaches. Nature lovers and photographers will find marine iguanas, Galapagos penguins and flightless cormorants in abundance. High-end eco-lodges, some accessible only by boat or plane, offer rare seclusion. Isabela is erfect for travelers seeking a laid-back vibe and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
SAN CRISTOBAL
Formed by dormant volcanoes, San Cristobal is one of the main inhabited islands. Its capital, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, offers charming seaside vibes. Travelers can explore beautiful beaches and landmarks like the Interpretation Center and Kicker Rock, a massive volcanic formation and world-class dive site. With its small airport, San Cristobal is a convenient start or end point for many itineraries. It’s a fantastic base for snorkeling, diving, ecoadventures and wildlife viewing.
FLOREANA
Less often visited but rich in charm, Floreana is ideal for those seeking solitude and intrigue. It’s famous for its quirky “Post Office Bay,” where travelers leave and collect mail without stamps, as well as for tales of pirates, settlers and mystery. Home to flamingos, sea turtles and an unhurried atmosphere, Floreana embodies the Galapagos’ spirit of quiet wonder.
ESPAÑOLA
One of the oldest islands in the archipelago, Española (Hood Island) is known for its spectacular wildlife, including the waved albatross, colorful marine iguanas and bold Nazca boobies. Although the island has no overnight accommodations, guided day trips from Santa Cruz or San Cristobal offer unforgettable encounters at Punta Suarez and Gardner Bay. Española’s exclusivity and abundance of rare species make it a must for bird lovers and photographers.
WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS THAT DEFY IMAGINATION
What makes Galapagos wildlife so extraordinary isn’t just its diversity, it’s the animals’ complete lack of fear. With no natural predators to threaten them, species coexist with humans in a way found nowhere else.
Imagine swimming alongside playful sea lions, kayaking past penguins perched on lava rocks, or watching giant tortoises lumber through misty highlands. Spot reef sharks and rays gliding beneath as you snorkel or witness the blue-footed booby’s iconic mating dance.
Because the islands are protected as a national park, all wildlife viewings are conducted under the guidance of certified naturalist guides, often in small groups. This ensures a rich yet responsible experience and helps the Galapagos remain a precious refuge where wildlife thrives.
OPULENT ADVENTURE
Adventure in the Galapagos comes with a touch of luxury. From hiking ancient volcanic trails to navigating turquoise waters, every experience balances thrill with comfort.
• Snorkeling & Diving: Explore famed sites like Devil’s Crown, Punta Vicente Roca or Wolf and Darwin Islands with expert-led excursions from luxury catamarans.
• Hiking: Tr averse lava fields, coastal cliffs and cactus forests with private guides who tailor the experience to your interests and fitness level.
• Ka yaking & Paddle Boarding: Drift silently through mangroves as sea turtles and rays glide beneath the water’s surface.
• Photogr aphy Safaris: Some expedition cruises include onboard photo experts who help capture the islands’ magic in stunning detail.
• Priva te Yacht Charters: For the ultimate indulgence, charter a fully crewed yacht complete with gourmet meals, sunset cocktails and a custom itinerary.
CONSERVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY: TRAVELING WITH PURPOSE
Luxury in the Galapagos doesn’t come at the planet’s expense. Many of the region’s finest travel experiences are deeply rooted in sustainability and conservation. Several operators lead the way with eco-conscious practices utilizing solar power, banning single-use plastics and supporting marine conservation projects. Luxury cruises also fund local education and scientific programs, helping ensure these islands remain pristine for generations to come.
Travelers can also support these efforts as visitors are encouraged to reduce waste, respect wildlife boundaries and learn about the islands’ fragile ecosystems.
PLANNING A GALAPAGOS ESCAPE
When to Go: The Galapagos are a year-round destination. From December through May, expect warmer seas and lush landscapes ideal for snorkeling and beach outings. The period from June to November offers cooler weather, nutrient-rich currents and superb diving conditions.
Getting There: Flights to the Galapagos depart from Quito or Guayaquil, Ecuador, landing at Baltra or San Cristobal airports. Most luxury cruises arrange seamless transfers and optional pre- or posttrip extensions on the mainland.
Cruise vs. Land-Based: Luxury expedition cruises provide access to more remote islands and daily guided excursions, while eco-lodges offer flexibility and comfort, especially for families or longer stays.
What to Pack: Lightweight layers, reef-safe sunscreen, a widebrim hat, water shoes and binoculars are essentials. Most luxury accommodations provide wetsuits, snorkeling gear and walking sticks.
Know Before You Go: Visitors must obtain a Transit Control Card and pay a Galapagos National Park entrance fee upon arrival. Travel insurance is recommended, and booking well in advance is essential; many high-end cruises and lodges fill months ahead.
THE LUXURY OF THE EXTRAORDINARY
In a world saturated with curated travel experiences, the Galapagos remain refreshingly real. The islands offer the kind of luxury that can’t be manufactured—unspoiled nature, rare wildlife, and the feeling of being somewhere truly singular.
Whether you’re sipping champagne on the deck of a private yacht as dolphins race beside you, or watching the sun set over a volcanic landscape untouched by time, a Galapagos journey will stay with you, not just as a vacation, but as a deeper connection to the planet we all share.
READY TO EXPERIENCE THE GALÁPAGOS?
Let the experts at Travel Leaders craft a personalized journey to the Galápagos Islands where every detail is handled with care and every experience is tailored to your travel style. From luxury expedition cruises to private island escapes, travel professionals can curate a trip filled with comfort, exclusivity, and peace of mind to this extraordinary destination.
LOOKING FOR THE PERFECT CHRISTMAS GIFT?
This year, give the gift of wonder. A luxury escape to the Galapagos Islands isn’t just a vacation, it’s a life-changing experience wrapped in adventure, natural beauty and oncein-a-lifetime memories. Whether for a loved one or a shared dream, a Galapagos journey is a gift that lasts far beyond the holiday season.
Contact Travel Leaders today and make this Christmas truly unforgettable.
Barbara May is the owner of Travel Leaders, proudly serving travelers for over 40 years. The agency specializes in all types of travel. Travel Leaders is located at 1125 Poplar View Lane S., Suite 3, Collierville, TN 38017. Call 901.853.6200 for an appointment.
The "both/and" Nature of the ExperienceChristmas
Christmas is a special time of year when many Christians celebrate the life of Jesus Christ and the significance of the birth of the savior for those who believe in God. It is a time of year many families and friends come together to share in communion. Christmas also has a way of internally amplifying the complexity of our emotional reality as we engage in the festivities of joy, peace, and togetherness. Amid the celebrations we often find ourselves challenged to keep the expected spirit. Externally we show up with a sparkle in our eyes, a smile on our face, and perhaps even a warm embrace. Simultaneously, parts of us can hold different truths. Loneliness can be felt while in the presence of others; sadness of what or who is missing while feeling happy; peace of being with people we enjoy while having concern for how things will go and how people will interact. The time of togetherness often
highlights the multiplicity within, which brings a feeling of disconnect and confusion. We find ourselves caught in an internal tug of war. Expectations exacerbate the internal tension and make it harder to simply exist. Our need to suppress the emotions that seem negative and embrace the ones that are more acceptable/positive stir internal chaos.
We are caught in a struggle between what we’re experiencing and what we “should” be experiencing. While we’ve developed protective patterns to help us navigate the conflicting tension of our emotions, these very patterns end up leaving us tired and seeking isolation. The challenge is twofold: how do we make space for our emotions to coexist and how do we authentically communicate without burdening others or “ruining” the celebration?
There are ways to make space for our emotional reality, communicate authentically, and honor the spirit of
STORY BY MICHELLE JOHNS MA, LPC-MHSP (TEMP), NCC, 200 HR E-RTY, 500 HR RYT
Our emotional reality is a system of parts that developed to help us navigate situations. These parts formed their perspectives during our early years and continue to influence how we show up throughout life. Though some of these parts carry difficult emotionsgrief, loneliness, worry – and can feel disruptive when we are trying to enjoy a celebration, they are trying to protect us in some way. As much as we try to suppress them, they remain active and present – nagging us to the point of discomfort, disconnection, and perhaps even frustration.
So, how do we work with these parts rather than against them?
Calming the overwhelm begins with preparation. We know what is coming and what to expect; how we prepare is important to working through our internal system of emotions and navigating the season with grace for ourselves and others. Preparation means we are intentional with our desire to nurture the relationship within ourselves and with others. Preparation begins internally. Taking time prior to gatherings to sit in a moment of silence, notice the parts that are present as you think about the upcoming gathering. Rather than pushing emotions away, you might acknowledge them. You might ask God to help you affirm and assure them: ‘a part of me is grieving,’ ‘ a part of me is anxious.’ This simple recognition - allowing parts to be seen and heardoften reduces their intensity, gives you space to settle their energy, and bring you clarity for how you might show up
in connection with others. In essence, you are expanding your internal capacity to hold space for the multiplicity of emotions within you.
Once you have calm and clarity, you are better equipped to show up authentically with others without expectation from them to fix something or burdening them with our emotions.
What does it mean to be authentic with others? How do we accomplish the goal of sharing without burdening others and creating expectations?
It means we can name what is true –“I’m glad we are all here today and I miss those that aren’t here” – without expecting anyone to fix it. It also means we can handle hearing others without needing to fix anything for them. We can respond to such a statement with: “ I understand,” “that makes sense to me,” “I hear you.”
Giving ourselves and others grace for the pressure and tensions the season holds alongside the joy and love is a Godly way of honoring the season. The Christmas story itself holds tension, chaos, sadness, and beauty. May we make space for God to enter into our humanity and transform our internal limitations, create more meaningful connections within ourselves and with others, and live a more purposeful life.
An eight-ounce wheel of brie, half a cup of fig preserves or jam, a quarter cup of chopped pistachios and 20 minutes of your time is all you need for this perfect holiday appetizer! Brie is one of my favorite cheeses and this is a wonderful way to prepare it. Not a fan of figs? No problem! Most any jam or preserve will do.
Preheat your oven to 375°. Line a small baking sheet with a piece of parchment paper.
Unwrap the wheel of brie and place it in the center of the prepared baking sheet. Score the top of the brie rind in a crisscross or tic-tac-toe pattern with a sharp knife. Be careful not to cut too deeply—you only want to slice through the top rind.
Spoon the half cup of fig jam evenly over the top of the brie wheel, spreading it almost to the edges. Sprinkle the quarter cup of chopped pistachios over the jam.
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 10-15 minutes. You’re looking for the cheese to be very soft and slightly puffed. You should be able to see the sides of the brie looking squishy and just beginning to ooze. Be careful not to overbake, or the brie will completely liquefy and lose its shape.
Carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the brie rest for at least five minutes before transferring it to a serving platter. This resting period is crucial; it allows the cheese to set up just slightly so that it’s perfectly gooey and molten, not a runny soup. If desired, this is the time to add your final garnishes. I like to drizzle with a little honey and a sprinkle of sea salt. Of course, sliced figs make a beautiful and delish addition.
Serve with an assortment of crackers, crostini and even sliced apples for those who are gluten-free.
DECEMBER 2025 SOURCES
HOME FEATURE
Special Thanks -
John Mark Enterprises
@johnmarkenterprises
Annabella Charles
annabellacharles.com
EXPERIENCE THIS
Special Thanks -
Memphis Arts Collective
memphisartscollective.com
TRAVEL
Special Thanks -
Travel Leaders
901.853.6200, 901.377.6600
HEALTHY YOU
Special Thanks -
Michelle Johns
mjohns@transformingwellness.com
IN THE KITCHEN
Special Thanks -
Margaret Monger
ON A GOOD NOTE
Special Thanks -
Mid South Mission of Mercy
midsouthmissionofmercy.org
Mid-South Mission of Mercy
TEXT BY BETH OKEA
Mid-South Mission of Mercy is an annual two-day clinic providing free dental services to underserved and underinsured people in and around Memphis. Since 2016, the event has provided more than $12 million in free dental services to over 16,000 patients.
“While the number of patients we treat may be great, it’s each individual for whom you get to relieve pain or improve their dental health that really matters,” says Dr. Mitchel Godat, periodontist and dental implant surgeon at Periodontal Associates of Memphis and CEO of Mid-South Mission of Mercy. “I remember a woman we treated who was missing her front tooth. When she smiled, she’d put her hand over her mouth because she was embarrassed. After we put a temporary in, she went to smile and cover her mouth but then realized she doesn’t need to hide her smile anymore. That type of relief is why we do what we do.”
The nonprofit’s 10th annual event will be held on Fri., Jan. 23 and Sat., Jan. 24, 2026 at Bellevue Baptist Church. This milestone is made possible through collaboration with community partners including the Memphis Dental Society and the Tennessee Dental Hygienists’ Association as well as the support of more than 16,000 community volunteers. One such volunteer is Dr. Taylor Reed of Reed Family Dentistry, a third-generation, family-owned practice with offices in Millington and Covington, TN.
“Mid-South Mission of Mercy is a great way to give back to our community,” says Dr. Reed. “It gives us an opportunity to use our skills and training to meet a real need. Everyone is appreciative, and it’s always a rewarding experience.”
For more information, to receive services, donate or volunteer, visit midsouthmissionofmercy.org.
BECKY BARKELEW, DR. TAYLOR REED, CHRISTY SMITH AND JAELON HITT WITH REED FAMILY DENTISTRY VOLUNTEER AT THE ANNUAL MID-SOUTH MISSION OF MERCY EVENT, PROVIDING FREE DENTAL CARE TO THOSE IN NEED.
