February 2022

G I F T

G U I D E

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TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S

28 | HOME FEATURE Germantown homeowners enlist Jessie Cate of M. Cate Interiors to make a 90s-era house the perfect home for their family of seven.

58 | G IFT GUID E Shop local this Valentine’s Day with our roundup of gifts for everyone on your list.

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TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S

FEBRUARY 2022

home & design 28 HOME FEATURE The Right Place for the Right Family

62 IN THE GARDEN Boxwoods

food & travel 50 GETAWAY

Natchez, Mississippi

70 IN THE KITCHEN

Braised Boneless Beef Short Ribs with Roasted Vegetables

for you

46 WEDDING

Sheerin Mehdian & James Northcutt

58 GIFT GUIDE

Valentine's Day 2022

78 HEALTHY YOU

Love and Connection

82 ON A GOOD NOTE Creative Aging

in every issue

14 PUBLISHER'S NOTE

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76 SOURCES

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FEBRUARY 2022 • VOL. 20 NO. 11 PUBLISHER / EDITORIAL DIRECTOR MARGARET MONGER | mmonger@athomemms.com

MANAGING EDITOR AUBREY ANN MONGER | aamonger@athomemms.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER GINNI JONES | gjones@athomemms.com

COPY EDITOR TERRI GLAZER

IMAGING COLOR MANAGEMENT CHARLES REYNOLDS | cr@colorretouching.com

ADVERTISING SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE HILARY FRANKEL | hafrankel@comcast.net

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES GAIL HARRELL | gharrell@athomemms.com CHRIS PUGH | chrisapugh@gmail.com QUINN PEEPER | qpeeper@icloud.com

REGIONAL MARKETING JANA FITE HERBISON | jfherbison@gmail.com

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

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

HOW TO REACH US 7776 FARMINGTON BLVD, # 1321 GERMANTOWN TN 38183 | 901.684.4155 ATHOMEMMS.COM At Home Memphis & Mid South doesn't accept unsolicited manuscripts. To inquire about freelance opportunities, send a letter, resume and three writing samples to—Editor, At Home Memphis & Mid South: 7776 Farmington Blvd, # 1321 Germantown TN 38183.

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

@athomemagazine

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PUBLISHER'S

Note

When

we think of February and celebrating Valentine's Day, many of us first think of romantic love. Some people actually get depressed because they don’t have that special someone to celebrate the holiday with. Although I am blessed to have my forever sweetheart and Valentine, this year opens up for others I hold deep in my heart— particularly my daughter and her husband.

On January 2 our daughter, son-in-law and granddaughter were involved in a serious car accident that could have ended very tragically. With the arms of God and the power of prayer, it will not. In fact, in the middle of all the pain and worry, we were once again shown hope, care and love. Our granddaughter had over an inch of glass in her car seat yet there was not a scratch on her precious body. Our son-in-law escaped with a broken back that will heal just fine and our daughter with serious leg injuries. The prayers and care they received and are still receiving are going to get them through.

The love of their family and the amazing support and care from friends in their home town of Columbia, MO, have been overwhelming. There hasn’t been a day that has gone by without something showing up on the front porch. Meal schedules have been set, Uber Eats and gift cards have come, and hugs, both in person and virtual, have been too many to count.

I could go on and on, but getting back to the topic of Valentines, this has driven the point home to me that the love of our sweethearts is special and true, but the love of true friends is rare and few.

Wishing all of you a wonderful February. Thank you, God, for my sweetheart, family and friends and for making me realize just how precious our time here is.

- Margaret Monger, PUBLISHER

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STORY TERRI GLAZER I N T E R I O R D E S I G N M . C AT E I N T E R I O R S P H O TO S S T E FA N I E R AW L I N S O N P H OTO G R A P H Y 28 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • February 2022

H O M E F E AT U R E

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H O M E F E AT U R E

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H O M E F E AT U R E

when

the right family finds the right place and the right designer, everything comes together perfectly to create a true dream home. Designer Jessie Cate’s Germantown clients and their new-to-them house are proof.

The family’s previous residence was great— a brand-new build with all the latest bells and whistles. While it had all the trendiest details, it didn’t have enough bedrooms to accommodate their five children or a yard large enough for the young siblings. The couple knew they needed to move, and

realized they’d probably need to buy an existing home to get the large lot they wanted, but busy schedules wouldn’t allow them to take on a total redo.

When they found the place they now call home, it was just what they were looking for; a “unicorn” as Cate describes it. Built in 1991, the house was in great condition and had already received a major facelift from Salvaggio Group, thanks to the previous owners. In fact, it was the gorgeous backyard with outdoor living room, kitchen, lounge area and resort-style pool, as well as plenty of green space, that drew them to make the purchase.

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H O M E F E AT U R E

the couple

called on Cate in May 2020 to help make this great house their home. She recalls having discussions to make sure their expectations would be realistic for a 30-year-old home, since they were coming from a tricked-out new house.

When they shared that they had hardly even used some of the luxury features of their previous place, she knew they were on board.

“There was a bit of a disconnect between the exterior and the interior of this house. It felt a little dark and heavy inside with stone accents and dark floors,” the designer recalls. “My clients love the beach; it’s their happy place. I wanted to give them that same feel of relaxed comfort so I played on blue shades and the feel of the exterior rooms and tried to keep it with the traditional fit of the architecture.”

Cate goes on to explain that for this project, as she does with all her clients at M. Cate Interiors, she adopted a save/splurge policy that involves prioritizing the areas most important to the homeowners, then saving in other aspects of the plan.

To that end, she decided that instead of replacing the existing hardwood flooring throughout the home, it would stay, stripped of its ebony finish. Now covered in clear-coat, the floors show only remnants of their former color, left intentionally to evoke a casual, coastal feel.

Interior walls that were once a variety of colors including dark navy and gray now wear the same shade of white, a Sherwin Williams stock color. Cate says, “It changes with the lighting, so even though it's all the same paint color, you don't necessarily feel it. It’ll keep their touch ups easier as they need to; they won’t have to try to remember which color paint went where.” She also updated lighting throughout the house, sourcing many fixtures from Gabby, a line with a variety of related products to provide continuity of style from room to room.

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HO OM MEE FFEEAT ATU URREE H

the home's

two-story entry is compact yet impressinve. A striking floral arrangement by John Mark Sharpe draws the focus upward to the staircase landing, where a custom commissioned beach scene by local artist Whitney Winkler speaks to the family’s love of the ocean.

Elegant Thibaut wallpaper and custom drapes with a subtle herringbone pattern give the dining room a grand and elegant aura, while washed linen slipcovers on the dining chairs keep the mood from going too fancy. A simple gold chandelier and Greek key mirror add to the timeless feel.

The gem of a kitchen was already in place, thanks to the previous renovation. Generous proportions give the room and the light-filled breakfast area adjacent to it a gracious feel. Cate only had to paint the walls, change the lighting and update the cabinet hardware. Handsome Ashley Norton pulls and knobs were a splurge item important to the homeowner and the designer wholeheartedly agrees with the choice. “Nothing else was going to complement the flow of the rest of the house,” she says, noting that the client’s ability to come to decisions easily made her a dream collaborator. “She knew what she did and didn’t want to splurge on and she made choices quickly to keep the project rolling.”

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H O M E F E AT U R E

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H O M E F E AT U R E

the centerpiece

of the den is a comfy sectional big enough for the whole gang. It encases an equally inviting oversized ottoman upholstered in cloud blue chenille. Nailhead trim gives a nod to formality in this familyfriendly space. The room’s fireplace received a complete makeover, Once covered in dark, heavy fieldstone, it now has a fresh and traditional look with classic marble and clean, white trim. Pairs of stately iron-and-glass doors flank the fireplace, providing full-length views of the beautiful outdoor oasis.

On the den’s rear wall a rich navy blue chest creates a smart focal point. Hanging above it, an original painting by local artist Georgia Jane of the iconic M bridge is a testament to the couple’s love of their adopted home town.

The primary bedroom was another area Cate was able to transform while staying on the “save” side of the save/ splurge mentality. She used the clients’ existing bedroom furniture, fluffed up with new linens, and filled in with a new reading chair, simple art and black-and-white photo portraits of the children. “This is a place where Mom can come and have a moment of quiet to relax or work,” says the designer.

If the bedroom is the homeowner’s retreat, the adjoining bathroom is nothing short of a resort-style spa. Wide vanities with white cabinetry topped in Onda Bianco marble line both walls. The countertops were a must-have for Cate.

She explains, “I try to give my clients the best version of them and there are very few things that I say we have to have, but this countertop was one of them. When I saw it I sent the client a picture and I said, ‘We are doing this.’ She loved it too without even having seen it in person. It’s like dreamy clouds.”

The brown and gray tones in the stone reflect perfectly the colors in the dramatic marble and gold accented mosaic on the tub surround. That tile was a definite splurge, but delivers plenty of bang for the buck as it makes a big impact in a small space. Savings in the room came from keeping a traditional soaking tub with decking rather than opting for a freestanding model and from forgoing extra features such as body sprays in the shower. The homeowners felt that a spacious shower stall with one spray head and a handheld would suit their needs fine. Cate’s design also called for budget friendly marble-look tile on the bathroom floor.

The large-scale porcelain blends seamlessly both with the countertops and the marble on the shower floor.

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H O M E F E AT U R E

new lighting

in the bathroom includes a graceful gold chandelier above the tub and matching pendants over the counters. Cate opted for the pendants in place of cans to layer the lighting without the hassle or expense of tearing out mirrors and walls to install sconces.

General Contractor Kenny Cook oversaw the renovations throughout the home, including the transformation of an upstairs foyer area that once led to the home’s playroom into the extra bedroom the clients needed to give each of the children his or her own space. Now, the homeowner says the family is staying for the long haul. The designer says, “She told me she feels like she can see them here longer; this was more their home than it was when they had the previous brand-new house. When you get to incorporate your own thoughts and ideas you create something more cozy and welcoming. It’s just homey.”

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H O M E F E AT U R E

"My goal is to give clients the best version of them in their house so that they love

coming home. They love having friends over because of their house; they’re happy to invite people into their space. I want their friends to come in and say, “Oh, this feels so you” and to feel comfortable. It’s not about my look, it’s about the clients and what the clients want. " —Designer Jessie Cate

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H O M E F E AT U R E

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WEDDING

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Sheerin Mehdian & James Northcutt

O C TO B E R 16,2021 | M E M P H I S, T N PARENTS OF THE BRIDE: Lila & Alireza Mehdian PARENTS OF THE GROOM: William Northcutt & Birgit Weeks WEDDING & RECEPTION: PINK PALACE MUSEUM DAY OF COORDINATOR: TAYLOR SET TECERRI FLORIST: TWIGS 'N THINGS PHOTOGRAPHER: SMASH STUDIOS PHOTOGRAPHY VIDEOGRAPHER: JUSTIN REID CATERER: CLUB WINDWARD CATERING ENTERTAINMENT: EMERALD EMPIRE BAND CEREMONY MUSIC: LORI GILBERT BAKER: GINGER CLARK OF CAKES BY CAROLYN WEDDING DRESS: BHLDN & CUSTOM BOW BY MOTHER OF THE BRIDE HAIR & MAKEUP: MAGGIE FIELDS

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G E STA D I GWNAY

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E SW I GAY N G EDTA

natchez

MISSI SSIPPI

TEXT & PHOTOGRAPHY: COURTESY OF VISIT NATCHEZ

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G E TA W AY

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a picturesque and pedestrian-friendly downtown, grand oak trees draped in Spanish moss, Southern sunsets over the Mississippi River and so much more paint the perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway in Natchez , Mississippi.

It is a common understanding that life slows down in the South, and this peaceful Mississippi town is no exception. Here, vacationers can enjoy a myriad of relaxing activities suited for reconnecting and enjoying each other ’s company. Meander in and out of the shops on Main Street , including Darby ’s, Silver Street Galler y & Gifts, several antique stores and many more delightful spots. Traipse along the charming streets on a carriage ride, listening to the gentle clop of the horse’s hooves and the simple sounds of life in this pleasant destination. Those who yearn for an even deeper look at the stories that make up Natchez may embark on a languid open-air tour to hear captivating narrations of over 25 of the city ’s most interesting historic locations.

With a histor y that runs deep, Natchez is one of the oldest continuous European settlements on the Mississippi River and is the origin point for the Natchez Trace Parkway. Nicknamed the “Jewel of the Mississippi,” the city is filled with historic buildings, from pre-Civil War mansions to religious sites, and is home to more than 40 luxurious bed and breakfasts that date back to the 1800s. Book a room at Choctaw Hall, a circa 1836 home just steps from downtown or treat yourself to a weekend at the Beaumont House Bed & Breakfast , circa 1830, complete with a selection of lavish suites and hospitable amenities.

Those looking for a quieter respite can escape to the tranquil seven-acre park that hosts the Historic Linden Bed & Breakfast , circa 1785. Each option features a charming blend of historic elegance, contemporar y conveniences and sweet Southern hospitality.

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D G E STA I GWNAY

“HERE IN NATCHEZ, STROLLING DOWN MAIN STREET OR ACROSS THE NATCHEZ BLUFFS CAN FEEL AS THOUGH EVERY SOUTHERN ROMANCE NOVEL WAS IMAGINED BY THIS VERY SPOT,” SAYS DEVIN HEATH, DIRECTOR OF VISIT NATCHEZ. “WE WELCOME TRAVELERS TO COME FALL IN LOVE WITH THE ROMANCE OF OUR CITY.” 54 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • February 2022

delicious

dining is an

integral par t of any trip to Natchez: the town has some gems wor th the trip. Settle in for a meal at the award-winning Castle Restaurant & Pub, located in Dunleith's 18th-centur y carriage house and stable. Built to resemble a castle, this spot provides a cozy and romantic dining experience, ser ving a range of delectable Southern favorites prepared by acclaimed chefs. It also boasts the most extensive wine list of any restaurant in the state. Food lovers yearning for dinner with a view can visit Magnolia Grill, which not only has one of the best views the river, but also a wide array of entrées to satisf y ever y palate, from mouth-watering steaks and seafood to highly acclaimed burgers and more. Visitors looking to put on their dancing shoes can stop by the newly opened restaurant , The Kitchen, a bistro and piano bar located in the hear t of downtown that ser ves up a new menu each night , completed by the cheer y notes of live music performed by local ar tists.

Springtime in this charming city offers several events perfect for couples of all ages and interests. Histor y and architecture buffs will be enchanted by the Spring Pilgrimage, occurring this year Mar. 12-Apr. 12 . In a tradition dating back to 1932 , Natchez will open the doors to its exquisite historic homes for tours led by costumed hosts, theater performances, unique presentations, live music and more.

Fans of the cinema and literature can enjoy a weekend of excellence at the 33rd annual Natchez Literar y and Cinema Celebration, featuring an enthralling theme-based lecture series enhanced by films, workshops, exhibitions, book signings, concer ts, discussions and more. This celebrated festival will return Feb. 24-26, 2022 . For those looking to experience a unique celebration of tradition and culture, the Natchez Powwow is sure to be an unforgettable adventure. On Mar. 1, the Grand Village of the Natchez Indians will fill with color and song to celebrate the rich Native American heritage of the local area. Splendid displays of clothing and ar t , vibrant traditional Native American dancing, captivating singing and much more excitement await at this remarkable event.

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GIFT GUIDE

Waxing Poetic Jewelry, $55-350 Cotton Row Uniques| Memphis, TN cottonrowuniques.com

Reevo’s Hot Sauce $7.95 Ms Cordelia’s, Charlie’s Meat Market, King & Union Bar and Grocery, City Market – Downtown Memphis, TN | www.askforreevos.com 58 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • February 2022

Annieglass Butterfly Tray $113 Two Doors Down | Germantown, TN 901.385.3115 | @two.doors.down.registry

14 karat, 18 karat white or yellow gold or all platinum ring with tapered baguette sides, Round brilliant center or shape of your choice Jeweler’s Choice | Memphis, TN jewelerschoiceinc.com

GIFT GUIDE

Brianza Round Mirror 50x50 $939 Warehouse 67 | Germantown, TN warehouse67design.com

Pink tourmaline and diamond ring set in a rose gold setting, with .18 ct diamond and 1.94 ct tourmaline. Pink sapphire and diamond necklace set in 14k rose gold, with .39 ct diamond and 2.75 ct pink sapphire.

Hollie Winter Fine Jewelry | Germantown, TN

Valentine's @holliewinter_finejewelry

Heart shaped wooden bowls filled with candle $30 Social | Memphis, TN social-memphis.com

Merna Table Lamp $415 Warehouse 67 | Germantown, TN warehouse67design.com February 2022 • athomemms.com | 59

GIFT GUIDE

Facets of Fire Diamond Hoop Earrings $4,295 Sissy's Log Cabin | Memphis, TN sissyslogcabin.com | @sissyslogcabin

ENewton 14k Diamond Cross Necklace $495 Magnolia House | Southaven, MS magnoliahouse.com | @magnoliahousestore

Bitzy Biter™ Teething Ball Baby Teether $17 Itty Bitty Bella | Memphis, TN shopittybittybella.com | @shopittybittybella

Badash Firestorm Murano Art Glass Oval Vase $85 Two Doors Down | Germantown, TN 901.385.3115 | @two.doors.down.registry 60 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • February 2022

Beautiful Resin Entertaining Pieces $145-350 Cotton Row Uniques| Memphis, TN cottonrowuniques.com

Lelani Resin Disc Stretch Bracelet in Clear $25 Street Scenes Framed Art $145 each 100 Days of Scripture Cards $65 Warehouse 67 | Germantown, TN warehouse67design.com February 2022 • athomemms.com | 61

IDNE STIHGEN G A R D E N

boxwood

An important centerpiece of the living collection at the Dixon Gallery & Gardens is the boxwood. At first glance, these medium to dark green shrubs with inconspicuous flowers might seem boring to serious gardeners. I have grown to appreciate boxwood, however, thanks to their incredible diversity in shape, size and texture.

TEXT BY DALE SKAGGS, DIRECTOR OF HORTICULTURE AT DIXON GALLERY & GARDENS

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N I N T H E GDAERSDI G EN

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IENX PTEHREI EGNACRED TE H NI S

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boxwood

are fairly

easy to maintain. In fact, these plants can be kept in good shape with very little pruning if the right cultivar is chosen for a particular spot. Minding the garden adage “right plant, right place” will ensure the health of the boxwood, allowing it to grow to its specific height, shape and beauty. Commercial landscapers often trim the plants with gas-powered shears, without any regard for the natural form of the particular cultivar.

Historically the oldest cultivated ornamental plant, boxwood are long lived, sometimes surviving for centuries.

These evergreens, mostly slow-growing, can make up the bones of the garden, providing year-round structure that will stand the test of time.

The most commonly planted variety is the so-called American boxwood (Buxus sempervirens). It is not from America but was simply a favorite of the early colonists, hence the common name. The American boxwood has a reputation for being tricky to grow in the Mid South, as our poorly drained, acidic soils and high humidity are not optimal for its success. The English box, the true Buxus sempervirens, is even more susceptible to local soil and weather conditions and will not work for us in Memphis. I have seen it fail many, many times.

However, some boxwood cultivars do exceedingly well here. I have written several articles in the past covering the best choices for our climate and conditions, but I have had to alter my list recently due to cases of boxwood blight in Memphis. Boxwood blight has been present in other parts of the country, such as Virginia and North Carolina, for almost a decade. Countries in Europe have been dealing with the disease even longer.

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IENX PTEHREI EGNACRED TE H NI S

On Feb. 18 from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m., the Dixon will host a full-day boxwood seminar to discuss this beloved plant and its culture. Admission is free and the event is open to the gardening public. National and local experts and industry professionals will discuss boxwood blight and best practices for dealing with this threat.

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the

sad news is that when

conditions are right, this pathogen can spread quickly and defoliate an entire garden practically overnight. There is no real cure but you can take preventative measures to help deal with this horrible pest.

Boxwood blight is caused by the pathogen Calonectria pseudonaviculata, which will also affect other shade-loving plants like sweet box and pachysandra.

A tissue test performed at a diagnostic clinic for plant diseases can confirm boxwood blight.

Boxwood blight is spread by contact with infected plants from nurseries, or by contact with contaminated tools, clothing or boxwood used in holiday decorations. Keeping it out of your garden is the best way to deal with the pest, so sanitize any tools that you use at other locations with a 1:9 bleach to water solution.

Spores can persist in the soil for up to five years, so even a new boxwood planted where an infected plant was removed can become diseased. There is no cure, but the condition can be treated by spraying a chlorothalonil-containing fungicide every seven to 14 days during the growing season when temperatures are above 60˚F, or by removing affected plants.

The Dixon has a historic relationship with boxwood, and I find them to be such useful plants in the garden that I’m not ready to abandon their use any time soon. The good news is that some varieties of boxwood seem to have a natural genetic resistance to the blight, so gardeners are planting these cultivars, and breeders are working to use the resistant varieties in the creation of newer cultivars.

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IN THE KITCHEN

Braised Boneless Beef Short Ribs with Roasted Vegetables

RECIPE & PHOTO JIM NORTON thenortonrecipe.com Facebook @thenortonrecipe Instagram @thejimnorton

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IN THE KITCHEN

S E RV E S 8 .

INGREDIENTS: 4 lbs. boneless beef short ribs 2 Tbsp. minced garlic 2 cups baby carrots 4 ribs celery, cut into 1-2” pieces 2 yellow onions, cut into 1” pieces 1 Tbsp. fresh thyme leaves 1 Tbsp. fresh rosemary, chopped 1 6-oz. can tomato paste 4 cups beef stock 2 cups red wine, a good Cabernet Sauvignon

DIRECTIONS: Preheat oven to 325˚. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium high heat. Salt and pepper both sides of the short ribs. When oil is hot, place ribs in the skillet and brown on both sides, about two minutes per side. Remove from pan and place in a large baking dish. Set aside.

To the same skillet, add garlic and saute for about 1 minute. Add carrots, celery and onion, and sprinkle with about 1 tsp. each of salt and ground pepper. Add thyme, rosemary and tomato paste. Stir to combine and saute for about five minutes. Add beef stock and stir. Transfer vegetables and liquid to the baking dish with the short ribs. Slowly pour red wine over the meat and vegetables. Cover and roast for two hours.

When ready, remove from the oven and let rest about five minutes. Serve with your choice of a side (creamy mashed potatoes are perfect). Enjoy!

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February 2022 HOME FEATU RE Special Thanks M. Cate Interiors mcateinteriors.com Stefanie Rawlinson Photography stefanierawlinson.com

IN THE GARDEN Special Thanks Dixon Gallery & Gardens Dixon.org

GETAWAY Special Thanks Visit Natchez visitnatchez.org

IN THE KITCHEN Special Thanks Jim Norton thenortonrecipe.com

HEALTHY YOU Special Thanks Michelle Johns mjohns@transformingwellness.com Wellness MD wellnessmd.clinic

ON A GOOD NOTE Special Thanks Creative Aging creativeagingmidsouth.org

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H E A LT H Y Y O U

Love & Connection STORY MICHELLE JOHNS

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

february

is heart month.

We celebrate our love for intimate partners and friends, and we are encouraged to take note of our cardiovascular health, as well. Interestingly, our mental and biological health are far more connected than we often consider. Scientific research indicates close relationships have a significant impact on our health and well-being.

People who have close relationships that include acceptance and understanding as part of a safe and secure connection are mentally and biologically healthier.

The aspects of love and intimacy are broad with many ways of being defined. Our relationships are contextual in that many of us have family, friends, co-workers and acquaintances within our communities, in addition to having a significant partner. Each relationship may be considered intimate, but with defining parameters. Having a variety of relationships supports personal growth and mental well-being across the span of life.

Humans are designed for social connection. When we are understood and accepted in communities of belonging, we feel cared for and loved. When we feel cared for and loved, our ability to navigate stressful situations improves and long-term depression decreases. Research shows that people with fewer mental health disorders are more productive, motivated, happier, have lower levels of cardiovascular disease and fewer chronic physical diseases across their lifespan. People who have

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positive connections with others are less likely to utilize or need medical treatments.

Compassion and empathy are key aspects of intimate connection. Compassion, the desire to help someone when they are in distress, and empathy, the desire to understand someone in their distress, are equally necessary and important to overall social connections. Interestingly, our perception of others’ care and love for us plays a significant factor in our daily life satisfaction. In other words, when we perceive that others care for and love us, we are generally happier and more positive.

While it is certainly important to receive love and care from others, it is vitally important to give care and love to those with whom we are connected.

While there are a multitude of ways to connect with others and increase our wellbeing, I will highlight a few.

We communicate with words, through body language, and tone of voice. When we engage in conversation with others, we want to choose words that promote curiosity and provide clarity. Words, body language and tone of voice are directly related to feelings of support and acceptance.

Body language that is open and friendly creates immediate connection and safe space. Greeting others with a smile is a first step in creating a warm invitation. Keeping your arms at your side, extending your hand for a handshake or both arms to hug those with whom you are most intimate presents an open-body stance and invites connections. Crossed arms and a scowling face send a message to stay away.

H E A LT H Y Y O U A tone of voice that is friendly and welcoming, conversing with normal inflection and appropriate highs and lows, is best received as it feels most genuine. Be authentic.

Exaggerated inflections and monotone voice are off putting and create a disconnect.

Words are vital to creating connection. Words that unify and express understanding are most important. When someone is excited and sharing joy, replies such as, “I am so happy for you” and “I celebrate with you” are a great start to cultivating a deeper connection. Making statements such as “Tell me more about …” indicate that you are interested in knowing more about the other person.

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Mail a note to someone special.

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Smile and say hello to a stranger with whom you cross paths while running errands. (Your eyes will smile for you if you are wearing a mask.)

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Make eye contact during social interactions.

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Tell someone something about them that makes you grateful toward them.

The investment of time with others is fundamental to healthy relationships. Humans are meant to be in connection with one another. Making time without distractions from technology is a wonderful gift to give to ourselves and our beloved family and friends. Perhaps during this month of love and connection, you might try the following: •

Once a week, make a date with someone special free of distractions. Perhaps you take a walk together, share a meal or sit and visit.

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ON A GOOD NOTE

TEXT BY MIA HENLEY | PHOTOS COURTESY OF CREATIVE AGING

creative aging's

singular focus is on enriching seniors’ lives through the arts. Since 2004, Creative Aging has offered older adults meaningful opportunities to learn, laugh and connect to community through arts engagement.

Originally presented only in person, Creative Aging now offers events in person and online. It partners with over 75 diverse senior communities, museums and libraries, leveraging the talent of more than 100 individual artists and arts organizations—Theatre Memphis, the Memphis Symphony Orchestra, Collage Dance Collective and others—to connect seniors with the best of Memphis’ arts scene.

Creative Aging’s classes and performances give seniors opportunities to dance, draw, paint, play, listen and remain active and engaged; healthy in body, mind and spirit. The last two years have highlighted the dangers of social isolation. Arts engagement offers seniors a bridge to community, 82 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • February 2022

creativity and connection; a common denominator for people from all walks of life.

National research shows that arts engagement enhances seniors’ cognitive vitality, health and overall quality of life. Seniors who participate in arts programs report better physical health, use less medication, require fewer doctor visits and retain sharper intellectual skills. Creative Aging’s programs not only offer these benefits to seniors who participate, they also contribute to the local arts economy by providing paid work to talented musicians and teaching artists.

Shelby County has a growing senior population, with over 135,000 older residents. Creative Aging continues to expand, engaging more individuals each year. To learn more, visit creativeagingmidsouth.org or call 901.272.3434.

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