July 2019

Piperton It’s all about Family Paradise

MAKE A SPLASH!

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CONTENTS JULY 2019

30| HOME FEATURE: Frances and Mike Smith share their waterside home that serves as the perfect Independence Day spot for their large family to gather.

42|DESIGN: Lamp Shade House, a locally owned business attuned to customer service, gives their tips and tricks for selecting your home’s perfect lighting.

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CONTENTS J U LY 2 0 1 9

16 98

26 30 42 48

For You healthy you Exercise on a good note Camp Good Grief

Home & Design at home with Judy McLellan home feature With Family in Mind design Shedding a Light on Lamps in the garden Hydrangeas

Travel & Culture

60 92

52 60 70 72 78

82 92 94

getaway Raleigh, NC travel Majestic Maui experience this Malco Powerhouse social Mid South Happenings wedding DeLeeuw/West

Food & Drink entertaining To The Graduate! dining out Sweetgrass in the kitchen Bacon, Tomato and Gruyere Tart

In Every Issue 14 97

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72

84.

Publisher's Note Sources

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JULY 2019 • VOL. 18 NO. 4 PUBLISHER / EDITORIAL DIRECTOR MARGARET MONGER | mmonger@athomemms.com

ART DIRECTOR ANNA HALEY | aleppert@athomemms.com

MANAGING EDITOR AUBREY ANN MONGER | aamonger@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 SANDERS | brmcdonald45@gmail.com GAIL HARRELL | gharrell@athomemms.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 901.684.4155

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 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, 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.

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publisher’s note Happy birthday, America. Some say it’s been 243 years since the Declaration of Independence was signed and others argue, but that’s ok. It seems we have many arguments these days on many topics concerning America. I am just going to celebrate Independence Day like I have every year since 1994, when I first purchased $5 Old Navy shirts for our entire family. We have owned an Old Navy shirt every year since its conception, with the exception of maybe two years. Although a couple of those shirts have “bitten the dust,” most still remain in our cabin in Hardy, Arkansas, along with the awkward family photos of us wearing them. In one picture alone, there were 25 of us—that is a lot of $5 tee shirts!

Although our family has grown tremendously since 1994, our time together is still precious and celebrating the Fourth is still game on for our crew! We still get excited over the “buy one, get 10” fireworks that Trip might or might not have jumped in the river to keep from catching on fire more than once. We still hang our tacky dollar-store decorations everywhere and bedazzle ourselves with as much red, white and blue paraphernalia as we can find. For years our neighborhood association, Rio Vista, held a floating parade and prizes were given to the most “over celebrated” or obnoxious, as some sore losers might like to call it, family.

I mean, what is wrong with making your mother-in-law dress up as the Statue of Liberty and your daughter as her “mini me” Lady Liberty? There is absolutely nothing wrong with your 60-something-year-old aunt and her friend in their mock thong bikini tee shirts shaking their “groove things” while floating down the river. It’s almost as natural as our “all American" Old Navy shirts being made in Korea. Yes, like America, our family’s holiday traditions might seem to have issues, but I couldn’t imagine celebrating any other way or living anywhere else. Cheers to another year, USA! Back-to-back world war champions!!!

— Margaret

Publisher

Photo: Steve Roberts 14 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • July 2019

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healthy you

EXERCISE for Healthy Joints and for Life

Story: Michelle Johns

As a yoga teacher, I often hear people’s reasons why they cannot do yoga or exercise. I hear it all, from “I have bad knees” to “I’m just too tight.” Then there’s “I can’t touch my toes, I have bad hips, my shoulder hurts, and one side of my body is shorter than the other.” The reality is that we all have challenges. It’s our response to challenges that makes the difference in outcomes for our bodies and minds. If we say we can’t, we won’t.

I have had the joy of seeing so many success stories while teaching yoga. I have had students in their 70s come to yoga six weeks after hip replacement. I have had students begin yoga in their 60s with severe arthritis. I have had students come to hot yoga, where the room is over 100 degrees, while going through menopause. I have had students come to yoga with partial limb limitations. In each of these situations, the students have been the strongest and most determined people. They aren’t worried about what other people are thinking of them; their main concern is helping themselves.

I am not insinuating that you should ignore injuries and “push through” them. I am encouraging you to move past excuses and find a way. Research shows that physical therapy integrated with exercise improves mobility and strength, and heals wounds. In fact, with physical therapy and exercise, surgery can sometimes be avoided.

Most of the time the issue is not that the body is so severely damaged that it cannot heal, the issue is that the person is not willing to put in the time to do the work. I have two herniated discs in my neck. I have to do exercises given to me by the physical therapist in order to stay well and keep from having surgery. If I lay off the exercise, my neck stiffens and my mobility is limited.

Keys to improving joint health and exercise:

1. See a physical therapist. Get a proper diagnosis and find out what exercises will help your joints. Then, DO THE EXERCISES. 2. Drink water. Keep your body hydrated.

3. Use good posture when exercising. Poor posture places excess weight and strain on the joints. Work with a personal trainer. In group classes ask the trainer how to do exercises. Using your muscles the right way is key to protecting your joints.

4. you are overweight, you need to consider dietary changes along with exercise. You cannot exercise your way out of a bad diet. Eating right is 80 to 90 percent of good health.

Following are some exercises that help the joints: 1. Yin yoga – stretch to a point of tension but not pain 2. Strength training – use proper form 3. Walking, not running, walking 4. Hatha yoga and Tai Chi 5. Resistance training – exercise with bands

Breathe!

Breathing exercises help the body prepare for exercise. They are a great way to warm the body internally. I like to sit for at least 10 minutes prior to a workout or yoga class and breathe deeply. I literally feel my muscles expand and tightness in my body melts away.

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healthy you Technique:

• Set a timer for five minutes.

• Sit in an easy seated position. If your knees hurt when sitting cross legged, give them support with pillows. Over time, you may find you don’t need the pillows.

• Sit with the sitz bones rooted into the floor.

• Take a few normal breaths with your eyes closed and just feel the breath move in and out of the body.

• When you are ready, take a long inhale, lengthening the spine all the way into the crown of the head and rolling your shoulders back. As you exhale, pull your pelvic floor up and your lower belly up and in. Good posture makes the sitting easier.

• Inhale to fill your lungs completely.

• Exhale to empty your lungs entirely.

• Do this with your eyes closed.

A well life is worth living. Living well means taking time for yourself with yourself. You are your best when you invest in you. Exercise is good for the heart, emotions, mental clarity, cognition, and is the best anti-aging practice!

Michelle Johns is a corporate onsite health promotion specialist, integrative health and wellness educator, yoga teacher, food literacy educator and a green smoothie connoisseur. She graduated from the University of Memphis with a B.S. in psychology, is a certified health coach from the Institute of Integrated Nutrition and an RYT 200 yoga teacher. Her approach to well being and living your best life every day focuses on the foundations of self-awareness, self-care and self-discovery through whole mind, body and spirit nutrition. Johns educates clients through a journey focused on the way the whole self is nourished through food, career, relationships, exercise and spirituality. Her ultimate goal is to help clients discover not only how to live longer, but to live better by honoring the unique individual with compassion and self-love as they were created.

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spotlight

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home feature

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at home with

A Conversation with Memphis’ “Firecracker” Realtor,

Judy McLellan

Story: Amy Howell Photo: Sélavie Photography

It’s July and that means the real estate market is heating up.

Memphis and the Mid-South region are fortunate to boast many great neighborhoods and housing options. From downtown on the banks of the mighty Mississippi River to historic Midtown and beyond to the suburbs, this area has something for every homebuyer.

With over $1 billion in home sales under her belt and 30+ years of experience selling in the Memphis market, Judy McLellan, better known as JudyMac, is hot as a firecracker when it comes to selling homes. We caught up with Judy to find out more about what her experience can teach and what homeowners should know before selling or buying a home.

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at home with

At Home Memphis and Mid South: What are the top things sellers should know before venturing into the real estate market?

Judy McLellan: An experienced realtor will tell you that having your home “move-in ready” is key. Fresh paint, new carpet, updated countertops, cleaned decks, windows and gutters, modern appliances and light fixtures….all of these play a role in selling a home fast, and for top dollar.

If you are thinking about selling and you have deferred maintenance, that needs to be reviewed. We help our clients create a selling plan for their home. We see things the homeowner doesn’t and we address these things.

Marketing, including high-quality, professional photos, videos and aerial views of the home and yard, is also one of the most important priorities. Technology and social media are key to people being motivated to come see a home in person. What they have seen on line is critical to whether or not they come through the door.

AHMMS: What steps do you take with your clients to start the selling process, and how long does it take?

JM: My team and I have developed a system. We’ve done it for so long that it boils down to customers who will listen to us and implement our recommendations on the front end. An example of this would be a recommendation to paint the exterior of a home before we put it on the market.

It’s something that does cost money and you may not

recoup all your investment, but it could be just the reason your home sells fast. We have a team of people (stager, contractor, marketing, etc.) who do this every day for us and so we prefer serious clients who want to get the selling plan and checklist done. It can take a few weeks if the seller will do what we recommend. Sometimes a seller will do a portion of what we recommend and the home may take longer to sell or may not get the better offers as quickly. We get great offers and better prices when we can implement our recommendations. It may be a little more work on the front end, but getting the price you want and selling fast is the reward for that work.

AHMMS: What tip would you have for someone thinking about selling their home and making a change of lifestyle?

JM: We hear this a lot. People buy and sell homes to move for many reasons—more space, less space, school considerations, lifestyle considerations—we see it all. We have a lot of tips for buyers and sellers on this point. A few things to consider: location, resale, length of time one plans to spend there, price of home and maintenance issues, dues for homeowners’ associations. It’s a lot, but important to think about. We also understand what our clients want in their day-to-day living. Someone’s home should be their happy place, a refuge and somewhere they enjoy. Our experience in this market is one reason our clients keep coming back and referring to us.

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at home with

"

"

We love what we do. We love people, we can see what they want and we love helping them get to that next stage in life. ­— Judy McLellan

AHMMS: Let’s talk about new houses, new construction and interest rates. What are your thoughts on this?

JM: We are so excited to see the new construction and updated home designs happening here in our market.

With the oldest millennial population approaching age 40, they will want updated home features, and the way people live has changed in the last 20 years. Buyers want features like lots of windows and natural light, big, spacious living areas that flow outdoors to patios, decks and outdoor kitchens. In some of the new homes, you’ll see higher ceilings and taller windows, for example. A master bedroom and bath on the main floor are another desirable feature, as is a second bedroom on the main level. We know that as people age, they can live in their home longer if they have a master on the ground floor. Technology has been a big driver and new homes are designed to keep in step with advanced features like safety, lighting, entertainment, energy efficiency and more. And sellers with older homes can appreciate adding some of the modern technology into their homes; it really is just a matter of knowing what will help sell a home and how to incorporate it. New construction is happening all around our market and it’s great to see new homes in all areas of Memphis as well as the surrounding municipalities. Interest rates have been low for so long that it was just a matter of time before they increased. Stricter lending laws certainly slowed things down post-housing crisis but we have moved away from that and believe the market is stable and good for this area, and hopefully will be for a very long time.

AHMMS: How do you approach buyers who hire you from out of town when they are moving here? Are they surprised by our housing prices?

JM: That is important because the Memphis area enjoys great housing prices, generally speaking, compared to other markets. Memphis is a place that offers world-class amenities with moderate housing prices. We work with a lot of executives who move here for employment, many of whom are at the top of their careers, and they are looking for housing similar in quality to their previous location.

Many are surprised by what they can get for their money in this market. So most people who move here see housing costs as a plus, but they also like the variety and choices they have here. Memphis is blessed with many great areas— not every community has that.

Another thing we constantly do is sell Memphis. When we 28 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • July 2019

get buyers from another city, sometimes they don’t know much about the area so we make sure they learn, and we like to start with some of the food first! When they taste our BBQ…well, let’s say it makes our job a bit easier.

AHMMS: It seems more rentals are available lately in our market and new apartments are being developed. What do you think about renting vs. owning and how does this impact you and your team?

JM: We know a lot of millennials rent, but as they age and become financially stable (and possibly start a family), there will be a surge in first-time home buying. Renting is good for some people and we like some of the new multi-use projects we see coming online with retail on the ground floor and condos above. Of course, we believe home buying is important for a lot of reasons, primarily for building equity and having a home investment, but not everyone can afford to buy a home. Another trend we are seeing is that the baby boomers are aging. As the last of them are approaching the empty nest, they may be ready to sell their present home and buy something else. Empty nesters don’t necessarily want a smaller home, but rather a reallocation of space to better fit their lifestyle.

AHMMS: Your team is well known as one of the best in the city and has been for many years in a row. To what do you attribute your success and why do you sell so many homes year after year?

JM: We are humbled to enjoy the level of success we have had. Anyone who knows us will verify that we work super hard for our clients—the best resources, the best marketing they can get, and attention to all the details. If we didn’t do that, we wouldn’t be where we are. We have a great team with years of experience in sales, marketing and administration. Another reason is that people know us; they know we know and love Memphis, and they come back to us each time they are ready to make a move. That helps because we know what they like and when we find it, we are there to make it all happen. We close so many transactions and it takes a competent team in order to do that. We know that’s a big part of it. Finally, we love what we do. We love people, we can see what they want and we love helping them get to that next stage in life.

For complete information visit JudyMac’s website at www.judymac.com.

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home feature

With Family

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in Mind

Piperton Paradise Is the Perfect Spot to Celebrate a Large Blended Family Story: Terri Glazer Photography: Steve Roberts

The Piperton home Frances and Mike Smith share is all about family— the two of them, their six adult children, their five grandchildren and their extended family— and on Independence Day, it’s a sure bet the clan will be there, celebrating in the waterside refuge.

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home feature

The Smiths married in 2010, after both had been widowed early in life. When they bought the lot three years later, the couple had a vision of making it into a family gathering place, a vision not all their family members shared initially.

“The dock and the lake were here, but that was all,” Frances recalls. “The lot was so heavily wooded, the kids wouldn’t even get out of the car to look around!”

Undeterred, the pair went about clearing the land little by little, then embarked on what Frances describes as a “slow build.” The unhurried construction timeline allowed Mike, a contractor, and Frances, a professional organizer, to tweak the plans as the process went along, adding amenities ranging from an office on the front of the house to a pass-through window between the kitchen and back porch.

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home feature By the time they moved into their new home in January of 2015, the 3,100-square-foot structure was “perfect for two or 20,” says Frances. When the Smiths are home alone, the 2,200 square feet of living space on the main floor is the ideal size for the two of them.

From the wide-plank heart pine floors to the inviting kitchen to the floor-to-ceiling windows that afford unobstructed lake views, the mood is warm and welcoming. The decor is a blended collection of family heirlooms, pieces Mike and Frances brought from their former homes, and items they’ve acquired on their travels. Lining the hallway that leads to the master suite is a display that underscores the importance the couple places on family and faith. One wall features family baby pictures, and the other is lined with wedding portraits of the couple’s children, of Mike and Frances and their late spouses, and of the Smiths’ 2010 wedding in a chapel built for the occasion by Frances’ father. Both displays include meaningful verses from scripture.

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home feature

The master suite is elegant without being grandiose—a seamless blend of refinement and waterfront living at its finest. A graceful bay window looks out onto the lake and a glass and wood door provides access to the adjacent screened-in porch. Rich toile window treatments and accent pillows hold special meaning for Frances. She had them made years ago for the Germantown residence she shared with her late husband. When she sold the home after his death, the accessories stayed with the house. A few years later, when the property went back on the market, she happily said “yes” when given the chance to purchase back the pieces she loved, and was thrilled when they fit right into her new home and new life.

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home feature

The kitchen was designed thoughtfully, as would be expected from someone who organizes homes for a living. The main work corridor is wide and inviting, with room for plenty of sous chefs to lend a hand with cooking. Little “helpers� find their own sink and beverage refrigerator on one end and the microwave on the other, keeping them occupied and close at hand but away from the heat of the action during meal prep. Labeled shelves inside cabinets give everything a specified place and eliminate guesswork when it comes to what goes where.

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home feature

When family rolls in, there’s room for a crowd upstairs with a comfortable guest room, a nautical-themed bunk room and a Jack-and-Jill bath, plus a couple of unexpected spaces.

A door off the guest room leads to what the family refers to as “the Harry Potter room.” The handsome hideaway is just the right size for a young wizard, or a grandchild, to have a cozy snooze and dream of Hogwarts.

That’s not the only out-of-theordinary space in the home, though. A sweet nook at the top of the stairs, “the baby closet,” is a favorite among the youngest members of the Smiths’ brood.

Adorned with Beatrix Potter pieces and other keepsakes from childhoods past, it’s often the site of a blanket, a pillow and a napping grandchild. The initial blueprints called for the space to be a conventional closet, but with her keen eye for detail, Frances suggested the architect place the back wall a bit deeper, opening an unlimited number of possibilities for uses.

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home feature The true heart of this home is the screened-in porch that stretches almost the entire length along the back of the house. Anchored by a fieldstone fireplace topped by a cathedral ceiling, the room includes everything the family could need for true indoor/outdoor living. The Smiths switch out conversation areas and dining furniture seasonally to best take advantage of the scenic lake views when it’s warm and the roaring fire as temperatures drop. The built-in outdoor kitchen allows “Pop,” as Mike is known to the grandkids, to grill up a feast while watching sports on the TV mounted above the fireplace. And a cold beverage is never far away, thanks to the nearby under-cabinet refrigerator.

Frances says it was important to her and Mike to be able to share their property with others, like groups from their church, even when they’re not at home. To that end, they added a half bath on the porch. This is not just any half bath, though. A tribute to Frances’ father, a former contractor by profession and lifelong tinkerer by hobby, the tiny spot is chock full of items he made, found or would love.

Step off the porch and the outdoor fun begins.

Just past the screened porch a shady seating and hammock area beckons guests to come sit a while. There’s danger in getting too relaxed, though—that would mean missing all the fun on the water. Tubes, kayaks and stand-up paddle boards promise fun for all ages on the private lake, and the roomy dock provides covered areas to watch the goings on and sunny spots to catch some rays.

When the evenings turn chilly, the family gathers around a cozy firepit just steps from the dock for conversation and s’mores. That is, if they can lure the children away from the deluxe play set tucked into a shady nook in the yard.

It’s as well thought out as every other part of the Smiths’ home; the ground under the play place is covered in pine straw, the perfect surface for softening little adventurers’ falls.

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home feature

Text Text by

by Terri Terri Glazer Glazer || Photography Photography by

by Sélavie Sélavie Photography Photography 38 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • July 2019

homefeature feature home

The newest addition to the outdoor wonderland is a garden maze standing near the play area, just waiting to stump those who think they are clever enough to make it through. Enter from the right and only right turns are allowed to get out. Vice versa for left entries. Forming the maze are raised planting beds holding herbs and flowers.

Once the maze is solved, it’s time for a walk on the Smiths’ forest trail. The couple started clearing out the path six years ago, even before their home was built, and continually add to and improve it. The trail twists and turns around large trees and over wooden bridges, with surprises interspersed along the way. Grandchildren can search for small discs with numerals in order, a sly educational tool added by “Nana” Frances and Pop. A cute owl perches on a branch overlooking a tiny elf jail nestled in the trunk of a tree. As a special treat, each grandchild gets to select a tree to be his or her own, signaled as such by a plaque bearing their name, when they turn three years old. Two towering oak trees have already been claimed by the oldest of the grands, and one more will have the honor of choosing this month. Perhaps the sweetest sight along the trail is a display including the wine bottle which held the engagement ring the night Mike popped the question to Frances. The tableau, crowned by a heart, reminds all who pass by that love and family are foremost around here.

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home feature

With a one-of-a-kind home in a beautiful setting embellished by fun activities and inhabited by a loving family, it’s no wonder that the Smiths’ granddaughter Annabelle, when asked by her preschool teacher about her favorite place to go on vacation, without hesitation answered,

“Nana and Pop’s house.”

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home feature

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design

Shedding a Light on Lamp Selection

Story: Terri Glazer Photos: Courtesy of Lamp Shade House 42 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • July 2019

design

Lamps play an important part in any room design scheme, but choosing the right one can be perplexing. So much to consider: style, color, size, height, even the shade and the bulb! Luckily, Mid Southerners can turn to an expert to find or make the perfect lamp. We sat down with Susan Struminger, daughter-in-law of Marvin Struminger, the founder of Lamp Shade House, to find out the tricks of the trade.

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design Do you follow a formula when it comes to lamp height and shade height?

When are specialty lamps like torchieres or floor lamps best used?

There is no exact formula for height. You may need a taller lamp in a room with 12-foot ceilings than in one with eight-foot ceilings. Smaller lamps may work better in a child's room as opposed to the master bedroom; the scale of each room’s furniture dictates it. Shade height depends on the lamp’s placement. The shade will look different placed in a low spot, like on an end table, compared to a high spot such as a buffet or a shelf. We ask customers about placement before shading a lamp so we can choose the perfect type and height for their space.

Floor lamps are great in spaces where customers need light but don't have room for a table, or need to fill up a corner with some height with a touch of light. (The latter space would be perfect for a torchiere lamp.) If you need a lamp to work a crossword puzzle or read a book, a pharmacy-style floor lamp would be the perfect fit, since it shines directly on a space.

What about material and style? Do you encourage customers to match lamps or mix styles when using more than one in a room?

It all depends on individual taste and home decor.

It’s fine to mix styles and materials in the same room.

One example would be to use a pottery table lamp on one end of a sofa and a metal floor lamp to flank the other side if you only have one end table in the room due to space.

What are some considerations when replacing a lampshade or choosing one for a new lamp?

The lamp’s placement, and the fabric and wall colors in the room all matter. Keep in mind the lamp’s purpose—is it utilitarian, an accent or a focal point in the room? Whether the lamp will be by itself on an end table, or two will be close together on a buffet or entry hall table also plays into the selection process.

So many options are available now for light bulbs.

Which types of light do you recommend?

There are many choices of bulbs. We still use incandescents but LEDs are gaining popularity due to their energy-saving and long-life qualities. LEDs help save the life of the lamp socket and shade. We wire most of our lamps to accept a three-way bulb; that allows you to adjust the light output in different situations. You can keep the lamp on during the day for security and use it to read at night. The key in choosing an LED is to get one that produces the color of light closest to that of incandescents. Check the box to make sure the color is 2700K, a much warmer hue than 5000K, which emits cold light more suited to a commercial setting.

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What about making a custom lamp? When do you recommend it? What are some interesting items you have made into lamps?

Our business is very creative. We suggest customers bring in family treasures and mementos to make into lamps. A wine bottle from an engagement can make a perfect wedding gift.

Pottery, perfume bottles, or anything a customer collects can make a great lamp. These may be passed down through generations since they have a special meaning, unlike a mass-produced lamp.

We’ve made lamps out of musical instruments, toys, collectibles and art pieces.

Located at 4870 Summer Ave., the Lamp Shade House is a family-based business that has stayed attuned to customer service for over 50 years. Says Struminger, “We strongly suggest customers bring their lamps in for proper fit. That way we can help them choose from our large selection of lampshades. We also sell a wide variety of lamps and light bulbs and repair lamps and chandeliers so customers can keep family treasures.”

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in the garden

Panicle Hydrangeas for the Mid South Garden Hydrangeas have experienced a bit of a renaissance in the past few years. This is probably due to several factors: familiarity to most people; newer breeding and cultivars introductions that are patented and heavily marketed in colored containers; and promotion and celebration of this great group of plants by specialist groups like the Mid South Hydrangea Society.

Story: Roger Dale Skaggs, ASLA, Director of Horticulture at Dixon Gallery and Gardens

Big Leaf

Photo: Courtesy of Proven Winners

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in the garden Big Leaf

The mention of hydrangeas probably evokes visions of the large, snowball-like flowers of the Big Leaf Hydrangeas (Hydrangea macrophylla)—they are indeed fantastic plants. There have been many breakthroughs in the breeding of these Juneblooming plants, but they still tend to be a little fickle. If you prune at the wrong time you could lose a whole year’s flowers because many bloom on old growth from previous years. Many cultivars are sensitive to soil pH; the pink or blue color of the flowers can indicate if your soil is acid or alkaline.

Photo: Courtesy of Proven Winners

A lesser-known group of hydrangeas, the panicle varieties ( Hydrangea paniculata), bloom in July and flower on the current season’s growth. They are easy to grow, well suited to the Mid South, and can tolerate full sun. In addition, almost all of these plants can be pruned any time, even down to the ground, and still reliably produce flowers.

The flowers are held together in a panicle, hence the name, and are mostly cone shaped.

Some can be quite large, well over a foot. Though they may have greenish and pinkish hues, most are predominaantly white prior to fading to a rosy color as they mature. The blooms finish with a russet brown color.

The original paniculata that came on the scene 30 years ago was the grandiflora, commonly known as the Pee Gee. It pales in comparison to all of the new, exciting cultivars that flood the nursery trade today. I remember seeing a cultivar Tardiva grown at the Memphis Botanic Garden in the late 1980s. It was a tall, columnar plant 15 feet high and covered in loose, cone-shaped bloom panicles, growing in full sun. Nurseryman Ken "Digger" O'Dell propagated this plant for sale at his nursery. Though its size limited its usage in smaller gardens, it was attractive and piqued my interest in this group of plants.

Many years later plants like Limelight with bigger, fuller flowers emerged. The flowers were so big they would weigh down the branches when wet. Breeders also started developing plants like Unique, whose smaller stature increased its potential uses.

Growers saw market potential and have introduced over 80 varieties in the past two decades. These newly developed plants have earlier bloom times, smaller stature, and more color as the blooms start to fade. This has resulted in an explosion of hydrangeas available today, often with only slight subtleties.

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in the garden Limelight

Silver Dollar

Photo: Courtesy of Proven Winners

Photo: Courtesy of Luc Balesman with the International Hydrangea Conference

Market saturation, combined with patented and trademarked plants, has created a great deal of confusion. Public gardens are great resources to sort out plants through trial and evaluation. Groups like the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) in England have spent time sorting these plants, but the best performers in the UK are not the best for the Mid South due to climate differences. Dissemination of local information is invaluable to help gardeners cut through all the marketing hype to get the plants that work here.

Paniculatas come in a range of sizes, some of which only grow to 2 1/2 feet tall, making them useful workhorses in the garden. The taller ones can be made into tree forms or standards by pruning the lower branches, while the lower-growing plants are best in drifts. From a design perspective these plants are deciduous, late to leaf out in the spring and not the most stellar in the winter months, but they redeem themselves in flower from July until fall. I generally arrange lower evergreens in front to provide winter structure. Hydrangeas also work well

with spring flowering bulbs at their feet because as the foliage on the bulbs fades the hydrangeas are leafing out to hide the messy stems.

The lower cultivars Bobo and Bombshell are among my favorites. I've recently planted several of the Lava Lamp series (obviously marketed to baby boomers) which come in several sizes. Two unpatented plants that have impressed me are Phantom and Silver Dollar. Phantom has very large flowers held on sturdy stems to 8-10', and 6-8' Silver Dollar is more compact.

Both are exceptional plants that work well in the South, even though they didn't rank very high in the RHS trials.

Although these plants will never be as ubiquitous as a crepe myrtle in the Mid South, they are almost as easy to grow in decent garden soil with adequate moisture. I think panicle hydrangeas deserve their popularity and warrant a space in local landscapes.

Be sure to pay attention to the ultimate size when you select for a location in your garden, and you won't be disappointed.

Bobo

Photo: Courtesy of Proven Winners

Unique

Silver Dollar Photo: Courtesy of Luc Balesman with the International Hydrangea Conference

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Photo: Caroline Brown at the Arboretum Kaimthouht in Belgium

Photo courtesy of Luc Balesman with the International Hydrangea Conference

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get away getaway Seeking an escape to a new locale? Try a weekend away in the thriving Southern capital city of Raleigh, North Carolina.

Long known as the “Smithsonian of the South,” Raleigh is home to a large number of Smithsonian-affiliate museums (many of which offer free admission) and historical attractions. Lately, though, it has emerged as a blossoming culinary destination.

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Raleigh, North Carolina

Getaway

Walmart Museum

Story: Jessica Holt Photos: Courtesy of Visit Raleigh

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getaway Raleigh restaurateur Ashley Christensen was recently named Outstanding Chef in the country by the James Beard Foundation (JBF). She is the first North Carolinian ever to win the distinguished award.

Christensen owns a fleet of downtown Raleigh restaurants and bars but is best known for her original venture, Poole’s Diner, which helped usher in a culinary renaissance in Raleigh when it opened 11 years ago. An “All Are Welcome” mural on the side of the building and signs reading “Don’t Forget Kindness” printed on the front windows greet guests at this modern diner serving avant-garde comfort food.

Poole's Diner: Macaroni Au Gratin

After opening Poole’s, Christensen added to the restaurant scene a low-key spot that offers chicken and waffles paired with champagne (Beasley’s Chicken + Honey), a burger bar with house-ground 100 percent chuck burgers and spiked milkshakes (Chuck’s), an underground craft cocktail bar with latenight munchie-inspired snacks (Fox Liquor Bar), and an upscale restaurant dedicated to wood-fired land and sea entrees (Death & Taxes). Her next venture, Poole’Side Pies, will open later this summer next door to Poole’s Diner.

Garland Diner: Table Setting

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Garland

Southern fare isn’t all Raleigh has to offer, though. Explore its bustling downtown streets to find an abundance of locally owned restaurants and shops.

The convergence of global flavors and traditional Southern cuisine creates the diverse melting pot that is Raleigh.

Bida Manda, Sanskrit for father and mother, thoughtfully introduces guests to traditional Laotian cuisine. The beautifully adorned interior connects patrons with southeast Asian culture. A few blocks away the funky restaurant Garland fuses customary Indian flavors with local Southern vegetables.

The union of these ingredients makes for adventurous yet delicious dishes that are far from the offerings on a traditional Indian menu.

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getaway

Raleigh Beer Garden

To quench your thirst, stop in one (or more) of the 30+ craft breweries in the area that are part of the Raleigh Beer Trail. Email a copy of your stamped beer trail passport to receive prizes for visiting five, 10 or 15 of the Raleigh area breweries.

The stunning Brewery Bhavana, which welcomes guests into a magical setting unlike any other, is a great place to start a beer trail excursion. Belgian-inspired beer, Chinese dim sum, a flower shop and a bookstore/library come together in this unique brewery. Another fan favorite is Trophy Brewing Company. What started as a nanobrewery and pizza joint has now grown to three distinctive locations in and around downtown Raleigh. Trophy brews limited-edition IPAs, progressive rotating casks, and will soon expand its original location to add on a barrel-aged and sour program.

Can’t decide which brewery to visit? The Raleigh Beer Garden may be the place for you. Currently holding the Guinness World Record for the most different beers on tap (more than 350), there’s definitely something for everyone here. Even non beer drinkers feel at home in the Beer Garden’s Spiritual bar, where craft cocktails are on the menu.

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getaway Hip neighborhoods like the Warehouse District are popping up around downtown Raleigh. The red brick, industrial structures throughout the district reflect the city’s history. Though the buildings’ exteriors harken back to bygone days, the insides have been revitalized into innovative businesses, art galleries, nightspots, restaurants and more.

Visit the Raleigh Denim Workshop to witness jeans being handcrafted right in front of your eyes. Custom artisan garments, sold all over the United States, are produced in this storefront location.

Stroll over to the state’s only non-collecting contemporary art museum, CAM Raleigh.

The ever-changing exhibits at CAM showcase up-and-coming works in the art and design world.

Whether it’s planning a progressive dinner, sipping your way through the Raleigh Beer Trail, or hitting the museums and trendy neighborhoods, everyone can experience big-city entertainment with small-town appeal in Raleigh.

Raleigh Denim

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getaway

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home trends getaway “A vibe.” That seems to be the common refrain when describing Taylor. And with big brother Oxford exploding only a few miles away, Taylor is hardly under the radar anymore. If you go, book a room at Paige Evans’ chic bed and breakfast, the Taylor Inn, and plan to spend plenty of time there. The inn connects to the eclectic Big Truck Theatre, a combination barn-meets-Ryman-Auditorium type structure, which, like many other things in Taylor, may leave you scratching your head and saying, “This may be the coolest little town on the planet.”

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travel

Majestic

MAUI Story: Callie Ellis | Photos: Courtesy of Regency Travel, Inc.

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The Hawaiian islands are filled with amazing adventures and sites to explore. Both natural history and the Polynesian culture played important roles in the formation of the Aloha State. From a scientific standpoint, the archipelago located in the Pacific Ocean began when hot spots under the Earth’s crust created sea volcanoes that pushed lava upward towards the water’s surface, eventually forming a series of island masses. This is just one way to look at how these majestic island creations came to be.

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travel Fans of the Disney movie Moana may have heard that the islands arose from the ocean in another manner, however. In Polynesian mythology, Maui, a trickster and great cultural hero, created the Hawaiian islands by fishing them out of the sea with his magic hook while on an expedition with his brothers. Maui is also said to be responsible for catching the sun and slowing it down to allow more daylight time for those working on the islands.

Although hundreds of islands big and small make up Hawaii, visitors primarily flock to six of them: the “Big Island” of Hawaii, Oahu, Kauai, Molokai, Lanai and Maui.

Maui

The second largest island, Maui is approximately 727 square miles and has a population of only around 145,000. When comparing Maui to Oahu, which is around 597 square miles with a population of almost 1 million, it’s easy to see how much of this island is open for exploration.

Plentiful land and a fraction of the population create a blend of outdoor activities, resorts, shopping and dining, along with areas of total seclusion that beg visitors to immerse themselves in the breathtaking scenery. Known as “The Valley Isle,” Maui has been voted “Best Island in the United States” by Condé Nast Traveler readers for more than 20 years!Panathenaic Stadium 62 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • July 2019

travel The island’s different regions, West Maui, Central Maui, Upcountry Maui, South Maui and East Maui, each have unique characteristics and varied activities to offer. Most sites in Maui can be reached within a drive of less than two hours. The sunny west side is home to arguably the best sunsets, as well as a variety of shops and restaurants. Journey along the 35-mile-long Honoapiilani Highway and pass one spectacular resort after another.

Sunset on Kaanapali Beach

Close to this area you will find lots of families strolling along the Kaanapali Beachwalk. Kaanapali Beach is breathtaking with white powdery sand stretching for three miles. Expect to spot people taking surf lessons and parasailing.

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travel

Black Rock, a rocky peninsula and favorite snorkeling spot at the north end of the beach, is just a short distance from the resort community of Kapalua. Set between the West Maui mountains and the sea, it is best known for its secluded getaways and championship golf courses. The calm, sheltered coves are ideal for stand-up paddle surfing.

Black Rock

If you are visiting Maui by cruise, you’ll likely arrive a little to the north, in the historic seaside town of Lahaina, site of the cruise port. The oldest fishing village in Hawaii offers wonderful whale watching during the winter months. Just a five-minute drive from Lahaina, excellent shopping awaits at Whalers Village. If you are hungry, enjoy an ice cream cone or the famous Hawaiian shave ice!

Shave Ice

Iao Needle

Most visitors begin their vacation in the most central region of the island, where the Kahului Airport is located, along with much of the island’s population. Nearby attractions include Iao Valley State Park, a lush and peaceful area filled with forests and streams, as well as the famous Iao Needle. This 1200-foot peak was created by erosion of the softer rock around it over many millennia. Hiking in this area is easy and the trails are well marked. Explore Wailuku, not far away, to eat, shop, and visit a few historical sites.

Palace of Knossos

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El Cosmico

Want more shopping? No problem. Close by in the town of Kahului is Maui’s largest mall.

Travel a short distance east from this town to experience a unique ride on the winding Hana Highway—a journey unto itself.

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travel Mykonos Windmill

Tucked away from the island’s beaches is the upcountry region of Maui filled with volcanic soil, farms and paniolo (Hawaiian cowboys). For generations, this fertile land has grown taro and sweet potato crops. Now, it is also a popular area for Maui-made wine tastings and even goat dairy farming. Perhaps the most visited site of this region is Haleakala Peak. No words can describe how remarkable the sunrises are from the highest peak on the island. Watching the clouds roll over the scenic volcanic mountains keeps tours and crowds of people continuously coming, even if it means driving through most of the night to see.

The southwest coast of the island offers plenty more to explore. The Maui Ocean Center in Maalaea Bay is an aquarium experience like no other. Hold starfish in your hands and get up-close-and-personal among the turtles (Honu) at the lagoon. Enjoy an immersive 3D experience with the new Humpbacks of Hawaii interactive exhibit. The focus on the relationships between the people of Hawaii and its unique marine environment is what makes this one of the top 10 aquariums in the world.

Southern Maui faces the islands of Lanai, Molokini and Kahoolawe, which individually offer history and personalities of their own. This area is one of the sunniest parts of the island with miles and miles of romantic sandy beaches like “Big Beach” in Makena Beach State Park. Wailea spans 1,500 acres of land.

The beaches are laid out in golden crescents that border gentle waters. Many resorts in this area are self-contained mini-villages. Fabulous golf is another perk along the sun-drenched southern coast of Maui.

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Stone Bridge Road to Hana

Ending with a visit to Maui’s east side, the natural beauty of the island is truly breathtaking. One of the most popular activities in this region is driving or biking the picturesque Road to Hana.

The narrow, winding road is consumed by the jungle. Its 617 turns and more than 50 one-lane stone bridges define the journey, not to mention the endless views of plummeting sea cliffs, lush rainforests, buried pools and waterfalls cascading down and much more. Although the drive is around 50 miles, it is not one to be hurried. Allow at least three hours, or make a day out of the journey. With waterfalls to stop and admire, photo opportunities at every turn, and charming shops and stands selling local pineapple and famous banana bread, there is plenty to keep any traveler amazed and entertained!

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travel

Don’t miss the stunning Wailua Falls, and take the short detour to Pa’iloa Beach at Waianapanapa State Park, famous for its exotic black sand that was created when hot lava cooled quickly by the sea water.

Maui has a variety of resort accommodations surrounded by lush rainforests or nestled against pristine beaches along the coastline. From fine dining to casual fare, a variety of restaurants provide a perfect meal for every food craving. The flavors of authentic Hawaiian dishes and fusion cuisine invoke the history of each culture from which they originated. Today many restaurants are owned and operated by third- and fourth-generation family members. Expect to stand in line for amazing plate lunches offering home-style comfort foods using locally sourced organic ingredients. A few favorites include grilled mahi mahi, known as dolphin fish, Ahi Poke which is the Hawaiian version of marinated raw fish that is served in bite-sized cubes, and Kalua pork that has been roasted in a traditional underground pit. Save room for mouth-watering Maui desserts made with locally grown macadamia nuts and tropical fruit sauces.

Maui really has it all—the mountains, the sea and everything in between. Engage with the locals and witness the island culture; the Aloha spirit is contagious. Whether relaxing on the beach, hiking through rainforests, watching whales, surfing, snorkeling, golfing, shopping or just channeling your inner Mana (spiritual energy of power and strength), there are endless experiences to enjoy in Maui!

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When to visit: There is no bad time to visit Hawaii. Any time is perfect; you just need to find the perfect time for you.

Visiting During Summer: July is always the busiest month in Maui; families flock to the island when the kids are out of school. The summer months are also the warmest, with temperatures reaching the 90s. Surf is at its lowest during summer and the water averages 80˚F. Visiting During Fall: Autumn is a good time to explore the islands. The weather is beautiful, the water is calm and it is the perfect time to learn to surf. The kids have all gone back to school, which means fewer crowds.

Visiting During Spring: It’s the start of the dry season and the weather couldn’t be nicer. This is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the fragrant flowers the islands have to offer.

Visiting During Winter: There’s no better time to travel to the islands than when it is chilly in Memphis and the Mid South. Winter is also the best time for whale watching.

Mid-December is typically high season, though, which means travel and accommodations tend to cost more.

For more information on a vacation in Maui, call the travel advisors at REGENCY TRAVEL, INC., at 901.682.9065 or visit www.regencytravel.net.

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experience this

Let’s Go to the (Downtown) Movies Malco Powerhouse Cinema Grill

The movies have come back to Downtown Memphis. Live theatre, music and art have long been well represented down by the river, but since Muvico shut down, along with the rest of Peabody Place, in 2008, the cinema scene has been dead. That is, until March of this year, when the Malco Powerhouse Cinema Grill opened in the South Main District, a continuously growing and buzzing arts area just a stone’s throw from Beale Street.

Story: Alice Fugate Photos: courtesy of Anna Haley

Located at 45 G.E. Patterson between Main and Front streets, it’s the first Malco cinema to operate Downtown since 1976, making it 40 years since the Memphis-based, family-owned, and over 100-year-old franchise has had a presence there.

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experience this

The theater is following two popular local trends—multi-use entertainment spaces like Loflin Yard and Railgarten, and repurposed out-of-use buildings such as Crosstown Concourse. Set in a 1914 brick powerhouse, the site features both a restaurant and cinema. It took over three years to renovate the building, topped with a towering smokestack, a process that required approval from both the state Historic Preservation Office and the Federal Transit Administration.

The original structure’s foundation, brick exterior and smokestack have all been preserved, but the interior is decidedly of the moment, with an industrial aesthetic that pays homage to its origins. The main building houses the box office, lobby and restaurant. Malco officials believe that the decision to transform such a historic building into something new and usable affirms the company’s commitment to the historic South Main District, and indeed to all of Memphis, as the city continues to revitalize itself while preserving its history.

Powerhouse’s full-service restaurant includes a grill, bar and brick pizza oven, and caters to movie goers as well as those who just want a casual bite in a hip setting. It’s more like a restaurant with seven movie screens than a cinema with a cafe tacked onto it.

The cinema is state-of-the-art, with luxurious recliner seats and in-theater food delivery. Seating is reserved for all screens, including the one Malco is branding as an MXT “Extreme” experience, similar to IMAX. Like many other organizations in town, the Malco Powerhouse will not exist in a vacuum. A parking lot behind the theater has been and will continue to be the site of the Memphis Farmers Market on Saturday mornings. There is also talk of the theater showing a larger variety of film types than just the more commercial studio movies.

“We left Downtown Memphis over 40 years ago,” says David Tashie, senior vice president of operations for Malco. “We are very excited to be bringing the Powerhouse Cinema Grill to the historic South Main District. Our family has been in this business for over 100 years, and we’ve always embraced any new idea that enhances the movie-going experience for our patrons. We believe the Powerhouse amenities will add to the already fun and exciting experience of going out to the movies.”

With delivered food, brick-oven pizzas, luxury recliners and an IMAX-like screen option, the new Malco Powerhouse has upgraded the movie experience to be very exciting indeed.

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social

Southern Reins Jockeys & Juleps Derby Party Story: Jill Haag | Photography: Whitney McNeill

Rain couldn’t stop the PARTY OF THE YEAR as Southern Reins celebrated its fourth annual Jockeys & Juleps Derby Party in the heart of Collierville horse country on Sat., May 4.

Presented by FTB Advisors for the fourth year in a row, the event directly benefits program services that provide equine-assisted activities and therapies to support people throughout the Mid South who have disabilities and hardships.

The guest list topped 900 supporters who enjoyed music by The River Bluff Clan and a live broadcast of the most exciting two minutes in sports—the Kentucky Derby. Featuring a live auction, fine art auction and silent auction, as well as delightful Derby fare and Southern-style cuisine, this year's Jockeys & Juleps Derby Party was the best yet.

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social

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social

Charlene’s 35th Anniversary Party Story and photography: AHMMS

On Thursday evening, May 30, friends and family came from near and far to celebrate Charlene’s Colony of Shoppes’ 35th anniversary. Champagne, sweet treats and fellowship were enjoyed by all. Charlene’s is located in Halls, TN, and has become a popular day-trip destination for its tea room and fantastic shopping.

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social

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social

Haute Hostess Trunk Show Story and photography: Janna Herbison

At Home Memphis & Mid South recently hosted a trunk show in Germantown for “Haute Hostess” aprons’ founder and designer Elizabeth Scokin of Nashville. A former couture model, Elizabeth is a native of Arkansas who traveled the world for years modeling various high-end fashions. She was later inspired to develop her own line of designer aprons which have been worn by numerous celebrities from Oprah to the “Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.”

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social

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wedding social getaway

Andrea DeLeeuw Benjamin West August 25, 2018 Oxford, Mississippi Parents of the Bride:

Mrs.Fountain Yvette DeLeeuw; Mrs. Sandra & Mr. David DeLeeuw Forsyth Parents of the Groom: Mrs. Becky & Mr. Steve West 78 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • July 2019

getaway wedding social

SOURCES Rehearsal Invitations: The Dotted Line in Nashville Rehearsal Dinner: The Field Club at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium Rehearsal Catering: Chef Ryan Prewitt of PĂŞche in New Orleans Wedding: Saint Peter's Episcopal Church Reception: The Lyric Oxford Event Coordinator: Leigh Fox Photographer: Ann Marie Wyatt of Taylor Square Photography Florist: Deedra Stone Designs Wedding Rings: Mednikow Hair/Makeup: Julie Phillips Reid Entertainment: Musical Fantasy Caterer: Tallahatchie Gourmet Invitations: Soiree Signatures

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entertaining

To the

Grad!

Recipes: Courtesy of Margaret Monger

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entertaining

Summer is the season of parties. This graduation party held in May was thrown by proud parents of a physical therapy school graduate. All you need for a fun summer celebration is good food, and lots of it. Check out these EVENT DESIGN & TEXTgreat

BY GINNI PHOTOGRAPHY recipesJONES sure to make your party aBYhit!MADELINE VINER July 2019 • athomemms.com | 83

entertaining

The Menu

The host took many of her son's favorite foods and combined them to create a menu full of spice and flavor!

Bourbon Slush Crawfish Cardinale Dip Salted Potatoes with Herb Dip Gochujang Red Cabbage Slaw Pepper Jack Jalapeùo Sausage Assorted Cheeses and Chutneys 84 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • July 2019

entertaining

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entertaining entertaining

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Crawfish Cardinale (Serves 10-12 as an appetizer) 1 lb. Louisiana crawfish tails 8 Tbsp. unsalted butter, divided 1 bunch green onions, chopped 3 Tbsp. all-purpose flour 1 Tbsp. tomato paste ½ pint half and half ¼ cup white wine 2 Tbsp. chopped fresh parsley ½ tsp. salt ½ tsp. white pepper ¼ tsp. cayenne pepper Saute’ crawfish in 4 tablespoons butter for 10 minutes and set aside. In remaining butter, saute’ onions for 10 minutes, then add flour and tomato paste and blend well. Add half and half, wine, parsley, crawfish, salt and peppers.

Continue cooking 5 minutes.

Serve in chafing dish with toasted bread rounds or crackers

Salted Potatoes with Herbed Dip (Serves 10-12 as an appetizer) 4 pounds small round or fingerling potatoes 2 ¼ cups salt Put potatoes, 8 cups of water and salt in a large pot. Cover and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to medium and simmer until potatoes are fork tender.

Drain potatoes and place on paper towels to dry so that some of the salt crystalizes.

Herbed Dip 16 oz. container of sour cream 3 Tbsp. Mrs. Dash regular seasoning Juice of 1 lemon Combine together and let sit in refrigerator overnight.

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entertaining entertaining

Bourbon Slush 1 12-oz. can frozen lemonade concentrate 1 12-oz. can frozen orange juice concentrate 12 oz. pineapple juice concentrate 4 cups bourbon 6 cups water 1 cup sugar 4 cups strong, hot tea Dissolve sugar in hot tea and combine with other ingredients. Freeze until slushy (about 6-8 hours).

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entertaining dining out

Gochujang Red Cabbage Slaw

Dressing

Slaw

3 Tbsp. gochujang red chili paste

6 cups thinly sliced red cabbage

4 Tbsp. olive oil

¾ cup fresh mint leaves, coarsely chopped ½ cup salted cashews, coarsely chopped 1 chopped apple, any variety

Zest of ½ a lime plus 3½ Tbsp. lime juice

Directions Mix well and combine with cabbage and mint. Chill for an hour and toss with chopped cashews when ready to serve.

2 Tbsp. honey 1 tsp. grated peeled ginger 1 tsp. lemongrass, chopped

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dining out getaway

New Look, New Menu Sweet Grass – Cooper Young

Story: Alicia Dean Photos: courtesy of Sweet Grass

Ryan Trimm opened Sweet Grass in 2010 in the Cooper Young neighborhood of Midtown Memphis. The restaurant’s roots reach to Charleston, South Carolina, where Trimm attended culinary school. He wanted to bring low-country cuisine to Memphis and Sweet Grass was the vessel.

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dining out El Cosmico Since opening his first restaurant, Trimm has successfully started several new ventures, including the more casual sister to Sweet Grass – Next Door, Sunrise Memphis, 117 Prime and most recently 3rd & Court Diner, located inside the Hotel Indigo downtown.

The eateries are part of Across The Board Restaurant Group, formed in 2017 when the chef joined forces with Craig Blondis and Roger Sapp, founders of Central BBQ. The trio has been busy and has no plans to stop any time soon.

A recent renovation of Sweet Grass served not only to brighten up the interior; the menu also got a facelift with the addition of a variety of tapas. Trimm and crew put their own Southern twist on the small dishes indigenous to Spain. He recommends one as an appetizer or combining several to create a meal.

New selections include squash flan with feta and shoestring fries, a pan-seared sea scallop with pickled squash ribbons, tarragon and mushroom broth, and lump crab cakes with horseradish tartar sauce.

One menu favorite, the Tonkatsu Pork Sandos, was inspired by a hostess who worked at Sweet Grass for several years. This delicious dish features crisp pork loin, spicy mustard, white bread and cabbage.

Amid all the new, customers will still find dishes that have kept regulars coming back to Sweet Grass year after year, including Trimm’s shrimp and grits, General Tso’s cauliflower and beef carpaccio.

Menu prices range from $3-13 for small plates to $13-19 for medium plates; larger entrees are priced from $29-41.

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in the kitchen

Bacon, Tomato Gruyere

Tart

I can’t count the number of times I’ve made this delicious appetizer! It’s definitely going to become a favorite “go-to” for you when guests are coming.

Ingredients • 1 puff pastry sheet • 1 ½ cups grated Gruyere cheese • 3 slices cooked and crumbled applewood-smoked bacon • 3 thinly sliced Roma tomatoes • 2 tsp. fresh thyme leaves • ½ tsp. salt • ½ tsp. pepper • 1 egg, lightly beaten • Fresh parsley for garnish 94 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • July 2019

Recipe and Photo: Jim Norton

Instructions Preheat oven to 400˚. Thaw puff pastry and roll out to about a 10” x 14” rectangle.

Transfer pastry to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Sprinkle pastry with Gruyere, remembering to leave about a 1-inch border around the entire pastry. Layer three rows of thinly sliced tomatoes on top of the cheese. Sprinkle the top of the tomatoes with crumbled bacon, thyme, salt and pepper. (You can also sprinkle the top with a little Gruyere if you have any left over.) Fold the edges of the pastry up, overlapping a little portion of the tomatoes around the edge. Using a small knife, cut vents into the pastry. Brush the folded edge with the beaten egg. Bake for 40 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley to garnish.

Allow to cool 3-5 minutes to make cutting easier. Enjoy!

Check out Jim Norton on social media! www.thenortonrecipe.com Facebook @thenortonrecipe Instagram @the_norton_recipe July 2019 • athomemms.com | 95

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SOURCES 16 | HEALTHY YOU

Special thanks - Michelle Johns mjohns@transformingwellness.com

26 | AT HOME WITH

Special thanks - Judy McLellan judymac.com

30 | HOME FEATURE

Special thanks - Frances and Mike Smith

42 | DESIGN

Special thanks - Lamp Shade House lshmemphis.com

48 | IN THE GARDEN

Special thanks - Dale Skaggs of Dixon Gallery and Gardens Dixon.org

70 | EXPERIENCE THIS

Special thanks - Malco Powerhouse Cinema Grill & Bar 901.350.5975

92 | DINING OUT

Special thanks - Sweet Grass sweetgrassmemphis.com

94 | IN THE KITCHEN

Special thanks - Jim Norton thenortonrecipe.com

98 | ON A GOOD NOTE

Special thanks - Camp Good Grief and Baptist Memorial Health Care baptistgriefcenters.org

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on a good note

Finding the Good in Grief

Story: Terri Glazer | Photos: courtesy of Camp Good Grief

C

arefree days at camp are a beloved part of summer for many children, but about 40 young Mid Southerners had a camp experience last month that included more than swimming, playing outdoors and making crafts. They attended Camp Good Grief, where they combined all the fun of summer with activities designed to help them cope with the death of a loved one.

Operated by Baptist Memorial Health Care since 1999, the camp is exclusively for kids ages six to 12 who have experienced the loss of a close relative.

According to Angela Hamblen Kelly, executive director of the Kemmons Wilson Family Center for Good Grief, camp not only allows them to express their feelings, it also gives them the assurance that they are not alone.

Says Kelly, “Oftentimes in their classroom, they may be the only one [who has experienced a loss], but at grief camp, we’re all there together. We start on the first day acknowledging that we have a common bond, and then we do a lot of hard work, but we also have a lot of fun.”

Teenagers will have a weekend grief camp experience designed just for them in October. “We know that children and teens grieve differently,” Kelly explains.

Camp Good Grief is designed to enhance the counseling grieving children and teens receive throughout the year at Baptist’s three area grief centers, the Wilson Center on the campus of Baptist Hospital in Collierville, Milla’s House at the Junior League Community Resource Center in Midtown, and the NEA Baptist Center for Good Grief in Jonesboro, AR. Both the children’s day camp and the teen weekend are free of charge, but the cost to attend is about $1,500 per camper, Kelly says, stressing the importance of raising funds and securing material donations like art supplies, as well as recruiting volunteers so that families don’t have to bear the financial expense of healing from a loss.

The Camp Good Grief 5K and one-mile walk, set for 2 p.m. on Sun., Oct. 6, is a fun way to support the program. The family-focused event will include kids’ activities, food and drinks and more. For more information or to register, go to campgoodgrief5k.racesonline.com.

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Kelly says volunteering to be a “buddy” for a Camp Good Grief child can be life-changing for both the camper and the adult. After going through a rigorous screening process and training in children’s or adolescent grief, buddies accompany campers throughout the experience. “A buddy is there to be an assigned friend to their child, not a therapist.

They’re not there to do grief work, but we make sure that everyone who is at camp has a very strong understanding of children’s grief so that we are all taking care of our kids within our model of care,” she says. Although the 2019 session of Camp Good Grief is over, Kelly is already seeking buddies for next year.

With a planned expansion of the Collierville location, Baptist will be able to offer more camp experiences, so the need for volunteers will increase exponentially.

The director sings the praises of the volunteers who make Camp Good Grief a success year after year.

“We have the most incredible volunteers. We have people from every walk of life and profession from within our Mid South area and they just give so much.

From a clinical perspective, our staff is amazing and do great work, but the volunteers are some of the greatest people—they take off work to do this! I think it’s also important to note that some of them are former campers. Since Camp Good Grief has been around for so long, we have volunteers who are former campers who are out of college now. Some of them are in college and they come home simply to come back to Camp Good Grief. I think that’s such an important part of our model; teaching our children and families to definitely work on their grief and themselves, but also challenging them to help others. We’re seeing that so beautifully from our kids coming back to volunteer.”

For more information on Camp Good Grief, to find out about grief support services for children and adults, or to make a donation go to baptistgriefcenters.org or call 901.861.5656.

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100 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • July 2019