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As March arrives, it brings with it a sense of renewal and hope. The hope of no more ice in the Mid South area is real. The days grow longer, the air is filled with the promise of spring, and everything seems to awaken with new energy. It is a time for fresh starts and embracing new beginnings.
In the middle of Fern’s visit in January, I had planned a reunion with the girls with whom I graduated from high school. We were all going to meet in Natchez, MS, where we grew up. When the ice storm hit, I was determined I would not cancel; I was getting there no matter what. Trip had to put blankets down for me to get to my car, and there was a bit of slipping and sliding, but I made it. It was one of the most amazing weekends I can remember. Although a few girls didn’t make it, I am pretty sure we will make it an annual event and a priority on my list to attend.
We all turned 60 last year, and some of us haven’t talked in ages, but we picked right back up like we were teenagers again. We giggled, remembering skipping school, visiting the drive-through daiquiri barn in our Catholic schoolgirl uniforms, and still being served! We all wondered how we got away with a fraction of the shenanigans in which we participated. Where were our parents? We all thanked God we did not have social media! We laughed and cried and were reminded of the special moments we have shared in the past.
We also wished we had been there more for each other in the years after school. Babies were born, but we missed watching them grow. Through divorces and health scares we were not there for each other. We were all so busy with our own lives that we temporarily forgot each other. That weekend made us realize that we don’t have as much time as we once did, and it is going to go by fast. We sang, danced and laughed about our aching and changing bodies. We ate cake, calorie-loaded dips, and had mimosas for breakfast with no regrets. Most importantly, we all realized how much we missed each other and vowed we would never drift apart again.
Spring brings new life and new growth, even with old friendships. There is something truly wonderful about reconnecting with old friends—those with whom we have laughed, grown and weathered life’s changes. Just as the earth will be renewed from the wrath of Fern, we too renewed our friendship. It is never too late to pick back up with lost friendships. Let’s welcome March with open arms and make the most of every opportunity it brings. Let’s cherish our memories and create new ones. Time is ticking, so don’t forget to sing, dance and always eat the cake.
- Margaret Monger, PUBLISHER
A Meeting of Minds
STORY BY TERRI GLAZER | DESIGN BY MAGGIE CLARKE INTERIORS
BUILT BY MURPHY CUSTOM HOMES | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROSS GROUP CREATIVE
Althoughthis recently completed home is the first project on which Michael Murphy and Maggie Clarke have collaborated, the homebuilder and designer are already big fans of each other’s work. The two teamed up to create the house for the Fall 2025 Vesta Home Show last November in Collierville’s Hidden Creek neighborhood.
Murphy had a vision for the exterior elevation. He teamed with Ed Yendrek, key principal of Classic Home Designs, to draw the plans. Then Murphy and Clarke, along with her team at Maggie Clarke Interiors, went to work making a great layout even better. “We got into the details as the plans took shape—the stairs, the arches, the different room sizes and the extras,” says Murphy.
Rather than the open-concept design that has been popular in residential architecture for quite some time, Murphy and Clarke agreed that this house should have more enclosed spaces. To achieve that vision, they created cased openings to provide some separation on the main floor. Graceful arches now mark the transition points from the foyer into the main living room and the dining room. Murphy notes that the arches define the spaces artistically. “With the open stairwell and the large windows in the entry, no matter where you’re standing, it creates a nice framed image.”
Clarke
furnished the living room with comfortable pieces in a light palette and added a twist, a must for a show home. “It had to be a showstopper. I wanted people to walk in the front door and see it immediately,” she says of the custom Charles Stewart bench she covered in Kravet tiger print. Schumacher bullion fringe trim added even more oomph to the piece.
Originally specified as windows, full-length folding glass doors now line the back wall, providing picturesque views and complete access to the outdoor room with its soaring vaulted ceiling and the beautiful backyard landscaped by Gurley’s Azalea Garden.
“We wanted this additional living area because most houses these days don’t have one,” says Murphy of the cozy nook off the living room. “We intentionally created this as a flexible space designed to evolve with the homeowner’s needs. It could have been an office, a sun room or a little library.” He credits Clarke and her operations manager Amanda Montgomery for creating the charming spot perfect for reading, conversation or a hand of cards. The cheerful robin’s egg blue on the walls and trim reappears throughout the house, part of an intentional color theme. Says Clarke, “Always a big concern of ours is that we want the color story to make sense. In a show house like this, even if we take all of our furniture out, we want it to flow well; it doesn’t have to match and all be the same, but it has to make sense.”
On the opposite side of the living room the kitchen is a case study in the designer’s mix-and-match philosophy. Clarke chose Sherwin Williams Sandbar for the majority of the cabinetry, then added a builtin china cabinet and hutch in stained oak. She also mixed metals for the plumbing and lighting fixtures, selecting her two favorite finishes, unlacquered brass and polished nickel. “It feels a little bit unexpected, like you didn’t just go to a showroom and pick out all one thing,” she says.
TheThe dining room is a gem of a space that proves color is back in 2026.
Traditional molding creates paneled walls, yet the wall, trim and ceiling color is a chartreuse that feels completely fresh. An antique dining table and sideboard suggest formality, but white Villa & House bamboo-motif chairs and geometric lamps on the buffet tip the mood back toward youthfulness.
The powder room is another vote in favor of maximalism. Clarke says its dramatic Lee Jofa Woodland wallpaper was one of the first selections she made for the project, and its colors set a precedent for the rest of the home. A wide marble countertop with embellished backsplash and bullnose detail makes an elegant statement, as do the gold pediment mirror and flanking sconces with custom shades.
Even the home’s more utilitarian spaces, the scullery, laundry room and rear entry landing area, feel elevated. Clarke credits Murphy’s unwillingness to leave details unattended to and his talented trim carpenter for spending the time and effort to make every square inch of the house the best it could possibly be. Meanwhile, Murphy admits that without a creative design team on board, the finished product would not have looked the same.
Tucked
into an out-of-the-way corner of the first floor, the primary suite is a private and relaxing space with just a touch of whimsy. White walls accented by Sandbarcolored trim set a crisp palette for furnishings that exude interest with an eclectic mix of color and pattern. The custom bed, crafted by Jeremy Elkins of ELKINScustomfurniture, looks sophisticated in lavender with white Greek key trim. Clarke paired Biscuit Home’s Bloomsbury Green linens, plus a couple of striking accents—a wide bolster pillow in deep purple velvet, and a pair of chrome stools upholstered in animal print at the foot of the bed.
Art from Sheet Cake Gallery in downtown Memphis punches up the walls here and throughout the house. Clarke turned to gallery owner Lauren Kennedy to provide contemporary works by Southern regional artists during the Vesta show.
The primary bath is another example of Clarke’s ability to effortlessly combine traditional and modern elements and Murphy’s commitment to quality construction and finishes. Marble on the checkerboard floors and throughout the oversized shower looks classic and updated at once. Warm brown cabinetry and a soaking tub with a contemporary shape feel right at home in the space. The his-and-hers closets are masterpieces conceived by organization guru Clare Richardson of Trazo Design, elevated by more masterful woodwork by Aviles Construction.
The home holds three more bedrooms, each with an attached bath and a distinct character. The downstairs guest suite welcomes visitors with a stylish chartreuse velvet bed zhuzhed up by a pair of magenta dot accent pillows. Mahogany Hepplewhite nightstands, an antelope rug and a fun cluster bubble chandelier illustrate the concept that diverse elements can create a cohesive look when collected by a designer with an artist’s eye.
For the home show, the creative team envisioned one of the upstairs bedrooms for a teenage girl and the other for twin boys. The girl’s room features colorful Charlotte Gaisford wallpaper. The British line’s funky designs are among Clarke’s favorites. The platform bed’s angles reflect the paper’s chinoiserie theme, while more of the type of traditional antique pieces found throughout the home provide a gracious and timeless feel. Anchored by a pair of full-size beds upholstered in a handsome Tartan wool flannel, the boys’ room conveys the feel of a classic English lodge. Murphy marvels at how Clarke’s designs transformed both the spaces. “The upstairs bedrooms are thoughtfully scaled and well-proportioned,” says Murphy. “But when you have a great designer on board, you’re able to walk in and experience something entirely different. You can see it in the details. The trim and the walls and the baseboards may be classic and restrained, but the paint colors, the wallpaper and the way everything comes together are what truly set these rooms apart."
All three of the extra bedrooms’ adjacent baths include timehonored elements with a bit of a modern twist. “I try to go for things that will stay around,” says Clarke, explaining her decision to use tried-and-true materials like basketweave, hexagon and penny tiles, as well as carrara marble. Customary, but not boring. She combined the conventional with interesting accents that speak to the way families live today.
Along with a cleverly placed study area at the top of the stairs where a closet was originally drawn, the upstairs TV room was created with kids in mind. With a built-in platform that holds a queen bed, the space is perfect for sleepovers, yet features an elevated design that doesn’t only appeal to a younger crowd. Drenched ceiling-to-floor in Sherwin Williams Taiga, a moody gray-green, the space is perfect for watching movies on the large television engineered by Miestro Home Automation Services. A relaxed sectional provides enough room for all the friends or the whole family to gather in cozy comfort.
From entryway to bonus room, this home is the product of a successful collaboration by two stars in Mid South construction and design. It’s evident that Maggie Clarke and Michael Murphy recognized each other’s talents and combined them to produce an outstanding home built and furnished to stand the test of time beautifully.
PHOTOGRAPHER: MADELINE ROSE PHOTOGRAPHY INVITATIONS: FLOURISH PAPER
FLORIST: TWISTED TWIG
BAKER: BREMMA'S BAND: 901 HEAVY HITTERS
RENTALS: MAGNOLIA RENTALS
THE SEASON MEMPHIS HAS BEEN WAITING FOR
BY OLIVIA WALL, DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS, MEMPHIS BOTANIC GARDEN
This is the spring you clear your calendar for.
The kind where you pack a picnic, text the group chat, and say, “Meet me at the Garden.” The kind where the air smells faintly floral, your camera roll fills up before you reach the first path, and your little ones miraculously forget about their screens.
This year, spring has an address: the corner of Park and Cherry.
From March through May, the Memphis Botanic Garden unveils BLOOM: A Million Shades of Spring, a seasonlong exhibition featuring more than one million blooms across its 96 acres.
Yes, one million. Not a metaphor. Not marketing math. A true riot of color.
And just across the street, the Dixon Gallery & Gardens adds its own sweeping tulip displays, transforming this stretch of Memphis into one of the most spectacular dual-garden spring destinations in the country. Two gardens. One corner. A city in full bloom.
If you’ve been waiting for a reason to host visitors, plan a date, gather your girlfriends or simply step outside and feel something hopeful, this is it.
A SEASON TOLD IN CHAPTERS
BLOOM unfolds in three distinct chapters.
First: Cherry Blossoms. A soft, Sakurainspired beginning. Pale pink clouds hover over winding paths. Families
spread blankets beneath flowering trees. It’s the inhale of spring after a long, gray winter.
Then: The Tulip Showcase. Bold swaths of fuchsia, coral, ivory and blush sweep across beds and borders. It’s not subtle; it’s spring roaring to life in unapologetic color.
Finally: Southern Delights. Azaleas, hydrangeas, magnolias, irises, roses—the full flourish of late spring in the Mid South. The palette deepens; the textures thicken; the season matures.
No two weeks look the same—that’s the point.
SATURDAYS, REIMAGINED
Every Saturday from March through May, the Garden turns seasonal beauty into a full-day experience.
BLOOM Saturdays blend live performances (most at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.), children’s activities, food trucks and a full bar. Come for an hour; stay for the afternoon. March leans into Japanese-inspired programming with cultural traditions, taiko drumming, guided tours of the Japanese Garden, and the beloved Cherry Blossom Picnic.
April and May usher in performances from the symphony and ballet, local artists, a petfriendly day and plenty of open space for kids to roam while adults linger a little longer.
AFTER-HOURS, ELEVATED
For those who prefer their petals with a side of prosecco, the 21+ lineup delivers.
Sips of Spring (March 22) is a hands-on mixology workshop, led by Hunter Coleman, celebrating floral flavors and garden-inspired cocktails. You’ll craft three drinks and leave with recipes, and perhaps a new signature pour.
Then comes Tulips at Twilight (April 3). Guests stroll among the tulips at sunset, sip a welcome cocktail and settle in as a live string quartet plays in the midst of a luminous installation by Infinity Stairs. It feels indulgent in the best way—a perfect reason to dress up and linger a little longer.
Sip & Stroll returns the first Thursday of each month April through October, featuring guided garden walks paired with themed cocktails or mocktails. Tulips one month, tropical plants the next. A Halloween Herb Garden finale awaits the committed.
And because beauty is best when you make it yourself, Flower Happy Hour workshops invite guests to arrange blooms under the guidance of some of Memphis’ favorite florists. Each session is different and no two arrangements will be alike.
GARDEN PARTIES AND GOOD LIVING
Mark your calendar for Petals & Parasols on May 3. Think Regency-inspired garden party meets Southern hospitality: styled tablescapes from local garden clubs; floral fashion installations; live music. Guests vote for their favorites. Upgrade to the Rose of the Ball VIP experience if you prefer your garden party with reserved seating, cocktails and a botanical keepsake to take home.
For those who prefer a guided overview, Spring Tram Tours run Wednesdays through Saturdays, offering 20-minute highlights of peak blooms; a perfect pre-lunch detour.
On the second Tuesdays of April through June, and again September through October, the Garden hosts its signature Food Truck Garden Parties with live music, lawn games, good eats, a fully stocked bar and dog-friendly vibes.
LEARN SOMETHING. GROW SOMETHING.
Spring makes gardeners of us all, and the Garden meets you where you are.
Sunday Garden Club covers pruning, roses, pollinators, heat-hardy plantings and tree identification. Come as you are and leave with a deeper shade of green thumb.
Plant Parties invite adults to create kokedama, terraria and seasonal planters. Hands-on, creative, perfect for a girls’ night out or a date night that feels less predictable.
And then there’s the Spring Plant Sale (April 15-18), complete with a 21+ preview party, memberonly hours, and expert advice from horticulturists. Expect natives, pollinator favorites, edibles, houseplants and the sort of impulse buys you’ll defend passionately all summer.
A MOMENT FOR MEMPHIS
This isn’t just a Garden event. It’s a city moment.
With nearly one million tulips between the two gardens, Memphis becomes something rare: a true spring destination. When out-of-town guests ask where to go, you’ll know exactly what to say. Start at the Garden. Wander. Cross the street. Make a day of it, because this isn’t just about flowers, it’s about seeing your city dressed up and realizing it’s always had this in it.
In a season that often rushes by with school calendars, sports schedules and social commitments, BLOOM insists on something radical. Pause. Walk the path. Sit on the bench. Let your children get grass stains. Sip the cocktail. Buy the plant. Take the photo. Then put the phone away.
For three months, Memphis becomes the prettiest place in the room. Spring does not linger, though. It arrives in waves of color, it dazzles, it softens, then it slips quietly into summer.
The good news? You have three months. Three months of open skies and overflowing color, live music under the trees, cocktails at twilight, children racing ahead on the path. Time to gather your people and do something that feels effortless and extraordinary.
You can book a flight, or you can turn onto Cherry Road. Memphis is in bloom. Meet it there.
SOUTH AFRICA: A JOURNEY THAT STAYS WITH YOU-AND IS MEANT TO BE SHARED
ARTICLE AND PICTURES PROVIDED BY BARBARA MAY,
OWNER OF TRAVEL LEADERS
SOME destinations are checked off a list. Others quietly settle into your memory, returning in unexpected moments long after you’ve unpacked your bags. South Africa belongs to the latter.
Vast yet deeply personal, adventurous yet effortlessly refined, it offers a rare balance of wildlife, culture, scenery and sophistication. For luxury travelers, couples and families alike, South Africa is not just a place to visit, it’s a journey to experience together; one that invites connection, curiosity and shared wonder at every turn.
From private safaris and cosmopolitan cities to rolling vineyards, dramatic coastlines and tranquil river cruises, South Africa reveals itself layer by layer. Each experience feels distinct yet connected, encouraging travelers to slow down, lean in and truly savor the moments that matter most.
SAFARI REIMAGINED: LUXURY, CONNECTION AND THE WILD
A South African safari is far more than wildlife viewing; it’s an immersive story unfolding in real time. In iconic regions such as Kruger National Park, Sabi Sands and Madikwe Game Reserve, luxury lodges elevate the experience with elegant accommodations, inspired cuisine and expert guides whose passion and insight bring the bush vividly to life.
Mornings begin with the distant call of birds and the thrill of spotting wildlife at sunrise. Days unfold through private game drives where every sighting feels intimate and unhurried. Evenings are shared over candlelit dinners beneath vast, star-filled skies. For families, safaris become moments of discovery. Watching children’s excitement at seeing their first elephant or learning firsthand about conservation efforts creates memories that linger long after the journey ends. For couples, the quiet magic of the wilderness offers space to reconnect, reflect and simply be present together.
AMAWATERWAYS AFRICAN SAFARIS AND WILDLIFE CRUISES: EFFORTLESS DISCOVERY
For travelers who value thoughtful design, seamless planning and elevated comfort, AmaWaterways’ African Safaris and Wildlife Cruises provide a beautifully curated way to explore Southern Africa. These journeys blend luxury river cruising with land-based safaris and city stays, allowing guests to experience multiple regions without the constant packing and logistics.
One of the most memorable moments is the Chobe River wildlife cruise, where elephants wade along the shoreline, hippos surface nearby and vibrant birdlife fills the sky—all viewed from the comfort of a luxury vessel. It’s a perspective that feels both thrilling and serene, ideal for couples seeking romance and families wanting a relaxed yet immersive wildlife experience. With expertly selected accommodations, guided excursions and attentive service throughout, AmaWaterways allows travelers to fully surrender to the journey itself.
CAPE TOWN: WHERE BEAUTY, CULTURE AND ENERGY CONVERGE
Consistently ranked among the world’s most beautiful cities, Cape Town captivates with its dramatic setting and vibrant soul. Framed by the iconic Table Mountain, the city weaves together historic neighborhoods, pristine beaches and a dynamic culinary and arts scene.
Days might include cable car rides to sweeping viewpoints, private food and art tours or leisurely afternoons spent at stylish cafes. Evenings glow with sunset cruises along the Atlantic coastline or candlelit dinners overlooking the sea. Families delight in visits to Boulders Beach to see its famous African penguins, while travelers of every age are inspired by the city’s effortless blend of nature and modern sophistication.
Boulders Beach in Cape Town
THE CAPE PENINSULA: WHERE THE JOURNEY SLOWS
Just beyond the city, the Cape Peninsula unfolds in a series of dramatic coastal vistas, rugged cliffs and windswept beauty. A scenic drive toward Cape Point reveals the spot where oceans meet, while quiet beaches, seaside villages and relaxed coastal dining create moments that feel both grounding and indulgent. It’s a place where the road itself becomes part of the experience.
THE WINELANDS: TIMELESS ELEGANCE AND EASY INDULGENCE
A short drive from Cape Town, the Winelands offer a gentle shift in pace. Rolling vineyards, historic estates and mountain-framed valleys define towns like Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl. Here, time slows naturally.
Days are filled with private tastings, gourmet dining and unhurried afternoons overlooking the vines. Evenings invite long conversations and shared laughter. Spacious estates and welcoming atmospheres make the region just as appealing for families as it is for couples seeking quiet romance and refined indulgence.
THE GARDEN ROUTE: NATURE AT A GENTLE RHYTHM
Stretching along South Africa’s southern coast, the Garden Route offers one of the country’s most visually captivating journeys. From Mossel Bay to Storms River, landscapes transition seamlessly from ancient forests and tranquil lagoons to dramatic coastlines and charming seaside towns like Knysna and Plettenberg Bay.
Perfect for families, the Garden Route blends natural beauty with accessible adventure—guided hikes through protected parks, wildlife sanctuaries offering close-up encounters, and calm kayaking experiences along winding waterways. Evenings are spent relaxing in boutique lodges and luxury retreats where comfort, warmth and thoughtful design ensure the experience feels restorative as well as enriching.
Paarl Winelands
THE DRAKENSBERG: SOUTH AFRICA’S MAJESTIC HIGH COUNTRY
Rising dramatically about 200 miles from Johannesburg, the Drakensberg Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a striking contrast to South Africa’s coastal and safari regions. Towering basalt cliffs, cascading waterfalls and sweeping valleys create one of the country’s most aweinspiring landscapes.
Guided hikes lead to panoramic viewpoints, ancient rock art and secluded valleys, while evenings return travelers to refined lodges that blend luxury with a deep sense of place. Misty mornings, scenic picnics and wide-open spaces invite quiet reflection. For families, the region offers gentle trails and meaningful time outdoors; for couples, it provides rare stillness and connection.
Drakensberg Mountains
JOHANNESBURG: THE PULSE OF THE NATION
Johannesburg is one of the largest cities on the continent and South Africa’s financial capital, and a stopover point for most visitors travelling in or out of Southern Africa. Many head straight out of town for a safari, but don’t make that mistake. Two days are enough to take in some of its rich and tumultuous history, fantastic art, culture and the developing foodie scene.
Guided visits to the Apartheid Museum and Soweto provide essential insight into South Africa’s past and present, while contemporary art galleries, innovative dining and vibrant neighborhoods reveal a city defined by resilience, creativity and forward momentum.
WHEN TO GO: FINDING THE PERFECT SEASON
South Africa’s year-round appeal allows travelers to tailor their journey to their interests. Wildlife enthusiasts favor May through September, when dry winter conditions make game viewing exceptional. November through March brings warm, sunny days ideal for Cape Town, the Winelands and coastal exploration. For those seeking balance, April and October offer pleasant weather, smaller crowds and seamless opportunities to combine safari adventures with city and wine country experiences.
Average Temperatures
• Summer (Nov–Mar): 75-85°F
• Autumn (Apr–May): 65-75°F
• Winter (Jun–Aug): 60-70°F
• Spring (Sep–Oct): 65-75°F
Johannesburg
Cape Peninsula
A JOURNEY WORTH DOING RIGHT
South Africa is not meant to be rushed. Its magic lies in the harmony between adventure and rest, discovery and indulgence, excitement and reflection. Whether drifting along the Chobe River on an AmaWaterways Wildlife Cruise, hiking the breathtaking Drakensberg, or sharing a private safari with those you love, each moment feels deeply personal and profoundly memorable.
A destination this layered deserves thoughtful planning. With expert guidance and carefully curated experiences, South Africa becomes more than a trip; a shared story you’ll carry with you long after the return home.
Are you ready to experience South Africa for yourself where luxury safaris, breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities and unforgettable moments come together in one extraordinary journey? Travel Leaders Collierville brings this remarkable destination to life with custom-designed South Africa itineraries tailored to your travel style. From private safaris and exclusive lodge stays to Cape Town escapes, Winelands indulgences, and seamless journeys featuring AmaWaterways African Safaris and Wildlife Cruises, every detail is thoughtfully curated.
For more information or to schedule an appointment at Travel Leaders’ new location (1125 Poplar View Lane South, Suite 3, Collierville, TN 38017) call 901.853.6200.
Kruger National Park
Cape Town
Awawaterways Safari Cruise
Jalapeño Popper Spaghetti Squash
JALAPEÑO POPPER SPAGHETTI SQUASH
Spring is here, and my Jalapeño Popper Spaghetti Squash is the recipe you’ll crave. The creamy, savory flavors paired with the light and fluffy spaghetti squash is a combination you will come back to again and again. Enjoy it on its own, straight from the squash, or pair it with your favorite main dish for a crowd-pleasing side.
INGREDIENTS
1 LARGE SPAGHETTI SQUASH
1 JALAPEÑO PEPPER
10 STRIPS COOKED BACON
1 CUP SHREDDED CHEDDAR CHEESE
½ BLOCK CREAM CHEESE, SOFTENED
½ CUP SOUR CREAM
1 BUNCH GREEN ONIONS
SALT, PEPPER, GARLIC POWDER AND YOUR FAVORITE PAPRIKA SPICE BLEND
INSTRUCTIONS
Preheat the oven to 400°F. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle spaghetti squash halves with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place the spaghetti squash face down on a baking sheet and roast for 30 minutes, or until fork-tender. While the squash is cooking, prepare the jalapeño popper mixture by removing the seeds from the jalapeño and finely dicing it, finely chopping the green onions and roughly chopping the cooked bacon. In a bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, cheddar cheese, bacon, jalapeño, green onions, and all seasonings. Reserve a little bit of bacon, green onions, and cheddar cheese for topping. Once the squash is done, fluff the insides with a fork. Then add the jalapeño popper mixture to each half and mix until creamy and evenly combined. Top with the reserved cheese and bacon and put it back in the oven for another 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted. Finish with extra bacon, green onions and cheese. Best served warm, enjoyed straight from the squash with a fork!
Made by Molly is my little corner for sharing recipes, moments and meals that feel like home. Follow along for food that’s never boring.
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SPRING IS COMING!
Thewet,cold air has turned cool and crisp, and daylight is extending past 5:30 p.m. Though we often reorient our focus in January with intentions of restructuring our lives with new goals and habits, March naturally invites such changes. As our minds and bodies adapt to the rhythm of the seasonal change, this is the time to redefine habits and style our lives with things that make us feel more connected.
The lengthening of days isn't just a calendar fact, it’s a biological event. Light penetrates our eyes not only to help us see but sends signals to our brain that affect
our hormones, our energy and our mood. The kind of light we get and when we get it matters more than most of us realize.
Our eyes have distinct cells whose only job is to read the rhythm of light and dark. These cells send information into two separate brain pathways. One pathway affects how we think and learn; the other affects how we feel. When the light patterns are in sync with our body’s design our internal systems work best. Most people report feeling more positivity, interest and energy in spring than any other season.
Some people feel the seasonal shift from winter to spring more intensely than others, especially those who are attuned to their emotions. If you notice the pull to get outside or be more engaged it’s not just in your head. Being intentional with the way you participate in the shift that is happening makes a difference in how your body and mind respond to the changes. There is a difference between something happening to you and making something happen for you!
Morning light is bright and bluelight dominant. Blue light wakes our brains and tells our body it is time to be alert. Evening light is red-light dominant, warmer and softer. It signals the brain that it is time to wind down. Most of us miss the morning light and flood ourselves with blue screen light at night. We are creating chaos in the brain and body; working against our own design. Arranging your schedule to work with the rhythm of light is foundational to your ability
to achieve goals and live habits that optimize your life. Three daily habits that make a huge difference are:
• Morn ing light on your face before your phone: take a 10-minute walk in the first hour of morning light.
• E vening light: take a 10-minute walk at dusk.
• T urn off all screens, including TVs, two hours before bed.
Take note of how these simple habits affect your overall ability to feel more energetic, engaged and positive.
Your body is your home! God has given you all you need to live a connected, engaged and peaceful life. All you have to do is work with what’s already built into you. It’s like the parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30); you have to invest what you have been given.
Michelle R. Johns, Owner MA, LPC-MHSP, NCC, 500 CYT Transforming Wellness, LLC Germantown, TN & Oxford, MS www.transforming-wellness.com 901.258.3619
Brain AwarenessInjuryMonth
YOUR PATH TO RECOVERY
March is Brain Injury Awareness Month, a time to recognize a condition often referred to as a “silent epidemic,” because many brain injuries show no outward signs to the casual observer. While movies often portray people waking from a brain injury or coma and immediately returning to normal life, the reality is far more complex. A brain injury can affect an individual and their loved ones through a long and challenging recovery process.
Even in mild cases such as concussion, people may experience chronic headaches, visual disturbances, sensitivity to light and sound, and an increased risk for additional injury. More severe brain injuries can lead to personality changes, difficulty speaking or understanding language, impairments in movement and memory, and sometimes a lack of awareness about one’s own impairments. Brain injuries can result from slips and falls, oxygen deprivation, car accidents, strokes and many other incidents. Any of these can cause damage requiring immediate, and often life-saving, medical intervention.
There is no place better equipped to support individuals after such life-altering injuries than Regional One Health. The physicians, nurses and therapists are highly trained and understand that every person, and every injury, is unique. When a patient becomes medically stable, their journey is not over; in many ways, it is just beginning.
The Regional One Health Inpatient Rehabilitation Hospital is staffed by expert nurses, therapists and physicians who provide individualized treatment and education to ensure the best possible outcomes. Many team members are Certified Brain Injury Specialists, and several therapists have also earned Certified Stroke Rehabilitation Specialist credentials.
TEXT BY DUNCAN MONGER, DPT; REGIONAL ONE HEALTH INPATIENT REHAB THERAPY MANAGER
Savannah Seeley, DPT Meliah Grant, SLP
The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) is a globally recognized accreditation agency that sets and maintains quality standards for rehabilitation hospitals. The Regional One Health Inpatient Rehabilitation Hospital is proud to have accreditation from CARF in the following areas: Brain Injury Specialty, Spinal Cord Injury Specialty, Stroke Specialty, and General Rehabilitation Program. This recognition reflects the dedication Regional One Health's staff brings to helping patients and families gain the tools they need to return home safely and confidently.
Recovery doesn’t end at discharge. Regional One Health provides ongoing support through two outpatient therapy clinics; one located at 842 Jefferson Avenue Main Campus and another at 6555 Quince Road on the East Campus. Two Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) physicians support patients in the acute setting, inpatient rehab and outpatient clinic. Patients can continue receiving skilled therapy while also scheduling followup visits with PM&R physicians for new or ongoing concerns. When appropriate, they can also receive treatments such as Botox injections for spasticity that may interfere with daily life.
Regional One Health offers the full continuum of care the community needs following lifealtering injuries such as brain injury or stroke. If you or someone you know has suffered a brain injury, you want them to receive the best care possible, and Regional One Health's team is ready to guide them every step of the way on the road to recovery. We are here for patients on their hardest days, helping them work toward their best days.
Inpatient Rehabilitation Hospital 880 Madison Ave., 901.545.7464 Center for Rehabilitative Medicine: East Campus 6555 Quince Road, 901.515.5900
Outpatient Main Campus 842 Jefferson Ave., 901.545.6877
REGIONAL ONE HEALTH INPATIENT REHABILITATION HOSPITAL STAFF
MARCH 2026 SOURCES
HOME FEATURE
Special ThanksMaggie Clarke Interiors maggieclarkeinteriors.com
Murphy Custom Homes buildmurphy.com Ross Group Creative rossgroupcreative.com
TRAVEL
Special ThanksTravel Leaders 901.853.6200
IN THE GARDEN
Special ThanksMemphis Botanic Garden Membg.org
HEALTHY YOU
Special ThanksMichelle Johns mjohns@transformingwellness.com
IN THE KITCHEN
Special ThanksMade by Molly @__madebymolly
ON A GOOD NOTE
Special ThanksMemphis Youth Athletics memphisyouthathletics.org
MYA City Summer Program
Memphis Youth Athletics (MYA) City Summer Program is a pillar of community, health and wellness, and track and field. For four weeks during June and July, 150 children between the ages of eight and 15 participate in activities and learning opportunities designed to create healthy habits with every run, jump and throw. Participants build friendships, develop new skills and experience the joy of play in a safe, supportive environment designed to help every child get the most out of the program. MYA hopes to expand the camp to 300 participants in the coming years.
Campers meet five days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Days include breakfast, lunch, two snacks, fitness instruction, team-building activities, nutrition education, track instruction, guest speakers from Olympians to community leaders, and field trips. Past excursions have visited Stax Museum of American Soul Music, the National Civil Rights Museum, Memphis Rox, a University of Memphis campus tour, Shelby Farms and Licherman Nature Center.
Since its founding in 2014, Memphis Youth Athletics has grown to serve more than 3,000 students annually from over 70 schools across 70+ Zip Codes in the Mid South with high-quality, year-round programming. By managing, supporting and funding youth track and field, cross country and running programs, MYA provides studentathletes—particularly those in under-resourced communities like North and South Memphis—with consistent access to coaching, competition and mentorship. Student athletes are exposed to a learning adventure that combines math, reading, nutrition and character development, supported by community partners such as the University of Memphis College of Health Sciences, Christian Brothers High School, and Memphis parks. HOKA and Smith & Nephew are corporate sponsors.
Current camp director Kaleb Smith started as a volunteer and counselor and has been involved with MYA for six years. Smith says MYA City Summer Program brings different backgrounds of kids into one community where they can become friends. “Our goal is to give the future of Memphis more opportunities to be healthier,” he says. Kelley Grusin is the vice president of MYA and the liaison between MYA and Smith & Nephew.
“We show a day in the life of the development engineer,” Grusin says. “We offer activities for them to participate in such as mock surgeries, including dressing up in surgical gear, and we show them opportunities they might have as they get older."
Former counselor and director Chris Bell started working for MYA City Summer Program in 2023. “It was nice seeing how the kids interacted with each other and the progress the kids have throughout the summer,” Bell says. “I saw a lot of growth. The relationships build throughout the summer among the kids and the staff.”
MYA removes financial barriers for participants from underresourced neighborhoods to ensure that every child has access to safe, structured exercise and positive mentorship. By offering free enrollment to families in need, the City Summer Program reflects MYA’s commitment to equity, inclusion and expanding opportunities for all children in the Memphis area.
Since its inception in 2021, MYA has raised over $150,000 to offset City Summer Program costs and scholarships for campers from 22 Zip Codes across Memphis. The program has provided over 3,600 meals, 75 program scholarships and 15 internships to local high school student athletes, as well as guest speakers, educational field trips and a STEM day with Smith & Nephew.
MYA invites local students to be part of the 2026 MYA City Summer Program—an inspiring summer experience where young athletes grow on and off the track. In 2026, the camp is expanding into a larger facility at the University of Memphis, increasing capacity and creating even more opportunities to serve youth across the community. For more information or to register, scan the QR code.
