May 2021

HOME FEATURE:

ENTERTAINING:

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

26 | HOME FEAT U R E

60 | E NT E R T A INING

Lindsey Black Interiors masterfully brings Kayla and Nick Arcuri’s vision to life in their Jackson, TN home.

Ginni Jones styles a luxury lunch at the nursery, perfect for any spring soriée!

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

MAY 2021 home & design 26 HOME FEATURE Trusting the Vision

60 ENTERTAINING

Celebrating Spring with Lunch in the Nursery

for you

42 WEDDING

Mr. & Mrs. Jack Oliver

52 GIFT GUIDE Mother's Day

76 HEALTHY YOU

The Power of Parenting

78 HEALTHY YOU

Transforming Wellness

90 ON A GOOD NOTE

Merge Memphis

food & travel 82 IN THE KITCHEN

Chopped Salad Tower with Lemon and Basil Dressing

in every issue

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14 PUBLISHER'S NOTE

89 SOURCES

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MAY 2021 • VOL. 20 NO. 2 PUBLISHER / EDITORIAL DIRECTOR MARGARET MONGER | mmonger@athomemms.com

MANAGING EDITOR AUBREY ANN MONGER | aamonger@athomemms.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER GINNI JONES | gjones@athomemms.com

COPY EDITOR TERRI GLAZER

IMAGING COLOR MANAGEMENT CHARLES REYNOLDS | cr@colorretouching.com

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

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE CHRIS PUGH | chrisapugh@gmail.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE GAIL HARRELL | gharrell@athomemms.com

REGIONAL MARKETING JANA FITE HERBISON | jfherbison@gmail.com

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

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

HOW TO REACH US 320 SOUTH WALNUT BEND, SUITE 11 CORDOVA, TN 38018 | 901.684.4155 ATHOMEMMS.COM At Home Memphis & Mid South doesn't accept unsolicited manuscripts. To inquire about freelance opportunities, send a letter, resume and three writing samples to—Editor, At Home Memphis & Mid South: 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. @athomemagazine

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PUBLISHER'S

Note

It’s May! This always seems to be a month that’s packed with activities. From Derby parties to Mother’s Day (shout out to all the amazing moms out there!) to school year-end celebrations, our calendars are crammed full of happy events.

One much-anticipated occasion that usually rolls around every May (COVID notwithstanding) is graduation. Whether it’s preschool or PhD, a graduation is a time to celebrate accomplishments and mark milestones. Graduations often have an element of sadness sprinkled in, as the graduates realize it’s “the end” of an era. Friends they’ve seen daily head to new schools or into the “real world” for their first job; they also say goodbye to the routine and security of a campus and teachers they know and love.

But have you ever looked at the program for a graduation? More likely than not it won’t have the word “graduation” printed at the top. Instead you’ll probably see “commencement exercises.” I like that. This isn’t the end...it’s the beginning!

The dictionary defines commencement as a beginning or start and I like to think of graduation as the start. Of a new adventure. Of more learning. Of making new friendships. Of using all the knowledge you’ve acquired to start making your way in the world.

In 2021, more than ever, a fresh beginning is so welcome. After the past year and the havoc the pandemic has wreaked, it feels like we’re on the brink of a new phase. Even though that new era may consist of merely getting back to our old (normal) ways of being, I couldn’t be more excited about it. So go ahead and dig out that old cap and gown, put them on and celebrate. Happy Commencement, everyone!

—Margaret Monger, PUBLISHER

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H O M E F E AT U R E

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H O M E F E AT U R E

STORY TERRI GLAZER DESIGN LINDSEY BLACK INTERIORS PHOTOS S É L AV I E P H OTO G R A P H Y May 2021 • athomemms.com | 27

H O M E F E AT U R E

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H O M E F E AT U R E

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hen Kayla and Nick Arcuri bought their Jackson, TN, home they knew they’d need to do some major decorating. Being cultured, educated people, they set out to find the perfect furnishings for their new abode on their own.

After a series of missteps and a lot of stress, the couple found themselves completely frustrated. “I was having difficulty picking things that made sense,” Kayla recalls. “We brought home several items and none of them worked for the house. It was driving us up the wall!” With a baby, a toddler and two careers, the busy couple decided it was time to call in a professional.

So they started their search for help using social media, a resource that might seem a bit

unconventional to some. But, as interior designer Lindsey Black puts it, “I’m not your mother’s decorator.” The owner of Memphis-based Lindsey Black Interiors says many of her clients find her through her Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook posts.

Once the clients and designer connected, plans began to make the home beautiful and functional and to customize it to fit the Arcuris’ unique needs.

Built in the mid 90s, the brick Georgian received a major modernization from its previous owners. The result is an open-concept living area that includes the entryway, living room, dining room and kitchen. Black says her task was to bring color and interest into the wide-open spaces and make them feel polished yet still homey and practical for a family with children and dogs. She describes her design aesthetic for the project as “modern mix.”

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o achieve the look Black started in the living room, a cavernous area with soaring ceilings with clerestory windows flanking a fireplace. She cozied up the space by removing oversized white built-in cabinets, the kind used to house large stereo equipment in the era in which the home was built, and adding scaleddown natural wood shelves in their place. A custom painting by New Orleans artist Sarah Ella Cole tops the mantel, helping to define boundaries. After visually reducing the area to a more manageable size, Black filled it with comfortable upholstered pieces in neutral tones. Performance fabrics prevent worries over spills and other child-related mishaps. A pair of armchairs brought from the Arcuris’ previous home blends in seamlessly and two Noir Furniture coffee tables echo the natural wood look of the shelves. “Because the room is so big, I wanted to use two coffee tables. That way every seat in the room has access to a spot,” she explains. Their separated placement keeps the tables from looking too heavy and their natural construction makes them match, but not match,” she adds.

Two nondescript ceiling fans that formerly hung in the living room didn’t do the space justice. In their place Black chose a Visual Comfort modern chandelier that is part light fixture, part work of art. Says the designer, “I knew that whatever we put there had to be large in scale—that’s a huge vertical space—and really unique and impactful.

I love how sculptural it is and also that it’s uplighting so it’s not harsh when it’s turned on.

The adjacent dining room also packs a visual punch thanks to one starring piece and several supporting design elements curated by Black.

A huge custom cabinet built by Byler Craft in Whiteville, TN, lines one wall, anchoring the space beautifully and providing a worthy home for Nick’s extensive bourbon collection.

Coordinating heron prints on the room’s back wall bring a dramatic element. Black and her project manager Mary Katherine Harris sourced the prints from market in High Point, NC, on one of their semi-annual buying trips. The art was so striking they knew they’d find the perfect spot for it in a client’s home eventually, and the Arcuris are the happy recipients. Kayla says they are among her favorite parts of Black’s design.

“They just fill me with joy when I look at them.”

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H O M E F E AT U R E

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ntertaining will be a priority for the homeowners in the post-pandemic era, so they told Black they wanted a dining table that would comfortably seat 10. She delivered with a simple double-pedestal design surrounded by eight neutral side chairs and a pair of end chairs upholstered in fabrics that add interest and a nod to mid-century modern. To provide ample lighting over the expansive table Black chose two black and white chandeliers. They fit the bill perfectly, shedding plenty of light without overpowering the room’s other features.

The Arcuris were happy with the clean, white-on-white look of their kitchen, but a seemingly small design element Black added makes a big splash. The large kitchen window looked a bit bare so the designer brought in a Roman shade in a John Derian Designers Guild fabric that adds a pop of color to the kitchen. The textile also inspired Black’s accessory choices for the living room. She repeated the stunning bird print on throw pillows and pulled from its tones for other accents.

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HO OM MEE FFEEAT ATU URREE H

“Function is very important to me. I try to weigh form and function equally. If you put enough thought into it, you can always find something that checks both those boxes.”

—Designer Lindsey Black

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H O M E F E AT U R E

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H O M E F E AT U R E

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hile bright white walls make the rest of the house feel light and airy, the master bedroom is a soothing cocoon of saturated color. Black selected grasscloth wallpaper in a deep slate blue to bring texture and tone to the space. “The clients like color, but because every other room is essentially connected and was white, the bedroom was the logical spot to bring it in, to have a really bold moment on the walls,” she explains.

Custom drapes in a Thibaut leaf print set a light/dark palette that’s repeated in the furniture, bedding and rug. Palacek rattan and rope sconces, another treasure sourced from High Point, bring an additional natural material into play. Black says she’s a big fan of the lights for more than just their good looks: not only do the wall-mounted sconces free up space on nightstands, their height is infinitely adjustable thanks to the knotted rope design.

Kayla couldn’t be happier with the dramatic tone of her master bedroom. “I feel like when I get into bed at night I am so cozy and relaxed. It’s just such a nice place to be.”

As much as she loves the bedroom, the homeowner is also thrilled with the way the whole project turned out. Black agrees that the project was a rousing success and attributes that to the fact that the clients were willing to totally hand the design reins over to a professional. She says, “They really trusted my vision. Even when they were initially a little on the fence about something they made the decision to trust me. I think the projects that turn out the best are always the ones where the client isn’t over analyzing every little detail.

They have to remember that’s why they hired me, to know how it’s going to work together, and trust that the end result is going to be amazing. They did an excellent job of that.”

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H O M E F E AT U R E

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H O M E F E AT U R E

“Our big three must-haves were function—something we could live in—a nice dining room we could entertain in, and a place for the bourbon to live and be celebrated.”

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WEDDING

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Taylor Anderton & Jack Oliver D EC E M B E R 19, 2020 | M E M P H I S, T N

Parents of the Bride: Scott & Dedra Anderton Parents of the Groom: Van & Debbie Oliver

WEDDING & RECEPTION: ANNESDALE MANSION EVENT PLANNER: LA CHERIE WEDDINGS FLORIST: JOHN MARK ENTERPRISES PHOTOGRAPHER: LINDSEY FISHER PHOTOGRAPHY ENTERTAINMENT: DEEPBLU ENTERTAINMENT BAKER: THE CAKESMITH CATERER: ME & MY TEAROOM WEDDING DRESS: MAGGIE LOUISE BRIDAL MAKEUP: MCLAINE CRAIG OF HALO SALON RENTALS: CLAYTON PRODUC TIONS

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top five tips for gift giving TEXT AND PHOTOS BY SISSY’S LOG CABIN

It's May, which

means graduations, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and an abundance of other celebrations are upon us. Gift-giving, especially good gift-giving, can be a challenge. The gifting experts at Sissy’s Log Cabin have put together their top five tips for finding the perfect gift for a loved one for a birthday, anniversary, holiday or “just because.”

1. KNOW YOUR RECIPIENT While it may seem obvious, choosing a perfect gift starts with knowing the person who will be receiving it. For example, a stylish businessman will certainly appreciate a classic timepiece, like this one from Tag Heuer, while a more rugged, practical type may treasure the gift of a William Henry knife. Of course there are exceptions with every individual, but knowing the recipient’s daily tasks and hobbies is always a good place to start when searching for gift ideas.

2. GIVE UNIQUELY Try to find a unique gift that is both meaningful and special to your recipient. Estate jewelry pieces such as brooches, bracelets and pendants are a timeless option, especially for the classic or vintage-inspired woman. At Sissy’s Log Cabin, we have a wide selection of styles and designers in jewelry, timepieces and other gifts. With so many options available, you’re sure to find something extraordinary to give.

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3. BE SINCERE Keep in mind, the main goal of giving a gift is to show you care for the recipient. A distinct way to show love is through specially chosen jewelry that can be worn and cherished for decades.

From stunning diamond earrings to subtle gold necklaces, we can help you find the most heartwarming gift.

4. STAY ON BUDGET Before you shop for the perfect gift, have an idea of your budget. When shopping at Sissy’s Log Cabin, ask about our in-house financing options.

We can work with any budget, so don’t hesitate to ask a sales associate next time you stop by.

Stackable pieces like this Caviar bracelet by LAGOS make a trendy and affordable gift option.

5. IF ALL ELSE FAILS, ASK FOR HELP If you’re still struggling to find the perfect gift, our trained sales associates and award-winning jewelers are happy to help you find a worthy gift or start the process of designing a custom piece.

If your loved one frequents Sissy’s Log Cabin, they may have a wish list pre-selected, so you can be sure to purchase something they’ll love.

Ready to find the perfect gifts for every occasion? Browse our selection of jewelry, timepieces and more at Sissy’s Log Cabin in Memphis or online at SissysLogCabin.com.

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GIFT GUIDE

Mother’s Day Wine & Bites Sampler Box $40 Century Farm Winery | Jackson, TN centuryfarmwinery.com

Crystal Bud Vases, $50-90 Cotton Row Uniques | Memphis, TN | cottonrowuniques.com 52 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • May 2021

Rifle Paper Company Hydrangea Cream Cups, $31 and up Ultimate Gifts | Southaven, MS | 662.349.2717

Fragonard Fragrance Soleil, $58 Magnolia House | Southaven, MS | magnoliahouse.com

Lagos Caviar Lux Diamond Cuff, $2,000 Sissy’s Log Cabin | Memphis, TN sissyslogcabin.com

Mother's Day

GIFT GUIDE 2 0 21

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GIFT GUIDE

Lagos Love Knot Necklace, $250 Sissy’s Log Cabin | Memphis, TN | sissyslogcabin.com

Raincoat $220 and Poncho $195 Social | Memphis, TN | social-memphis.com

Diffuser, Small $56.50, Large $74 Truffle Pig | Collierville, TN | shoptrufflepig.com

Rippe Cache Pot, $325 Warehouse 67 | Germantown, TN | warehouse67design.com 54 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • May 2021

Vietri Rainbow Champagne Coupes, Set of 4, $60 Two Doors Down | Germantown, TN | 901.385.3115

Mother's Day

GIFT GUIDE 2 0 21

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GIFT GUIDE

Beaded Purses, Wristlets and Coin Purses $56-$240 Cotton Row Uniques | Memphis, TN | cottonrowuniques.com

B’s Knees Fragrance Co. Eliza Scent Candles, $35-70 John Mark Enterprises | Germantown, TN | 901.310.4840

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14k Yellow Gold Stackable Bracelets, call for pricing Platinum Jewelers | Memphis, TN | 901.680.0020

Crislu Tennis Bracelet, $163 Magnolia House | Southaven, MS | magnoliahouse.com

Angels in Our Midst Coffee Table Book, $70 Warehouse 67 | Germantown, TN warehouse67design.com

Mother's Day

GIFT GUIDE 2 0 21

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E N T E R TA I N I N G

STORY GINNI JONES EVENT DESIGN GINNI JONES PHOTOGRAPHY ANNABELLA CHARLES 60 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • May 2021

E N T E R TA I N I N G

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E N T E R TA I N I N G

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the scene Since outdoor festivities are just now starting to happen again — how about lunch in the nursery at Millstone? Everyone needs a little fresh air these days so the nursery and greenhouse were the perfect location for this luncheon.

Overflowing with green and blooming plants, it was a stunning backdrop to set the scene.

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E N T E R TA TA IINNIINNGG

S T Y L I N G & S TO R Y G I N N I J O N E S

T H E D E T A I L S | VENUE MILLSTONE MARKET & NURSERY | WARDROBE OAK HALL | DINNERWARE HEREND GLASSWARE ESTELLE COLORED GLASS | LINENS & FURNISHINGS WHITE DOOR EVENTS

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E N T E R TA I N I N G

the setting The table was set with all the best. From a beautiful mix of hand-painted HEREND china to pastel mint and blush martini glasses by ESTELLE COLORED GLASS, the table was nothing short of spring soiree ready! But the real star of the show was the centerpiece, the silver Milan three-tier display from WHITE DOOR EVENTS, filled with lush green and blooming plants in aged terra cotta pots from the nursery. Tricia Hunt, owner of MILLSTONE MARKETPLACE, even provided some of her fresh-cut tulips to top off the lush spring look. Above the centerpiece, Patra and Hera Pendants chandeliers from White Door brought the vignette to full scale, completing the feast for the eyes to go along with the delicious meal. The pendants added a beautiful mix of natural woven and aged metal materials. Not to be missed from the tablescape were White Door ’s adorable Dina mini lamps—cordless yet powerful, providing enough light to highlight the table. Table linens and chairs were also sourced from White Door. The Faux Bois chairs provided the perfect touch of garden chic to sit in while being surrounded by the greenhouse plants.

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E N T E R TA I N N II N NGG

S T Y L I N G & S TO R Y G I N N I J O N E S

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E N T E R TA I N I N G

the setting In addition to the gorgeous table, a lovely lounge section gave guests a spot to relax while enjoying desserts. The light blue and corals of the Tristan sofa and Persimmon dot pillows were the perfect addition to all the green around the venue. White and ivory velvet Neely chairs, paired with teal dot pillows, gave the perfect vibrant pop, balancing out all the colors involved. And last, but certainly not least, the power of accent tables: no lounge section is complete without them. The gold Bali side tables and Berlin coffee table brought a much-needed metallic shine to the scene.

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E N T E R TA TA IINNIINNGG

S T Y L I N G & S TO R Y G I N N I J O N E S

T H E D E T A I L S | PASTRIES 17 BERKSHIRE | WARDROBE OAK HALL | DINNERWARE HEREND & LAURA PARK DESIGNS | GLASSWARE ESTELLE COLORED GLASS | LINENS & FURNISHINGS WHITE DOOR EVENTS

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E N T E R TA I N II N N GG

the sweets 17 BERKSHIRE’S new spring menu was perfect for the lunch. The mix of all the springtime flavors owner Nuha Abuduhair creates is magic! To-die-for desserts included Lemon Lavender Entremet, layers of soft lemon cake with lavender creme, topped with a candied lemon wedge and a lavender macaron; Hummingbird Cake, sweet spice cake layered with cream cheese mousse with white chocolate ganache; the Grapefruit Rose Tart, a delicate grapefruit curd infused with a touch of rose water; the Rosie, rose water mousse with a tart raspberry center; Opera Cake, joconde soaked in espresso and layered with chocolate ganache and espresso buttercream; and finally, the Bavarian Eclair, a vanilla bean cream stuffed eclair, simple and delicious. For the dessert table, LAURA PARK DESIGNS paper plates and cocktail napkins in the brightest patterns added a fun accent.

These new designer paper plates and matching napkins make any picnic more extravagant and beautiful.

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the style After over a year without events & dressing to the nines, now every occasion calls for a fresh, new outfit S T -Y and L I N Gthis & luncheon S TO R Y G Iwas NNI JONES no exception! Oak Hall was the perfect stop for all things Spring. Whether it was a flirty maxi dress or bright spring top, their women’s department was overflowing with an array of bright colorful options to start off Spring on the right foot. Also available at Oak Hall is the local handbag line J. LOWERY, their new spring collection has just hit the shelves and is sure to be a sell out! All your favorite bags, in fresh pastel colors and textures - feathers were even spotted, how fun!

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E N T E R TA I N II N N GG

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H E A LT H Y Y O U

The Power of Parenting STORY MICHELLE JOHNS

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

being

a parent and grandparent is the best part of my life. Though children do not come with owner’s manuals, I have discovered and continue to discover perfection is finding peace in the imperfections. As families continue to generate life and legacies, our family stories and histories evolve. I am grateful for the many ways my family continues to grow, develop and evolve. This article is intended to acknowledge both the gifts and challenges of parenting in hopes of encouraging a better future for current and future generations.

May and June are the months we celebrate mothers and fathers. Whether you are a parent or not, you are a product of your parents.

Whether you knew your parents well or not at all, they played a significant role in your development as a human. Parents are the most influential people in our lives. It is from them that we inherit our legacy burdens and gifts.

Of course, we develop many of our own gifts and talents as nurture and nature both play significant roles in our development. Our parents nurture our life experiences and shape our perceptions. Parenting, like life, is a course of yin and yang experiences, of good and bad.

As a practicing mental health counselor in Tennessee (TLPC-MHSP), I spend a lot of time with clients seeking to understand their present challenges and life experiences. Most feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, depression, communication challenges, insecurity, fear and uncertainty (to name a few) are directly related to childhood experiences. While the 76 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • May 2021

degree of childhood adversity is broad, it plays a noteworthy part in adult life.

One of the greatest contributions we make to ourselves as adults is to recognize and accept both the burdens and the gifts we acquired from our parents. It’s easy to acknowledge the gifts, but often we are met with internal guilt when we consider the burdens. It’s often guilt and the desire to avoid reliving childhood wounds that prevent us from exploring greater possibilities and hold us hostage to passing on legacies that might otherwise free us and our children for generations to come.

I wonder, if we give ourselves permission to recognize our legacies and stories in a judgement-free and guiltless manner, how much healing and self-connection might occur to make room for greater communal association in all aspects of our lives. With the help of therapy, I have been freed and have helped others find freedom to heal from childhood wounds in a way that allows them to achieve stronger relationships with their parents, siblings, friends and peers.

It’s worth the time and effort to understand childhood wounds and free ourselves through acceptance and forgiveness. It is also essential that we express gratitude and joy for the talents and gifts of love we received from our parents.

Without evaluation of our own history, we are certain to continue some level of a cycle we intend to break. Often, we continue the cycle in a different manner but convince ourselves we are doing things differently.

H E A LT H Y Y O U

As children we are caught up in our experiences and often fail to recognize that our parents are products of their life experiences; thus, we learn to live with them on the terms they create. Often, we are convinced our children are much better off than we were because of our improved way of parenting.

There is hope and opportunity regardless of our stage of life. In fact, my 72-year-old father and I have conversations about the challenges and joys of my childhood on occasion. I have been relieved of hurt and celebrated success with him through the words “I am sorry” and “I love you.” Additionally, I have had the same sort of conversations with my children in hopes of healing their childhood wounds and rejoicing in the positive achievements that have resulted in their adult successes.

MY FAVORITE RESOURCES INCLUDE:

WALKING THE TIGER BY PETER LEVINE

SELF-THERAPY: A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO CREATING WHOLENESS AND HEALING YOUR INNER CHILD USING IFS BY JAY EARLEY

**If your family has a history of trauma, please seek the help of a professional counselor to guide you through the journey of healing and connection.

As you consider the joys of parenting this Mother and Father’s Day season, celebrate with reflection and honor your legacy gifts. If need be, make space for relieving legacy burdens. Allow healing for yourself as a parent by exploring your history, including your beliefs and values. Make peace with your parents, living or deceased. Make space for your children to openly share their challenges and successes with you.

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H E A LT H Y Y O U

Transforming Wellness Corporate Wellness and Yoga Programs

T

ransforming Wellness corporate wellness and yoga programs empower individual and interpersonal growth for people seeking clarity and connection in their personal, professional and social life. All programs are mindfulness-based with an emphasis on connecting the physical, emotional, intellectual and spiritual aspects of human beings. Built on the principle of honoring each person as a biological individual with unique needs, gifts and talents, Transforming Wellness yoga and wellness programs intend for you to discover your own path of growth and development with compassion, confidence, connection, creativity, calmness and courage.

The yoga boutique is fully equipped with everything you need to participate in class. You only need to show up prepared to experience time with yourself, for yourself, through mindful movement and breath. All levels of experience are welcome as each class is led in a manner to meet you where you are physically, emotionally and cognitively.

Trauma informed yoga is for women seeking healing from traumatic life events. The format is a five-class series. Class size is limited to five participants and registration is closed once the first class begins.

Corporate wellness programs include half-day programs and lunchtime series. Wellness programs focus on movement, intentional eating and mindfulness to promote healthy lifestyles. Programs are offered via Zoom and in person.

STORY MICHELLE JOHNS

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

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PHOTOS JULIE SONG

H E A LT H Y Y O U

For additional information, visit www.transformingwellness.com or call 901.206.4006.

Transforming Wellness, LLC is owned and operated by Michelle Johns, MA, LPC-MHSP, NCC, Yoga Alliance 200 E-RYT/500RYT.

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IN THE KITCHEN

Chopped Salad Tower with Lemon and Basil Dressing I don’t know about you, but I’m a big lover of salads. I thought I would share a new favorite with you this month. This chopped salad has all kinds of goodies in it, not to mention the absolutely delicious lemon basil dressing. I have made this for a couple of my recent dinner parties and guests are loving it. Hope you’ll try it!

RECIPE & PHOTO JIM NORTON

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IN THE KITCHEN

DRESSING:

10 oz. colorful petite snacking tomatoes (cut in

16 oz. sour cream

half and use for garnish around the plate)

Juice from one lemon (3 Tbsp.)

Crispy fried onions

1 tsp. garlic powder ½ tsp. pepper

Add all the above ingredients except the

½ tsp. salt

tomatoes and fried onions to a large bowl. Toss

¼ cup fresh basil, julienned

to combine. Before serving, add dressing and toss to fully incorporate.

Add the above ingredients to a small bowl.

Stir to combine. Set aside or refrigerate until

TO P L AT E : Cut both ends off a regular can (a soup can for

needed.

example) with a can opener (or use what you

SALAD:

choose to create the tower). This will be the

1 large head of iceberg lettuce, chopped

mold for the tower. On a salad plate, using a

8 oz. baby Bella mushrooms, chopped

large spoon, spoon salad mixture into the can

5.6-oz. jar pitted green olives, chopped

until you reach the desired amount. Using that

12-oz. jar marinated artichoke hearts, chopped

spoon, push the salad firmly into the can to

14-oz. can hearts of palm, rinsed and chopped

compact the ingredients, causing the salad to

3 hard boiled eggs, chopped

keep the tower shape. Top with fried onions,

6 slices cooked bacon, chopped

tap with a spoon, then slowly and gently

2 packed cups baby spinach, chopped

remove the can. Place halved tomatoes around

½ small red onion, thinly sliced

the plate for garnish and enjoy! (Can also be

½ cup packed crumbled blue cheese

served like a regular salad without the tower.)

thenortonrecipe.com Facebook @thenortonrecipe Instagram @thejimnorton

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ON A GOOD NOTE

TEXT AND PHOTO COURTESY OF SHERRY MCCLURE

Merge

Memphis obtained its nonprofit status in 2015 and immediately began working with the local homeless community, providing meals in shelters across the Mid South and creating relationships. Merge started building free food pantries in 2016 with eight spread across Memphis and Desoto County, in food desert areas, with volunteers filling them weekly. These pantries have fed over 3,800 families since their establishment.

When the organization’s cofounders, Keith and Sherry McClure, found that women on the streets of our community had very few places to find shelter they began to work toward providing those needs. Fast forward to June 2020, in the middle of a COVID-19 pandemic, Merge Memphis opened a 28-bed women’s shelter called Clare’s House. The facility is located in the North Memphis ZIP Code 38108, the fourth poorest ZIP Code in Tennessee, and exists simply to serve and to provide the basic needs of food, clothing and shelter

to the most vulnerable underserved group in the area, homeinsecure women.

Merge Memphis has partnered with Hospitality Hub, Room in the Inn, Catholic Charities and MIFA to help provide short and longer shelter stays for women. Refuge Memphis, UTHSC Occupational Therapy Department, and volunteers are on site, teaching Clare’s House residents coping skills, money management and other helpful topics. Since it opened, Clare’s House has sheltered over 84 women, assisted 12 with employment and 10 with housing.

With support from Juice Plus, Pinnacle Bank and several other businesses and individuals, Merge Memphis has constructed vertical hydroponic gardens that provide fresh fruits and vegetables for the shelter’s residents as well as the surrounding community.

TO LEARN MORE OR TO GET INVOLVED VISIT WWW.MERGEMEMPHIS.ORG.

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May 2021 HO M E F E AT U R E Special Thanks Lindsey Black Interiors lindseyblackinteriors.com Sélavie Photography selaviephoto.com

ENTERTAINING Special Thanks Ginni Jones ginnijones1@gmail.com Annabella Charles annabellacharles.com White Door Events whitedoorevents.com Millstone Market & Nursery @millstonenursery Estelle Colored Glass estellecoloredglass.com Herend China herendusa.com Laura Park Designs lauraparkdesigns.com 17 Berkshire 17berkshire.com Oak Hall oakhall.com

IN THE KITCHEN Special Thanks Jim Norton thenortonrecipe.com

HEALTHY YOU Special Thanks Michelle Johns mjohns@transformingwellness.com

ON A GOOD NOTE Special Thanks Merge Memphis mergememphis.org May 2021 • athomemms.com | 89

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