Lindsey Black fills her clients’ newly constructed house with mostly new furnishings combined with family treasures and a sprinkling of vintage and antique finds to create a cohesive look that’s a fresh take on traditional.
38 | GETAWAY
Whether visitors are fans of HGTV hit series “Home Town” or simply seeking a Southern getaway filled with charm, history and one-of-a-kind finds, Laurel, Mississippi, offers a rare balance where it all comes together with ease.
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Welcome to the May issue of your favorite home, travel and lifestyle magazine! As spring blossoms all around Memphis and the Mid South, we’re excited to bring you fresh ideas to refresh your space, inspire your adventures and elevate your everyday.
In this month’s interior spotlight, discover vibrant design tips to brighten your home as the season warms up. I am so happy COLOR is back. We’ve also rounded up a must-visit travel destination that is a made-to-order stop when you’re on your way to the beach. Laurel, MS, is a perfect place to break up the drive—throw in a Pearl’s fried chicken fix; you won’t be disappointed! If you are looking for a more long-distance beach location, Mexico is calling, and we have suggestions to fit most any taste and budget.
Happy Mother’s Day, Happy Graduation, Happy School is out for Summer, and Happy times in Memphis and the Mid South!
- Margaret Monger, PUBLISHER
A Fresh Take on Traditional
DESIGN BY LINDSEY BLACK INTERIORS | STORY BY TERRI GLAZER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOSEPH BRADSHAW
AUnion City, TN, couple wanted a new home; they just didn’t want it to seem brand new. Memphis interior designer Lindsey Black helped them achieve that goal. Says the homeowner, “A lot of people comment that it looks like we’ve been living here for years.” Black filled her clients’ newly constructed house with mostly new furnishings combined with family treasures and a sprinkling of vintage and antique finds to create a cohesive look that’s a fresh take on traditional.
The homeowner heard about Black through friends who live in Memphis. Once she started following the Instagram account of Black’s self-named design firm, she knew the two would be a fit. “I immediately loved everything she did,” she recalls. She brought Black on board early in the construction phase and other than some guidelines about her general preferences, gave the designer free rein. “I told her we didn’t want anything too modern. We’re pretty traditional. We trusted her as a professional and wanted to let her do her thing.”
Blacksays that level of trust had much to do with the success of the effort. “The projects that always turn out the best are the ones where the clients feel good about us and don’t think they have to give too much instruction. The more freedom they give us, the better the project turns out.”
A wide foyer welcomes guests into the home with a relaxed formality. Black opted for a mostly neutral palette here, selecting a geometric patterned runner to anchor the design. Flanked by two elongated lantern sconces, a large Kurt Meer original painting provides a dramatic focal point. Its image is reflected in an oversized shield mirror that hangs across the entryway. Overhead, a trio of Ralph Lauren pendants light the way and continue the linear theme.
The area opens into the home’s combination living/ dining/kitchen. While such open spaces often seem to lend themselves to more contemporary design, Black created a look that reflected her clients’ desire for updated traditional. Defined by a wide cased opening, the living room can accommodate the family of five easily with two comfortable sofas and a pair of velvet chairs with graceful curved lines.
The chairs’ welting, along with the room’s accent pillows, offer the first glimpse of one of Black’s goals for the home’s overall design: the introduction of color. The homeowner says she decorated her previous house in white and tan. “I was scared to pattern mix or do much with color at all,” she admits.
The designer praises her client’s willingness to stretch a bit beyond, however. “She definitely came around. Once we started doing the design work, she became much more open to the idea of color and pattern in her house.”
Withthe owners’ desire for a traditional-feeling home in mind, Black set out to create what she describes as a semi-formal dining room. “We kept it casual enough where it still felt appropriate for everyday use, but they can also dress it up; using the nice china in there works just as well.” Against the backdrop of another neutral rug, the couple’s existing dining table, a trestle-style piece custom made by a local carpenter, sits as the centerpiece.
Two low-back Parsons chairs and six side chairs, all upholstered in the same Namay Samay fabric, surround it. Completing the dining room’s decor is a sideboard that’s new to the family, but comes with a history. Black found the piece while on a buying trip to the famous Round Top Antiques Fair in Texas and knew it would be perfect for the project. “It was once used in a church because it has a little slot in the top where people could put their offering; the drawer under it locks,” Black explains.
The room flows effortlessly into the kitchen, a spot so beautiful the homeowner says it has inspired her to cook more often. Black selected a soft taupe for the perimeter cabinets and warm natural walnut for the island and built-in china hutch. She and the homeowner both loved a slab of Calcutta Vagli marble they found with the help of Countertops of Memphis so much that they decided to use it not only on the countertops, but for the backsplash as well. Its deep gray veining makes a bold statement behind the range, as does the custom vent hood, which the designer says is “the star of the kitchen show.” Made by Memphis metalsmith Bill Price, the copper hood’s brass accents echo the finish of the cabinet hardware and plumbing fixtures.
Equally
as stunning, but far less neutral, the bar nook and study showcase color and pattern. The designer drenched the study walls, trim and the built-ins that wrap the room in a rich, true green. Full-length drapes cleverly conceal a wall-mounted TV the homeowners wanted in the room, but didn’t want to detract from the decor when not in use. A handsome Hickory Chair library table serves as a home work desk and a pair of chairs with exposed wood arms and frames provide seating.
Just off the dining room, the bar merges beauty and practicality. Its clear-coated walnut cabinetry, accented by reeded glass on the wall cabinet doors, give the spot a degree of gravitas. Brass and glass bistro shelves, French-inspired Corsica wallpaper by Jasper and quirky Urban Electric hand sconces evoke a Parisian feel.
The primary bedroom exudes cozy comfort, a sense that often eludes spaces with such a large scale. The key, says Black, to creating an intimate feel in a grand space is layering. “You really need those layers of furniture and fabrics to make a room feel warm when it's that big,” she says. Saturated color, a deep blue-green all around, initiates the mood; dark wood furniture adds even more warmth. Artwork, soft upholstery and bedding, a large rug and beautiful draperies complete the equation, adding up to a relaxing retreat after busy days for the parents of three young sons.
Black again delivered her clients’ desired been-there-forever look in the adjacent bath. Marble floors in a classic checkerboard pattern and a freestanding oval tub with floor-mounted filler set the time-honored tone. A family heirloom piece found a perfect home, albeit in an unconventional location, in the bathroom. Set across from the tub, the vintage china cabinet holds extra towels and looks as though it was created to be in just that spot.
Because these owners wanted their new home’s aesthetic to flow cohesively throughout they allowed Black a pleasure decorators aren’t always afforded: she was able to design the bedroom and attached bath for each of their three boys. An essential concept when working with a child’s room is to incorporate elements that will grow along with the occupant, especially the pieces that are expensive or difficult to replace, according to Black. “If a client wants to invest in a child’s room, it has to have longevity,” she says.
"We
did add some youthfulness,” adds Black, explaining that every bedroom has a different subtle theme. One features nautical art, a chair with rope cording, and accent pillows covered in a sailboat print. Another has a western flair with a headboard covered in buffalo check fabric and adorable Schumacher cowboy accent fabric and matching wallpaper in the bathroom.
The youngest son’s bedroom, likewise, is perfect for a young gentleman, and will stay perfect for him as he grows. Black paired browns and crisp navy blue here, but was careful to make sure this “big-boy” room didn’t feel too mature. She says, “We made it feel age-appropriate for him by bringing in the bear fabric on the beds and art from children’s books.”
Black also made sure all the bathrooms would stand the test of time, using tried-and-true elements materials like basketweave, penny and subway tiles paired with classically simple fixtures and cabinetry.
From the big choices like finishes, fixtures and furniture, to the details like incorporating family treasures large and small throughout the design, a gifted designer who was given leeway to use her talents delivered the fresh yet classic home of her client’s dreams. Says the homeowner, “It turned out perfect. You just have to trust the process and the people.”
A WEEKEND GETAWAY TO LAUREL MISSISSIPPI
BY MEGAN FERRIS | PHOTOS COURTESY OF
VISIT LAUREL & JONES COUNTY
There’s something special about slowing down and spending a weekend in a place where creativity blooms on every corner and the people greet visitors like family. In Laurel and Jones County, Mississippi, travelers seem to linger a little longer. Whether visitors are fans of HGTV's hit series “Home Town” or simply seeking a Southern getaway filled with charm, history and one-of-a-kind finds, Laurel offers a rare balance where it all comes together with ease.
Rooted in history, yet shaped by a new wave of creativity, Laurel is a place where historic preservation and modern energy exist side-by-side, creating an experience that feels authentic rather than curated. Beautifully restored homes, locally owned shops and a growing creative community all share a sense of pride and place.
There is an unmistakable magic to Laurel and Jones County that keeps visitors coming back time and time again.
STEP INTO THE "HOME TOWN" EXPERIENCE
Laurel has stepped into a new chapter as the headquarters of “Home Town,” now in its 10th season on HGTV. The series has helped showcase the city’s architectural charm while fueling thoughtful growth across downtown. The show introduced millions of viewers to the charm locals have always known: historic homes, tree - lined s treets and the community’s unmistakable warmth. This historic Southern town has seen its main street and downtown experience an exciting rebirth, with an influx of community-driven initiatives and events that unite locals and visitors alike.
STAY IN A RESTORED SOUTHERN HOME
From cozy bed and breakfasts to well-appointed hotels and short-term rentals, Laurel offers accommodations to suit every traveler’s preference. Visitors will find plenty of options for a relaxing stay while they explore this Southern gem, and may even see some of their favorite “Home Town” renovations ready for rent. Cottages, bungalows and historic houses offer visitors the chance to step into Laurel’s signature style. Cozy Cottage Management represents many beautifully restored properties that capture the charm and craftsmanship for which the town is known, including The Orange Door, a cottage restored on the show’s third season. With its welcoming porch, original hardwood floors and interiors that blend classic Southern character with modern comfort, it’s the kind of place that feels instantly like home.
A DOWNTOWN DESIGNED FOR STROLLING
Laurel’s historic district is best experienced on foot, inviting visitors to slow down and take it all in. Main Street is bustling with locally owned shops, friendly storefronts, seasonal events and rich local culture that make every encounter feel personal. Whether they’re browsing boutiques like Bella Bella, sampling aromas at The Scent Library, or simply admiring the murals that brighten brick walls, downtown encourages visitors to move at a leisurely pace. In a town with so much classic charm, unique antiques are around every corner. Those in search of timeless treasures can stop by Peddlers’ Junktion for ceramics, artwork and accent pieces, or Southern Antiques, where over 10,000 square feet of carefully curated items await.
A CULINARY SCENE WITH SOUTHERN SOUL
Laurel’s culinary scene captures the warmth, flavor and personality of the community. Visitors will find everything they're craving, from Southern classics and Mississippi barbeque to fine dining and international cuisine. Pearl’s Diner remains a beloved spot for homestyle favorites served with genuine hospitality, while seafood lovers will find Charlie’s Catfish irresistible, with golden-fried catfish and classic Southern sides that capture the essence of the region’s flavors. Regardless of where travelers choose to dine, they’re sure to leave with full bellies and big smiles.
WHERE HISTORY MEETS A NEW CREATIVE ENERGY
Laurel’s architecture tells the story of a town built on craftsmanship, from stately homes with wide porches to the intricate details found in historic storefronts. Today, that legacy inspires a new generation of creatives who are shaping Laurel’s future through design, art and thoughtful revitalization.
It’s a blend that gives the town its unmistakable character. To experience this connection firsthand, explore the historic district on a walking or golf cart tour, where Laurel’s past and present come to life block by block. These guided experiences highlight beautifully preserved homes, “Home Town” renovations and the architectural details that continue to influence the town’s creative momentum.
ART AT THE CENTER OF IT ALL
Laurel’s creative movement starts at the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art. As Mississippi’s oldest art museum, it celebrates Laurel’s creative legacy through rotating exhibitions, engaging lectures and a collection that spans American art, European works and decorative arts. It’s easy to see how this creative legacy influenced the town’s revitalization .
The Historic District Walking Tour, led by museum director George Bassi, is a must-do while in Laurel. This engaging tour traces the history and evolution of Laurel through its most notable homes and structures. As guests walk beneath the towering oaks and past beautifully preserved residences, Bassi brings the town’s history to life with stories, architectural insights, and a deep appreciation for the craftsmanship that continues to influence Laurel’s creative spirit today.
PLANNING A TRIP TO LAUREL
A weekend in Laurel comes easily, creating a getaway that blends historic beauty with modern creativity. Every stroll, every meal and every conversation adds another layer to the experience. Visitors leave with memories that last and a heart full of art and culture. Plan the perfect getaway at visitjones.com.
WHY TRAVELERS ARE FALLING IN LOVE WITH MEXICO
ARTICLE AND PICTURES PROVIDED BY BARBARA
MAY, OWNER OF TRAVEL LEADERS
Mexico isn’t just a destination, it’s a collection of worlds waiting to be explored. From sun-drenched coastlines and cosmopolitan cities to colonial highlands and jungle-fringed ruins, travelers are rediscovering Mexico not as a single vacation spot, but as a country of endlessly diverse experiences.
Right now, travelers are flocking to Mexico in record numbers, and not just for the beaches. They’re chasing culture in vibrant cities, indulging in world-class cuisine, seeking wellness in jungle hideaways, and uncovering hidden gems far beyond the typical tourist trail.
MEXICO CITY: WHERE CULTURE, CUISINE AND COOL COLLIDE
Once overlooked by leisure travelers, Mexico City has surged to the top of must-visit lists for good reason. Ancient history and cutting-edge creativity meet in this sprawling, energetic capital.
In the historic center, travelers wander through the Zócalo, one of the largest city squares in the world, framed by architectural icons like the Metropolitan Cathedral and the ancient Templo Mayor. Just steps away, centuries of history unfold in layers from Aztec ruins to Spanish colonial grandeur.
What truly defines Mexico City today, though, is its modern renaissance. Neighborhoods like Roma and Condesa buzz with art galleries, rooftop bars, boutique hotels and some of the most exciting dining venues in the world. Food lovers travel here specifically to experience restaurants like Pujol and Quintonil, where traditional Mexican ingredients are transformed into unforgettable culinary art. For travelers craving culture with a contemporary edge, Mexico City is no longer optional, it’s essential.
RIVIERA MAYA: THE CARIBBEAN DREAM THAT KEEPS EVOLVING
Stretching along the Caribbean coast, the Riviera Maya continues to be one of Mexico’s most in-demand regions, but it’s far from one-size-fits-all.
In Playa del Carmen, visitors find the perfect balance of beach days and vibrant nightlife. Boutique hotels and all-inclusive resorts line powdery white sands, while Fifth Avenue pulses with energy after sunset. Further south, Tulum has transformed into a global hotspot for
Riviera Maya
eco-luxury and wellness travel. Think beachfront cabanas, yoga at sunrise and candlelit dinners under the stars. Travelers come here not just to relax, but to reconnect with nature, with themselves and with a slower pace of life.
Beyond the beaches, the Riviera Maya offers unforgettable adventures. Snorkeling in the Great Maya Reef, swimming in crystal-clear cenotes and exploring cliffside ruins overlooking the sea make this region far more than a typical beach escape.
LOS CABOS: WHERE THE DESERT MEETS THE SEA
At the southern tip of the Baja Peninsula, Los Cabos delivers a striking contrast of landscapes with rugged desert cliffs plunging into deep blue waters. This is where luxury travelers are heading for a sophisticated, high-end escape. World-class resorts, championship golf courses and award-winning restaurants define the scene, while the iconic El Arco rock formation serves as a dramatic natural centerpiece.
But Los Cabos isn’t just about indulgence; it’s also a place rich in experiences. From whale watching in the winter months to private yacht charters and sport fishing excursions, this destination blends relaxation with adventure in a way few places can.
PUERTO ESCONDIDO: MEXICO’S LAID-BACK COASTAL SECRET
While major resorts draw crowds, today’s travelers seek authenticity; that’s exactly what they find in Puerto Escondido.
Located on Oaxaca’s Pacific coast, this once-sleepy surf town has quietly become one of Mexico’s trendiest under-the-radar destinations. Its appeal lies in its simplicity: golden beaches, rolling waves and a relaxed atmosphere that feels worlds away from all-inclusive resorts.
Surfers flock to Playa Zicatela for its legendary waves, while others come for bioluminescent lagoons, sea turtle releases and unforgettable sunsets. Puerto Escondido is where travelers go to unplug, slow down and experience Mexico at its most genuine.
Mexico beaches
Scuba diving near Great Maya Reef
Whale watching
OAXACA: A CULTURAL AND CULINARY POWERHOUSE
If Mexico has a cultural heart, many would argue it beats strongest in Oaxaca. This southern city has become a magnet for travelers seeking authenticity, tradition and some of the best food in the country. Its cobblestone streets are lined with colorful buildings, artisan shops and bustling markets filled with handmade textiles and local crafts.
Just outside the city, Monte Alban, a UNESCO World Heritage archeological site, rises above the valley. The ancient Zapotec city offers sweeping views and a powerful sense of history, but it’s Oaxaca’s culinary scene that truly draws visitors. Known as the birthplace of mole, the region offers a rich tapestry of flavors from smoky mezcal to complex sauces passed down through generations.
SAN MIGUEL DE ALLENDE: COLONIAL CHARM WITH A COSMOPOLITAN TWIST
In the highlands of central Mexico, San Miguel de Allende feels like stepping into a painting. With its pastel colored buildings, cobblestone streets and dramatic pink cathedral, this UNESCO World Heritage city has long been a favorite among artists and expats. Today, it’s one of Mexico’s most sought-after destinations for travelers looking for beauty, culture and sophistication. Boutique hotels housed in restored mansions offer an intimate, luxurious stay, while rooftop restaurants provide sweeping sunset views over the skyline. San Miguel is especially popular for romantic getaways, destination weddings and cultural escapes that feel both timeless and refined.
Mexican Food
CHIAPAS AND BEYOND:
NATURE AT ITS MOST UNTAMED
In southern Mexico, Chiapas is emerging as a must visit for ecoadventurers. Its dense jungles, cascading waterfalls and ancient ruins create a landscape that feels almost otherworldly. The towering walls of Sumidero Canyon, best explored by boat, leave a lasting impression, while nearby Palenque offers one of the most beautiful Mayan archaeological sites in the country.
Wildlife lovers, hikers and cultural explorers are increasingly drawn to this region for its untouched beauty and sense of discovery.
A CULINARY JOURNEY ACROSS EVERY REGION
Wherever travelers go in Mexico, one thing remains constant: extraordinary food.
In Mexico City, it’s tacos al pastor from street vendors and fine dining that rivals any global capital. In coastal regions, fresh ceviche and grilled seafood dominate menus. In Oaxaca, rich moles, handmade tortillas and artisanal mezcal never disappoint.
Food isn’t just part of the journey— it is the journey.
WHERE YOU STAY SHAPES THE EXPERIENCE
Today’s vacationers search for stays that reflect the destination itself; places that blend local culture, design and hospitality into something truly memorable. Mexico’s accommodations are as diverse as its destinations. Travelers can choose from sprawling all-inclusive resorts in Cancun and Playa del Carmen, eco-chic jungle retreats in Tulum, luxury beachfront villas in Los Cabos or boutique colonial inns in cities like San Miguel de Allende.
WHY MEXICO—AND WHY NOW?
Mexico’s surge in popularity can be credited to both its beauty and its versatility. Few countries offer so much variety in such close proximity. In a single trip, visitors can explore ancient ruins, relax on world-class beaches, dine at globally recognized restaurants, and immerse themselves in centuries-old traditions. Mexico is accessible, welcoming and constantly evolving, yet deeply rooted in its heritage.
Boutique hotel in San Miguel
A THOUGHTFUL APPROACH TO PLANNING
Turquoise Caribbean waters, a vibrant cultural city, or an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Mexico offers a destination that fits any travel style perfectly. The key is knowing where to go and how to experience the country in a way that’s seamless and unforgettable.
Travel Leaders can design a personalized Mexico journey tailored to specific interests, whether it’s a luxury escape, a romantic getaway, or a family adventure filled with oncein-a-lifetime moments.
For more information, contact Travel Leaders at 901.853.6200 for an appointment. The agency is located at 1125 Poplar View Lane, Suite 3, Collierville, TN.
Sumidero Canyon in Chiapas
Molly's Chocolate Chunk Cookies
SERVED ON GINORI 1735 PLATES, COURTESY OF SOUTHERN AVENUE COMPANY
PHOTOS BY JADEN STANLEY @PHOTOSBYJADENSTANLEY
MOLLY’S CHOCOLATE CHUNK COOKIES
Once you try these oversized beauties, you’ll never need another chocolate chip cookie recipe. The rich, sweet dough paired with pools of dark chocolate and a sprinkle of flaky salt is a combination that will have you baking these again and again. They bake up generously large, so when serving a crowd, I like to let them cool completely before cutting each cookie into quarters. This creates small, triangular pieces that are the perfect serving size.
Ingredients:
2 st icks unsalted butter
1 cu p packed light brown sugar
1 cu p granulated sugar
1 la rge egg
2 tsp . vanilla extract
2 ½ tsp . water
2 ½ cu ps all-purpose flour
1 tsp . baking powder
1 tsp . baking soda
1 tsp . kosher salt
2 ba rs dark chocolate, roughly chopped
Fla ky salt, for finishing
Instructions:
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Meanwhile, add light brown sugar and granulated sugar to a mixing bowl. Pour the melted butter over the sugars and whisk for one minute until smooth and glossy. Add the egg and whisk for another minute. Add the water and vanilla and whisk until fully incorporated. Sprinkle the flour evenly over the wet ingredients, followed by the baking powder, baking soda and kosher salt. Gently stir the dry ingredients together on top before folding them into the wet ingredients with a wooden spoon, mixing just until combined. Preheat the oven to 325°F. Roughly chop both bars of dark chocolate into bitesized pieces, and fold them into the dough. Scoop the dough into portions slightly larger than golf balls, keeping a rough shape rather than perfectly rounding them. Arrange the cookies on a baking sheet, leaving ample space between them to allow for spreading. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies begin to flatten. Remove the baking sheet and, holding it about a foot above the counter, gently drop the pan. (This step may sound funny… but it allows the trapped air to escape and makes for a thin and chewy cookie!) Return the cookies to the oven for an additional 3-5 minutes, then repeat the pan drop. When the cookies are thin with lightly golden tops, they are done. Let them rest on the baking sheet to finish baking, and sprinkle each cookie with your favorite flaky salt.
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.
Instagram: @___madebymolly
TikTok : @_madebymolly
How to Improve the Relationships Close to Home
BY MICHELLE JOHNS MA, LPC-MHSP (TEMP),
As a therapist I spend my days discussing relationship dynamics. The relationships people tend to struggle with most are those with their intimate partner, children or parents. Immediate family relationships are the most important relationships in life. The challenges in these relationships are rooted in perception and communication.
Because we feel loyal to those we love, naming their harmful or frustrating behaviors seems like an act of betrayal. Our instinct to protect these treasured relationships can cause feelings of guilt or shame when we name the challenges, yet not naming them creates internal turmoil.
The challenge begins with perception— how an experience, event or occurrence is interpreted or understood. Experiences include the exchange of words, observed facial expressions, body language and tone of voice. Through interactions with others, we determine their intentions toward us and infer our perceived value to them.
We react to interactions based on felt experiences. For example, if we receive
a sharply spoken word, we may feel a ping in our chest like a shock to our soul. Feeling disappointment, fear or anxiety may follow. Our thoughts, motivated by our emotions, begin to prepare for safety by planning a survival strategy and sending us into defense mode, often marked by anger, withdrawal, silence or justification.
Survival strategies are communicated in one of two manners: responsive or reactionary. Responsive communication is managed through thoughtful planning, although it is not always the best way to achieve the desired outcome. For example, we may let a snarky comment slide for the sake of not ruining a dinner, but internally we may be ruminating, feeling minimized, demeaned, belittled and angry. Reactionary communication may be explosive; cold silence, a cutting remark or passive aggressive comment intended to let the other person feel the pain they have caused.
We struggle in close relationships, feeling obligated to protect them while simultaneously suffering through their chaotic dynamics. Oddly, we feel safest avoiding confrontation through surface
level conversations, limited interactions or reactionary communications. What we desperately seek is the ability to be heard through vulnerable and honest communication met with compassion and understanding.
How do we transform these dynamics, deepen our connections and make relationships meaningful? The answer lies in curiously examining our perceptions and courageously communicating our feelings.
Examine yourself first.
Whatever the interaction, the first question we must consider is, “What is happening for me?” We must name the energy we feel in our body, the emotions we have, and the thoughts we are thinking. We must then get curious about where the parts of us that are responding or reacting get their roots.
Get curious about the other person.
Rather than making an assumption, you might repeat back to them in real time what you heard them say and ask them to help you understand what they mean.
You would say, “I hear you saying…” Perhaps then you should be quiet and let them confirm you heard correctly. Next you might say, “Help me understand more about what you mean,” or “What about that comment felt important for you to share?”
Communicate your felt experience.
It is often said we ruminate longer over what we did not say than what we did say on behalf of ourselves.
Thoughtful communication expressed calmly, compassionately and confidently is always the key. The tried and true “I
feel” statement method is still the best route.
It works like this:
“I feel…” then name what you feel, “when…” name when you feel it. “What I would like is...” name what you would like.
I use this method most in challenging situations as I find it to have a deescalating effect. The key for me is finding ways to make the statement without using the word “you” in any part of it.
While boundaries have their place, connection-focused communication is the goal in relationships we want to preserve. Wouldn’t it be better if we were working toward connection and meaning rather than finding ways to put up barriers? It does make sense that we struggle with the familial relationships we feel most obligated to protect, but we have to ask ourselves if the relationship is worth the discomfort of the conversation.
Special ThanksLindsey Black Interiors lindseyblackinteriors.com Joseph Bradshaw joseph-bradshaw.com
TRAVEL
Special ThanksTravel Leaders 901.853.6200
GETAWAY
Special ThanksVisit Laurel & Jones County Mississippi visitjones.com
HEALTHY YOU
Special ThanksMichelle Johns mjohns@transformingwellness.com
IN THE KITCHEN
Special ThanksMade by Molly @__madebymolly
ON A GOOD NOTE
Special ThanksHi-Speed Industrial Service Team gohispeed.com
eighty years at hi-speed
Ever wonder who helps keep power plants, water treatment facilities, steel mills, paper mills and other major manufacturing facilities up and running? One local business is celebrating 80 years of doing just that!
Eight decades is no small milestone, and for HiSpeed Industrial Service, it’s a testament to doing things the right way—every time.
Founded in 1946, the company has built its reputation on a simple but powerful promise: keep customers “up and running.” That commitment is reflected not only in the services Hi-Speed provides (repairing electric motors, pumps, gearboxes and overhead crane systems) but also in the people who stand behind the work every day.
In a recent team photo, employees gathered at HiSpeed’s Millington, TN, facility alongside a restored 1946 truck, a nod to the company’s founding year. “This image captures more than just our history,” says president and CEO Ben Buffington. “It reflects our culture rooted in grit, accountability and excellence. These values continue to guide us forward every single day.”
From predictive maintenance to 24/7 service
STORY BY BETH OKEA
availability, Hi-Speed has evolved with the needs of its customers while staying grounded in its core principles. The company serves clients across the Southeast from its locations in Millington and Little Rock, AR, ensuring critical operations never miss a beat.
“What truly sets Hi-Speed apart, however, is our team,” says Buffington. “Decades of experience, pride in craftsmanship, community support and a shared commitment to ‘doing the job right’ have carried us through generations.”
As Hi-Speed Industrial Service celebrates 80 years, one thing remains clear: the legacy isn’t just about longevity. It’s about reliability, resilience and a relentless drive to keep Mid South companies moving forward daily.
For more information on Hi-Speed Industrial Service, call 800.713.0103 or visit gohispeed.com.
Hi-Speed Industrial Service team members pose alongside the company’s restored 1946 truck, a nod to the company’s history as it celebrates 80 years of reliability.
