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WhenI was reading this month’s home feature, I had to laugh at how the seed was planted by a daughter for her father to purchase a new house so they could have a pool in the family. I get it! We pretty much will do anything for our children and grandchildren, so kudos to that dad! I learned this trick a long time ago with my husband. He doesn’t really read my letters, so I am safe admitting some of my purchases, I have falsely credited to our children but mainly our grandchildren. They hung the moon, do no wrong and we love to spoil them sweetly.
This month’s travel article features Beaches Turks and Caicos Resort. Although Turks has been one of our favorite vacation spots, we had never experienced Beaches and “the grandkids” were just dying to go, so needless to say, we went and had an absolutely incredible experience. Relaxing, or as Crawford says, “lalaxing” in the pool, lazy river, splash pad and beach time, this resort has it all! I was so excited when our travel writer wanted to feature this dreamy family vacation spot that will forever hold precious memories in our hearts!
I also love the article on the Homecoming Parade on steroids that the town of Corinth, MS, celebrates each year. With all the craziness in the world right now, it is so comforting to see a bit of Mayberry in our world. Corinth is one of my favorite places to shop and dine, and being a former homecoming queen from Natchez, another small town in Mississippi, I can’t wait to attend this year’s homecoming parade later this month.
Is it really September 2025? When the magazine launched, I was 37 and our two children were 13 and nine. Our oldest is now 36 and I am 60, with four grandbabies. Don’t blink and don’t put off making memories. In the end, none of us will regret pool time at home with family and friends, great vacations with those we love and homecoming parades—the good stuff!
- Margaret Monger, PUBLISHER
Back in the Family
STORY BY TERRI GLAZER | DESIGN BY SELENA MCADAMS OF SPRUCE BUILT BY CHRISTIAN MEYER OF MEYER CONSTRUCTION LLC
ARCHITECTURE BY DAVID ANDERSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEFANIE RAWLINSON
"Iwas living downtown in a condo on the river, loving life. My oldest daughter called one day in 2019 and said, ‘Dad, our house doesn’t have room for a swimming pool, so we need you to buy a house with a swimming pool or one that can have a pool added.’ I never say no, but I was really kind of like, okay, whatever, maybe,” recalls Gordon Wynn. He never expected what would happen very soon afterwards.
Three days later, she called again and asked her dad what the address of his grandparents’ home in East Memphis was. “I told her and she said, ‘It went on the market today, and we think you should buy it.’”
Wynn’s grandfather built the ranch-style house on a large lot in 1948. Although it sold outside the family in the 1990s after his grandparents passed away, he had treasured memories of the home. “I had to do whatever it took to get it back, and I did,” he says.
After urging from his family, he placed an after-hours call to the realtor that same night to assure her he’d be the home’s new owner, no matter what.
Once he achieved the goal of bringing his “G Daddy’s” place back into the family, Wynn wasted no time restoring it. He knew he could trust Selena McAdams to lovingly modernize the house, while respecting its history and heritage. The experienced designer and owner of local interior shop and firm Spruce had worked with the Wynns for years, creating homes for Gordon, for his children, and the office for the family business.
“The house hadn’t been updated very much and wasn’t really livable,” Wynn says. That fact didn’t deter him from moving in, living almost exclusively in the primary bedroom while the rest of the home was under construction.
Architect
David Anderson drew the plans for the reimagined mid-century modern layout. “We weren’t in a hurry; there was no deadline,” says Wynn, “so we took our time and did everything right.” McAdams credits contractor Christian Meyer of Meyer Construction LLC and the craftsmen at Old City Millwork for expertly bringing her and Anderson’s visions to completion on the project.
The front entry and foyer space set the tone for the home’s distinct style. McAdams explains, “We decided to keep the original ribbed glass in the sidelights, but we had a new front door custom made. We wanted it to be really unique, and we were also trying to give the ribbed glass new life.” Clean white walls and trim create a light-filled mood, a vivid contrast to the deep gray the designer chose for the exterior. A bare-bulb pendant fixture overhead gives a subtle nod to iconic space-age Sputnik chandeliers. Its bronze and wood construction pairs perfectly with a unique collection displayed on a nearby wall. “Gordon had these really cool axes he’d been collecting. It was challenging and fun to install them in an artistic way,” the designer says.
Wynn loves to travel and has amassed varied works of art from destinations around the world and close to home. McAdams incorporated his treasures into the home, and continues to place new acquisitions as his collection grows. She also worked furniture Wynn already owned into the newly renovated house. “I like to incorporate items that a client has had. Moving doesn’t mean you have to get rid of everything and start all over,” the designer says.
Just such a piece, a weathered brown leather sofa, anchors the home’s living room. McAdams added more seating in the generously sized space—a pair of Four Hands armchairs upholstered in soft aubergine velvet and twin stylized wingback chairs in olive boucle—along with a round marbletop coffee table.
The living room’s fireplace received a total redo, replacing a stacked stone hearth and wooden mantle with a stunning plaster wall punctuated by a clean-lined limestone surround. Anderson’s plans included new cased openings flanking the fireplace to create better flow from the front rooms to the back of the house.
Justoff the living room, the original dining room has been repurposed into Wynn’s home office. The homeowner requested color in the space, and McAdams delivered, choosing a warm golden yellow for the walls, accented by a saturated charcoal hue on the wainscoting, mouldings and two built-in corner cabinets, features of the home’s original architecture. A lowbacked mid-century Danish sofa with exposed wood frame and legs, and a vintage desk look right at home alongside Wynn’s many books and eclectic art.
Wynn was adamant about replacing the home’s tiny, galley-style kitchen with one that better suited his lifestyle. All of his children and grandchildren live locally and his place is frequently full of family members. The new addition is the hub of the home, kitchen/dining area/casual living space all in one, with plenty of room for all the relatives. A vaulted ceiling in stained tongue-andgroove wood with exposed beams ties the large area together.
The open kitchen has an elegant yet masculine feel: dark cabinetry with waterfall-style leathered mother of pearl quartzite countertops, counter seating on metal and leather barstools, and a swanky bar area. A colorful photo by Wynn’s son, a hobby photographer, hangs over the kitchen sink as a funky focal point. Above the island cooktop, a minimalist floating vent hood allows sightlines to remain unimpeded. It does double duty, also adding asymmetrical flair, as does the light fixture over the dining table. “Because it’s the only light fixture in this room, I wanted it to have extra impact. This one has organic movement, not static like a typical chandelier,” McAdams says of the freeform piece. When lit, its alabaster pendants create a warm glow.
Thedesigner chose a handsome custom olive green and orange pinstripe for the casual living area’s combination sofa/chaise sectional and punched up the look with colorful pillows. A local metalworker custom fabricated the fireplace front, giving the room a substantial centerpiece with modern interest.
Through a pair of oversized glass doors that pivot to open completely, the space connects to the large backyard. Complete with the pool Wynn’s family requested (the same one he remembers swimming in as a kid), the lot stretches back seemingly forever. An original poolhouse also received a major facelift during the renovation, with new floors, a new fireplace and a vaulted ceiling to mirror the architecture of the main structure. The existing kitchen was replaced by a smaller yet efficient version in order to make room for an area to store Wynn’s scuba equipment. Although McAdams admits she’d never before designed a space customized especially for air tanks and wet suits, she delivered beautifully, even adding an oversized double shower perfect for cleaning gear after a diving trip.
From front door to backyard, this project was about so much more than a home renovation or a new place for Wynn to live. It was both a labor of love for his children and extended family and a tribute to his grandparents. McAdams says its success is due in part to her longstanding relationship with the Wynns. “We gel so well together. There’s major trust, and it’s great.” The homeowner agrees, “It was an ugly old ranch house, let’s be honest. And I think we made it beautiful. I've not found anything after the fact that I’d change.”
WARRIOR PRIDE ON PARADE
TEXT BY EMILY STEEN | PHOTOS COURTESY OF CORINTH SCHOOL DISTRICT
Each fall, Corinth, MS, comes alive with music, laughter and tradition as the Corinth High School Homecoming Parade rolls through the heart of downtown. More than a school event, it’s a moment when the whole town comes together, when roots run deep, history is celebrated and memories are shared, relived and made.
A TRADITION THAT RUNS DEEP
For generations, the Homecoming Parade has been a highlight of Corinth life; part pep rally, part pageant and part family reunion. Floats, bands, crowned royalty and a sea of onlooking faces bring the streets to life, highlighting the power of school spirit and nostalgia front and center.
The route winds from the high school through Corinth’s charming downtown square, symbolically linking the students to the very heart of the community. It’s a living reminder that in Corinth, school pride and community pride are one and the same.
A CELEBRATION ON WHEELS
On parade day, decorated floats and cars line up—each one a product of creativity, teamwork and late-night building sessions. Students, sweethearts, maids and the Homecoming Court wave from atop the creations as sidewalks fill with proud parents, alumni, friends and neighbors. The floats themselves are more than pretty displays; they’re a labor of love. For generations, students and alumni alike have worked each year to construct the symbols of school spirit, all for the love of the parade.
ROYALTY IN THE SPOTLIGHT
This year’s Homecoming Queen, Jessy Mitchell, puts it best: “Being elected queen is truly humbling, and I’m filled with gratitude for this honor. I love my friends and community, and being chosen by them is an incredible blessing; not only a blessing from them, but also a blessing from God to show His grace and glory.”
For her, parade day will be a once-in-a-lifetime moment.
“As an athlete, wearing a gown and crown will be a whole new experience for me! I’m excited to see all the floats and cars come to life and to fully live the moment. I can’t wait!”
DOWNTOWN AT THE HEART
Routing the parade through downtown is no accident.
Corinth’s historic downtown has always been a gathering place, a hub where business, culture and community meet.
Storefronts are primed to watch the parade, businesses take a minute to wave at the finery, and locals claim their favorite viewing spots hours before the first float appears. It’s more than tradition, it’s connection. The queen herself reflects on why it matters:
“The community pours its heart and energy into this special parade.
Over the years, my family and I have always helped friends with their floats, and I’ve seen firsthand how much creativity and effort go into making it great. The challenge of trying to outdo yourself each year makes it so much fun. I think the tradition is magical and something our community always looks forward to. I hope it continues strong.”
GENERATIONS OF MEMORIES
Perhaps the most touching part of the Homecoming Parade is how it bridges generations. Alumni return with children and grandchildren, sharing stories of their own high school days. Some who once waved from a float now walk alongside their kids or grandkids, keeping the tradition alive.
MORE THAN A PARADE
When the last float passes and the music fades, what remains is more than just the memory of a parade. It’s the feeling of a town standing together, the sound of drums echoing down Fillmore Street, the sight of a grandmother tearing up as her granddaughter waves from a car. In Corinth, Homecoming isn’t just about football; it means family, tradition and pride. Every fall, the Homecoming Parade makes sure that legacy stays in motion.
ESCAPE TO BEACHES TURKS & CAICOS
TEXT AND PHOTOS COURTESY OF BARBARA MAY, OWNER OF TRAVEL LEADERS
If your idea of a perfect vacation includes pristine white- sand beaches, warm turquoise waters and the kind of pampering that makes you forget real life for a while, it’s time to set your sights on Turks & Caicos. This dreamy Caribbean destination—made up of 40 islands and cays, only eight of which are inhabited—delivers jaw-dropping natural beauty paired with luxury and laid-back charm. At the heart of it all is Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort Villages & Spa, an all-inclusive haven for families, couples, honeymooners and adventure-seekers alike.
From the moment you arrive on the island of Providenciales (locally known as “Provo”), the gentle trade winds, crystalclear waters and warm hospitality welcome you. Just a short 15-minute transfer from the airport, Beaches Turks & Caicos feels like its own vibrant beachfront town, only this one includes unlimited gourmet dining, a 45,000-squarefoot waterpark, stunning accommodations and a no-worries, everything-included approach to vacationing.
GRACE BAY BEACH: WHERE THE OCEAN MEETS PERFECTION
Beaches Turks & Caicos is located on Grace Bay Beach, consistently ranked among the top beaches in the world. The sand is impossibly soft and white, the water a translucent turquoise. Protected by a barrier reef, the bay’s calm, clear waters make it perfect for swimming, paddle boarding and snorkeling. Whether you're an early riser catching a sunrise walk or lounging under a palapa (thatched roof) at sunset with a tropical cocktail, this beach delivers unforgettable moments day after day.
FIVE DISTINCT VILLAGES, ONE UNFORGETTABLE STAY
One of the most remarkable features of the resort is its layout. Beaches Turks & Caicos is made up of five (soon to be six) distinct “villages,” each with its own personality, architecture and vibe.
• The Caribbe an Village offers lush landscaping and a true island feel with garden and poolside rooms.
• The Fr ench Village, with European charm, features a stately pool and a central plaza reminiscent of a Parisian square.
• The It alian Village is luxurious and family-centric, with oceanfront suites and oversized balconies.
• The K ey West Village is perfect for guests seeking a more serene, upscale experience, with multi-bedroom villas and rooftop decks.
• The Seaside Villag e places guests just steps from the beach, providing intimate accommodations in a peaceful setting.
• T reasure Beach Village (opening March 1, 2026) will be the newest jewel at Beaches Turks & Caicos. It will offer 11 new room categories, from the three-story ClearSky Reserve Villas to the mega-spacious Chairman’s Butler Suite. Every accommodation is designed as a personal sandcastle — surrounding occupants with the blue hues of the pool, sea and clear sky. From two-bed Club Suites to three-bed Butler Villas with bunk beds for the kids or rooms designed for teens, every family will find their ideal place. Treasure Beach will blend luxury living with familyfriendly excitement. Guests will enjoy VIP beach cabanas, specialized water sports and curated activities designed to create unforgettable memories for travelers of all ages.
No matter the choice of suite, guests enjoy thoughtfully designed rooms and suites with four-poster beds, modern bathrooms, stocked mini-bars and upscale furnishings. Butler-level service is available in select suites for guests seeking the ultimate VIP experience.
Swim Up Bar
Walk Out Room
A CULINARY JOURNEY AROUND THE WORLD
One of the crown jewels of Beaches Turks & Caicos is its exceptional dining experience. With 21 restaurants and 15 bars, guests can embark on a world tour of flavors without ever leaving the resort. Sushi, Italian, Jamaican jerk barbecue, fresh seafood or wood-fired pizza, it’s all delicious and beautifully presented.
Some standouts include:
• Sky: An adults-only r ooftop dining experience with sweeping ocean views and gourmet cuisine.
• K imonos: A lively hibachi-style restaurant that combines entertainment and flavor.
• Schooner s: A beachside seafood spot with toes-in-the-sand dining.
• Bobb y Dee’s: A 1950s-style diner beloved by kids for its burgers, milkshakes and all-day ice cream. And yes, it’s all included, from fine wines and top-shelf liquors to espresso drinks and smoothies.
FAMILY FUN FOR EVERY AGE
Beaches Turks & Caicos has mastered the art of the family vacation. The resort doesn’t just allow kids, it celebrates them. The Pirate’s Island Waterpark is a major attraction with a lazy river, high-speed slides, a surf simulator and water cannons. There’s a splash pad for toddlers and swim-up soda bars for teens. Younger children will adore Beaches’ Sesame Street® partnership, which brings familiar characters like Elmo, Cookie Monster and Big Bird to life through parades, bedtime tuck-ins, baking sessions and live shows. The Kids Camp, staffed by certified nannies and counselors, offers age-appropriate activities that keep little ones entertained and engaged while parents enjoy some downtime.
Older kids and teens have their own dedicated spaces, including the Xbox Play Lounge, Club Liquid (a teenonly nightclub), and the Trench Town game room, featuring foosball, pool and arcade games.
Yoga
Slides
ROMANCE, REJUVENATION AND RELAXATION FOR ADULTS
While families are front and center at Beaches, adults will find plenty of opportunities to unwind and reconnect. The Red Lane® Spa offers Caribbean-inspired treatments from hot stone massages to seaweed wraps, as well as private spa suites for couples. Adults-only quiet pools provide a peaceful escape, while cabana rentals on the beach come with personalized service and chilled refreshments.
For couples celebrating honeymoons, anniversaries or just a well-earned vacation together, the resort offers private dining on the beach, sunrise yoga classes, sunset cruises and the opportunity to enjoy romantic moments surrounded by the beauty of the tropics. It’s no surprise that Beaches is also a popular location for destination weddings, offering customizable packages, wedding planning services and stunning beachfront venues.
ADVENTURES AWAIT ON LAND AND SEA
One of the best parts of vacationing in Turks & Caicos is access to world-class snorkeling and diving. Beaches offers unlimited scuba diving for certified divers (a huge value), with excursions to vibrant coral reefs and famous dive sites like The Wall off Grand Turk. Non-certified guests can take an introductory course and dive the next day.
Water sports are endless and include kayaking, paddle boarding, Hobie Cat sailing, snorkeling and aqua trikes. Land lovers can enjoy tennis and paddleboard courts, beach volleyball, fitness classes and yoga sessions overlooking the sea.
ECO-FRIENDLY AND COMMUNITY-CONSCIOUS
Beaches is more than just luxury—it’s committed to responsible tourism. Through the Sandals Foundation, the resort supports local schools, health clinics and environmental conservation efforts. Guests can give back through the Pack for a Purpose program, which invites them to bring school supplies or personal care items for local children and families.
In addition, the resort has implemented eco-friendly practices including recycling, energy-efficient systems and water conservation efforts, all designed to preserve the natural beauty of Turks & Caicos for future generations.
EASY TO GET TO, HARD TO LEAVE
Another reason Beaches Turks & Caicos is so popular? Convenience. The island is just a 90-minute flight from Miami and under four hours from most major East Coast cities. Direct flights are available from New York City, Atlanta, Charlotte and Toronto. U.S. dollars are accepted, and English is the official language, making travel seamless and stress-free.
Turks & Caicos boasts a warm tropical climate year-round, with daytime temperatures averaging in the mid-80s. The most popular time to visit is from December through April, when the weather is at its driest, but the summer and early fall months offer exceptional value with smaller crowds.
THE ALL-INCLUSIVE ADVANTAGE
What truly sets Beaches apart is its all-inclusive model, which goes beyond the basics. Guests enjoy unlimited dining, premium beverages, airport transfers, entertainment, daily and nightly activities, kids’ programs, gratuities and even scuba diving—all included. There’s no need for a wallet; tips are not expected and there are no surprise fees.
It’s a peace-of-mind approach to vacationing that allows guests to fully unplug, unwind and enjoy every moment.
A TROPICAL DREAM AWAITS
Beaches Turks & Caicos offers something rare, a luxurious Caribbean escape that caters equally to families, couples and friends traveling together. It’s where a child’s laughter echoes through a waterpark, where couples share champagne under a cottoncandy sunset, and where service, setting and smiles come together in a way that only Beaches can deliver.
For a family adventure, romantic honeymoon, multigenerational getaway or destination wedding, Beaches resort on the white shores of Grace Bay will exceed all expectations, and have you planning your return before you’ve even left.
Travel Leaders can help plan the perfect getaway to Turks & Caicos. Visit www.gotravelleaders.com or the agency’s office at 1125 Poplar View Lane #3, Collierville, TN 38017, open by appointment only. For more information call 901.853.6200. Owned by Barbara May, Travel Leaders has been creating dream vacations for over 39 years. The agency specializes in all types of travel.
Lazy River
Alzheimer’s:Understanding Science, Care and the New Mind(Part 2 of 2)
STORY BY MICHELLE JOHNS MA, LPC-MHSP (TEMP), NCC, 200 HR E-RTY, 500 HR RYT
Alzheimer's
is a scary disease. It spares the body but alters the mind. It changes personalities and the most special parts of who we know our loved ones to be. And it is becoming increasingly common. Alzheimer’s is a slow progression, averaging about 10 years from diagnosis to death, though some survive shorter or longer with it. In those years, families live with both loss and adaptation, grieving what changes and learning to find joy in what remains.
Last month, I shared my mother-in-law’s story; 10 years of navigating love, loss and moments of grace as Alzheimer’s reshaped her life and our relationship with her. That piece was about the personal side of caregiving; the laughter, the heartbreak and the lessons learned in real time.
This month, I want to widen the focus. Although Alzheimer’s is deeply personal for every family it touches, it’s also a challenge scientists have been trying to understand for more than a century. Even with billions of dollars in research, a cure is still elusive and the number of people diagnosed each year continues to grow. Why don’t we know more, and, until a cure is found, how do we keep living well with the reality in front of us?
WHY SCIENCE NEEDS A WIDER LENS
Dr. Karl Herrup, neuroscientist and author of How Not to Study a Disease , says the core problem in Alzheimer’s research is that there isn’t a universally agreed-upon definition of the disease. Without a clear definition, it’s harder to diagnose, track or treat consistently.
Herrup’s definition is this:
“Alzheimer’s is a late-in-life disease that over the course of many years destroys
normal brain function in a progressive and irreversible fashion. Throughout the advance of the disease, the affected person is largely unaware of the dramatic nature of the changes happening to them. The inability to form new memories is one of the first signs there is a problem, followed by the inability to perform complex tasks. As the disease progresses, language and reasoning skills deteriorate, along with the ability to make judgments. Personality changes such as depression, irritability, aggression, agitation and outbursts worsen. For each of these, the severity increases with time. Through most of this, the physical health of the affected person remains strong; however, toward the end of their time with the disease, their physical health deteriorates.”
Herrup also notes that there are many types of dementia, and Alzheimer’s is just one of them. It is the most common form, and it affects women more often than men.
For decades, research has centered on one theory, the “amyloid hypothesis,” which holds that sticky protein clumps in the brain cause Alzheimer’s. While amyloid plaques are a hallmark of the disease, treatments targeting them have not yet delivered a cure. Herrup urges researchers to broaden their focus to other possible causes such as inflammation, immune function and vascular health. His perspective is a reminder to all of us, whether in the lab or at home, to stay open to more than one path forward.
LIFESTYLE AND ALZHEIMER’S RISK
While there is no known way to prevent Alzheimer’s, research shows that certain lifestyle choices can influence brain health and may help lower risk or delay the onset
of cognitive decline. These habits don’t guarantee protection, but they do strengthen the body and mind in ways that matter for overall well-being:
• St ay physically active. Regular movement improves blood flow to the brain and supports heart health.
• E at a nutrient-rich diet. Diets like the Mediterranean or MIND diet, high in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, fish, olive oil and nuts, are associated with better brain health.
• P rotect your sleep. Restorative sleep helps the brain clear waste products and supports memory.
• K eep learning. Reading, learning new skills and engaging in mentally stimulating activities help build cognitive reserve.
• St ay socially connected. Isolation can increase risk; meaningful relationships and community engagement stimulate the brain.
• Manag e chronic health conditions. High blood pressure, diabetes and obesity are linked to greater Alzheimer’s risk. Treating them helps protect the brain. Even after diagnosis, these habits can support quality of life for both the person with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers.
SEEING THE PERSON IN THE CHANGING MIND
Dr. Gayatri Devi, neurologist and author of The Spectrum of Hope , approaches Alzheimer’s through the lens of possibility. She reminds us that while the disease changes memory, language and behavior, it does not erase the person. Many traits, preferences and even bits of humor remain.
Her advice—don’t lose the person to the disease—has been a steadying anchor for me. It’s an invitation to see who they are today, not only who they used to be. My mother-inlaw no longer remembered my name, but she often knew I was familiar. That space between knowing and unknowing was still a place for love. The more we embraced her “new mind,” the more our own stress softened.
FOUR TIPS FOR CAREGIVERS: BLENDING SCIENCE AND COMPASSION
1. Remember the person is still there
It’s easy to focus on what’s been lost, but connection is still possible. Look for the cues: a familiar smile, the joy of a favorite food or the spark in their eyes when they hear a beloved song.
2. Adapt, don’t just resist change
As abilities shift, so should our approach. If conversation is hard, share time together through photos, music or gentle touch. Meeting patients where they are is an act of love.
3. Balance safety and independence
Wandering is a real risk, but safety doesn’t have to strip away dignity. Tools like ID bracelets, GPS trackers and safe walking spaces allow movement while reducing danger.
4. Stay curious about solutions
Just as researchers must look beyond a single theory, caregivers can try different ways to bring comfort and connection. Music therapy, nature time, aromatherapy and gentle exercise can all help.
REPLACING FEAR WITH CONNECTION
Alzheimer’s is a long goodbye, but it’s also a journey of learning to see differently. Science will continue to search for answers, and hopefully one day, a cure. Until then, we can meet the disease with presence, adaptability and compassion.
We can’t stop the changes Alzheimer’s brings. But we can choose to keep showing up with love—for the person they were, for the person they are and for the moments that still remain.
If you’d like to share your caregiving story or the strategies that have helped you, I’d love to hear from you. Email me at mjohns@ transforming-wellness.com.
Maggie Cookies
I WAS MAKING COOKIES WITH OUR OLDEST GRANDSON, MILES, THE OTHER DAY AND TRYING TO FIGURE OUT A WAY TO ADD A BIT OF SOMETHING HEALTHY INTO THE INGREDIENTS. I’M NOT ONE TO FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS. I TEND TO STRAY AND ADD MY OWN TWIST, SO BAKING WORKS ABOUT 50 PERCENT OF THE TIME FOR ME, BUT THESE WERE A HUGE HIT! WHEN I ASKED MILES WHAT WE SHOULD CALL THEM HE QUICKLY SAID, “MAGGIE COOKIES,” SO IT’S OFFICIAL AND I HOPE YOU ENJOY THESE COOKIES AND, EVEN BETTER, MAKING THEM WITH SOMEONE YOU LOVE.
INGREDIENTS
1 ½ CUPS OF BUTTER, SOFTENED
1 ½ CUPS WHITE SUGAR
2 CUPS BROWN SUGAR
4 EGGS
2 TSP. REAL VANILLA EXTRACT
4 CUPS ALL-PURPOSE FLOUR
1 TBSP. BAKING SODA
1 TSP. KOSHER SALT
1 ½ CUPS OATS
2 CUPS GRANOLA OF YOUR CHOICE (I USE TRADER JOE’S PEANUT BUTTER PROTEIN GRANOLA)
2 CUPS NUTS AND CRAN-RAISIN MIX (I USED TRADER JOE’S OMEGA TREX CRANBERRY AND ROASTED NUT BLEND)
1 CUP CRUSHED PEANUT BUTTER PRETZELS (ALSO FROM TRADER JOE’S)
2 CUPS CHOPPED CHOCOLATE PIECES, TOFFEE PIECES OR A MIX OF BOTH
INSTRUCTIONS
PREHEAT OVEN TO 375˚. CREAM BUTTER AND SUGARS. ADD EGGS AND VANILLA. NEXT ADD FLOUR, BAKING SODA AND SALT. ADD IN OATMEAL, GRANOLA AND CRANBERRY NUT BLEND. WITH A COOKIE SCOOP OR LARGE SPOON, DROP ONTO BAKING SHEET, TWO INCHES APART, AND BAKE FOR 15 MINUTES. THIS MADE 36 LARGE COOKIES. THEY ARE REALLY YUMMY WITH MORNING COFFEE AND SINCE THEY HAVE PROTEIN GRANOLA IN THEM, THEY ARE A HEALTHY BREAKFAST!
WELL, AT LEAST I AM GOING TO TELL MYSELF THAT!
SEPTEMBER 2025 SOURCES
HOME FEATURE
Special Thanks -
Selena McAdams
spruceshop.com
Stephanie Rawlinson stefanierawlinson.com
EXPERIENCE THIS
Special Thanks -
Enjoy Corinth corinth.net
TRAVEL
Special ThanksTravel Leaders
901.853.6200, 901.377.6600
HEALTHY YOU
Special Thanks -
Michelle Johns mjohns@transformingwellness.com
TEXT BY BETH OKEON | PHOTO BY GALLAGHER & ASSOCIATES
MEMPHIS COMPANY DEVELOPS INTERACTIVE DISPLAYS FOR MUSEUMS ACROSS THE U . S .
Mind Over Data, a Memphis-based company, develops software and interactive displays for some of the most visited museums and exhibits in the country.
The homegrown custom systems development and integration firm has created exhibits for the National Museum of African American Music in Nashville; the GRAMMY® Museums in Los Angeles and Cleveland, MS; the Woody Guthrie Center in Tulsa; and the Clinton Presidential Library and Museum in Little Rock, to name a few.
For the National Museum of African American Music, Mind Over Data created infrastructure that allows visitors to post parts of their museum experience to a personal website. Upon entering, museumgoers get an RFID bracelet enabling them to save “takeaways” like a playlist of their favorite songs from the
music kiosks that are uploaded to their personal website and stay active for 60 days after their visit.
“It’s kind of a way to bring the museum visit back with you and share it with others,” says Tom Kirstein, managing partner at Mind Over Data.
The firm also developed interactive displays for five kiosks where visitors can explore and listen to artists in different music categories: blues, gospel, R&B, hip hop and jazz. In addition to music, the kiosks display pictures and history about each artist.
Mind Over Data worked in tandem with New York-based Gallagher & Associates, as well as on installments at the Clinton Museum, the GRAMMY® Museums and the Woody Guthrie Center. Closer to home, Mind Over Data has built systems for Memphis-based brands including FedEx, International Paper, First Horizon, Hilton and ServiceMaster.
Just think, there’s a good chance that the next amazing interactive display you see at a museum might just have been conceived and built by this remarkable Memphis business. For more information on Mind Over Data, call 901.751.8866 or visit www.mind-over-data.com.
