Skip to main content

Brentwood, TN August 2026

Page 1


The Kids & Pets Issue

Tucked away on a private cul-de-sac, this exceptional Brentwood residence offers refined luxury, timeless design, and a breathtaking park-like backyard designed for effortless entertaining and everyday tranquility. Extensively reimagined with more than $400,000 in premium updates, the home showcases a new roof, new HVAC systems, a stunning spa-inspired primary bath, beautifully renovated secondary baths, new flooring, and designer lighting throughout. Every detail has been thoughtfully curated to create a home that feels both elegant and inviting.

The Kids & Pets Issue

While I don't have kids of my own yet, and I don't even have a pet to call my own (still debating that one),  I don't think you need either to understand how much children and animals shape the world around us. They're not just "the future,” they're the heartbeat of our communities right now.

I see it every time I'm around my niece or watching my friends navigate parenthood for the first time. There's something about a kid's laughter or their endless curiosity that resets your whole perspective. Watching the people I love pour so much into raising their kids has taught me just how much effort it takes and how much joy comes back in return.

The same goes for pets, even though I can't personally speak to it yet. I've watched friends and family members build these incredible bonds with their dogs and cats, and I've seen firsthand how much a pet can teach someone about empathy, responsibility, and unconditional love. It's a relationship I hope to have someday, but for now, I'm happy to be the honorary aunt to a lot of very good dogs.

At the core of it all, I think there's a simple truth: kids and pets need us, and somehow, they end up shaping us just as much as we shape them.

I hope this month's issue inspires you to pour a little extra love into the children and pets in your life, whether they're yours or someone else's. They're the ones who remind us of the simple joys and the importance of showing up for each other.

Here's to our future, our little ones, and the pets who make everything better. Cheers!

August 2026

PUBLISHER

Jennifer Downs | jennifer.downs@citylifestyle.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Sophie Brock | sophie.brock@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Stephanie Krejci | stephanie.krejci@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Stephanie Krejci | stephanie.krejci@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Brooke Houser | brooke.houser@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Sue Baldani, Sophie Brock, Morgan Raum, Mary Bell, Kali Kasprzk, Pauli Reep, Amy Tinnin

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Annabelle Ainlay, Lacey Poulton, Amanda Leise, Tia Sherie Photo, Sophie Brock, Jeff Moore, Sarah Kohrt, Robert Chavers, Curt Simshauser, Janie Jones

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford

LAYOUT DESIGNER Meredith Wilson

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

For more than 55 years, Brentwood Academy has served students in grades 6 through 12. Students are taught and coached by faculty who are experts in their field and serious about their faith, driven by the mission to nurture and challenge each whole person – body, mind, and spirit – to the glory of God.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

Schedule a tour at brentwoodacademy.com/starthere

inside the issue

Photography: Annabelle Ainlay

A NEW CHAPTER IN CLUB LIVING

Limited Pre-Sale Opportunities Now Available

GREAT LOCATION IN THE WILLIAMSON COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT
Artist Concept Rendering, Fairington Club Now Under Construction

HOW NASHVILLE COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS TURNED ONE UNIFORM DRIVE INTO A LIFELINE FOR STUDENTS

A DECADE OF SHOWING UP

ARTICLE BY SOPHIE BROCK PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

“WE

KEPT GROWING WITH SCHOOL UNIFORMS, THEN LEANED INTO ANOTHER NEED, AND PEOPLE LEANED IN WITH US.”

Back-to-school season stirs up a mix of emotions for students: the dread of homework, the excitement of reuniting with friends, and the hope of a fresh start. But for some kids, those feelings are a luxury. Before they can consider any of these things, they’re wrestling with circumstances that no child should have to face: where their next meal is coming from, whether their worn-out shoes will last the year, or where they’ll sleep that night.

That’s where Nashville Community Connections steps in.

NCC partners with Metro Nashville Public Schools to ensure children experiencing housing instability have what they need to show up and be ready to learn. Working directly with each family’s unique circumstances, the organization connects students with school supplies, clothing, hygiene products, food, transportation, and more. It all began with a single act of generosity: a mom named Jami Oakley, who started a school uniform donation drive at her son’s school and sparked something much bigger.

“I had no idea when I started collecting school uniforms at my son’s elementary school that we would be here 10 years later

and doing so much and having such a big impact in the lives of families,” Jami explains. “I think the sweet and beautiful thing about this story, which is so reflective of how good Nashville is, is that we were only able to rise up and grow as the community responded. We kept growing with school uniforms, then leaned into another need, and people leaned in with us.”

The impact speaks for itself. Over the past decade, NCC has served more than 33,000 students, distributed more than 168,000 articles of clothing, partnered with more than 250 organizations, and grown to offer 10 programs, with roughly 40,000 articles of clothing going out to students each year. On July 14, the organization marked a milestone: ten years of showing up for Nashville’s kids. And if Jami’s story is any indication, the next ten years are only going to be bigger. At the heart of it all is a simple understanding of what students are really carrying.

“You’re out in the world navigating emotions for the first time and navigating people and learning every day, and it’s a lot,” Jami says. “I think that’s why a lot of our programs and our

support resonate with people because everybody’s been a student and things were not so easy all the time, and if I didn’t have a pair of shoes that fit, that would have maybe sent me over the edge.”

No need is too big or too small for NCC. Through partnerships with organizations like Soles4Souls, which provides brand-new shoes to students in need, NCC can meet kids where they are and then look a little deeper. Something as simple as a pair of shoes can open the door to a much bigger conversation.

“Shoes in particular are a good window in,” she says. “It’s a really good entry point into ‘Hey, let’s talk about other things. What else is going on? How else can I help you?’ So a lot of these things serve in that way.”

Each of their programs is designed to meet students wherever they are and follow them as far as they need to go. Among the organization’s most noteworthy efforts are their partnership with the MNPS’s HERO programs, which include the HERO Family Fund that provides critical flexible funding to meet immediate needs for families. NCC’S newest initiative, Beyond Graduation, extends that support past the high school finish line, helping young people find their footing as they step into the next chapter of life.

“We’re so lucky that people trust us,” Jami says. “The families we serve trust us to share their needs with us, and we’re able to make a lot of good things happen.”

For more information on how to volunteer, host a drive, or stay up to date with Nashville Community Connections, follow them on social media or visit their website.

@nashvillecommunityconnections nashvillecommunityconnections.org

Because They’re Family.

Dr. Christina Rahm has built her career around developing science-backed wellness products with the same attention to quality she’d expect for her own family. Their love for animals inspired Dr. Christina Rahm and Clayton Thomas to create Bill & Coo, bringing the same science backed standards to pet wellness that have guided their work for years. Every formula is developed by Dr. Rahm using human-grade ingredients and manufactured in our own U.S. facility.

Because family comes with four legs, too.

AT FIBER, FEATHER & FUR FARM, ALPACAS, GREAT PYRENEES, AND HANDWOVEN ART COME TOGETHER ON 10 WOODED ACRES

A FAIRYTALE

FARM IN THE WOODS

Tucked away on 10 wooded acres in Middle Tennessee, Fiber, Feather & Fur Farm is the kind of place that encourages visitors to slow down. The sound of humming alpacas, curious ducks greeting guests at the driveway, and towering Great Pyrenees quietly watching over the animals create an atmosphere that feels peaceful from the moment you arrive.

For owner Shani Sprague, creating that experience has been more than 20 years in the making.

Sprague’s journey began after graduating from Michigan State University with a degree in interior design. During a trip to California, a friend suggested they stop by an alpaca farm. At the time, Sprague had never even heard of an alpaca.

“I’ve always loved textiles and natural fibers,” she says. “When I learned about alpaca fiber and all the beautiful things that could be created from it, I was completely fascinated.”

That visit sparked a passion that never faded. Over the next two decades, Sprague and her son made a point to visit alpaca farms whenever they traveled. Whether they were in Florida, Washington, Canada, or South Carolina, they searched for local farms where they could tour the property or even volunteer for the day.

“We’d scoop poop if it meant we could learn something,” Sprague says with a laugh. “I just wanted to know everything about alpacas.”

After visiting nearly 20 farms and learning from breeders across the country, she finally opened Fiber, Feather & Fur Farm in 2020. Today, the property is home to alpacas, llamas, chickens, ducks, geese, honeybees, and Great Pyrenees livestock guardian dogs. Every animal has a purpose, whether it’s producing fiber, laying eggs, protecting the herd, or helping visitors experience life on a working farm.

Although the farm has grown far beyond what she originally imagined, alpacas remain at the center of everything.

“I love their gentle personalities and the incredible fiber they produce,” Sprague says. “They’re calm, curious animals, and working with them never gets old.”

Each spring, the alpacas are sheared, providing soft fleece that Sprague transforms into handwoven rugs and textile artwork. While the rugs have become one of the farm’s signature products, creating fiber art is still her favorite part of the process.

“The rugs pay the bills,” she says, “but the art has my heart.”

Visitors will also find fresh eggs from the farm’s colorful flock of chickens, honey produced by the farm’s beehives, and homemade elderberry syrup made with that same honey. Sprague intentionally keeps production small, preferring to focus on quality and serving her local community rather than expanding into large-scale shipping.

Walking through the property, it quickly becomes clear that Fiber, Feather & Fur Farm is about much more than products. Native grasses and wildflowers surround the pastures, honeybees pollinate the landscape, and every part of the farm has been designed to work with nature instead of against it.

Sprague often describes the property as “a fairy tale in the woods,” and it’s easy to understand why. The winding driveway, towering trees, and open pastures create a quiet setting that feels worlds away from the busy pace of everyday life.

That peaceful atmosphere is one of the biggest reasons families continue to visit.

Private tours allow guests to hand-feed alpacas, meet the other animals, and ask questions about daily life on the farm. Throughout the year, Fiber, Feather & Fur Farm also hosts educational programs, wellness retreats, business gatherings and community events that bring people together outdoors.

Children especially enjoy meeting the alpacas, ducks, and geese, while adults often find themselves just as captivated by the experience.

“Many people arrive feeling busy or stressed and leave feeling relaxed and refreshed,” Sprague says. “There’s something special about spending time with animals and nature.”

The farm’s Great Pyrenees are another favorite among visitors. Towering over most dogs, these gentle guardians spend their days protecting the livestock while welcoming guests with calm, affectionate personalities.

“Our Great Pyrenees dogs definitely steal the show,” Sprague says. “They’re incredibly loyal, gentle, and protective.”

For Sprague, they are more than working dogs. They are family. Several generations of the dogs now live on the farm, teaching younger puppies how to guard the animals and work together. Their loyalty has even saved livestock from predators, reinforcing just how important they are to daily life on the farm.

Looking ahead, Sprague hopes to continue growing Fiber, Feather & Fur Farm without losing the sense of peace that makes it so special. Rather than expanding into a large commercial operation, she wants to continue offering meaningful experiences that bring people closer to nature and one another.

“I want the farm to remain a special place where people can slow down and enjoy nature,” she says.

That simple goal seems to resonate with nearly everyone who visits. Guests often linger after tours have ended, reluctant to leave the quiet setting they have come to enjoy.

For families searching for a unique outing, animal lovers hoping to meet alpacas, or anyone looking for a peaceful afternoon outdoors, Fiber, Feather & Fur Farm offers something increasingly difficult to find. It is a place where craftsmanship, agriculture and community come together, and where visitors are reminded that sometimes the best experiences are also the simplest.

@fiberfeatherandfurfarm

Crowned

Currently serving as Miss Music Row, Jana Hahn is using her platform to raise awareness about obsessive-compulsive disorder through advocacy and her self-published children's book, My Friend Rodger: An OCD Narrative For Kids.

With Purpose

Jana Hahn wears many titles: from earning several crowns in the Miss America Organization to becoming the author of her very own self-published children’s book, My Friend Rodger: An OCD Narrative For Kids, the 27-year-old continues to make a vast difference in our community and beyond. Currently serving as Miss Music Row, Jana’s passion for helping others stems from a deeply personal experience that began in childhood; At ten years old, she was diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Before learning there was a reason and a

name for the things she was doing—such as washing her hands repeatedly at school, avoiding going to certain restaurants and stores, sitting on only one spot on the couch, etc.—Jana felt alone and confused as to why her brain worked differently from those of her peers. OCD contributed to her anxiety, and by adulthood, it had become increasingly difficult to manage. She and her family ultimately decided it was time to seek treatment, so at the age of twenty, she spent two months in Florida at Rogers Behavioral Health, a nationwide mental health treatment center offering intensive outpatient and partial hospitalization programs for children, teens, and adults, to work on recovery.

“Within the Miss America opportunity, we all have a platform as delegates that we advocate for—I’ve worked with mental health organizations in the past couple of years due to [my] personal experience,” Jana explains. “Advocating with the crown and sash as my microphone, I started sharing and doing more work within our community, really trying to find ways to plug individuals into treatment centers or provide resources—educationally, financially, or in any type of way that I could provide support.”

Although Jana began experiencing symptoms of OCD at a young age, neither she nor her family recognized what she was experiencing or understood what OCD was at the time. Driven by a lifelong passion for helping others, Jana was inspired to create resources that help children better understand their brains and navigate challenges with confidence—offering the guidance and reassurance she wishes she had as a child. To bring that vision to life, she wrote the first

draft of a children’s book intended to help children understand and navigate the same emotions she once experienced. Several years later, Jana began working for a book manufacturing company here in Nashville. As she dove further and further into the publishing world, she knew the stars were aligning for her to fulfill a lifelong dream: it was time to publish her book. The title, My Friend Rodger: An OCD Narrative For Kids, acts as a nod to Roger’s Behavioral Health, as this was where Jana’s journey to recovery began. In the story, Jana personifies OCD as ‘Rodger,’ a character who represents the intrusive thoughts and distressing emotions that often accompany the disorder. Through the eyes of a young girl, readers learn how giving OCD a name can make it easier to recognize, understand, and stand up to. As she begins to confront her ‘Rodger,’ she discovers that she is stronger than her thoughts—and that confidence and hope are possible.

“There are a lot of mental health resources for adults, but when it comes to children, there are not that many,” Jana shares. “I really wanted to

create something that could not only help children but also be a resource to those around them also walking in that journey—whether it’s parents, teachers, or family membersbecause it affects the whole family dynamic.”

Jana hopes that My Friend Rodger: An OCD Narrative For Kids will help eradicate the stigma that OCD is just a habit or a phase. She also wants to help give children a resource to feel less alone and more understood in their mental health journeys. To purchase a copy of the book, visit the book’s website or keep up with Jana on social media.

@janahahn4

my-friend-rodger.myshopify.com

“ADVOCATING

WITH THE CROWN AND SASH AS MY MICROPHONE, I STARTED SHARING AND DOING MORE WORK WITHIN OUR COMMUNITY, REALLY TRYING TO FIND WAYS TO PLUG INDIVIDUALS INTO TREATMENT CENTERS OR PROVIDE RESOURCES— EDUCATIONALLY, FINANCIALLY, OR IN ANY TYPE OF WAY THAT I COULD PROVIDE SUPPORT.”

175 County Road 115, Crane Hill, AL 35053

$1,497,000 | beds: 4 | baths: 3.5 | sqft: 3,572

Smith Lake | Lakeshore West

Luxury lakefront living awaits in the coveted Lakeshore West community on Smith Lake. Set on one of the area’s most desirable waterfront lots with an exceptionally gentle walk to the water, this beautifully updated full-brick home offers effortless elegance inside and out.

The open living spaces feature gas fireplaces in both the great room and the primary suite, while the modern kitchen is appointed with a gas range and solid surface countertops. The spa-inspired primary bath showcases a soaking tub and sleek glass shower.

Designed for entertaining, the lower level includes a spacious recreation room, wet bar, guest suite, full bath, and garage. Outside, enjoy a large screened porch overlooking the lake, an aluminum dock with boat lift and swim pier, and crystal-clear waterfront framed by a manicured lawn with convenient pet-friendly water access.

A rare opportunity to own one of Smith Lake’s most exceptional waterfront properties.

Justin Dyar, the leading realtor on Smith Lake with over 2 Billion in Waterfront

MOUNTAIN Retreat FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

Inside Pendry Park City, designed for every month of the year

Tucked into Canyons Village at Park City Mountain, Pendry Park City has quickly become an example of how a ski resort can feel both grand and genuinely welcoming to families. With 175 thoughtfully designed guestrooms and residences by SB Architects and KES Studio, a roster of restaurants and lounges anchored by the destination-worthy KITA, and family-minded touches including the Paintbox children’s club and ski-in convenience via Compass Sports, the property was clearly built with more than a single season in mind. With a full-service spa, fitness center, and curated art collection rounding out the experience, there’s something here for every member of the family.

“Our vision is simple: to be the premier luxury mountain resort where guests can return season after season and discover something entirely new each time they visit,” said John Rolfs, general manager of Pendry Park City.

That family-first approach extends well beyond the standard amenities. Paintbox delivers engaging, age-appropriate programming year-round, while summer opens things up even further

with guided hikes, UTV adventures, and poolside afternoons, and even the family’s pets don’t have to sit any of it out.

“Pendry Park City genuinely caters to every member of the family, including four-legged ones,” said John. “The resort is pet-welcoming, with amenities that make traveling with animals easy and stress-free. Our spacious suites and residences give families room to truly spread out, and the resort’s seamless flow from one experience to the next means less logistics and more quality time together.”

As Pendry Park City continues to expand its offerings, the resort is proving itself to be far more than a ski destination. Future investments are set to deepen their focus on wellness, culinary programming, outdoor adventure, and family travel, but the foundation is already well in place.

“At Pendry Park City, it’s always peak season,” said John. “We don’t just sell a location, we sell curated, year-round experiences designed to make every month feel like the right time to visit. There’s always something new to discover.”

"Pendry Park City genuinely caters to every member of the family, including four-legged ones," said John.

Winter at Pendry Park City means direct access to 7,300 acres of terrain via the Sunrise Gondola, just steps from the hotel, with the season’s edges softened by hot tub soaks, après cocktails at The Pool House, and evenings around the plaza fire pits. A typical ski day starts with a slopeside breakfast at KITA or Après Pendry while the Compass Sports valet team preps the gear and ends just as smoothly. Boots traded for slippers, a soak on the rooftop, maybe a deep-tissue recovery at Spa Pendry, before dinner on-property and complimentary s’mores by the fire.

The moment the snow melts, the resort shifts gears entirely. Guided mountain biking, fly fishing, and culinary-driven excursions take over, joined by signature seasonal moments like Lunar Libations, a stargazing and mocktail ritual under the night sky, and KITA’s Summer Omakase. The setting only sharpens the appeal: tucked into Canyons Village with 400-plus miles of hiking and biking trails just outside the door, a complimentary shuttle to Historic Main Street’s restaurants and galleries, and a short drive from the Utah Olympic Park. With Salt Lake City International Airport just 35 minutes out, it’s a rare case of a mountain resort that’s both a destination in itself and remarkably easy to reach.

From sunrise to last call, Pendry Park City has designed every hour of the stay around a single intention: to make it effortless. The rhythm shifts with the season, the weather, even the mood of the day, but the ease never does. That, in many ways, is the whole point.

For more information or to book your next family vacation, visit their website or follow them on social media. @pendryparkcity pendry.com/park-city

A FAMILY JEWEL

Creating a legacy that stands the test of time

“Jewelry is not just a shiny item. It’s a marker of time,” says Salem Emamalie, the owner of Brentwood Jewelry & Gifts. One could also say that his family business is also a marker of time.

"I love seeing all the people I have met through the years, seeing their smiles, and seeing their children.”

As a young boy living in Trinidad, he started working for his brother-in-law at age 11. “I watched him make handmade jewelry. We didn’t have the machinery, so everything was done by hand, and I helped him. We were creators, and that’s what inspired my love for making art and making jewelry.”

Many years later, when Salem returned from Vietnam in 1968 (he served with the Army Special Forces), he began working for several mom-and-pop jewelry stores near his military base at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. “They were very small, and because of my ability, they could not keep me busy enough.”

In 1970, he arrived in Nashville and started working for Morris Jewelers. “At that time, they were the largest jewelry store besides Nashville Gold and Silver in Nashville,” says Salem.

He eventually opened his own jewelry shop, E&K Manufacturers. (The E stood for Emamalie and the K stood for King, which was the last name of his partner back then.)

They did a lot of work for what was then Brentwood Jewelry, and Salem told the owner that if he ever wanted to sell, Salem wanted to buy it. “I was working one day, and he put a piece of paper in front of me to buy it, and that’s how we acquired the name,” he says. “I still have E&K Manufacturers on the door because that’s how we started.”

His wife, Debbie, worked with him in the store, and when their first son, Brandon, was born, they brought him to work with them. “We raised Brandon in the store,” says Salem. “We had a playpen, and later he would just run around the store.”

As Brandon grew, customers would often come in to visit him. “They didn’t come to see the jewelry. They came to play with him.”

Brandon stayed on the premises until age 5, when he went to kindergarten. “He eventually went to college and has a degree in commercial design and landscaping, but he decided to come work with me full-time,” says Salem. That was 13 years ago, and today, Brandon designs jewelry and helps run the store alongside his father.

Salem’s youngest son, Blake, is a fireman and an EMT in Nashville, but he also helps out in the store. “He comes here on his days off. Blake is a wizard with watches and can tell you anything about a watch.”

Salem’s two brothers also work for him. “Frank is one of our artists, and Errol is a gemologist,” he says. His grandson, 26-year-old Brandon Jr., also joined the business a few years ago. “He is Brandon’s boy, and so now we’re on the third generation.”

Over the years, Salem’s daughter, nieces, nephews and cousins have also been part of the family business at one time or another, and he considers his employees family too. “Many of them have been with me 40 to 45 years, and some since the beginning,” he says.

When people mention the legacy he has built over the last 50-plus years, he doesn’t like to take the credit. “I may be the person who started it, but it takes everybody to make it work,” says Salem. “I could not do this by myself.”

When customers ask for the owner, Salem tells them, “It’s you. Without you walking through our doors, this business wouldn’t exist. We’re simply its caretakers.”

And there is a lot to take care of and oversee.

Brentwood Jewelry & Gifts has a wide assortment of bridal jewelry, baby jewelry, colored gemstones, pearls, and more.

The master jewelers are experts at designing custom pieces as well as repurposing family heirlooms into more modern, wearable pieces that still reflect the original piece’s meaning. New high-end and heirloom watches are also offered, along with watch repair.

“I may be the person who started it, but it takes everybody to make it work,” says Salem. “I could not do this by myself.”

The store also carries unique gift items such as writing instruments, leather goods, money clips, cufflinks, and picture frames.

“For me, it is not about the things, and it’s not about the money,” he says. “I work more than anybody else. I’m still here six days a week, but I leave it up to others to make decisions, and whatever decisions they make, I stand behind them.”

One of Salem’s greatest joys is working beside his staff and greeting his customers, whom he’s come to know very well over the years. “They

feel like family. I love seeing all the people I have met through the years, seeing their smiles, and seeing their children.”

Many of these children, now adults, stop in to tell him about a special piece he designed and how they’re wearing it as a remembrance of a parent. “That gives me a lot of fulfillment because I can see how things I created have become a piece of legacy that has traveled through time.”

@brentwoodjewelry BrentwoodJewelry.com

At

lifestyle.

From spotless interiors and beautifully maintained landscapes to remodeling, design, maintenance, curated gifts and personalized home management, our ser vices are seamlessly coordinated through one trusted syst em

Ever y visit is intentional. Ever y detail is considered. Ever y space is cared for as though it were our own.

Whether preparing your home for guests, maintaining it while you're away, or creating an environment that feels effor tlessly ref ined ever y day, Florivale allows you to spend less time managing your home and more time enjoying it

OUR SERVICES

Residential Cleaning

Beautifully maintained spaces

Landscaping

Outdoor spaces designed to feel as inviting and ref ined as the home they surround

Remodeling & Design

Thoughtfully crafted designs that reflect elegance and effortless living

Home Maintenance

Preventative care and expert craftsmanship that keep your home performing beautifully all year round

Home Concierge

One trusted team coordinating every detail, f rom seasonal upkeep to everyday convenience

Full Service Home Packages

A comprehensive approach to home management, bringing every essential service together through one seamless experience

#1 Real Estate Team in Tennessee

Leveraging real estate resources with a creative and tenacious spirit, the LCT Team of Onward Real Estate are experts in delivering a synergy of success for each client with long-time REALTOR® Lisa Culp Taylor as team leader. We are ready to help you buy or sell a home in the Franklin, Brentwood, or Nashville areas - and we have the experience and knowledge to make the whole process easier for you. View listings at LCTTeam.com.

HOW MODERN HOMES ARE EVOLVING TO BRING ORDER, FUNCTION AND CALM TO BUSY FAMILY LIFE

THE FAMILY

CENTER COMMAND

Pantry

Behind every beautiful home is a closet working overtime.

No matter how stunning the kitchen is or how perfectly styled the living room looks, real life usually happens somewhere between the mudroom, the pantry and the frantic search for a missing soccer cleat five minutes before school drop-off. For today’s families, luxury is no longer just about beautiful finishes or square footage. Increasingly, it is about function, organization and creating a home that supports everyday life.

Increasingly, the most valuable rooms in the home are not always the grand kitchens or formal living spaces. They are the hardworking spaces quietly keeping life

“THE ORGANIZATION OF THESE SPACES HELPS TO KEEP HOMES OF BUSY FAMILIES MUCH LESS CHAOTIC.”

on track. Sandra Sokol, owner of Closets by Design, has seen this shift firsthand. “Homeowners are definitely compartmentalizing their spaces,” Sokol said. “Homes are all open-concept now, but consumers are looking for ways to create specific areas for each specific need.”

That shift has led to growing demand for intentional spaces designed around modern family life. Mudrooms, drop zones and customized storage are helping families better manage daily routines. “Mud Rooms or ‘Drop’ areas for shoes, bags, etc, when they get home,” Sokol said. “Clients want storage for sporting equipment to keep it from ending up all over the home and garage. We all want ‘a place’ for everything.”

Spaces once considered secondary, such as closets, pantries and laundry rooms, are now central to keeping a household running smoothly. “Today's Moms and Dads are working and have kids with full schedules,” Sokol said. “The organization of these spaces helps to keep homes of busy families much less chaotic.”

Thoughtful design helps eliminate daily stressors that many families know well. A missing shoe can derail a morning. A cluttered pantry can turn snack time into a scavenger hunt. Laundry piles can quickly become overwhelming.

“If you give a Mom an organized closet, you may be saving her those 15 minutes that she needs to be able to have

Closet with Island

breakfast with her children before she leaves for work,” Sokol said. “Those minutes add up and allow for more calm in a person’s daily life.”

For local families balancing elevated living with packed schedules, that balance between beauty and practicality matters more than ever. “Once we have planned a very functional space that meets the client’s needs, we then have the fun of layering on the customization with accessories, colors, collections and other upgraded options,” says Sokol.

The rise of remote and hybrid work has also changed what families need from their homes. Home offices now serve multiple purposes, functioning as workspaces, guest rooms and flexible family spaces. “Remote work really skyrocketed during Covid,” Sokol said. “Since then, we have seen a continued rise in our clients needing home offices that can also serve other needs.”

At the core of every successful design is one simple principle: everything needs a home. “Finding a specific place for items solves the endless searching for these needed items when you are trying to get out the door for work, play or any activity,” Sokol said. The impact goes far beyond organization. A thoughtfully organized home creates calmer mornings, smoother routines and less daily stress. For many families, the greatest luxury is a home that makes everyday life feel easier, calmer and more connected. After all, a beautifully organized home may not solve every problem, but it can at least help you find the missing cleat!

ClosetsByDesign.com

Garage with storage
Wall Bed

F r o m a i r p o r t a n n o u n c e m e n t s a n d f a m i l y c o n v e r s a t i o n s

t o s t r e a m i n g m u s i c , G P S d i r e c t i o n s , a n d h a n d s - f r e e a l l s , m o d e r n h e a r i n g t e c h n o l o g y i s d e s i g n e d t o k e e p y o u

c o n n e c t e d w h e r e v e r s u m m e r t a k e s y o u .

R E M E M B E R T H E S E H E A R I N G A I D T R A V E L T I P S :

k c h a r g e r s o r e x t r a b a t t e r i e s

U s e B l u e t o o t h f o r e a s i e r t r a v e l l i s t e n i n g

D o n ’ t f o r g e t h e a r i n g p r o t e c t i o n f o r

c o n c e r t s a n d f i r e w o r k s

T r a v e l i n g s o o n ? S c h e d u l e y o u r s u m m e r h e a r i n g c h e c k t o d a y .

A q u i c k c l e a n - a n d - c h e c k b e f o r e v a c a t i o n c a n h e l p m a k e s u r e y o u r

h e a r i n g t e c h n o l o g y i s r e a d y f o r t h e a d v e n t u r e .

Walker Hayes: Beyond the Spotlight H

Walker Hayes Is More Than A Country Music Phenomenon—As A Dedicated Husband and Father To Six Kids, He Proves That Family Is His Greatest Hit.

While Walker Hayes may be known around the world as a chart-topping country music star, his favorite title he holds is "Dad." Before fame, the father of six spent 17 years in Nashville writing songs, hoping for a breakthrough. His family has been a driving force behind his career every step of the way. In fact, his daughter, Lela, played a pivotal role in introducing millions of new fans to her dad's music, something that led to one of the biggest moments of his career.

Photo by Curt Simshauser

Growing up in Mobile, Alabama, music had always been on his mind. He met his wife, Laney, in his junior year of high school when they both performed in their school production of Little Shop of Horrors. While Walker claims Laney had no business hanging out with someone like him, he won her over by graduation, and the two spent the next four years dating long distance while she was away at school. Walker stayed in Alabama, studying music—Piano, specifically—at Birmingham-Southern College. In 2004, the newly married couple moved to Music City to chase his dream of a career in country music. Laney has been his support for over two decades, proving true love means being there for the highest of highs and lowest of lows.

While Walker is now known for his sharp lyrics and catchy melodies, the road to success wasn’t easy. At the end of 2005, Walker and Laney welcomed Lela, the oldest of their six children—Walker still working hard to land a record deal. Before his hit song “Fancy Like” took flight, he picked up overnight shifts at Costco, stocking and restocking the shelves to support his family. During that time, he was also struggling with alcohol, ultimately making the life-changing decision to get sober in 2016 as he worked to rebuild stability for himself and his family. It was in the moments he truly began questioning if a career in music was in the cards for him, that one video and one song changed everything.

In 2020, Lela created choreography for Walker’s song, “Fancy Like,” and encouraged him to dance with her in a video to post on social media. To their surprise, both the song and the dance quickly went viral, as people across the country began learning the dance and sharing their own videos set to the track. The song went on to dominate the charts, earn widespread industry acclaim, and receive a Grammy nomination for Best Country Song—marking Walker's first-ever

Grammy nomination. Although the breakthrough seemed to happen overnight, it was the result of years of dedication and hard work, making Walker anything but an overnight success. From singing backup vocals on stage, drumming with his band, and writing on their own, the Hayes kids have proven that the music genes are in their blood, too.

“They have seen the glamorous sides of the industry, and have also seen the random alleys we wake up in down the street from the arena on the bus,” Walker explains. “I hope that we are always able to be this close and share these experiences together. We are a band—and I don’t mean that in the music sense—but we support each other in everything we do and are a true team.”

When he is not on stage, Walker can often be found coaching his sons in basketball. This past season, he had the opportunity to coach all three of his sons on the same high school team, making memories he shares will last him a lifetime. Family has always been at the center of Walker's life, and he has remained deeply committed to being a present husband and father. Whether he's writing songs inspired by his family, cheering from the sidelines, or spending time at home with his wife and children, Walker's greatest joy is investing in the people he loves most.

“I’m very aware that everything in life is a season, and I was in the season of coaching my three sons on the same high school basketball team and kept thinking, ‘Well, if things get better than this—I’m not sure it’s possible for things to get better than they are right now,” he shares.

Walker explains that writing honest and personal songs for his family are the easiest songs for him to write. Many of his lyrics are inspired by his family and their experiences. Last year, Walker released his latest record 17 Problems, which features the track “Song for My Son.” The story offers a personal reflection

Photo by Robert Chavers
Photo by Annabelle Ainlay

“I hope that we are always able to be this close and share these experiences together. We are a band—and I don’t mean that in the music sense—but we support each other in everything we do and are a true team.”

by

Photo
Sarah Kohrt
Photo by Jeff Moore

on fatherhood and the experience of watching his boys grow up. In it, he opens up about his own struggles and the effort it takes to become the best version of himself, with the hope of giving his sons the foundation to grow into their own best selves. He also captures the fatherhood perspective in “Taylor Swift,” a song he released on his 2023 album, New Money. The track recounts taking his daughter, Loxley, to her ninth birthday celebration at Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour. The lyrics mention buying way-too-expensive tickets, sitting in the nosebleeds, and the joy he felt watching his daughter light up and sing along to every word of her hero’s songs. While Loxley was in awe of the night, Walker’s favorite part was when she fell asleep in his arms.

“In the moment, she didn’t realize that she fell asleep at the concert and she definitely didn’t realize how much it meant to me to sit there and hold her while she slept until she heard the song back,” Walker explains.

It is evident that Walker draws major inspiration from his family, both in his music and beyond. He even created a clothing line, Duck Buck Co., to reflect everyday life—from lounging in the backyard to hopping off stage. Born from Walker’s life as a country music artist, family man, and everyday guy, Duck Buck Co. blends the worlds of athleisure and casual wear to create pieces that look great, feel amazing, and can keep up with the hustle of daily life.

“I lean towards the athleisure type of clothing because, hey, what if a pickup game of basketball breaks out, or I need to do some squats?” Walker laughs. “It’s important for me to be able to do those things in the same

clothes—and then wear those same clothes to go on a date or hang with my family.”

In addition to writing songs, Walker is gearing up to make his act ing debut in Guarding Stars day romance coming to Netflix later this year. The highly anticipated film is based off of Katherine Center’s bestselling novel The Bodyguard

To keep up with all things Walker Hayes, follow him on Instagram and stay up to date on his website.

@walkerhayes

walkerhayes.com

walkerhayes.com

Sarah Khort

WOOFstock

Brentwood Lifestyle Sits Down with Baxter Bailey & Company And Discuss WOOFstock held on August 15th

HOW DID BAXTER BAILEY & COMPANY START?

The company began with one spoiled dog named Baxter.

After adopting Baxter, we started making treats at home because we wanted something better for our own dog - simple recipes made with ingredients we could recognize and feel good about feeding. What started as a way to spoil Baxter quickly turned into a passion for creating high-quality treats. We began selling to family and friends and then at local events and markets.

Along the way, Bailey joined the family, and the two pups became the inspiration behind everything we do. Today, Baxter Bailey & Company has grown into Nashville's first dog ice creamery, bakery, and boutique, but at its heart, it's still about celebrating the special bond between people and their dogs.

Unfortunately, Baxter is no longer with us and was nearly 16 when he passed in 2025. The spirit and love he brought to our family inspired the entire business.

YOU GUYS OFFER A PLETHORA OF THINGS FOR PET OWNERS AND THEIR PETS. CAN YOU TELL ME ABOUT SOME OF THEM?

Absolutely! We like to think of ourselves as a destination for dogs and the people who love them.

We're probably best known for our bakery and dog ice creamery, where pups can enjoy fresh-baked treats, custom cookies, and dogfriendly ice cream sundaes and take-home tubs. We also carry a carefully curated selection of toys, accessories, gifts, and specialty products that we love and use ourselves.

One thing that makes us unique is that we're always looking for ways to create experiences that pet owners can share with their fur baby(ies), not just sell products, which helps celebrate that special bond. Whether it's celebrating a birthday, grabbing a muttuccino (our version of a pup cup) or a sundae after a walk or trip to the vet, or attending one of our themed events, we want every visit to feel special.

IN YOUR OWN WORDS, HOW DID WOOFSTOCK COME TO BE?

Our team is constantly looking for creative ways to celebrate our pets, and event themes are a big part of that.

Nashville is known as a city that LOVES music and knows how to celebrate. Shawna, our resident "Treat Lady", had this great idea that dogs deserved their own music festival. Combining that spirit with our love for dogs, it felt like a natural fit.

WOOFstock was inspired by the fun, free-spirited energy of the original Woodstock era - but with more wagging tails and significantly less mud. We wanted an event that encouraged

people to slow down, have fun, connect with fellow dog lovers, and make memories with their pups - and some cats!

Over the years, events have become one of our favorite traditions because it perfectly captures what Baxter Bailey & Company is all about: community, creativity, and love for animals.

WHAT CAN PEOPLE (AND PUPS) EXPECT AT THIS YEAR'S WOOFSTOCK?

WOOFstock is shaping up to be one of our most colorful and fun events yet.

Visitors can expect themed bakery treats and photo opportunities, free Muttuccinos, and special product discounts. We encourage everyone to embrace their inner flower child, so you'll see lots of tie-dye, peace signs, and retro-inspired fun.

Of course, the real stars of the show are the dogs. Whether they're social butterflies or just there for the treats, every pup is welcome. CONTINUED >

BESIDES WOOFSTOCK, DO YOU HAVE ANY OTHER EXCITING EVENTS COMING UP?

We do! One thing our customers quickly learn is that we love a good theme and party.

After WOOFstock, we're excited about our Canine Cryptid Club happening in September. It's a celebration of legendary creatures like Bigfoot, Mothman, and other mysterious favorites - but with a dog-friendly twist. There will be themed treats and photo opportunities. We also have our annual Halloween and Holiday events.

Our events have become a big part of who we are because they give people a reason to gather, laugh, and create memories with their pets, friends, and family. We have something fun planned nearly every month. Our full event listings for the year are available on our social media pages.

WHAT ARE YOU MOST LOOKING FORWARD TO AT THIS EVENT?

For us, it's always the dogs - getting to see regular friends and meeting new ones, the love and excitement they bring is contagious.

We spend months planning these events, but the best part is seeing everyone show up and fully embrace the theme. Watching a dog's excitement when they get a treat they like or seeing families take photos together is what makes all the work worthwhile.

WOOFstock will be especially fun because people are really leaning into the theme. At each event, we are constantly amazed by the creativity, costumes, and sense of community that develops throughout the day - and over each event - friendships and familial-type bonds form.

THIS IS FOR OUR KIDS & PETS ISSUE! ANYTHING ELSE YOU WANT TO MENTION?

One thing both kids and pets have in common is that they remind us to enjoy life's simple moments.

Some of our favorite memories happen when families visit togetherkids picking out treats for their dogs, celebrating birthdays, or stopping in after school for a special outing. Those experiences often become traditions, and we're honored to be a small part of them.

At Baxter Bailey & Company, we believe dogs aren't just pets - they're family. If we can create a place where families can spend time together, make memories, and leave with a smile, then we've done our job.

@baxterbaileycompany baxterbaileycompany.com

GATEWAY

EVERY BABY DESERVES

Birth & Baby Education

From birth doulas and childbirth classes to postpartum care and sleep support, we've got every stage of your birth and postpartum journey covered.

From preconception to postpartum, get expert nutrition support for blood sugar balance, sustained energy, recovery, and realistic meal planning.

Prepare for birth and beyond with expert-led classes in childbirth, HypnoBirthing®, VBAC, breastfeeding, home birth preparation, and newborn care—designed to help you feel informed, empowered, and confident every step of the way.

You don't have to do it alone

From the moment you see two pink lines, until long after your baby arrives..Nashville Doula Services is here for every step. For more than 10 years, we've helped thousands of Middle Tennessee families experience pregnancy, birth, and postpartum with confidence through personalized, evidencebased support.

TREY & KATIE KENNEDY

ON MARRIAGE, KIDS, AND THE COMEDY OF REAL LIFE

Trey Kennedy makes a living finding comedy in regular life. Marriage. Toddlers. Yoga pants. The Thursday-night scramble between school dropoffs, soccer practice, and whatever has to be done by morning. Twelve years in, it shows: millions of followers across every platform, three stand-up specials, a sold-out Relatable Tour, and a style of humor fans send each other captioned, “Are you watching me?” He delivers the kind of comedy that travels because everyone’s living some version of it.

Katie, his wife of six years, is a former biomedical engineer who also built a modeling career. She’s now raising their kids and co-hosting Correct Opinions alongside Trey — the show where the two of them swap takes on marriage, parenting, and whatever came up that week.

Trey has been at this longer than people realize. An Edmond, Oklahoma kid who grew up playing basketball described himself as a “shy kid who never thought he’d be an entertainer.” He started making videos while attending Oklahoma State University. After building millions of followers on Vine before the platform shut down, he gave himself six months on Instagram and Facebook to see whether he could rebuild from zero. He did. Stand-up soon followed. His first special, Are You For Real?, streams on YouTube; the second, Grow Up, on Amazon Prime; the third, built around the Relatable Tour, wrapped earlier this year. “I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now,” he says. A slow climb, made one bit at a time.

“I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now.”

Most of what Trey writes lately starts in his own kitchen. Thomas is three and a half, and he is, in his father’s words, “a movie.” He narrates his own life from the moment his eyes open and mispronounces words in ways his parents now repeat to each other because no one else would believe them. His younger sister, Eva, is what Katie calls “the calm one.” With a third now in the mix, the Kennedys are officially outnumbered.

After six years of marriage, Trey and Katie have learned that the partnership runs best when it gets its own time on the calendar. So once a week, they leave the kids with a sitter and go out for coffee. “You need a system,” Katie says. “It’s about taking time to look each other in the eye. Not the kids. Not the cameras. Just each other.”

The same instinct shapes the work. Most of Trey’s trial and error happens onstage or on Instagram, but the first read is always Katie’s. “There’s only been one time ever I’ve had to be like, ‘you’re not doing that,’” she says. The rest of the time, she just laughs first.

Trey and Katie talk about marriage, parenting, and the moments that don’t make the Instagram feed.

Watch or listen to the full conversation wherever you get your podcasts.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES HAIR & MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE

KRUEGER

THREE BROTHERS, One Timeless Sound

BROTHERS IN BLACK ON HONORING THE MAN IN BLACK, ONE HONEST PERFORMANCE AT A TIME

ARTICLE BY MARY BELL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LACEY POULTON

Some music never goes out of style. For Brothers in Black, that belief has become both a passion and a career.

The Tennessee-based trio, made up of brothers Tenoch, Cholo, and Bex, has built a loyal following by faithfully performing the music of Johnny Cash. Their shows celebrate one of America’s most iconic artists while introducing a new generation to the songs that helped shape country music.

Although they now call Tennessee home, the brothers’ story began in Park City, Utah. During the COVID-19 pandemic, they found themselves drawn to traditional American music after watching O Brother, Where Art Thou?

“We got interested in bluegrass and old-time music after watching the movie,” they say. “The Southern lifestyle portrayed in the film felt more alive than the masks and the screens we were surrounded by.”

CONTINUED >

Inspired by what they had seen, they grabbed their instruments and spent the summer busking on the streets of their hometown. Their setlist included bluegrass standards and country classics, but one artist quickly stood out.

“We started playing a few Johnny Cash songs in our bluegrass set, and we quickly realized how much we loved performing them,” they say.

“Tenoch could naturally sing in Johnny’s vocal range, and everything fell into place.”

Today, Johnny Cash’s music makes up most of every Brothers in Black performance. The remaining songs are classics from the same era that fit naturally alongside Cash’s legendary catalog.

Being brothers has also played a significant role in the band’s success.

“It’s really nice to have a group of like-minded people who live together and are equally dedicated to the band,” they say. “Keeping a band together with people who aren’t family can sometimes be difficult.”

Each member contributes something different.

“Tenoch brings discipline. Cholo brings the brains. Bex brings the soul. We couldn’t do what we do without all three.”

Rather than reinvent Johnny Cash’s music, the brothers focus on honoring it.

“We try to keep every part as close to the original recordings as possible,” they say. “We don’t try to imitate Johnny’s personality on stage, but we want audiences to hear the songs the way they were meant to be heard.”

For them, Johnny Cash’s lasting influence comes down to authenticity.

“His honesty and rockstar mentality inspire us,” they say. “The simplicity of his songwriting is timeless, and his voice is recognizable to just about everyone.”

Life on the road has brought its share of challenges. After relocating to Tennessee, the brothers adjusted to unfamiliar weather, unpredictable schedules, and nights spent sleeping in Walmart parking lots.

“Life on the road offers very little stability or security,” they say. “Staying optimistic has been a challenge, but never impossible.”

Those sacrifices have been rewarded with unforgettable experiences. They especially enjoy performing at Fox & Locke in Leiper’s Fork and Milepost 42 in Dickson, where welcoming crowds have helped them feel at home.

“When we first moved to Tennessee, we didn’t know anyone,” they say. “The moment people started coming to shows specifically to see us was incredibly meaningful.”

They’ve also developed a dedicated YouTube following, creating connections with fans across the country through performances, including a series of Christmas classics that resonated during the holidays.

A Brothers in Black show is designed to feel genuine, relaxed, and fun. Audiences can expect plenty of Johnny Cash favorites, a few surprises, and the occasional unexpected moment.

“We hope people can tell that we truly love the songs we’re playing,” they say. “Equipment doesn’t always cooperate, but we do our best to adapt and keep things enjoyable.”

Fan favorites like “Folsom Prison Blues,” “I’ve Been Everywhere,” “I’ll Fly Away,” and Elvis Presley’s “Hound Dog” consistently get audiences singing along.

Looking ahead, the brothers hope to record an album, tour across the country, and someday perform on the stage of the Grand Ole Opry.

More than anything, they hope their performances remind audiences that great music never fades.

“We hope older generations know their music won’t be forgotten,” they say. “We also hope younger audiences discover Johnny Cash through us and leave with a new appreciation for his music.”

For Brothers in Black, every performance is an opportunity to celebrate timeless songs, honor an American legend and share the music they love with audiences across Tennessee and beyond.

To keep up to date with the brothers, follow them on social media.

@brothers.in.black

“We hope older generations know their music won't be forgotten,” they say.

Adopt, Don’t Shop

TWO LOCAL BREEDSPECIFIC RESCUES TO SUPPORT

ARTICLE BY SOPHIE BROCK PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Adopt a Golden Nashville Nashville PITTIE

Adopt a Golden Nashville is an all-volunteer, 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization established in 1998. AGN is dedicated to the rescue, care, evaluation, and placement of abandoned or unwanted Golden Retrievers.

As a foster-based rescue, every dog lives in a loving foster home where families get to know their unique personality, helping us make the best possible match with an adoptive family. Our mission is to promote the understanding, appreciation, and care of canines through education about responsible pet ownership while raising awareness of the importance of adoption, fostering, volunteering, and community support.

@adoptagoldennashville adoptagoldennashville.org

Local organization, Nashville PITTIE, believes that no dog should suffer the injustice of discrimination, neglect, or abuse.

Historically, Pitbulls were deeply integrated into American family life. This enduring bond is widely documented in early 20th-century photography, which frequently depicts the breed as a reliable and constant companion to young children.

Nashville PITTIE works endlessly to restore the Pitbull’s positive image through education, promoting responsible ownership, and spay/neuter programs. In doing so, the organization continues to bring to light the true character of the Pitbull and the invaluable contributions they make as family pets and service companions, as they have for generations.

@nashvillepittie nashvillepittie.org

“On the Dock of the Bay” by Sheryl Hibbs
“Center Passage” by Anton Weiss

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

There is little more satisfying to your sweet tooth than ooey-gooey cinnamon rolls. Here is an easy and fun way to make this tearable, shareable treat!

CINNAMON MONKEY BREAD IS A FUN DESSERT FOR CHILDREN TO MAKE AND SHARE!

AROUND

INGREDIENTS

• 1/2 cup melted butter

• 1/3 cup granulated sugar

• 1/3 cup firmly packed brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

• 3 (12 oz.) cans of buttermilk biscuits

COOKING INSTRUCTIONS

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Generously coat the inside of a bundt pan with cooking spray or butter. Melt the butter in a pot or bowl. Mix the sugars and cinnamon in a separate bowl.

Open one can of biscuits, separate, and cut each into four sections. Next, roll each quarter into a ball and then put each one into the sugar mixture to coat. Place the balls in the bundt pan in a single layer and drizzle a little melted butter evenly over the top. Repeat with the other two cans of biscuits. Sprinkle the remaining sugar mixture over the top and bake for 30-35 minutes.

Be sure to let cool for a minute or two before turning the bread onto a plate and carefully removing the pan. If you leave the monkey bread in the pan much longer, it will stick and be hard to remove.

I sometimes make icing by adding a few tablespoons of milk to about a 1/2 cup of powdered sugar with a splash of vanilla.

Drizzle over the top while warm and enjoy!

New Season. Fresh Starts. New Home.

midtnvascular.com info@midtnvascular.com @midtnvein

— Dennis & Idolia

Homemade Dog Food

My two pugs are more than pets—they’re part of the family. That’s why I started making their food at home, and it’s been one of the most popular posts on my blog. You may be surprised just how easy this recipe is. I add all the ingredients to my slow-cooker to cook, and my dogs love it. If you decide to try this recipe for your pet, please consult your veterinarian. Every dog has different needs based on age, weight, and any health issues. You can even share this recipe with your vet to see if any changes are needed. The ingredients are flexible and can be easily swapped to substitute the turkey for chicken or beef, and even try different dog-safe vegetables. Making dog food at home isn’t hard—it just takes a little planning, and my dogs love it.

Slow Cooker

Homemade Dog Food

INGREDIENTS:

• 3 lbs ground turkey (85% lean)

• 1¼ cups frozen sweet potatoes

• 1½ cups frozen peas and carrots

• 1 cup frozen spinach

• 1½ cups uncooked brown or white rice

• 4 cups water

DIRECTIONS:

1. Add all ingredients to a slow cooker.

2. Break up the ground turkey and mix all the ingredients.

3. Cover and cook on High for 3–4 hours or Low for 6 hours, stirring occasionally.

Note: My dog food was ready in 3½ hours on High. Let cool completely before serving. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze for later use.

Recipe from Amy Tinnin - A Cup Full of Sass

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Brentwood, TN August 2026 by City Lifestyle - Issuu