Cullman, AL August 2025

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Happy August

Dear readers,

There’s something so sweet about August in Cullman. The days feel slower, but the memories seem to move faster — especially with little ones and furry friends underfoot. It’s a season filled with sun-drenched afternoons, popsicles on porches and the beautiful chaos that comes with raising kids and pets.

This month, we’re celebrating the heart and soul of family life — our children and our animals. Whether it’s a golden retriever patiently watching over a toddler or a kitten perched in the window waiting for its favorite human to come home, these relationships fill our homes with joy, love and sometimes a little mischief.

If you know me, you know how much I adore animals. We share our home with two dogs and two kittens — and yes, it’s just as wild and wonderful as it sounds. There’s nothing quite like the sound of paws on hardwood or the sight of a sleepy kitten curled up beside a child with messy hair and grass-stained knees. It’s in those small, quiet moments that I’m reminded what a gift this season of life truly is.

Inside this issue, you’ll find stories that will make you smile, tips for life with littles (both human and furry) and a spotlight on the local people and businesses that make our community so special.

Thank you for being part of this journey with us. We’re grateful for each reader, each advertiser and each of you who picks up this magazine and finds a little bit of yourself in its pages.

With love, wagging tails and muddy paw prints,

August 2025

PUBLISHER

Missy Gurley | missy.gurley@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Wendy Sack | wendy.sack@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Lisa Jones | Lisa Jones Photography

Martha Needham | Rustic Soul Photography

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders

AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

LAYOUT DESIGNER Meredith Wilson

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas Learn

At Jack’s

‘We

Local

Veda Kilpatrick

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Jack’s Western Wear, we love this! Get your photo taken with Sheriff Matt Gentry! 2: Sheriff Matt Gentry with his fans at the Colony Senior Center 3: Sheriff Matt Gentry signs his photo for Colony Senior Senior Manager Rhonda Brewer. 4: Members of the Colony Senior Center got the sheriff's autograph on his magazine ad. 5: 2nd Fridays Cullman with the Barbers of Premier Plumbing - our favorite plumbing team! 6: The Revive Massage Therapy crew at 2nd Fridays Cullman 7: A little rain, some humidity and lots of fun with these ladies at 2nd Fridays

CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE
KELLY JO WHEELER
8: Cullman Savings Bank had delicious barbecue provided by The Butcher Meat Co. 9: Addie Townson at a fun block party - with llamas! 10: Matt, Melanie, Addie, Max and Kay Townson 11: A delicious crawfish boil with some of our favorites - the Hank's Sports Bar crew 12: The lovely ladies of Jubilee Coffee & Wine Bar at the block party 13: Werner’s has Lululemon for men and women! Stop by and tell them hi! 14: Wine slushies and charcuterie at Bloom Winery for the win!
CULLMAN SAVINGS BANK
CULLMAN SAVINGS BANK
CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE
CULLMAN SAVINGS BANK
CULLMAN SAVINGS BANK
CULLMAN SAVINGS BANK

15: A fun time learning at Garden Camp at the North Alabama Agriplex 16: Showing off a beautiful carrot! 17: We love Just 2 Chicks at Festhalle Farmers Market! The absolute sweetest! 18: Fresh vegetables at Festhalle Farmers Market in downtown Cullman 19: Celebrating a sweet friend's birthday at Jubilee Coffee & Wine Bar 20 Lora Prince, Heather Price and Missy Gurley at Jubilee Coffee & Wine Bar 21: Cheers with a mimosa flight at Jubilee Coffee & Wine Bar

CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE
SARAH EVANS
CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE
CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE
SARAH EVANS
CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE
CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE

Want to be seen in the magazine?

sure to look for him in Cullman! 28:

Leps with Cullman Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram congratulates Keith Waites on his truck.

22: Kid Rock performs on stage at Rock the South 2025. 23: Emily Bussman with Sips n Strokes did an amazing job! We learned so much! 24: Ella Price and Emma Gurley enjoying Jubilee Coffee & Wine Bar 25: Missy Gurley, Ella Price, Emma Gurley, Lora Prince and Heather Price 26: A fun night at Jubilee Coffee & Wine Bar painting with friends 27: Papa Sam’s Hotdogs were so delicious. Be
Correy
CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE
CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE
CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE
CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE
CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE
CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE
CORREY LEPS

business monthly

Nancy Frye of Cullman Cosmetic & Family Dentistry

Time moves on, but the way Nancy Frye cares never changes. Our beloved "Resident Mama" has been the steady hand and warm heart of our dental office for 21 years. Watching her walk someone down the hall — just like she's walked with all of us — reminds us how lucky we are to have her.

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Boozer Eyecare Associates

Boozer Eyecare Associates has proudly served Cullman for over 30 years with trusted, personalized eye care for the whole family. Led by Dr. Spencer Boozer, the team offers comprehensive eye exams, glasses, contacts and advanced treatment options — all with a warm, welcoming approach. Known for its commitment to excellence and patient-first care, Boozer Eyecare is a clear choice for vision health in our community. See the difference local care makes.

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Photo by Cullman Cosmetic & Family Dentistry
Photo by Boozer Eyecare Associates

Doug Doggett Jewelers

Doug Doggett Jewelers, a family-owned business since 1981, crafts timeless wedding and custom jewelry right here in Cullman. With GIA-trained staff offering expert design, engraving, appraisals and watch repair, it’s earned an A+ BBB rating and Jewelers of America membership. Dedicated to personalized service and quality, Doug Doggett Jewelers transforms special moments into cherished heirlooms with care and expertise you can trust. Scan to read more

Photo by Doug Doggett Jewelers

ROOTED IN family business

At Jack’s Western Wear, father, daughters, son-in-law and grandkids work side by side

Jack’s Western Wear when it was only 1,000 square feet

Larry Allred shows off boots at Jack's Western Wear.
ARTICLE BY CARSON POSMAN AND WENDY SACK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KRISTIN ALLRED

Talk about family tradition! Jack’s Western Wear in Good Hope has been around since 1976, born out of one family business and growing into another – one with father, daughters, son-in-law and grandkids working side by side.

Founder Larry Allred was kind enough to share the history of Jack’s, lovingly recounting it to his granddaughter, Carson.

“I started with 35 pairs of boots. That was nearly 50 years ago — and now, we have more than 25,000,” he began.

“After graduating from the University of Alabama in 1969, I returned home to work in my family’s business, Jack’s Truck Stop and Cafe in Cullman. At the time, there was nothing Western about what my family did. You know, serving food and selling diesel and all that. But I felt there was more we could offer to Cullman. So I took out a loan and built a small store — just 1,000 square feet — on the north side of the truck stop. I stocked it with 35 pairs of boots, and fortunately, it took off.”

Larry said in the early days, he handled it all.

“I pumped gas, ran the restaurant and ran the store,” he recalled. “It was tough; the restaurant and service station alone were open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. I eventually sold the cafe and focused on the Western store. We moved and expanded to 7,500 square feet.”

Jack’s has always been a family business.

Shared Larry, “I made sure my daughters, Sara and Kristin, spent their summers and after-school hours bussing tables and helping out in the store. I wanted them to learn the trade, knowing that it takes years of hard work and dedication to succeed, and also the importance of family.”

Larry was proud to talk about how his daughters are a big part of Jack’s, with Sara joining her dad in 2007 and Kris two years ago.

“In 2007, my oldest daughter, Sara, joined the store full time, bringing her retail experience that she had learned while working in Atlanta and Asheville. Then, in 2013, I made another big decision: I bought the land where my great-grandfather’s farm once stood — the

CONTINUED >

Larry Allred - when he started the business
Larry's grandkids
Carson and Andrue

same land where his house used to be — and we built a brand-new store from the ground up. That land means a lot to my family, and it felt right to keep the Allred roots growing strong there.

“Kristin, my youngest, joined us in 2023. Due to health reasons, she left the world of TV and now leads our marketing and e-commerce efforts. Because of her, we now have a website.

They say we’ve now shipped to all 50 states. She also runs our social media, though I’ll admit, I don’t understand much of that part.”

Larry also heaped praise on his son-inlaw and grandchildren.

“Besides my daughters, my son-in-law has joined the team, too. He’s an accountant, and it has helped me relinquish some of the responsibility. But most of all, I get to see some of my grandchildren almost every day.

“Sara’s oldest, Andrue, can tell you everything you need to know about boots, from the fit to the type of animal skin they are made of. Her youngest, Jackson, is always rocking a cowboy hat, and whenever a new load of boots comes in, I can always rely on him to unload them.

Kristin’s son, Eli, helps when he’s around, and last year, he formed a team to help us

JACK’S WESTERN WEAR @JACKSWESTERNOUTDOORWEAR

Jack’s Western Wear is located at 114 Schwaiger Road, Cullman, AL 35055. It carries a large variety of Western, work and outdoor boots, hats and apparel – along with jewelry and other accessories – for men, women and kids. Find Jack’s Western Wear online at www.jackswestern.com, Facebook/Jack’s Western & Outdoor Wear, Instagram/jackswesternoutdoorwear and TikTok/@jacks.western.out.

Top: Larry with his grandkids Andrue and Carson. Below: Jack’s Truck Stop in the 1970s
Guillermo Alday, Larry Allred and Brodey Witcher
“I’m proud of what we’ve built — not just a business, but a tradition. And we’re just getting started.”
- Larry Allred

with our sponsorship for Rock the South. Her youngest, Carson, is just like her mom, always putting together outfits and asking me for another pair of pretty boots.”

Larry is proud, but he’s also quick to give thanks. And he has a big heart for giving back to the community that has given his family so much.

“I'm so proud of what Jack's has become. Never in a million years did I think we would become what we are today, to grow from a 1,000-square-foot business to 25,000 square feet. I'm humble, but I'm proud. For several years in a row, we've been voted ‘Best Place to Buy Boots,’ ‘Best Western Wear’ and ‘Best Place to Buy Men’s Clothing,’ he said.

“The awards are nice and all, and we appreciate every piece of recognition, whether it comes from a title, a plaque or just a compliment from an appreciative customer. But it's also about what we do for the community. This includes our dedicated employees, some have worked for Jack's for decades,” he added. “Also, giving back to the community is a special priority for me. We participate in several local events, including the sheriff’s rodeo. And one of the most recent things we have decided to do is recognize our hometown heroes. We want to showcase those that not only shop in our store but represent the type of Cullman resident we look up to. Our first hometown hero is Cullman County Sheriff Matt Gentry. He was featured in last month’s issue. He has been shopping at Jack’s since he was a young boy. And we are already looking for our next candidate.”

Larry Allred with his daughters Sara and Kristin

children’s book author spotlight

Discover two local writers and their latest works for kids

Meet two local authors, their books and the heart behind each page.

Dr. Rebekah Lloyd

“As an adoptive mom, Army veteran and trauma-informed leadership expert, I’ve always believed stories have the power to heal, teach and connect us,” said Lloyd. “That’s why I created two children’s book series close to my heart.”

She said “The Adventures of Mia, the Service Dog” is inspired by her real-life service dog, Mia, who’s flown on over 20 planes and walked with her through some of life’s hardest moments, explaining, “In this series, Mia takes center stage — helping others, spreading kindness and teaching kids about disabilities, service dogs and the quiet courage that often goes unseen. These stories help children better understand the world around them, especially those who live with invisible battles.”

She continued, “This month, I’m thrilled to release the first book in my newest series, ‘Not a Normal Kid.’ The debut title, ‘Seth’s Big Adventure,’ follows a child in foster care

waiting to be adopted. Each book in the series highlights a different child navigating challenges that don’t always make it into typical storybooks — whether that’s grief, special needs or growing up in a single-parent home.”

Lloyd said she writes these books because she wants every child to see themselves in a story and know they’re not alone. “I want them to know that being different isn’t something to hide — it’s something to celebrate.”

Explore both series and learn more about the heart behind them at www.drrebekahclloyd.com.

Dr. Rebekah Lloyd poses with her books.

“‘Travis and Tanner’ began as a simple bedtime story to my then two boys one night while on vacation,” said Sellers. “They instantly fell in love with the Ritter brothers and begged for more stories. After telling four or five, I decided to start writing them down to save as keepsakes.”

Sellers said his wife began reading the books to the boys at night and insisted he turn the stories into a book.

“I was skeptical that I could ever put something like that together, but my wife was persistent and eventually I began molding a few of the stories together into ‘Travis and Tanner: Knighthood,’” he said. “Without her love and support, ‘Travis and Tanner’ would have never become what it is.”

Sellers said he fell in love with writing and self-publishing. “I have published a second, ‘Travis and Tanner: The Eyes of Horus,’ and am currently working on the third installment.”

He added, “While I found a love for writing during the first book, what really pushed me to finish it was my boys. I try to instill in them that they can do anything they set their minds to, and I decided the best way to do that is to lead by example. Even though they

will probably never become best sellers, if I can inspire them to do what may seem impossible at the time, I will have succeeded in what I set out to do.”

Sellers said he’s had an absolute blast with his series, and he’s even had the chance to speak at a couple of local elementary schools.

“To see the kids' imaginations churn as I have told the first chapter of ‘Knighthood’ has been such a blessing. My favorite part is when I get a few children to describe the dragon from the book. Each one has a completely different vision of what it looks like and I use this to illustrate that, while the story may be written, each person's mind allows them to make the story their own.”

Check out Sellers’ books at https://tinyurl.com/koltonsellersbooks.

Sellers' second book is "Travis and Tanner: The Eyes of Horus."
"Travis and Tanner: Knighthood" is the first book for author Kolton Sellers.

Cute summer styles for boys and girls

Wren + Revel is located at 103 First Ave. NE, Suite 120, in Cullman.
Pictured is Tanya Carter.

HANDPICKED with HEART

“The store was born from a passing thought one Easter when I was desperate to find outfits for my son and daughter at the last minute, and couldn’t find anything in Cullman!”

That’s how Wren + Revel Owner Tanya Carter described the moment the idea for her children’s boutique was born.

“I talked about the need with a couple of people and one said, ‘You should do it!’” she said. “I didn’t think much of it at the time. I work full time, have a family – three children – and am very involved in their activities. I wouldn’t even know where to start!”

But, Carter shared, the thought wouldn’t go away. So she started praying and researching. Then, she reached out to local entrepreneur Shane Quick, who helped her narrow down a location.

“This was the first door God opened,” she smiled.

She dove into the business details in earnest.

“I honestly thought I would hit a roadblock and my passing thought would be put to rest,” said Carter. “But God continued to open one door after another!”

She started sharing her plans with friends, whom she said were quiet at first but came around.

“I think by the time I finished telling them all the steps I had already taken, they were like, ‘OK! We’ll help you however we

‘We want each child who walks into our store to feel special’
Tanya Carter poses with a display of kids' items in her store. Below, who doesn't want to float in sunshine?

can!’  I have the BEST support system! Without my family and friends, I wouldn’t have seen this dream come to life!”

Coming up with a store name and branding, Carter considered her family and her faith.

“My best friend and I are in the space one afternoon discussing ideas and Shane and Laura Quick walked in – this is the first time I met Laura. We started talking about the store, name, logo, etc.  She shared her thoughts, and I will forever be grateful for her insight that day!  After a short discussion it was evident that her company, Good Grit Agency, would be well worth the investment to help me name and brand the store,” she explained. “This was another door God opened! With their help, Wren + Revel was created.”

About the name, Carter elaborated: “Wren is a common bird in Alabama. They’re known for always singing a joyful song. It’s also my daughter’s middle name! The team had no clue of this when they suggested it during the process, but it was my sign that this was definitely supposed to be in the name of my store. The definition of ‘revel’ is to have fun with a little noise, which is also synonymous with the age group I was trying to reach with my store. Our logo is a wren with a crown. This mark is a physical manifestation of our faith in Christ and the steadfast journey to bring this store to life.”

So – what can shoppers find at Wren + Revel?

“We carry clothing in sizes youth XS to youth XL (5-16). We offer trendy, affordable and age-appropriate clothing options that kids and parents will love,” said Carter. “We take pride in curating a selection of clothing that allows kids to express their individuality while staying comfortable and stylish.  We believe in making fashion fun and accessible, helping your kids look and feel their best.”

Carter talked a bit about what clothing is trendy at the moment: “For girls, trendy contrast-paneled tees, gingham blouses, frayed/distressed jeans, cargo joggers and comfortable athleisure pieces. And lots of fun dresses and tops: puff-sleeve floral knit, eyelet ruffle tops and textured knits. For boys, a fresh, casual feel that’s practical and on-trend: performance polo

"Our logo is a wren with a crown. This mark is a physical manifestation of our faith in Christ and the steadfast journey to bring this store to life.”

"We hope to be a beacon of joy in this community, clothing and crowning our youth with hope and fun!"

exclaimed Wren + Revel Owner Tanya Carter,

who referenced James 1:12.

shirts, khaki and stretch twill shorts in muted tones, and branded graphic tees.  Fall and layering musthaves include light puffer or quilted vests, fleece pullovers and layered long-sleeve plus vests.”

She explained boutique stores are typically smaller and more customer-focused than large chain stores.

“Staff often remember repeat customers and their preferences, offer styling advice tailored to each child or occasion. Our staff go out of their way to help each child/family find just the right item!” she said. “Boutiques tend to stock limited runs of products,

avoid mass-market, overproduced items and reflect the current trends in the industry.”

Wren + Revel doesn’t just carry boys’ and girls’ clothing. “We also have a great selection of small toys/ games that are fun for the whole family! Every item we carry is handpicked with heart, and we always imagine how it’ll fit into the magic of everyday family life! We want each child that walks into our store to feel special and help pick out the perfect item for each one!”

Wren + Revel is located at 103 First Ave. NE, Suite 120, in Cullman. Find it online at wrenandrevel.com.

Wren + Revel Owner Tanya Carter

Local business owners share the spotlight with their furry companions

Business is better with pets

At Cullman City Lifestyle, we believe every great business has a story — and sometimes, those stories come with wagging tails, furry faces, muddy paws and sloppy kisses.

Shayla Willingham

“What I appreciate most about Dixie is her unwavering loyalty and unconditional love. She eagerly accompanies me wherever I go — whether it’s to work, on a fishing trip or simply out for a drive. She looks forward to her morning treats, and we both enjoy picking out new toys for her during visits to PetSmart.”

Heaven Scent Cleaning Services, LLC

Lisa Jones

“I’ve always loved animals, all kinds. Dogs specifically have always been a part of my life. Empty nesters, my husband and I were down to one dog and had decided once she passed our dog days were over. That idea didn’t take, as we currently have a black Lab and four Standard Poodles! As a professional portrait photographer, I never realized how much I enjoyed photographing pets until I started doing portraits last year for a local rescue, Paws Up. Pets are now my absolute favorite subjects!”

Lisa Jones Photography

Britt and Laura Wood

”When you walk into Werner’s Trading Co. in Cullman or Wood’s Trading Co. in Gardendale, you are met with a smiling face…Ace. He makes your shopping experience with us so much more. It is like he senses how each customer’s personality and he acts accordingly. He is so great with kids. We love being able to bring him to work with us every day. Stop by and meet Ace!”

Werner’s Trading Co. and Wood’s Trading Co.

Shayla Willingham and Dixie
Lisa Jones and her three precious pups
Laura and Britt Wood with Ace

“At Checklist Concierge, we believe life’s too short to stress over the little things — especially when it comes to your fur babies. Our Pet Concierge Service treats them like family, whether it’s playtime, mealtime or snuggletime while you’re away. We even provide transportation to the vet, groomer or boarding facility. Based in Cullman, we’re a heart-led business helping busy professionals focus on what truly matters. From pet care to house check-ins while you’re away, our dependable service is wrapped in Southern charm and genuine care. Because around here, community means showing up — even for four paws.”

Checklist Concierge Service, LLC

Traci Johnson Becky Sherer

”Luna isn’t just a dog — she’s a little piece of calm in the chaos, a heartbeat at your feet. Whether it’s a rough day or just one of those moments where everything feels heavy, Luna shows up with that quiet kind of love only a loyal companion can give. She reads the room better than most people, stays close when you need her most and somehow always knows how to make you feel just a little more OK. She’s not just emotional support — she’s family.”

Granite South

GLS Cullman family

“Cosmo, a handsome 14-year-old Miniature Sheltie, is the official GLS Supply greeter. These days, Cosmo’s favorite pastimes are naps and chasing the ever elusive cat at the lake. Cosmo caught the cat one time but, having a gentle soul,  just looked down at him because he didn’t know what else to do. The cat taunts him to this day. Back in his younger days, Cosmo would go along for the ride with Sam in his canoe exploring the lake. Boomer, a beautiful 9-year-old Blue Heeler and Australian Shepherd mix, is a rescue. With the love of Sam, his family and the GLS family, Boomer has blossomed into one of the best boys. Boomer’s favorite thing to do is play ball. Boomer can be seen sitting like a person in the front seat of Sam’s truck helping navigate the drive to and from work.

GLS Supply

Traci Johnson with a four-legged client
Becky Sherer with Luna
Sam Sudderth with Cosmo and Boomer

Ace at Werner’s Trading Company

Pup-friendly stops around Cullman

Shop local with us for our four-legged friends

Looking for the perfect day out with your furry best friend? Cullman has plenty of dog-loving destinations that make tails wag and hearts happy. From shopping sprees for stylish scarves and toys to lakeside spots offering safety gear for boat days, several of our local businesses roll out the red carpet for pups. Whether you’re grabbing a treat, looking to sip on a latte with a side of pup cup or wanting to find a perfect pet-friendly patio, these local gems are a must for you and your four-legged companions.

Here are a few favorite stops around town for the ultimate pup adventure.

Werner’s Trading Company has so many dog accessories like scarves, collars, leashes and toys by Barbour. Plus YETI dog bowls to keep your dog’s water cool. And be sure to check out their amazing  Beehive Bathhouse Spray for your favorite doggo! And, of course, bring your dog along! wernerstradingcompany.com

Monograms Plus has treats for dogs and so many fun items for pet lovers. From dog breed-specific towels, cups and keychains,

to dog picture frames, jewelry, decor and signs - you will find the perfect item for any dog parent. Your pet is welcome to shop with you!  monogramsplusonline.com

Trident Marina on Smith Lake has pet life jackets and so much more lake fun items for the entire family. Pets are welcome to join you for lunch or dinner at the outside patio area at The Grille.  tridentmarinas.com

Treat your pup to a cold treat at Karma’s Coffee House or Seven Daughters Scoopsyour pup will thank you for it!  karmascoffeehouse.com,  seven-daughters-scoops.square.site

And don’t forget to stop by the Festhalle Farmers Market with your pup to pick up some fresh fruits and veggies. Dogs are welcome!

cullmanrecreation.org/festhalle

Does your doggo have a favorite spot around town? Let us know @cullman_citylifestyle_!

Pick up unique gifts for the animal lover in your life (or yourself!) at Monograms Plus!

“Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole.”

Werner's carries a variety of accessories for your four-legged friends.

Trident Marina has life vests for your pets!
Doesn't every doggo love a good pup cup?
A gift for everyone at Monograms Plus
Pups are welcome at Trident
Lauren Smith, Daniel Smith, Scarlet Smith, Joshua Smith, Fiona Smith and Macy Smith

‘BEST OF US’

BUDGET BLINDS CULLMAN OWNER JOSHUA SMITH REFLECTS ON THE LESSONS OF FATHERHOOD

Joshua Smith is a successful businessman – he and wife Emily own Budget Blinds in Cullman. But something he’s extremely proud of? His girls.

“Emily and I have four impressive daughters, each a gift to the world consistent with their personalities,” he beamed. “They are stunning examples of wit and charisma, beauty and candor, grace and grit. They are the best of us, teaching and impressing me constantly.”

Joshua shared how his girls influence his business.

“Although they’re not directly involved, Budget Blinds still culturally profits from their influence. They’ve taught me our world is best shaped by freedom, and healthy connections supersede obedience. In the past, whenever ‘obedience’ was my primary goal, failure was inevitable. But, when connection was prioritized, everything else nestled into place naturally. It’s the same in every kind of relationship: family, friends, faith and even business,” he explained. “If I feel disconnected from anyone in each of these

scenarios, our family, friends, Budget Blinds team and especially our customers will most likely feel disconnected as well. That feeling of disconnection can undermine healthy values. Just like with family, if my Budget Blinds team and customers feel unseen and unheard, how can they trust that I’m genuinely trying to help them accomplish their dreams and goals? Why would they partner with me for mine?”

Joshua shared his proudest moments as a father and business owner: “I’m so proud to have seen my ‘once little darlings’ become mentally sharp, emotionally generous and internally free. They’re further along in every regard than I was at their age, and maybe more than I am now. That’s very fulfilling!

“Likewise, I’m honored to have a Budget Blinds team that focuses on excellence in their personal lives as well as on behalf of our customers’ projects and needs. We have been invited time and time again to partner with such a wonderful community for almost 10 years.”

Joshua

WHISKING UP CONFIDENCE

Why Cooking with Kids is More Than Just Making Meals

ANIMAL Crackers

Ingredients:

• 1 cup and 2 tbsp white flour

• 1/4 tsp baking soda

• 1/2 cup oatmeal

• 4 tbsp honey

• 1/2 tsp vanilla

Steps:

There’s something truly special about inviting your child into the kitchen—not just for the cookies or cupcakes, but for the confidence, creativity, and connection that come with it. Cooking with your children isn’t just a fun way to pass the time; it’s an opportunity to build lifelong skills and memories that stick.

Cooking together also taps into something a little magical—memory. The smell of cookies baking or chili simmering on the stove can instantly transport us back to childhood. That’s not just nostalgia talking—science backs it up. Our sense of smell is closely tied to autobiographical memory, especially memories formed early in life. So those sweet, savory scents? They’re more powerful than you might think.

The key is to start simple. Let your toddler play with mixing bowls, spoons, and measuring cups. Begin with small jobs—scooping flour, flattening cookie dough with a rolling pin—and gradually add more steps as your child becomes more confident.

It won’t be perfect. Embrace the mess, stay patient, and focus on the fun. A dash of encouragement and a sprinkle of praise go a long way in keeping your little chef engaged and excited.

Over time, you’ll see the magic unfold: a child who’s not only learning how to cook but also growing more independent, capable, and proud of what they’ve created. And who knows? Maybe one day, they’ll pass those same recipes—and memories—on to their own kids.

• 4 tbsp buttermilk

• 1/2 tsp almond extract

• 1/4 tsp salt

• 1/4 cup whole wheat flour

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature

• Optional: add 1/4 tsp nutmeg or cinnamon

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.

2. Put the oatmeal in a blender or food processor and pulse for about a minute, until it’s reduced to a rough powder. Add the ground oatmeal to the whole wheat and 1/2 cup of the white flour, baking soda and salt to the bowl of an electric mixer affixed with a paddle attachment, and turn on to mix. Add butter and blend on medium speed until the butter has been incorporated and the mix looks a little like wet sand. Add the buttermilk, vanilla, honey and almond extract and blend. If the dough looks too wet to roll, add the remaining flour 1/4 cup at a time until the dough forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the blender.

3. Turn the dough out onto a piece of plastic wrap and flatten into a disc. Cover completely and chill in the fridge for at least one hour, up to overnight.

4. When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 400 degrees and place dough on a lightly floured surface (using the remaining 2 tbsp of flour). Roll out until 1/8 inch thick. Cut out with desired cookie cutters and bake for five to seven minutes, based on your preference. Five minutes will get you a softer cracker, while seven will get you a crisp cracker.

Enjoy!

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A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS AUGUST 2025

events

AUGUST 8TH

2nd Fridays – Friday Night Fever

Cullman Warehouse District | 5:30 PM

Get ready to dance, shop, eat and celebrate! We’re throwing it back to the 70s with groovy vibes, disco beats and vintage flair. Grab your friends, bring the family and come downtown for an unforgettable night of family fun, festivities and community spirit! Free admission.

AUGUST 9TH

The

Velcro

Pygmies at Goat Island Brewing

Goat Island Brewing | 5:00 PM

Come out to Goat Island and see The Velcro Pygmies! The show is from 5-11:30 p.m. Get more information at www.velcropygmies.com.

AUGUST 14TH

Trash Pandas Hometown Throwdown

Toyota Field in Madison | 5:30 PM

Rocket City Trash Pandas vs. Knoxville Smokies. Parking is $10 on game day; discounted parking available in advance via Clutch! Individual tickets starting at $18.19. Support Curt's Closet with an optional donation when purchasing tickets! Tickets and info at www.milb. com/rocket-city/community/hometown-throwdown. Or call 256-325-1403 Ext. 2.

AUGUST 23RD

ALABAMA in Concert

The Orion Amphitheater | 7:00 PM

"ALABAMA continues to tour on a limited basis, keeping the iconic music they created alive for the current and future generation of fans." (The Orion Amphitheater) Catch them Aug. 23 in Huntsville! Get tickets and more information at theorionhuntsville.com/event/alabama.

AUGUST 31ST - SEPTEMBER 1ST Sweet Tater Festival

Smith Lake Park | 9:00 AM

Labor Day Weekend at Smith Lake Park! Come out and enjoy food vendors, contests, live entertainment, family fun, a car show and of course, sweet taters! Get more information at www.facebook.com/SweetTaterFestival.

SEPTEMBER 6TH - 7TH

9th Annual Bernard Blues & BBQ

St. Bernard Prep School

A weekend of family fun, soulful blues music, mouthwatering barbecue, handmade arts & crafts and more! Discover unique, handmade creations! Enjoy a Kansas City Backyard BBQ Cook-off and stick around Sunday for a chance to win $10,000! Admission is $10; kids 12 and younger get in free. Free parking and half-price admission to the Ave Maria Grotto.  www.bernardbluesbbq.com

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Cullman, AL August 2025 by City Lifestyle - Issuu