I HAVE 44 years: J’ai quarant quatre ans. If you translate ‘I am 44 years old’ to French that is the translation. There is no ‘old’ at the end, the phrase is ‘I HAVE 44 years’. Isn’t it beautiful? And isn’t it more correct than our American translation which implies getting old and the loss of time? In recent years, I took French classes and that is one thing I learned that immediately resonated. I HAVE 44 years.
We often think of time as passing us by, but as my birthday approaches this May I wonder if perhaps this mentality that aging should be feared and avoided is wrong. Instead of thinking of time as something we lose, maybe we should think of it as something we collect. With every passing day, with every memory, with every birthday, we are gathering more time in our basket. We are collecting moments that become a part of us. Time goes by, but what a beautiful thing to collect such memories and build a life. After all, what a gift - to live, to age.
In our Women's Issue you find an array of women building lives in Alabama. Our Golden Girls share wisdom on all they have learned in their years on this Earth and in this city. Sallie Keene Denton writes about women in traditionally male career roles and their experiences in Woman's Work. Our Boomerang Residents moved away, but memories and connection brought them back to build lives in Huntsville. Young TikTok phenom Haley Sharpe has only just begun building a life, but what an exciting one she is living in Thrill Of The Fight. In The Gift Of Your Voice, author Kari Kampakis writes how important it is to encourage other women. Huntsville Learning Center's April Boddie gets real in Messy Ministry, while Decatur artist Frances Tate tells stories through art. We also travel to places mothers and daughters can build memories together. Plus, we have a Huntsville Love Story sure to melt your heart, Your Summer Reading List from independent bookseller The Snail On The Wall, and Mother's Day Gift Ideas
Thank you for your support of this monthly magazine. It is an honor to share the stories of Huntsville. And when we receive messages like this, it brings much gratitude: "Currently in tears because this issue is so amazing. The quality of it is so stellar I am blown away. I love the art cover. You are trailblazers and I cannot wait to see you continue to leave your mark on this community."
Long. Live. Print.
May 2023
PUBLISHER
Amy Bailey | amy.bailey@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Carrie Tate | carrie.tate@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Marynell Cole
INTERN
Mia Rogers
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Nadia Kidd
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Kari Kampakis, Sallie Keene Denton, Lady Smith
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Jennifer Tarkington, Ty Cole, Erin Cobb, Olivia Reed, Eddie Hurskin, Heather Swanner
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore
DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer
ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor
OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson
WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
AMY BAILEY, PUBLISHER @HUNTSVILLECITYLIFESTYLE
StretchLab provides one-on-one, customized assisted stretching sessions. The stretches are given on our custom designed benches by Flexologists who will adjust your stretch to your needs and talk you through your stretches. Our Flexologists employ a “push & release” type of stretching (technically “proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation stretching”, or PNF) where you will be resisting a bit at times during the stretch and then releasing, resulting in a more effective stretch. Our Mission is to provide the highest quality assisted stretching services to clients of all types - connecting their flexibility and range of motion to an increase in quality of life, energy and lifestyle.
“I’ve known I wanted to be an architect since the fourth grade,” Breggin Lioce shares. While other children were ‘playing video games’, Breggin was drawing interiors. Currently, she’s a Design Professional with the acclaimed architecture firm, Matheny Goldmon. Breggin is one of two women in the architecture department. “In our office, everyone listens to each other, no one talks over or discounts anyone’s thoughts,” says Breggin emphatically. While she’s struggled as a female in a traditionally male role, it’s been in dealings with consultants and contractors, not her coworkers. A 2020 graduate of Auburn University, Breggin spent the majority of her time in college at the architecture studios. “My life was in the studio, work or gym and home. I didn’t go out or join a sorority. I had no time for it.” There are currently more female students enrolled in Auburn’s Architecture school than male students. Breggin was thrilled to hear the statistic, replying “Go Girls!” When asked what that says about the future, she says, “I think it goes back to trailblazing women, that it’s now becoming more commonplace.” Breggin enjoys residential architecture. “You get to be a part of these people’s lives which is so exciting.”
Lacey Kahana is TAG Auto’s service manager, or in her words ‘Girl Friday.’ TAG owned by Shirley McCormick, has been operating since 1988. “Shirley knew I needed a job and asked me to come work for two weeks, it’s been nine years,” Lacey chuckles. Lacey’s grandfather was a mechanic and being the youngest of all brothers has taught her to ‘not give up easily.’ She credits Martin, the head mechanic for teaching her everything she now knows, “Our shop is a family, Martin took me under his wing.” Her struggles as a female mechanic lie in some of the old-school customers who ‘still prefer to talk to a guy.’ “Women are very capable and I’m thankful that Shirley pushes me.” Lacey brings customers through the shop and walks them through their vehicle needs, “If you don’t need it, I’m not putting it on your car.” She feels that being a female in this industry is an advantage, “Our customers range from single moms, elderly women, college students and men.”
Lacey continues, “It impresses people when they find out TAG is female-owned.”
TAG Auto
“I’m a country girl. I know real, fresh food. My mom used to say cooking was one of the best ways to express your love and appreciation.” If you’ve lived in Huntsville for even a short period of time, it’s likely you’ve been to a wedding or event catered by Narvell Patton. With natural ability and a servant’s heart, being a woman in a world of mostly male-owned culinary businesses hasn’t deterred her. In fact, it’s given her an invaluable giftthe chance to show her love of people.
“I always knew I was different. I cooked my first meal when I was 7 and a half years old,” Narvell muses. “I guess I can be placed in the ‘chef’ category, but I didn’t go to culinary school. I’ve never been intimidated by other chefs cause I had the best teachers. Hands-on experience and my mom. And I think I’ve proven to local chefs here in Huntsville that I’m capable.”
When asked if it’s been difficult to be a female business owner, Narvell shrugs. “I just do what God directs me to do and do a good job at that. I know that there are greater chefs than I can ever be, but I know that I can cook pinto beans. I love people and it’s a ministry to me. A lot of love goes on in the kitchen and the table. I just try to stay me.”
“I have never been intimidated by chefs that went to culinary school. I had the best teachers, hands-on experience and my mom.” - Chef Narvell
When Rachel Brown walks into a room her energy is palpable. Rachel has owned her own business for 20 years. Her career journey began with a degree in psychology, but construction was in her blood. “My father was a land developer and a home builder. I grew up working in his company. Watching him purchase land, design communities and build homes for clients to make memories in was magical for me. It still is today.” As far as being a trailblazer in a man’s world? Rachel believes female home builders offer a different level of service and that “women are very detail-oriented.”
Rachel has spent much of her career feeling isolated. She credits the National Association of Home Builders and the Professional Women in Building Council for helping her connect to other female home builders across the country. “I attended a Women in Residential Construction conference about six years ago and met a group of NAHB women in construction. They immediately encouraged me to get involved. It’s taken years to spearhead a local PWB chapter, but we did it. The network of friends I have made has transformed not only my career but my sanity as well. Knowing that I can call a PWB member and vent or ask for help is huge.” In addition to being a female home builder, Rachel is also a wife and mom. “I no longer feel guilty about bringing my child to a meeting, sometimes working on the weekend, canceling an important business meeting because my son is sick, or having a virtual meeting while on vacation.” Rachel says that being upfront and setting expectations with your family and clients is most important. “My husband and son know what to expect, same with my clients.”
With a strong interest in the sciences which only intensified after taking her first biology class, LaTonya W. Moore feels at home in any lab. “My first job after obtaining my degree was at a biotech company called Research Genetics, Inc. located in Huntsville. Purifying and sequencing DNA was my specialty,” LaTonya explains. LaTonya also worked as a Senior Manufacturing Chemist IV at a local pharmaceutical company for a few years. While supervising a team of 8-10 men at any given time, she experienced challenges. “They would oftentimes question my knowledge and capabilities, mainly because they did not like taking orders from a female.” LaTonya continues, “It was a very stressful environment. As a leader, I had to become more assertive. Once my staff realized that we were all working to accomplish the same goal, and that I was not easily intimidated, a mutual respect ensued.” To those thinking of going into the field of research, she advises, “A scientific background, a strong work ethic, and being open to learn new things will provide a smooth transition into any field of science.”
LaTonya currently works as a Research Associate III at HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology. She has been with the institute for over 13 years. “What I love most about my job is being able to apply all of the scientific knowledge that I have acquired over the years to perform and troubleshoot specific protocols. Performing a protocol is a step-by-step technical process, and obtaining a positive outcome is very rewarding.” When asked how her job impacts the world, LaTonya quickly asserts the importance of HudsonAlpha. “Whether it is developing a particular treatment for cancer, discovering the cause of a genetic disorder, or improving crop sustainability, the HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology is at the forefront of innovative technological advances which continue to benefit all.”
Most of LaTonya’s family and friends are here in Huntsville. “I love Huntsville because I love spending time with all my family and friends.” She states, “Huntsville is growing so quickly. I cannot wait to see what else it has in store!”
“I am convinced that the quest for perfection keeps people from feeling real connection,” April Boddie says as we sit down for coffee. “Life is messy. Faith is messy. It’s the mess that makes you whole.” One is immediately drawn to her boldness and openness with her words. Without reservation she speaks about her own life, its ups and downs and how her faith has brought her through it all. Boddie ministers to at-risk youth at the Huntsville Learning Center; she is a trusted advocate and steadfast servant to her students. “These kids are not being heard, so I tell them You can ask me anything. Anything,” Boddie continues, “And sometimes I don’t know the answers and then we google it, but I give them the space to be open.”
Children not having space to talk and be heard is a passion point for Boddie. She frequently asks questions and in response hears, No one has ever asked me that. “When I ask a child or a friend How are you? I want to know How is your heart? “ Boddie reflects, “We build bigger houses with smaller porches. We used to have big porches where family would gather. We used to have Sunday night suppers where I would be around my grandmother, my aunties, my uncles - people I could converse with and ask questions that weren’t my parents. These kids do not have that.” Boddie wants to be that person who helps others grow. “I want to have enough food on the table to share and I want to be someone you can sit with in the belly of your burden.”
Boddie knows so many people who live on the surface, “I drown in shallow waters. I want to go
deep, I want to hear what your troubles are.” She recalls it was often grandmothers who would provide that ‘safe place’ for children to talk and unload. Now with families living apart and broken relationships, fewer children have those connections with their elders. Boddie jokingly says, “Now grandma wants to be ‘glam-ma’ instead of baking cookies and letting kids pile all over them. There’s nothing wrong with being a grandma, being a grandma is awesome.”
Showing love without prejudice and bias is paramount to Boddie’s calling. Though she wholeheartedly admits, “My patience has evolved, but I still need God’s grace often.”
Prayer is another part of Boddie’s daily routine. “It is the privilege of prayer that leaves me in awe. That I can have a conversation, express my fears, offer praise, and be sobby and open. A conversation that is confidential in which I can be my most vulnerable.” In a world where her students are overstimulated, she encourages the stillness prayer offers. “You cannot feel deep connection unless you still your mind. We are always doing so much, we have got to park it sometimes and still our minds.”
When asked about her legacy, Boddie shares, “When I ponder the gifts I have been blessed with, I fear there will not be enough time to execute all of my callings. On those days I remind myself that it is in the hands of the Creator. Most days I feel no fear.”
If you are interested in learning more about Huntsville Learning Center, visit hiclc.org or call 256.536.4400.
“I
TO
THE BELLY OF YOUR BURDEN.”
-APRIL
“I never saw myself doing anything like this,” Sharpe says, “Never!” The young TikTok phenomenon and dancer with over 3.5 million followers who now lives in Los Angeles is referring to Creator Clash, the influencer boxing event and brainchild of YouTuber iDubbbz. The first boxing event for @ yodelinghaley (as Sharpe is known by her followers) was last year, the second match is April 15 of this year. Sharpe laughs, “It’s been fun, but after this, I am ready for a vacation.”
Sharpe has been training six days a week since November, sparring twice a week with the other days devoted to technique and strength training. “The hard part is getting up and going to training, but it feels so good once it’s over. It feels very rewarding.”
Influencer iDubbbz had originally told Sharpe there was no room at the first clash, but after another female contender dropped out, Sharpe secured her spot. When word began getting out that she was boxing, people were very surprised. Questions like Why? and How long are planning to do this? typically ensue. But for the most part Sharpe has found people think it’s cool.
“When I am proud of my performance and I know I did my best, it feels great. I feel strong.”
“It is the hardest thing I have ever done in my life,” Sharpe affirms. “The mental strength it takes to train and psych yourself up for something like this is unlike anything I’ve ever done.”
As expected, her family has had mixed emotions and has worried about her. Sharpe remembers her dad worrying and then he saw a video from training. “He was like now I understand, she is doing the work and she’s good at this.” That preparation has built Sharpe’s confidence with this upcoming match.
Her commitment to training has also changed her build in ways that she likes. “I’m more fit than I’ve ever been and I have more muscle tone. I don’t like working out, but I do like the way this has changed my body.”
“When I am proud of my performance and I know I did my best, it feels great. I feel strong.” On days when she is drained, “I tell myself anyone can do anything for two minutes.”
For others thinking about boxing, Sharpe encourages, “It is a great way to stay fit.” And for women thinking of sparring as a hobby or activity, Sharpe adds, “We need more women in male-dominated sports; if it’s of interest go for it. You are stronger than you realize.”
Creator Clash 2 will take place on April 15, 2023 at Amalie Arena in Tampa, Florida. The main event is set to be iDubbbz vs. YouTuber Alex Wassabi, with returning fighters including Sharpe, AB Ayad, and Alex Apollonov. The proceeds from Sharpe’s match will benefit Merrimack Hall here in Huntsville.
Sharpe originally went viral with her TikTok dances to Say So, Money Trees, and American Boy, going on to dance in a video with Doja Cat. She has also represented brands such as DreamWorks, Revlon, L’Oréal and Macy’s. In 2020 she was named a Top Ten Influencer by Billboard Magazine.
HOW DID YOU MEET? Richard and I met as college students working temporary jobs at Marshall Space Flight Center. As an Auburn student, he got a job with Brown Engineering and was assigned to NASA. He escorted visitors and had a Top Secret clearance because he handled the slide projector for Dr. von Braun’s meetings.
My home was Claxton, Georgia. I had just completed two years at Oxford College of Emory University and was trying to decide whether I wanted to go to “Big” Emory or the University of Georgia. I came to visit my aunt who had just moved to Huntsville. She suggested I take a temporary job at NASA while thinking about my future.
On my first day, I arrived for work at the Saturn S-IVB office. Since I had no clearance, I had to be escorted, and guess who my escort was?
We started dating and got engaged. My dad made Richard promise to love, honor and to let me finish college - which I did at Auburn. Our first apartment is now The Ross Coffee House.
WHAT IS THE BIGGEST LESSON YOU’VE LEARNED IN MARRIAGE? I have learned to respect as well as love your spouse and be a team in every circumstance.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD WE GIVE TO OTHER COUPLES? Richard jokingly says that the secret to staying married is two words “Yes, dear!”
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOUR SPOUSE? I love that he is so cheerful and fun, which is important to a somewhat introverted person like me. I think his favorite thing about me is that I love him so much.
ARTICLE BY AMY BAILEY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIN COBB
ARTICLE BY AMY BAILEY
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNIFER TARKINGTON
“I don’t care what anyone thinks,” says Susan ‘Mrs. Kitty’ Bryant. “That’s why I drive the car I drive, bright red with big eye lashes.” Kitty, as she is known by friends and family, wears a flower on her outfit everyday. Her zest for life is infectious and her personality is bigger and bolder than most women you will ever meet. She offers everyone Coca Cola as we sit down at her home for some porch sitting.
This group that has gathered is no less than iconic: ‘Kitty’ Bryant, Martha Pullen, Escoe Beatty, and Layne Dorning. Bryant is an artist, Beatty a former real estate agent and tireless community volunteer, and Pullen and Dorning are entrepreneurs that have been leading businesses since their youth. Pullen laughs, “I started my first business in 9th grade, I opened a dancing school in Scottsboro.”
Pullen grew up in Scottsboro, but was born in Morristown, New Jersey, though her family has been in Madison County since 1810. “My 7 times great grandfather bought the 7th piece of property in Madison County.” Pullen was in graduate school in Tuscaloosa when she met her husband Joe, a practicing dentist. “I married Joe, a native Huntsvillian. I had a job waiting for me in Sacramento, but
I fell head over heels in love with Joe Pullen and got married instead. We met in October and were married in December. Best thing I ever did in my life was marry Joe.” Pullen advises, “Marry the right person.”
Pullen laughs, “I was a housewife about 3 months, when I said I just can’t do this. So I opened a smocking shop.” This is just one of the many things Pullen has done, from publishing to traveling the world teaching classes on sewing to authoring a series of books.
“I give credit to God. You can’t talk about me without talking about God, because everything I have been blessed with I owe to God,” Pullen says firmly. At 79, she started Rockstar Sewing teaching online classes on her favorite subject. “At 79 why not call yourself a rockstar?” she laughs loudly.
When asked what advice she would give to other women, Pullen without hesitation says, “Women are the most talented creatures. Women can do anything they want to, especially older women. We have time and are primed to run a business.”
Beatty chimes in, “When your kids leave the house, you have time. And you’ve earned it.” She laughs, “I’ve earned every one of these wrinkles too.” Beatty’s list of tireless community involvement is long. Give her a job, and she gets it done. She is a loyal friend and even recalls the night Pullen called her with heartbreaking family news. “Martha called me because she had found out her granddaughter had cancer. I said I’ll be right there,” as she hopped in the car in her pajamas. “You’ve got to talk out your troubles and you’ve got to have people who will share hard times with you.” Beatty moved to Huntsville in 1959, when her father opened a series of fabric stores called The Clothes Basket. She remembers Sunday dinners with all her cousins, aunts and uncles with fried chicken and all the fixings. “You felt loved and cared for by so many adults. It was like a storybook.” Beatty’s husband Bill moved from Kansas in high school, and she fell in love with the new kid on the block. Reflecting on what she might tell her younger self, she chuckles, “Hold on to your hair honey, we’re going for a ride!”
Bryant adds, “I would tell myself to stop worrying. Young people spend so much time worrying. Am I doing this right, Does this person like me. Be yourself and enjoy it.” She continues, “And stop keeping up with the Joneses. Things don’t matter.”
Bryant is an artist; a tour of her home reveals the most beautiful paintings along with embroidered works. She used to paint for commissions, now she says she just likes to play. Her husband is away on a hunting trip and she adds, “I have the whole house to myself and I get to paint!” When asked about aging, she says, “Getting older is wonderful. I don’t want to be young. I’m aging like fine wine.” She adds, “Plus I don’t feel old, I feel like the little girl inside me is alive and well.”
“Women can do anything they want to, especially older women. We have time and are primed to run a business.”
- Martha Pullen
Mrs. Kitty has lived in Huntsville over 65 years, but remembers growing up in Montgomery - her father helped with war efforts. A fond memory is when her dad made her a red wagon. “All the steel was being used for the war, so my daddy took a goat cart, added a handle, and wrote my name on it. This wagon went everywhere with me.” She shows off the beautiful little wagon with ‘Susie’ painted on the side. Bryant’s mother died when she was 12, so she remembers praying over and over for a big family. When she married her husband Hall, her family got bigger. Now she has 10 grandchildren. As she looked around the family farm last Thanksgiving and saw 70 people, she jokingly said, “Why didn’t I pray for money?”
Dorning has lived in Huntsville over 59 years, moving here from Wilsonville, Alabama. She owns Railroad Antiques. When asked about her favorite childhood memory she
exclaims, “Summer! And no school! Being 10 years old! I would leave home early in the morning with my beautiful Collie close at hand and a picnic lunch. I would cruise around the lake in a boat, climb trees, and read Huck Finn .” When asked What do you love about Huntsville she responds, “The weather, the terrain from mountains to beaches, the accents, the food. The joviality, the brain power, the architecture, and the hospitality.”
Dorning encourages other women to cherish people, create goals and stay fit. On aging, she feels “I have reached the place that I feel most comfortable. Comfortable about everything. There is nothing to not like about growing older in good health.”
As our visiting lingers, Bryant looks at the time and in true Southern fashion asks, “Y’all want to stay for supper?”
THESE WOMEN MOVED AWAY, BUT CAME BACK YEARS LATER.
ARTICLE BY AMY BAILEY PHOTOGRAPHY BY OLIVIA REED AND NADIA KIDDTiavalya Befecadu moved away in 2004 to work on Capitol Hill, and eight years later she returned to start a family. “I love the cost of living, family inclusive events, and our arts community.” She smiles, “We have great schools, competitive housing, and southern charm. It’s why we’re the best place to live.” Tiavalya firmly believes, “There’s a sense of community here that some places don’t have. I was raised around a loving group of people from my church, school, and cultural organizations. The connection isn’t temporary, it’s permanent.”
When Tiavalya lived in DC she missed the lack of traffic, her loved ones, and ‘Thomas Pit BBQ.’ She still gets nostalgic thinking about Madison Square Mall and amusement rides at Braham Springs Park.
Her family has been here for generations, so this will always be home. “The people of North Alabama are innovators in science, art, music and education. We’re a shining example of putting hard work into practice and thriving.”
Her perfect day in Huntsville would include visiting Alabama A&M University and Oakwood University, touring the Space & Rocket Center, shopping at Harrison Brothers, and watching a Trash Pandas game.
Martha Lynn Coon left Huntsville after graduating from Huntsville High School in 1996. She returned in August 2022. She had been longing to come back for sometime, but the pandemic truly clarified so much personally and vocationally with everything lining up last summer. “First and foremost, it was the community that brought me back. People here live a life focused on things that matter: taking time to enjoy each other, supporting your neighbor, giving back, and ensuring a quality of life is accessible.” She states, “I wanted my kids to know what it feels like to be connected to their community and raised by a village.”
Growing up Martha Lynn was curious about the world; she longed for the intensity of a big city and craved travel and living abroad. Living most of her adult life in Austin, Texas, she missed the mountains and easy access to the nature Huntsville provides. “People are active and there are so many social and cultural things happening here, but also so many people here have an ease and joy about life. I missed the pace.”
As she’s grown older, she has also realized how unique the multigenerational relationships are. “I now understand how precious it is to know people over a lifetime. As a young person, that may seem boring, but now as an adult, living in a community where people might see their preschool teacher at the grocery store or know their HVAC technician over a period of twenty years is meaningful to me.”
The biggest change Martha Lynn has noticed is the abundance of locally-owned businesses. “When I left in the 90s, we had a fraction of the locally-owned restaurants and creative ventures that are thriving in the city now.” The history and the culture are two things she believes makes Huntsville unique. “I think being from North Alabama is very specific and Huntsville has this unique position of going from a sleepy cotton town to an incredible epicenter of science and engineering in so many fields, yet it somehow retains an identity that reflects both of these realities.” She continues, “It can still feel like a small, southern town at times, but has the amenities and opportunities of a much bigger city.”
“First and foremost, it was the community that brought me back. People here live a life focused on things that matter.”
- Martha Lynn Coon
Missing her family and friends, the trails, and getting to places in 10 to 20 minutes, Lindsey Pattillo Keane moved back to Huntsville in 2017 after being away for 14 years. As she was finishing her MBA in Houston, she visited the Rocket City for a wedding, saw the change that was happening, and decided it was time. She was connected to her now boss and has been working for RCP Companies and the MidCity District ever since. Her first tasks were to get The Camp and its farmers market off the ground.
As a young adult Lindsey moved to be in a city with more amenities, entertainment, cultural events, diverse food - “I wanted to see unfamiliar things, get outside my comfort zone, and meet people from all over the world. I wanted to grow in a new place.” Moving back, she has fallen in love with the newfound energy of Huntsville. “There is a collective sense of making Huntsville even better than it already is. We are surrounded by smart people and good jobs. People want to see an increase in quality-of-life amenities.” Lindsey also sees others realizing their dreams, “With the farmers market, I see the front lines of community businesses and entrepreneurship.”
She remembers, “I’ll never forget driving back to Huntsville from Houston and being shocked by the strobe effect in my vehicle created by the sunlight peering through the trees. I had forgotten how big and beautiful the trees were in Huntsville.” Forever a local tourist, Lindsey describes her perfect Huntsville day: “A Land Trust hike or yoga at Light on Yoga Fitness, breakfast at Canadian Bakin, visit to Lowe Mill, a tour of MidCity, a river walk at Ditto Landing, foot massage at Wellness Massage on Cecil Ashburn, a nap, then dinner at La Esquina Cocina or Domaine South, and concert at The Orion.”
“With the farmers market, I see the front lines of community businesses and entrepreneurship.”
- Lindsey Pattillo Keane
1 Roberto Coin 18k gold and turquoise princess flower pendant with diamonds: Loring & Company, 800 Airport Road, 256.880.1909. Instagram @loringandco
2. Blue and white chinoiserie jars: From $80$250. Brooks & Collier, 813 Meridian Street, 256.534.2718. Instagram @brooksandcollier.
3 Floral art by Huntsville artist Amy Schnorrenberg: 6x6 Lenten Rose $75. To order or commission a custom piece, amyschnorrenbergart.com. Instagram @amy_schnorrenberg_art
4. Orbix blown glass pitcher: The Little Green Store, 820 Monte Sano Blvd. SE, 256.539.9699. Instagram @thelittlegreenstore
5 Tocca candle: $46. Caley Paige, 114 Clinton Ave E., Suite 104, 256.715.7424. Instagram @shopcaleypaige
6 Doves by Doron Paloma malachite ring: Stratton, The Jewelry Company. Instagram @strattonhsv
Southern tastemaker and Huntsville City Lifestyle Publisher Amy Bailey shares her favorite Mother’s Day Gift Ideas. Whether you are looking for mom, a wife, a friend, a grandmother, an aunt, or daughter, these gifts from local stores are sure to bring smiles.
Being An Encourager In An Increasingly Negative World
ARTICLE BY KARI KAMPAKIS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY HEATHER SWANNER
When my uncle passed away peacefully at home with his family around his bedside, there were many tears cried and many words of love spoken.
The nurses from hospice encouraged the family to keep talking even if he appeared to be unconscious.
My aunt later told me, “We were still talking as he left this world.”
It’s important to reflect on this insight: Of all the senses humans possess, hearing is the last one to go. In our final moments on Earth, when our bodies shut down and our minds drift away, we may still have the capacity to hear words being spoken.
If that doesn’t testify to the power of words, then what does?
And if spoken words can comfort people as they take their last breaths on Earth, imagine what they might do for people who are alive and fully conscious.
I’ve heard it said before that people will always remember the hurtful things said to them – but rarely do they remember the hurtful words they speak. Isn’t that the truth? Haven’t we all been wounded by words that were carelessly spoken to us, yet also been guilty of inflicting wounds without realizing the damage we’ve done?
Maya Angelou once said, “Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.” One area where we can all do better is being more mindful of our words.
Will we choose words that build people up – or tear them down?
Will we love people as they are – or make them feel like a mistake?
Will we be encouragers – or critics?
Counselors say that it takes about five compliments to counterbalance every criticism. Given how negative our culture has become and how overtly critical people are, it is clear why we need more encouragers.
Chances are, you know both critics and encouragers. You know critics who like to complain, nitpick, rant, gossip, or stir the pot of drama. They pride themselves on being the mouthpiece of what others are ‘too scared’ to say. They speak without love, hope, or tact. And through technology, they have a playground. Behind the anonymity of a screen, they let keyboard courage take over, and they write irresponsible remarks that they’d never say to someone’s face.
On the flip side, you may also know encouragers. Encouragers understand our broken world and are aware that people have shortcomings, yet they magnify what is right. They exude a feeling of warmth, control their emotions, comfort and inspire others, and leave you feeling good about yourself and the potential inside of you.
Each day, we decide which camp we want to fall in. Who do we hope to be more like? Who do we want to surround us? What kind of person do we want to be –and how do we want to use the gift of our voice?
Jesus said that we can identify trees by the fruit they produce. It’s worth asking ourselves: What conversations am I starting? What reactions am I stirring? Do my words and actions help others become the best version of themselves? While actions speak louder than words, the words we speak matter.
Sun, sand, spa days, international cuisine, and the most colorful arts scene in America, Miami is a playground for the senses and a great mother-daughter trip, especially for a teenage daughter. A quick flight and you are in a mecca of learning experiences, from trying Peruvian cuisine to strolling among the bustling arts district of Wynwood.
La Mar by Gaston Acurio: Executive Chef Diego Oka prepares dishes from ceviche to causas to Whole Fish Nikkei. You will have a culinary learning experience like no other.
Le Jardinier: A meal to remember from start to finish. The modern, light-filled space welcomes you, but as lovely as the decor is, it’s food and drinks at this Michelin Star restaurant that you and your daughter won’t forget. Offering incredible mocktails for the younger ones.
Joe’s Stone Crab: This icon needs no introduction. Stone crab season runs from October-May and for the best stone crab claws, this is the place. Be prepared to wait.
Mandarin Oriental Miami: This Brickell Key hotel offers spacious rooms with views of Biscayne Bay and downtown Miami. Enjoy a gorgeous pool and its private beach. Soak up the sun and watch the beautiful boats in Biscayne Bay. Off the party scene of South Beach, this hotel offers a more serene atmosphere with a world class spa and cuisine.
Wynwood Arts District: A must-stop is Wynwood Walls. Beautiful, colorful, funky murals cover entire walls, plus an array of boutiques like Frangipani and Aviator Nation as well as coffee shops and cafes line the streets.
Miami Design District : A hub of art and fashion, this district will be a favorite of yours and your daughter’s. Whether you shop ‘til you drop or just window browse, it is a fun place to people watch and see fashion at its finest.
If you are raising a girl who loves the outdoors, there is no other place in the Southeast that offers the immersive nature experiences like the Great Smoky Mountains. On the itinerary any given day - fly fishing, horseback riding, hiking, secret swimming holes, and white water rafting. The Great Smoky Mountains are just a 4 1/2 hour drive from North Alabama making the destination far easier to travel to than the beach. We visit multiple times a year and with each trip, there is always something new to explore.
Sweet Onion: Located in downtown Waynesville, this restaurant has fans driving in from Asheville for its fare. Might we suggest the grilled trout as a great option for the localvore.
Suwana: Thai in the Smokies? Why not? This Thai restaurant nestled on Main Street in downtown Waynesville is superb.
The Patio: Great sandwiches, salads, and soups with a beautiful courtyard patio. Also dog friendly.
The Schoolhouse on Hemphill: This schoolhouse turned Airbnb was built in the 1800s, and was one of the first schools in the area. Off a main road, the schoolhouse has all the modern amenities - fully stocked kitchen, coffee bar, WiFi, copper bath tub - plus some not-so modern amenities like rocking chairs, a screened porch, and a mountain stream to relax by. Airbnb.com The Schoolhouse on Hemphill.
The Swag: The Swag is a Relais & Châteaux property with gorgeous alpine interiors, chef-prepared meals, the area’s best hiking trails right outside your door, and the best views.
Downtown Waynesville - Picturesque downtown Waynesville offers great restaurants, antique stores, children’s boutiques, bakeries, art galleries and the iconic Mast General Store.
Cataloochee Guest Ranch: This ranch offers horseback riding through mountain trails reaching over 5,200 miles above sea level.
Hiking: With short hikes like Waterrock Knob, Art Loeb Trail, Graveyard Fields or Max Patch, or a longer venture like the Cataloochee Divide, there is no shortage of adventure in this part of Mother Nature’s playground.
It is no secret that the Music City is beyond popular these days. So for residents and tourists that means there is tons to do. With the plethora of restaurants, activities, and hotels, we sought out the best of Nashville for you and your daughter.
Henrietta Red: Female powerhouse duo Julie Sullivan and Allie Poindexter joined forces to create one of the best restaurants in Nashville. This is an easy favorite of my daughter because she loves oysters.
Etch: Extra yum and extra convenient to all points downtown. If you are staying downtown for a Predators game or the Nashville Symphony, you can have a great weekend getaway without getting in the car.
Noelle: Sleek, beautiful hotel located downtown that is close to everything. The Noelle boasts a gorgeous lobby, coffee shop, and cool antique features. A plus for fur babies, it is pet friendly with no pet fee. Did I mention there is a water bar on each floor? Yes. Serving chilled, sparking, and ambient. Stay hydrated my friends.
Hermitage Hotel: If you are looking for a more traditional hotel whose opulence has stood the test of time, the Hermitage Hotel is an excellent option for you and your ‘Southern Eloise’. Located in downtown yet tucked away from the noise.
The Gulch: Shop Lululemon, Lucchese, and an array of unique Nashville shops.
Cheekwood Botanical Garden: Cheekwood is an excellent place for children offering treehouses, flower gardens, and summer camps. It also boasts various exhibits and special family events throughout the year.
Pinewood Social: A coffee shop, bowling alley, and in the summer their swimming pools are open. It is like a social club you do not have to qualify to be a part of.
With so much room to spread out, you may feel like you’re on your own planet when you vacation with Spectrum Resorts in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama.
The Beach Club Resort & Spa’s five football fields of private beaches are perfect for sunning by day and stargazing by night. Onsite restaurants, beach boutique, full-service spa, and organized children’s activities mean once you’re here, you have all you need and never have to leave.
Turquoise Place’s luxury condos with balcony hot tubs and outdoor kitchens offer all the comforts of home. You’ll be lightyears from a boring vacation with the resort’s lazy river, oversized indoor and outdoor pools, poolside bar and grill, and exclusive lounge.
WITH $99 DOWN on vacations +90 days in advance.
SpectrumResorts.com
WHY DID YOU WANT TO LEARN TO PAINT AFTER RETIREMENT?
After retiring from BellSouth, I did contract work which took me all over the U.S. I observed how other communities were telling their stories using visual art, and I thought what a great opportunity to preserve, promote, educate and share the rich history of Old Town, but I had to learn how to draw and paint first, so I did.
HOW IMPORTANT IS IT TO YOU TO USE THE LANDSCAPE AROUND YOU?
I use water from the Tennessee River to paint. It’s symbolic of the unity and flow of Old Town. The river has such beauty and many families used it for their livelihoods.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT LIVING IN ALABAMA?
Alabama has a huge Civil Rights history. We should tell the true stories whether good or bad, so future generations will not make the same mistakes. They need to know the struggles of our parents, grandparents and beyond.
To arrange an art viewing, please call 256.353.7805.
Old Town was the first community established in the city of Decatur in 1821. The first hospital in the city was built and operated by a black physician and surgeon, Dr. Willis E. Sterrs. The community had its own black doctors, dentist, lawyers, shop owners, and churches. The Scottsboro Boys Trials were held in Decatur and the Scottsboro Boys Civil Rights Museum is currently in development.
A Decatur Artist Paints Stories Future Generations Must Know.
“We should tell the true stories whether good or bad, so future generations will not make the same mistakes.”
The power of flowers is known to heal. It was during the pandemic and after her father passed that publisher Amy Bailey found healing and peace in creating floral arrangements. As John Muir said, “Everybody needs beauty as well as bread, places to play in and pray in, where nature may heal and give strength to the soul.”
For Flowers And Supplies: Davis Wholesale Florist; Trader Joe’s
For Sheers: Brooks&Collier
For Containers: Davis Wholesale Florist; In Bloom; Antique Stores
“A woman once told me, ‘Women are like flowers, uniquely made but each beautiful.’ I thought about this further and how each flower through rain and sunshine becomes this beautiful creation. The flowers aren’t judging which one is prettier, taller, has more petals - they grow each on their own at their own pace to reveal their beauty.”
We hope you’ll soon find extra time for reading—by the pool, at the beach, or in a hammock in your backyard. Whatever your spring or summer escape, here are a few recommended reads, specially selected by The Snail on the Wall, Huntsville’s independent bookstore. You can order books of any kind at snailonthewall.com, and we’ll deliver them to your doorstep.
Hanks is a natural storyteller as he proved with his 2017 story collection Uncommon Type. In this entertaining new novel, a real World War II soldier becomes the inspiration for a 1970s comic book, and then eventually a 21st-century superhero movie. Anyone will enjoy this thoughtful, heartwarming celebration of the movie business. And The Snail on the Wall has a limited number of signed copies!
Set amid the beautiful gardens of New York’s elite during the Gilded Age, this historical novel follows a woman named Sadie Fremd as she attempts to take over her family’s nursery while also finding ways to give beauty to the community outside the privileged garden walls.
Get ready for a wild ride through the world of publishing. One writer is a rising star, until she dies unexpectedly. Another writer is an unknown, until she steals the novel of her now-dead friend. Can June Hayward get away with becoming “Juniper Song” and passing for the author of a masterpiece about Chinese history? You’ll be riveted by this exploration of identity, race, and the cutthroat book industry.
This magical story starts with a woman’s ongoing search for the long-lost sister who disappeared from their English village during the 1930s. Can a mysterious book hold the answers to Flora’s whereabouts? The Snail is hosting two events with Alabama author Patti Callahan Henry, on May 15 and June 6, with the chance for local readers to meet her.
Strafford and Quirke are Irish detectives with an uneasy working relationship. You don’t need to have read Banville’s previous two novels to get involved in this latest case, which takes the two men from Dublin to Italy to Bavaria to solve a crime that may put their own lives in peril.
HUNTSVILLE’S INDEPENDENT BOOKSTORE
You can order online at snailonthewall.com or attend a pop-up or book signing event hosted by owner Lady Smith.
A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.
MAY 6TH
UNFRAMED: Off To The Races
HUNTSVILLE MUSEUM OF ART
4:00 PM
The Huntsville Museum of Art Guild will present its annual Derby-themed fundraising event UNFRAMED: Off to the Races! Enjoy live jazz music, Derby fare and drinks, and The Kentucky Derby race which will be featured on large screens. Tickets are $95 per person and proceeds benefit The Huntsville Museum of Art.
MAY 13TH-14TH
Tinker Bell by Fantasy Playhouse Children’s Theater & Academy
HUNTSVILLE BOTANICAL GARDEN
When all the fairies in Neverland start to disappear, Tinker Bell zips to London to find a friend. She meets Peter who follows her back to Neverland. All is fun and games in this world of flowers, animals, and pirates until Peter welcomes others back to Tink’s island. A new, twinkling light shines on themes of imagination and friendship from this feisty fairy’s POV. May 13th, 10:00 AM & 1:00 PM and May 14th, 12:00 PM & 3:00 PM
MAY 20TH
Martina McBride
THE ORION AMPHITHEATER
8:00 PM
Huntsville Hospital Foundation's 2022 Huntsville Classic made history as the first event in the Orion Amphitheater. Don't miss out in 2023, as they continue to build on the momentum to have the biggest Classic concert ever, featuring Martina McBride. Visit www.theorionhuntsville. com/events for more information.
