Two Eighty, AL March 2018

Two Eighty MARCH 2018

TwoEightyLifestyle.com

L

I

F

E

S

T

Y

L

E

â„¢

HOME BUILT BY FERGUSON

GET THE LOOK: NEWLY VINTAGE

BUTTERNUT SQUASH AU GRATIN

WANT A 3RD ROW SUV THAT DOESN'T COMPROMISE LUXURY FOR A GREAT PRICE?

2017 Mazda CX-9 Signature Automatic | AWD HIGHLIGHTED FE ATURES • • • • • • • •

Navigation System Blind Spot Sensor Electronic Stability Lane Departure Distance Pacing Cruise Control Leather Upholstery Automatic Temperature Control Emergency Communication System

80 Drivers Way Pelham, Alabama 35124 205.226.0929 www.medcentermazda.com

Michael Maniscalco DMD, MAGD offers quality cosmetic dentistry in the Birmingham area. Beautifying your smile may be very simple. If you would like to enhance your smile call us for a consultation. Come see why people of all walks of life choose Dr. Maniscalco to enhance their smile.

Mimicking Nature, Beautiful Smiles From Every Angle.

Taylor Jones of the Tiny Closet Boutique

“Love my smile, Thank you Dr. Maniscalco!”

Photos by Frank Carnaggio

• Native of Birmingham • American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry since 1993 • Over 25 year focusing on Smile Design • Master of the Academy of General Dentistry • Official Dentist for Miss Alabama USA , Miss Alabama Teen USA, and Mrs. Alabama USA. Michael Maniscalco DMD, MAGD

3419 Colonnade Parkway, Suite 700, Birmingham, Alabama 35243

205.967.9100 | GreatSmilesBirmingham.com

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Home Is Where the Heart Is THE CONCEPT OF HOME IS DIFFERENT FOR EVERYONE. For some, home is where the family is. It’s the place where weekends were— or still are—filled with baby snuggles, bedtime stories and Saturday morning cartoons. The place where the smell of bacon and pancakes fills the air on Sunday mornings, "do your homework before you go outside" is a daily mantra and unsnoozable slobbery dog kisses take the place of your morning alarm.

MARCH 2018 PUBLISHER

Glenn Frey | Glenn.Frey@LifestylePubs.com EDITOR

Nicolette Martin | Nicolette.Martin@LifestylePubs.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

For others, home is where the rest is. It’s the place where, after a long day, you go to relax. Where you spend meaningful time with your significant other, enjoy home-cooked meals and settle in on a comfy couch to catch up on the week’s latest guilty pleasure TV shows.

Julie Brown Patton, Nicolette Martin, Charmella Williams CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Joseph De Sciose

For some, home is where the work is. It’s where you build your dreams, where you start your businesses and where you work day in and day out for success.

And for us here at Two Eighty Lifestyle, home is where the heart is—it's where we get to share meaningful stories with all of you.

Whatever your home may be, we hope you find a piece of it here in this month's issue.

Glenn Frey, Publisher

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER CHIEF SALES OFFICER CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DIRECTOR OF MARKETING ART DIRECTOR OPERATIONS DIRECTOR EDITORIAL MANAGER EDITORIAL AD MANAGER AD COORDINATORS

LAYOUT DESIGNERS

PUBLISHER SUPPORT EXECUTIVE ACCOUNTANT APPLICATION ARCHITECT WEB DEVELOPERS

Steven Schowengerdt Matthew Perry DeLand Shore Brad Broockerd Sara Minor Janeane Thompson Nicolette Martin Victoria Perry Lindsey Howard Chad Jensen Cyndi Harrington Alicia Huff Adella Wrisinger Jessica Soetaert Cyndi King Dana Rudolph Emily Stout Hailey Stepanek Melanie Carlisle Randa Makeen Michael O’Connell Scott Lavigne

ALABAMA | ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | FLORIDA | GEORGIA | IDAHO ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MICHIGAN | MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA NEVADA | NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | SOUTH CAROLINA TENNESSEE | TEXAS | UTAH | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

TwoEightyLifestyle.com ON THE COVER Jason Thomas’ renovated home in Greystone.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOSEPH DE SCIOSE 4

Two Eighty Lifestyle | March 2018

514 W 26th St., Kansas City, MO

Proverbs 3:5-6 Two Eighty Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Two Eighty areas’ most affluent neighborhoods.

Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions.

No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.

Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Two Eighty Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Direct

Importing

Hand Washing

Since 1972

Best Selection...Best Prices...Best Quality...Guaranteed.

Full Service...

Oriental Rug Cleaning | Repairing Mothproofing | Scotchgarding Enzyme Treating | Appraisals | Trading In-House Decorators Available

Our Orientals are made under the watchful eye and the steady hand of perfectionists. We proudly offer in limited quantities,

unique rugs of the highest quality.

To those who appreciate the best, we offer the opportunity to invest in excellence which will endure.

We carry all sizes, including hard-to-find 12x15, 12x18 and larger runners up to 30 feet.

Let our in-house decorators assist you in finding the right rug for your room.

Bring your sizes and color swatches.

Shop where the best designers shop.

2544 18th Street South, Homewood, AL 35209 205.870.4444 | www.Nilipour.com

Monday - Friday 9 - 5 | Saturday 10 - 4

INSIDE THE ISSUE MARCH 2018

FEATURES 12 Unique Renovated Open House A Man’s Home is His Castle— Literally, in this Case

20 Get the Look: Newly Vintage Create a Rustic, Elegant Bedroom with Stray Cats Home Decor

24 Butternut Squash Au Gratin Mealfit Founder and Chef Thomas Cox Shares a Favorite Recipe

20 12

28 Built by Ferguson An Introduction into the Woodwork Community

24

28

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Around Town

12

Open House

16 DIY 24 Culinary Creations 28 Artists Palette 30 Lifestyle Calendar 34 Parting Thoughts

YO U R OW N P R I VAT E P E N I N S U L A O N

Magnificent

L A K E H E AT H E R

This iconic mansion offers the finest quality, distinctive taste and comfortable livability. “Grace Cove Estate” raises the bar for luxury living with 40-foot ceilings, domed skylight, intricate moldings, exquisite pool with waterfall, 4-floor elevator plus a 4,200 country French guest home. Enjoy tranquil privacy and 360° lake views inside the secure gates of prestigious Lake Heather.

THE PAM AUSLEY TEAM Selling homes in every price range. Specializing in properties with privacy, views and lakes.

K i m b o 2 0 5 - 5 4 2 -7 3 7 1 | P a m 2 0 5 - 5 1 6 - 6 8 0 9 RE/MAX Southern Homes 280

The Pam Ausley Team

See all listings and photos at PamAusleyTeam.com 110 I nve rne ss Co rne rs , B i rmi ngha m, A L 35242

We have properties for sale from Mountain Brook, Vestavia to Chelsea, Montevallo and beyond.

Large estates, horse farms, as well as garden homes, town homes and family homes.

It would be our great pleasure to help you. Our clients become friends for life!

T H E I N D I A N S P R I N G S E STAT E !

THE

signature P R O P E R T Y I N T H I S

LOV E D A N D S O U G H T-A F T E R A R E A .

An architectural jewel with art quality finishes throughout. Every window frames inspirational vistas of pastures, mountains, gardens, pond, fountains. Outdoor spaces and porches abound. The 34 acre estate adjoins Oak Mountain State Park. Additional acreage is also available— this property is listed separately and includes a log cabin, pool w/pool house, Koi pond and barn.

AROUND TOWN before the Drayer merger, Upstream also announced the completion of four partnership acquisitions in Washington, Colorado, Oregon and Tennessee, expanding its portfolio of physical therapy businesses.

The combination of Upstream and Drayer will encompass a footprint of more than 560 owned and managed clinics in 27 states serving more than 4 million patients annually. The combined organization will employ more than 5,000 associates.

BBVA COMPASS OFFERS ALABAMA-BRANDED VISA DEBIT CARD TO CELEBRATE CRIMSON TIDE'S CHAMPIONSHIP In what is becoming a frequent tradition, BBVA Compass will offer an updated Alabamabranded Visa debit card, giving University of Alabama's football fans another way to display their Crimson Tide colors after the team's 17th national championship win.

BBVA Compass also offered similar debit cards after the school's championship victories in 2012, 2013 and 2016. The card will feature an exclusive

Father Nature Landscapes, the Birmingham-

image of the iconic crimson and white football

based landscape design, construction and con-

helmet inscribed with the number 17 for new and

sulting firm, recently announced the launch of its

current checking account customers.

nationwide franchise program. The program, ini-

Customers receive one free personalized check

tially being launched across the South and East

card with their BBVA Compass ClearChoice

Coast, will help qualified professionals create a

Free Checking account and BBVA Compass

dynamic customer experience in the landscape

ClearChoice Premium Checking account. All

design and construction industry.

other checking account customers and custom-

Founded in 2006 by brothers Daniel and

ers who currently have a personalized card may

Andrew McCurry, Father Nature Landscapes is

obtain the card for a $10 fee.

the answer to the industry's challenges of scal-

The card is among a suite of Bama-branded products in the bank's Bama Banking program.

For more information on Bama Banking and customized card options, visit BBVACompass.com.

UPSTREAM REHABILITATION MERGER CREATES FOURTH-LARGEST OUTPATIENT PHYSICAL THERAPY COMPANY IN US Birmingham-based Upstream Rehabilitation has announced the recent merger with Hummelstown,

8

FATHER NATURE LANDSCAPES LAUNCHES NATIONWIDE FRANCHISE PROGRAM

ability and optimization. By leveraging expertise in construction and operational management, the Father Nature Landscapes franchise opportunity provides a framework for aspiring landscape professionals and savvy investors.

Qualified franchise owners will gain access to Father Nature Landscapes' vast market knowledge and time-tested business model, in addition to comprehensive operational training and ongoing support.

To learn more about the Father Nature

Pennsylvania-based Drayer Physical Therapy Institute,

Landscapes

making this new entity the fourth-largest provider of

FranchiseFNL.com, call 205.774.1342 or email

physical therapy services in the United States. Just

info@fathernaturelandscapes.com.

Two Eighty Lifestyle | March 2018

franchise

opportunity,

visit

JK TAYLOR

AMERICAN FAMILY CARE OPENS NEWEST CLINIC IN MOUNTAIN BROOK American Family Care, the nation's leading

shopjktaylor.com

provider of urgent care and accessible primary care, opened its newest clinic. Located in

1112 cullman shopping center nW (256) 735-4380

the Birmingham suburb of Mountain Brook, the clinic is AFC's 21st clinic in Central Alabama.

AFC's Mountain Brook location is conveniently

@jktaylorcullman |

jktaylorcullman

|

@jktaylorcullman

located on Highway 280, across from Whole Foods, in the Cahaba Village Plaza.

Like all AFC medical centers, the new Mountain Brook location was designed, equipped and staffed to provide accessible primary care, urgent care and

online!

VISIT US

occupational health services. The clinic features a high-tech, high touch approach, including digital X-rays, on-site lab testing, state-of-the-art diagnostics and electronic medical records. The new location will also have extended hours to 8 p.m., with no appointments necessary, seven days a week.

The new clinic's opening was accelerated in response to the country's flu epidemic, which prompted Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey to declare a state of emergency. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the entire continental U.S. is experiencing widespread flu—the first time in the 13 years of the current tracking system that has happened.

WHAT ’S ON OUR WEBSITE? Past Issues • Current Articles Business Directory • Contest Registration We are always accepting submissions for announcements you’d like to see included in our Around Town section. Submissions are accepted via the Contact

Two Eighty L

I

F

E

S

T

Y

L

E

™

VISIT US AT TwoEightyLifestyle.com

Us tab at TwoEightyLifestyle.com.

March 2018 | Two Eighty Lifestyle

9

The L ake Martin Experience™ 8404 County Road 34 Dadeville, AL 36853 ph) 256.929.3265 www.thelakemartinexperience.com

Who We Who We Are Are

Mindy Obrien, REALTOR®

Michael Langston, Broker/Owner

Michael has spent most of his life on Lake Martin. Growing up in Opelika in the 1960s, both his and his extended family bought second homes on the lake. He spent every summer weekend exploring every inch of Lake Martin - as only a child and then teenager can.

After selling his marketing company, he permanently moved to the lake in 2002 and went to work for Russell Lands Real Estate. He has grown to be one of Lake Martin’s premier REALTORS® and prominent leading the Russell Land’s Dadeville office in sales as their top producer.

He was also instrumental in the sales and marketing of many of the new numerous national and international awards for being a Top Marketing and Producing REALTOR®. He attributes much of his success to the many great REALTORS® and Brokers that were his mentors over the past 15 years, such as Mickey Phillips, Lee Lester, and John Margeson who have tools and knowledge that he still uses daily.

In 2016, Michael saw a need for a company strongly dedicated to promoting and selling property on the ‘Dadeville/Atlanta side’ of Lake Martin. He formed his own Real Estate Brokerage has grown to be THE top listing brokerage in our market – from Martin Dam to the Highway 280 Bridge.

Windy Carter, Associate Broker the past three years. Her attention to detail and in-depth knowledge of Lake Martin has allowed her to quickly rise to become our Top Producing REALTOR® for 2016.

She was born and raised in Dadeville and has called Lake Martin home her entire life. She and her husband, Michael Carter, have owned several retail businesses in Dadeville. While she is more than qualified and well versed on all of our Lake Martin developments, she specializes in selling lake property outside of these and has strong relationships with many of our area builders.

WE ARE LAKE MARTIN™

Originally from Alexander City, Mindy got her REALTOR® license in 2013 in Texas. She met Michael Langston when they were each asked to give a presentation on real estate marketing. In 2015, she finally answered her heart’s call to move back to Alabama and the Lake Martin area. She as Michael’s second-to-none approach to marketing. Mindy has been a very successful part of the LME team since then. She represents sales

Preserve at Stoney Ridge and our newest development concept for our area - Village West! Her love and knowledge of the lake and commitment to her clients helps her zero in on buyer’s and sellers’ specific needs, Martin Experience.

Michael Carter, REALTOR®

Michael has been a REALTOR® for over 25 years and is a life-long resident of Dadeville. He is the President of the Dadeville Chamber of Commerce and a member for the Tallapoosa Board of Education.

Michael and his wife, Windy Carter, have owned several commercial Experience. After growing up on Highway 49, Michael is particularly knowledgeable about the Stillwaters community. He started working there at fifteen years old when ground was broken on the neighborhood.

He and Windy have lived in Stillwaters for 25 years. Michael’s deep ties to our area give him a unique perspective on Lake Martin real estate.

Jenni Mims, REALTOR® Media Coordinator in 2016. She received her real estate license when she moved to Auburn over twenty years ago. After she and her husband had two children, she left real estate to start a retail establishment in Auburn.

In 2008, she and her husband bought their lake home. After spending every weekend on Lake Martin, they finally made it their full time home in 2014. Jenni has become relicensed as a full-time REALTOR® and now Martin Experience developments.

Welcome to the other way of life.

We are Professional Grade

Alabama’s Largest GMC-Buick Dealer View Our Inventory Online billsmithbuickgmc.com

Call now: (256) 734-4472 1940 SECOND AVE. NW • CULLMAN, AL

OPEN HOUSE

12

Two Eighty Lifestyle | March 2018

Unique Renovated Open House A MAN'S HOME IS HIS CASTLE—LITERALLY, IN THIS CASE ARTICLE JULIE BROWN PATTON | PHOTOGRAPHY JOSEPH DE SCIOSE

THE CURRENT HOMEOWNER OF 5615 CANONGATE LANE

From having studied abroad, Jason knew he liked architec-

IN SHOAL CREEK HAS BEEN "DRAWING HOUSES" SINCE

tural elements of chateaus and castles and incorporated as

HE WAS A YOUNG BOY. So, it was only natural for him to create

many of those design touches as he could. Daylight spills into

the European-inspired renovation plans for this 10,000-square-

every room.

foot-plus house, built in 1995.

"I had two special ceiling murals created with one taking 14

Jason Thomas, entrepreneur and real estate investor, says

months to finish, six limestone fireplaces done, a customized

he truly enjoyed the whole process of creating freehand home

castle entry front door, a Ralph Lauren closet built, and imported

renderings for the renovation he and his construction-related

marble placed in the kitchen," says Jason, who now is finishing

cousin, Chad Allbright, executed.

the outdoor swimming pool.

CONTINUED >

BIRMINGHAM'S OLDEST & MOST EXPERIENCED REMODELER

You’ve done the dreaming, pinning, clipping and sorting. Let our Professional Designers help you design something extraordinary.

FREE IN-HOME DESIGN CONSULTATION BY ONE OF OUR

Award Winning Designers

K I TC H E N | B AT H | D E S I G N FREE CONSULTATION WITH 3 LEVEL PRICE QUOTES

2726 Chandlar Place Drive Pelham, Alabama 35124 | 205-642-8295 | KitchenAndBathDimensions.com March 2018 | Two Eighty Lifestyle

13

OPEN HOUSE

(CON TI N U ED)

BASEMENT DEN A glass wall opens in the middle by dual swinging doors that release both inside and out. A wine cellar commands a corner. A full-sized kitchen adjoins the room.

"The best part of the entire house is the back, which is nearing completion. The outdoor living space in this place is insane," he says.

Outside features include copper gutters, a 10-foot solid bronze fountain, circular driveway and brand-new landscaping with extensive lighting. There's also a luxury pool with an infinity edge overlooking a private lake lot, in addition to a covered and heated 2,000-square-foot patio area and flagstone fire pit.

The exterior also has a private living room with surround sound TV, a floor-to-ceiling limestone fireplace and multiple other TVs that sync for parties.

The home is located within the Greystone Golf & Country Club.

Its main level includes soaring 25-feet tall ceilings, imported crystal chandeliers, a tea room, heavy crown molding, a designer library with a custom leather ceiling and a private master courtyard.

"This was the first and last house I looked at when I bought it in 2014," Jason says."I immediately fell in love with it, and it has a great story in that its original owner, Wilma Thompson, designed it herself when it was built. And she lives right down the road, so we have a great connection about the house from the design standpoint."

Jason says he also enjoyed working with local interior designer Ansley Turncliff, of ATM Designs, to find the just-right home decor.

He also says he's looking forward to now fully enjoying all the home's amenities while still recovering from a broken back that occurred in a near-fatal car accident.

14

Two Eighty Lifestyle | March 2018

Homeowner Jason Thomas' personal rendering of the doorway before the renovation.

FORMAL DEN Floor-to-ceiling windows and the den’s custom mural are captivating, as the heart of the home. French doors open to a covered patio and banquet-size outdoor dining table.

The sunsets are unreal.

March 2018 | Two Eighty Lifestyle

15

DIY

TONE + TEXTURE STYLE YOUR HOME IN TONES AND TEXTURES WITH DESIGN HELP FROM HOUZZ INTERIOR DESIGN EXPERTS ARTICLE NICOLETTE MARTIN

16

Two Eighty Lifestyle | March 2018

WOVEN + KNOTTED LIVING BOHO-CHIC WITH WOVEN TEXTURES AND MACRAMÉ Decorate your space with handmade textures such as the modern, maker revival of 1970s macramé and year-round tropical feel of wicker.

MACRAMÉ Made through knotting instead of weaving, macramé can add a unique touch in many various ways. Houzz contributor Laura Gaskill suggests incorporating it as nursery decor, plant hangers, wall hangings and modern fiber arts. WICKER According to Houzz contributor Yanic Simard, “the best way to really embrace the luxury-cottage appeal of wicker and rattan is to combine different forms of the two in one space ... Look for other unexpected places to add a natural twist to your home with a new material woven into your palette.”

March 2018 | Two Eighty Lifestyle

17

A COMPLETE OUTDOOR EXPERIENCE Dreamscape Landscape’s focus is to help homeowners create an outdoor look that fits their style and budget.

Our process is simple: our team meets with you at your home, and together we create a plan that best suits your needs. We offer a wide variety of services, including hardscapes, landscaping, outdoor kitchens, and wood design. Whatever project you want to tackle, Dreamscape Landscape is ready to make your dream a reality.

HARDSCAPES PATIOS, WALKWAYS, AND OUTDOOR LIVING OPTIONS

LIGHTING LED ILLUMINATION FOR EXTERIOR FEATURES

IRRIGATION SPRINKLER SYSTEMS AND IRRIGATION NEEDS

OUTDOOR KITCHENS KITCHENS, FIRE PITS, AND OUTDOOR LIVING SPACES

LANDSCAPING MASTERFUL LANDSCAPE INSTALLATIONS

SECRET GARDEN LEARN TO LANDSCAPE LIKE A PRO

7854 HWY. 11, Chelsea, Alabama 35043

205.678.2411 | www.MYDREAMSCAPELANDSCAPE.com

GET THE LOOK: Newly Vintage CREATE A RUSTIC, ELEGANT BEDROOM WITH STRAY CATS HOME DECOR

ARTICLE JULIE BROWN PATTON 20

Two Eighty Lifestyle | March 2018

REDISCOVER "STRAY BEAUTY" AT STRAY CATS HOME

The store's one-of-a-kind pieces include beds, bookshelves, cabi-

DECOR. Owner Kim Padgett is a custom home furniture maker who

nets, chests, coffee tables, dressers, end tables, farm tables, hutches,

specializes in designing and building reclaimed wood furniture and

islands, sofa beds, swing beds and vanities.

decor. Customers can get handcrafted, new and old home accents at the store located at 3101 Fourth Ave. S. in Birmingham.

Kim created the business in 1999 to share her passion for quality rustic, farmhouse-style furniture and decor.

"We build out of reclaimed barn wood, tin or ceiling tin and

Nine out of 10 times when customers stroll into Stray Cats Home Decor to buy a particular item, Kim says they get inspired and start mixing and matching to create the look they want.

"We're glad to make things with your colors to your size, so we handle special orders all the time."

other salvage materials. We refer to our craftsmanship as rustic

For

elegance," she says.

StrayCatsHomeDecor.com .

more

information

on

Stray

Cats

Home

Decor,

visit

CONTINUED >

March 2018 | Two Eighty Lifestyle

21

GET THE LOOK: NEWLY VINTAGE

1.

(CON TI N UED)

get the look

TO CREATE A RUSTIC, ELEGANT BEDROOM, CONSIDER COMBINING THE FOLLOWING ITEMS, ALL CUSTOM-MADE IN ALABAMA BY STRAY CATS:

2.

3.

5.

4.

1. Trestle chandelier, black metal with hint of brushed beige/gold color, $399.99 | 2. Reclaimed TV cabinet with open center shelf, featuring two drawers over doors, adjustable middle open shelf, adjustable shelf behind each door and corrugated tin ends, $1,199.99 | 3. Sugar mold candleholder, seven holes with metal stand, $30.99 (Candles and tin cups sold separately.) | 4. Reclaimed barn wood and bead board, king size, $699.99 | 5. Reclaimed wood three-drawer chest, approximately 36 inches wide, 20 inches deep and 36 inches in height, $799.99

22

Two Eighty Lifestyle | March 2018

YOUR FAMILY WELLNESS CENTER

GREYSTONE CHIROPRACTIC is your neighborhood center for true

health and wellness! We offer pediatric and family wellness care, nutritional support, massage therapy, breast thermography, and informative monthly lectures on health topics, geared to educate and empower you and your family to get and stay healthy, naturally!

• Atlas Orthogonal Chiropractic (no-force chiropractic) • Family wellness care

• Breast thermography • Nutritional support • Wellness workshops

5426 HIGHWAY 280 E SUITE 7

205-981-8090

GREYSTONECHIROPRACTOR.COM

C orporate and L ifest y Le p ortraits

Joseph DeSciose Photography 205.266.7232 | joe@jdesciose.com | www.jdesciose.com

March 2018 | Two Eighty Lifestyle

23

CULINARY CREATIONS

Butternut Squash Au Gratin

MEALFIT FOUNDER AND CHEF THOMAS COX SHARES A FAVORITE RECIPE

24

Two Eighty Lifestyle | March 2018

What started in 2013 as a meal planning service, Mealfit has grown into a full catering service and kitchen here in the 280 area. To challenge the notion that healthy food is tasteless, founder and chef Thomas Cox created an unexpected Southern twist on health-conscious cuisine. Cox first began cooking in college at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, using his meal plan stipend to buy groceries and experiment with different foods. His personal favorites are seared and baked chicken thighs and butternut squash au gratin, top choices among his clientele as well.

The trick for the chicken thighs are simple: sear first, then bake. The squash, however, requires more precise measurements.

BUTTERNUT SQUASH AU GRATIN + 2 butternut squash + 1 cup heavy cream + 1 cup milk + 1 cup mozzarella cheese, grated + ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated + 3 cloves garlic, pressed or minced + 5 sprigs fresh thyme + 2 teaspoons Mealfit seasoning 1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. 2. In a large bowl, combine the heavy cream and milk.

3. Using a mandolin, slice the squash very thinly.

As you finish slicing each squash, place it into the

“I still love fried chicken; I still love fried okra— those Southern things.

But we started doing a little bit more healthy spin on cooking.”

cream milk mixture, so the slices don’t brown.

4. When the squash is sliced, add the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses to the bowl, along with the garlic, the leaves from the thyme sprigs, and Mealfit seasoning. Toss well.

5. Pour the squash and cream into an 8-by-11inch baking dish, then cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.

6. Place the baking dish on a sheet pan and bake for 45 min.

7. Remove the foil and bake for 30 more minutes, until the squash is tender, bubbling and golden brown on top.

8. Serve and enjoy!

March 2018 | Two Eighty Lifestyle

25

Inspired Living Take a walk through the woods.

Breathe in the fresh air.

Sit by the lake and listen to the sounds of nature.

Designed for those who value community but enjoy the serenity of nature. Find your dream homesite at The Highlands.

Schedule a tour today!

205-278-2602

TheHighlandsCommunity.com

HCR Cabinets & Countertops Custom Design, Sales & Installation

HCR Cabinets & Countertops Custom Design, Sales & Installation

A Design Team Creating Something For Everyone

Free Consultation, Design and Quote

Free Installation When Mentioning Two Eighty Lifestyle

Up to a $1500 Value Expires May 31, 2018

(205) 669-9550 | hcrcabinets.com | 235 Scotland Drive Alabaster, Alabama 35007 26

Two Eighty Lifestyle | March 2018

Passionate

WE’RE

ABOUT MAKING GOOD

SENSE WITH THE SPACE IN YOUR LIFE

Contact Us

CUSTOM CLOSETS-SHOWER DOORS & BATH-MIRRORS-SMART STORAGE

FOR A FREE ESTIMATE 8227 Parkway Drive Suite 101 Leeds, AL 35094 Office: 205-699-4331 Farry Cell: 205-369-4732

Home Owners

Designers

Home Builders

Specialty Projects

Birmingham Construction Specialties, Inc. | bcsalabama.net

LOSS OF ENERGY

NIGHT SWEATS

MEMORY LAPSE

WEIGHT GAIN

ANXIETY MIGRAINES

IRRITABILITY

HOT FLASHES

POOR FOCUS

LOW SEX DRIVE

PAINFUL INTERCOURSE

MOOD SWINGS

• Increases mental & physical energy • Lowers blood pressure & cholesterol • Improves sex drive & performance •

• Improves sleep quality • Decreases/eliminates night sweats • Increases muscle tone •

BIRMINGHAM 205-578-7772 LIFE CHANGING

RESULTS

SCHEDULE A FREE CONSULTATION

www.HormoneHealthTest.com www.HormoneHealthTest.com

LIFE CHANGING

RESULTS March 2018 | Two Eighty Lifestyle

27

ARTISTS PALETTE

Built by Ferguson AN INTRODUCTION INTO THE WOODWORK COMMUNITY

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN DOING THIS BUSINESS?

start getting very, very expensive. And I purposely try to

Eric Ferguson: Well, where we actually offer our ser-

keep mine cheaper than what you would pay if you went

vices to other people, it’s been since summertime of

to a store. And I think right now that’s where my niche

last year. I grew up building things—not necessarily furniture,

but

decks

and

porches and that sort of thing with my dad. We moved into our house in October of ’16, and [Amy] likes expensive things, so I thought I could build them for cheaper. So I put some of my skills to work, and her sister really wanted some things, so that kind of started it.

SO, WHAT IS YOUR SPECIALIZE IN? Eric: I would say rustic, furniture.

time, the effort, the passion—all of those things you need to operate a small business successfully. And it makes me want to go shop at local stores and support my community.“

CRAFT? WHAT DO YOU

farmhouse

“It's given me great insight into the

I’ve

—Amy Ferguson

been doing a lot of slid-

and focus is: more affordable, quality furniture that’s not necessarily the most expensive piece of wood.

IN WHAT WAYS DO YOU FEEL LIKE YOU'RE GIVING BACK TO YOUR COMMUNITY? Amy

From

a woman’s standpoint, I would say I love having a nice, clean home. I like having cool things to show off to people who come into my house, and so the fact that we get to help people make the place that they live beautiful and unique and different—I like that we

ing barn doors, barn door media consoles, blanket

get to do that for other people. Because I get so much joy

ladders—things in that realm. Not the super high-end

out of it, a part of me likes to think that I’m kind of helping

furniture, because you get up to that and it’s going to

create that joy too.

ARTICLE CHARMELLA WILLIAMS | PHOTOGRAPHY JOSEPH DE SCIOSE

28

Ferguson:

Two Eighty Lifestyle | March 2018

March 2018 | Two Eighty Lifestyle

29

MARCH

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

3&4

"THE WIZARD OF OZ"

RMTC CONSERVATORY SHOWCASE 2018

Virginia Samford Theatre

RMTC Cabaret Theatre

The Lion King," making its trium-

This classic tale, in which a Kan-

Prepare to be dazzled by RMTC’s Conser-

phant return! Tickets start at $65.

sas farm girl travels over the

vatory students! These talented young art-

TheaterLeague.com/Birmingham

rainbow to discover the mag-

ists, ages 6-18, perform musical numbers

/LionKing

ical power of home, has been

choreographed by Broadway veterans

entertaining audiences for gen-

and showbiz professionals. 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

erations.

and 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. both days.

Join

for

this

STARS

production based on the MGM movie by youth for youth! Reserved seating: $20, student: $15.

VirginiaSamfordTheatre.org

10 "GERSHWIN IN HOLLYWOOD"

as never before. And as the music soars, Pride Rock slowly emerges from the mist. This is "Disney’s

15-31 THIRD ANNUAL SHORT PLAY FESTIVAL: LOVE AROUND THE WORLD Theatre Downtown

Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center

This year's collection of short plays

Jemison Concert Hall

take the audience all around the

George Gershwin’s time in Hollywood

world, as a diverse cast of charac-

produced captivating new tunes and

ters takes us on a journey of secrets,

fresh arrangements of his popular

love and unlikely friendships. Six short

BJCC Exhibition Halls

Broadway melodies. Pianist Steve Beck

plays, with six directors, and more ac-

Are you looking for a one-of-a-kind

will solo in the delightful Second Rhap-

tors than you can shake a stick at!

party dress for your little princess?

sody, which features music from Gersh-

TheatreDowntown.org

Do you need a personalized Easter

win’s score for the film "Delicious," and

basket stuffed with candy, toys and

the orchestra will luxuriate in music from

games? Shopping to update your

"Shall We Dance," "Damsel in Distress"

home décor or garden accesso-

and more! Tickets: $25-$55. 8 p.m.

ries? Adults: $8, children 6-12: $2,

AysStephens.org

2-4 COTTONTAIL'S VILLAGE ARTS, CRAFTS AND GIFTS SHOW

23 & 25 "ROMEO & JULIET"

children under 6: free. 10 a.m. to 8

Samford University Wright Center

p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sat-

Family rivalries cannot fight the young

urday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday.

ChristmasVillageFestival.com/ Cottontails

2-4 "SWAN LAKE"

11 LIVE AT THE LYRIC: GRAHAM NASH

Alabama Symphony Orchestra. 7:30

time Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induct-

p.m. Friday and 2:30 p.m. Sunday. Tick-

ee—with Crosby, Stills, and Nash and

ets: $20-$90. OperaBirmingham.org

with the Hollies. He was also inducted

The tragic love story of Odette, a

as a solo artist and with CSN, and he is

beautiful princess turned into a

a Grammy winner. Doors open at 7 p.m;

swan by an evil sorcerer’s curse,

show begins at 8 p.m. Tickets start at

whose fate is to swim in a lake

$40.50. LyricBham.com

be broken by a prince who swears

24 TEDXBIRMINGHAM 2018: BEFORE X AFTER UAB's Alys Stephens Center

MAR 14-APR 1

his eternal love and devotion to her.

"DISNEY'S THE LION KING"

AlabamaBallet.org

BJCC Concert Hall

Giraffes strut. Birds swoop. Gazelles leap.

Two Eighty Lifestyle | March 2018

mined to be together forever. Featuring the Opera Birmingham Chorus and the

twice into the Songwriter’s Hall of Fame,

human guise, but her spell can only

consequences as the couple is deter-

Legendary artist Graham Nash is a two-

BJCC Concert Hall

of darkness may she assume her

love of Romeo and Juliet, with tragic

The Lyric Theater

filled with tears. Only in the hours

30

The entire Serengeti comes to life

1-4

Jemison Concert Hall

Speakers from a variety of backgrounds share a bold, new idea through a short talk of 18 minutes or less. The events also feature artistic CONTINUED >

3301 Lorna Road  Hoover, AL  978-5880

www.shaysjewelers.com

March 2018 | Two Eighty Lifestyle

31

MARCH

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR performances and hands-on, interac-

tive experiences. The participants at a TEDxBirmingham event represent a cross-disciplinary mix of people,

ranging from civic and business leaders to educators, technologists, art-

ists and more. Tickets: $100. 10 a.m.

TedxBirmingham.org

26-30 SPRING BREAK BLAST 18 RMTC Cabaret Theatre

Blast Camps are fun, weeklong

camps in which students experience musical theatre performance. They

build confidence by rehearsing a short script written specifically for RMTC, and they perform at the end of the week in front of a supportive community of family and friends. In preparing for a performance, students learn discipline and memorization skills. Ages 7-12. Tuition: $300.

RedMountainTheatre.org

We are always accepting submissions for events you'd like to see included in our Calendar section. Submissions are accepted via the Contact Us tab at TwoEightyLifestyle.com.

32

Two Eighty Lifestyle | March 2018

MARCH

WE ARE PROUD TO BE AN INDEPENDENT DEALER OF RELIABLE, DEPENDABLE, ENERGY EFFICIENT TRANE PRODUCTS Installation | Maintenance | Repair Service and Repair on All Major Models System Upgrades and Replacements At Herring Heating and Air Conditioning, earning our customers confidence through an untiring commitment to exceed their expectations has been our formula for over 50 years.

Contact Us!

(205) 942-0775 herringac.com

Specializing In Residential Repair & Replacement

$1000 OFF REPLACEMENT OF ANY COMPLETE HEATING & AIR SYSTEM

Al. State Certification #83086

Mention this ad. Valid through 03/31/18.

What A Girl Wants

whatagirlwants-cullman.com 115 1st Ave, NE Cullman, Al 35055 10 AM to 6 PM | 256-775-3722 March 2018 | Two Eighty Lifestyle

33

PARTING THOUGHTS

Dis pl ay Yo u r

TRANSFORMING BOOKCASES AND WALL SHELVES INTO STUNNING DISPLAYS CAN COME FROM ACCENTUATING COLLECTIONS, HOBBIES, ARTWORK, FUNCTIONAL ACCESSORIES OR TREASURED TCHOTCHKES. Whether your style is contemporary, traditional or eclectic, the Rosegate Design team at 6801 Cahaba Valley Road in Birmingham can help locate perfect home decor touches.

Now that spring is approaching, it's a great time to update items decorating home shelves, says Abby Leib,

interior decorator and Rosegate Design co-owner. Along with co-owner and interior designer Nancy Norris, Abby recommends considering "earthy type" of interior decorations during 2018, as well as items that create visual depth.

Opened in 1999, Rosegate Design offers an on-site design center and a turnkey

workroom for custom window treatments, bedding, upholstery and pillows.

C o-o

wn

er sN

Pas sion s, Interests, Treasures

1.

an

cy

No

r ris

a n d A b b y L ei b

2.

3.

4.

5.

THE ROSEGATE DESIGN TEAM CAN HELP YOU CHOOSE THE PERFECT DECOR 1. Lydia Art small canvases: Facebook.com/Lydia-Randolph-Fine-Art-and-Portraiture or Instagram.com/LydiaDuncanArt, $35 to $45 2. Steel City Candles from Birmingham: Facebook.com/SteelCityCandles, $39 3. Small botanicals and succulents: TheRosegate. com, $18 to $90 4. Three E Designs monogrammed trays or pottery: Facebook.com/ThreeEDesigns, $25 to $200 5. Hand-painted art by Busbin: Busbin.com, $448 34

Two Eighty Lifestyle | March 2018