NW GEORGIA
Complimentary NOV/DEC 2023 Volume 14 | Issue 6
Inspiring, Informing, Enriching
Winter Pet Care Wisdom and Holiday Adoption Tips
Christmas Décor Trends
Discover Your Perfect Match
Healthy Holiday Cooking Revamping Festive Favorites
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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 | VOLUME 14 | ISSUE 6
contents cover story
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For a winter escape with delightful dining options, sumptuous spa treatments, and more, look no further than the Mahekal Beach Resort in Mexico. Photo courtesy of Mahekal Beach Resort.
Keeping Cozy Together A guide to cold-weather pet care and bringing home a new forever friend during the holidays.
features 18 Harmonizing Holiday Magic
Blend Christmas home décor trends with your interior style and preferred seasonal look.
28 Unlocking Hope
Extended Family is a beacon of light for those with spouses and parents behind bars.
departments 4
10
12
14
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Love is a Wet Nose
Find comfort and joy in reading with these seasonal page-turners.
A look at the differences between taxable, tax-deferred, tax-preferred, and tax-free accounts and investments.
Getting to Know Steven Schumacher, Only in Cartersville Bartow president.
Pack up all your cares and woes for a retreat to the Mexican Riviera Maya.
Letter From the Publisher
6
Calendar for Living Happenings in our ’hood.
Dog Eared
Dollars & Sense
2 | NW GEORGIA LIVING NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023
Community
Wanderlust
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40
Lighten up traditional holiday dishes while avoiding an oven traffic jam.
Things that pester me as I get older.
Get Cookin’
Robert’s World
Residential Remodeling | General Contracting
• Kitchen, bath, and basement remodeling • Interior & exterior painting • Flooring
• Roofing • Deck replacement/ repairs
• Window & glass replacement • Concrete & masonry
ERICKSON construction Jerry D. Erickson Licensed General Contractor 678-755-2943 jerry@ericksonconstructionservices.com
“Working with Jerry was a great experience! He’s very knowledgeable about the materials needed and had lots of finish options to choose from. My clients were extremely happy with the work when it was finalized.” — James Robbins, Realtor / Full Basement Remodel
d LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER
Love is a Wet Nose
W
hat child or kid-at-heart doesn’t want a puppy for Christmas? It’s been two years since Jerry and I brought Bandit, our Australian Shepard, home. We adore that dog and fondly call him “Frito the Bandito,” “Boo Boo,” “Sir Trot-a-Lot,” and “Hot Breath, you’re wearin’ me out!” (an altered version of Rod Stewart’s Hot Legs) Recently, we thought about breeding him to keep one of his pups and have another dog to keep him company. That’s not really an option, but I heard about Husky puppies that need a home. I don’t dare see them because their wagging tails and puppy breath will intoxicate me into a trance, and I’ll let my emotions take over. A new puppy is the last thing I need. When I worked in broadcast sales, I was assigned a pet store, and I knew it would be a challenge because I’m a sucker for furry babies. Sure enough, the wheels began spinning after laying my eyes on the cutest white puffball of a puppy, an American Eskimo. My plan progressed when I took Winston, around age 5, to see him, and we played with the Eskie in the store cubicle. Then, I coerced Winston’s godfather, Bradley Robinson, into the scheme to “surprise” us all with this gift for his godson at our holiday get-together. It was a cold night when we met Bradley at his favorite watering hole, the former Holiday Inn Skytop, with other lively revelers celebrating. Bradley, known for giving extravagant gifts, had arranged to chauffer the puppy in a limo, and when he was Willy, the Christmas Pirate Puppy delivered and emerged into the crowd wearing a big, red bow, the entire place erupted in oohs and aahs. Everyone loved him except one person — that would be my late husband, Richard, who had no knowledge of the dog and was not fooled by this surprise. Let’s say it was a quiet ride home, and we weren’t singing Silent Night. But the good news was that the little guy was the cutest thing, and like the Grinch, Richard warmed up to him. Winston chose the name Willy because he said it looked like a wheelie when the pup jumped up but couldn’t pronounce it. We hadn’t had Willy a day when the cat scratched his eye, leading to a visit to the vet, and the poor guy had to wear an eye patch. He became the Christmas Pirate Puppy! Arrr! Over the years, I’ve adopted many rescue dogs, whether from an animal shelter or saved them from another day behind the glass in a pet store. If you’re considering a pet for yourself, do some research. When we rescued our Schipperke, I later found out they’re nicknamed Tasmanian Devils, and he was a rascal! Did we research that Aussies need lots of exercise? Of course not. So, be smart and pick a pet right for you and your family. And be sure to give them a name tag with your phone number so they can phone home. Here are some cheeky dog tag quotes: If you can read this, I will lick you; Call my mom. She’s lost without me; Every day is hump day, and I ESCAPED! Mwah-ha-ha! My favorite part of the day is about to begin. First, I walk the dog, share the day over dinner with Jerry, and then curl up on the sofa with my buddy, Bandit, wrapped up in our favorite blankie. This Christmas, Santa Paws may bring you a bundle of joy. It’s the best gift ever! 4 | NW GEORGIA LIVING NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023
NOV/DEC 2023 Volume 14 | Issue 6
Publisher and Founder Editor-in-Chief Laura Wood Erickson Editor Alexandra McCray editor@nwgeorgialiving.com Creative Director Andi Counts Designer Mackenzie Kuhn Copy Editor Elin Woods Contributing Writers Jill Becker Ande Frazier Alexandra McCray Kathy Patrick Susie Prince Daphne Rogers Robert Smyth Dana Lynn Thompson Elin Woods Web Master Tracy Slack & Associates Sales Laura Wood Erickson wood.laura@yahoo.com Contact us at: (706) 346-9858 wood.laura@yahoo.com NW Georgia Living P.O. Box 72546 Marietta, GA 30007 We welcome all contributions, but we assume no responsibility for unsolicited material. NW Georgia Living is published bimonthly by L. Wood LLC. Copyright © 2023. All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be copied, scanned, or reproduced in any manner without prior written consent from the publisher.
NOV
Connection Car Show
November 11, 8am-3pm Savoy Automobile Museum, Cartersville See the great sets of wheels your fellow car enthusiasts have and bring your own to show off. Just be sure to preregister your vehicle. savoymuseum.org
Indoor Arts and Crafts Fair
November 11, 10am-4pm Georgia Highlands College, Cartersville Campus Discover an array of handcrafted treasures, including culinary delights, at this fair featuring over 60 vendors. bartowlibrary.org/ community/friends_of_the_ library.php
RCAC’s Indoor Arts & Crafts Festival
Fall Festival
November 4, 9am-3pm Downtown Cedartown Watch the sanctioned Shriners parade at 10am, then browse offerings from art, craft, and food vendors throughout the rest of the day. You can also check out the live band playing from 11am-2pm. downtowncedartown.com
November 11, Noon-5pm Rockmart Cultural Arts Center Experience a day filled with art, live music, refreshments, kids’ activities, the chance to see Santa, and captivating demonstrations. facebook.com/rcac.ga
Veterans Day Ceremony
November 10, 9am Veterans Memorial Park, Adairsville Join the city in honoring the brave men and women who’ve fought for our country. adairsvillega.net 6 | NW GEORGIA LIVING NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023
DEC
d CALENDAR FOR LIVING
“Merry & Bright” Ladies’ Luncheon
November 14, Noon Harris Arts Center, Calhoun Savor a delectable lunch from Wall Street Catering along with live music and festive decorations. Afterward, explore the Festival of Trees and bid on holiday décor. harrisartscenter.com
Scouting the West
November 18, 9am-1pm Booth Western Art Museum, Cartersville Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, along with their families, can learn more about the history of the American West, dig into Chuck Wagon cuisine, watch skilled leather and metal workers in action, and more at this immersive event. Registration is required. boothmuseum.org/girl-scouts
The Rink at Ridge Ferry Park November 23 to January 15 Rome Enjoy ice skating under a covered rink and exploring a fun maze of holiday lights at Ridge Ferry Park. rfpra.com
Elf the Musical
December 1-3, 8-10 Legion Theatre, Cartersville Follow the heartwarming and hilarious journey of Buddy the Elf as he embarks on a quest to connect with his father and rekindle the spirit of Christmas. pumphouseplayers.com
Holiday Lights of Rome
December 1 Coosa Valley Fairgrounds Ooh and aah as you see stunning holiday light displays from the comfort of your car during this new drive-through seasonal experience. Concessions will also be up for grabs on-site. romegeorgia.org
Christmas Tour of Homes
December 10 | Cave Spring Step inside and explore five homes splendidly decorated for Christmas. cityofcavespring.com
Polar Pajama Party
Editorial credit: Sergei Bachlakov / Shutterstock.com
A Kenny and Dolly Christmas Tribute Special
December 1, 7pm Rome City Auditorium Take a trip back in time and hear old-school Christmas favorites by country legends Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton. romega.us/auditorium
Small Town Christmas in the Country
December 2-3 Downtown Cave Spring Shop till you drop (or cross every name off your list) at this annual arts and crafts festival and Christmas bazaar. cityofcavespring.com
Winter Art Market
December 2-3, 10am-4pm Rome Civic Center Pick up one-of-a-kind pieces and some of Georgia’s finest crafted goods – all perfect for gifting. romegeorgia.org
Adairsville Christmas on the Square December 4, 4-8pm Downtown Square See Santa and the city’s Christmas parade at this holiday gathering. adairsvillega.net
Christmas Party in the Plaza
December 7, 3-8pm 1 Friendship Plaza, Cartersville Enjoy a tree lighting, photos with Santa, and free children’s books from the Bartow County School System before watching the Exchange Club’s annual Cartersville Christmas parade. facebook.com/ downtowncartersville
Christmas Back Home
December 8-9, 22 Rome and Cartersville Join Scott Thompson and an all-star lineup of professional musicians for a Christmas concert featuring reggae, jazz, and more. Shows will take place in Rome earlier in the month, and then in Cartersville later in the month. christmasbackhome.com
Holiday Family Ornaments with Artist Amy Watts
December 9, 10am-1pm Booth Western Art Museum, Cartersville Create holiday ornaments and enjoy supplies, hot cocoa, treats, and museum admission included in your registration. boothmuseum.org/ kidsandfamilies
December 13, 6pm Historic DeSoto Theatre, Rome Kiddos and their families are invited to don cozy pajamas and watch The Polar Express. romegeorgia.org
Covered Bridge Carols and Tree Lighting with Woodland Middle School
December 14, 6:30pm Downtown Euharlee Listen to holiday music performed by the school band, then participate in a festive sing-along with the WMSE Chorus as the Euharlee Christmas tree is lit. facebook.com/euharleega
10th Annual Dana Patterson Merry Christmas Concert
December 16, 7:30pm The GEM Theatre, Calhoun This all-ages Christmas concert in honor of Dana Patterson and benefiting the Voluntary Action Center and GEM Theatre will also include storytelling and appearances by Mr. and Mrs. Claus. calhoungemtheatre.org
Rome Symphony Orchestra Presents: “A Very Brassy Christmas”
December 17, 5pm Rome City Auditorium Hear a blend of classic, contemporary, and pop holiday favorites performed by the Rome Symphony Orchestra’s brass ensemble. romega.us/auditorium
Christmas Parades Euharlee Christmas Parade
November 27, 6pm Downtown Euharlee euharlee.com
Rome Christmas Parade
November 28, 6:30pm Downtown Rome facebook.com/ romechristmasparade
Cave Spring Christmas Parade
December 2, 6pm Downtown Cave Spring romegeorgia.org
Adairsville Christmas Parade December 4, 6pm Downtown Adairsville adairsvillega.net
City of Summerville Christmas Parade
December 4, 7pm Downtown Summerville facebook.com/ cityofsummerville
Exchange Club of Cartersville Christmas Parade 2023
December 7, 6pm Downtown Cartersville cartersvilleexchange.com
Calhoun’s Christmas Parade of Lights
December 14, 7pm Downtown Calhoun
nwgeorgialiving.com | 7
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Southern Dining, Redefined
Rice House Restaurant at Barnsley Resort
Holiday Celebrations
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arden-to-table is a way of life at Barnsley Resort, the idyllic, award-winning 3,000acre destination steeped in history and outdoor adventure just a short drive from north Georgia landmarks in Cartersville and Rome. While the resort’s close connection with nature is infused throughout the property’s three culinary experiences, this philosophy is perfected into an art form in the Rice House restaurant. Upon arrival, diners are welcomed into the 19th century farmhouse — now converted into an elegant yet relaxed setting for dinner on weekends. After savoring a signature cocktail in the lounge while admiring a dramatic gallery wall of collected art, guests enter the dining room, where hem-stitched linen napkins, Vietri bud vases, and glass chargers set the mood — and table — for the experience to follow. In the distance, dramatic views of the landmark Manor House Ruins of Godfrey Barnsley’s former Woodlands estate complement the menus with fresh inspiration featured for the harvest season.
The culinary team at Rice House infuses classical culinary techniques with inspiration found from treasured Southern methods, local farmers, and the resort’s on-site gardens. This talented group of chefs thoughtfully designs menus that intentionally tell a story of Barnsley’s location and place. Before preparing the evening’s dishes, the culinary team cultivates seasonal ingredients in the gardens at the farm to incorporate them into the menus. Inspired by the autumn season, new dishes featured on the menu include a citrus-roasted beet tart accented with Lake Lanier Farm goat cheese and Loudermilk Hobby Farm honey. The Fish & Seafood Cataplana is a Portugueseinspired stew featuring a medley of ingredients from the sea along with preserved tomatoes from the Barnsley Farm and Sweet Grass Dairy’s signature Thomasville Tomme cheese. In addition to a memorable dinner experience, Barnsley Resort’s reputation as a culinary destination is on the rise thanks to featured events and gatherings within one of two private dining rooms.
Celebrate the festive season with family, friends, or even co-workers at the Rice House. Chefs have special menus planned for Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Eve. The Rice House is also an exceptional location to host an intimate office group for a special dinner in one of the private dining rooms or even reserve the entire restaurant exclusively for your party’s celebration. Afterward, guests may enjoy an evening stroll through the festive holiday lights and well-decorated resort village.
The Rice House is open for dinner on Friday and Saturday evenings. Reservations are requested by calling 770.773.7480, ext. 1. While staying overnight offers a complete resort experience, a room reservation is not required to dine in the Rice House. nwgeorgialiving.com | 9
d DOG EARED
Finding Comfort and Joy in Reading Curl up with these seasonal page-turners. BY ELIN WOODS
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recently moved to the northeastern corner of Pennsylvania, and after I did the practical things to settle into my space, the next thing I began to do was fill my calendar with all sorts of autumnal activities. Fall and winter are my favorite seasons as things slow down, in some ways, and the occasionally poor weather means more time for me to snuggle into a comfy chair with a big mug of tea and an even bigger book. In addition, I love being in the kitchen this time of year, making cakes full of spices, listening to folk covers of favorite songs (eventually holiday music), and just celebrating all things cozy. These books will center around my favorite time of the year and my favorite holidays. Got your cuppa ready?
Animal Life
By Auður Ava Ólafsdóttir
Dómhildur has a fascinating background as the granddaughter of midwives and undertakers. Like the women before her, she’s chosen the path of midwife and has just delivered her 1,922nd baby during an Icelandic winter days before Christmas. As a major storm approaches, and with her work seemingly done, she’s ready to find some peace and relaxation. Instead, she finds a box of family history left by her great aunt, which draws into the shared human stories of life and death, all our changes, while she waits for the seasons to shift and rebirth to happen in spring. This book isn’t very plot-heavy but is instead a reflection on family, appropriate as we spend more time with ours, and, if you’re like me, using the bad weather as an excuse to start that Ancestry membership up again.
10 | NW GEORGIA LIVING NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023
Christmas: A Biography By Judith Flanders
I couldn’t create a list of books without including at least one nonfiction read and, of course, have an author whom I lovingly refer to as “my girl Judith Flanders.” In this biography of Christmas, Flanders deep dives into how Christmas became what it is today, spending a lot of time with Charles Dickens and his role in shaping the mythology around the holiday. But he’s not the only notable mentioned in this trivia-filled tome, one full of new facts sure to start, or turn, a conversation at the dinner table. Following a timeline from the Roman Empire to the 20th century, Flanders takes us on a journey in her tinsel-covered time machine. There’ll be a little something for everyone in this book.
The Absolute Worst Christmas of All Time By Sean Dietrich
Don’t let the title fool you because this book of short stories and essays isn’t at all what you think it’ll be. This book was written in 2020; hence the title, but the pieces inside are uplifting and full of moments showing that good people still exist and what seems like the worst of times can be turned into the best of times. Those familiar with Dietrich’s work from social media via the handle “Sean of the South” will want to add this to
their collection as he’s always sharing silver linings amid our darkest hours. He’s a sort of Mr. Rogers for this new century.
The Golden Spoon
Christmas Bells
This one isn’t specific to the holidays, but it’s wrapped up in baking, something many of us will be participating in, and while I bake year-round, it really amps up during the winter. This new book has been described as Only Murders in the Building meets The Great British Bake Off. (Maybe with a touch of Downton Abbey for the manor house setting.) While everyone seems to play nice on baking shows, at least the British ones, it’s not too much of a stretch to imagine that there’s a lot more rivalry going on off-camera. This book lets that part of your imagination run wild. What begins as minor incidents, swapping salt for sugar at someone’s station, soon turns deadly. If you’re looking for a little break in the middle of holidays 24/7 but still want something cozy, this is the break you’re looking for.
By Jennifer Chiaverini
Probably mostly known for her series centered around quilts, Chiaverini is also known for her historical fiction, usually set around the Civil War. This book, however, isn’t set in the usual settings for this period and instead takes us into the Massachusetts home of poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow on the eve of the war. But it also fast-forwards to the life of a present-day teacher in Boston who’s down about music programs being cut at her school and not feeling the holiday spirit this year — until she decides to change the holiday program to the inspiring words of Longfellow’s poem Christmas Bells. Jumping back and forth through time to the struggles of life during the Civil War and our modern day, the tale is a reminder that beauty and hope can still abound despite circumstances. There’s always a reason to celebrate, especially at the end of the year, recalling all the good that’s happened, counting one’s blessings, and that peace on earth and goodwill to all men is always possible.
By Jessa Maxwell
Elin Woods is a librarian from the mountains of western Pennsylvania, now living in the mountains of northeastern Pennsylvania. When she’s not busy reading, she enjoys baking historical treats and exploring the East Coast. She balances her mostly nonfiction history reading with the occasional modern romance novel and plenty of cookbooks. nwgeorgialiving.com | 11
d DOLLARS & SENSE
Understanding the Impacts of Tax on Your Financial Plan BY ANDE FRAZIER
A look at the differences between taxable, tax-deferred, tax-preferred, and tax-free accounts and investments.
T
axes are an inevitable part of our financial lives. Whether you’re earning income, making investments, or planning for retirement; taxes play a major role in shaping your financial future. Therefore, it’s essential to understand how taxes impact your financial plan and how different types of accounts and investments can help optimize your tax situation. In this article, we’ll explore four key categories: taxable, tax-deferred, tax-preferred, and tax-free; plus, their implications for your financial strategy.
Taxable Investments
“Tax-preferred investments can be powerful tools for achieving specific financial goals while minimizing your tax liability.”
Taxable investments are those in which you earn income, and you’re required to pay taxes on that income in the year it’s received. These investments include savings accounts, certificates of deposit (CDs), stocks, bonds, and mutual funds held in non-tax-advantaged brokerage accounts. The main feature of taxable investments is that they don’t offer any tax benefits, and your earnings are subject to federal and state income taxes. The impact of taxes on taxable investments can be substantial. For example, if you earn interest income from a savings account or receive dividends from stocks, you’ll have to report and pay taxes on that income each year. Additionally, when you sell an investment that has appreciated in value, you may be subject to capital gains taxes on the profit. To minimize the tax impact on your taxable investments, consider strategies like tax-loss harvesting, where you sell investments that have experienced losses to offset gains and reduce your tax liability. Another approach is to hold investments for the long term, as
12 | NW GEORGIA LIVING NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023
long-term capital gains are often taxed at a lower rate than short-term gains.
Tax-Deferred Investments Tax-deferred investments are designed to allow your investments to grow without incurring immediate taxes on the earnings. These investments are commonly found in retirement accounts such as traditional IRAs, 401(k)s, and similar plans. Contributions to these accounts are often tax-deductible, meaning you can reduce your taxable income in the year you make contributions. Furthermore, the earnings on your investments within these accounts grow tax-deferred until you withdraw the funds, typically during retirement. The advantage of tax-deferred investments is the ability to delay paying taxes until a later date when you might be in a lower tax bracket, which may or may not be the case. Additionally, if your employer offers a 401(k) plan with a matching contribution, it’s like getting free money, as you can reduce your taxable income while saving for retirement. However, there are strict rules and penalties for early withdrawals from tax-deferred accounts. If you withdraw funds before age 59½, you may incur a 10% early withdrawal penalty in addition to income taxes. So, it’s crucial to plan your withdrawals carefully to avoid unnecessary taxes and penalties. While qualified retirement plans offer tax advantages, they also come with cons. Withdrawals in retirement are taxed as regular income rather than a typically more favored capital gains rate. In addition, once you reach age 72 (73 if you turn 72 in or after 2023), you must take out required minimum distributions
of those retirement accounts. The purpose of required minimum distributions is to ensure individuals don’t defer taxes on these accounts indefinitely and to encourage them to use their retirement savings during their retirement years.
Tax-Preferred Investments Tax-preferred investments are those that provide certain tax advantages or incentives to encourage specific behaviors or investments. These investments are often used to support specific social or economic objectives. Common examples of tax-preferred investments include: • Municipal Bonds: Interest earned on municipal bonds is typically exempt from federal income taxes and, in some cases, state income taxes. • Health Savings Accounts (HSAs): Contributions to HSAs are tax-deductible, and withdrawals for qualified medical expenses are tax-free. • 529 College Savings Plans: These plans offer tax-free growth when funds are used for qualified educational expenses. Some states also offer tax deductions or credits for contributions. • Qualified Dividend Income: Certain dividends from qualifying stocks can be taxed at a lower rate than ordinary income, providing an incentive for long-term investing. • Cash Value of Life Insurance: Cash value in life insurance policies can grow tax-preferred as it accumulates without immediate taxation, offering potential tax benefits and estate planning advantages. Tax-preferred investments can be powerful tools for achieving specific financial goals while minimizing your
tax liability. Nonetheless, it’s crucial to understand the rules and limitations associated with these investments to ensure you fully benefit from their tax advantages.
Tax-Free Investments Tax-free investments are the holy grail of tax efficiency. These investments allow you to earn income and realized gains (the profit on a sold investment) without paying any taxes, ever. The most wellknown example of a tax-free investment is the Roth IRA. Contributions to a Roth IRA are made with after-tax dollars, meaning you don’t get a tax deduction when you contribute. The earnings on your investments within a Roth IRA grow tax-free, though, and qualified withdrawals are also tax-free. In many cases, one thing to consider is the lost opportunity costs associated with paying taxes since the money used for taxes could have been invested or saved to create returns or financial growth. The lost opportunity cost represents the foregone potential for wealth accumulation and
financial security, impacting long-term financial goals and prosperity. If you’re working with a professional, there may be strategies you can employ to help recapture some of these lost opportunity costs. Understanding the differences between taxable, tax-deferred, tax-preferred, and tax-free investments is crucial for creating a tax-efficient financial plan. Your financial goals, risk tolerance, and current financial situation will influence which types of investments and accounts are most appropriate for you. Consulting with a financial advisor or tax professional can help you navigate the complexities of the tax code and make informed decisions that align with your long-term financial goals. Ande Frazier, CFP®, CLU, ChFC, RICP, BFA™, ChSNC, CDFA®, is an expert in behavioral finance and the author of Fin(anci)ally Free: 11 Conversations To Have With Yourself About Life, Money, and Worth. In addition to being a recognized thought leader, author, and speaker, she also serves as a partner at Peachtree Planning Corporation. To learn more, visit andefrazier.com. nwgeorgialiving.com | 13
d COMMUNITY
Getting to Know … Steven Schumacher
Only in Cartersville Bartow President BY ALEXANDRA McCRAY
B
artow County is booming, and there’s plenty to look forward to next year. 2024 will bring a new luxury RV campsite in Cartersville called Winding Waters, a possible glamping site at Pine Acres Retreat, and the area’s first rooftop bar, nestled in the Westin Element opening on the LakePoint Sports campus. Cartersville is also gearing up to host the Georgia Association of Convention & Visitors Bureaus’ annual conference in late January. Attracting large groups has been a significant goal for Steven Schumacher since taking over as president of the Cartersville-Bartow County Convention & Visitors Bureau, now Delta since 2013 and – knock on wood – I’ve never lost a piece of luggage. referred to as Only in Cartersville Bartow, about a year ago. The Connecticut native and his team have also shaken things The song that’s been stuck in my head lately is … The Greatest up by renaming the organization, boosting its social media Show from The Greatest Showman. We’ve been watching it in presence, and creating a new website launching in January our house a ton lately. that’ll make trip planning easier for visitors One of my guilty pleasures is … being a big from near and far. And while attracting time Drum Corps International fan aka “I’ve always been people from outside the county is always major band geek. a priority, regional “daycationers” are still a fan of Star Wars, When I was a kid, I wanted to grow up to be … highly valued. a high school history teacher. A daycationer himself of sorts, and once I started If I came with a disclaimer, it would say … be Schumacher (who’s called Georgia home prepared to hear a very long story. for over a decade), currently resides with building Disney One of the coolest apps I have on my phone his wife and two children just a stone’s is … Beatstar. Think Guitar Hero on princess Legos throw away in Cherokee County, but he’s your phone. dedicated to all things Cartersville and with my 5-year-old To me, there’s nothing better than … grilling Bartow, nonetheless. If you stop by his out on a Friday night on my Traeger with a office at the Clarence Brown Conference daughter, Quinn, glass of aged rye whiskey on the rocks. Center, you’ll get insight into his latest hobby — constructing Star Wars Lego sets. If I could go to any sports game in history, earlier this year, I “I’ve always been a fan of Star Wars, and it would be … Super Bowl LI. Don’t hate decided I wanted one me Falcons fans. Remember, I’m from once I started building Disney princess Legos with my 5-year-old daughter, Quinn, England! for myself. One has New earlier this year, I decided I wanted one Something great to do in Cartersville this for myself. One has turned into six and time of year is … see Cartersville’s annual turned into six counting,” he jokes. Christmas parade on December 7th. You A travel hack everyone should know is … and counting.” don’t want to miss that spectacle of lights check your bags! The fight for overhead and joy! If you haven’t been to the Rose bins is just so crazy to me, and it’s not Lawn Museum, the colder months are the perfect time to see worth standing at the gate for 45 minutes to be the first to Jane and hear about the history of Sam Jones. board. I’ve checked my bags on every flight I’ve taken with Only in Cartersville Bartow, visitcartersvillega.org 14 | NW GEORGIA LIVING NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023
Choose Heatherwood, where Living is easy! Age 62 and Older Heatherwood is a beautifully designed three level, sixty-eight unit one bedroom complex with units available for the mobility impaired. Heatherwood includes the following amenities: Automatic Entry Door with Security System Rent based on 30% of Adjusted Monthly Income All Appliances Included Private Mailbox Inside Building All Utilities Included
Laundry Facilities Individually Controlled Heat and Air Conditioning Bulk Rate Cable Fee In-House Maintenance Walk-In Closets & Kitchen Pantry Bus Route
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Heatherwood has a sunroom with deck and patio suitable for family parties and other activities. There are spacious landscaped grounds with a beautiful gazebo. nwgeorgialiving.com | 15
d WANDERLUST
Pacified in Playa del Carmen Pack up all your cares and woes for a retreat to the Mexican Riviera Maya. BY JILL BECKER
T
here are some vacations where the goal is to go, go, go, so you can see and do as much as possible in your chosen destination. But then there are the times when you need a vacation that’s simply about escaping the day-to-day stresses of life and focusing on nothing but relaxing and recharging. For me, that involved a getaway to Playa del Carmen, a Mexican coastal town on the Riviera Maya, complemented by a stay at the luxurious Mahekal Beach Resort. The scene at the Cancun airport once I made it through customs was a bit chaotic (you have to dodge a barrage of uniformed, seemingly legitimate greeters asking you where you’re going), but I’d prearranged for transportation to the resort, so I was soon ensconced in an air-conditioned van, complete with Wi-Fi, for the 45-minute trip to Mahekal. Upon entering the open-air lobby, I was warmly greeted with water and a cold towel. For my accommodation, I’d chosen one of the oceanfront plunge pool rooms, located just steps from the crashing waves of the Caribbean. The stand-alone, thatched-roof, palapa-style bungalow had its own patio, plunge pool, and two cozy hammocks. I usually like to
unpack first thing, but I immediately plopped in that hammock, closed my eyes, and savored the blissful peace and quiet as the gentle breeze brushed my face. I might have even dozed off for a few minutes; it’s hard to say. After some intense relaxation, I made my way over to the Artisan Palapa, where guests can hand-paint a piece of pottery of their choosing. I knew it was best to do this activity early in my stay, because once my piece was painted, they needed a day to glaze it. I can’t say my creation was an artistic masterpiece (which might have had to do with the cocktails I ordered from the bar across from the hut), but it still made for a memorable souvenir of my visit. I capped off the first night with dinner at Fuego, an alfresco restaurant on the other side of the property from my bungalow. A resident cat wandered among the tables as I enjoyed a platter
16 | NW GEORGIA LIVING NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023
of surf and turf prepared in a Tulumstyle wood-burning oven. Two meal plan options are available to guests at Mahekal: a half-board one that includes breakfast and either lunch or dinner each day or an all-inclusive one that includes all your meals. My daily routine was to pig out at the breakfast buffet at Las Olas, located poolside, being sure to grab a glass of the jugo verde, a delicious green juice blend of fruits and vegetables, in lieu of coffee. Then, I’d pick up a light snack for lunch and enjoy an early dinner at either Fuego or one of the eateries along 5th Avenue, the main tourist strip that’s just a two-minute walk from the resort. One
Photos Courtesy of Mahekal Beach Resort
night, I felt indulgent and had the resort arrange for a private, multicourse dinner right on the beach, which came complete
with a personal waiter and either Champagne or prosecco. Most evenings, I’d make a postprandial trip to the Agave Bar for a refreshing cocktail and game of dominoes, billiards, or pingpong. Mahekal also has a tremendous spa, where you can choose from a host of dreamy Mayan-inspired treatments, from massages to manicures. There’s even a sunburn treatment in case you forget to slather on the sunscreen while lounging on the beach or by one of the resort’s four pools. I want to say I checked out the on-site fitness room or took one of the resort’s free bikes out for a spin, but that just didn’t happen. I did, however, have the resort arrange for an incredible guided snorkeling trip to one of the more than 600 underground cenotes in the area. Snorkeling in the calm, clear sinkholes at a site like Chikin Ha, where I went, doesn’t afford seeing some of the more colorful, exotic fish you’d find in a place like Hawaii or Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, but there was still something utterly magical about swimming among the ancient stalagmites and stalactites as sunbeams rained down from the sky and cut through the water. The Mayans believe that cenotes have spiritual and healing properties, and in fact, after my trip to Chikin Ha, the cold I’d had for the last two days was instantly gone. There were, of course, plenty of
other things I could have opted to do outside of the resort. There’s some good shopping along the aforementioned pedestrian-only 5th Avenue, and typically some form of nightly entertainment there as well. Other options include birdwatching, ATV tours, and zipline rides through the jungle. In Akumal Bay, you can go swimming with sea turtles or diving with bull sharks. One of the more popular activities is a trip to one of the area’s archaeological sites. Tulum, located about 100 miles south of the city along the shores of the Caribbean, contains ruins thought to date back as far as 1200 AD. Nearby Cobá is home to Nohoch Mul, a 137-foot-tall Mayan pyramid you can climb via the 120 stone steps to the top. For me, though, the priority was to just kick back and not have to worry about where to eat, what to do, or how to get there. And it was just what the doctor ordered.
For More Information Mahekal Beach Resort mahekalbeachresort.com Playa del Carmen playadelcarmen.com Jill Becker’s travel writing has appeared in dozens of magazines and websites, including more than 25 stories for CNN.com. nwgeorgialiving.com | 17
Harmonizing Magic
Holiday
Blend Christmas home décor trends with your interior style and preferred seasonal look. BY SUSIE PRINCE AND ALEXANDRA McCRAY
O
ne of the greatest joys this time of year is creating your own version of Christmas magic with holiday décor. While Christmas décor trends have held steady for a while, the real fun this year can be found in discovering creative ways to embrace them and breathe fresh life into your tried-and-true decorations. In this article, we’ll explore the latest trends and innovative ways to incorporate them seamlessly into your living spaces based on your décor preferences for your home and the holidays. Your festive decorations can simultaneously reflect your personal style and delightfully showcase what’s in vogue this Christmas season. If you like coziness, rustic simplicity, and a balanced combination of minimalism and warmth… Embrace the Scandi holiday décor trend. This style favors neutral tones like whites, grays, and blacks, often punctuated with the warmth of wood finishes. It also thrives on the presence of natural elements like pine, evergreens, logs, juniper, and eucalyptus, which infuse a touch of the outdoors. Soft textiles like snug blankets, knitted throws, and furry accents are essential to creating a comforting ambiance.
Ways to Incorporate Scandinavian Christmas Décor in Your Home: 1 Select natural cuttings, which you sometimes get for free from Christmas tree lots. Group together some vintage finds like not-so-perfectlypolished silver vases, glass, and natural wood sculptural finds. Fill vases with tree cuttings. 2 Use neutral colors, gingham, and linen for your tree skirt and stockings. 3 Twinkly soft-white lights are a must, no colored lights for this look. 4 Keep it simple and understated. Natural elements are key. 5 For maximum impact, wrap presents in neutral-colored holiday wrapping and craft paper. Tie with simple ribbons and twine. You can even use wire ribbon that can be reused year after year. Maybe it’s a burlap-style ribbon with a little glitter to make it feel special or a buffalo check ribbon. Once 18 | NW GEORGIA LIVING NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023
it’s tied on, make your bows simple and unfussy. If you have an affinity for the elegance and opulence of classic Christmas décor… You’re in for a treat this holiday season. The classic Christmas style is still popular and exudes a sense of regality and luxury, embracing rich color palettes dominated by golds and reds that evoke warmth and grandeur. Traditional elements such as regal emblems like lions, elephants, nutcrackers, and deer take center stage, adding a sense of majesty.
Ways to Incorporate More Classic Christmas in Your Holiday Décor: 1 Whether your home is mostly neutral or colorful, classic can work well for you. Reach for a natural color green tree (whether from a lot or an artificial tree). Wrap the tree with garland or wired ribbon in undulating swags. Use red or gold for the garland. Red is ideal for a strong contrast to the green of the tree. 2 Keep luxe in mind and look for gold and sparkly elements. You can create centerpieces and mantel décor with florals like evergreen cuttings or magnolia cuttings and add in goldpainted pinecones and decorative picks painted sparkly gold. 3 Keep the main palette red and gold. For the tree skirt and stockings, focus on velvets and more sumptuous materials for the rich, warm feeling of a classic luxe Christmas. 4 If you have a collection of nutcrackers, this is the holiday décor trend for you! Group them on a piano, mantel, or in bookcases. For additional impact, you can nestle them into faux snow or evergreen garland. 5 Poinsettias are the more traditional holiday floral. They’re beautiful in groupings but take them out of the paper they often come in, and instead, place them in plant stands with the classic Christmas color scheme. But remember, poinsettias are poisonous to pets, so use caution and keep them out of reach of furry friends.
If your heart skips a beat at the sight of a vibrant kaleidoscope of colors and you’re drawn to the nostalgia of days gone by… Then the time capsule Christmas décor trend is perfect for you. This captivating style is all about embracing the vibrant, rainbow-hued palette of yesteryears, bringing back the bright, shiny, and neon shades that once adorned homes
with zeal during the holidays. It marries antique and vintage pieces of Christmas past with a contemporary twist.
Ways to Incorporate Time Capsule Style in Your Holiday Décor: 1 There are many ways to add the vintage look to your decorations. First, reach for blownglass ornaments. Whether you have a collection of Christopher Radko ornaments, or you’re starting from scratch, it
nwgeorgialiving.com | 19
can be achieved. Some great pieces can be found at antique markets for incredible prices. 2 Particularly look for a brightly colored blown-glass tree topper. This will be a showstopper and make a big statement. 3 For this look, more is more! When you think the tree is full, add more ornaments. Don’t be afraid to get a lot of brightly colored and sparkly filler ornaments. 4 On the mantel, your bottle brush trees from years past are perfect for this style. Group them together surrounded by faux snow at the base and some mini-brightly colored ornaments scattered around the bottom. 5 Colored lights and warm white lights are key here. A great way to layer them is to dress the tree in many warm white lights first, then get large bulb-colored lights and add those on top — even outdoors! 6 You can use red and green, gold and silver, but don’t forget to add pink, orange, chartreuse, turquoise, and more – the more color, the better.
If you love the serene beauty of a winter wonderland and prefer your Christmas décor to be light, bright, and airy… The snow-flocked trend is tailor-made for your holiday aesthetic. This enchanting style goes beyond merely embracing a snow-flocked tree and extends to an overall color scheme that’s as soft as freshly fallen snow. Its ethereal mixture of light and bright tones exudes tranquility and purity.
Ways to Incorporate the Snow-Flocked Style in Your Holiday Décor: 1 If you’re in need of a new tree, a snow-flocked one may be for you. Use natural elements, like the Scandi style, but with more polish. Fill your tree with soft metallic and natural ornaments. 2 Use faux floral picks with metallic details, soft pampas grasses, and mercury glass-like ornaments for the tree. 3 Metallic and glass pinecones, the bigger the better, can be used on the tree and as centerpieces. 4 Keep things clean and neutral in the color palette: whites, golds, silver, browns, bronze, etc. Mix your whites, using everything from bright white, cream, bone, and taupe together. 5 Layer textures using natural elements, glass, and ceramic to bring the polished look together. Whether you’re a fan of comfy Scandinavian minimalism, the regal allure of classic Christmas décor, the vibrancy of the time capsule trend, or the beautiful look of snow-flocked, remember that your holiday décor is an extension of your personality and tastes. Choose the trend that resonates with you and let it seamlessly intertwine with the unique aesthetic of your home.
Susie Prince owns Susie Mae Design, a residential interior design firm based in Atlanta, Georgia. Susie loves to blend old and new, color, pattern, texture, and shine to create spaces that are dynamic, timeless, and unique. She lives in Atlanta with her husband, Victor, and their dogs, Scout and Brownie. 20 | NW GEORGIA LIVING NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023
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Add a little history to your holidays this year! Visit the Bartow History Museum this November and December to glimpse at holiday traditions from years gone by. Enjoy a self-guided tour through our permanent exhibits featuring decorations and seasonal touches from the past.
Don’t forget to pick up your 2023 collectible ornament celebrating the Cartersville Coca-Cola Bottling Plant!
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Unlocking Hope Extended Family is a beacon of light for those with spouses and parents behind bars.
L
aure Clemons and her daughters were only a couple miles from home when they were stopped by a sheriff diverting traffic around a terrible accident. Laure’s worst fears were realized when she recognized the back of her husband’s car among the wreckage. Her husband, Jerry, a recovering alcoholic who’d been sober for nine years, had broken his sobriety — a decision that’d change the course of his life and the lives of his wife and daughters forever. While driving under the influence, Jerry struck another vehicle, killing one of its passengers, injuring another, and causing himself life-threatening injuries. He was sentenced to serve six years in prison, leaving Laure and their children behind to begin a new life parallel to his but separated by high walls and locked doors. The number of families affected by incarceration is staggering. At the end of 2021, there were 1,204,300 incarcerated individuals in the U.S. or 350 prisoners per 100,000 U.S. residents. The latest Bureau of Justice Statistics survey, from 2016, indicates that 20% of inmates are married. Approximately six million children have lost a parent to incarceration during their lives, and, according to a Pew
“I longed for someone to look me in the eyes and say, ‘Laure, you can do this! I’ll show you the way.’” – Laure Clemons 28 | NW GEORGIA LIVING NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023
BY DAPHNE ROGERS
Charitable Trusts report, 1 in 28 U.S. children currently has a parent behind bars. The separation of incarceration, particularly of a parent, causes trauma in children similar to a divorce or death in the family. Spouses at home struggle to manage housing, finances, and childcare as single parents while balancing a relationship with their incarcerated spouse to provide emotional support and simultaneously nurturing their children and themselves. Every community in our nation is affected, and yet there remains a “courtesy stigma” of the family members, a “guilt by association” that follows each one, even the children.
Healing and Helping Others As Laure and her daughters struggled with the challenges of living with Jerry’s incarceration, Laure looked for local resources to help them adjust to this new normal — from navigating the prison system to coping with the mental and physical daily stresses created by her husband’s absence. Unable to find what she needed for herself or her daughters, Laure created Extended Family, a community-based nonprofit organization, to meet the needs of families like hers so no one else would have to face the hardship of having an incarcerated loved one alone. Laure developed a list of resources, including information about agencies and their services, and helpful hints to aid her family and to share with other family members of prisoners. Then, rather than shut down emotionally or create an imaginary life based on denial, she began to tell her story. Naturally, the responses she received were mixed. Some strangers welcomed her with open arms, offering her comfort and compassion during her darkest hours, while some friends learned of her family’s struggles and distanced themselves from her, and heartbreakingly, from her children. Nevertheless,
telling her story was cathartic for Laure and she met others who also had a loved one incarcerated. She began to build a support group, discovering that helping others also helped her not only to survive but heal. As difficult as Jerry’s incarceration was on Laure, the effect on her children was far more devastating for her. Everything they did was tainted by the knowledge that their dad was not there to see it. Laure began to develop a series of lessons she used to help her daughters learn to cope with their feelings and make good choices. In 2007, after seeing how these lessons helped her children, Laure created the Extended Family for Kids (EFK) curriculum, a nine-lesson, evidence-based program that includes the messages, “It’s not your fault!” and, “You don’t have to do their time!” Laure began leading EFK groups at Summerville Middle School in Georgia in 2007. What started in one school with a handful of students quickly expanded into four Alabama counties. Since then, Laure has led more than 1,000 students through EFK and has added program leaders to the staff as the demand for EFK increases in schools and juvenile diversion programs. To meet the growing need, Laure offers EFK program leader training in communities around the country. During the pandemic, she adapted the lessons to be led virtually, allowing EFK to continue and grow. This summer, Laure conducted the first virtual EFK series for children across the nation. Spouses and adult family members look to Extended Family for one-on-one peer support from others who share their experiences and can reach Laure and other staff by phone, email, or on social media for information about the prison system, visitation, phone calls, and how to be supportive of an incarcerated loved one while still supporting themselves. Families can also access resources, tips, and details about Extended Family programs through the organization’s website as well.
Laure and Jerry have led Going Home Workshops inside prisons for more than 1,700 inmates since 2010.
Laure and Jerry Clemons Photo by Patti Ford.
Succeeding After Incarceration Once Jerry completed his sentence, readjustment to life after prison proved difficult. Six years is a long time to be away in a world that changes quickly. Imagine entering prison from a world of payphones and being released years later into a world of cellphones! After overcoming challenges faced during Jerry’s first year of reentry, he and Laure created the “Going Home Workshop,” a two-hour, interactive class designed to help reentering inmates adjust to life on the outside by focusing on the new family dynamics when an incarcerated individual returns home. They’ve led Going Home Workshops inside prisons for more than 1,700 inmates since 2010. Today, following many years as a volunteer, Jerry serves on the
Extended Family staff as the reentry coordinator. In addition to his success after incarceration with his work at Extended Family, he’s also 22 years sober. With Jerry’s direction, Extended Family is developing a new reentry program called Extended Success for Life (ESL), which will support newly released citizens with the goal of reducing the rate of recidivism, an important step in helping families heal after incarceration. The 20-week ESL program will guide returning citizens in identifying and reaching their goals using a plan customized to their needs and with training and support for success. ESL will begin in 2024 with free programs for men in three counties in Alabama and provide information for physical, mental, emotional, and financial support. As Extended Family’s offerings grow, Laure continues to remember her greatest need when her husband was incarcerated. “There was one thing I longed for that day my husband went to prison,” she says. “I longed for someone to look me in the eyes and say, ‘Laure, you can do this! I’ll show you the way.’” By creating Extended Family, she now has the opportunity to tell others what she longed to hear, whether someone in her own community or across the country, “You can do this! We at Extended Family will show you the way.” To bring Extended Family for Kids into your community by becoming a program leader, contact laure@extendedfamilyhelp.org or call 256-927-7997. If you’re interested in getting a child involved in a local Extended Family for Kids program, visit the Extended Family website and fill out a form expressing interest. Extended Family, extendedfamilyhelp.org Daphne Rogers joined Extended Family as a program leader in February 2023 and added the title of Communications Director in June. Daphne is a 1991 graduate of Jacksonville State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications. She and her husband, John, have raised four biological and six adopted children. nwgeorgialiving.com | 29
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Keeping Cozy Together A guide to cold-weather pet care and finding a new forever friend during the holidays. BY DANA LYNN THOMPSON
A
s Northwest Georgians, we relish our temperate fourseason climate, enjoying outdoor activities with our pets all year round. But this area is also home to winter weather that can include extreme conditions like cold temperatures, freezing rain, and the occasional snowfall.
When winter weather hits, follow these tips to keep your pet happy and healthy: If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for your pets. You probably already know this, but a good rule of thumb is that dogs with short hair, cats, and elderly or very young pets should be kept indoors when the temperature falls below 40 F and below 20 F for all other pets. Taking your dog out for a walk or play session during warmer times of the day will keep you both from getting cabin fever. When you’re ready to come in, they probably are too. A dog coat or sweater can help keep them toasty as well. Shelter is a must. If you have to keep your dog outside for a period, provide a dry, draft-free shelter. It should be large enough for your pet to sit and lie down comfortably but small enough to hold their body heat. The floor should be off the ground and covered with cedar shavings or straw. Turn the shelter away from the wind and cover the door with waterproof burlap or heavy plastic. Provide extra food and water. Pets that spend time outdoors in the winter use a lot of energy to stay warm. Provide a little extra food, and regularly check your pet’s water dish to ensure the water is fresh and not frozen. Use plastic food and water bowls instead of metal to prevent your pet’s tongue from freezing to the bowl. 32 | NW GEORGIA LIVING NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023
Think about your senior. Ask your veterinarian if winter weather can irritate any of your elderly dog’s medical conditions. Arthritis is a prime example and can be helped with a natural joint supplement (OK’d by your vet) and regular exercise followed by rest in a warm, cozy place. Remember that grooming needs are different during dry winter days. Curtail shaving your dog’s hair in the winter as a longer coat provides more warmth. If you do bathe your pet, use an oatmeal shampoo and apply some coconut oil to your dog’s coat to help avoid dry, itchy skin. Coconut oil is also great for moisturizing dry or cracked paws, ears, and tails. Help them stay warm inside. Make sure your pet’s bed is away from drafts. If they usually sleep on an uncarpeted floor, add a raised bed or a few blankets to their go-to spot. For those with aging joints, a heated pet bed can relieve stiffness. Be sure to keep pets a safe distance away from space heaters and fireplaces, though. Stay off the ice. Don’t let your pet venture onto frozen bodies of water. The ice may be too thin to support their weight, and water rescues are difficult and dangerous for both of you. Keep your pet safe. Check your garage and driveway for antifreeze. Antifreeze tastes sweet to your pet, and most brands are poisonous. Contact your vet immediately if you suspect your pet has consumed antifreeze. Common ice-melting products like calcium chloride and sodium chloride can irritate your furry friend’s paws and may be toxic if licked. Check your car before starting. Outdoor, stray, and feral cats sometimes sleep under car hoods to stay warm.
life, avoids pet stores and puppy mills, and makes more room in the shelter for animals in need. If you’ve decided on a specific breed, thorough research will help you ensure that the breed fits your lifestyle and family situation (other pets, kids, home and backyard size, grooming needs, exercise levels, etc.), and there are rescues specific to most breeds. Purebred dogs can often be found in local shelters as well. Instead of bringing home an animal for the holidays, consider assembling and gift wrapping an “adoption kit.” Fill a box with toys, a bed, a leash, a collar, food, bowls, treats, and a gift certificate for adoption fees at your local shelter. Then, make an event of visiting the shelter to find your next best friend! Local rescue organizations like Public Animal Welfare Services (P.A.W.S.), Animal Rescue Foundation Rome Floyd Inc. (ARF), and Floyd Felines all have pets available for adoption.
Give the Gift of Life
To avoid killing the cat or taking your neighbor’s cat on an unwanted road trip, bang loudly on your hood before starting your car. Don’t lock pets in the car. Never leave a pet locked inside a car during frigid weather. Cars can act like refrigerators, holding in cold air and putting your pet at risk.
Give a Pet a Home for the Holiday The holidays are a popular time for welcoming a new furry friend into your home. Adopting a pet is a decision that needs to be right for your family and the pet. Here are some reasons to adopt during the holiday season: • Many kids (and even adults) dream of getting a pet for the holidays.
• Time off from work and school means your family will be at home to socialize with and train a new pet. This helps ease the transition from shelter to home life. On the other hand, the holidays are a busy time of the year, so you must decide if adopting after the new year is a better choice. • Animals given as gifts may be more likely to be returned. Think about the long-term commitment introducing a new pet will mean to your family. • Surprising a family member with a pet they’ve never met means their personalities might not match. • Some people travel often during the holidays and won’t have enough time to spend with a new pet. • The holidays are chaotic and may be stressful for a pet getting used to a new home.
Adopt, Don’t Shop There’s no greater gift for homeless animals than to be adopted by a loving family. As they do year-round, our local animal shelters have hundreds of wonderful dogs and cats waiting for their forever homes. Adopting a pet saves a
Did you know that 79% of Americans say they’d rather have a charitable gift given in their name than receive a gift they won’t use? As an alternative to adopting a pet for the holidays, consider donating funds or supplies to one of our excellent local animal shelters. Visit the websites below to see lists of needed items or donate online. Many have Amazon wish lists for things that can be shipped directly to the shelter. Animal Rescue Foundation Rome Floyd Inc. (ARF) | arfromefloyd.com Floyd Felines | floydfelines.org Public Animal Welfare Services (P.A.W.S.) floydcountyga.gov/animal-control Red Clay Ranch Equine Rescue and Sanctuary, Inc. | redclayrescue.org Rome-Floyd Humane Society romefloydhumanesociety.org Rome for the Rescues romefortherescues.org Dana Lynn Thompson is a writer, dog mom, and founder of Surviving Everyday Stress, a blog for people suffering with IBS and anxiety. She hopes to make a difference in the lives of people struggling with everyday stress. Dana lives on a small farm with her rock star husband, three rescue dogs, and two horses. She can be reached at DanaLynnThompson.com. nwgeorgialiving.com | 33
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d GET COOKIN’
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Lighten up traditional favorites while avoiding an oven traffic jam.
BY K
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The meals pictured are variations of the recipes featured in this article. 36 | NW GEORGIA LIVING NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023
Whether you’re organizing a holiday dinner menu from scratch or looking to add a health-conscious option to your preplanned meal, these three recipes offer nutritious, lower-calorie twists on classic dishes.
Skillet Mushroom Cornbread Stuffing Serves 8 | Prepare this ahead of time and bake it while the turkey rests. ¼ cup olive oil, plus more 12 ounces mixed mushrooms (button, shiitake, or oyster), torn into 1- to 2-inch pieces 2 medium red onions, sliced into 1-inch wedges 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced 2 tablespoons chopped rosemary, sage, and/or thyme 1 tablespoon honey 6 ounces Tuscan kale, center ribs and stems removed, leaves torn 2 teaspoons Diamond Crystal or 1 teaspoon Morton kosher salt, plus more for seasoning 2 cups yellow cornmeal (not polenta) 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 large egg, lightly beaten 2 cups low-fat buttermilk ½ cup unsalted butter, melted, plus 1 tablespoon for greasing
Return skillet to medium-high heat. Add onions and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally and adding oil if pan looks dry. Add garlic and cook for 2 minutes, stirring until soft but not browned. Add herbs and drizzle with honey, then add kale and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until kale is wilted.
Preheat oven to 450 F. Heat oil in large cast-iron skillet over medium high. Add mushrooms and cook undisturbed for 3-5 minutes until golden brown. Continue to cook and toss occasionally for 4-6 minutes longer until deeply browned. Transfer mushrooms to a medium bowl, leaving leftover oil in skillet.
Carefully remove preheated skillet from oven, adding remaining 1 tablespoon butter, swirling skillet to distribute. Scrape cornbread batter into skillet. Top with remaining mushroom mixture. Bake until golden brown, 25-30 minutes. Serve in skillet or break into pieces and transfer to a platter.
Add onion mixture to bowl with mushrooms. Season with salt and stir. Wipe skillet and place in oven to preheat. In a large bowl combine cornmeal, baking soda, and measured salt. In a medium bowl, whisk egg, buttermilk, and butter. Add egg mixture to dry ingredients and stir to combine. Fold in three-quarters of mushroom mixture.
Boneless Turkey Breast with Cranberry Chutney Serves 6 | You should have enough for leftovers, too! Two 2-pound boneless, skin-on turkey breast halves, trimmed and thawed, netting removed 2 tablespoons vegetable oil ¾ teaspoon dried marjoram 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper 1 shallot, minced 4 teaspoons grated fresh ginger 1 teaspoon yellow mustard seeds 12 ounces (3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries 1 cup packed brown sugar ¾ cup water 1 tablespoon grated orange zest 2 tablespoons cider vinegar
Adjust oven rack to middle position, then heat oven to 325 F. Pat turkey dry with paper towels. Rub the skin with 1 tablespoon oil. Under loosened skin, rub marjoram, garlic, salt, and pepper. Tuck tapered end of each breast underneath and loosely tie lengthwise with kitchen twine. Tie breasts crosswise at 1 ½-inch intervals to make small “roasts.” Season with pepper.
Heat 12-inch cast-iron skillet (or other ovenproof skillet) over medium heat for 5 minutes. Add the other tablespoon of oil and heat until just smoking. Brown turkey on all sides, about 10 minutes. Flip turkey skin side down. Transfer skillet to oven, and roast turkey for about 1 hour until it registers 160 F, flipping breasts halfway through roasting. Carefully remove skillet from oven. Transfer turkey to carving board, tent loosely with aluminum foil, and let rest while making chutney. Using potholders, pour off all but 1 tablespoon fat from hot skillet. Add shallot, ginger, mustard seeds, and ½ teaspoon salt. Cook over medium heat until shallot is softened, about 30 seconds. Stir in cranberries, sugar, water, and orange zest. Bring to simmer and cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cranberries break down and mixture is thickened. Remove from heat and stir in vinegar and any accumulated turkey juices. Remove twine from turkey and slice into ¼-inch-thick slices. Serve with chutney.
Honey Mustard Brussels Sprout Salad Serves 4 | This salad is a delicious swap for a standard side. 1 ⅓ ⅓ ⅓ ¼ 2 1 1 1 ¼
pound Brussels sprouts cup slivered almonds cup tart dried cherries or cranberries cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese cup extra-virgin olive oil tablespoons apple cider vinegar tablespoon honey tablespoon Dijon mustard garlic clove, pressed teaspoon fine sea salt
Cut off ends of Brussels sprouts and remove any brown leaves. Slice as thinly as possible or use a food processor to slice. Toast almonds over medium heat in dry skillet for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and golden. In a medium serving bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, honey, mustard, and garlic. Add sliced Brussels sprouts, almonds, dried fruit, and Parmesan; toss together. Taste, and salt as needed. Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Kathy Patrick is a retired personal chef in Rome, Georgia. She loves cooking, travel, waterskiing, stand-up paddling, and bicycling with her husband, Berry College professor Martin Cipollini. Kathy is a board member of Rome Little Theatre and vice president of the Georgia chapter of The American Chestnut Foundation. nwgeorgialiving.com | 37
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d ROBERT’S WORLD
Things That Pester Me as I Get Older
My pet peeves during the holidays and every other time of the year.
BY ROBERT SMYTH
I
know this is supposed to be a holiday article, covering up the gray to look younger, but if you do but I’ve written about all I can about the it with bright purple, don’t expect me to have an holidays. So, instead, I thought I’d share with adult conversation with you unless it’s to ask when you some things I just don’t understand other the circus is coming to town. Maybe I’m just jealous adults doing during the holidays or any other time. because if I tried to color my hair a bright color, it As a disclaimer: the opinions expressed in this would just look like one of the balls from the pool article are my own and do not reflect the opinions table had rolled off. of anyone else associated with this magazine Last on the list of things that irk me are adults and, according to my wife, are the ramblings of a who try to dress way younger than they are or dunderhead. don’t know how to dress when they go out. Please Let’s start with adult men wearing flip-flops understand that I’m no fashion plate, and I’m waiting anywhere other than the beach, the lake, or when for them to come out with a tux made of the same moving from the hot tub into a material as a Columbia fishing pair of acceptable man shoes. but just because it looks “As a disclaimer: the shirt, It also seems like the men who good on the mannequin or in insist on wearing flip-flops have opinions expressed the magazine doesn’t mean it the most jacked-up toenails you’ll will look good on you even if ever see, and you all know what it’s the “style” of the minute. I’ve in this article are I’m talking about — toenails that seen some yoga pants that were my own and do not pushed to their limits, and cutoff look like wolverine claws in every putrid color of the rainbow or toes shorts, a crop top, and reflect the opinions denim so hairy you wonder which hobbit boots on anyone over 50 send shire they hail from. I guess they the wrong message no matter of anyone else don’t have the same nagging how fit you think you are. Also, feeling in the back of their brain men, please break down and buy associated with that I do. I just know that if I one pair of dress pants and a this magazine and, nice shirt for special occasions. ever wore flip-flops in public, that would be the day the aliens Harley-Davidson T-shirt, according to my wife, Your invade, and there I would be, hoody, and “good jeans” are trying to run from a death laser in are the ramblings of inappropriate for a wedding or flip-flops. Or maybe they’ll see my dressy holiday party, no matter gnarly toenails and be repulsed how cool you think you are. a dunderhead.” and leave in fear. The flip-flop Oh, and pajama pants aren’t guys might be on to something appropriate anywhere other than after all. your house. If I see another grown adult in WinnieNext up is anyone over the age of 16 who colors the-Pooh pajama pants in public, I’m gonna lose it. their hair a bright shade of anything and expects So, to make this a “holiday article,” I’ll wrap it the rest of us to take them seriously. I hear some up with this: when buying your holiday gifts, no of you saying right now, “They’re just expressing flip-flops for the guys, don’t dye your hair red and themselves.” That’s fine, as long as you run a green, and please don’t wear your pajama pants out new-age crystal and hemp underwear store, or it anywhere other than a involves three rings, huge shoes, and a squeaky red Polar Express party. Have nose but not handling my bank deposit or referring a great holiday! to yourself as a medical professional. I understand 40 | NW GEORGIA LIVING NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023
Join Us for the Holidays!
The Rink at Ridge Ferry Park
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Nov 23 - Jan 15 Ridge Ferry Park Holiday ice skating and holiday fun in a covered outdoor arena, open rain or shine
Victorian Christmas Trolley Tour
Dec 15 Departs from Rome Area History Center, Downtown Rome Learn local holiday lore and history as you tour the historic districts decked out for the holidays
Winter Wonderland 2023
Nov 24-Dec 30 AdventHealth Stadium Ice rink, light displays, snow experiences and more
Rome Christmas Parade
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Nov 28 Downtown Rome Largest Christmas parade in the state Ice Skating
Dec 1, 7 pm Forum River Center Bareback Rider, Todd Pierce demonstrates the power of God’s love through this living illustration of an unbroken horse Dec 2, 10 am - 4 pm Rome Civic Center Indoor/outdoor holiday market features area artisans and crafters, free admission
Snow experiences
A Kenny & Dolly Christmas Tribute Dec 1 Rome City Auditorium Old Time Christmas Concert Dec 2 Bluegrass, gospel & barbershop quartet Rome City Auditorium
Born Wild
Winter Art Market
Live Holiday Performances
ELF The Musical Dec 1-10 (Fri-Sun) Rome Little Theatre Historic DeSoto Theatre Downtown Rome Holiday Fun
Cave Spring Christmas in the Country & Parade Dec 2 Downtown Cave Spring Annual arts and crafts festival and Christmas Bazaar
Downtown Rome
Shop & dine historic downtown Rome for fun Christmas displays and holiday festivities
Scan for more info: RomeEvents.org
Christmas Back Home Concert Dec 8-9 Rockin’ Christmas band with Scott Thompson and friends Rome City Auditorium A Very Brassy Christmas Dec 17 Rome Symphony Orchestra Rome City Auditorium
Christmas Tree Farm
Opens Nov 24 Silver Creek Christmas Tree Farm Bring the family to pick out your own perfect tree and create holiday memories
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