Inspired Living Omaha May-June 2017

A N O M A H A W O R L D - H E R A L D P U B L I C AT I O N

M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 7 INSPIREDLIVINGOMAHA.COM

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MOTHER’S DAY GIFTS

M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 7

VOL. 15 NO. 3 Editor-in-Chief Chris Christen 402-444-1094 chris.christen@owh.com Creative Director/Designer Heidi Thorson 402-444-1351 hthorson@owh.com Assistant Editor Kim Carpenter 402-444-1416 kim.carpenter@owh.com Photo Imaging Specialist Patricia “Murphy” Benoit Content Contributors Kiley Cruse, Kurt A. Keeler, Chad Lebo, Maggy Lehmicke, Jessica Luna, Howard K. Marcus

VISIT US ON FACEBOOK!

Home Theater & Surround Sound Home Automation High Performance Stereo Systems Lighting & Shade Control

Photography Contributors Jeffrey Bebee, Kiley Cruse, Heather & Jameson, Chad Lebo, Maggy Lehmicke, Ryan Soderlin On the Cover Photo: Heather & Jameson Custom Publishing Sales Manager Deb McChesney | 402-444-1448 | Debbie.Cavalier@owh.com Account Representatives Sara Baker | 402-444-1442 | Sara.Baker@owh.com Gay Liddell | 402-444-1489 | Gay.Liddell@owh.com Emily Martin | 402-444-1411 | Emily.Martin@owh.com Event Manager Tam Webb | 402-444-3125 | Tam.Webb@owh.com Event Coordinator Emily Gerhardt | 402-444-1161 | Emily.Gerhardt@owh.com

1314 Douglas St., Suite 700 Omaha, NE 68102 402-444-1094 Inspired Living Omaha (ISSN 23795948) is a publication of the Omaha World-Herald. ©2017, Omaha World-Herald, a Berkshire Hathaway Company. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the specific written permission of the publisher. The opinions expressed by those interviewed are their own. While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information, no responsibility can be accepted by the publisher for content, opinions or practices, or how the information herein is used. All materials submitted, including but not limited to images, logos and text that appear, are assumed to be the original work of the provider, and the publisher is not responsible for unintentional copyright infringement.

402-502-4502 • crescendohometheater.com 4 MAY/JUNE 2017

EDITOR'S NOTE

'PAWS-ITIVELY' ADORABLE If I could get my husband CHRIS CHRISTEN editor-in-chief

FUN FACT Chris once had a Siberian Husky that ate a pair of her pantyhose. The vet asked if she wanted them back.

She did not.

to agree, I’d follow in David Lemunyon’s footsteps in a hot minute.

The Omahan is a foster parent – to puppies awaiting adoption.

“It’s the hardest thing and the best thing I’ve ever done,” David told me as he delivered a litter of 11 bouncy pups to our studio for a photo play date.

Stay connected between issues.

Get sneak peeks of styled shoots, bonus photos from current issues, recipe links and more. @inspiredlivingomaha

If only you could have heard the squeals of delight as our team cuddled, cooed and snapped selfies with these rambunctious 8-week-olds!

Be inspired by people, places and things that we  . Food, fashion & décor top the list. @inspiredomaha

The puppies – an American FoxhoundLabrador Retriever mix – were 3 days old when they gained doting David as their foster dad. (His goal is to foster a total of 50 pups this year!)

Find thousands of projects to fit your lifestyle on our Pinterest boards. Our current obsession: miniature fashion. @inspiredomaha

Old enough for adoption, the littermates fell into our lap after a call to my always-accommodating friend, Pam Wiese of the Nebraska Humane Society.

See the 11 in action, page 40.

Have a story idea, question or comment? Email the editor at chris.christen@owh.com

I'm happy to report that immediately after our photo session (declared the

most-delightful ever), nine of our little buddies were off to new homes.

Learn more about welcoming a pet into your family – either temporarily or forever – at nehumanesociety.org.

Even if you can’t have the real thing, you still can enjoy their company by incorporating pet motifs in your décor.

See our menagerie, page 38.

Family-friendly design continues on page 28 with a tour of a 7,000-squarefoot home with a ton of fun features – including a slide inspired by the ones at Gene Leahy Mall!

See how a local actress stages a beautiful renovation, page 13, and peer into a garden-loving artist’s live-work paradise, page 22.

You can also meet a citizen of the world, page 48.

Last but not least, join chef Chad Lebo as he puts his inimitable spin on cabbage, page 58.

Here’s hoping this issue is a doggone fun read!

SHARE YOUR STORY Traveling this summer? Send your best photos to chris.christen@owh.com and you just may land in our July-August issue!

6 MAY/JUNE 2017

fashion meets

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inspiredlivingomaha.com 7

BEFORE + AFTER 12 | Star Quality

AU COURANT 38 | Reigning Cats & Dogs

DESTINATION 54 | Seattle

HOMESPIRATION 22 | Artful Spaces

THREADS 40 | Best in Show

THE HIDDEN PANTRY 58 | Cabbage & Cato

DESIGN DONE RIGHT 28 | The Fun House

PROFILE 48 | Citizen of the World

EXPERIENCE LOCAL 15 | Sarah Maier 37 | Luxury Homes

HOST 50 | Pet-Tested Treats

ELEGANCE

REIMAGINED SHOPPING HOURS Monday-Friday 10 am-8 pm | Saturday 10 am-7 pm | Sunday 12 pm-5 pm | Individual store hours may vary

STORES Ann Taylor | Anthropologie | Borsheims | Christian Nobel Furs | Evereve | Francesca’s Collections Garbo’s Salon & Spa | Learning Express Toys | LOFT | Parsow’s Fashions | Pottery Barn Pottery Barn Kids | Rhylan Lang | Tilly | White House Black Market | Williams-Sonoma

DINING Bonefish Grill | Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar | Paradise Bakery & Café

8 MAY/JUNE 2017

RegencyCourtOmaha.com

S TAY I N S P I R E D. S TAY C O N N E C T E D. CATHLEEN A. VANHAUER Jan. 5, 1955 – March 29, 2017

TRENDING

We remember friend and colleague Cathy Vanhauer. An advertising account executive for the magazine, Cathy was dedicated, caring and kind. Through her cancer illness, she taught us about strength, passion and grace. She deeply loved nature and sharing stories of her garden. As our own green spaces come alive with blooms, the ILO family misses her humor, enthusiasm, bright smile and wonderful laugh. We dedicate this issue to Cathy’s memory.

YOUR INSTAGRAM FAVORITES

"Spotted by Mike Whye outside the Council Bluffs Public Library, where staff supply patrons with more than books."

"We're a dedicated bunch! Co-worker @ki_cruse stopped to snap this on her way to the office."

"@lolasblest captures the rosy side of life. #repost #wedontcoast"

"Spring is here, and this garden scene is made entirely of Lego blocks!

76,840 to be exact."

"The backdrop to this dart board contains corks from 900 bottles." See it on page 35.

"Happiness is doing a photo shoot with a litter of pups from @nehumanesociety." See this shoot, page 40.

THREADS: UNRAVELED Our Threads team was all smiles on the set for this issue's fashion editoral.

See this most adorable shoot on page 40.

IN OUR NEXT ISSUE

@inspiredlivingomaha

@inspiredomaha

@inspiredomaha

Prepare to explore as we share our best travel tips.

!

TRENDING VIEW MORE ONLINE Look for this icon to find bonus inspiration at inspiredlivingomaha.com

inspiredlivingomaha.com 9

CONTRIBUTORS

HEIDI THORSON

KIM CARPENTER

DEB M c CHESNEY

FUN FACT Heidi's heart melts every time she finds her two cats snuggling together, which happens on a daily basis.

FUN FACT Kim has a dog named Lorna who ignores her.

FUN FACT Deb has two cats, Ozzy and Nilla, and a dog, Lacey Loo. Coming soon to her menagerie, Pickle the parakeet.

KILEY CRUSE

assistant editor

advertising account manager

photographer

advertising account executive

GAY LIDDELL

MURPHY BENOIT

FUN FACT Kiley's first pet as a child was a calico cat.

He found enjoyment in biting her toes – and she became a dog lover.

FUN FACT Gay is excited her home is finally getting a much-needed facelift. It’s going to look fabulous when it’s done!

FUN FACT Murphy has one more brick walkway to install with salvage bricks from several old Omaha buildings.

EMILY MARTIN

photo imaging specialist

advertising account executive

advertising account executive

SARA BAKER

HOWARD K. MARCUS

FUN FACT Emily has two dogs, Louis, a miniature poodle, and Fritz, a miniature schnauzer.

FUN FACT Sara is ready to enjoy warm summer days complete with sunshine, chips and salsa and a margarita.

FUN FACT Howard once mailed his wife's cat a get-well card and her dog a squeaky toy in a Borsheim's box.

10 MAY/JUNE 2017

copy editor

PHOTOS: HEIDI THORSON, KURT A. KEELER, HEATHER & JAMESON, JEFFREY BEBEE, LANE HICKENBOTTOM, MORGAN JADE PHOTOGRAPHY

creative director + designer

HEATHER + JAMESON

JESSICA LUNA

MAGGY LEHMICKE

FUN FACT Heather and Jameson teach classes from Photography 101 to iPhoneography in their studio at Bench.

FUN FACT Jessica recently traveled to Key West. The vibrant colors of the area have inspired her wardrobe changes for summer.

FUN FACT Maggy can speak elementary level Russian.

CHAD LEBO

KALI RAHDER

ANDREA VEITH

FUN FACT Chad's wife has expressed her jealousy about his relationship with their dog.

FUN FACT Kali's dachshund, Lelu, is named for a Supreme Being in "The Fifth Element" (1997).

FUN FACT Andrea adopted a Colorpoint Siamese two years ago. He loves to snuggle and chase the dogs down the hallway.

KURT A. KEELER

JEFFREY BEBEE

RYAN SODERLIN

FUN FACT Kurt's best advice when traveling with two or more cameras: be sure they are set for the same time and time zone.

FUN FACT Jeffrey had a yellow lab for 13 years. He thought she was a very unique dog, but later realized all yellow labs act the same.

FUN FACT I'm an avid mountain biker and I can't wait for the trails to dry up so I can get out there and ride.

fashion photographers

food columnist

copy editor

fashion stylist

hair & makeup stylist

photographer

travel writer

advertising sales assistant

photographer

inspiredlivingomaha.com  11

BEFORE + AFTER WALLPAPER: PAL1037, Omecco

BEFORE

12  MAY/JUNE 2017

Leading lady's horse country home has plenty of high style for busy family

S

STORY KIM CARPENTER PHOTOGRAPHY JEFFREY BEBEE

he has soared from the rafters of The Rose Theater as Mary Poppins, trilled Pitti-Sing’s part in “The Mikado” at the Orpheum Theater and perfected Elle Woods’ “bend and snap” in the Omaha Community Playhouse production of “Legally Blonde.” From May 26 through June 25, she’ll return to the Playhouse stage as Belle in Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast.”

Leanne Hill Carlson is one of Omaha’s most recognizable stage presences, and unsurprisingly, her home has the kind of elegant glamour you’d associate with a versatile leading lady.

It didn’t start that way. When Leanne and her husband, Mark, an obstetrician with Methodist Physicians Clinic, purchased their home in August 2014, it was a bit – make that a lot – dated. Built in the late 1980s, it had low ceilings, small rooms, maroon carpeting and track lighting.

The selling point was the property itself, which featured beautiful landscaping and an in-ground pool.

The home was located in Elkhorn’s Skyline Ranches neighborhood in the middle of suburban horse country with a rustic sign in the neighborhood reminding visitors that “children and horses have right of way.”

“I hesitated,” confesses Leanne. “The house hadn’t been touched since 1987. But we wanted land, and it was so beautiful and peaceful out here. Mark watches HGTV and had always wanted to do something. He said, ‘We can change the house, but we can’t change the amount of land.’ I don’t have any vision when it comes to grand design, but Mark does.”

His vision involved completely transforming the interior. “We knew what we wanted to do,” Leanne says.

“The one challenge was reconfiguring the space for the way we live.”

That meant tearing down some walls that separated individual rooms to create an open floor plan. Gone was the ceiling that closed in the entryway and made it feel hemmed in. In its place, a grand foyer with a soaring staircase.

The couple repeated the tactic throughout the rest of the home, which now boasts a wide-open circular flow perfect for 3-year-old Nora and 6-year-old Henry, and their cat Phil.

Leanne also wanted a lot of natural light to make the rooms feel airy and bright. “I wanted as many windows as we could put in. I said, ‘Bring in the light!’ I love that about our house.”

She entrusted the interior design to Paul Hanson of Paul Hanson Design in Omaha. (He played opposite her in “Legally Blonde” in 2012.) Leanne knew Paul could pay homage to Skyline Ranches while maintaining a chic sensibility.

“We really wanted to bring in the neighborhood’s charm,” Leanne says. “I remember coming to this neighborhood when I was a kid, because my parents had a friend out here, and I was just mesmerized by the horses and the barns.”

The designer combined materials like leather, metal, glass and wood, using neutral colors and rich textures to achieve a sophisticated look that’s simultaneously luxurious and laid back — perfect for the Carlsons’ easy-going lifestyle.

“We wanted our home to represent us, and it does,” says Leanne. “We wanted it to be a wonderful place to come home to, which is a very cliché thing to say, but it’s important. This just feels like us, and we use every room every day. I can’t think of anything I would want more. It turned out wonderfully.” (continued on page 14)

DINING ROOM Once the living room, the dining room is elegant but casual enough for everyday dinners. “Our old home had a separate dining room, which we never used. But this is where we eat. I love the wallpaper.

I’m a big fan of ‘Downton Abbey’ and as I was watching one day, I realized, ‘That’s the same wallpaper!’

I didn’t mean it to be.” A bench keeps little ones from messing up the chairs and provides ample seating. “It’s really convenient when we have friends over. We can fit everyone at the table.”

inspiredlivingomaha.com 13

BEFORE

KITCHEN The Carlsons love to cook, and they entertain often with casual parties. A 13foot granite island allows the couple to set up a buffet, hang out and talk. “We cook dinner just about every night,” Leanne says, adding that the GE Monogram range was a must for Mark. It features a griddle, grill and two ovens. The hood was custom made by the same company that did the cabinetry.

14 MAY/JUNE 2017

CABINETRY: GV Kustom Kitchens BACKSPLASH: Teak tiles, Walker Zanger, Sunderland Brothers Co.

EXPERIENCE LOCAL

SARAH MAIER, BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS REAL ESTATE

S

PANTRY The barn door is more than architectural salvage. Mark grew up in Cozad, Nebraska, and the door is from an old barn on the family farm. “It truly has history behind it,” smiles Leanne. “I have a picture of me in front of it (the barn) before it was torn down.”

arah Maier has found her perfect place in Omaha by helping a growing number of home buyers find theirs.

“This business is about building relationships with people,” says Sarah, a licensed real estate agent with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate-The Good Life Group.

Embracing a “client first” philosophy, Sarah says she blends innovative tools and marketing expertise with extensive local knowledge. That result has been a three-fold increase in closings over the last three years.

“It’s really important to listen to your clients’ needs and learn about their lifestyles. Then, it’s about putting in the time, making sure you’re available, reliable and ready to walk them through the process from start to finish.”

With Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate since May, Sarah says she loves being affiliated with a trusted household brand that prizes quality and personalized service.

“We follow five core values: passion, authenticity, inclusion, growth and excellence. That’s what we strive for every day.”

Whether she is working with a buyer or ushering a seller to closing, Sarah says her foundation in real estate is helping people.

“I love being able to call and say, ‘You got the house.’

Knowing I helped make their dream come true is, to me, the ultimate reward of this business.”

8026 West Dodge Road 402-830-2879 OmahaSelectRealty.com inspiredlivingomaha.com 15

LIVING ROOM The living room features a blend of textures, including leather chairs and metal side tables, in a nod to the neighborhood’s equestrian history. The fireplace mantel is a salvaged railroad tie from the Carlson family farm. Playbills and books from shows the actress has done fill the built-in shelves.

WINE CELLAR The wine cellar was added in May 2016 to celebrate Mark’s 40th birthday. The flooring is tile, not wood. The wooden ledge was salvaged from a 1910 rail car. Heritage Painting & Restorations did the salvage and restoration work.

WINE RACK The couple derived inspiration for their wine storage system from Jams restaurant. “We love big, bold Cabs, particularly from California,” Leanne says.

16 MAY/JUNE 2017

BEFORE

BEFORE

BEFORE

MASTER BATH The serene master bath includes a porcelain ball-andclaw tub and a separate walk-in shower. Carrara marble and cool blues complete the calming ambiance.

TILE: Quarry from Astor, Kate-Lo Tile & Stone

MASTER BEDROOM A four-poster bed adds a sense of antique charm to the master suite. The lighting fixture is from Pottery Barn. “I had it in my old house. I loved it so much, I bought the same one.”

WALLCOVERING: Aristocrat ND7055, Candice Olson

inspiredlivingomaha.com 17

HENRY'S ROOM Henry’s room features an old-fashioned sleigh bed and accents that appeal to his interests. “He loves airplanes and sharks,” says Leanne. “A year ago, it was rockets.

Anything aviation!”

BARN The home’s former owner built the two-story barn as a woodworking studio. “It’s just storage right now, but eventually we’re going to make it into something fun.”

She teases that it would be perfect for the Leanne Carlson School of Acting.

NORA'S ROOM Nora’s pretty pink space features a built-in bench for toy storage and display.

18 MAY/JUNE 2017

POOL In addition to the pool and pergola, the property includes a built-in stone fire pit, fountain and hot tub.

Elegance.

Durability.

Value.

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inspiredlivingomaha.com  19

Small But Stylish: 5 Tips for Mini Outdoor Spaces If you have a small patio or balcony, a couple of key pieces can make a big impact.

Haeley Giambalvo

You don’t need a huge backyard to create an outdoor haven.

In fact, sometimes the smallest area can offer the coziest of nooks! Whether you have a tiny porch or petite patio, blogger Haeley Giambalvo of Design Improvised has five easy tips to maximize your space:

designimprovised.com

1

4

2 3 1. Choose Pieces That Pack a Punch If you have room for only one chair, for example, go for an extra special piece such as this hanging egg chair.

Not only is it a gorgeous focal point, but also it adds a big dose of fun!

ITEM SHOWN: ISLAND BAY RESIN WICKER HANGING EGG CHAIR

2. Don’t Forget the Accents Even when your outdoor area is limited, you can still make room for fun extras. Accents such as small fountains or a timeless lantern will help your look feel finished.

ITEM SHOWN: SMART DESIGN SALERNO LANTERN

3. Go Tall (and Bold) Tall décor adds style in the vertical zone, and you might consider going beyond neutral.

Planters often are an overlooked opportunity to add vibrant style to a space. They can bring spring color to your patio even before your plants have started blooming.

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20 MAY/JUNE 2017

4. Opt for Double-Duty Pieces Multifunction is the name of the game.

For instance, an outdoor serving cart holds food and drinks for casual patio entertaining, and it can act as a plant stand for potted flowers or herbs in between.

ITEM SHOWN: JECO WICKER SERVING CART

5 5. Look Up! Take advantage of all your surface area by adding décor to walls or the ceiling.

Wind chimes or framestyle planters bring style without clutter.

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Fresh Styles, Refreshed Spaces Discover bright style ideas for your home – indoors and out – at hayneedle.com. You’ll find a wide selection of furniture and décor, including new, on-trend yet affordable exclusives and designer looks for every space, style, and budget.

inspiredlivingomaha.com 21

HOMESPIRATION

Couple gives tract home a whole new dimension STORY CHRIS CHRISTEN PHOTOGRAPHY JEFFREY BEBEE

I

t was 2005 and their house at the time needed new carpeting. So Sondra and Jason Gerber starting looking at model homes for the latest ideas in flooring.

He teasingly said to her, “You know, a new house comes with new

carpet.”

With that, their search took a new direction.

The question foremost on this garden-loving couple’s mind: How cool would it be to find a huge lot that could be sculpted into a work of art?

“That’s what I was most interested in,” recalls Sondra.

They found their “perfect lot” in The Grove, a Benchmark Homes subdivision in far west Omaha.

But for them, the floor plan of the developer’s standard model would take some tweaking.

The couple both work from home, Sondra as a metal artist and Jason as operations manager for their Blue Pomegranate Gallery. “We had some aesthetic and functional needs because of that,” Sondra explains.

Their builder agreed to modify the floor plan.

Ceilings were raised. A fireplace and staircase were relocated. A mud-and-laundry room was added. And, perhaps of most importance, windows were moved to maximize views of the yard and flood rooms with natural light.

The changes ultimately would allow Sondra to have a design studio in the lower level and her metalworking shop in the garage.

The house sits on a one-acre lot bordered by

a creek and woods on two sides. “Others had passed up the lot because they didn’t want the (yard) work,” Sondra remembers. “We loved it because it had tons of room” and healthy willows, oaks and cottonwoods.

The interior of the home is a reflection of her artistic nature. She decorates just as she creates – in 3-D, striving for an element of surprise in depth, color and texture.

“I’ll let spaces sit unfinished until I find the perfect elements for them,” Sondra confides.

For her, DIY is an art form.

“I’m a project junkie,” she admits. “I wake up thinking about what I’m going to do next.”

Botanical themes recur in the décor, with eucalyptus leaves a signature element. Circles have a significant place, too. “When we were married, the pastor talked about circles of influence in two lives,” Sondra explains. “Designwise, circles give an organic feel to a space.’’

Vintage chairs and family heirlooms mix and mingle with the modern vibe of IKEA furnishings and accessories.

Original art, to no one’s surprise, anchors every room.

Curtains and drapes? No need. “The trees are natural screens,” Sondra says.

The couple share a compact home office and a common understanding. “We have the headphone rule,” Jason says. “When they are on, we don’t bother each other.”

In addition to his Blue Pom duties, Jason jokes that he is “director of chaos’’ for their endeavors, which includes online commerce (continued on page 24)

22 MAY/JUNE 2017

THE COUPLE Sondra and Jason Gerber sold their previous home to a couple who wanted all their furnishings and art. The buyers were newly married and were relocating from Minneapolis. “Just bundle it,” they said when making their offer. “We moved here in a pickup truck,” Jason says.

FLOORING “We bought the cheapest carpet, ripped it out a year later and installed bamboo flooring throughout,” Sondra says. Its resistance to dents and scratches makes it ideal for their high-traffic household, which includes two cats and a dog.

inspiredlivingomaha.com  23

LIVING ROOM The midcentury chairs once belonged to a great-aunt of Jason’s. Sondra’s artwork hangs throughout the home.

BREAKFAST NOOK A formal dining room was nixed for a breakfast nook.

The Howard Miller grandfather clock was a fifth anniversary present to themselves. The painting, by Jeff Boutin, was bartered. (continued from page 22)

for the gallery. In addition to operating an Apple consulting company, Jason is a technical whiz in sound and lighting design and audio-video integration. All of that makes for a home that’s wired for convenience.

A customized “good night” panel in the master bedroom controls lights, thermostat, audio-video – “everything but locking the cats (Bonnie and Clyde) in the basement for the night.” He has even engineered a goodbye and welcome system at the front door.

Sondra has been the engineer of their garden. Watching it mature has been especially rewarding. “I get my green thumb from my dad,” she says. A bonus: He lives

24 MAY/JUNE 2017

nearby. “I’ll look out the window, and there he is, my little garden gnome, weeding, watering and doing maintenance.”

The Gerbers don’t keep this bit of paradise all to themselves. Each Memorial Day weekend, they host a garden event for Blue Pom customers and friends.

“Every artist has a personal payoff,” Jason says. “Sondra’s is seeing her vision come to life. She throws it around in her head and then executes her plan without as much as a drawing.”

The garden is a vivid example. It’s meticulously planted according to color, texture and height, yet whimsical in its design. “I like to let my sense of humor come

out in the garden,” Sondra says. “I love that I can make people smile and laugh” along the garden paths.

The view from the kitchen table is a favorite. “No matter what the weather is, it’s always beautiful,” Sondra says.

“We start our day sitting side by side at the table, looking out the window,” Sondra says. “Whoever is up first makes breakfast.

We’ll make our plans for the day, go off and do our thing and then get together in the afternoon for coffee.”

Evenings, they eat on the patio as the sun’s golden rays stream through the trees.

“It’s our favorite time of the day,” she says.

GLIDERS “We create all these seating areas but we never actually take time to sit,” Jason says.

Sondra refinished this vintage glider last summer. Garden art, much of it created by Sondra or an artist represented in her gallery, dots the landscape.

inspiredlivingomaha.com 25

MASTER BEDROOM The DIY headboard is made from lightly padded plywood wrapped in vinyl. The ceramic flowers are by a Kansas City artist.

26  MAY/JUNE 2017

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inspiredlivingomaha.com  27

DESIGN DONE RIGHT

Papillion couple creates family dream home complete with indoor slide, putting green and colorchanging mood lighting STORY KIM CARPENTER PHOTOGRAPHY JEFFREY BEBEE

B

ig, flat lot, but not too big.

Basketball court.

Speakers with TV in kitchen, living room, outside and basement.

Those were just a few “musts” on a detailed list Jeff Stearnes keeps on his smartphone. Titled “Dream House,” it’s a reminder of the ultimate family residence he and his wife, Lisa, set out to create for their children: Maddie, 6; Kate, 9; and Ben, 12.

Lisa, a stay-at-home-mom, and Jeff, an OB-GYN physician with CHI Health Clinic, began compiling their dream amenities while living in their first home, a modest 2,300 square-foot residence.

They spent years researching floor plans, scanning the Internet for inspiration and touring Street of Dreams homes.

“Both of us are very visual people,” says Lisa. The couple turned to Advance Design & Construction for a blueprint that would incorporate their wish list and to Libby Pantzlaff, interior design consultant and owner of Creative Interiors by Libby, for an interior that would have a familial ambiance.

(continued on page 31)

28 MAY/JUNE 2017

BACKSPLASH: Reeded glass tiles, ProSource ISLAND: Quartzite, Polished Super White, G.M.S. Wërks CABINETRY: CE Smith Custom Cabinets & Countertops

KITCHEN The kitchen is a calm hub in a busy household. “I wanted it to open into the family room, where we spend most of our time,” says Lisa.

Reeded glass diffuses light and keeps the cabinets from looking heavy,” Libby says. inspiredlivingomaha.com 29

ENTRYWAY “It’s just a good feeling when you come inside,” says interior designer Libby Pantzlaff. “Everything is so cheery and bright.”

30 MAY/JUNE 2017

LIVING ROOM A small room off the entry is Lisa Stearnes’ sanctuary.

“The kids always, always, always hog the TV. I wanted this room to be pretty and comfortable and quaint.”

Considerable thought, Libby says, went into each space and how to make it useful, interesting or fun. The dreaming, building and decorating paid off when the Papillion family moved into the 7,000-square-foot home in November 2015.

Most emblematic of the family-first approach is the steel slide just off the kitchen that plummets to the lower-level sports court.

Inspired by the giant stainless steel slides at Gene Leahy Mall in downtown Omaha, the quirky amenity is the reason the home has its own gymnasium in the first place.

“We had seen a slide on Houzz, and we asked the builder if he could do one,” explains Lisa. “I wanted it to be hidden, but we couldn’t hide it anywhere, so the gym was born.”

Plus, she adds with a chuckle, “I wanted a pool, Jeff wanted a gym. We got the gym. He’s a huge I-want-my-kids-to-have-fun guy.”

So is Jeff’s dad, Butch. When Jeff’s sister, Jill, found the ideal slide at American Playground in Anderson, Indiana, Butch fetched it from his home in Pekin, Illinois, with his flatbed trailer. Jeff’s Uncle Ed went along for the 14-hour, 1,000-mile round trip.

“It’s 19.9 feet long and weighs 600 pounds,” says Jeff of the indoor novelty. “It took 10 of us to walk it into the house.”

Other family fun features include an indoor putting green, water fountain, billiard room and granite bar outlined with LED lights that extend to the inside of a glass-front refrigerator and cast a soft glow across the ceiling.

“We can change it to any color according to what’s going on,” says Lisa, demonstrating with a push of a button. “We can do red for Valentine’s Day, green for St. Patrick’s Day and blue for Cubs games.”

For the bar rail, a friend at Union Pacific tracked down a 90-pound track rail. Installed, the 100-plus-year-old rail is about 15 feet long and weighs 450 pounds. “Lisa’s dad, Luke, worked for UP for 45 years, so I thought it would be a fun conversation piece,” Jeff explains. His dad’s flatbed was enlisted again – this time to transport the rail from Fremont to Papillion.

“My dad and I went to several bars to measure for the ultimate height for a bar rail,” Jeff grins.

Asked how many bars it took to gauge the proper height, he calculates for a second. “We went to four in one day.”

“Jeff is very, very detail-oriented,” interjects Lisa with a knowing smile. “He spent hours on the rail making it perfect. He’s adamant about these things.”

It’s no wonder the bar was the place to be last New Year’s Eve. “We had over 100 people here,” recounts Lisa. “There were over 50 kids. The gym was packed!”

That, for the devoted mom, makes all the hours of dreaming, researching and planning worth it – even if she and Jeff didn’t get everything on their Dream House wish list.

“We wanted this to be the ‘fun house,’ and we have tons and tons and tons of fun in it,” she says. “That’s the whole point – to have people over. There’s no point to keeping the house to ourselves. I’m so happy to be able to share it with friends and family.”

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SPORTS COURT Built by Sport Construction Midwest in Iowa, the gymnasium boasts maple NCAA volleyball flooring and a 21-foot ceiling. The space is equipped with basketball hoop, golf netting, unbreakable stainless steel mirror, a stowable volleyball and badminton net, sound system and geothermal heating and cooling. “We’re like a mini community center. There’ll be 20 kids in here playing basketball,” Lisa says.

A projection system turns one of the sports court walls into a movie screen. “The kids bring pillows in here, and it’s just like an outdoor movie,” Lisa says. A swing and climbing wall are next. “The ceiling is reinforced and strong enough to hold a car,” says Jeff.

SLIDE Jeff researched the slide’s height and slope (30 degrees) to make sure it was not too fast, not too slow, but just right.

“It had to be safe,” he says of the padded base. “We also wanted a slide that was big enough for adults, and most adults who come here do go down!”

32 MAY/JUNE 2017

DOGWASH Bella’s doggie spa is just off the kitchen. “She’s a cute dog,” Libby says of the family’s miniature golden doodle. “She goes with the house.”

MUDROOM A mudroom with five wooden lockers and designated space for Bella’s dog dishes was a “must-have.”

inspiredlivingomaha.com 33

BAR Jeff and Lisa designed the brushed granite bar, mocking it up with masking tape on a wall of their former home. “We love the Old World arch,” Lisa says of the stonework by Baltazar’s Stone of Omaha. The lighting system, installed

by KT Electric, adjusts to the spirit of any occasion.

34 MAY/JUNE 2017

PUTTING GREEN/EXERCISE ROOM A Birdie Turf putting green in the exercise room (opposite page) allows Jeff to keep his skills sharp. The photo backdrop, from Fathead.com, is of TPC Scottsdale’s legendary stadium hole, which Jeff has played.

BILLIARD ROOM The cork dartboard backdrop represents 899 bottles of wine, all happily consumed by the couple, family and friends. Lisa’s dad cut the corks in half. Jeff’s mom hot-glued them to the base in a decorative pattern.

inspiredlivingomaha.com 35

FAMILY ROOM Did you know: Light bulbs affect paint hues. “I had two different light bulbs in one bedroom, and a friend thought the walls were painted two different colors,” Jeff says. “The right bulb can make all the difference.” With this gray, he uses 4,000K LEDs.

36 MAY/JUNE 2017

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AU COURANT

Foxes and owls have their fans, but cats and dogs rule the roost when it comes to home accessories. Dachshunds, in particular, are having a “pawfectly” delightful moment.

STORY CHRIS CHRISTEN

PHOTOGRAPHY HEIDI THORSON

3 5 2 1

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1. Ceramic drawer pulls, Anthropologie | 2. Rifel Paper Co. card, Anthropologie | 3. Fringe ceramic mug, The Afternoon | 4. Sondra Gerber "Cat Sitting" sculpture, Blue Pomegranate Gallery | 5. Sagebrook Home ceramic bookends, Beyond the Vine | 6. Sally Miur ceramic plates, Anthropologie | 7. “Doxy” caddy, Blue Pomegranate Gallery | 8. Iosis “Georges” tapestry pillow; Lancelotte Blue Dachshund pillow, The Linen Gallery | 9. Ottoman, Textiles

38 MAY/JUNE 2017

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THREADS

Whether it’s a cuddle of puppies or a poodle on parade, sometimes our chicest — make that cutest — accessories are man’s best friends.

PHOTOGRAPHY HEATHER & JAMESON ART DIREC TION HEIDI THORSON MERCHANDISE ST YLING JESSICA LUNA HAIR & MAKEUP KALI RAHDER, VICTOR VICTORIA SALON & SPA MODEL SARA, DEVELOP MODEL MANAGEMENT

(On the cover) Malene Birger terry cotton shorts MERCI Epice floral mesh tote CHRISTEL’S Cotton Candy L.A. ruffle top HELLO RUBY Earthen Joy 22k gold-faceted twig necklace HELLO HOLIDAY Marcia Moran pink studs New Prospects quartz ring Tre’sisu herkimer bracelet PIP AND REN

40 MAY/JUNE 2017

8-week-old American FoxhoundLabrador Retriever mixes, fostered by David Lemunyon of Omaha for the Nebraska Humane Society. Similar models available for adoption!

(Opposite page) Nicole Miller off-the-shoulder top CHRISTEL’S Tre’sisu herkimer bracelet PIP AND REN Pleated blush skirt STYLE ENCORE Scale pink bowl Lamb Chop toy Poocci Ruffs floral dog collar WAG

(This page) Ulla Johnson Rafaella jumpsuit THE FOLD Desmarais crochet bag MERCI Rosefield Mercer watch Velvet red lace top Marcia Moran dome ring PIP AND REN Intentionally Blank kipper shoe HELLO HOLIDAY ZENZII drop earrings HUSH LA BOUTIQUE

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Gold chain with tooth HUSH LA BOUTIQUE Peony jacket HELLO HOLIDAY Luur Design bracelet THE FOLD Marcia Moran pink studs Chester dress Tre’sisu rock ring PIP AND REN J. Crew suede wedge sandals STYLE ENCORE

Court, 7, and Muff, 14, Standard Poodles owned by Sharon Roncka of Textiles Inc. These former show dogs go to work with Sharon every day!

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Camillia dress HELLO HOLIDAY Marissa Webb skirt THE FOLD Tre’sisu crescent dangle earrings PIP AND REN Ombre necklace NJ & CO. Gold straw bag ESTHER’S Rose bodysuit HELLO RUBY

Mustard floral V-neck dress HELLO RUBY Dog pillows AMONG OTHER THINGS Versace tote ESTHER’S New Prospects cuff PIP AND REN

Free People bandeau HUSH LA BOUTIQUE Suncoo nude raffia wedge CHRISTEL’S Floral Skirt STYLE ENCORE

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Otaat/Myers Collective white pouch Rag + Bone Eden shoe THE FOLD Alice trouser Stephanie floral dress HELLO HOLIDAY

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Tre’sisu white stone ring PIP AND REN Rose bodysuit HELLO RUBY Gold string choker HUSH LA BOUTIQUE

Off-the-shoulder tunic HUSH LA BOUTIQUE Tre’sisu pink necklace J. Hansen hand-painted canvas clutch PIP AND REN

Boho chic pullover PARSOW’S Mustard skirt HELLO HOLIDAY

Opal midi dress Sunglasses HELLO HOLIDAY Gold cuff STYLE ENCORE Alicia D necklace PARSOW’S Lelu, 6, a red Dapple Dachshund (with different-colored eyes) belongs to our hair-makeup artist, Kali Rahder.

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PROFILE

Omaha by Design executive director brings global experience to organization's mission STORY KIM CARPENTER PHOTOGRAPHY RYAN SODERLIN

J

ulie Reilly was cleaning a delicate object carved from bone when she hesitated as letters slowly revealed themselves from under more than two centuries’ worth of

dirt and grime.

T-H-O-S It was the late 1980s, and the thenconservator of objects at Colonial Williamsburg had been tasked with cleaning a toothbrush recovered from a rubbish pile being excavated next to an historic site.

“I see ‘T-H-O-S,’ and I know that’s Thomas,” recalls Julie, today the executive director of Omaha by Design, a nonprofit devoted to improving the city’s physical spaces. “I revealed a ‘J,’ and I think, ‘No way!’ Sure enough – it was Thomas Jefferson’s toothbrush!”

Julie gets that kind of thrill from objects.

She understands their history and how they were made. She understands what they mean to people and why something used hundreds of years ago continues to captivate imaginations.

She gets what she calls “context.”

Julie’s context started in 1957. Her mother was an artist and her father a civil engineer whose work took him overseas – first with a private contractor and then with

48 MAY/JUNE 2017

the United States Agency for International Development and the State Department.

“Not long after my fourth birthday, we moved from North Carolina to Seoul. That was 1961. I didn’t come back to the U.S. until I was 18,” she says. “I wouldn’t trade this life for anything. I know this sounds cliché, but I really do feel like a citizen of the world.”

As she should. In addition to South Korea, Julie and her older brother, Steve, called Thailand, Kenya and Afghanistan home. She was raised outside the confines of a typical sheltered childhood and experienced the ready availability of drugs and alcohol during her junior high years in Bangkok. During high school in Kabul, she witnessed just how quickly some women grow up in Afghanistan.

“I volunteered at a maternity hospital. It was really pretty shocking,” Julie recounts.

“I remember one room ... There was a 9-year-old girl as happy as she could be to be pregnant.”

By the time the world-traveler graduated from high school in 1975, she was ready for something exotic. She returned stateside. “I decided to go to college in the U.S., because I was an American, and I’d never lived here.”

She was in for culture shock.

“My view of America was one from the outside. I had overly idealistic expectations of this country,” Julie says. “I honestly was not prepared to face the racism, commercialization and lack of respect for education.”

She was also unprepared for being treated as less than autonomous. Julie enrolled at Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, and influenced by her father’s science and engineering background, majored in physics.

“It didn’t take me long to get put on disciplinary notice at Virginia Tech,” she confesses. “I had gone spelunking with a group of male friends. Afterward we were playing cards. Nothing was happening, but I was in a boy’s room after 10 p.m. on a Sunday night. I mean, I had mud-covered overalls on and a helmet! It was against the rules. I wasn’t going to stay somewhere that restrictive.”

Julie made the switch to Towson University in Maryland, where she figured out that physics wasn’t her calling. “I was going to specialize in nuclear science before I realized that was not what I wanted to do.” Instead she became an art major.

“I was taking an art history class and talked to my professor about what to do,” remembers Julie. “By then, I’d realized

I didn’t want to spend the rest of my life as a physicist, and I also didn’t really want to spend the rest of my life as an artist, either. It was like two different ends of the bell curve, and neither was really satisfying for me. My professor said, ‘You should be a scientist who takes care of art.’”

It was Julie’s light bulb moment. She became an art conservator. “I see the beauty of the science as well as the science of the beauty.”

Julie switched her major to anthropology and graduated in 1979. She then earned a second degree in 1982 in the same field with an object conservation concentration from George Washington University in Washington, D.C. The next year she joined the Smithsonian as a conservator at the National Museum of History.

“I got to work on a tool exhibition and conserved 3,000 tools from all ages,” says Julie. “To be able to take objects apart, examine the parts, understand how they work and put them back together, I felt a direct connection with the people who made them and the roles they played in human life, whether a stone tool or a brass sextant from 1898.”

Julie stayed at the Smithsonian until 1985, then joined the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation as associate conservator of objects. It was there she had her close brush with Thomas Jefferson, as well as a host of other historic objects. “You’re in a real 18th-century town, and people are excavating and digging up these important artifacts, and you know that people who changed the course of

history were there – and then you actually hold an object. It is really amazing.’’

While at Colonial Williamsburg, Julie made another important discovery: Nebraska.

“I came to Omaha for the first time in 1985 as a courier for a folk art show for the Joslyn Art Museum. I knew from my art history class who Jun Kaneko was,” she says. “I remember thinking, ‘If Jun Kaneko could live here, I could live here.’

Little did I know that 10 years later I would be moving here.”

But first, Julie headed in 1991 to the Winterthur Museum and Gardens in Delaware, where she directed the objects and metals conservation labs and taught art conservation for the University of Delaware.

A decade after visiting Omaha for the first time, Julie was back – as director of the newly created Gerald R. Ford Conservation Center.

“The Ford Center was the first new facility of that scale for conservation for a period of about 25 years. If you mention the Ford Center in any museum in America, they’ll know about it.”

In her 14 years at the center, Julie and her staff assessed, analyzed and treated a variety of objects that provide context for pivotal moments in American history. Not many people get to see, let alone handle, objects like the Louisiana Purchase Proclamation and John F. Kennedy’s sunglasses.

In 2009 Julie switched jobs again, influenced by one of the things that had drawn her to Omaha in the first place: Jun Kaneko.

“I had been volunteering for the KANEKO and loved the idea of an organization devoted to human creativity.”

Julie became director of development and worked at fundraising for KANEKO until 2012, when she became executive director for Joslyn Castle Trust. “I had written a book on historic house museums, and it was a good fit.”

She joined Omaha by Design in 2015.

Currently she is working with others to update the city lighting ordinance. It hasn’t changed since the advent of LED technology. “We’re also collaborating with colleagues at OPPD to investigate LED for street lighting to encourage best design practices.”

While it might seem unusual for a woman so steeped in human culture and history to be focused on the latest technological innovations, to her it makes complete sense.

“Understanding science and aesthetics together is so important to understanding human existence,” Julie emphasizes. “If I can do anything through my work, I hope it will be to help people understand the larger context in which they think, live and work.”

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HOST

You won’t even have to tell Fido to sit. Our dogs practically turned somersaults for these healthy, evidently irresistible, treats.

RECIPE, PREPARATION & PHOTOGRAPHY KILEY CRUSE

HOMEMADE CANINE CHICKEN JERKY

1. Heat oven to 250 F. 2. Remove excess fat from 2-4 chicken breasts, depending on how much jerky you’d like to make. Slice the chicken into small pieces, about ¼- to ½-inch thick.

3. Lay pieces on a baking rack on top of a rimmed baking dish.

4. Depending on how thickly you sliced the chicken, put pieces in the oven for 1½ to 2 hours.

5. After 1½ hours, flip the pieces and bake for another 30-60 minutes. Thicker pieces may require longer baking times.

Adapted from Proud Dog Mom.

50 MAY/JUNE 2017

ALL-NATURAL HOMEMADE DOG CHEWS

1. Heat oven to 250 F. 2. Wash and dry 2-4 sweet potatoes, depending on the amount of treats you’d like to make. Thinly slice lengthwise, ¼- to 1/3-inch thick maximum.

3. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

4. Bake for 3 hours, turning pieces over halfway through.

They should be chewy and dry.

5. Store all treats in the fridge or freezer because if left out, they can become moldy.

TIP: In lieu of baking, a dehydrator works well for this recipe.

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SWEET POTATO PRETZEL TREATS

PEANUT BUTTER PUMPKIN DOG TREATS

1. Heat oven to 350 F. 2. In a large bowl, whisk together 2 eggs, 1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin puree (do not use pumpkin pie filling) and 3 tablespoons all-natural peanut butter until combined. Add ½ cup oats and 3 cups whole wheat flour and stir well until dough forms.

3. Pour dough onto a floured surface and roll out to 1/2-inch thickness. Cut out using small round cookie cutter.

Using finger tip, press paw print shape into the circle.

4. Bake for 30-35 minutes, until golden brown.

5. Place on cooling racks and let cool thoroughly. They will harden as they cool.

6. Melt 1 cup carob chips and ½-1 teaspoon oil in a double boiler. Carob has a very low melting point and does not reheat well, so watch closely and only melt what you will use.

7. Once melted, add to a piping bag or zip-top bag with a small cut in the corner and fill in the paw-print indentions.

These recipes are for treats only and should not replace your dog’s regular meal plans. Always check with your vet about any major changes to your dog’s diet.

1. Heat oven to 350 F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Peel and dice ½ pound sweet potatoes and bring cubes to boil in water in saucepan.

3. Drain sweet potatoes and allow to cool. Puree cubes in food processor, adding a little water, if necessary.

4. Combine 1¾ cups whole wheat flour and 1 tablespoon flaxseed meal in a large bowl.

5. Beat 1 egg and set aside 1 tablespoon.

6. Add sweet potato puree and remaining beaten egg to dry ingredients.

Mix with a wooden spoon until dough forms.

7. Divide dough into 16-20 even sections. Roll each section into a 10-inch rope (about the thickness of a pencil).

8. To form pretzels, hold one end of rope in each hand and form a U-shape. Cross the ends over each other twice. Then lift the ends across to the bottom of the U-shape; press to seal.

9. Place the pretzels on the lined baking sheet. Using pastry brush, brush the remaining beaten egg lightly on tops of pretzels. Bake pretzels for 25 minutes or until golden brown. Cool and serve.

NOTES: For dogs with allergies to whole wheat flour, substitute almond or coconut flour.

Recipe from Serena Faber Nelson

52 MAY/JUNE 2017

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DESTINATION

From quirky waterside neighborhoods to swanky craft cocktail bars with sweeping city views, you’ll find a little of everything in this ever-changing city.

STORY + PHOTOGRAPHY MAGGY LEHMICKE

LONG WEEKEND DAY 1 Make your way to South Lake Union for a delicious, locally sourced breakfast at Portage Bay Café. Whether you’re craving Eggs Benedict or a vegetable hash, this is the place to get your fix.

Just make sure you arrive early; doors open at 7:30 a.m., and tables fill quickly.

If the weather looks promising, rent a paddle board on Lake Union for a couple of hours.

Paddle to Gas Works Park, the site of the former Seattle Gas Light Company gasification plant, which is now a 19-acre public park on the north end of Lake Union.

Seattle is a vibrant, eclectic mix of rocky beaches, hipster coffeehouses, majestic mountains and some of the best craft cocktails in the Pacific Northwest. Here’s an insider’s guide to must-see neighborhoods, favorite foodie haunts and some of the best views of the Pacific Northwest, whether you’re visiting for three perfect days or one glorious week.

Armchair travelers are welcome, too!

In the afternoon, explore Seattle’s downtown with an extended stop at Pike Place Market with its sweeping views of the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound. The oldest continuously operated public farmers market in the United States, it’s known for its fish throwers and flower vendors. It’s also a great place to pick up souvenirs or small gifts for friends and family.

If you want to see the original Starbucks, it’s right across the street. But don’t wait in line for a drink; visit the Starbucks Roastery in Capitol Hill instead, also known as the Willy Wonka Factory of Coffee. Don’t leave the market without a stop at the infamous gum wall in Post Alley.

Spend your evening exploring Seattle’s scenic waterfront, which includes everything from brewpubs to oyster houses. Hang out until sunset and ride the Ferris wheel for a spectacular view.

If you’re looking for an exclusive culinary experience, hike back up to Post Alley for dinner at The Pink Door. The restaurant is marked with just that – a pink door. Inside, you’ll find burlesque-style décor and a terrace with remarkable views of Elliott Bay.

54 MAY/JUNE 2017

DAY 2 Head to Capitol Hill to experience a neighborhood that is quintessentially Seattle. Grab a bite to eat at Oddfellows Café + Bar. It’s known for brunch options ranging from baked eggs to brioche French toast. When you’ve had your fill, check out The Elliott Bay Book Company next door. A reader’s haven, the independent bookseller is legendary for its incredible selection of titles and Seattle’s first bookstore cafe.

For a midday stroll, head to the Washington Park Arboretum, a hidden gem on the shores of Lake Washington. The arboretum offers 230 acres of diverse plant species, many of which can’t be found anywhere else in the Northwest.

Head back to Capitol Hill to explore Melrose Market. This quaint brick building is full of local businesses. Stop by the intimate flower shop Marigold & Mint for a handpicked bouquet and explore Butter Home’s gifts and home goods. If you’re in the mood, grab a drink at Bar Ferdinand or some grub at Sitka & Spruce.

For a memorable fine dining experience, make a reservation at Terra Plata (or try your luck as a walk-in). The Spanish-inspired dishes are crafted by local growers and artisan producers, embracing the “earth to plate” concept. If the weather is nice, sit on the patio amid the edible garden.

A day in Capitol Hill isn’t complete without experiencing the cocktail bar scene. Liberty, Tavern Law, Revolver Bar and Witness are some of the hipster-cool spots you won’t want to miss. If you’re a fan of Prohibition-style drinks, reserve a spot at The Needle and Thread, a speakeasy that’s only accessible through a bank vault door.

Unicorn Bar is a whimsical watering hole serving carnival food and creative cocktails.

DAY 3 Kick off your morning with a drive to West Seattle, where the eclectic mix of cafés and boutiques can easily keep you busy for a couple of hours. Swing by Bakery Nouveau for its famous double-baked almond croissants and a few macaroons to go.

Drive west to Alki, where the carefree beach-town vibe is accompanied by miles of sandy coastline. Stroll Alki Beach’s pedestrian walkway and take in unparalleled views of the Seattle skyline. The neighborhood is loaded with indie boutiques, bars and restaurants.

When you’ve had your fill of Alki’s seaside charm, head for Fremont in Seattle’s North End. This quirky waterside neighborhood near the University District is most famous for the Fremont Troll statue that resides under the Aurora Bridge. Be sure to snap a couple of photos with it while you’re there.

Next stop is Ballard, a foodie hot spot full of nautical charm. It’s very closely tied to its Scandinavian roots, which you can learn about at the Nordic Heritage Museum.

Stroll Market Street’s diverse collection of locally owned shops and boutiques. For dinner, make your way to Brimmer & Heeltap, an impeccably designed restaurant and bar with contemporary Korean fusion cuisine.

Grab a seat inside or reserve a spot in the garden. Make sure you take time to admire the menu wall before you go.

GOOD TO KNOW • Dry coastal weather makes late June to early September an ideal time to visit.

Winter and spring tend to be cloudy and wet.

• Alaska Airlines offers daily nonstop service from Omaha’s Eppley Airfield to the Emerald City of the Pacific Northwest. Flight time: 3 hours, 14 minutes.

• Seattle is a popular departure point for Alaska cruises and a gateway to Asia.

If you’re looking for something more characteristically Seattle, grab a bite at The Walrus and the Carpenter. Inspired by the Lewis Carroll poem, this oyster bar is the perfect place to try some Seattle seafood alongside specialty cocktails.

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EXTENDED STAY Some of Washington’s greatest treasures require journeys outside Seattle’s city limits.

THE SAN JUAN ISLANDS – Though the rocky coastline and moderate temperatures may not be what you usually associate with island life, the San Juan Islands might be Washington’s greatest secret. Take a ferry to Friday Harbor, the charming seaside town on San Juan Island, where you can explore local bookstores, shops and ice cream joints. For hiking and sea kayaking, head over to Orcas Island, home to Mount Constitution, the tallest mountain in the San Juans. Orcas is the perfect place for spectacular photos of Puget Sound and surrounding islands.

PORTLAND – Just a bit more than three hours from Seattle, Portland is quickly becoming one of the trendiest cities in the country. Spend the day strolling the Pearl District, a shopping hot spot, or venture outside the city.

To explore like a local, rent one of the orange bikes.

OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK – Half the fun of visiting Olympic National Park is driving there. Not only is the Olympic Peninsula home to one of the largest temperate rainforests in the world, it also features some of the most charming coastal towns around. Stop in Port Townsend on your way to Port Angeles, then continue on to Neah Bay, the westernmost point of the United States. If you have extra time (and camping gear), head south to the Hoh Rain Forest, an untouched, moss-covered masterpiece in the heart of the Olympics.

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A WEEK OR MORE If you’ve always dreamed of driving down Highway 101, this is your chance. Notable stops between Seattle and San Francisco (or even Los Angeles): • Astoria, Oregon • Cannon Beach, Oregon • Coos Bay, Oregon • Redwood National and State Parks, California • Lost Coast, California • Humboldt Redwoods State Park (and the Shrine Drive-Thru Tree), California • Mendocino, California

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THE HIDDEN PANTRY

A man, a vegetable, a love story RECIPES + PHOTOGRAPHY CHAD LEBO

I

f “Big Cabbage” ever needs a chief lobbyist, it could hardly do better than Cato the Elder (notwithstanding the small matter of his death in 149 BC).

This Roman general, senator and historian loved the cruciferous vegetable the way some people love their firstborn and counted cabbage as a cure for everything from colic to constipation and drunkenness to deafness.

In his 160 BC bestseller of Latin prose, “De Agri Cultura,” he decries, “It is the cabbage which surpasses all other vegetables.” I don’t know if I would go that far, but it is awfully good, high in fiber and versatile. Chop it. Slice it. Peel it. Shred it.

Enjoy it fermented, fried, braised, roasted or raw.

The recipes here are versions of dishes I enjoyed in my youth in German-centric Pennsylvania and as an adult in Madagascar and Paris. As the grandson of a horse-and-buggy Mennonite in central Pennsylvania, where the Kmart had a hitching post, I can tell you that cabbage was a part of a lot of menus. The last time I was home, I enjoyed it as a Thursday night café special stuffed in a pig stomach with potatoes and sausage, and roasted until akin to a crunchy, savory football. I skip the stomach and instead pair it with red peppers as a tangy and sweet cabbage slaw. The classic Amish-Mennonite dish uses sugar instead of honey and has no hot sauce.

I was lucky enough to ride my wife’s research coattails as she studied plants at the national herbarium in Paris. We were there

two times a year for six-week stretches for a few years. Since I didn’t have a work visa, I fully embraced the life of Riley (perhaps, Pierre) and spent a few hours a day roaming the streets in a personal quest to find the best flan in Paris. And if one is getting a slice of flan anyway, why not pick up a savory tart as well?

My cabbage-and-apple tart uses a classic French crust with a boost of rosemary. It is neither savory nor sweet, but rather hovers somewhere delectably in between.

Cabbage was certainly not uncommon in Madagascar especially as the culture, language and cuisine are more Southeast Asian than African. Pickles are in no way unique to the Greathe Red Island, but there is one place in the central highlands that is

famous for a long row of wooden shacks held together with bent nails and hope.

Inside each is a woman pan-roasting skinny smoked sausages. You get a succulent sausage served in an admittedly stale Madagascar baguette. Then you get to browse the collection of pickles for toppings, jar after jar and none of them cucumbers. A personal favorite: thin-cut carrots pickled with ginger. In a waste-not-want-not twist, my pickles use the hard cabbage hearts but still feature ginger. Play around to make each recipe your own. Or try lobbyist Cato’s “hock of a ham ... add two cabbage leaves, a shoot of fern, a bit of the mercury-plant ... one scorpion and six snails.”

Good luck, though; scorpions aren’t really in season yet. (continued on page 60)

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SALT & MUSTARD CRUSTED PORK SANDWICH WITH CABBAGE PEPPER SLAW

Makes 4-6 servings

This slaw is a topping, but it works well as a side on its own. Likewise, the salt-and-mustard crust pairs well with pork, but can also be used with chicken, beef and even fish.

Cabbage Pepper Slaw 1. Cut ¼ of a large head of cabbage into fine slices. Cut large red pepper into same fine slices.

2. Mix dressing for slaw of ½ cup apple cider vinegar, ¼ cup honey, 1½ teaspoons hot sauce and ½ teaspoon kosher salt.

3. In saucepan, heat cabbage, pepper and dressing over medium heat for about 5 minutes until cabbage wilts.

4. Cool in fridge for at least 30 minutes.

5. Mix in 1 teaspoon celery seeds.

Salt & Mustard Crusted Pork 1. Heat oven or grill to 425 F. 2. Heavily coat a 2-4 pound pork loin roast with a favorite whole grain or strong mustard. Only coat the top and the long sides (leave the bottom and the ends uncoated).

3. Measure out 1 tablespoon kosher salt for each pound of meat. Sprinkle equally over all the mustard (again do not coat the bottom or ends).

4. Roast loin at 425 F for 25-35 minutes until internal temperature reaches 130 F. 5. Remove from heat, and allow to rest for 10 minutes and slice thinly.

Sandwich 1. Cut a soft roll or bun in half. Spread mustard on bottom half and mayonnaise on upper half.

2. Layer thin slices of pork, and top with a generous helping of slaw.

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GINGER-PICKLED CABBAGE HEARTS

Makes 1 pint pickles

When cutting up cabbage, don’t be too hasty to compost those cores. The hearts make excellent crunchy pickles.

This same brine can be used to pickle cucumbers, turnips, carrots, fennel, etc. It’s best to use cabbage hearts cut out of whole heads that have been quartered. Each quarter will make 1 pickle. (Hearts cut from half heads can be too thick and tough.) You’ll have enough brine to pickle hearts from up to 4-6 heads.

Let your Hardware Show Your Style

1. Scrub ginger root and cut into long slices, ½ to 1 cup depending on taste.

2. Make a brine of 1 cup white vinegar, 1 cup apple cider vinegar, 1 cup white sugar, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 cinnamon stick, 1 piece star anise, ½ teaspoon kosher salt and an optional 1 teaspoon caraway seeds.

3. Heat brine over medium heat until sugar is dissolved.

4. Add cabbage hearts and ginger, and simmer in brine for 5 minutes until hearts have slightly softened.

5. Pack the hearts, ginger, cinnamon and anise in a jar and cover with brine.

6. Refrigerate for at least a day, and store in refrigerator for up to six months.

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SAVORY CABBAGE AND APPLE TART WITH ROSEMARY

Makes 8 servings

This savory tart still has a touch of sweetness from the apples, and it is just as at home on a brunch table as an appetizer plate. And for those who don’t like a lot of sweetness, it is a fine dessert dusted with a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg.

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Cabbage and Apple Filling 1. Chop Ÿ of a large head of cabbage into ½-inch pieces.

2. Cut 3 unpeeled medium apples into ½-inch cubes.

3. Reserve a few slices of apple and cabbage to top the tart later.

4. Melt 4 tablespoons unsalted butter and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper in a large saucepan. Add cabbage and apples and sautĂŠ over medium-high heat until lightly browned.

5. Add ½ cup water and simmer and reduce until cabbage and apples are soft and very little liquid remains. The mixture will be chunky (not saucelike).

Crust 1. Heat oven to 400 F. 2. In saucepan, melt 5 tablespoons unsalted butter and add 3 tablespoons water, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon white sugar, ½ teaspoon finely minced rosemary and a pinch of salt.

3. Add 1 cup all-purpose flour and stir with spatula until lightly browned and ball of dough pulls away from sides, 1-2 minutes.

4. Use fingers to spread dough on baking sheet into a rectangle a little less than ½-inch thick.

5. Bake in 400 F oven for 15 minutes. Crust will be golden, but still a little soft.

6. Let crust cool for 2-3 minutes before assembling and finishing tart.

Tart 1. Spread 1/3 cup sour cream over surface of crust.

2. Layer on the cabbage and apple mixture.

3. Arrange cabbage and apple slices on top for artful look.

4. Bake at 350 F for 5 minutes and then broil on low for 2-3 minutes to brown the top.

5. Serve with a sprig of rosemary.

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END NOTE

PHOTO: HEATHER & JAMESON

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