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Good Giving 53 ways to embrace this holiday season

Moccasins

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november - december 2012

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and Earthkeepers are trademarks of TBL Licensing LLC or its affiliates. Š 2012 TBL Licenisng LLC. All rights reserved.

Timberland,

The EarthkeepersÂŽ Apley boots and fitted leather jacket. The boots are 100% waterproof with a recycled PET lining.

The jacket is constructed using the highest quality leather. Traditional craft.

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See the collection at womens.timberland.com

Available at timberland.com

breathe magazine

table of contents

editor in chief

features

Marissa Hermanson marissa@readbreathe.com

8 The Old & New

contributing writers Cara Kelly Mary Ellen LaFreniere Colleen Oakley Taylor Troxell Amelia Walton

Patricia Thompson’s handmade moccasins

17 Homemade Holiday Do-it-yourself gifts, decorations and drinks

copy editor Beth Waldman

22 Embrace the Yurt

art director Megan Jordan

From primary residences to glamping getaways

senior designer Amanda Powers

associate designer Lauren Walker

intern Meredith Clapp

20

25 Holiday Recipes Tapas-Style

Finger food for gatherings with family and friends

contributing photographers Amanda Powers Megan Jordan

IT director Craig Snodgrass

digital media coordinator Chase Lyne

publisher Charles Leonard charles@readbreathe.com

president Blake DeMaso blake@readbreathe.com

account executives Dusty Allison: dusty@readbreathe.com Martha Evans: martha@readbreathe.com Leah Woody: leah@readbreathe.com Nick Noe: nick@readbreathe.com Amy Allison: amy@readbreathe.com

business manager

25

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Melissa Gessler

departments

distribution manager Chuck Grigsby chuck@readbreathe.com

WIN!

contact us

go to page 12 for details!

116 West Jefferson Street Charlottesville, VA 22902 434.817.2755 56 College Street, Suite 303 Asheville, NC 28801 828.225.0868 © 2012 Summit Publishing, LLC. To carry Breathe in your store call 434.817.2755.

cover Amanda Powers ©Breathe Magazine, readbreathe.com

8

5 Beauty Pomegranate skin care

28 Travel Old Town Alexandria, Va.

7 Books For the coffee table

30 Health 10 simple holiday tips

12 Good GIVING Guide November-December 2012

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beauty

Color Me Pomegranate This winter super fruit isn’t just good enough to eat — it’s perfect for your skin care routine, too.

Scientists have long touted adding pomegranate to your diet as a powerful preventative for certain types of cancer. But those same antioxidants that do a body good can work wonders on your skin as well.

“Pomegranates may be the world’s most prolific source of polyphenols, which can help prevent premature aging by defending skin from daily free radical assault and helping to stimulate healthy cell function,” says Dr. Howard Murad, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Murad Skincare. In other words: They fight wrinkles fast.

To reap the benefits this winter, snack on pomegranate seeds and stock up on these all-natural beauty products. — Colleen Oakley

Did You Know?

Giveaway!

Win a Vitabath Pomegranate & Blood Orange Body Wash and Fragrance Mist. Enter at readbreathe.com/ contests-and-giveaways.

Want to pick the perfect pomegranate? Look for ones with hard, vibrantly colored skin, and then weigh them in your hand. The heavier ones produce more juice.

PRODUCTS WE'RE LOVING Archipelago Botanicals Pomegranate Sugar Scrub, $35, zappos.com

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books

For the Coffee Table — meredith clapp

coming home Rizzoli New York

In this Southern architecture coffee table book, authors James Lowell Strickland and Susan Sully provide a glimpse into the philosophy of the prestigious Historical Concepts architecture firm through insightful stories on each home’s unique flavor with expansive, glossy photos that will make you crave your own slice of Southern paradise — the only problem is deciding what style to choose for your dream home. According to the architects at Historical Concepts, there is no such thing as the “quintessential Southern home,” because despite the unifying architectural influence of Ancient Greece and Rome, these homes span nearly two centuries of varied and constantly evolving style.

This book offers a detailed look at houses ranging from plantation homes of the Greek Revival style in Georgia to rustic log cabins constructed from reclaimed barn wood in South Carolina. It even includes a home constructed in Bridgehampton, N.Y., because the “thrifty” nature of the farmers and whalers established a style of simplicity and economical use of space that influenced aspects of Southern architecture.

However, there are a few characteristics that are found in many Southern homes: metal roofs, wrap-around porches and plentiful windows. These traits are common because the primary goal was to beat the heat in the dog days of summer. The authors point out that these solutions shaped our impression of what it means to be Southern — listening to the rain patter on a tin roof, sipping sweet tea on the front porch in a rocking chair and feeling the warm breeze from an open window.

The homes in this book reflect the times of the past, which Historical Concepts painstakingly recreates with original materials and a keen sense of history and the area’s idiosyncratic culture. Their challenge is to create something new that feels like it’s existed for a long time, and the firm does this by embracing imperfections and the individuality of the area.

They call this “generational architecture” — keeping the soul of the house to give a sense of belonging, while adding modern touches for contemporary living.

The Appalachian Trail Rizzoli new york

Enter to win these coffee table books at readbreathe.com

Published in association with the Appalachian Trail Conservancy for its 75th anniversary, "The Appalachian Trail" provides a dazzling collection of photos, maps and original documents that piece together the history of the iconic footpath. In the foreward by Bill Bryson, he says that the trail is more than a path—it’s a living museum, a time machine, a community, and most of all, a life-changing experience for anyone who attempts the journey. In this rich book graced with more than 300 images, it is clear that the beauty of the trail speaks for itself. With a comprehensive history of the creation of the trail and its evolution, "The Appalachian Trail" highlights the enduring commitment to the original philosophy of conservation and appreciation of nature, despite radical changes in American society and technology over the past decades.

The second half of the book is dedicated to large, stunning photos of the landscapes of each state on the trail, starting in Maine and winding through the varied terrain to Georgia, providing a glimpse of the unique wonders hikers experience while on the trail.

A Rich Spot of Earth: Thomas Jefferson’s Revolutionary Garden at Monticello Yale university press

With the boom of the local food movement, Thomas Jefferson’s philosophy on fresh produce is more relevant than ever. We can learn a lot from the nation’s “First Foodie,” and in "A Rich Spot of Earth: Thomas Jefferson’s Revolutionary Garden at Monticello" author and Director of Garden and Grounds of Monticello Peter J. Hatch maps the history and evolution of Thomas Jefferson’s spectacular garden. Divided into two parts, Hatch first leads the reader through the diverse history of the garden to the restoration he oversaw beginning in 1976. Then in Part II, he provides a detailed catalogue of the vegetables Jefferson planted and how they were cultivated. Through research of Jefferson’s diaries and maps, Hatch highlights the revolutionary aspects of the garden. Influenced by French cuisine and the experimental technologies of the time, Jefferson broke with the Old World tradition of manicured, fussy gardens and established an “international” style of gardening. Hatch characterizes it as the “Ellis Island” of gardens because it introduced about 330 varieties and 99 species of plants, which spread around the nation thanks to his love of sharing seeds with neighbors and friends. With more than 200 color illustrations, Hatch’s detailed tour though the history of the garden at Monticello creates a bridge between the past and present, demonstrating the impact of Jefferson’s philosophy on the way we live and eat today.

November-December 2012

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SUNbright originial moccasins $425, etsy.com/shop/sunbrightoriginals

Old�New

moccasins by marissa Hermanson

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atricia Thompson’s two daughters took their first small stumbling steps in handmade moccasins that she crafted out of hide and sewed herself. Now, a decade later, she is teaching the craft to her daughters and is selling her moccasins to clients ranging from Native Americans here in the U.S. to people overseas who want a stylish and comfortable pair of shoes. other Styles we love Limited Edition Thunderbird II; $40, Patricia picked up an interest in moccasins more than a minnetonkamoccasin.com. Woodland decade ago when she lived in New Mexico; and since moving Deerskin Moccasins (top right); $150, to Atlanta about 10 years ago, she started crafting moccasins rustedantlerdesigns.com from deer and cow hides and doing the intricate beadwork by hand. use really, really sharp needles and imitation “I started making moccasins for my girls sinew that has a stretchy property.” when they were first learning to walk. They “The fun thing for me is learning the symbols were a cool and super-comfortable alternative and all the meanings, and all the intricacies for all Each pair of to regular boring shoes, and all our friends the different tribes,” Patricia says. “All the tribes moccasins I make wanted some too, so I started making them for have different styles. Near the Great Lakes, you seems to have a everyone,” she says. see more floral patterns, and that’s because they Patricia now sells her moccasins on her were inspired by the French settlers.” story — even if website designyourownmoccasins.com, and on Patricia’s clients come from a range of Native it’s just a special etsy.com (under the name Sunbright Originals) American tribes. She made moccasins for a for $425 to $525 for a fully beaded pair, $250 gift — and I try Seminole wedding and created a patchwork for a partially beaded pair, and $99 for leather pattern that was true to traditional tribal design. to weave a part of hide with no beading. She makes fully beaded Patricia also gets a lot of requests for Cherokee that story into the moccasins for kids for about $200. designs.

The price may seem steep compared to the beadwork using “For one pair, I did different flowers that were mass-produced moccasins you can pick up at going in different directions to symbolize how the colors, symbols and the mall these days, but the price goes handCherokee people were culturally and physically meanings. in-hand with the amount of meticulous detail split by the Trail of Tears,” she says. “Some stayed and dexterity that Patricia puts into each pair here, and they are joined by same root. There’s still of shoes. It takes her 40 hours to make a pair of a story in the shoes.” moccasins with complex designs and intricate beading covering If you look at traditional moccasins in a museum, some are the entirety of the shoes. purely decorative while others have some sort of meaning.

Patricia buys full deer or cow hides and after her clients send Children’s moccasins have snake symbols that are supposed to her their measurements she cuts the hide so the moccasins will protect children from being bitten by snakes, while other pairs fit them exactly. She comes up with a bead design, listening to tell tribal stories. what kind of symbols, colors and story the client wants, and Patricia incorporates the tradition of storytelling into her goes from there. shoes as well. “When making the designs, I like to ask people if It takes her only a few hours to make the leather moccasin, there is anything important to them, an event that they want knitting together the hide with an artificial sinew, glover’s to describe.” needle and pliers to help her pull the needle through the She developed an interest in native studies and art from tough leather. Real sinew is what holds muscle fibers to bones her moccasin making venture and now teaches classes in and is what the Native Americans originally used for sewing Native American studies at Mablehouse Arts Center and at moccasins. “That’s how they would sew their moccasins — Play Music and Art in Canton, Ga. She also goes to schools in using animal tendons,” she says. “In modern times we usually the area, educating kids on the symbols and culture of Native Americans. “To me, making moccasins is a fascinating art form, and I am especially interested in the traditional bead embroidery techniques and symbolism used by the different tribes of North America.”

Some of her clients are Native Americans who have lost touch with their cultural roots, and she has helped them reconnect to their ancestry with her moccasins. “Over the past several years, I have begun to see my art as a way of helping people and as a way of preserving culture and traditional art forms,” she says.

“There was a Cherokee lady who asked me to make her a pair of traditional beaded moccasins to get ready for her first powwow,” she says. “She had been removed from her home as a child and knew little about her culture, so this was a way to reconnect.”

“Each pair of moccasins I make seems to have a story — even if it’s just a special gift — and I try to weave a part of that story into the beadwork using colors, symbols and meanings.

November-December 2012

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GOOD GIVING GUIDE

KITCHEN PRODUCTS

Sheesham Ice Bucket anthropologie.com, $198

Enamelware Tumbler shopterrain.com, $14

Joseph Joseph + Morph’s Double Dish aplusrstore.com, $18

Windmuehlen Carbon Steel Chef's Knife kaufmann-mercantile.com, $245

Jorg Boner’s Wogg 50 Chair wogg.ch

Wood cocktail/tapas fork aplusrstore.com, set of 4 for $10

Gatsby Pitcher crateandbarrel.com, $45

Carolina Plantation Gold Rice carolinaplantationrice.com, $9.32

Chipper & Sprite Serving Set anthropologie.com, $36

Le Creuset Reversible Griddle/ Grill lecreuset.com, $180 10

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R E L AY R E A DY

Chefs do the prep, you get the credit.

RELAYFOODS.COM/READY Seasonal meal kits bring chefs’ signature gourmet meals to the comfort of your own dining room.

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GOOD GIVING GUIDE

Adventure seekers Holga 35mm Camera urbanoutfitters.com, $48

SIGG Active Top mysigg.com, .75L $28.99

Schwinn Debutante schwinn.com, $550 Treadlite 16 Backpack columbia.com, $115

Magnesium Fire Starter kaufmann-mercantile.com, $36

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HERO3: Silver Edition gopro.com, $299

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Patagonia Infant Down Sweater Bunting patagonia.com, $139

Look for this package and check readbreathe.com during the months of November and December for your chance to win these great products!

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GOOD GIVING GUIDE

A few of our favorite things

Holiday cards, giftwrap and paper goods from our favorite boutique stationary makers across the Southeast.

Atlanta, Ga. redbirdink.com

Red Bird Ink Birch Forest Letterpress art print, $20. Birches Stationary, set of 6 letterpress flat cards and envelopes, $18. Birches Coasters, set of 4 letterpress coasters, $10.

by Julia B. Farill

Cary, N.C. witandwhistle.com

Wit & Whistle

by Amanda Wright

Happy Hoolidays Card, individually $4; set of 6, $13.50; set of 12, $24. Rudolph Card, individually $4; set of 6, $13.50; set of 12, $24. 3D Happy Holidays Card, individually $5; set of 6, $16.50; set of 12, $30.

Winter Park, Fla. riflepaperco.com

Rifle Paper Co.

by Nathan and Anna Bond

Wrapping paper, $5 per sheet.

Happy Holiday Postcards, individually $4.50; pack of 10, $10. Peace on Earth Ornament Card, set of 6, $18.

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Homemade

holiday

4 do-it-yourself projects for season's greetings

November-December 2012

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Wreath 1. Roll out a piece of wire slightly longer than the span of your arms.

2. Use your hands to form a loop slightly larger than a CD. This will be the center of your wreath.

3. Take the wire around the loop two times so you have three layers of wire and some excess on the end.

Use the excess to make a small loop for hanging the wreath, and if you have excess wire, wrap it around the form you’ve created for extra re-enforcement.

4. Choose three twigs approximately 6 inches long and hold them against the wire form in your left hand with the branchy ends pointing to the right.

Garland & Wreath

by Mary Ellen LaFreniere of Irvington Spring Farm

Craft store supplies 1 can of white primer spray paint 1 can of gold spray paint 1 spool of 24-gauge floral wire nails, for hanging wreath and garland ribbon (whatever you fancy) burlap (garland size available at craft stores) Nature supplies This list is what we used, but you can substitute whatever you like. rosemary viburnum berries feathers Sticks, twigs and branches ranging from 6 inches to 2½ feet long (Choose branches with knobby nodes and gnarly bark).

5. Hold the wire (still attached to the roll) in your right hand and wrap it around the twigs and the wire form several times, until they feel secure.

6. Repeat steps 2 and 3 four more times, until the wire form is covered with twigs. It should be a total of five groups of sticks, so you have five intersection points on your wreath where you attach wire.

7. Find your loop for hanging and hold up your wreath. If there are areas where you want to add more twigs, do it now by wiring them on.

8. Spray paint both sides of the wreath with a white primer. (Drying time varies depending on the paint brand you use, but 5 minutes is usually ample time.

Some dry in 1 minute.)

9. Spray paint both sides of the wreath with gold spray paint, or whatever color you desire. Let dry.

10. Wrap a ribbon around the wreath at 9 o’clock and tie a bow. Leave streamers long for a dramatic effect.

11. Select the materials you’ve gathered to adorn your wreath, and slip them in the loop of the bow.

12. Hang your wreath and enjoy!

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Handpainted Cocktail Napkins

by Amanda Powers, Megan Jordan and Marissa Hermanson

Garland 1. Measure the door or mantel the garland will adorn.

2. Gather 10 to 12 branchy twigs.

These should be longer than the ones used for the wreath.

3. Spray paint the branches. You can use one color, or mix gold and champagne for more visual interest.

Let dry.

4. Divide branches in half and create two bundles. Make sure some twigs are directed up and some down.

5. Wire them together in the middle.

6. Form a loop with the ends of the wires on the backside of the twig bundles where you will hang your garland.

7. After both bundles are wired, measure burlap or ribbon long enough to span the width of the door and have streamers on both sides.

(Streamers can fall all the way to the floor or just hang a few feet — your call.)

8. Find the center of the ribbon and measure half of the door’s width in both directions. Mark them with a pencil, fabric pen or paperclip.

9. Knot the ribbon or burlap around the bundles so that the bundles lie directly on your measurements.

10. Once both sides are tied, finagle the ends of the fabric so they hang at a 90-degree angle.

11. Hook the wire loops on nails on either side of your door. You’re finished!

Craft store supplies fabric paint/dye paint brushes painter’s tape water drop cloth or garbage bag linen fabric sewing machine thread pair of scissors DIRECTIONS 1. Begin by cutting the linen into the size of the item you’d like to make. For a cocktail napkin, a 6-inch square is a standard size, so cut your linen into 12½ inch by 6½ inch rectangles. Tape a heavy-duty garbage bag to your work surface before beginning. Place the linen down and use painter’s tape to create stripes. For a "plaid" effect, you’ll need to do the perpendicular stripes in separate phases.

2. To make the fabric paint, mix the color you’d like to use, and dilute it with two parts water. Dip your paint brush in the paint, then dab liquid off, leaving only a small amount coating the bristles. Lightly begin to brush the liquid on with even strokes until all stripes are covered.

Remove the tape and repeat to complete your selected pattern.

3. Let the paint dry for several hours.

4. Fold the rectangles in half (with the painted sides facing each other) and sew up the two sides.

5. Fold over a cuff on the open edge and press in place. Turn right side in.

6. Top stitch around the perimeter of the square. Add another row of stitching (zigzag this time) about an inch in from the edge.

7. Wash in cool water and press.

November-December 2012

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The holiday spirit Make a bottle of eggnog spike and give it to friends and family to add to their homemade eggnog.

Eggnog spike 2 1 1 2 1 2 7

cups Bourbon cup dark rum cup brandy vanilla beans nutmeg cinnamon sticks cloves

1. Mix alcohol together and add in spices. 2. Pour into decorative bottle and give as holiday gift.

3. Add to eggnog.

The bartenders at Charlottesville, Virginia’s restaurant and bar The Whiskey Jar share their winter warmer.

Eggnog

6 egg yolks 4-6 egg whites ½ cup sugar 2 cups whole milk 1 cup light rum ¾ cup brandy 2 cups whipping cream ¼ cup confectioners sugar pinch of salt nutmeg, for dusting 1. Beat 6 egg yolks until light. Beat in ½ cup sugar until thick. 2. Stir in 2 cups whole milk. 3. Stir in 1 cup light rum. Stir in ¾ cup brandy. 4.

Chill for three hours or overnight.

5. One hour before serving, pour into punch bowl. 6. Fold in 2 cups stiffly beaten whipping cream that has been whipped with ¼ cup confectioners sugar and 4 to 6 egg whites, which have been whipped to stiff peak with a little salt. 7. Pour back into a jar and chill for 1 hour before serving. Dust with nutmeg.

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Snow Globes

by Amanda Powers and Marissa Hermanson

Craft store supplies jars of choice plastic or ceramic figurines synthetic evergreen (we found ours at Michaels) spray paint epoxy distilled water glitter glycerin (available at drugstores) spray varnish heavy-duty garbage bag DIRECTIONS 1. If the jar lids are not in seasonal colors already, paint them with oilbased enamel paint.

2. Sand the inside of the lid until the surface is rough. With cleardrying epoxy, adhere the figurine to the inside of the lid, and let the epoxy dry.

3. Fill the jar almost to the top with distilled water; add a pinch of glitter and a dash of glycerin to keep the glitter from falling too quickly. Don't add too much, or the glitter will stick to the bottom of the jar when it's flipped. Screw on the lid tightly, being careful not to dislodge the figurine. Turn the jar over and back again — and let it snow.

Glittering Figurines 1. To customize the water globe, paint figurines with glue then sprinkle on glitter. Let them dry for 1 to 2 hours. Repeat until all surfaces are covered or until desired look achieved.

2. Spread large garbage bag out onto work surface (we recommend doing this part outside or in a wellventilated area) and place figurines on top.

3. Spray with varnish and allow to dry. Repeat three times. Allow to dry overnight before creating snow globe to ensure that the glitter does not shake off!

November-December 2012

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Embrace the

yurt The round dwellings, originating in Mongolia, are popping up across Appalachia — from primary residences to ‘glamping’ getaways.

by Marissa Hermanson

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urts are commonplace out West, but if you mention the word “yurt” in our neck of the woods you might get a quizzical eyebrow raise followed by a "whaaat?"

Recently, yurts have been gaining popularity across the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic. The round, material-covered tent structures are popping up throughout Appalachia as vacation rentals, primary dwellings and second-home getaways.

Yurts structures — circular shelters used by Turkish and Mongolian nomadic herders since the 13th century — were made of expandable lattice walls and felted coverings from sheep or yak wool. Yurt structures today are one of the latest crazes for housing — and, lucky for us, they cater to the modern lifestyle.

Nearly 35 years ago, the company Pacific Yurts, in Oregon, spearheaded the modern-day yurt that we see here in the U.S. The company manufactures yurts for residential and commercial clients — and, as of lately, more so for clients who are creating “glamping” (glamorous camping) getaway destinations. The popularity of yurts out West grew in the mid-90s, fueled by Oregon State Parks installing and marketing them throughout the area. For the past three decades, yurts have been popular across the West, and now are slowly making their migration eastward.

“Over the years, we have sold hundreds of yurts in the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic states for a variety of purposes — to families and individuals, as well as government and commercial customers,” says Pacific Yurt owner Alan Bair. “Interest in the region has been steadily increasing over the past 20 years.”

“I wanted to get ahead of that wave. It’s definitely coming this way,” says Melissa Little, owner of Sky Ridge Yurts in Bryson City, N.C., who launched her vacation yurt rentals this past year and has been booked solidly since opening. “Right after my husband died, I went to Alaska and drove back home. I watched as I came down through all the state and national parks — and could see the progression [of yurts] creeping over.”

Sharon Morley, of Blue Ridge Yurts in Floyd, Va., noticed the same trend. After living out West for a number of years and seeing yurts used for camping in state parks, she thought it would be great to see yurts out East. So, Sharon partnered up with longtime friend Kathy Anderson and started a yurt manufacturing company seven years ago, catering to clientele across the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic. Now, after their seventh year of business together, they have made and sold more than 100 yurts across the region.

Most of their clients order their largest yurt — the 30-footer, a 708-square-foot living space with 10-foot-tall walls — and use it as a home. Kathy and Sharon sell a yurt kit, which is just the shelter, but it can be customized with all the modern efficiencies of a home — walls, a lofted area, bathroom, kitchen, washer and dryer, central heat and air and a sprawling wooden deck. The customer is responsible for the interior — either hiring a contractor or assembling it themselves.

The lure of the yurt ranges from people wanting to decrease their footprint on the earth, avoid big mortgages or simply embrace their desire to unplug from society. Listening to the pitter-patter of the rain on the vinyl roof and hearing the wind rustle against the yurt’s Buy one! walls makes you feel close to Ready to go whole hog nature while still enjoying the and buy a yurt? Check out comforts of home. these manufacturers in Think yurts are groovy, but the Southeast: don’t know if you’re ready to dive into the craze? Rent one for the weekend at a place like Sky Ridge Yurts and see how you fair.

“People who want to build one come to see if they can live in it and see if they trip over each other,” Little says.

“They use my place to see if it is really feasible to go into a yurt.”

Blue Ridge Yurts, Floyd, Va. blueridgeyurts.com Buffalo Mountain Yurts, Dugspur, Va. buffalomtnyurts.com Laurel Nest Yurts, N.C. laurelnestyurts.com

Get your glamp on

We’ve rounded up our top yurt getaways in the region where you can unplug and embrace nature.

Shenandoah Crossing Gordonsville, Va. Situated on more than 1,000 acres of pastureland just beyond the Shenandoah Valley, rent a luxury yurt with all the comforts of home — four-post bed, flat-screen TV, kitchen and bathroom and central heat and air. One- and twobedroom yurts available.

They also include a large deck with outdoor kitchen.

Activities at Shenandoah Crossing include swimming, hiking, ghost tours and horse trail and carriage rides. bluegreenrentals.com

Wildwater Nantahala Outside Bryson City, N.C. Fifteen minutes outside Bryson City and on the edge of Great Smokey Mountain National Park, Wildwater’s yurt village sits on 25 acres of wilderness.

Their eight 16-foot yurts sleep up to four people per yurt. They include linens, refrigerator, coffee pot in cabin with separate cooking areas, bathhouse and hot tub. Yurts have a ceramic heater and ceiling fan.

Take a zipline canopy tour on Wildwater property, or sign up for a whitewater rafting adventure, scenic jeep trip or a package raft and rail or raft and jeep day trip. Cell and WiFi services are on the property, as well. wildwaterrafting.com/ nantahala

Sky Ridge Yurts Bryson City, N.C. Tucked away in the Smokies and near the Nantahala Gorge, Sky Ridge Yurts sits along a ridge with breathtaking mountain views. Sky Ridge’s yurts are the perfect vacation spot if you are looking to get away but not completely unplug. They have WiFi, flatscreen TVs and cable with

plush king- and queen-sized beds while also offering easy access to outdoor adventures — rafting and kayaking on the Nantahala, and hiking and ziplining.

They offer one 30-foot yurt and two 24-foot yurts with central heat and air, kitchens and bathrooms in the yurt. skyridgeyurts.com

Wildwater Chattooga Group Yurts Long Creek, S.C. For a more campy and rugged experience, stay at Wildwater Chattooga, a 30-minute drive from Clemson, S.C., and 15 minutes outside of Clayton, Ga. Their yurts are nestled in the woods and are steps from Wildwater Chattooga Adventure Center.

Wildwater’s five yurts range in size from 16 feet (sleeps four) to 30 feet (sleeps 10).

Be sure to bring your own sheets, pillows, blankets, towels and cooking supplies.

Bathrooms and kitchen aren’t in yurt, but are in separate common buildings.

Wildwater also has an outside grill, screened-in dining room and fire pit. wildwaterrafting.com/ chayurts

Georgia State Parks Cartersville, Jackson, and Winder, Ga. Three Georgia State Parks now offer camping yurts.

They feature a deck with picnic area and outdoor grill and fire ring, electricity, ceiling fans, small heater and sleep six. Bathhouses with hot showers are within walking distance. Be sure to bring sleeping bags and linens, as well as cooking supplies and a cooler. Fort Yargo State Park in Winder and High Falls State Park in Jackson each have six yurts, while Red Top Mountain State Park in Cartersville has one. gastateparks.org November-December 2012

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Holidays

tapas-style Finger food for this season’s gatherings with family and friends recipes by Taylor Troxell

Taylor's Favorite Sweet Potato Hand P ies

Cider Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Mini Meatloaves Butternut Jam and Goat Cheese Crostini

* Bonus Recipe: Go to read breathe.com for Taylor's Chicken Matzo Bites

Sweet Potato C ornbread Muffins 26

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Taylor’s Favorite Sweet Potato hand Pies 6 tbsp unsalted butter 3 cups frozen sweet potato ¾ cup light brown sugar ¼ cup chopped pecans 2 sheets puff pastry (7½ inches by 14½ inches) 1 egg, lightly beaten 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored and diced 1 tbsp sorghum molasses 1 tsp vanilla extract 1. Melt the butter in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Add sweet potatoes and apples. Cook, stirring occasionally for 8 to 10 minutes. Reduce heat to low.

Cider Glazed Brussels Sprouts serves 8 (double the recipe for entertaining) Apple Cider Glaze 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken stock 3/4 cup apple cider 2 tbsp sorghum molasses Combine ingredients in a small saucepan over medium heat. Simmer until reduced by a third. Season with salt to taste.

Brussels Sprouts 1 lb brussels sprouts, woody ends trimmed 4 tbsp clarified butter cider glaze salt and pepper 1. Preheat oven to 425 F. 2. Heat clarified butter in cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and sauté brussel sprouts, about 2 to 4 minutes.

3. Place cast iron skillet in the preheated oven and roast for 10 minutes, allowing the tops of the sprouts to brown and become tender.

4. Using an oven mitt, remove cast iron skillet from oven and drizzle with cider glaze. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

We appreciate you! Special thanks to Whole Foods Market in Charlottesville for providing our food and cook Taylor Troxell for coming up with these delicious holiday recipes.

Inspired by Guy Savoy makes 12

2. Add the brown sugar, sorghum molasses and vanilla extract. Cover skillet and cook until sweet potato and apples are very soft, but not falling apart for 30 minutes. Set aside to cool. Stir in the pecans.

3. Preheat oven to 350 F. Roll out one sheet of puff pastry into a square on a lightly floured surface. Using a 2-inch cookie cutter ring cut out circles and set aside. Roll out remaining sheet of pastry into a square and repeat cutting process. (Or feel free to cut into squares and bake,

Mini meatloaves makes 24

1/2 lb 85/15 ground beef 1/2 lb ground pork or Italian sausage 1/2 lb ground veal 1/2 cup yellow onion, diced 1/2 tsp kosher salt 1/2 tsp cracked black pepper 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce 1 egg, beaten 3/4 cups milk 3 pieces of sourdough bread, crust removed and torn into small pieces olive oil for frying 1. In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients using hands, being sure that each ingredient is thoroughly combined. Try not to over-mix.

2. Roll the mixture into golf ball-sized balls and place them on a rimmed baking sheet, and refrigerate covered for 1 to 2 hours.

3. Preheat oven to 200 F. 4. In a large, high-sided skillet, add enough olive oil to fully coat bottom. Add meatballs and cook until browned; carefully turn with a metal spoon and brown the other side. When both sides are browned, place in oven to keep warm and finish cooking through (an internal temperature of 165 F is well done).

5. Add your favorite barbecue sauce or ketchup to the top.

You will need about a half cup for all the mini meatloaves.

and then after they cool cut them diagonally to create triangles.)

4. Put 1 to 2 tablespoons of the filling in the center of a pastry round. Dab a little water around the edge and top with another pastry ring, pressing down around the circle’s edge with the back of a fork. Repeat with remaining disks of pastry. Brush the pastries with beaten egg.

Bake until deep golden, 30 minutes or so. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Butternut Jam and Goat Cheese crostini makes 30

4 lb butternut squash 12 oz ​Oktoberfest Marzen ¼ cup honey 1 cup ​light brown sugar 1 ​lemon, juiced 1 tsp cinnamon ¼ tsp fresh ground nutmeg 2 tbsp maple syrup 2 organic baguettes goat cheese, enough for topping (we used Capriccho de Cabra) 1. Peel, seed and cut butternut squash into chunks. Place it in a large pot with beer, sugar and honey. Bring it to a boil, then turn it down to a simmer.

2. Add the spices and lemon juice and simmer until the squash is fork tender, about 30 minutes or so. Stir occasionally.

3. Once the squash is tender, remove it from the heat and add the maple syrup. Use an immersion blender to blend until mixture reaches a smooth puree. Return pot to low heat and bring the puree to a simmer. Simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring often.

4. Once the puree has thickened, remove it from the heat. Use the immersion blender again and blend until the puree is silky smooth. Be sure to scrape down the sides while you are blending.

5. Serve butternut jam on sliced baguette, topped with goat cheese.

Sweet Potato Cornbread Muffins makes 12

2 lbs frozen sweet potatoes olive oil, for drizzling sea salt and cracked pepper 1 lb prepared cornbread, cut into 1-inch cubes ½ lb thick cut, nitrate-free bacon, for crumbling 1 medium red onion, finely diced 1 celery rib, finely diced 2 garlic cloves, minced 1/4 cup chopped sage 2 tsp maple syrup 2 large eggs 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken stock 1. Place an oven rack in the upper third of the oven and preheat to 350 F. Arrange the sweet potato cubes on a large rimmed baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Roast for about 20 minutes, or until tender. Set aside to cool.

2. Turn the oven up to 375 F. Spread the corn bread cubes on a large baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, until toasted. Set aside until completely cooled.

3. In a medium-.sized skillet, crisp the bacon over medium heat. Remove bacon from pan and transfer to a paper towel– lined plate. Heat 3 tablespoons of the rendered bacon fat in the skillet. Add the red onion and cook over medium heat until the onions turn translucent (3 to 5 minutes). Add the chopped celery, garlic and sage. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the celery is softened (3 to 5 minutes). Stir in the bacon.

4. Transfer the roasted sweet potatoes to a food processor, add the maple syrup and puree until smooth. Season with salt, add the eggs and process until evenly combined. Add the chicken stock and process.

5. In a large bowl, combine the toasted corn bread with the sweet potato mixture and allow to stand for 5 minutes.

Stirring as little as possible, fold in onion-bacon mixture and 1 teaspoon of salt.

6. Generously butter a 12-cup muffin tin. Mound the cornbread and sweet potato stuffing in the prepared muffin cups and bake for about 40 minutes, or until browned on top and heated through.

November-December 2012

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photo courtesy visitalexandriava.com Credit: Erik Kralsvik

Travel

Alexandria, Virginia

t

Old Town and Del Ray neighborhoods’ small-town charm and vintage finds are within reach of the capitol — Cara Kelly

he quiet main streets of Alexandria’s Old Town and Del Ray neighborhoods can seem much further than five miles outside of the frenzy of downtown Washington, D.C. The suburb of the nation’s capitol is a quick trip across the Potomac River and can provide respite from the busloads of tourists who mob the National Mall and throngs of shoppers who make navigating the streets of Georgetown a challenge.

But the town is vibrant and charismatic enough to warrant a trip on its own, offering plenty in the way of dining and culture to while away a leisurely weekend.

History you can take home

Alexandria is home to several of the nation’s historic landmarks — including 4,200 buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries in Old Town alone — which makes it an obvious hot spot for antique shopping. Wander into the side yard of the John Douglas Brown House, a wood-paneled farmhouse built around 1775 that is said to be one of the best-preserved colonial houses in the area, and sort through a collection of furniture for a shabby-chic side table or chair.

For a wider selection, visit Potomac West Interiors and Antique Gallery and Not Too Shabby Antiques and Consignments on Mount Vernon Avenue in Del Ray, a small main street about a mile from the center of Old Town. The side-by-side stores offer a variety of lighting, rugs and china.

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pretty people vintage

Vintage and high-end consignment boutiques offer a nice counterbalance to the pricey shops and chain stores of M Street in Georgetown. Walk into Pretty People Vintage, housed in a row house on North Patrick Street, and peruse the collections of contemporary and vintage clothing.

Catch the shelf of pillbox hats and Jeanne Simmons fascinators in the back and the display of cowboy boots in the right hallway. Or, if you’re looking for a small splurge, look out for vintage wool coats with faux fur trim.

Head down King Street toward the water and take a right on Saint Asaph Street to find Mint Condition, where the consigned designer dresses live up to the name. Silk Kate Spade blouses and Diane von Fürstenburg shifts carry price tags at fractions of their original costs.

A little further down is Diva Boutique, a townhouse on South Pitt Street with three floors of gently worn designer and name-brand goods. Shoppers may stumble over fulllength Ralph Lauren gowns and Stuart Weitzman pumps or Banana Republic tops.

photo courtesy Alexandria Convention & Visitors Assoc.

What’s old is new again

top image: Grape + Bean second and third: Potomac West Interiors and Antique Gallery

Refuel

Avoid the Starbucks that speckle the city and drop in to Grape + Bean for a caffeine fix and a quick bite. The shop takes coffee seriously. Baristas are happy to guide patrons through bean and preparation choices. Take the time to sit and enjoy a cup of coffee and sandwich. The rosemary ham and gruyere and chicken salad sandwiches are substantial and delightfully savory.

For a lighter snack that perfectly highlights their extensive wine selection, try a cheese and charcuterie plate. Or, shop as the locals who come in for the wine bottles that line the narrow shop.

Venture over to Mount Vernon Avenue for an afternoon treat from The Dairy Godmother, the famous local custard stand that received a stamp of approval from the Obamas in 2008. The shop offers a traditional custom vanilla, as well as an ever-changing menu of seasonable flavors like pumpkin, khulfi and coffee chocolate chip.

For dinner, head down Mount Vernon Avenue to Fireflies for a laid-back meal of bugers and pizza. An eclectic mix of beers are always on tap, and most nights live entertainment keeps the energy high at the local hangout.

Specialty shops

Tucked in and around Alexandria are a number of specialty shops, including Olio on upper King Street and Cheestique on Mount Vernon Avenue. The tasting room at Olio has about 30 different olive oils and balsamic oils in stainless steel containers called “fusti,” which allow patrons to sample varieties like black truffle-infused olive oil, chipotle olive oil and white balsamic.

Once you have a bottle in hand — and maybe a red wine from Grape + Bean — check out Cheestiques’s extensive selection of cheeses from around the world. The shop has a number of imports, but also boasts a collection of American cheeses. Take your gourmet snacks down to Founders Park for a picnic overlooking the Potomac River or back home for a great reminder of your Virginia getaway.

Feast for the eyes

The region is also becoming a haven for visual artists. The Torpedo Factory Art Center is worthy of a slow-paced tour.

Construction of the building began in 1918, which housed the U.S. Naval Torpedo gallery until the end of WWII. Skip the tiny museum housed on the third floor to focus on the 82 working artist studios.

For more regional work, catch the show at Del Ray Artisans space, which features members’ works in periodic exhibits.

Grape + Bean

Check out these hot spots The Butcher’s Block Market Old Town 1600 King St. • 703-894-3440 braborestaurant.com The Tasting Room at Restaurant Eve 110 S. Pitt St. • 703-706-0450 restauranteve.com Virtue Feed & Grain 106 S. Union St. • 571-970-3669 virtuefeedandgrain.com American in Paris Fashion & Couture Inc. 1225 King St. • 703-519-8234 anamericaninparisoldtown.com The Shoe Hive 127 S. Fairfax St. • 703-548-7105 store.theshoehive.com Bishop Boutique 815-B King St. • 571-312-0042 bishopboutique.com November-December 2012

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health

Keeping the daze out of your holidays — Amelia Walton

We know the holidays tend to fill up a calendar faster than tweens at a Justin Bieber concert, so this year Breathe decided to give you 10 unexpected ways to keep your eyes on the prize and stay focused on what this time of year is really about. With these simple tips, you’ll be sure to have a twinkle in your eye all season long.

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The Attitude of Gratitude

Purge Party

This annual tradition can easily be a part of the holiday festivities. Put on your favorite tunes (if Christmas music is your thing, really crank it), pop a cork or make some hot chocolate, and dance the clutter away. You will love making the donation of old clothes and toys, and come Dec. 26, the whole family will be thankful for the extra space.

This is the most important tip on this list. If you feel your blood pressure rising at any point this season, take a moment and quickly think of five things you are intensely grateful for.

Suddenly that undercooked turkey won’t seem so tragic.

Wait in Line Wisely

Take that daydream and put a portion of it in action! Even something as simple as carrying around extra change for the Salvation Army buckets will put a little pep in your step; but knowing that your act of generosity lit up a child in need’s face this year will do more for you than any day at the spa could.

Movie Night

We all have our favorite holiday movies, so make a tradition out of slowing down for a night, piling up comforters and pillows on the floor, grabbing some eggnog and vegging out to the sweet sounds of Clark Griswold.

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Go Outside and Play

Nothing will make your cheeks glow like a stroll through the winter woods. Prioritize this time before a family get-together and we promise you’ll be ready to face Aunt Edna and her famous fruit cake with all the peace of a Zen master.

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Rather than impatiently tapping your toe, spend your time waiting in the inevitable holiday lines by fantasizing about what you would do if you had to give away a pile of money to someone in need. Not only will this little mental exercise put your day in perspective, but it will also keep you focused on the spirit of generosity this season — and have you leaving the store with a smile on your face.

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Bill Blass famously said, “When in doubt, wear red,” and there’s no better time to heed this advice.

Not only will you feel like a siren, but you will instantly look crisp. Bonus? This universally flattering color will bring out just the right amount of rosiness in your cheeks for your close-up under the mistletoe.

Ask one person how they’re doing, and really take the time to listen when they respond. This is a great way to remember to slow down during the busiest month of the year, and it’s also a way to let someone you love know you really care.

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Hang mistletoe. Seriously, do this.

Hang a little mistletoe in your house or apartment and enjoy the thrill of having to stop to kiss your sweetheart, or someone that might become your sweetheart, at an unexpected moment.

#firstworldproblems

This hash tag is a handy tool … if it could characterize anything you’re worrying about, promptly revisit our first tip. The happiest holidays are the ones that are celebrated for the abundance that we already have, not for all that we think we need or want. So, wear that attitude of gratitude with pride!

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