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Eventhough it’s been a few weeks since we “sprang forward,” I am still not on the new schedule. I am getting there, though, and would prefer it not to change back just when I am adjusted. May I please make a motion to keep this as the official time, since I believe it was the intention since creation? It took a couple weeks but I finally got the time corrected on the microwave and stove. Other items are self sufficient, except for my watch. I think I am one of the last few people with old-school watches you have to adjust yourself. I have a smart watch but I just like one you have to read, complete with a second hand!
April is quite the busy month for many of us with the celebration of both Passover and Easter this year, and let’s not forget the lovely Tax Day to which we all look forward. Our family also celebrates several birthdays this month. Buddy, AKA Trip, will be turning 62 and three short years from Medicare. He is already planning that hip replacement he has been looking forward to for years that our other birthday boy, son-in-law Tyler, will have the pleasure of doing! Our birthday boy star for April is our Miles man who will be turning three. We can’t wait to celebrate him!!! My brother-in-law Lloyd will be the first of four of us turning the big 60 this year and I look forward to turning 60 myself this June. Age is just a number and as long as it keeps going up, I am still alive and kicking!
There is so much to do and enjoy this season, and with more light, more warmth, new life and new hope, it is worth losing a little sleep over. Let’s just keep it this way!
- Margaret Monger, PUBLISHER
Boldly Personal
STORY BY TERRI GLAZER | DESIGN BY TARA FELICE INTERIORS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARAH VOIGT PHOTOGRAPHY
Designer
Tara Engelberg believes a home should make a statement about its owner. She designed every square inch of Anna Bishop’s East Memphis house to do just that.
“Anna is a smart, hard-working, awesome woman. The house needed to reflect female empowerment—a go-getter attitude—so we went bold in a lot of places,” says the owner of Tara Felice Interiors. That would be a 180-degree turn from the look the house had in 2021 when Bishop bought it. Previous owners had updated it, but the neutral, gray color palette that ran throughout said nothing about its new resident, a top agent with Crye-Leike Realtors.
Bishop says she decided to team up with Engelberg after seeing the work the designer
did at Hen House, an East Memphis restaurant and wine bar. “I told her I wanted something beautiful, like a retreat, so that when I come home I love being here,” Bishop says. She was happy to leave the artistic specifics to the professional. “I was a nurse for a long time before I became a realtor. I’m more math, science and business. That’s how my brain works.”
Engelberg stepped up to take the reins on the renovation; she believes that projects turn out best when clients develop a level of confidence that allows them to trust her choices. “When we start, I want to know their goals for their home’s overall look and feel and how they want to use the space, but most people don’t know exactly what their style is. I feel like I have a really good ability to read what clients want.”
Itdidn’t take long for Bishop to develop that degree of faith. “After we started working together, I knew it was going to be beautiful,” she recalls. “I loved everything she picked out so I wasn’t worried that she’d do something that I wouldn’t like.”
The initial bit of inspiration for this project came from a painting Bishop had bought at an estate sale before meeting Engelberg. Says the designer, “Its colorway set the tone for the house. The greens, the blues, the oranges; it all tells the color story. Everything else just kind of fell into line from there.”
That story’s first chapter opens in the entryway, where a saturated blue bathes the walls. Engelberg selected a sunburst motif and repeated it on the mirror and the ceiling light fixture intentionally to convey the sense of optimism and positivity Bishop exhibits in her life.
Blue hues continue into the dining room, but in a bit of an unexpected format. The room makes a big statement thanks to Martinique wallpaper, a classic from CW Stockwell since its introduction in 1942. The unexpected part? The paper’s blue colorway. “I wanted this room to be bold and amazing, and I like a grand-scale wallpaper in a smaller room. It makes it feel larger than life,” says Engelberg.
The dining room furnishings are an eclectic blend of vintage and contemporary. Engelberg had been holding onto a mid-century glam chandelier since she acquired it for her vignette in the ARTSMemphis Art by Design event back in 2019, waiting to find the perfect spot for it. The fixture, along with other patinated treasures, coexist with a colorful new commissioned painting by Charlie Bluett, an angular dining table and ten velvet and chrome chairs upholstered in a mouth-watering shade of green. Bishop counts them as favorites, saying, “If I could save only one thing in this house, it would be these chairs.”
Thecelebration of color continues in the office space that extends from the dining room. A chic lucite desk is surrounded by the joyful painting that inspired the home’s palette, patterned Roman shades and ottomans that introduce warm tones, and stylish storage for part of Bishop’s book collection. Below the desk sits another classic design element with an unconventional twist: a cowhide rug in brilliant blue.
Engelberg zhuzhed up the living room fireplace to create a focal point, adding a dramatic black mantel, an emerald tile surround and a brass screen. A soft abstract by artist Ed Nash adds to the interest. Deep greens, blues and brick reds in the furnishings play perfectly off the neutral sofa, console table and walls. Those white walls created a unique opportunity for the designer to bring in yet another out-of-the-ordinary addition. A pair of antique tapestries, sourced from one of the estate sales she loves to frequent, flank the TV. “We had this huge expanse of white walls and so much art already happening. I didn’t want to just do another canvas or another piece of art behind glass. I remembered these tapestries. We custom designed the frames with Garner Picture Framing. I wanted them to pop, to feel fresh and not heavy,” she says.
Theroom opens to the kitchen, an area that needed only a cosmetic refresh. Existing appliances and cabinets stayed, accessorized with new brass hardware. Glass-front wall cabinet doors now sport antiqued mirror panels that play up the dressy feel of the new Calcutta Gold marble countertops. The reworked backsplash of stylized white subway tile extends to the ceiling.
Engelberg also modernized the room’s lighting, adding brass sconces over the windows and replacing nondescript pendants above the island with brass and glass fixtures inspired by the Modernist movement of the 1920s.
“I love everything about my bedroom,” Bishop says, and it’s no wonder. Although it’s a study in how to mix vibrant color, pattern and texture, the space exudes a refined feel. Bold blue walls make a reprise here, as does another vintage brass and glass light fixture Engelberg found on 1stdibs.com. A channel-tufted white headboard projects a restful feel and serves as a visual anchor as it pops against the dark wall. The elegant backdrop shows off a grouping of textiles curated by the designer. She points out the antique bed scarf, found on a visit to Designers Guild in London. Shades from that fabric reappear in the orchid-colored drapes that line the room’s window.
Already outfitted in elegant Carrara marble, the attached bath only needed a bit of personalization to elevate its look. New hardware, lighting, mirrors, window treatments and art give the room a completely custom and decidedly feminine flair.
Alsoperfectly suited to its inhabitant is the home’s meditation room. Fashioned from one of two guest bedrooms, the spot is a tranquil space for Bishop to recharge, whether through meditating, practicing yoga, working out or relaxing with a good book. The earthy pink color, 36 Hours in Marrakesh by Backdrop Paint, gives the space a warm, almost glowing vibe. Engelberg outfitted the room with several mirrors to reflect light and to help it function as a studio when needed, and chose the furnishings with a world view in mind. A rope wall hanging created by a Mexican artisan hangs next to a pair of African fanner baskets. Textiles on the day bed’s pillows are a nod to South Asian design.
Bishop describes her wellness room as one of her favorite spots. That’s high praise, considering she also says she loves every inch of her home. And that she is grateful to Engelberg, first her designer and now a great friend, for helping make her home so beautiful and personalized. She adds, “When people walk in the house, always, they’re like, ‘This is so you. This house is absolutely your personality!’ I hear it all the time, that’s amazing.”
Lauren & Jack FAGAN
OCTOBER 19, 2024 | MEMPHIS, TN
PARENTS OF THE BRIDE: HEATHER AND ALLEN TETLETON
PARENTS OF THE GROOM: MELISSA AND SEAN FAGAN
REHEARSAL DINNER: THE MEMPHIAN HOTEL
WEDDING AND RECEPTION : THE BROOKS MUSEUM OF ART
EVENT PLANNER: LISA CHILDERS
FLORIST: KENNEDY NOEL FLORALS
PHOTOGRAPHER: MISHELLE NARO
CAKE: FROST BAKE SHOP
BAND: PARTY PLANET
WEDDING DRESS: MAGGIE LOUISE
Oxford, MS, Landscaping Camp Grand Finale
Honoring Jeff McManus: 25 Years of Transforming Ole Miss
STORY AND PHOTOS BY ROSIE VASSALLO
Two years ago, the organizers believed they’d hosted the final Oxford Landscaping Camp, but due to overwhelming demand, they decided to bring back the popular weekend event. Jeff McManus will take center stage next month for his final, unforgettable tour of the breathtaking Ole Miss campus. It promises to be a once-in-alifetime experience attendees won’t soon forget.
Spots are filling up fast for the highly anticipated Landscaping Camp, scheduled for May 23-24, hosted by the Oxford-Lafayette County Economic Development Foundation.
This year marks a major milestone for Jeff McManus, who is celebrating 25 years of excellence as the University of Mississippi’s director of landscape services and his retirement before embarking on a new chapter at the University of Texas. Over his distinguished career, McManus has transformed the Ole Miss campus into a nationally recognized masterpiece.
Understanding that the charm of a campus significantly impacts student enrollment, he and his team developed an award-winning system of beautification and landscape management that set Ole Miss apart on a national level.
Under his leadership, the university earned numerous prestigious accolades, including:
• “Mos t Beautiful Campus in the Nation” designations by The Princeton Review , Newsweek , and USA Today
• T wo Professional Grounds Maintenance Society Green Star Awards for Best Maintained University
• Mississippi Urban F orest Council’s Scenic Communities Award
McManus has been the keynote speaker at previous landscaping camps, drawing sold-out crowds year after year. His expertise, passion and engaging teaching style have attracted participants from across the country, including Texas, Tennessee, Arkansas, Georgia, Alabama, Louisiana, California, Kentucky, Florida, North Carolina and beyond.
MEET THIS YEAR’S SPEAKERS
This year’s Memorial Day Weekend camp will feature a diverse lineup of landscaping professionals, each offering valuable insights and hands-on expertise:
Jeff McManus: “Prune Like a Pro” Learn directly from the master behind the breathtaking beauty of the Ole Miss campus as he shares expert pruning techniques and professional landscaping insights.
Matt Nielson , Consulting Arborist, Green Groves: “If These Ole Trees Could Talk” A horticulture graduate from Auburn University, Nielson specializes in tree health and tree risk assessments, tree care specifications, pruning prescriptions and soil and root care. He will share stories and lessons from the trees in the Grove, Circle and other campus spaces, discussing best practices for healthy root systems and vibrant, structurally sound canopies that translate to healthy landscape trees and the urban forest. With extensive experience as a consulting arborist, Nielson works closely with nurseries, engineers, landscape architects, contractors and academics to promote long-term tree health.
Dr. Scott S. Knight , University of Mississippi: “For Goodness Snakes” A wildlife and fisheries expert, Dr. Knight will introduce attendees to snakes, both good and bad, found in the region. He holds degrees in Zoology (Ole Miss), Wildlife Management (Mississippi State), and Fisheries Management (Auburn University) and currently serves as the Director of the University of Mississippi Field Station.
Martha Hill, Hardscapes Designer: “Hardscapes in Outdoor Living Spaces” Transform your yard into a seamless extension of your home. Hill, a Mississippi State University graduate and general manager of Earth Scape Supply, will showcase beautiful and costeffective hardscaping options that combine the appearance of natural stone with the durability of engineered products.
Exclusive Behind-the-Scenes Tour!
As a special highlight, participants will enjoy a private tour of four stunning landscapes on Oxford’s South Lamar Blvd., each meticulously maintained by none other than Jeff McManus himself! This rare behind-the-scenes experience offers a firsthand look at the master’s extraordinary landscaping techniques and breathtaking designs.
For Ole Miss fans, gardening enthusiasts or anyone who simply appreciates exceptional landscaping, this bucket-list event is not to be missed. Spaces are limited, and as this is McManus’s final campus tour, spots are filling up quickly. Cost for the camp is $350 (does not include hotel accommodations). For more information, contact Rosie Vassallo at 662.234.4651 or OxfordMS.com
The Inn at Ole Miss, host hotel for the event, is offering a discounted nightly rate of $129 for a Standard Accommodation or $159 for a Onebedroom Suite. These rates listed are for single/double occupancy and the offer expires Apr. 27.
Presenting sponsors include The University of Mississippi, Dabney Nursery, The Inn at Ole Miss, Grace Realty Group, Stages MS Magazine, Mississippi Federal Credit Union, Campbell Clinic, RiverLand Roofing Contractor, Window Hero, Stroll Mississippi and At Home Memphis & Mid South Magazine. Hospitality Sponsors include B&B Concrete, mTrade, Stout’s Carpet, Action Pest Control, Clean Air Solutions, Shaw Ace Hardware, McKenzie Little PLLC, Jim Stephens, North East MS Electric Power Association and Oxford Eye Clinic & Optical.
SUMMER FUN AWAITS:
EXPERIENCE THE ULTIMATE
FAMILY VACATION WITH DISNEY
TEXT AND PHOTOS COURTESY OF BARBARA MAY, OWNER OF TRAVEL LEADERS
THE MAGICAL ALLURE OF DISNEY FOR FAMILIES
When most people think of Disney, enchanting castles of Disneyland and Walt Disney World come to mind. But the magic of Disney extends far beyond its iconic theme parks, offering a plethora of adventurous experiences for families of all shapes and sizes.
Disney is known for its unmatched ability to craft unforgettable moments that resonate across generations. With its universal appeal, Disney captivates guests from toddlers to grandparents through beloved characters, enchanting stories and vibrant, immersive environments. Exceptional customer service, exemplified by attentive “Cast Members,” ensures every visit is steeped in magic, reflecting Disney’s unwavering commitment to excellence. Prioritizing safety and cleanliness, Disney parks adhere to impeccable standards, providing peace of mind for families with young children. From a little one’s first encounter with Mickey Mouse to the adrenaline rush of a thrilling ride, Disney spins moments into memories that linger forever.
A MAGICAL JOURNEY AWAITS
Each Disney park offers its own unique universe, inviting guests to explore a spectrum of enchanting realms.
DISNEYLAND IN ANAHEIM, CA, the original Disney park, opened its gates in 1955. It’s the only one of his parks that Walt Disney actually walked through and experienced the attractions. Some of the most popular attractions at Disneyland are Pirates of the Caribbean, the Haunted Mansion, and BIG Thunder Mountain Railroad.
DISNEY WORLD IN FLORIDA made its grand debut in 1971, and has since grown into a vast complex encompassing four theme parks and two water parks. From the timeless enchantment of the Magic Kingdom, where Cinderella’s Castle stands as an iconic beacon, to the forward-thinking adventures at EPCOT, the heart-racing excitement of Animal Kingdom, and the captivating tales brought to life at Hollywood Studios, a distinct part of Disney will delight guests of all ages and interests. Each park promises an unforgettable journey filled with experiences for the entire family, embodying what makes it “the most magical place on Earth!”
Families flock to this world-famous park for the combination of thrilling rides, beloved characters and spectacular entertainment. The allure of Disney’s fairy-tale landscapes is irresistible, inviting guests to step into a world where dreams come to life. More than a vacation spot, it’s a storied adventure that creates lifelong memories. The magic of Disney World transcends age and time, welcoming everyone to experience the wonder and joy of being a kid again.
The development in Orlando is the largest Disney theme park in the world. Magic Kingdom itself is enchanting, but the entire resort spans approximately 25,000 acres—roughly the size of San Francisco! On property are more than 30,000 guest rooms, four golf courses, two full-service spas and over 300 dining venues. Not to mention the secret city lies beneath guests’ feet: a network of utility corridors exists beneath the Magic Kingdom. This intricate tunnel system allows cast members and supplies to move unseen, ensuring that Disney magic unfolds without a hitch, maintaining illusion and charm above ground.
CATCH A WAVE AT DISNEY’S WATER PARKS
Disney World Orlando’s two extraordinary water parks offer a splash-tacular adventure that beautifully complements the magic of the theme parks. Blizzard Beach takes the concept of a ski resort on a tropical melt-away into a whimsical wonderland. Zip down slopes like the exhilarating Summit Plummet or float leisurely along Cross Country Creek. Typhoon Lagoon offers a tropical paradise awakened by a fictional storm, featuring the legendary Mount Mayday and its iconic Surf Pool. Ride the thrilling Crush ‘n’ Gusher or simply relax on the sandy shores. From heart-pounding excitement to serene relaxation, these water parks deliver refreshing fun for everyone.
BEYOND THE PARKS: EXPLORING DISNEY’S DIVERSE OFFERINGS
More than just theme parks, Disney offers a variety of experiences that allow families to explore the world with a sprinkling of magic.
AULANI RESORT: There's no better place to experience Disney than at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, Hawai‘i! The property spans 21 acres along Oahu’s leeward coast, perfectly positioned on a beautiful lagoon with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean only about a 30-minute drive from Honolulu Airport. A beautiful blend of Hawaiian culture and Disney magic makes the resort a perfect destination for families and Disney enthusiasts alike. Snorkel in the private Rainbow Reef lagoon, splash in the misty grotto, play in pools with special Disney touches, and dine at restaurants with menu choices for adults and children. Of course the agenda includes meet-and-greets with Disney characters.
DISNEY CRUISE LINE: Magic meets the sea in a story unlike any other—the enchantment of Disney with the luxury of a world-class cruise. Onboard, guests are transported to a floating wonderland brimming with beloved character experiences and themed parties. The ships feature Broadway-style shows that bring favorite Disney stories to life. On the ship fans meet, greet, strike a pose or get an autograph from favorite Disney, Pixar and Marvel characters. Come face-to-face with Loki, Cruella De Vil, Dr. Facilier and Maleficent and delight in moments with Black Panther, Spider-Man and more favorites! Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique and Fairy Godmother’s Apprentices are a must for little princesses.
Both the ambiance and cuisine captivate the imagination at themed dining venues. Young travelers enjoy age-appropriate kids’ clubs and dedicated teen spaces, and the whole family can unwind in spacious staterooms equipped with thoughtful amenities like split bathrooms. Many itineraries include a stop at Castaway Cay, the company’s private island haven, offering the perfect beachside escape. Blending Disney's signature charm with exceptional cruise amenities, Disney Cruise Line creates unforgettable family moments at sea.
The line is rapidly increasing the size of its fleet. By the end of 2025, Disney will have eight ships. Five more ships will join between 2027 and 2031, bringing the total to 13 ships. The newest, Disney Destiny, is scheduled for her maiden voyage this November. The cruise will kick off an inaugural season of four- and five-night cruises from Ft. Lauderdale to the Bahamas and western Caribbean. Exclusive to this ship, Disney Hercules will bring larger-than-life characters, spirited comedy and legendary music from the Walt Disney Animation Studios film to the stage.
Disney Cruise Lines’ itineraries span the globe from the breathtaking landscapes of Alaska to the sun-drenched beaches of the Caribbean, the historic treasures of Europe, the rich tapestry of Southeast Asia, and the breathtaking beauty of Australia and New Zealand.
ADVENTURES BY DISNEY, A DIFFERENT KIND OF MAGIC
Guided group travel experiences take families to fascinating destinations all around the world, offering insider access, exhilarating adventures and interactive cultural experiences. Best of all, so much is included and guests are treated as VIPs.
NORTH AMERICA: Explore U.S. National Parks, including Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon; California, including Los Angeles and San Francisco; Alaska’s vast wilderness; and Canada, featuring sites like the Canadian Rockies.
SOUTH AMERICA: Journey to Peru, with a focus on Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, discover Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands, bask in Costa Rica’s rich biodiversity.
EUROPE: Discover Italy, including Rome, Tuscany and the Amalfi Coast; France, featuring Paris and the French countryside; England and Ireland’s blend of history and culture; Germany, Austria and the Czech Republic’s highlights; Spain’s vibrant cities like Barcelona and Madrid; Norway’s fjords and rich Viking history; and Iceland’s stunning natural wonders.
AFRICA: Experience South African safari adventures or historic Egypt, exploring ancient wonders like the pyramids and Nile River.
ASIA: Immerse yourself in Japan’s tradition and modernity; see Chinese highlights including the Great Wall and Beijing; venture to Southeast Asia, exploring Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia.
AUSTRALIA AND OCEANIA: Marvel at Australia’s iconic sites including the Great Barrier Reef, plus New Zealand’s sweeping landscapes and Maori culture. Each adventure is expertly crafted to provide not only amazing sights but also rich cultural experiences tailored for families.
Galápagos Islands
SMALL EXPLORING… WITH DISNEY AND AMAWATERWAYS RIVER CRUISES!
River cruising with Disney and AmaWaterways is an enchanting and immersive way to experience Europe, with unique itineraries that offer both luxury and adventure for explorers of all ages.
These “Family-centric Journeys” are tailored to families, featuring activities and experiences that captivate both kids and adults. Guided tours, interactive adventures and special Disney touches are included throughout the journey. Explore iconic European rivers such as the Danube, Rhine, Seine and Rhone; each itinerary is rich with culture, history and local charm. High-quality service, luxurious accommodations and gourmet dining options are the standard on board AmaWaterways. Nightly entertainment ranges from themed nights to exclusive Disney entertainment. New this year will be a National Geographic photography sailing on which guests will learn tips and techniques from an actual National Geographic photographer.
The new expedition cruise will journey to the Galapagos Islands, filled with breathtaking landscapes and thrilling adventures.
As families continue to seek enriching and memorable vacations, Disney remains a top choice, providing diverse vacation options that go beyond the traditional. The allure of Disney lies in its unique ability to craft extraordinary experiences that go beyond the usual. Whether in the fantastical lands of Disney parks, sailing through stunning seascapes aboard a Disney Cruise, or embarking on a culturally immersive journey with Adventures by Disney, a world of magic awaits discovery. Each Disney adventure promises families unforgettable memories, innovative storytelling and a level of service that transforms every moment into a cherished experience.
Blizzard Beach
For more information or to craft an unforgettable Disney family adventure, contact Travel Leaders at 901.377.6600 or 901.853.6200, or visit www.gotravelleaders. com. Offices are located at 2765 Wolf Creek Pkwy., Ste. 104, Memphis, and 155 N. Main St., Ste. 101A, Collierville, and are open by appointment only. Owned by Barbara May, Travel Leaders has been creating dream vacations for over 39 years. The agency specializes in all types of travel.
Blizzard Beach
Sustainable Wellness: Earth Friendly Habits for a Greener Lifestyle
STORY BY MICHELLE JOHNS
Earth Day falls in April, making it the perfect time to embrace habits that benefit our body and the environment. Small, intentional changes can lead to a more sustainable lifestyle, both personally and communally.
From self-care to sustainable eating and eco-friendly cleaning, here are some earth friendly habits to incorporate into your routine.
ECO-FRIENDLY SELF-CARE PRODUCTS
The products we use on our skin, hair and body can have a big impact on our health as well as the environment. Conventional beauty and self-care products can contain harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances that disrupt your personal microbiome. Many come in plastic packaging that is not good for the environment.
Following are some sustainable considerations:
• Look f or Natural Ingredients: Choose products with natural, organic and plant-based ingredients like aloe vera, shea butter and essential oils. These ingredients are biodegradable and also less likely to irritate sensitive skin.
• Op t for Refillable or Plastic-Free Packaging: Seek out brands that use glass, metal or recycled packaging. Some local businesses even offer refill stations.
• T ry DIY Self-Care: Making your own
products can be a fun, sustainable alternative. For instance, a simple sugar scrub made from sugar, coconut oil and essential oils provides gentle exfoliation without the microplastics found in some scrubs. A quick Google search will provide multiple options for almost any treatment.
REDUCING WASTE IN EVERYDAY LIFE
Reducing waste is a powerful way to live sustainably. Here are some simple swaps to make in your daily routine:
• Bring Y our Own Reusables: Carry a reusable water bottle, coffee cup and shopping bag with you to avoid singleuse plastics.
• Choose Cloth Over Paper: Replace paper towels with washable cloths for cleaning. Consider using cloth napkins for dining and reusable cotton rounds for skincare.
SUSTAINABLE EATING
From how it’s grown to how it’s transported, the food we eat impacts the environment. Making ecological choices in the kitchen can benefit both the planet and our health.
• E at Seasonally and Locally: Seasonal foods are often fresher, taste better and require fewer resources to grow and transport. Most local farmers markets open in April. Visit one to support small farms and get fresh, inseason produce.
• R educe Food Waste: Plan meals ahead of time, store food properly and get creative with leftovers. Composting food scraps creates nutrient-rich soil for plants. Countertop compost bins make the process easy.
NATURAL CLEANING PRODUCTS
Switching to natural cleaning products is an easy and impactful way to reduce toxins in the home and avoid plastic waste. Here are a few easy DIY recipes along with eco-friendly store-bought alternatives.
ALL-PURPOSE CLEANER
Ingredients: 1 cup water, 1 cup white vinegar, 10-15 drops of essential oil (lemon, tea tree or lavender)
Instructions: Combine ingredients in a spray bottle and shake. Use this to clean countertops, windows and other surfaces. The essential oils provide a pleasant scent and add antibacterial properties.
NATURAL GLASS CLEANER
Ingredients: 1 cup water, 1 cup white vinegar, 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions: Mix all ingredients in a spray bottle, shake well and spray on glass surfaces. Wipe with a microfiber cloth for a streak-free shine.
BAKING SODA SCRUB FOR SINKS AND TUBS
Ingredients: ½ cup baking soda, ¼ cup of Dr. Bronner’s Pure Castile soap, 1015 drops of essential lemon oil, enough water to make a paste
Instructions: Combine ingredients and water to form a paste. Scrub on surfaces like sinks, tubs and stovetops, then rinse. Baking soda’s abrasiveness makes it effective for tough stains without scratching.
RECOMMENDED ECO-FRIENDLY STORE-BOUGHT CLEANERS
If DIY isn’t your thing, here are some eco-friendly, non-toxic, store-bought cleaning products that are effective and sustainable:
• Se venth Generation: Plant-based, biodegradable cleaners with recyclable packaging.
• Dr. Bronner’s Sal Suds: A concentrated, biodegradable cleaner that works on various surfaces. It’s versatile and highly effective.
MINDFUL CONSUMPTION
Mindful consumption is about considering the environmental impact of our purchases and using resources responsibly. Here are a few ways to shop and live more sustainably:
• Buy Less, Choose Well: Before making a purchase, ask yourself if it’s something you truly need or if it will bring lasting value. This approach reduces waste and helps you avoid accumulating unnecessary items.
• Support Sus tainable Brands: When you do shop, seek out companies that prioritize sustainability, fair labor practices and eco-friendly materials. From fashion to home goods, many brands commit to ethical practices.
CONNECTING PERSONAL AND PLANET WELL-BEING
Embracing sustainability is about creating a lifestyle that values both personal wellness and the health of our environment. This Earth Day, celebrate by adopting a few of these earth friendly habits. By aligning our wellness practices with sustainability, we can contribute to a healthier, more vibrant environment while nurturing our own well-being.
Carrot Cake Trifle
IF CARROT CAKE MIGHT BE ONE OF YOUR FAVORITES, AND YOU MAY OR MAY NOT HAVE A SISTER-IN-LAW WHO MIGHT BE NAMED JENNIFER, (TOTALLY HYPOTHETICAL), WHO YOU MIGHT HAVE TO “ONE UP” DUE TO HER SUPER CAKE PIPING SKILLS, THIS IS YOUR RECIPE. IT IS DELICIOUS AND CAN EASILY BE PREPPED THE DAY BEFORE ASSEMBLING. PLUS, THE GARNISH POSSIBILITIES ARE ENDLESS. YOU CAN CHOOSE TO PIPE IT WITH WHIPPED, SWEETENED, ORANGE CREAM CHEESE; HOWEVER, I STAY IN MY LANE WHERE PIPING IS CONCERNED. “JENNIFER” WON THAT BATTLE YEARS AGO!
TO MAKE:
1 box carrot cake mix
¾ cup vegetable oil
½ cup buttermilk at room temperature
3 large eggs at room temperature
1 cup chopped toasted walnuts, divided
½ cup grated carrots
1 (5.1-oz.) package instant vanilla pudding mix
1 cup whole milk
Red and yellow food coloring
⅓ cup granulated sugar
1 (8-oz.) package cream cheese, softened
3 cups heavy whipping cream
1 Tbsp. real vanilla extract
1 (8.8-oz.) package of Biscoff cookie/biscuits
Preheat oven to 350˚. Spray a 13 x 9 baking pan with nonstick cooking spray. Line bottom with parchment paper and spray again..
In a large bowl, whisk together cake mix, oil, buttermilk and eggs about two minutes until well mixed. Fold in ¾ cup of chopped nuts and carrots. Pour batter into the baking pan and bake according to package directions. Cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, cut into 1½-inch pieces. Prepare the pudding according to package directions using the milk and adding red and yellow food coloring to make an orange color pudding. Chill for 8 hours or overnight.
In a stand mixture, with the whisk attachment, beat the cream cheese and sugar on medium-high until smooth and fluffy. Reduce the speed to medium and add the whipping cream and vanilla extract. Beat until well combined.
Fold about 1 cup of the cream cheese mixture into the pudding. Crush the cookies in a zip-top bag and set aside ¼ of the crumbs for the topping.
Place a single layer of cake cubes in a large trifle dish. Top with half of the pudding mixture, sprinkle with half of the remaining crushed cookies, and top with half of the whipped cream. Repeat the layers once more. (If you have cubes left over, grab a glass of milk and have a snack,) Sprinkle the top with the reserved cookies and the remaining ¼ cup of chopped walnuts.
I like to top with strawberries covered in orange-colored white chocolate to mimic carrots, but feel free to use your imagination! Chill until ready to serve the same day as assembled.
APRIL 2025 SOURCES
HOME FEATURE
Special ThanksTara Felice Interiors tarafeliceinteriors.com
Sarah Voigt Photography sarahvoigt.com
EXPERIENCE THIS
Special ThanksOxford-Lafayette County Economic Development Foundation oxfordms.com
TRAVEL
Special ThanksTravel Leaders
901.853.6200, 901.377.6600
HEALTHY YOU
Special ThanksMichelle Johns mjohns@transformingwellness.com
ON A GOOD NOTE
Special ThanksReed Family Dentistry reedfamilydentistry.com
REED FAMILY DENTISTRY
CELEBRATES 75 YEARS SERVING PATIENTS AND THE COMMUNITY
TEXT BY BETH OKEON
Reed Family Dentistry, a third-generation, familyowned dental practice, recently celebrated 75 years of treating people, not just teeth. The practice is currently run by father and son dentists, Dr. Kevin Reed and Dr. Taylor Reed.
Millington’s first-ever dental practice, Reed Family Dentistry was started soon after World War II in 1949 by Kevin’s father, Dr. Loyd Reed. His son and grandson agree it is an honor to carry on Dr. Loyd’s
legacy of excellence.
Dr. Kevin began serving on Church Health’s team of volunteer dentists at the nonprofit’s inception in 1988. He and Dr. Taylor volunteer with Donated Dental Services and Mid-South Mission of Mercy, providing free dental care to qualifying patients. Both have made mission trips to Honduras to provide dental care to those in need.
The Reeds credit their training at the Pankey Institute, a world-renowned dental continuing education facility, for their ability to effectively serve the community for 75 years and counting. As for the future, the two have no plans of slowing down. “I’m already looking forward to our 100th anniversary,” says Dr. Kevin. “I may not be practicing anymore, but I plan to be there to cut the cake!”
To commemorate the practice’s legacy of service, the Reeds commissioned local documentarian Sam Coates to create a short film that may be viewed at reedfamilydentistry.com/celebrating-75-years.
With offices in Covington and Millington, Reed Family Dentistry provides a wide array of dental services including preventative, restorative, cosmetic, periodontal care and more. For more information, visit reedfamilydentistry.com.
