August 2023

Eads homeowners turn to Kim Loudenbeck of Warehouse 67 to define their new home style.

Take a trip to the Grand Hotel in Fairhope, Alabama, known as “The Queen of Southern Resorts."

AUGUST 2023 • VOL. 22 NO. 5

PUBLISHER / EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

MARGARET MONGER | mmonger@athomemms.com

MANAGING EDITOR

AUBREY ANN MONGER | aamonger@athomemms.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

GINNI JONES | gjones@athomemms.com

COPY EDITOR TERRI GLAZER

IMAGING

COLOR MANAGEMENT

CHARLES REYNOLDS | cr@colorretouching.com

ADVERTISING

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

HILARY FRANKEL | hafrankel@comcast.net

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

GAIL HARRELL | gharrell@athomemms.com

CHRIS PUGH | chrisapugh@gmail.com

BUSINESS

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

TRIP MONGER | tmonger@athomemms.com

MARKETING AND CIRCULATION

HARRIET W. DEATON | hdeaton@athomemms.com

HOW TO REACH US

7776 FARMINGTON BLVD, # 1321 GERMANTOWN TN 38183 | 901.684.4155 ATHOMEMMS.COM

At Home Memphis & Mid South doesn't accept unsolicited manuscripts. To inquire about freelance opportunities, send a letter, resume and three writing samples to—Editor, At Home Memphis & Mid South : 7776 Farmington Blvd, # 1321 Germantown TN 38183

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Call 901.684.4155 or subscribe at athomemms. com . Annual subscription rate: $19.95. Single copy price: $4.99. At Home Memphis & Mid South is published 12 times a year. Postmaster: Send address changes to At Home Memphis & Mid South , 7776 Farmington Blvd, #1321 Germantown TN 38183 . We make every effort to correct factual mistakes or omissions in a timely and candid manner. Information can be forwarded to Trip Monger; At Home Memphis & Mid South , 7776 Farmington Blvd, #1321 Germantown TN 38183 or to tmonger@athomemms.com.

@athomemagazine

Atthis very moment there are 33 days, 20 hours, 36 minutes and 53 seconds until college football 2023 kicks off! Whether you cheer GO TIGERS GO, ROLL TIDE, WOO PIG SOOIE, HAIL STATE or (my favorite) HOTTY TODDY, if you are passionate about SEC football, this is the most wonderful time of the year.

August is going to be extra special at our home this year with our daughter, son-in-law and granddaughter living with us while waiting for their new home to be finished. Not only do we get both our grands in the same town for a while, when they move this time it will only be an hour away, and the BIG BONUS is that they are moving to Oxford, MS, one of our family’s favorite spots in the Mid South. After four years of med school, five years of residency, one year of fellowship, three moves and two of those with a baby, they will be starting a new chapter. Tyler will be joining Oxford Orthopedics as their total joint surgeon. We are so proud of him and can’t wait to see their finished home. We know there are great times ahead for them.

Another big milestone we will celebrate this month is our son Duncan’s 30th birthday. It seems he was just a baby and now he is entering a new decade with a son of his own. Where has the time gone? I catch myself saying “don’t blink” more than ever these days.

Time moves pretty fast and actually seems to be going by quicker the older I get. As I age though, I find myself not looking into the future as much, as I like to reminisce about the past. I don’t look back as much, as I have learned to live in and enjoy the moment.

As far as looking forward goes, I will admit I still have my countdown on and it is now 33 days, 19 hours, 56 minutes and 12 seconds until Grove time in Oxford! Wishing you all a most enjoyable late summer, a successful back-to-school time and a safe and exciting football season. Hotty Toddy, y’all!

- Margaret Monger, PUBLISHER

a renovation of style

EVEN MORE THAN A COMPLETE REMODEL, THIS RENOVATION PROJECT INVOLVED DEFINING A WHOLE NEW STYLE FOR THE HOMEOWNERS.

STORY BY TERRI GLAZER | DESIGN BY WAREHOUSE 67 DESIGN

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANNABELLA CHARLES PHOTOGRAPHY

"Threeyears ago we went to the Vesta Home Show. We thought our house looked fine before we got there,” recalls the homeowner. “[It] had gold walls and orange yellow floors, ornate iron, a very Tuscan feel. After seeing the Vesta, we decided it was time to change.”

Their trip to the annual home show prompted the couple to consider moving, but ultimately they decided to stay put and broaden the scope of a small renovation project they’d planned. “It started because I wanted a bigger closet. Then we added the bathroom, our bedroom, and eventually we decided we were just going to make it exactly

what we wanted, because we didn’t want to lose our backyard.," the homeowner recalls.

Who could blame the family for not wanting to leave behind their property? Their Eads home sits on a picturesque, perfectly manicured four-acre plot that feels more like a high-end resort than a backyard. From the lovely covered patio to the newly installed pool, complete with spa and swimup bar area, to the outdoor kitchen, open green space, pond, gazebo and immaculate landscaping, the pair have made their surroundings into a personal paradise.

Oncethe owners decided to make the place they’ve called home since 2005 into their “new” dream home, they brought in interior designer Kim Loudenbeck, owner of Warehouse 67 in Germantown. First on the agenda was defining exactly the style to perfectly reflect the residents’ taste. After a process in which the homeowner and Loudenbeck explored a plethora of options, they zeroed in on a glamorous, monochromatic theme with plenty of sparkle. The look is inspired by the style prevalent in Las Vegas, where the couple own a second home.

Loudenbeck gives her client credit for being willing to go a bit off the Mid South’s beaten design path to achieve a style that is unique and completely personal. “She was open to doing something different. The best projects are the ones where you can collaborate with the homeowner, really get a sense of who they are and come up with ideas and suggestions,” she says.

The renovation was complete, from floors to ceilings. Tuscan arches and columns, wooden mantels, several walls, a kitchen pantry and a butler’s pantry came out. Room layouts were reworked. All the furniture, rugs, window treatments and fixtures were replaced. The result is sleek, up-to-date and yet welcoming, proving that a modern aesthetic doesn’t have to be cold and austere. Loudenbeck explains, “We thought about each item we placed in this house almost as a piece of artwork. We balanced all the shiny finishes by adding in wood tones and texture. We did a lot of pattern play, since we weren’t going to have a lot of color. I love how all the velvets, the linen, all of the materials just create such an inviting space.”

Along with the owners’ collection of fine art, the lighting fixtures constitute another aesthetic element in the decor. The designer explains that, due to the home’s high ceilings and grand scale, basic fixtures would have lacked the size and interest she and the homeowner envisioned. “We used lighting to create personality in each room.”

is

that more evident than in the foyer, where an eight-foot waterfall chandelier makes an elegant statement. Loudenbeck and her assistant Cassie Hunt assembled each of the hundreds of hand-blown crystals on site, bringing the work of art to life. The homeowner says of all the unique light fixtures in the home, and there are several showstoppers, it is her favorite.

Knowing her client is a fan of faux finishes, Loudenbeck devised a way to incorporate a similar design element into the redone dining

room. In the spaces between the beams of the newly coffered ceiling, she placed textured wallpaper. Its subtle metallic accents provide a bit of sparkle when the circular chandelier over the dining table is lit.

Between the dining room and kitchen is the new wine room, a glass-enclosed, temperature controlled masterpiece conceived by Loudenbeck and executed by an intrepid group of subcontractors who were willing to step outside the box. “Wine rooms just are not done very often in this area,” says Loudenbeck. “It was hard for us to source and find people to work with who understood the requirements, people who were willing to try things that they’d never done and take risks with us.”

thestunning room is now a focal point with a solid granite wall treatment and floor-to ceiling wine racks. Its walk-through layout allows seamless flow between the dining room and the kitchen.

The homeowner knew she wanted her new kitchen to include as large an island as possible. She and Loudenbeck collaborated during construction to ensure the final product fits the scale of the now open design that marries the kitchen with the spacious family room. The ten-foot ceilings soar and a wall of windows floods the area with light. The renovation included fresh wainscoting bathed in a charcoal hue that creates a focal point around the new limestone hearth, the addition of full-length sheer curtain panels on the windows, and of course, more dazzling light fixtures.

Major alterations took place in the downstairs owner’s suite to create a luxurious, modern and clean-lined retreat. “We changed the layout of where the bed was located, but I think the biggest change here was the fireplace,” Loudenbeck says. “With the more modern style, the traditional wooden mantel did not work. So again, this was one of those times when the granite fabricator said, ‘I’ve never done anything like that, but I'm willing to try.’” The designer’s creativity and the workman’s expertise resulted in an extraordinary design element that continues the modern aesthetic of the suite and the entire home.

The primary bath underwent one of the more dramatic changes. The new layout allows the eye to flow through the area, and provides sight lines to the beauty of the backyard through windows on the back wall. To achieve the improved floor plan Loudenbeck created a seamless, curbless glass shower surround and coupled it with an oversized, oval soaking tub. The double vanity provides space for husband and wife, but she also has a bonus area any fashionista would envy. “I love the idea of bringing back a dressing area,” says the designer of the spot, complete with sofa, TV and even a beverage refrigerator cleverly hidden in a console. “It’s a place where she can sit just to put her shoes on or to decompress at the end of the day.”

justas in the home’s main rooms, Loudenbeck also brought panache and drama into the smaller areas. In the downstairs hall bath she kept the monochromatic theme, but punched it up with a full-height mirror, extra lighting and marble surfaces. “It needed that glam feel because the other areas have such big personalities. We couldn’t do just a ‘normal’ renovation; we had to have a bit of sparkle here, as well,” she says. Even the more utilitarian areas near the rear entrance have special details—an accent wall of herringbone marble tiles paired with hand-painted grasscloth wallpaper in the half bath, and custom open shelves to display accessories in the laundry room.

Now that the almost three-year project has come to completion, Loudenbeck looks back on it with satisfaction as a one-of-a-kind undertaking. “We had to do a lot of exploring because this was a unique property and a unique process. It was a search for their new look. As a designer, I love that they were willing to take that journey with me and trust me to help guide them to something that reflects their personal style.”

The homeowner sums up quickly and completely how pleased she and her husband are with the end result of their style and renovation journey. “It doesn’t feel like we renovated. It feels like a new home to us.”

Caroline & Hardy ANDERTON

MAY 27, 2023 | PIPERTON, TN

PARENTS OF THE BRIDE:

TORI AND MILES BARTON

PARENTS OF THE GROOM:

DEDRA AND SCOTT ANDERTON

WEDDING & RECEPTION: THE ROBINSHAW

DAY OF COORDINATOR: LYNDAL BRUMLEY OF LA CHÉRIE WEDDINGS & EVENTS

FLORIST: JOHN MARK ENTERPRISES

PHOTOGRAPHER: MORGAN NEWSOM

VIDEOGRAPHER: JERRETT SEGARS OF SEGARS PRODUCTIONS

CAKE: FROST BAKE SHOP

CATERING: ANOTHER ROADSIDE ATTRACTION

ENTERTAINMENT: HEART MUSIC MEMPHIS

QUARTET: THE STRING QUARTET OF THE SOUTH

WEDDING DRESS: MAGGIE LOUISE BRIDAL BRIDESMAIDS' DRESSES : BELLA BRIDESMAIDS

MAKEUP: KENDRICK SIMPSON

HAIR: ANNA CLAIRE MCGINTY

PAPER: RSVP STATIONERS

CALLIGRAPHY: KATHERINE CROSBY, ARLINGTON, TEXAS

CRUISING INTO 2024

TEXT AND PHOTOS COURTESY OF BARBARA MAY, OWNER OF TRAVEL LEADERS

As the weather cools down, the cruise industry heats up with some of the best destinations to visit this fall and winter. From the tropical islands of the Caribbean to the stunning glaciers in Alaska, there’s a cruise destination for everyone. Experience the beauty of the Mediterranean or explore the historic cities of Northern Europe. With so many options, the hardest part will be choosing a dream destination and a cruise line. Several new cruise ships have debuted this year and more will be coming out next year.

RIVER CRUISES VS. OCEAN CRUISES

Rivers have shaped human destiny since the dawn of time. Civilizations have been built around them and they have become part of our collective memories. A river tells a story, not just through it – but through sharing in its flow. Ocean cruises take passengers to destinations, river cruises take them through incredible cities and villages in Europe, Southeast Asia and Africa.

RIVER CRUISES

Modern river cruise ships traverse major waterways across the globe, creating a boutique luxury experience, taking a relaxed pace of travel, and offering access to authentic local culture. Unlike a large ocean cruise ship, most river cruises offer all exterior cabins, featuring large floor-to-ceiling windows or balconies. But it’s not just the accommodation that’s different; river cruises include daily guided shore excursions as well as wine, beer and other drink options at lunch and dinner, and spend more time in the heart of historic cities and small villages.

Just as with ocean cruising, on a river cruise guests unpack once for a journey through multiple countries. River cruises, however, allow passengers to immerse themselves in the history and culture at each port with excursions to historic castles, culinary tours, painting classes and more. They present opportunities for unique experiences like donning ancient Roman attire at a Roman clothes workshop, participating in a reenactment of the Roman games, touring an extinct volcano or abandoned coal mine, or visiting an off-the-beaten-path chocolate museum.

Every port presents river cruisers a world of possibilities to interact with the locals and choose the dynamic, interactive activities that appeal to them most. It’s the Old World in a whole new way!

From delivering unparalleled experiences and boundless exploration, luxury river cruise lines put guests in the captain’s seat to navigate the journey, fuel their passions and steer clear of the unexpected while cruising down the world’s most memorable and mesmerizing waterways.

These trips offer the grandest views as well as nightly local entertainment and regional cuisine.

River cruising puts passengers in the midst of everything. Lines like Avalon and AmaWaterways also offer special-interest themed river cruises suited to specific passions and pursuits. Gardening fans can walk through Europe’s biggest garden during tulip season in Holland. Wine and beer lovers can taste regional vintages from Paris to Provence, or raise a stein of frothy brew from Basel to Nuremberg. World War II and Habsburg & Royalty cruises will delight history buffs, while shutterbugs can hone their skills on a photography cruise. A culinary or Christmastime river cruise is sure to indulge all the senses in local culture, cuisine and everything in between.

For a truly epic adventure, look no further than Avalon’s Storyteller Series sailings. Hosted by celebrity authors, actors, artists and musicians, these cruises are the perfect intertwining of facts, fiction and fun. Scenic ports, riveting plots, rich history and intriguing mystery converge on the world’s most celebrated rivers as guests get the inside stories on favorite books, songs, movies and more.

In 2024, hosts will include:

Graham McTavish, known for his roles in Outlander, The Witcher, House of the Dragon, and Men in Kilts : A Roadtrip with Sam and Graham . Best-selling author of Clanlands: Whisky, Warfare and a Scottish Adventure Like No Other . McTavish is currently the face of Avalon Waterways cruising. He will host an eight-day active and discovery cruise on the Rhine River departing Oct. 2.

Jen Hatmaker, New York Times bestselling author of 14 books including For the Love and her latest project, Feed These People: Slam Dunk Recipes for Your Crew . The curator of the Jen Hatmaker Book Club and host of the award-winning For the Love podcast will host an eightday active and discovery cruise celebrating her 50th birthday in Holland and Belgium. Sailing dates are Aug. 3 and 10.

Next year marks the 80th anniversary of D-Day. In commemoration of that momentous day in history Beaches of Normandy D-Day Cruises will sail exclusively in 2024. The 12-day voyage to honor the Allied troops who bravely fought in World War II will retrace events surrounding D-Day, from Bletchley Park, home of Britain’s famed codebreakers, to the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial, perched high above Omaha Beach in France.

'TIS THE SEASON FOR A CHRISTMAS CRUISE

Sail into the season with a visit to European Christmas markets, aglow with the warmth of a simpler time. From wooden stalls with handmade ornaments and hot mulled wine to grand cathedrals and glistening lights, a winter cruise on the Danube, Main or Rhine River is a true gift of timeless tradition. See musical instruments come to life in Rüdesheim, Germany; taste Austrian Christmas cookies while sailing to Vienna; visit Melk’s Benedictine Abbey to marvel at its frescoed ceilings; and shop at the magical Christmas markets of Budapest, Prague or Strasbourg.

POPULAR RIVER CRUISE ITINERARIES:

France: Burgundy & Provence: Journey through Paris, the “City of Light,” sip and dine in the Burgundy wine region along the Rhone River.

Germany: Sail past castles, fortresses and picturesque German villages along the romantic Rhine River.

Central Europe: Visit Budapest, Vienna, Nuremberg and Prague to witness grand architecture and fascinating historic sites of the delightful Danube River.

Asia: See cosmopolitan Shanghai, and Beijing’s imperial treasures, including the Great Wall, along China’s legendary Yangtze River.

Egypt: Explore the ancient world and uncover the mysteries of Egypt along the legendary Nile River.

South America: Venture into the Amazon jungle to meet native communities, swim with dolphins and relax on amazing beaches on a journey down the Amazon River.

The United States: River cruising in the USA highlights gems closer to home–no trip across the pond necessary. Choose a trip down the Mississippi, Hudson or Columbia.

OCEAN CRUISES

Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas, due out in January, will represent the line’s most extensive commitment to family cruising. The mega-ship will feature eight neighborhoods and offer five new adventures not seen on any other ship in the fleet, including the largest waterpark at sea, the Aqua Dome, the first free-fall slide, the first suspended infinity pool and more.

Giant waterpark Category 6 will feature six waterslides and other fantastic features, plus unrivaled ways to chill with stunning ocean views and a pool for each day of the week.

The ship will include more than 40 new and returning dining, bar and nightlife options, plus cutting-edge entertainment. Among the favorites are the cruise line’s thrilling dive and ice-skating shows, each enhanced by immersive features and stunning special effects.

Over 80 percent of Icon’s rooms will accommodate three or more people and the ship will have an entire neighborhood devoted to families with kids aged six and younger. Royal Caribbean has gone all-in to become the premier cruise line for family vacations.

Icon’s maiden voyage will be a seven-night Eastern Caribbean round trip sailing from Miami, visiting St. Kitts, St. Thomas, and the cruise line’s private destination in the Bahamas, CocoCay. After the initial sailing, the ship will offer alternating seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries; western cruises will visit Honduras, CocoCay and two ports in Mexico.

To

WHY DO VACATIONERS LOVE CRUISES?

T hey are great for families and reunions

C ruises allow guests to unpack once, then wake up to a new place each day

P acked daily schedules on board offer nonstop action Year-round sailings means cruising can fit any schedule

A GRAND GETAWAY

STORY BY TERRI GLAZER | PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE GRAND HOTEL

Asthe August heat swelters, planning a fall getaway is the perfect way to take your mind off the high temps and humidity. There’s no better time to explore than October, when cooler weather and smaller crowds make travel in the deep South a joy. And there’s no grander destination than the Grand Hotel in Point Clear, AL.

Situated on the eastern shore of Mobile Bay, the Grand has welcomed guests since 1847 and has long been known as “The Queen of Southern Resorts.” Along with its storied history, the hotel’s beautiful architecture, stunning accommodations, top-notch golf and luxurious spa draw visitors from the region and beyond. American presidents, world leaders and stars of movies and music have vacationed at the Grand.

After an easy day’s drive from the Mid South, settle into a well-appointed room or suite with a picturesque view of the marina, the lagoon or the Grand’s lush grounds. Then, the agenda is strictly up to you. Active types will love a round of golf at the Lakewood Club, a Robert Trent Jones Trail member. Two 18-hole courses offer scenic views and challenging play. Tennis lovers of all skill levels will feel at home at Lakewood’s racquet facility, recently included in Tennis magazine’s Top 50 resorts in the country. Hotel guests have complimentary access to the ten courts. A full staff of pros is on hand if a lesson is in order to brush up on your game..

ifrelaxation is the goal of your fall getaway, the Grand is just the spot. Beach and pool cabanas give guests the ultimate day outdoors. Just bring your sunglasses and a good book; every cabana is equipped with chilled water, a fruit tray, a refrigerator and a Bluetooth speaker. The hotel’s 20,000-square-foot spa oozes elegant tranquility. Whether you choose an indulgent treatment from the extensive menu of spa and salon services or opt for a day pass that includes access to steam rooms, the sauna, whirlpools, the bespoke Relaxation Room and more, you’ll feel stress slip away.

Nature lovers who visit the Grand in October will be in good company. Thousands of Monarch butterflies come to Mobile Bay’s eastern shore every fall on their 3,000-mile migration from Canada to Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. They rest and feed in the hotel’s beautifully manicured grounds and lush gardens before beginning their trip across the Gulf of Mexico. The beauty of nature is on display in a myriad of ways throughout the area, from the wide variety of birds who call the bay home to the iconic live oak trees draped in Spanish moss to Mobile Bay itself, one of the largest estuaries in the United States, where five rivers converge to provide a habitat for more species per square mile than anywhere else in the country. Watch Mother Nature’s pageant unfold on a ride along the Grand’s biking trail, a paddle on a stand-up paddleboard or a fishing trip.

For an adventure off the property, hop on one of the hotel’s loaner bikes and take advantage of the cooler October weather when you pedal the easy eight miles on the Eastern Shore Trail to the charming town of Fairhope. Southern Living magazine named Fairhope among the very best in Southern small towns, and it’s easy to see why. Its flower-lined streets are filled with antique shops, bookstores, boutiques, art galleries and local restaurants. Time your excursion to arrive back “home” to the Grand before dusk. You don’t want to miss the chance to enjoy a beverage and watch the sunset while seated around a cozy outdoor fireplace at Bucky’s Lounge. Follow it up with a delectable dinner at Bayside Grill, Sweetwater Cafe or Southern Roots, then a nightcap at 1847 for the perfect end to the perfect day in the perfect time of year for a Grand Hotel getaway.

AT BIG CYPRESS LODGE

Thismonth, Memphis honors the 46th anniversary of Elvis Presley's passing and his legendary life with a week-long celebration called Elvis Week. Aug. 9-17, music lovers, travelers and Memphians alike can visit Graceland, enjoy screenings of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll’s movies, concerts of his music and more.

The celebration will feature appearances by celebrities and musicians, panel discussions, meetand-greet opportunities, and other events. On Aug. 15, fans will gather for a Candlelight Vigil in quiet remembrance of the king. Other highlights planned for 2023 Elvis Week include an Aloha from Hawaii 50th Anniversary Concert featuring Elvis on the big screen with a live band, a screening of his ’68 Comeback Special, and Conversations on Elvis with those who knew him best sharing memories and stories. The week will close out with the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest, where entertainers imitate Presley and compete for a cash prize of $20,000.

Out-of-towners or Mid Southerners who want to turn Elvis Week into a staycation can book their getaway at one of the most unique resorts in Memphis, Big Cypress Lodge. This wilderness-themed resort is located in the heart of downtown Memphis, inside the soaring 32-story Bass Pro Shops Pyramid on the banks of the Mississippi River. The hotel brings the outdoors inside with rustic-elegant guest rooms and suites that resemble vintage cabins, including screened-in “porches” and electric fireplaces, an elegant lobby, a 535,000-square-foot Cypress Swamp featuring aquariums teeming with fish and alligators, and two sky-high culinary outlets offering outdoor seating and panoramic views of the Memphis skyline.

BLUE and GREENS! RED, BLUE AND GREENS!

Recipes by Sissy Eidt Browning

WITH THE HOT DAYS AUGUST BRINGS, THESE COOL AND COLORFUL SALADS ARE SURE TO BE A REFRESHING ADDITION TO ANY SUMMER LUNCH OR SUPPER. ADD PROTEIN TO EITHER OF THESE TO MAKE A DELICIOUS, LIGHT SUMMER MEAL. I PREFER GRILLED SHRIMP, CHICKEN OR SALMON. ENJOY!

WATERMELON, FETA AND ORZO SALAD

1 cup cooked orzo pasta

½ cup Lemon-Shallot Vinaigrette (sold in the refrigerated section at Sprouts Market)

3 cups watermelon, seeded and diced

4 cups packed baby arugula

4 oz. crumbled feta cheese

Toss together hot pasta and vinaigrette in a bowl and chill 3-24 hours. Just before serving, gently toss in watermelon, arugula and feta. Add salt and pepper to taste.

BABY GREENS WITH STRAWBERRY, BLUEBERRY AND MANDARIN ORANGE SALAD

6 cups packed baby greens

1 cup each: strawberries, blueberries and mandarin oranges

1 cup toasted almonds

Dressing:

2 cups canola oil

1 cup raspberry vinegar

¾ cup sugar

1 tsp. Dijon mustard

1 tsp. dried basil

1 tsp. each: salt and pepper

Warm the sugar and vinegar in the microwave until the sugar is dissolved. Let the mixture cool and add the remaining ingredients. Shake well and use the desired amount over the mixed greens, fruit and almonds when ready to serve.

Male Hormones

STORY MICHELLE JOHNS

Hormones are important to daily life functioning and help to regulate the body’s metabolism, growth and development, reproduction, sleep-wake cycles and stress response. They communicate information between organs and tissues to ensure appropriate functioning and synchronization of their activities.

Hormones are necessary for the body to perform optimally to maintain overall health and well-being. This month, we discuss male hormones, also known as androgens, primarily produced in the testes in males. The main androgen hormone is testosterone, although other androgens, such as dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), are also essential.

Functions of male hormones:

• Testosterone: Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone and is responsible for the development and maintenance of reproductive tissues, including the testes and prostate. It plays a crucial role in muscle mass development, facial and body hair growth, deepening of the voice and development of the Adam’s apple. Testosterone also works to maintain bone density, regulate mood and stimulate the production of red blood cells.

• Dih ydrotestosterone (DHT): DHT is a more powerful form of testosterone. It causes male external genitalia to develop and grow in fetuses. DHT also contributes to the development of male pattern baldness and the growth of facial and body hair during puberty.

• Deh ydroepiandrosterone (DHEA): DHEA is produced by the adrenal glands in both males and females. In males, it serves as a forerunner to produce testosterone and other hormones.

Male hormones are essential to promote the production of sperm cells in the testes and support sexual function, including libido (sex drive) and erectile function. The production of male hormones is regulated by a feedback loop involving the hypothalamus, pituitary gland and testes. The hypothalamus secretes gonadotropinreleasing hormone (GnRH), which signals the pituitary gland to release luteinizing hormone (LH) and folliclestimulating hormone (FSH). LH stimulates the testes

to produce testosterone, while FSH supports sperm production.

Imbalances in male hormones can occur due to various factors, including age, certain medical conditions (such as hypogonadism or testicular disorders), medication use and lifestyle factors. In cases of hormone deficiencies or imbalances, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may be considered to restore levels to a more normal range. HRT in males typically involves testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) to address low testosterone levels and associated symptoms. TRT can be administered through injections, transdermal patches, gels or pellets implanted under the skin. It's important to note that the use of male hormone therapy, like any medical intervention, should be discussed with a healthcare professional who can assess individual needs, monitor hormone levels and provide appropriate guidance and supervision.

Potential health risks and symptoms associated with declining hormones in men include:

• Se xual dysfunction: Reduced libido (sex drive), erectile dysfunction, decreased frequency and quality of erections and decreased overall sexual satisfaction.

• Chan ges in mood and cognitive function: Low testosterone levels may contribute to increased irritability, fatigue, depression and decreased motivation. Some men experience cognitive changes, including difficulties with concentration, memory and overall cognitive performance.

• Decr eased muscle mass and strength: Declining hormone levels can lead to decreased muscle mass, reduced muscle strength and a potential increase in body fat.

• R educed bone density: As hormone levels decline, the risk of osteoporosis or osteopenia (low bone density) may increase, potentially leading to an increased risk of fractures.

• F atigue and decreased energy levels: Low testosterone levels can contribute to feelings of fatigue, decreased energy levels and reduced overall vitality.

MA, LPC-MHSP (TEMP), NCC, 200 HR E-RTY, 500 HR RYT

• Me tabolic changes: Hormonal imbalances can affect metabolism, potentially leading to insulin resistance, increased risk of metabolic syndrome and a higher likelihood of developing conditions such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

• Decr eased quality of life: The various symptoms associated with declining hormones can impact a man’s overall quality of life, including physical, emotional and social wellbeing.

While men and women share the same hormones and suffer similar outcomes from declining hormones, men and women have distinct hormonal profiles, and the primary differences lie in the levels and functions of certain hormones for each sex.

Here are some key differences in hormones between men and women:

• Testosterone: Testosterone levels are significantly higher in men than women. Testosterone is responsible for the development of male reproductive tissues, secondary sexual characteristics (such as facial and body hair growth, deepening of the voice and increased muscle mass), and plays a role in sperm production. While women also produce testosterone, their levels are typically much lower. Testosterone plays a role in sex drive for both sexes.

• Es trogen and progesterone: These are the primary female sex hormones. Estrogen is responsible for the development of female reproductive organs, breast development and regulation of the menstrual cycle. Progesterone helps prepare the uterus for pregnancy and maintaining pregnancy. Women generally have higher levels of estrogen and progesterone than men.

• F ollicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH) are gonadotropins that play a crucial role in the reproductive systems of both men and women. In women, FSH stimulates the growth and development of ovarian follicles, which contain eggs, and triggers the release of estrogen. LH causes ovulation and helps regulate the production of estrogen and progesterone. In men, FSH and LH stimulate the production of sperm and testosterone.

• P rolactin: Prolactin is a hormone primarily associated with breastfeeding and milk production in women. It is typically higher in women, especially during pregnancy and after childbirth. However, men also produce prolactin, albeit at lower levels, and it plays a role in various physiological processes in both sexes, such as immune regulation and sexual behavior.

While these hormones are generally more predominant in one sex, they are present and have important functions in both men and women. Hormonal levels can vary among individuals, and there is considerable overlap in hormone ranges between the sexes.

It is important to recognize that the endocrine system is complex; other hormones, such as thyroid hormones, cortisol and insulin, regulate various physiological activities in both men and women. The overall balance and interplay between different hormones contribute to the unique characteristics and functions of each sex.

A blood hormone panel assessing the levels of a person’s hormones provides helpful insight into how that individual’s hormones are performing.

OWNER, TRANSFORMING WELLNESS, LLC

MJOHNS@TRANSFORMING-WELLNESS.COM

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Local Realtor Stacia Rosatti celebrates an anniversary with a benefit for Shelby Farms Park

A party is always a good way to mark a milestone. When the party celebrates a special occasion and benefits a Memphis treasure, it’s a true win-win.

Realtor Stacia Rosatti recently observed her 10th anniversary in business with a multi-purpose event that expressed appreciation for her clients, spotlighted one of her luxury listings, highlighted local artists, and raised funds for Shelby Farms Park.

Team Rosatti, made up of Stacia, her husband Bill, son Rollin and staff, curated exhibits by 13 area artists, each of whom agreed to make a donation to Shelby Farms for every work sold during the evening. The team also made a gift in honor of their clients and all who attended the party.

Shelby Farms is near and dear to Rosatti’s heart. “I love the park! When I walk around Hyde Lake I always hear different languages being spoken and see people from so many backgrounds and cultures, all doing the same thing. We’re getting some exercise, walking our dogs, talking to our best friends, enjoying nature’s beauty. It’s a great place to bring the community together, show off all the diversity we have, and focus on our commonality,” she says.

Caleb Tinkle, senior development manager for the Shelby Farms Park Conservancy, applauds Team Rosatti’s outside-the-box approach for supporting the park. “The donation that Stacia made went directly to our day-to-day operation. It takes about $11,000 a day just to operate and maintain the park. And that’s 365 days a year,” he says. “With up to 7 million visitors a year it’s a challenge just keeping everything operational and looking beautiful. Maintenance, daily landscaping and everything, it takes a lot of work. We manage 3,300 acres, including more than 40 miles of trails and the Shelby Farms Greenline that stretches about 12 miles now.”

The Conservancy relies on donations, along with revenue from rentals and vendors, to help meet its multi-million dollar operating budget. “Because they know how many millions of visitors we get, people are usually shocked to learn that we only have about 1,200 donors,” says Tinkle, stressing the importance of individual and corporate gifts of all sizes. “It really doesn't matter if it's a small gift or a large one. Every bit counts and makes a difference.”

For more information or to make a donation to the Shelby Farms Park Conservancy, go to shelbyfarmspark.org.

STORY BY TERRI GLAZER | PHOTO COURTESY OF STEVE MILLER, SNAP SOLD PHOTOGRAPHY