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
SUBSCRIPTIONS
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.
Twenty-two
more Wednesdays until Christmas, six more Saturdays until college football and just days away from the arrival of our fourth grandchild! He will be making his debut any day now and although Christmas and opening day of college football thrill me, there is no comparison to the thrill of holding a grandchild for the first time. For the parents, that thrill comes with a bit of fear as well. Those of us who have been blessed with the happiness of welcoming a little one also know the feeling of leaving the hospital and literally praying the entire way home with our bundle of joy. I remember riding in the back with ours while my husband drove well under the speed limit, exercising every ounce of caution he had. Once we reached the house safely, excitement took over—the special excitement of introducing our new addition to siblings, pets and, of course, their home and more importantly their room. A room created for them that was as clean and sterile as it would ever be!
Our homes are so important and reflect so much about us. They are where we entertain, celebrate and even mourn. For those with children, home is where their story begins. We have been in our home for over 30 years and we have had some very sad times there where we have mourned the loss of grandparents and parents, friends and our sweet pets. The joyful memories outweigh the sad ones by a landslide, though. Homes are so personal and I enjoy each month peeking into not only some of the most beautiful homes in our area but seeing how those homes reflect so perfectly the families they shelter and whose most precious memories they hold.
I hope when you read At Home and look through the beautiful decor you are inspired to create not only a beautiful space for your family but one that is perfect for you and brings you joy.
As summer comes to an end, hopefully taking the sweltering temps along with it, I am looking forward to football, fall and meeting our new grandson, Wesley Ralph Ellis. You are beautifully and wonderfully made and already so loved!
- Margaret Monger, PUBLISHER
In our July issue, we mistakenly ran an outdated ad for Coldwell Banker Collins-Maury, Realtors. We apologize for any confusion this may have caused.
BY
BY
BUILT BY UHLHORN BROTHERS | ARCHITECTURE BY SHAPRIO & COMPANY
INTERIOR DESIGN BY MURPHY MAUDE INTERIORS
Form Meets Function
A
STORY
CARA SIEVERS | PHOTOGRAPHY
ANNABELLA CHARLES
It's grand.
It’s luxurious.
There’s a wow factor, for sure. But it’s also warm, eclectic, inviting. And above all, this modern Southern home is functional and comfortable.
Situated on a wooded one-acre lot that was recently subdivided for two gorgeous new builds is this unique Grandview Avenue residence, designed by Shapiro & Company Architects and built by Uhlhorn Brothers, LLC, with design by Murphy Maude Interiors. Uhlhorn Brothers bought the property in 2021, then developed it into two lots. Walker named the development Wynne Oaks (after his daughter, Wynne). The existing, mature landscaping was beautiful, and Uhlhorn worked throughout the entire process to preserve as much as possible. Two, over 100-year-old water oaks—which required delicate care and deep-root injections throughout the construction process— frame the face of this distinctive custom build and
add to the mystery of whether this home has been here for a second or a century.
“Trends come and go, but as classically trained architects, we understand what makes something retain its timeless beauty, both in design and materials,” says Brad Shapiro of Shapiro & Company Architects. “This home, despite being custom-built and brand new, fits right in with Memphis’ rich history of distinct, high-quality residential architecture.”
“Mixed material usage adds to the character and warmth of the house, starting with the exterior. The home is covered with a tumbled limestone veneer, juxtaposed by a more traditional Hardie plank siding and regal stacked stone. The shingled roof ebbs and flows over the elevation of the home and features occasional pops of metal to add interest," as noted by Mary Davis, the architectural designer with Shapiro.
Thesubstantial limestone-framed entry makes a statement, but in a muted luxe fashion that continues throughout the interior of the home. Once inside a herringbone-inlay Spanish cedar front door, guests are greeted with 12-foot floor-to-ceiling windows, granting a view of the bluestone pool and manicured landscape”, continued Davis.
The architectural goal of the home’s layout was a “slow reveal, with a different, inviting space around every corner,” says Shapiro. This flow is apparent as one moves into the family room, which is flooded by even more natural light. Ten-foot custom French doors topped with 3.5-foot transoms lead out onto the pool deck, creating a picturesque view from the large, yet informal, dining table for eight.
The home continues to unfold as it meanders along; not all at once, but with another appealing vignette around every turn. In the family room, a vast two-way gas fireplace flanked in black leathered granite serves as a centerpiece for the room and for conversation. Around the corner from the fireplace is a temperature-controlled, 850-bottle wine grotto, a collector’s dream conveniently located next to a wet bar for easy entertaining.
“The architects and designers worked together to give us a plan that worked for the homeowner, enabling him to have an ideal space for entertaining while keeping this a comfortable family home,” says Walker Uhlhorn, partner of Uhlhorn Brothers Construction, LLC. “The layout and design of this build keeps the 7,000 square feet of living space cozy and welcoming. It’s what the homeowner really wanted.”
The kitchen is a collection of standout elements, starting with the plum-colored, French-style Lacanche range as the centerpiece. An aubergine thread in the granite behind the stove highlights the hue perfectly, and is topped by a Venetian plaster hood finished with metallic gold paint by Bridgette Speak. Quartzite waterfall countertops cover two massive islands, one for prep and one with seating for casual meals. But there’s also the option of dining in a charming little breakfast nook surrounded by a comfy banquette. The beautifully articulated kitchen is crowned by six striking antique light globes that perfectly embody the quiet boldness of this home.
the home’s interior and exterior.
Justoff the kitchen is a nice-sized scullery and butler’s pantry. Cabinets in a moody gray-green and black soapstone countertops create a covert little “backstage” feel to this walk-through caterer’s kitchen. Convenient pocket doors on either side allow for closing off the space while entertaining, if needed.
Speaking of entertaining, this home was built to fit the land, so it wouldn’t be complete without an outdoor entertaining space. The ceilings compress slightly moving through a nestled breezeway onto the screened-in porch. Here, the space opens up again dramatically to a 20-foot, A-line, cedar tongue-and-groove ceiling. Bahama shutters sustain the airflow in the space: built-in heaters and a wood-burning fireplace extend the use of the porch year-round. For open-air living, a remote-controlled retractable screen raises to eliminate almost the entire western wall of the porch that faces the stunning pool area built by Eric Goode, enabling unobstructed flow between
After a day of entertaining, this house offers plenty of spaces for rest and respite. The primary bedroom is housed in its own wing off the entryway, and also boasts floor-to-ceiling windows on one full wall. A commissioned blonde oak bed, flanked by simply elegant floating side tables, grounds the room. The headboard wall is softened with Venetian plaster, and accented by a custom, built-in bookcase with undulating lines and unique niches built by Rob Thompson.
In the primary bath, natural hues, exceptional lighting and muted finishes create a zen feel. A soaker tub sits in front of the real star of the show, a walk-through, dual-head steam shower. Dark expanses of tile are accentuated with exquisite polished brass fixtures that give this retreat a classic, spa-like feel. The adjacent laundry room, built specifically for the primary suite, is a shining example of how this home was truly built for the way its owner wanted to live.
Thecentral stairs lead to three more bedrooms and a bunk room that sleeps four off the secondfloor landing, but the staircase in itself is remarkable. More than a utilitarian necessity, this staircase is a work of art that draws attention upon entering the home. Specially constructed with bendable sheetrock and Venetian plaster, the home’s plaster artist, Bridgette Speak, worked diligently to bring to life the homeowner’s desired design. The traditional shape of the staircase is complemented by smooth, organic curves, adding to the home’s emphasis on natural flow.
The stairs lead the eye up to an impactful art installation designed by Murphy Maude Interiors. Over a dozen sculpted rattan pendant lights hang in various lengths, playing again with form and function, and melding contemporary design with warm, natural materials.
“The homeowners wanted a space that was relaxed, organic and natural, but elevated,” describes Lesley Bell of Murphy Maude Interiors. “We hand-selected all of the interiors to fit their eclectic taste, choosing unique but casual pieces that never felt too heavy or boxy or refined.”
With these goals in mind, the design team has created a space that feels fresh and different, but also classic and comfortable. It’s as if the home has evolved into a collection of personalized spaces and moments, not newly built, but created over a long period of time. Even though the home has only existed for a second, its expert design will certainly last a century.
TEXT AND PHOTOS COURTESY OF BARBARA MAY, OWNER OF TRAVEL LEADERS
ITALY… OFF THE BEATEN PATH
DISCOVER HIDDEN ITALIAN TREASURES ON A JOURNEY FILLED WITH BEAUTY, CULTURE AND RELAXATION!
Imagine uncovering the heart of Italy like a true adventurer, meandering through its hidden gems and enchanting landscapes on a luxurious journey. On Sept. 15, 2025, Barbara May, owner of Travel Leaders, will set sail on the all-new Explorer II, the second luxury liner in the Explora Journeys fleet. The seven-day cruise will start in Rome, Italy, and end in Barcelona, Spain.
EXPLORA JOURNEYS is a new player in the luxury cruise industry, but has quickly distinguished itself through its commitment to excellence, elegance and exploration. Established as a brand under the prestigious MSC Group, Explora was envisioned to redefine luxury travel by offering intimate, bespoke experiences on the high seas. The line aims to provide discerning travelers with the ultimate cruise experience, combining cutting-edge design, innovative itineraries and unparalleled service.
Last month’s article featured Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast. This month, we are embarking on a journey to Palermo, Sicily, and the enchanting island of Sardinia, two more destinations on this remarkable itinerary, where guests can uncover hidden gems far from the typical tourist paths.
Palermo is perched on Sicily’s northern coast and is the island’s vibrant capital—a gateway brimming with historical richness and cultural diversity. Meanwhile, Sardinia beckons from the heart of the Mediterranean, renowned for its breathtaking beaches, rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty.
PALERMO is a treasure trove of history, culture and unmistakable charm. For over 2,700 years, the city has been a melting pot where various civilizations have left their indelible marks. Its streets are a living museum, showcasing stunning architecture that includes Arabic domes, Norman palaces and Baroque churches.
Walking through Palermo’s historic avenues is like stepping back in time. Byzantine mosaics stand alongside magnificent Greek temples and awe-inspiring Roman amphitheaters. Imagine the elegant harmony of Romanesque cathedrals blending seamlessly with overthe-top Baroque designs in a display of architectural splendor. Views of lava-strewn Mt. Etna in the distance add a dramatic backdrop to this enchanting city.
Palermo’s charm isn’t limited to its monuments; a visit there is an experience that caters to every kind of traveler. One of the biggest draws is the world-class Sicilian cuisine—a delightful blend of Arab spices, Greek influences, Spanish and French culinary techniques and some of the world’s finest seafood, all complemented by exceptional local wines. The city’s markets, cafes and upscale restaurants offer a symphony of flavors, from sweet cannoli to refreshing granita and savory arancini (stuffed rice balls).
This gastronomic journey is a significant reason why visitors are endlessly drawn to this Mediterranean gem. To become fully immersed in Sicilian culture, join a hands-on cooking class. Begin this culinary adventure in a lively food market, selecting fresh ingredients harvested from the island’s fertile landscapes. Guided by local chefs, craft a three-course Sicilian meal, unlocking the secrets of traditional recipes. The experience ends with a homemade feast with delicious flavors and time to bond with others over a shared love of food.
MAJOR LANDMARKS
Any exploration of Palermo must include the Palatine Chapel, renowned for its intricate mosaics that shimmer in the Mediterranean light. The Fontana Pretoria offers a breathtaking sight, its elegant sculptures reflecting Palermo’s grandeur. Piazza Politeama is the heart of the city’s vibrant life, while the historic Palazzo dei Normanni invites visitors to walk through its magnificent halls. The Cathedral of Palermo stands as an architectural marvel blending Norman and Arab influences, and Quattro Canti serves as the historical crossroads. The ancient square’s structures brim with tales from the past.
FOR IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCES, EXPLORE PALERMO WITH THESE POPULAR TOURS:
Sicilian Splendours: Palermo to Monreale Enjoy a scenic drive from Palermo to Monreale, visit Piazza Politeama and Teatro Massimo, and marvel at Monreale’s cathedral mosaics. Back in Palermo, visit the iconic cathedral and stroll through a local food market. Discover the Real Palermo: Take in panoramic
views from Monte Pellegrino, explore the Norman Palace and cathedral and visit Quattro Canti, Piazza Pretoria and Santa Caterina d'Alessandria church.
For a coastal escape, venture to Mondello Beach, just 25 minutes from Palermo. Enjoy its pristine sands, turquoise waters and activities like windsurfing, kite surfing, snorkeling and diving. Rent a pedal boat or book a boat tour to explore the stunning coastline and nearby islands, then savor fresh seafood at beachfront eateries.
In the heart of the Mediterranean lies SARDINIA , famous for its stunning beaches, rich heritage and unspoiled natural beauty. The island offers a diverse landscape where turquoise waters kiss white, sandy shores and rugged mountains stretch into the horizon. Every corner of the island tells tales of ancient history and tradition.
Sardinia’s overwhelming charm lies in its blend of ancient history and pristine natural beauty.
Sardinia is home to archaeological treasures including Nuraghes, unique stone structures from the Bronze Age that dot the landscape. The island’s cultural heritage is enriched by traditional festivals, folklore and artisanal crafts. Imagine stepping into a time machine that transports you to the Roman and Phoenician eras, with ruins that speak of a rich past waiting to be unearthed.
Upon arrival in the port of Cagliari, you’ll be charmed by the vibrant capital of Sardinia in which the past and present beautifully blend together. Wander through historical districts where every alley and piazza echo tales of yesteryear. Dive into bustling markets filled with local flavors and artisanal treasures. Don’t miss a leisurely stroll along the charming seafront promenade, where gentle sea breezes and stunning views promise relaxation and delightful discoveries at every turn.
The island’s Costa Smeralda is home to glamorous resorts and crystal-clear waters. Explore the La Maddalena Archipelago, a paradise of turquoise waters and sandy beaches, ideal for islandhopping enthusiasts. For both adventure and relaxation, Cala Luna beckons with its high cliffs, enchanting caves and breathtaking beachscape.
History fans will want to visit Su Nuraxi di Barumini, Sardinia’s best-preserved Nuraghe complex. The site provides a mesmerizing journey into the ancient Sardinian civilization. Each stone at this archaeological marvel tells a fascinating story, making visitors feel like explorers uncovering secrets from centuries past.
Food lovers will find Sardinia’s cuisine to be an irresistible delight. Try local favorites porceddu (roast suckling pig), culurgiones (stuffed pasta) and pane carasau (crispy flatbread). These traditional offerings are beautifully complemented by local wines such as Cannonau and Vermentino, which capture the essence of the island.
The next port of call is ALGHERO , located on Sardinia’s northwest coast. Often referred to as “Little Barcelona” due to its strong Catalan influences, this coastal city boasts medieval architecture, stunning beaches and a vibrant cultural scene. It’s an ideal destination for history buffs, beach lovers and food enthusiasts alike.
Watch the sun melt into the horizon from Alghero’s monumental towers, three sentinels that keep watch over ancient walls. Dive into the Coral Coast around Capo Caccia and discover underwater worlds teeming with graceful rays and the skeletons of ancient wrecks, then delve into Neptune’s secret grotto, burrowed between limestone cliffs and pebbly beaches.
Opt for a visit to the pretty town of Bosa, or Sassari, filled with churches and museums. Local wines are the perfect pour with lobster alla Catalana, plucked fresh from the deep blue sea.
From exploring archaeological sites to lounging on pristine beaches or tasting local delicacies, Sardinia promises an unforgettable adventure. This island, with its rich tapestry of experiences, is a paradise waiting to be explored.
Next month we will wrap up the profile of this wonderful cruise with the Balearic Islands and Barcelona, Spain.
Barbara May is the owner of Travel Leaders. The agency has been an industry innovator for over 38 years and specializes in all types of travel. May recently received the 2023/2024 Person of the Year award from the Collierville Chamber.
For more information on the group cruise, call Stephanie at Travel Leaders, 901.377.6600, or visit www. gotravelleaders.com. Offices are located at 2765 Wolf Creek Pkwy., Ste. 104, Memphis, and 155 N. Main St., Ste. 101A, Collierville, 901.853.6200, and are open by appointment only.
SEVEN REASONS TO TAKE A TUPELO ROAD TRIP
PLANNING A ROAD TRIP SOON? LOOK NO FURTHER THAN TUPELO, MISSISSIPPI. THIS DYNAMIC CITY, WHERE ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE, OFFERS A BLEND OF CULTURE, HISTORY AND MODERN ATTRACTIONS, MAKING IT A MUST-VISIT DESTINATION. HERE ARE SEVEN COMPELLING REASONS TO PACK YOUR BAGS AND HIT THE ROAD TO TUPELO.
CHANGE
FESTIVAL AND ROBINS STREET ART STROLL
Tupelo’s artistic spirit shines through events like the Change Festival and the Robins Street Art Stroll. Change Festival, scheduled for Aug. 30-Sept. 1, celebrates Tupelo’s unique skateboarding culture and features local vendors, live music and vibrant community energy. The Robins Street Art Stroll, set for Sept. 17, invites visitors to explore artwork displayed along Robins Street in an open-air gallery experience that is both refreshing and inspiring .
QUEEN ’S REWARD MEADERY
Queen’s Reward Meadery is the first and only meadery in the state. It offers a delightful variety of small-batch meads crafted from 100% Mississippi honey. Whether you prefer dry or sweet mead, you’ll find a flavor to love. Take a tour to enjoy tastings and learn about the fascinating process of mead-making. Sip your favorite variety on the expansive lawn or enjoy one of Queen’s Reward’s famous mead slushies.
TUPELO TRAILS
Tupelo’s trails invite visitors to explore the city’s rich culture and distinctive culinary scene. The Tupelo Cocktail Trail includes seven locations for sipping handcrafted libations. The It’s Electric: Neon Lights and Mural Sites Trail includes places to explore the local art scene and learn more about the city’s murals and neon signs. The All Shook Up: Elvis’ Tupelo Experience provides an insight into Tupelo’s native son with stops at 21 significant locations that help bring the king’s story to life. Each trail is accessible digitally by visiting tupelo.net/things-to-do/experiences, where you can download a passport and start exploring. Once you complete each trail, stop by the Tupelo Visitors Center to redeem a themed prize.
HOTEL TUPELO
Stay in style at Hotel Tupelo, where comfort meets Southern hospitality. This boutique lodging offers modern amenities and personalized service that will make any stay unforgettable. Its central location makes it easy to explore nearby attractions, dining and shopping districts. With 79 guest rooms, a bar and restaurant on-site, and an array of local amenities and a distinctive blend of luxury and convenience, Hotel Tupelo is the perfect base for your Tupelo adventure.
SHOPPING DISTRICTS
From back-to-school essentials to luxury items, Tupelo’s three shopping districts have it all covered. Downtown Tupelo offers a variety of unique boutiques and specialty shops, while the Barnes Crossing District, a larger retail center, provides a wide range of options. The Midtown District is home to local gift shops, clothiers and a florist. Discover regional crafts, fashionable finds and everything in between while exploring the city’s retail landscape .
RE STAURANTS
Tupelo’s culinary scene is a food lover's paradise. The menu at Crave will satisfy a sweet tooth with desserts including a delectable skillet cookie, accompanied by a gourmet coffee. For a taste of local flavors with a modern twist, visit Park Heights and discover the modern American menu. Take a trip up to the rooftop to get the best views of Downtown Tupelo. Start the day with a perfect cup of coffee at Lost + Found Coffee Co., a cozy spot that offers freshly brewed coffee, light bites and a warm atmosphere.
ELVIS PRESLEY BIRTHPLACE
No trip to Tupelo is complete without a visit to the Elvis Presley Birthplace. This historic site includes the humble two-room house where Presley was born, a museum that chronicles his life, and the original Assembly of God Church that he attended. Walk through the early years of the King of Rock ‘N’ Roll and gain insight into his roots and the influences that shaped his legendary career.
photo
$10,000
Hummus
RECIPE AND PHOTO COURTESY OF ANITA HARRIS
Anita Harris, who is of Lebanese descent, enjoys cooking for her family and friends. Many of her bestloved dishes are recipes that she learned as a child from her mother. Her homemade hummus has always been a hit—Lebanese or not, everyone loves it!
Ken Nelson, who was the catering director at the Peabody Hotel, loved her hummus so much that he suggested her to serve it at her three daughters’ wedding receptions held there. For years, she and Wes Kraker chaired the Marguerite Piazza Gala benefiting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at the Peabody, and Ken welcomed the hummus to be put on all the 90 guests tables to be served as an appetizer for the 900 guests to enjoy. One year during the gala’s live auction, a prominent local philanthropist jumped up and shouted to the auctioneer, “I will give $10,000 to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital for a bucket of this hummus!” Anita immediately yelled, “Sold!” The next morning, she made a gallon of her hummus. A driver from the hospital picked it up, delivered it to the man’s house and received the $10,000 check for St. Jude.
HUMMUS
2 16-oz. cans chickpeas, drained 1 cup sesame tahini
2 tsp. minced garlic (from a jar)
1 ½ Tbsp. salt
1 ½ cups bottled lemon juice
Add all ingredients to a food processor and blend until smooth. Enjoy with crackers, pretzels, pita chips or veggies. Makes a great afternoon snack!
For this and more recipes and entertaining ideas, follow Anita Harris on Instagram @adaywithanitaharris.
Wellness at Home during the School Year
sUMMER
break is coming to a close, and a new school year awaits. Preparing for the year ahead with an intentional plan to nurture your child’s physical, mental and spiritual well-being is key to ensuring a peaceful and joyful school year for your family.
As Abraham Maslow posits in A Theory of Human Motivation, all humans have a hierarchy of needs. Our physical needs must be met before we can fully engage emotionally and cognitively. Maslow asserts, and modern research supports, that meeting our physical needs, ensuring safety and security, and fostering belonging and love develop healthy selfesteem and enable us to fully realize our potential and purpose. Developing and nurturing physical, mental and spiritual well-being with intention is essential for functioning in everyday life experiences.
PRIORITIZING PHYSICAL WELLNESS
Our bodies are a hub of energy. So much is demanded of them daily that maintaining physical well-being becomes essential. By fueling our bodies with nutritious foods, engaging in regular physical activity and ensuring adequate rest, we enhance our energy levels and overall function. This energy is vital for daily tasks and long-term health. A wellnourished and active body can efficiently handle stress, recover from illness and maintain mental clarity. Prioritizing nutrition, physical movement and sleep is foundational to mental and cognitive wellbeing.
Nutrition: Plan nutritious meals and snacks that include a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and proteins. Involve your children in meal planning and preparation. Offer them choices and let them experiment with preparing meals and snacks using nutritious ingredients. Check out my favorite go-to meal sites at the end of this article.
Exercise: Physical activity is crucial for maintaining energy levels and overall health. Create a daily routine that includes time for outdoor play, sports or family walks. Encourage children to participate in activities they enjoy to establish lifelong healthy habits. My family enjoys taking regular walks sans phones. Morning walks set a positive tone for the day by connecting with nature and absorbing morning sunlight. Evening walks after dinner aid digestion and foster great connection and conversation.
Sleep: Adequate sleep is essential for cognitive function and emotional regulation. Establish a consistent bedtime routine to ensure your child gets the recommended amount of sleep for his or her age. Limit screen time before bed and create a calming bedtime environment to promote restful sleep.
FOSTERING MENTAL WELLNESS
Communication: Open communication is key to supporting your children’s mental well-being. Create a safe space for them to express their feelings and thoughts without fear of judgment. Harness curiosity, courage and compassion as you help your children navigate their emotions and thoughts. Daily check-ins can help you stay attuned to their emotional state and address concerns early.
Mindfulness: Incorporating mindfulness and relaxation techniques into your child’s routine can help manage stress and anxiety. Simple practices like breathing exercises can have a calming effect on the nervous system. An easy and effective breathing exercise is this: close your eyes or look downward and place your hands on your heart and navel as you observe your inhales and exhales.
Academics: Encourage an approach to academics that supports your child’s developmental stage and ability. While it's important to prioritize schoolwork,
STORY BY MICHELLE JOHNS MA, LPC-MHSP (TEMP), NCC, 200 HR E-RTY, 500 HR RYT
ensure that children also have time for relaxation and hobbies without an agenda or purpose. Accepting your child’s abilities and incorporating creative pathways for learning is essential to helping each child feel secure as a learner.
FOSTERING SPIRITUAL WELL-BEING
The essence of being a human is our spirit. It connects us to God, ourselves and each other.
Family Rituals: Establishing family rituals provides stability and fosters connection. Whether it’s a weekly family dinner, a Sunday nature walk or a nightly bedtime story, these rituals strengthen bonds and offer security. Daily and weekly rituals are vital for family connection. Research shows that parents are the most influential people in a child’s life. As a mental health therapist, my experiences with clients support this research. Your influence on your child comes from the time you invest in family activities and modeling positive values.
Personal Reflection: Encourage children to explore their beliefs and values. Opportunities for personal reflection through journaling, nature walks or
conversations about life’s big questions help develop individuality. While family unity is essential, supporting your child’s individuality within the family unit is equally important.
Positive Relationships: Foster positive relationships within the family. Model healthy communication and conflict resolution skills. Children develop unique ways of being in the world, and as a parent, it’s your job to nurture their individuality while instilling positive values. Encouraging family members to support and uplift each other creates a nurturing and loving home environment.
In conclusion, preparing for the school year with a holistic approach to wellness can set the stage for a successful and joyful experience for both you and your child. Prioritizing physical well-being is about empowering ourselves and teaching our children to live fully and vibrantly. As a parent, your well-being is important. Model self-care practices for your child by taking care of your own physical, mental and spiritual health. It will enable you to better support your child.
AUGUST 2024 SOURCES
HOME FEATURE
Special Thanks -
Uhlhorn Brothers ubros.com
Murphy Maude Interiors murphymaudeinteriors.com
Shapiro and Company shapiroandco.com
Annabella Charles annabellacharles.com
GETAWAY
Special ThanksTupelo CVB tupelo.net
TRAVEL
Special ThanksTravel Leaders
901.853.6200, 901.377.6600
HEALTHY YOU
Special ThanksMichelle Johns mjohns@transformingwellness.com
IN THE KITCHEN
Special Thanks -
Anita Harris @adaywithanitaharris
ON A GOOD NOTE
Special ThanksLucy J’s Bakery lucyjbakery.com
LUCY J’S BAKERY
Lucy J’s Bakery, located in Crosstown Concourse, is known for its ooey-gooey cinnamon rolls, croissants, fresh bread, birthday cakes and wedding cakes. Cofounders Josh and Tracy Burgess have been baking for 13 years and opened the shop in 2018 with a specific purpose. As a non-profit, the bakery serves as a job training program that offers wages starting at $15 per hour and a health plan to parents who are transitioning out of a period of homelessness through the Dorothy Day House.
The Burgess family has been involved with the Dorothy Day House since 2011. Through their volunteerism in those early years, they learned that many families lost their homes because they lost employment or had their hours cut to the point of not being able to
make ends meet. The solution was to create a space that could employ parents quickly and at a rate that would sustain their family life. Many parents start in customer service at the bakery, but they soon learn food preparation and production or cake decorating.
Josh is currently the executive director of Lucy J’s Bakery and Tracy serves as the executive director of the Dorothy Day House. Together, they are working to keep the dream alive. The bakery needs community support now more than ever.
Stop by the bakery at 1350 Concourse Ave., Suite 151 (between Global Cafe and Vibe Foods) to shop for a variety of sweet treats. Lucy J’s products can also be found at the Cooper Young Famer’s Market and the Memphis Farmers Market downtown every Saturday morning. Learn more at www.lucyjbakery.com or www.dorothydaymemphis.org.
TEXT BY TRACY BURGESS | PHOTO COURTESY OF LUCY J'S BAKERY
