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Somany people debate on when to decorate for Christmas. I believe that Christmas is a holiday season and Thanksgiving Day falls within that season, so anytime after Halloween is fair game for decorating in my book! Whether Christian or Jewish, there is no doubt that this time of year is a very religious period. As Christians, we celebrate the birth of our savior, a Jewish man, Jesus Christ. For my brothers and sisters of the Jewish faith, the festival of Hanukkah is celebrated as a commemoration of the rededication of the Second Temple of Jerusalem. Thanksgiving, to all Americans, is a day when we give thanks for all our blessings from our Father, as we are all children of God. So if you put your tree up early and surrounded it with pumpkins, I say good for you!
The Christmas season is one for all of us who cling to the Ten Commandments and believe in both the Old and New Testaments. It is a magical time when peace, joy and hope are a common denominator. One of my favorite Christmas stories took place on December 24, 1914, in the middle of a battlefield in France. The British troops witnessed candle-lit Christmas trees appearing in German trenches. It is written that two enemy nations both began singing the carol “Silent Night” in the middle of a war. The spontaneous ceasefire led to hundreds of thousands of soldiers celebrating the birth of the prince of peace. For a moment in time, I do believe “all was calm and all was bright.”
Merry Christmas, happy Hanukkah, peace, joy and hope to us all.
- Margaret Monger, PUBLISHER
Less is More
STORY BY TERRI GLAZER | DESIGN BY JENNIFER ESTES INTERIOR DESIGN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANNABELLA CHARLES PHOTOGRAPHY
"WhenI decorate for Christmas, I really feel like it should complement the room, not overtake the room. I think it should be a little bit more simplified and not take away from the beauty of the room as it is.” Jennifer Smith Estes’s less-is-more philosophy plays out beautifully in this home, and it’s no wonder. Not only did the Memphis-based designer fashion the holiday decor, she has worked with the owners for over a decade to customize the home perfectly for their family of five.
The Christmas tree in the living room is festive and elegant. “It’s a little bit non traditional.
Instead of hanging individual ornaments, I actually used a garland of gold ball ornaments and added white lights and bows,” Estes says. “I don’t tend to like a lot of different things on the tree. I still want to be able to see the tree. My goal is for the tree not to overpower the room and then the decorations not to overpower the tree.”
The mantel decor is in keeping with the theme Estes established on the tree, simple evergreen garland punctuated by a series of copper julep cups holding fresh white flowers. A golden star at each end reprises the metallic starbursts that accent the tree.
Gold
and white holiday embellishments continue in the adjoining dining room, blending gracefully with the space’s year-round decor. A bit of deep red on the table is a nod to the upholstery Estes chose for the dining chair seat cushions, a punched-up magenta textured velvet, when she originally designed the room a few years ago.
The fabric is a great example of the kind of touch Estes loves to add to a space such as this one with more traditional furnishings. Ditto for the Kelly Wearstler paper on the walls. The designer paired the oversized Graffito with a small-scaled pattern on the ceiling in an intentional move. “Some people ask why I would wallpaper the ceiling. When you add that texture, I feel like it creates a more intimate environment. It defines the space,” she says.
The very nature of the living and dining rooms is a bit out of the ordinary. The homeowners often flip the two spaces, moving the dining furniture to the front room to accommodate large family gatherings. Estes designed the area with that type of flexibility in mind, selecting a regency-style chandelier for the living room that looks at home whether it hangs over a seating area or dining table.
Added during a major remodel when the couple purchased the home 13 years ago, a chic bar area connects the dining room to the kitchen. The small spot packs a big punch, thanks in part to high-gloss blue paint applied to all the walls and trim. A white marble counter lightens the look, while swanky silver-leaf and glass tile on the backsplash ups the glam factor. Estes admits, “I always like a nice little surprise. I love a little jewel box of a space. It should be a small spot of perfection. You can do a lot in a little space without making it feel like it’s overdone.”
Juston the other side of the bar the kitchen and family room comprise the “hub of the home,” as Estes describes it. Always respecting her client’s feminine taste, but working within the reality that the family includes three school-age boys, she created a look that covers all the bases. “We used a lot of blues and beiges and neutrals… classic with some more modern fabrics on pillows. The drapery fabric is a traditional Osborne and Little, but the color scheme of it is a pretty modern set of colors.”
At first glance, the light neutrals on the sectional and chairs may seem an impractical choice for a room that’s often filled with teenage boys, but Estes has a secret weapon.
“Everything I’ve done in this house is performance fabrics,” she reveals, noting that beautiful and easy-clean upholstery is now so widely available, there’s no reason not to choose it.
Of course, the den Christmas tree is in keeping with the room’s overall feel. Estes suggested a flocked tree that wouldn’t stand out too boldly amid the soft white walls, light furniture and neutral rug. Preppy tartan plaid bows pop against the snowy background, as do groupings of glass balls, also in a range of blues and greens. “I think that by putting things in clusters, when I simplify and organize like that, I appreciate the tree more. It gets lost when it’s spread out. A more minimal use of materials makes for a tree that’s more pleasant to the eye,” she advises.
Thefamily’s informal dining area sits between the den and kitchen. Atop the trestle table, fresh flowers in crisp whites and navy blue velvet ribbon napkin ties convey the beauty of the season in a subtle and elegant way.
Subtle elegance also defines the kitchen, thanks to a total redo the owners completed before moving into the home. The team of Estes, architect Charles Shipp and contractor John Gambrell guided the project that included removing columns and installing a steel beam in the ceiling to achieve an open floor plan. White marble and stainless steel pair to create a classic feel. Crowning the space is a gleaming linear chrome chandelier from Robert Abbey Jonathan Adler, the perfect modern counterpoint to the kitchen’s traditional feel.
The most recent of the family’s multi-phase home renovation involved transforming a carport area. The addition created a new laundry room which Estes outfitted so cheerfully that the household chore must seem more like a joy. Its fun blue and white wallpaper and whimsical fabric repeat in the nearby mudroom area, where there’s a place to stow all the gear accumulated by three very active young people.
Along with the new utilitarian space, the addition provides a spot specifically for relaxation, a private place for Mom to read or watch TV away from the hustle and bustle. Estes outfitted her client’s cozy retreat with an inviting chaise sofa and a pair of barrel chairs, all upholstered in soft white with subtle patterns. A round cerused oak coffee table and a burl wood chest add natural texture and depth to the palette. Understated with just a touch of sparkle, this room’s holiday decor consists of a wreath on the window with a gold and white bow that brings out the colors of the drapes that hang alongside it, a pair of Estes’s signature mini fresh flower arrangements and a small grouping of bottle-brush and ceramic Christmas trees overseen by a handsome nutcracker in sparkly rose gold.
Like the rest of the seasonal trappings, the accessories convey holiday joy without commanding all the attention away from the beautiful decor that fills this home all throughout the year.
"I feel like the Christmas decor should blend seamlessly into the room. Less is more for me, always."
—Designer Jennifer Smith Estes
the Memphis Arts Collective Holiday Market
Text and Photos Courtesy of Memphis Arts Collective
Each year when the Christmas season rolls around, local shoppers and art lovers look forward to another edition of a Mid South institution—the Memphis Arts Collective Holiday Market. This year the market will be held at the Gattas Plaza at 4998 Summer Ave., next door to Knowledge Tree.
Ten new members have joined MAC recently, adding to the variety of artwork available this year. Participating artists at press time include AGinn Elements, Angi Cooper, Boo Mason (A Chick with a Brush), Cat Snyder, Cindy Uphoff, Combustion Ceramics, Don Blalock, Eric Echols, Feefifibby, The Garden of Aiden, The Green Orb, Gwynevere Jewelry, Jan Shively, Jennifer Hyatt Metal Art, Jennifer Williams, Leigh-Anne Sandlin, Midtown Glassworks, Nicola Tupis, Patricia Zachary, Sherry Robinson Designs, Snow Lake Pottery, Solstice Studios, Sandy Word, and Susan Ferkin (MLC Mosaics).
As a way of giving back to the community that generously supports artists, members of the collective select a local non-profit or charity every year to sponsor through the market. Each artist participating donates a piece of their work to a silent auction and all proceeds go to the sponsored charity. In addition, the selected organization is given a booth to sell items throughout the Holiday Market. This year’s event will benefit the Miracle League of Memphis. (memphismiracleleague.org)
The MAC Holiday Market is open 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Mon.-Sat., and noon5 p.m, Sun., through Dec. 23. The market will close at 4 p.m. on its final day, Dec. 24. Participating artists will demonstrate their crafts and offer hands-on art activities each Sunday at 1 p.m., starting Dec. 8.
The Memphis Arts Collective is a 501(c)(3) non-profit membership organization with over 30 members dedicated to supporting the creative endeavors of Memphis and Mid South artists and craftsmen and sharing their talents with the community. Members participate in the Holiday Market and additional pop-up shows in the spring and fall. The group’s 30-year history has been chronicled by long-time member Angi Cooper and can be found on the MAC website: www.memphisartscollective.com.
photo
"A GLOBAL YU le TIDE ADVENTURE: CE le BRATING CHRISTMAS WITH YOUR FAMILY"
TEXT AND PHOTOS COURTESY OF BARBARA MAY, OWNER OF TRAVEL LEADERS
Christmas is a time for family, togetherness and warm traditions. But what if this next year, rather than gathering around a familiar home tree, your family were to set off on a memorable journey to experience the magic of the season in a new destination? For families large and small, the holiday season becomes even more special when shared amidst vibrant cultures and festive celebrations around the world. Imagine your family gathered under the twinkling lights of a bustling European Christmas market, building sandcastles on a sun-soaked Caribbean beach, or basking in the glow of the northern lights in Lapland. These shared experiences not only create cherished memories but also deepen family bonds as you explore new traditions together.
Whether snowy wonderlands or sunny shores suit your group, incredible destinations abound that families adore during the festive season. Here’s where you might find your family's holiday magic:
NEW YORK CITY
New York City at Christmas is nothing short of spectacular, a vibrant display of lights and festive cheer. Experiencing the magic of NYC during the holiday season is definitely a bucket-list vacation. Glide across the iconic Rockefeller Center ice rink, surrounded by the towering Christmas tree adorned with thousands of twinkling lights and a dazzling star. At Macy’s you can meet Santa and experience a whimsical world that brings the classic Christmas movie Miracle on 34th Street to life. Stunning choreography and Tchaikovsky’s timeless music make The Nutcracker at Lincoln Center a cherished holiday tradition. Blanketed in snow, Central Park becomes an enchanting playground. Take a carriage ride, go sledding on Pilgrim Hill or enjoy a peaceful walk through the serene snowy landscape.
New York City embraces Christmas with open arms, offering enchanting experiences at every corner. It’s a place where holiday dreams come true, from iconic attractions to hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
LAPLAND, FINLAND
Imagine your family bundled up among snow-draped trees, watching Santa’s reindeer sail across the pristine landscape in Lapland, Finland. This ultimate Christmas fantasy comes to life with heartwarming experiences like a visit to Santa’s enchanting workshop in Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus. Holiday cheer is around every turn.
Adventurers will find delight in unique activities from exhilarating husky safaris and snowmobiling across frozen lakes to serene ice fishing trips, a genuine Arctic experience.
As the Aurora Borealis illuminates the sky in a mesmerizing dance, soak in the spectacle from the comfort of a glass igloo at Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort or the charming SnowHotel in Kemi, sculpted entirely of ice and snow. After a day of thrilling activity, gather fireside to enjoy warm cocoa and local delicacies like smoked salmon or traditional reindeer stews, capturing the essence of comfort and joy.
Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Lapland’s indigenous Sami people, learning about their culture, crafts and cuisine. Delight in the charm of Finnish Christmas markets or indulge in spa treatments that melt away holiday stress using natural Arctic ingredients. With daily reindeer feedings, enchanting forest walks and cozy fireside gatherings, it’s hard to imagine a more authentic and magical winter holiday than Christmas in Lapland. Whether you’re exploring kid-friendly workshops or witnessing the magic of the northern lights, Lapland offers the quintessential winter wonderland experience for families.
LONDON, ENGLAND
Christmas in London has timeless appeal—chalk it up to the decorated Georgian townhouses, lively pubs and a dash of Dickensian charm.
Ice skate under the idyllic backdrop of Somerset House or walk hand-in-hand through the Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park. London’s Christmas lights are nothing short of magical. A stay at the Claridge is a must; there’s no better place to ring in Christmas than in one of the best hotels on the planet.
ROME, ITALY
Italy is a spectacular destination year-round, but visiting during Christmas offers a magical blend of culture, tradition and festive charm that’s truly special. Here Christmas traditions are rooted in history and culture. From the Feast of the Immaculate Conception to Epiphany, Italians celebrate numerous festive events with deep religious meaning.
Beautiful nativity scenes known as “presepi” decorate homes, churches and public squares throughout the country. Naples is particularly famous for its artisan-crafted presepi. Italian Christmas markets, or “mercatini di Natale,” offer a cozy, bustling atmosphere with regional food specialties, handmade crafts and decorations. The markets in cities like Rome, Florence and Milan are a must-visit.
Midnight Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica is a must while in Rome on Christmas Eve. This profoundly moving experience encourages spiritual reflection set amid awe-inspiring architecture.
QUEBEC CITY, CANADA
Step into a real-life snow globe in Quebec City. One of the oldest cities in North America, Quebec’s colonial French architecture gives it an unmistakably European feel. Delight in the enchanting German Christmas Market or stroll through cobblestone streets where carolers’ songs fill the frosty air.
Located in the heart of Old Quebec, the enchanting German Christmas Market brings a touch of Europe to Canada. Highlights include traditional German food, unique crafts and sparkling ornaments. It’s a perfect spot for holiday shopping and sipping on warm glühwein (mulled wine).
A visit to the historic Cathedral-Basilica of Notre-Dame de Québec offers a peaceful respite during the holiday hustle and bustle. It’s especially stunning when decorated for Christmas, and special services fill its calendar during the season. The sounds of Christmas surround visitors to Quebec City as local choirs and street performers fill the air with joyful tunes.
WALT DISNEY WORLD, FLORIDA
Picture your kids’ eyes lighting up as they step into a magical kingdom where even the most grown-up guests can’t resist smiling. Disney World is pure festive wonder, with sparkling parades and holiday cheer at every turn. The parks and resorts are decked out with spectacular decorations at Christmas. Each location has unique themed holiday decor that is worth discovering, from the glittering Cinderella Castle to the life-sized gingerbread house at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is a festive evening full of holiday cheer in Magic Kingdom. The event features a special parade, spectacular fireworks and an exclusive show on the castle stage. The Candlelight Processional at EPCOT is a beautiful retelling of the Christmas story by a celebrity narrator, accompanied by a choir and orchestra. It is an enchanting tradition that many visitors cherish.
THE CARIBBEAN
Tired of the cold weather yet? Picture your family dressed in swimsuits instead of sweaters as you bask in the Caribbean’s sunny embrace. Resorts cater to all ages, offering an escape where you build sandcastles together instead of snowmen. The slower pace of island life allows for meaningful time with loved ones away from the usual holiday rush.
Savor elaborate Christmas dinners featuring local and international cuisine prepared by top chefs, ensuring your holiday meal is both delicious and memorable. Live entertainment, from local Christmas caroling to high-energy performances, ensures that every night is filled with excitement.
Beaches Resorts are ideal for families with all ages of children. The properties go all out with Christmas events, including holiday dinners, themed parties and visits from Santa, who arrives by boat or jet ski. It’s a sure bet that a holiday spent at a Beaches Resort will be relaxing and fun.
PARK CITY, UTAH
Park City is an epic winter wonderland. So much more than a ski resort, the area is ideal for snowshoeing, ice skating, snow biking and more. The former Olympic city also offers for fly fishing, snowmobiling and dog sledding— with no shortage of resorts to warm up in between runs. There’s something for the winter sports enthusiast and for those who want to relax and enjoy serene, snowy landscapes. Historic Main Street, adorned with twinkling holiday lights, sets a picturesque scene for strolling and holiday shopping.
Families enjoy activities like the traditional Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade at Deer Valley Resort, where Santa Claus makes a captivating entrance down the ski slopes. It’s a spectacular event for all ages. Sip hot cocoa and meet Mrs. Claus during the 90-minute North Pole Express train ride at Heber Valley Railroad. It’s sure to
bring on the Christmas spirit.
The breathtaking backdrop of the Wasatch Mountains makes for unparalleled views and serene settings, ideal for holiday photography and capturing family memories.
WE HOPE YOU HAVE ENJOYED DISCOVERING THE MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS AROUND THE WORLD
As the festive season approaches, an undeniable magic fills the air, and each corner of the world has its own unique way of celebrating. Whether you’re drawn to the sunsoaked beaches of the Caribbean, the timeless appeal of Rome, the snowy wonderlands of Lapland or cosmopolitan fun in New York, a holiday away offers unique and memorable family time.
Consider giving the adventure of travel this holiday season. Travel Leaders gift certificates allow your loved ones to embark on a magical journey. Imagine giving the joy of a dream vacation or a relaxing retreat—beautifully wrapped in the spirit of adventure. Whether you’re planning a getaway for yourself or giving an unforgettable experience, Travel Leaders professionals can assist every step of the way. Owned by Barbara May, the agency has been making travel dreams come true for over 39 years.
Barbara May is the owner of Travel Leaders. Travel Leaders has been in the travel industry for over 39 years and the agency is specialized in all types of travel!
For more information planning your next vacation, give Travel Leaders a call at 901-8536200 or 901-377-6600. Travel Leaders main location is at 2765 Wolf Creek Parkway, Ste. 104 (next door to David’s Bridal), Memphis, TN 38133 and in Collierville we are located at 155 N. Main St. Suite 101A. Both locations are by appointment only.
Fun Festive&
STORY BY TERRI GLAZER | EVENT DESIGN BY SOUTHERN BLOOM FLORAL PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANNABELLA CHARLES PHOTOGRAPHY
Around
the holidays, parties tend to be large-scale with rooms full of people celebrating. This tablescape and tree by Southern Bloom’s Kelly Freeland prove that small and intimate can be just as festive.
Freeland blended traditional and unexpected elements and colors to create a finished product that exudes holiday whimsy. “It’s all about adding personal touches and mixing,” she says. “You don’t have to go buy all new
things. It makes a fun combination of old and new and it doesn’t all have to feel so overwhelming, like you have to start from scratch every single year. Maybe you have your grandmother’s china or silver. I used some silverplated goblets that I have collected over the years, but then mixed them with glass trees that you can find in so many local retailers this year.”
Thetablescape’s base layer, a full-length white damask tablecloth, has a modern pattern to keep the look from going too formal. Atop a red linen placemat and a green cabbage plate Freeland cleverly used as a charger, she placed classic Spode Christmas Tree china. Heirloom sterling flatware, along with crisp white dinner napkins dressed up with a seasonal monogram, add holiday cheer.
The centerpiece blends customary colors with shades taken from the china—pinks, blues and yellows. “I like to encourage people to think about mixing pattern and color,” says Freeland. “Even if your home is super neutral, mixing in just a bit of festive can be fun.” Blush roses mingle with red and white florals and greenery. Whimsy abounds thanks to an assortment of Christmas trees in funky retro tones. “Mixing fresh elements and hard goods makes something really fun and unexpected,” she adds.
Freeland repeated the pink, red and white theme on the nearby tree. Multiple sizes of round ornaments in those colors, satin and velvet ribbon in shoestring bows, and a bit of tinsel create an elegant look that’s easy to replicate. Freeland says, “My best tip for decorating a tree is that it doesn’t have to be complicated. You could collect special ornaments with similar shapes, balls or finials or teardrop shapes. Add a simple topper, whether that’s a star or a ribbon or whatever. I love mixing ribbons, mixing patterns again.”
“The most fun thing about decorating for the holidays is that you can take something that your great grandmother might have had, but then you add a little bit of something to it, and it gives it such a whimsical, magical look that I feel like fits into every home.”
—Kelly Freeland, owner of Southern Bloom
“I grew up in a family of women who knew how to take care of people. I think that has helped my business grow; my clients feel very taken care of. It’s not just the flowers and decor; I also make sure that they’re having a great experience.”
—Kelly Freeland
Kelly
Freeland’s Southern Bloom recently marked 11 years in the floral design and event planning business. Based in Memphis, Freeland and her team have worked throughout the Mid South and beyond.
The business was born when Freeland agreed to help a friend with the decor for her wedding reception. When the ceremony flowers made by the local small-town florist were delivered, they weren’t what the bride had envisioned, so Freeland stepped in. “I’d never even made a bridal bouquet before, but there I was at the eleventh hour, tearing it apart and remaking it to make sure it was the way she wanted it. It was an adrenaline rush!” she says. Floral design soon became her full-time job, with event planning and coordination added to the mix a short time later.
“I have always loved flowers and entertaining,” says Freeland. “That comes from my grandmother and my mother. My grandmother loved flowers. I learned hospitality and how to entertain well from those two women. Even if it was just a family birthday dinner, there was always a pretty table set with flowers from my grandmother’s backyard. I learned from an early age that little things like that can make people feel really special and welcome.”
Caring for Your Mind, Body, and Spirit During the Holidays
STORY BY MICHELLE JOHNS MA, LPC-MHSP (TEMP), NCC, 200 HR E-RTY, 500 HR RYT
Many of us feel the pull between the festive holiday energy and the natural slowing down of shorter days and cooler weather this time of year. While joyful, the season can also be challenging as you seek to find harmony with gatherings, gift giving, and the need for rest and restoration. Prioritizing care for yourself can help you end this year and begin the next feeling sustained and refreshed.
Here are some simple tips to help you make the most of this season.
NOURISH YOUR BODY WITH SEASONAL FOODS
Each season brings a bounty of foods that naturally support the immune system and boost mood. Leaning into winter’s foods can help keep energy levels steady and immune defenses strong.
• R OOT VEGETABLES: Sweet potatoes, carrots and beets provide a grounding energy. Rich in beta-carotene and other antioxidants, they help reduce inflammation and keep skin healthy. Filled with vitamins A, B, C, D, E, K, alpha- and beta-carotene, juiced carrots are one of my favorite ways to nourish my body.
• CITRUS FOR A VITAMIN C BOOST: Oranges, grapefruits and lemons provide a great boost of vitamin C. Including citrus fruits in your diet supports immune function and provides fresh, vibrant flavor to lift your mood.
• W ARMING HERBS AND SPICES: Spices like ginger, cinnamon and turmeric don’t just make food taste good—they also offer anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. Adding them to soups, teas and baked goods helps keep you warm and supports digestion.
WINTER SELF-CARE ROUTINES
Winter invites us to slow down, but that can be difficult when life’s demands don’t ease up. Creating simple winter self-care routines can help you honor the season’s energy while giving you space to recharge.
• CRE ATE A COZY SPACE: A cozy space at home can help you relax and enjoy the slower pace of winter. Blankets, soft lighting, candles and soothing music can transform your home into a winter sanctuary. Taking time each day to enjoy your space can be a grounding practice.
• PRIORITIZE REST AND SLEEP: With winter’s short days and long nights, our bodies crave rest. Listen to your body and aim to establish a healthy sleep routine. Turn off screens an hour before bed, unwind with a book, or practice relaxation breathing to prepare for sleep.
• S TAY ACTIVE WITH GENTLE MOVEMENT: While the colder weather might discourage While the colder weather might discourage outdoor exercise, movement is essential for mood and circulation. Yoga, stretching or a walk can lift energy. Sunlight exposure can improve mood and boost vitamin D.
•
SELF -REGULATION PRACTICES TO LIMIT HOLIDAY STRESS
Holiday celebrations, while joyous, can bring stress from. Setting limits for yourself can help you stay centered and navigate challenges with peace.
• BRE ATHE THROUGH STRESS: A simple yet powerful tool, mindful breathing can instantly calm the nervous system. When you feel overwhelmed, take a few moments
to breathe naturally with your eyes closed. Breathe in and out through your nose with exhales longer than inhales. This helps engage your body’s relaxation response.
• SET INTENTIONAL LIMITS: The holidays often come with exhausting expectations. Check in with yourself and determine what feels most meaningful to you. Saying “no” to some invitations or simplifying plans can free up time for more important activities.
• PRA CTICE GRATITUDE AND REFLECTION: Winter is a natural time for reflection, as the year draws to a close. Each day, take a moment to focus on something for which you’re grateful, no matter how small. Thinking about things that nourished your soul this year can shift your focus from stress to appreciation and hope.
As you move through the holiday season, add these simple practices to your schedule. By nourishing your body with seasonal foods, establishing comforting self-care routines and embracing mindfulness, you’ll be better equipped to handle the holidays and enter the new year refreshed and grounded.
Spinach Madeline
SPINACH MADELINE
RECIPE BY MARGARET
MONGER
THIS IS ONE OF MY FAVORITE SPINACH RECIPES, AND FOR SOME CRAZY REASON, I ONLY MAKE IT DURING THE HOLIDAYS. IT IS SUPER EASY AND CAN BE MADE A COUPLE DAYS IN ADVANCE. JUST PUT IT IN THE FRIDGE UNTIL READY TO BAKE. I HAVE EVEN SERVED IT WITH TOAST POINTS AS A DIP. ENJOY!
INGREDIENTS:
24 oz. frozen chopped spinach, cooked and drained (with drained liquid reserved)
4 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
4 Tbsp. all-purpose flour
1 cup milk
½ cup spinach cooking liquid
2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
1½ tsp. celery salt
1½ tsp. garlic salt
1 tsp. freshly ground black pepper Kosher salt to taste
2 cups pepper jack cheese, divided ½ cup panko breadcrumbs mixed with 1 tbsp. melted butter
TO MAKE:
Preheat the oven to 425°F. Spray a 3-qt. baking dish with nonstick cooking spray, and set aside. Defrost the frozen spinach. (I put it in a glass bowl and microwave for 4-5 minutes.) Drain well but save the liquid. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the flour, and stir until the onions are coated. Cook for a few minutes until the flour begins to turn golden brown. Slowly pour in the milk and spinach liquid, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. Add the Worcestershire, celery salt, garlic salt, black pepper and kosher salt to taste. Remove from the heat. Add 1½ cups of pepper jack cheese and the cooked, drained spinach. Stir until the ingredients have melted together, then transfer to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the additional pepper jack on top of the casserole and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the cheese is browned. Sprinkle with buttered bread crumbs.
HOME FEATURE
Special Thanks -
Jennifer Estes Interior Design
jenniferestes.com
Annabella Charles annabellacharles.com
ENTERTAINING
Special Thanks -
Southern Bloom shopsouthernbloom.com
Annabella Charles annabellacharles.com
Special ThanksMemphis Arts Collective memphisartscollective.com
TRAVEL
Special ThanksTravel Leaders
901.853.6200, 901.377.6600
HEALTHY YOU
Special Thanks -
Michelle Johns mjohns@transformingwellness.com
Priscilla Presley Set to Speak at A Night to Shine, the Unknown Child Foundation’s 15th Anniversary Celebration
UNKNOWN CHILD
FOUNDATION | INCORPORATED
The Unknown Child Foundation will host A Night to Shine at the Landers Center in Southaven, MS, on Dec. 16 at 6:30 p.m. This special event is so much more than a celebration; it’s a chance to come together and remember the 1.5 million children who perished during the Holocaust, and to support an important next step in the foundation’s work. With cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, a silent auction, and a special appearance by Priscilla Presley, the night will surely be unforgettable.
Over the past 15 years, the Unknown Child Foundation has been focused on making sure Holocaust children’s stories are never forgotten. A memorial to them has been on display for the last seven years at the DeSoto County Museum in Hernando, MS, serving as a reminder of the devastating loss of innocent lives. Now the foundation leaders hope to take its mission further.
The goal is to create a traveling exhibit—a replica of a WWII-era boxcar like those used to transport children and families to concentration camps. The exhibit will tell the stories of children
whose lives were taken, and teach visitors about the dangers of hatred. By bringing this history to schools, museums and communities across Mississippi, Tennessee and beyond, the Foundation hopes to inspire a greater sense of understanding.
Proceeds from the event will help bring the traveling boxcar exhibit to life. Every sponsorship secured and ticket purchased, along with funds raised through the silent auction and donations, will help make the project a reality, allowing the foundation to expand its reach and continue its mission of education and remembrance.
Presley will be A Night to Shine’s featured speaker, sharing why Unknown Child is special to her and why it has caught her attention. The evening’s silent auction will feature unique items and experiences. Attendees will have not only an opportunity to enjoy a festive evening, but also to play a part in bringing an important project to life.
Tickets and sponsorships are available at event.gives/unknownchildfoundation. For more information about the Unknown Child Foundation and its mission, visit unknownchild.org.
