Designer Cap Green of Design Brief Interiors updates her Memphis home to stay true to the style of the neighborhood with a lively feel.
42 | EXPERIENCE THIS Jackson, MS, radiates as a food and wine destination with warm hospitality, on display at the 2025 Food & Wine Festival..
52 TRAVEL The Wonders Down Under
70 IN THE KITCHEN Creamy Taco Soup for you
42 EXPERIENCE THIS Jackson Food & Wine Festival
66 HEALTHY YOU Wellness at Home Building Deeper Connections with Loved Ones—and Ourselves
74 ON A GOOD NOTE Families Matter
FEBRUARY 2025 • VOL. 23 NO. 11
PUBLISHER / EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
MARGARET MONGER | mmonger@athomemms.com
MANAGING EDITOR
AUBREY ANN MONGER | aamonger@athomemms.com
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GINNI JONES | gjones@athomemms.com
COPY EDITOR
TERRI GLAZER
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CHARLES REYNOLDS | cr@colorretouching.com
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HILARY FRANKEL | hafrankel@comcast.net
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
GAIL HARRELL | gharrell@athomemms.com
CHRIS PUGH | chrisapugh@gmail.com
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS
TRIP MONGER | tmonger@athomemms.com
MARKETING AND CIRCULATION
HARRIET W. DEATON | hdeaton@athomemms.com
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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
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.
There are so many things to look forward to in February! After one of the coldest Januarys I can remember, we will anxiously wait for Phil to arise from his humble abode to let us know if we need to continue to stock up on firewood, bread and milk, or if we can let our guard down and prepare for spring. By the way, Mr. Phil is allegedly 138 years old and still has his mind. I googled it!
Then we will celebrate the Super Bowl. Although, as I write this, we are down to four teams, I am really hoping for a Chiefs and Redskins match up, and yes, I still call them their original name that everyone thought was fine for 87 years. What a fun game that would be—the Chefs vs the Redskins! We get a few days break, then Cupid comes to town for Valentine’s Day! And finally on the 17th we will celebrate President’s Day. A day that originally was intended to celebrate the birthdays of George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, in the 1980s it was changed to celebrate the office of the presidency. February brings us so many celebrations, and although the outcomes are unsure at the time, one thing is certain and that is God is in control, not us.
Although I am looking forward to spring, I also love the everyday celebrations we are given. From Super Bowl parties to at-home Valentine dinners, baby showers and just friends getting together, our homes provide us with the perfect space for us to celebrate with our families, in the way that we enjoy most. I am so thankful for the beautifully unique homes we are able to share with you each month, the places we like to visit, healthy advice and great food to share with our families and friends and, as always, so thankful for all of you who inspire us to continue!
- Margaret Monger, PUBLISHER
Asdesigner Cap Green and her husband moved to several different cities over the past 12 years for his training as a physician, she learned how to make the most of a space. In the beginning those spaces were small—a tiny spot in Brooklyn, NY, and a one-bedroom Pittsburgh apartment. “It was really good for me as a designer to learn how to optimize small spaces so they function effortlessly. That didn’t come easily at first, but now it’s a central focus in my work,” says Green, owner of recently launched local firm Design Brief.
The couple and their two young sons moved to Memphis almost three years ago and purchased a house in Kirby Woods. No longer dealing with a lack of square footage, Green found a new
challenge in giving the home its first update since it was built in 1969. She recalls, “The previous owner built this home with her husband over 50 years ago. She cared for everything meticulously, which was really lucky for us. Although the house wasn’t particularly our style, the materials and bones were all solid. It just needed a little facelift.”
Not everyone shared Green’s opinion about how the structure should be revamped. A contractor suggested knocking down walls and creating an open floor plan, but she stayed true to her vision. “I really like designated spaces, and so we tried to keep that here,” she explains. “I think what we’ve done stays true to the East Memphis format, but in a slightly more lively way.”
designed the living room as a spot for grown-ups, away from the children’s play space. “I wanted to keep this room luxe and fun. We host a lot, and this is always the space the grown-ups gravitate towards. We’re either playing music at the piano, pouring a glass of bourbon at the bar cart or reading a book in front of the window. It’s our little speakeasy— just a bit more feminine,” she says, explaining the addition of several pieces of art featuring female subject matter. Here, as in most of the rooms, she kept the color backdrop neutral, adding oomph in rugs, textiles and art. Neutral doesn’t equate to plain, however, as the living room wallpaper proves. The Cole & Son cloud print adds depth and texture while remaining subtle.
Furnishings reflect Green’s eclectic taste. The melange includes new pieces, a button-tufted Four Hands sofa, as well as thrift-shop treasures, an antique brass bar cart, and estate-sale finds, a vintage Oriental rug she prizes for its beauty and durability. “These wool rugs are all over my house. It doesn’t matter what happens to them, you can always clean them up and they look new. I think that’s an interesting aspect of designing for families. You don’t have to use IKEA or things you can get rid of in a few years. As long as you choose durable materials they can function for families and even become heritage pieces that are passed down for generations.”
Custom linen drapes in a retro-inspired pattern speak to design trends popular when the home was built. Green repeated the dramatic window treatments in the adjoining dining room, where she added vintage Italian candle sconces she found on Chairish.
The idea was to create a transition into color from the kitchen, where the palette is dominated by natural finishes and light neutrals. Neutral, again, but definitely not plain. From the floor up, the space is a study in both beauty and practicality. Green kept the original galley floor plan, despite admonitions that it was too small. She says, “The galley-style kitchen still functions so well. I actually love the functionality of it, because you’re not running all over the room or dodging a big island. There’s no wasted space, everything is used.”
New cabinets in a soft white, Shadow Storm quartzite countertops and backsplashes of mini subway tiles in Carrara marble create an elegant look. More honed Carrara, alternated with gris marble tiles and laid in a diamond pattern, accentuates the traditional feel, while open shelving by the window provides a timely element.
Thearea at the rear of the kitchen received a more major revamp, conceived by Green using her talent for creating functional spaces. The former breakfast area now holds a pair of swivel armchairs and an antique oval side table. Centered on a large bay window, the vignette makes a cozy spot for reading or conversation. Roman shades in a Chinoiserie fabric sourced from Premier Fabrics in Germantown and constructed by EP Custom Window Coverings add a touch of whimsy, because, “Every room needs a little bit of unexpected fun!” as Green says.
Green transformed the original laundry/mud room/storage area into separate spaces: a “small but mighty” dedicated laundry room; a wall of pantry cabinets; and a chic coffee bar, a must have for the couple.
Although Green says the den is her children’s space, it bears little resemblance to a typical playroom. Anchored by an oversized oriental rug in deep jewel tones, the decor includes an extra-deep sofa big enough for the whole family, an overstuffed swivel chair and a crosshatch rattan Joss and Main coffee table that’s as sturdy as it is stylish. “The other day the boys were dancing on it,” their designer mom says with a laugh.
Going against her neutrals-on-the-walls principle, Green chose to color drench the primary bedroom walls and trim in Farrow & Ball Pigeon, a moody gray green. Benjamin Moore White Dove on the ceiling creates height and keeps the space from becoming cavelike. A vintage-style mirror with a graceful curved top looks right at home atop a bleached oak dresser with a pure mid-century vibe. Art and textiles, including full-length drapes mounted on custom rods from local metal fabricator Twisted Dimensions, reflect a bit of Asian influence.
Eachof Green’s sons has his own bedroom. The older boy, who his mother says wakes up with his own to-do list in his head every morning, has plenty of space for his creative pursuits. Along with a work table at just the right height for a little guy, his room is large enough to hold a funky and fun yellow bookshelf, an artist’s easel, two twin beds and a double dresser. A colorful diptych by local artist Marc Young was the room’s design starting point. Pepper Home Hockney print fabric, an energetic abstract, looks adorable on a custom scalloped Roman shade and valance covering the generously sized window. “These are from Florence, SC,” Green says of the nautical signal flags hanging over the beds. My friend got them for me from a real sailboat. A little bit of patina adds character to the room, I think.”
The baby of the family has a nursery fit for a prince, although he now prefers to sleep in his big brother’s extra twin bed. Above an antique-style iron crib, Anthropologie’s Athena Tapestry, a paper wall hanging with a woodsy, elemental feel looks as though it came straight from the pages of a storybook. Ditto for a pair of rabbit prints Green found in an antique store. “I love Beatrix Potter, but I didn’t want to have a ‘theme’ nursery so we just used a little bit of the hares here and there,” she says.
The brothers share a hall bath that initially presented a couple of design challenges. She worked around both beautifully. The first was floor tile with light brown specks. Green explains, “This hex tile is original to the home and still in great condition. Before the renovation the walls were painted the same color of the specks in the tile, and it was all you saw. The idea was to create an optical illusion. We wrapped the walls in a robust but feminine pattern so that you kind of don’t even notice the tile—the specks just go away.” The classic William Morris Pure Pimpernel pattern, designed in 1876, does the trick flawlessly. Secondly, the room’s single small closet didn’t provide enough storage space. Green’s solution? A trough sink. "We thought about doing double sinks for our boys, but then we would lose so much storage and functioning drawers. We went with this trough sink, and I love it so much. Each of the boys has his own little faucet, which is great for getting dressed in the morning. They still brush their teeth at the same time, but they have their own set of drawers, too.”
These clever solutions and many more throughout the home show the mark of good design—to be purposeful and beautiful, classic and timely, chic and family friendly all at once.
new to the Mid South, designer Catherine “Cap” Green founded design brief last year with the goal of bringing accessible, luxe interiors to clients inclined toward a do-ityourself attitude. The abbreviated design service delivers a full, complete brief of a design plan that clients then implement at their own pace. “I’ll come up with a great floor plan for a room, and then I’ll also pick out every piece of furniture. I don’t do the purchasing, I don’t schedule deliveries, I don’t work with contractors. I present clients the plan and they can complete it on their own timeframe,” says Green.
The English major and former literature teacher honed her design skills while living in New York. “I worked with Eddie Ross, a true icon in all things styling, thrifting and decorating. We got to do styling for HGTV, Better Homes and Gardens, House Beautiful and other magazines. That’s where it kind of all sparked,” she says.
“The overall goal was to create a space that feels updated and fresh, but we didn't want to wipe the slate clean. Keeping some of the original features brought out a bit of character and helped the home have those cozy elements that are so inviting. "
— Designer Cap Green
JACKSON FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL IS HAPPENING MARCH 14-15, 2025. Jackson, MS, shines as a food and wine fest destination. The city has a storied culinary past with restaurants like Big Apple Inn and Mayflower Cafe still going strong. Today, a number of award-winning chefs display their talent nightly. Jackson also happens to possess what may be the most important ingredient in any recipe: warm hospitality.
The 2025 JXN Food & Wine Festival, set for Mar. 14-15, is a chance for the city to showcase all those assets and more—with a few surprises to boot. As Chef Chair Nick Wallace says, “This year we’re really going to mix things up. For starters, we have lots more of my friends coming. We have Marc Bynam from Birmingham who’s coming. Marc’s going to be bringing authentic New York flavors from his time spent cooking there. We also have my friends Gabriel Pascuzzi, Jackson Kalb, and Michelle Wallace. A lot of my friends are going to be here, and we’ll all be competing in a friendly way.”
JXN Food & Wine 2025 will continue the tradition of decadently delicious food to enjoy. The fest accomplishes this feat by featuring only the best of the best. Food prepared by more than 30 local and regional chefs, handcrafted beverages, live entertainment, and guests from across the country are just a few of the highlights in store.
Mississippi restaurateurs, a James Beard winner and nominees, and international cuisine specialists are among the diverse culinary standouts slated to take part in the event. Both the Friday Feast and Saturday's main event will provide ample opportunity to satisfy even the most discerning appetites.
Here’s what some of the chefs have to say:
NICK WALLACE
“[For] this year’s festival, we’re expanding our footprint. We’re bringing on Friday Feast at a new place, the old Sun-n-Sand Motel: The new Hen & Egg. We’re creating a two-seating dinner featuring three of my friends—Enrika Williams, Gabriel Pascuzzi and Vishwesh Bhatt. We’re going to do a four-course meal, elevated cocktails. It’s going to be a great experience.”
GENO LEE
“You know why people come to Mississippi? Because we are a flavor state. People come from all over the world to taste what we have. We are known for our cuisine, and I don’t think we’re going to disappoint. Make sure you come down.”
DAMIEN CAVICCHI
“We’re excited to be a part of this year’s festival. We’re going to go out there and have fun and hope you guys can come out there with us and experience the hospitality that we have here in Jackson, the beautiful city, and just have a great time over food and drink. It’s a don’t-miss event.”
BRIAN MYRICK
“When you get here, you get to feast on different stations, different chefs of different restaurants and, you know, the festival brings people together having a good time and enjoying some great food and wine. I'm very excited about bringing the shrimp and grits. I believe people will enjoy it 100 percent.”
HUNTER EVANS
“Some of my favorite things about showing up are seeing the community, getting to meet other chefs, and, of course, all the great food and wine and drinks that will be available. The Mississippi Museum of Art (location of the JXN Food & Wine Festival) is one of the most beautiful spaces in downtown Jackson, and we’re going to bring our French cuisine with a little Southern twist. Hope to see you there!”
FULL LIST OF JXNFW PARTICIPATING CHEFS:
Nick Wallace - Chef Chair
Kelsey Bernard Clark - Chef Co-Host
Jackson Kalb
Gabriel Pascuzzi
Michelle Wallace
Vishwesh Bhatt
Enrika Williams
Desi Bourgeois
Marc Bynum
Damien Cavicchi
Jon Davis
Katie Dixon
Alex Eaton
Eudora's Mississippi Brasserie
Hunter Evans
Jeff Hansel
Grant Hutcheson
La Brioche + Spark Confectionary Team
Geno Lee
Chaz Lindsay
Brian Myrick
Cooper Miller
Pierre Pryer, Sr.
Ming Pu
Joseph Sambou
Austin Sumrall
Ty Thames
Eddie Wright
Evelyn Aviles
Thomas Hines
Nicki Lovell
Brittany Cochran
Chef Chair Nick Wallace adds, “There are local craft breweries that are going to be there. A lot of local spirits are going to be there. And you’re going to want to be there in the mix of all this fun.”
For tickets and more information visit jxnfoodandwine.com.
As travelers eagerly begin mapping out their 2025 adventures, the enchanting landscapes and vibrant culture of New Zealand beckon as a captivating destination to consider.
From sensational coastlines and countryside to diverse nature and wildlife, there’s no shortage of reasons to visit New Zealand—its scenery brings its A-game all year long.
“Aotearoa,” the Maori name for New Zealand, translates aptly to “land of the long white cloud.” This moniker stems from early Polynesian navigators who noticed the distinctive long clouds over the islands upon arrival. Reflecting native culture and tradition, “Aotearoa” captures the Maori people’s profound connection to the land and its stunning natural beauty. Today, the name is widely used alongside the English title, embodying the rich cultural heritage and identity of New Zealand.
From the beautiful sky to the scenic waterways, stunning scenery dominates throughout the small country made up of two main islands (the North Island and the South Island) and a series of smaller islands. This untamed land boasts an impressive number of soaring mountains, lush rainforests and stunning fiords.
NORTH ISLAND highlights include Auckland, Rotorua and Wellington.
AUCKLAND is known as the “City of Sails.” In this vibrant hub where urban sophistication meets spectacular natural landscapes, the Sky Tower provides panoramic city views. No visit is complete without a ferry ride to Waiheke Island, famous for its vineyards and olive groves.
CULTURAL GEMS in Auckland include the Waitangi Treaty House, or Busby House as it is sometimes known, the site of some of the most important events in New Zealand’s history. It was here in 1840 that the country's founding document was signed. Visitors enjoy interactive exhibits, see Maori cultural performances, stroll through the lush gardens, and spend time in the inspiring art gallery and carving studio.
A must-do in Auckland is a sightseeing cruise through the islands along the Rakaumangamanga Peninsula to Cape Brett and the famous Hole in the Rock. According to Maori legend, local warriors used to paddle through the Hole in the Rock in their canoes before departing for battle. If water dripped on them from the cave’s room, it was a good omen. Keep an eye out for dolphins, whales and other marine life during your cruise, and have your camera ready as you get up close to the action.
Visit ROTORUA to venture into the heart of Maori culture. This geothermal wonderland features spouting geysers, bubbling mud pools and stunning hot springs. Take part in a traditional Maori hangi dinner in which meats are roasted and vegetables cooked underground with hot stones. These events often include a cultural performance of Haka, the traditional war dance of the Maori.
Also of note in Rotorua are the National Kiwi Hatchery where important conservation work is in action and Te Puia, home to the island’s most prominent thermal areas, dramatic geysers, bubbling mud pools and silica terraces.
For a good look at sheep in New Zealand, travel to MARTON . Centrally located in the North Island, the area can be accessed conveniently from nearby cities. Travel routes provide scenic countryside views, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination itself!
WELLINGTON , the nation’s capital, offers a blend of cutting-edge creativity and rich history. Explore the interactive exhibits at Te Papa, the national museum, and stroll charming Cuba Street. Take a scenic cable-car ride, visit the beautiful botanic gardens, see the famous Beehive and Parliament buildings, and enjoy panoramic views of the city and harbor from the top of Mount Victoria.
Wellington served as a central point for the “Lord of the Rings” film trilogy, largely due to its diverse landscapes and bustling film industry. Located in the suburb of Miramar, Weta Workshop is renowned for its craftsmanship and artistry in film production. Tours provide an intimate look into the fascinating world of special effects, prop creation and costume design that brought Middle-earth to life. Visitors can also explore the Weta Cave, a mini-museum and retail shop offering unique memorabilia and a glimpse into the artistry behind the films.
SOUTH ISLAND hidden gems abound.
Known as the “Garden City,” CHRISTCHURCH takes its name from an English city and has a strong English heritage. Top sites include Hagley Park and the stunning Christchurch Botanic Gardens.
Take one of the world’s great train journeys aboard the scenic Tranzalpine to the base of the impressive Franz Josef Glacier, one of the world’s most accessible glaciers. Guided hikes and scenic helicopter flights that land on the ice provide up-closeand-personal exploration of stunning ice formations and the unique glacial environment.
QUEENSTOWN is one of New Zealand’s most popular destinations due to its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, vibrant atmosphere and unique wildlife. Everyone from sun-seekers and adventure enthusiasts to culture buffs and nature lovers find something to write home about here. Nestled beside the crystalclear Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by majestic mountains, Queenstown is the adventure capital of New Zealand. From bungee jumping and skiing to wine tasting and scenic cruises, it offers thrills and relaxation in equal measure. Free-fall with stunning views over tropical beaches and islands or take the famous Kuranda Scenic Railway or the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway for breathtaking views over the ancient rainforests and waterfalls.
Don’t miss Fiordland National Park. Thanks to some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world, this region has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was famously described by author Rudyard Kipling as the “eighth wonder of the world.”
Exploring New Zealand is a captivating adventure, with various travel options to suit every explorer. Renting a car or campervan is a great choice for flexibility, allowing vacationers to embark on scenic road trips like the Thermal Explorer Highway on the North Island or the West Coast Road on the South Island. Be advised, however, that New Zealanders drive on the left-hand side. Those traveling between islands or needing to cover long distances quickly find domestic flights offer a convenient and time-saving option.
A budget-friendly approach is to hop on an intercity bus with companies like InterCity, which connect major destinations such as Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Queenstown. Scenic train journeys like the Tranzalpine or the Northern Explorer showcase some of the country’s most breathtaking views. Traveling between the North and South Islands can be a scenic experience in itself by taking a ferry across the Cook Strait, offering vistas of the Marlborough Sounds.
For a hassle-free travel experience, consider taking a tour. Local guides will ensure guests see all the highlights without the worry of planning logistics. Cruising is another great option. Several lines offer voyages to New Zealand. Itineraries often start in Australia, particularly from Sydney, and make their way to various New Zealand ports. The best time to visit is during the spring (September-November) or fall (March-May) for milder weather and fewer crowds.
New Zealand is a tapestry of vibrant cultures, unrivaled landscapes and enchanting histories. Every corner of this incredible country offers unique experiences and lasting memories. Let New Zealand sweep you away into worlds both real and mythical—where each journey is beyond the ordinary.
Travel Leaders can help you craft a journey that will leave you spellbound. Contact them at 901.377.6600 or 901.853.6200, or visit www.gotravelleaders.com. Offices are located at 2765 Wolf Creek Pkwy., Ste. 104, Memphis, and 155 N. Main St., Ste. 101A, Collierville, and are open by appointment only. Owned by Barbara May, Travel Leaders has been creating dream vacations for over 39 years. The agency specializes in all types of travel.
STORY BY MICHELLE JOHNS
February is a time to celebrate the relationships we cherish. Genuine connection is more than just words or gestures; it’s a commitment to being present, mindful and kind with others—and also with ourselves. Building deeper relationships with loved ones starts with understanding and transforming our own internal connections with our feelings, emotions and thoughts. When we practice self-compassion, we naturally become better listeners, partners, friends and family members.
Below are some ways you may cultivate mindfulness and selfcompassion in your relationships with loved ones and with yourself.
In a world that is constantly in motion, it’s easy to move through conversations and interactions on autopilot. Being mindful in our relationships means intentionally slowing down, focusing fully on the
person in front of us and appreciating the richness of each moment together. Here are some practices that help build deeper, more present relationships:
: Active listening is one of the greatest gifts you can give to others. When someone speaks, focus solely on them; put aside your phone, silence any mental to-do lists and listen with an open heart. Resist the urge to interrupt or jump in with your own thoughts; instead, give the speaker space to express themselves fully. Reflect back what you’ve heard to show that you’re truly listening, and ask for confirmation that you heard them correctly.
REGULARLY : Too often, we assume that the people we care about know how we feel. Taking the time to express genuine appreciation, whether it’s for something in particular or simply for who a person is, creates a positive, affirming energy in the relationship. This could be as simple as saying, “I appreciate that you are always there for me,” or leaving a note of gratitude. Such moments of appreciation can strengthen bonds and remind us of the value we bring to each other’s lives.
3. BE PRESENT IN EVERYDAY MOMENTS : Presence doesn’t always require a grand gesture. Small acts like making eye contact during conversations, turning off distractions and fully engaging in a shared activity foster closeness. Try to bring a mindful awareness to your time together. Even mundane tasks like preparing dinner or running errands can be opportunities to connect more deeply.
4. SHO W EMPATHY AND COMPASSION:
Mindful relationships involve seeing others as they are rather than through the lens of our expectations. Approach loved ones with understanding that everyone struggles and mistakes are part of being human. When we practice empathy, we create a safe space for others to be authentic and vulnerable, which deepens trust and connection.
Our relationships with others are often influenced by the relationship we have with ourselves. If we are overly critical or harsh with ourselves, it can create insecurities and resentment that seep into interactions with others. Understanding and transforming the inner critic is vital in becoming a more compassionate person.
1. RE COGNIZE YOUR INNER CRITICS:
These are the voices that tell us we’re not good enough, smart enough or worthy enough. They often surface as negative self-talk and behaviors undermining our confidence and self-esteem. Begin by noticing these voices. Recognize that these are thoughts, not facts, and
often stem from past experiences or ingrained beliefs.
2. REFRAME NEGATIVE THOUGHTS:
Once you’ve identified your inner critics, practice reframing those thoughts. Instead of, “I’m not good at this,” shift to a kinder perspective—“I’m learning, and it’s okay to make mistakes.” Challenge harsh thoughts and replace them with affirming messages that encourage self-acceptance.
3. TRE AT YOURSELF AS A FRIEND:
Imagine how you would speak to a friend facing a struggle. Would you criticize them or offer encouragement and support? Extend that level of kindness to yourself. When you make a mistake or feel insecure, remind yourself that it’s okay to be imperfect. This approach fosters a nurturing internal relationship, which, in turn, enhances interactions with others.
4. PRA CTICE SELF-COMPASSION
EXERCISES: Incorporating selfcompassion exercises into your routine makes a powerful difference. Place your hand on your heart and offer yourself a comforting phrase, like “I’m here for you” or “I’m doing my best.” Small gestures of selfcompassion help calm the inner critics, reduce reactivity and create a positive mental environment, making you feel more at ease with yourself and, by extension, with others.
This February, let’s celebrate love in all its forms—romantic, platonic and selflove. By practicing mindfulness with others and nurturing compassion within ourselves, we create relationships rooted in acceptance, appreciation and mutual growth.
I AM A SOUP LOVER, EVEN IN THE SUMMER. IF FEBRUARY’S TEMPS ARE ANYTHING LIKE THE PAST MONTH, I THINK THEY WILL MAKE A SOUP LOVER OUT OF EVERYONE, AND THIS RECIPE WILL BE JUST THE THING! IT IS ALSO PERFECT TO SERVE IN CUPS FOR THE "SOUP-ER" BOWL. LIKE FOR TACOS, THE TOPPING CHOICES ARE ENDLESS, AND CHICKEN OR A MEAT SUBSTITUTE CAN EASILY BE USED IN PLACE OF BEEF. IT IS A PERFECT FIT FOR ALL PALATES. I FOUND THIS RECIPE ABOUT 25 YEARS AGO AND IT HAS BEEN A FAMILY FAVORITE OF OURS EVER SINCE. THE RECIPE AS PRINTED SERVES SIX, SO I USUALLY QUADRUPLE THE INGREDIENTS TO FREEZE AND SHARE WITH FRIENDS.
1 pound lean ground beef
4 cups chicken broth
2 (10-ounce) cans Ro-tel diced tomatoes and green chilies with juices
1 (14-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 (12-ounce) can corn, drained
½ red bell pepper, chopped
½ Tbsp. chili powder
1 tsp. garlic powder
1 tsp. onion powder
1 tsp. ground cumin
1 tsp. smoked paprika
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings (optional): grated cheddar, avocado, cilantro, tortilla strips, lime wedges etc…the possibilities are numerous!
1. Add ground beef to a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Brown, breaking meat up with your spoon as you go along, for about 10 minutes. If there’s excess fat, spoon most of it out.
2. Add the remaining ingredients except for the cream cheese, salt and pepper.
3. Increase heat to high and bring soup to a boil. Reduce heat and allow to simmer gently, uncovered, for about 10 minutes
4. Cut cream cheese into smaller pieces and add it to the soup. Let it melt in (you may have to stir it a fair bit until it’s fully dissolved). Season soup with salt and pepper and serve with toppings as desired.
5. ENJOY!
Special ThanksDesign Brief Interiors designbriefinteriors.com
Ross Group Creative rossgroupcreative.com
EXPERIENCE THIS
Special ThanksJackson Food & Wine Festival jxnfoodandwine.com
Special ThanksTravel Leaders
901.853.6200, 901.377.6600
Special ThanksMichelle Johns mjohns@transformingwellness.com
Special ThanksFamilies Matter familiesmattermemphis.org
Families Matter is a faith-based nonprofit dedicated to strengthening families, changing lives and transforming Memphis the only way it can be done: one family at a time through God’s love. Families Matter serves youth and adults through partnerships with schools, churches and a variety of community organizations aligned to educate, enhance and encourage individuals to become their best selves. Program offerings are designed to positively impact the individual, the family structure and our community as a whole.
Free classes are available for youth, men and women to help them develop parenting skills, relationship skills and healthy character traits. Offerings are designed to provide families with resources to manage difficult times without reaching crisis points.
Programming for boys and girls, mothers and fathers includes:
The 12 Principles of Manhood: Teaches boys in grades five through 12 biblical principles, encouraging their ability to become men of integrity. Connections: Relationship Program: Teaches teens the sequence of success in building healthy relationships to secure a desired future.
Dynamic Dads: Trains rookie fathers in hospitals with their newborns to become responsible, involved dads in their baby’s life and increase care of the new mother.
Raising Highly Capable Kids: Encourages parents to familiarize themselves with family patterns to eliminate issues derailing future success. Acquaints parents with community resources that increase resilience.
The Nurturing Parents Program: Equips men and women with skills for healthy family development.
A.F.I.R.M. (A Father’s Involvement Really Matters): supports low-income fathers involved with child support, teaching skills that increase parental involvement and strengthen co-parenting relationships.
For more information, call 901.351.1124 or visit www.familiesmattermemphis.org.
