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Iam pretty sure I was in this same situation when writing my March issue letter last year, so forgive me if I struggle to talk about spring. It is currently 10 degrees and snow is on the ground. It is colder than a brass toilet seat in the Yukon, a polar bear’s toenails or a tax collector’s heart. Starbucks is now serving coffee on a stick!
After watching videos of warm, sunny places to visit, I knew I needed to do a little work, so I started reading through the features in this issue and all of a sudden I felt warm and cozy. Although grand in size, this month’s featured home just makes you feel at home. The Roses’ place is simply stunning, and Denise is just as lovely and warm as her home. Our travel feature takes us to Australia, home of the Great Barrier Reef and Brisbane, also known as the “Sunshine City,” and our On a Good Note article always brings us heartwarming stories of helping others. If you have or know of an organization that is doing great things to help those in need, or just raises people up, please reach out and let us know! These nonprofit organizations often don’t have funds for advertising and greatly depend on the media and individuals spreading their mission.
I hope you are all gearing up for March and the beginning of a new season! Whether planning a Spring Break destination or a “staycation,” there are plenty of great places here in our Mid South to visit, explore and make heart-warming memories, and I am ready to do just that. For right now, I will have to settle on watching another YouTube virtual warm vacation by the fire.
Stay safe and warm—spring is just around the corner!
- Margaret Monger, PUBLISHER
Planning Pays Off
STORY BY TERRI GLAZER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROSS GROUP CREATIVE
DESIGN BY CINDY MCCORD DESIGN AND KAREN KASSEN OF KITCHENS UNLIMITED
Itall started when Dean Rose decided he wanted to have a woodworking shop. Since that wouldn’t be possible at the Germantown house he and his wife Denise had built in 1998, his dream would require a move. Although she admits she wasn’t fully on board with the idea from day one, Denise says she became a believer when her husband told her that if they built a new place, she could have a downstairs art studio and it could be as big as she wanted.
The Roses took their time, searching almost three years for just the right place. Dean knew it the minute he saw it. The 15-acre parcel in Eads had plenty of room for a house and a shop. There was even a pond to accommodate his other hobby— fishing.
They bought the property in 2019 and assembled a tried-and-true team they had used when building their Germantown home: architect Brad Shapiro, Kitchens Unlimited designer Karen Kassen and contractor Hank Hill. Cindy McCord, a seasoned professional with over 35 years of experience in residential and commercial interior design, brought a wealth of experience to the project as she joined the team.
Having lived in their previous house for over 20 years, the couple had definite ideas about what they wanted in a new one. They also knew that careful planning on the front end would be crucial to achieving their very distinct vision. Says Kassen, “Because we’d done her other house, Denise realized that we had to start working on specifics early. We went through each room in her Germantown house, and she pointed out favorite features and shared ideas for the new place.
Thetour not only helped the pros understand what their client had in mind, it gave them the chance to customize the project to a degree rarely found. Says Kassen, “Denise wanted a sewing area in her studio, so I measured all of her sewing equipment and designed a space just for it,” says Kassen. McCord and Kassen collaborated closely, as they often do, to make sure that the cabinetry materials and finishes would mesh perfectly into the broader design plan. “Before we ever met with the Roses, Cindy came in and we put our heads together,” says Kassen. “She brought her vision for the colors and the fabrics, and then I made choices that would fit with it.” That degree of planning resulted in a home that is filled with purposeful, beautiful spaces.
Moreover, the house is perfectly suited to its owners. From siting the home to maximize views of the pond to drawing walls to accommodate specific pieces of furniture, Shapiro delivered exactly what the Roses had in mind.
Examples of just how personalized the home is are evident from the first step inside the entryway. The walls are paneled in quarter-sawn white oak; handsome stained and paintwashed beams sourced from Gates Lumber grace the ceiling. Those choices, along with other details concerning the woodwork, were important to master craftsman Dean. An ingenious concealed door hides a stairway down to the partial basement that houses utilities and plumbing.
The main living space, though grand in scale, feels cozy thanks to three distinct areas McCord created. Denise didn’t want a formal dining room or a table and chairs in the kitchen. Instead, she envisioned a spot to gather a large group for family meals in the main room. McCord delivered with a custom double-width table that seats 12 in contemporary upholstered chairs. The dining furniture serves as a natural divider between the TV viewing area on one end and a conversation nook with four swivel chairs near the stone fireplace.
Off to the side, the handsome bar has a decidedly masculine feel. Dark stained cabinetry gives the space weight, while a glass mosaic backsplash and coppery-finished bar top add Craftsman-style elements that blend perfectly with the home’s overall casual feel.
The bar connects to the scullery, a room designed to have “a place for everything and everything in its place,” and in a beautiful manner, to boot. One wall’s glass-front cabinets and drawers hold Denise’s large collection of dinnerware; another was designed to keep her assortment of small appliances at arm’s reach. On a third wall are open shelves with all shapes and sizes of pottery serving pieces. Kassen even designed a custom spot for Denise’s folding step stool, a must-have in a room with cabinets all the way to the 10foot ceiling.
Purposeful
, organized spaces abound in the adjacent kitchen, a chef’s dream with every convenience imaginable. The centerpiece, located in one of two large islands, is a specialized work station called The Galley. Thoughtfully designed for all-in-one food preparation and serving, the unit is housed in a custom case called a dresser. Inside are all the tools necessary to create any meal. The included cutting boards, bowls and trays fit on top of the oversized sink, allowing Denise to prepare food, serve and clean up in the same space. The rest of the kitchen is just as organized, thanks to much pre-planning. Denise says nothing was left to guesswork when it came to storage. “I knew where everything was going to go when I moved in because we had worked so long on the plan.”
The kitchen is as beautiful as it is organized. Kassen and McCord masterfully mixed walnut, white and deep blue cabinets in different areas, in keeping with the palette established in the living area into which the room opens. White Lavezzi quartzite counters surround the perimeter, allowing a bolder pattern stone, Celeste, to take center stage on the center island.
Just a few steps away are the rear entry and pantry, and their placement is definitely by design. “I wanted to walk from the garage right into the kitchen with the groceries. At my other house, it was a long way from where I came into the house,” Denise says. Among the pantry’s design elements is a specialized rolling cabinet section that allows the Roses to move their family’s beloved double frozen drink machine easily when it’s party time.
Awide hallway leads from the family room past the large laundry room, complete with a built-in dog washing area, to what Denise calls her favorite part of the home. Her studio is roomy, comfortable, and gives her room to paint, sew, exercise or relax. It’s no wonder she admits, “I could stay in here all the time!” A fireplace and a pair of armchairs create a comfortable vignette just inside the door. Paintings by Denise and several of her favorite artists grace the walls. Complete with a sink for washing brushes, the art area is lined with shelving units to hold a multitude of supplies.
The home’s three guest bedrooms are inviting and beautiful, an artful mix of pieces brought from the Roses’ previous home, new acquisitions sourced by McCord, and original furniture created by the woodworker in the family. Every bedroom has an adjoining bath, each with an elegant yet different look curated by Kassen. The primary bedroom’s bay window overlooks the pond, creating a serene feel. Soft grays and neutrals on the walls, bedding and upholstery further the tranquil mood. A wall of built-in shelves holds family photos, mementoes, pottery and books.
“My last bathroom was very feminine—yellow with roses on the wallpaper. I wanted this one to be more of a mix, with some masculine touches,” Denise says, pointing out the reeded detail on the quarter-sawn white oak cabinetry. Kassen and McCord made sure the primary bath was not without feminine touches, including elegant marble countertops and floors and a pair of scalloped pendant light fixtures with linen shades. The bathroom cabinets are just as specialized as those in the kitchen, with an assortment of purpose-built features.
Thehome’s outdoor spaces received the same careful attention as the interior, and the results are spectacular. The plan created by landscape architect Marley Fields added even more natural beauty to the pastoral setting. An infinity pool, built by Jay West Pools, spills into a waterfall on the patio area below, creating beauty and soothing sound.
The Roses can enjoy their large screened porch year round thanks to the addition of vinyl coverings that can be automatically lowered in place of the screens in bad weather. A fireplace and heaters chase the cold away so the family can relax, watch TV or dine comfortably. Hidden away behind barn doors when not in use, the nearby outdoor kitchen includes everything necessary to prepare a meal al fresco.
Each area of the home is a study in how beauty, comfort and purpose can combine at the highest level. These qualities don’t just come together by happenstance, however. As McCord says, “So much planning had to be done beforehand to accomplish all this.” Clearly, planning pays off.
TEXT AND PHOTOS COURTESY OF EXPLORE RIDGELAND
The Ultimate Girlfriend Getaway in Ridgeland, Mississippi:
Where Southern Charm Meets
Women are the backbone of families, workplaces and communities. They balance careers, family responsibilities and everything in between. But every woman needs time to unwind and connect with her tribe. A Girlfriend Getaway is the perfect way to do just that—a chance to indulge in some well-earned luxury. For the ultimate retreat, look no further than Ridgeland, Mississippi; it’s a hidden gem that’s become a top destination for girlfriends seeking an unforgettable escape.
WHY RIDGELAND?
Located just off the scenic Natchez Trace Parkway, Ridgeland is a charming Southern destination with the perfect blend of small-town hospitality and big-city amenities. With a variety of hotels, dining, shopping and outdoor activities, Ridgeland is the ideal place for women to unwind, shop, eat and play. From adventure to opportunities to be pampered, Ridgeland has it all.
WHERE TO STAY: HOME BASE FOR FUN AND RELAXATION
Ridgeland offers 16 hotels to choose from, so friend groups have no trouble finding the perfect place to rest after a day of fun. Many hotels are located near The Township at Colony Park and Renaissance at Colony Park, steps away from boutiques, art galleries and beautiful green spaces perfect for casual strolls. Whether you’re into sleek, modern spaces or charming boutique hotels, you’ll find something unique that sets the tone for a memorable stay.
SHOP
’TIL
YOU DROP: RIDGELAND RETAIL TRAIL
A girls’ trip isn’t complete without some retail therapy. Ridgeland’s Retail Trail offers a mix of trendy boutiques, local treasure and luxury finds. For something truly special, visit Allison Avery in the Railroad District, where the whole group can create custom charm necklaces at the shop’s jewelry bar. These one-of-a-kind pieces will be the perfect memento to remember a wonderful trip.
EAT WELL IN RIDGELAND: A FOODIE’S PARADISE
No getaway is complete without indulgent food. Ridgeland offers a diverse culinary scene, ranging from Latin and French flavors to farm-to-table delights and vegan options. Hearty meals and local favorites abound in the Steakhouse Capital of Mississippi.
For an elevated experience, enjoy afternoon tea at CW Organics Apothicaire & Tea Room, located in the heart of Old Town. Later, unwind along Ridgeland’s Cocktail Trail to explore local bars and sip signature beverages.
GET OUTDOORS: ADVENTURE AWAITS
If your group prefers outdoor fun, Ridgeland has plenty to offer. Explore the area’s natural beauty on foot or bike along multi-use trails. Stop by the Visitors Center at Renaissance at Colony Park or The Bike Crossing to take advantage of the free Explore Ridgeland bikeshare program. Ride through scenic parks and along the stunning Barnett Reservoir, or trek to the Waller Craft Center, where over 400 artisans display handmade artwork. Hardcore adventure seekers won’t want to miss the Ridgeland Mountain Bike Trails, perfect for beginners or experienced riders who know how to kick up the dirt!
A day on the water at “The Rez” is a must. Rent a pontoon boat or kayak for an adventure on the 33,000-acre lake. It’s the perfect way to relax and enjoy a sunny afternoon with the girls.
PAMPER YOURSELF: SPAS GALORE
When it’s time to relax, Ridgeland has a range of spas and wellness centers to pamper you and your friends. From deep-tissue massages and facials to hair treatments, even full makeovers, Ridgeland offers the ultimate spa experience. Local favorites include Aqua the Day Spa, CORE Wellness & Recovery, Amy Head Cosmetics and Sara Marie Facial Aesthetics. Visit the Spa & Wellness page on the Explore Ridgeland website for a complete list of area spas.
GOLF, ANYONE?
Looking for a fun, interactive activity? Topgolf is Ridgeland’s newest hotspot, and Mississippi’s very first location is perfect for golfers of all skill levels. Whether you’re seasoned pros or beginners, it’s a fantastic way to bond over some friendly competition.
GETAWAY!
START PLANNING YOUR GIRLFRIEND
With everything from picturesque trails and outdoor adventures to shopping, dining and pampering, Ridgeland has it all. Visit exploreRidgeland.com for all the details and map out a dream girls’ getaway.
GLASS HOUSE MOUNTAINS IN BRISBANE
KANGAROOS , CORALS AND CULTURE:
DISCOVER THE HEART OF AUSTRALIA
TEXT AND PHOTOS COURTESY OF BARBARA MAY, OWNER OF TRAVEL LEADERS
After last month’s journey into the enchanting landscapes of New Zealand, it’s time to journey across the Tasman Sea to its captivating neighbor, Australia. Travelers often combine these two iconic destinations for a quintessential down-under adventure. From the bustling streets of Sydney to the tranquil, azure waters of the Great Barrier Reef, Australia’s vast landscapes offer an intriguing blend of urban sophistication and natural wonders. Marvel at the rugged beauty of the Outback, where ancient Aboriginal stories echo through the red sands, then unwind in the art-laden lanes of Melbourne, the cultural capital bursting with creativity. This captivating continent invites you to explore its delights, creating unforgettable memories along a path paved with history, diversity and adventure.
SYDNEY: THE VIBRANT METROPOLIS
This vibrant metropolis offers an exhilarating blend of iconic landmarks and beachside relaxation. At the world-renowned Sydney Opera House architectural beauty meets cultural grandeur. Guided tours unveil its fascinating history, and with a bit of luck, visitors can catch a glimpse of a rehearsal in progress. Just a stone’s throw away lies the majestic Sydney Harbour Bridge, inviting adventurous souls to climb its arch for unmatched views of the city and harbor.
For a quintessential Sydney experience, head to Bondi Beach, where golden sands and rolling waves beckon sunseekers and surfers alike. Indulge in the invigorating Bondi to Coogee coastal walk, a five-kilometer trail that meanders along cliff tops, offering stunning ocean vistas and picturesque beaches along the way.
SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE
In The Rocks, Sydney’s historic heart, cobblestone lanes lead to bustling markets, charming cafes and a deep sense of the city’s colonial past. This area, nestled beneath the towering cityscape, is perfect for wandering and soaking in the dynamic blend of heritage and modernity that defines Sydney. From diving into its cultural scene to chilling on its beaches or exploring historic areas, Sydney pulses with an energy that captivates every traveler.
MELBOURNE: THE CULTURAL CAPITAL
Often dubbed as the cultural capital of Australia, Melbourne breathes creativity and art at every corner. The city is famous for Federation Square, a vibrant cultural precinct that pulses with life day and night. Its art galleries and museums invite exploration, while live performances and bustling plazas offer a taste of the dynamic local arts scene.
In Melbourne’s famed laneways, graffiti art adorns the walls with bursts of color and creativity. These winding paths are home to an array of unique cafes and boutiques, each offering a distinct flavor. Discover hidden gems like hole-in-the-wall espresso bars or specialty stores filled with handmade treasures. Melbourne’s laneways are more than just passages; they are lively canvases showcasing the city’s artistic soul.
No visit to Melbourne would be complete without a trip to Queen Victoria Market, a beloved institution teeming with fresh produce, artisan goods and culinary delights from all over the globe. This largest openair market in the southern hemisphere offers a sensory feast where aromas of freshly baked bread and exotic spices fill the air.
CAIRNS: GATEWAY TO THE GREAT BARRIER REEF
Nestled in the tropical north of Australia, Cairns is often regarded as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and a haven for nature lovers.
The Cairns Botanic Gardens, a peaceful retreat, is home to one of the most diverse collections of tropical plants in the world. Wander through themed garden areas that showcase flora native to the region and beyond for an educational and tranquil experience. With its proximity to some of the country’s most breathtaking natural wonders, Cairns enchants with its tropical appeal and calls to those with a spirit for discovery and adventure. After experiencing the tropical allure of Cairns, journey deeper into Queensland, Australia’s sunshine state, where natural wonders and bustling urban centers coexist. It is home to a variety of unique animal and marine life that will make a vacation there unforgettable.
Snorkel and dive in one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders, the Great Barrier Reef, to encounter the Great Eight marine animals: turtles, whales, manta rays, clownfish, sharks, giant clams, potato cod and Maori Wrasse.
On land, cuddle a koala or watch friendly kangaroos and wallabies searching for food at sunrise on a tranquil beach. With more than 1,000 national parks, Queensland has plenty of natural wonders to explore, including the World-Heritage listed Daintree Rainforest. Marvel at the biodiversity and stunning landscapes in the world’s oldest tropical rainforest. Adventure lovers can find the ultimate adrenaline rush bungee jumping and white-water rafting in the area.
When in Queensland don’t miss the chance to visit the idyllic Whitsunday Islands. Whitehaven Beach is the crown jewel, known for its crystal-clear waters and white sands. Embark on a fourwheel-drive adventure on Fraser Island, the world’s largest sand island, known for its pristine freshwater lakes and diverse wildlife. There’s truly a sense of excitement, adventure and discovery around every corner in Queensland, from the wonders of the rainforest to the splendors of the sea. It is ideal for hiking enthusiasts with its ancient trees, beautiful waterfalls and rich birdlife. Queensland truly has something for everyone, from adrenaline-pumping action to tranquil escapes in nature.
RAINTREE RAINFOREST IN QUEENSLAND
BRISBANE: THE SUNSHINE CITY
Brisbane is a vibrant destination that blends laid-back charm with urban allure. Explore the South Bank Parklands, a sprawling oasis on the Brisbane River’s southern banks. Stroll or cycle along scenic waterfront paths lined with lush gardens, discover cultural gems like the Queensland Performing Arts Centre, or savor delights from a diverse array of eateries that cater to every palate.
For an unforgettable wildlife experience, head to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, the world’s first and largest such facility. This cherished sanctuary offers the unique opportunity to cuddle a koala, hand-feed kangaroos and encounter other iconic Australian animals in a natural setting. It’s an ideal spot for families and animal lovers to connect with the continent’s unique fauna. No visit to Brisbane would be complete without a trip to Mount Coot-tha Lookout. Just a short drive from the city center, this stunning vantage point offers panoramic views of Brisbane, its surrounding suburbs, and even glimpses of the distant Glass House Mountains. Explore the walking trails that weave through the adjacent bushland, capturing the essence of the local landscape.
ADELAIDE: THE GOURMET HAVEN
Adelaide is often celebrated as Australia’s gourmet haven, where culinary excellence meets lush wine regions at its doorstep. For a local wine tasting experience go to the Adelaide Central Market, a bustling foodie paradise that captures the spirit of the city. Fresh produce abounds, and aromas of cheese, spices and baked goods tantalize the senses, promising an authentic taste of the region.
SOUTH BANK PARKLANDS IN BRISBANE
Australia’s acclaimed wine regions are easily accessible from Adelaide. In the Barossa Valley, renowned worldwide for its Shiraz, indulge in wine tastings and vineyard tours, where passionate winemakers share their craft. Alternatively, the McLaren Vale region offers stunning coastal views alongside exceptional wines and gourmet experiences that harmoniously blend with the landscape.
For a touch of seaside charm, head to Glenelg Beach. This inviting stretch of sand provides the perfect backdrop for a leisurely day by the sea. Whether you’re enjoying water sports, savoring fish and chips on the promenade or catching a beautiful sunset, Glenelg offers a serene escape just a tram ride away from the city’s center.
THE BEST TIME TO VISIT
Scheduling a trip to Australia largely depends on the regions you intend to explore, as the country’s vastness encompasses diverse climates. In southern Australia, including cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth, the spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) months offer mild weather ideal for city tours, coastal walks and wine region excursions. For northern Australia, such as Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef, plan your trip during the dry season from May to October, when the weather is warm and sunny with low humidity, providing perfect conditions for snorkeling, diving and rainforest adventures. If the Outback, with its iconic landmarks like Uluru and Alice Springs, is on your itinerary, aim to visit during the cooler months between April and September to enjoy the stunning landscapes without the extreme heat of summer. Meanwhile, the east coast, including Brisbane and surrounding beaches, is best experienced from April to November, offering pleasant weather suitable for beach activities and exploring the reefs and islands.
GETTING AROUND IN AUSTRALIA
Domestic travel in Australia is convenient, with an extensive network of flights connecting major cities and regional areas. Alternatively, travelers can enjoy scenic road trips, reliable bus services and efficient train routes, making it easy to explore everything from bustling metropolises to remote Outback adventures. As you uncover the vibrant tapestry of kangaroos, corals and culture that defines this extraordinary land, Australia promises a journey filled with wonder and discovery at every turn. From the cosmopolitan allure of Sydney and Melbourne to the tropical wonders of Cairns and the serene beauty of Adelaide and Queensland, each destination offers its own unique flavor of adventure. Whether you’re diving beneath the waves of the Great Barrier Reef, savoring the culinary delights of Adelaide’s markets or capturing selfies with the joyous quokkas on Rottnest Island, Australia captivates the senses and enriches the soul. Diverse landscapes, welcoming people and boundless experiences invite travelers to this sun-drenched continent to create unforgettable memories.
SYDNEY HARBOUR BRIDGE
For more information or to craft a journey to the Land Down Under, contact
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.
SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE
WHITEHAVEN BEACH
Detoxing your Digital Life
STORY BY MICHELLE JOHNS
A Spring Clean for Technology Use
Spring is a time to open the windows, clear out the clutter and start fresh. While we often focus on our physical spaces, the digital world we live in can benefit from a little spring cleaning, too. Our devices and online habits have a big impact on our mental wellbeing; decluttering them can help create a more peaceful, organized and intentional relationship with technology.
Following are some simple steps to “detox” your digital life and make technology work for you, rather than the other way around.
1. Declutter Your Device
Over time, our phones, tablets and computers accumulate endless files, photos and apps, leading to digital clutter that’s just as stressful as a messy room.
Tidy up your device:
Delete Unnecessary Apps
Start by going through the apps on your phone and removing any you no longer use. Fewer apps mean less distraction, and a cleaner home screen can feel fresher and easier to navigate.
Organize Files and Photos
Take some time to sort through your files, documents and photos. Delete duplicates or outdated files, create folders for easy organization, and back up essential files to cloud storage. You might also set a weekly or monthly reminder to maintain this habit.
Clean Up Your Desktop
An overcrowded computer desktop can add to mental clutter. Keep only your most frequently used folders and documents there, and organize the rest into easily accessible folders. A clear desktop can make opening your computer feel much more welcoming.
2. Unfollow and Unfriend with Intention
Social media can be both a source of connection or stress, depending on what we see in our feeds.
Evaluate your online connections and make social media a more positive space.
Unfollow Accounts That Don’t Bring You Joy
Scroll through the list of people, brands and pages you follow. If someone’s posts tend to make you feel anxious, irritated or simply uninspired, consider unfollowing. Curating a feed filled with content that aligns with your interests and values can make social media more enjoyable and uplifting.
Limit News and Content Overload
With so much content available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. You might try setting boundaries around news or information-heavy accounts to create a healthier, more balanced experience. Following fewer accounts can make it easier to focus on what really matters to you.
Reassess Your Friendships and Connections
This might be a good time to think about the relationships in your digital life. If there are people you’ve lost touch with or whose online presence feels draining, consider muting or even unfriending. It’s okay to prioritize your peace and well-being.
3. Set Boundaries for Screen Time
Setting intentional limits on screen time is one of the best ways to improve your relationship with technology.
A few ways to manage screen use mindfully:
Set App Time Limits
Most devices have built-in features that allow you to set daily time limits on specific apps. Use these to limit the amount of time you spend on social media, gaming or any other app that tends to absorb your time. Once the limit is reached, take it as a cue to move on to another activity.
Designate “No-Phone” Times
Establish times in your day when you avoid screens entirely, like during meals, in the first hour after waking up or the hour before bed. These “no-phone” times can help you reconnect with your surroundings and develop healthier habits.
Try a Digital Detox Day
Consider taking one day each week or month to go completely screen-free. This can be a refreshing way to break from the digital world, recharge and enjoy offline activities. Use the day to focus on hobbies, nature and in-person connections.
4. Organize Your Inbox
An overflowing email inbox can create stress, especially when important messages get buried under newsletters and spam.
A few steps to manage your inbox include: Unsubscribe from Unnecessary Emails
Over time, we all accumulate subscriptions to newsletters and promotions we don’t actually want. Use an “unsubscribe” tool or go through your inbox manually to remove yourself from emails that don’t serve you.
Create Folders or Labels
Organize your inbox with folders or labels for different categories, like “Work,” “Personal” and “Receipts.” This makes it easier to find specific emails later and can help keep your inbox more manageable.
Delete Old Messages
Go through old emails and archive or delete anything that’s no longer needed. A clear inbox
can help you feel more in control and less overwhelmed.
5.
Practice
Mindful Technology Use
Once you’ve cleaned up your digital spaces, it’s important to maintain a balanced relationship with technology. Here are some habits that encourage more mindful use:
Set an Intention Before Going Online
Before you pick up your phone or open a new app, ask yourself what you hope to accomplish. Are you going online for work, to connect with someone or just out of habit? Setting an intention can prevent mindless scrolling and make your tech use more purposeful.
Be Present with In-Person Connections
When you’re spending time with friends, family or coworkers, aim to be fully present. Put your phone away and focus on the people around you. These moments can deepen connections and reduce the sense of distraction that technology often brings.
Create Digital-Free Zones in Your Home
Establish areas in your home where digital devices are off-limits, such as the dining room, bedroom or living room. Digital-free zones encourage you to disconnect from screens and engage more fully with your environment and the people around you.
Moving Forward with a Clearer, Lighter Digital Life
By taking these steps to detox and organize your digital life, you can create a space that’s less stressful and more enjoyable. Digital spring cleaning helps free up mental energy, allowing you to focus on what truly matters, whether that’s quality time with loved ones, personal goals or simply enjoying a peaceful moment.
As with any type of spring cleaning, digital decluttering isn’t a one-time fix. Consider adopting these practices as regular habits to maintain a balanced, positive relationship with technology throughout the year. A clearer digital life is just one more way to bring mindfulness, intention and well-being into everyday life.
Spring Asparagus Fettuccine
WHENEVER I AM AT A RESTAURANT THAT SERVES CARBONARA, REST ASSURED, I WILL BE ORDERING IT. IT IS MY FAVORITE PASTA. ALTHOUGH IT IS CARB HEAVY, THE EGG YOLKS GIVE IT A PROTEIN PUNCH AND WITHOUT THE HEAVY CREAM IN ALFREDO STYLE
FETTUCCINE, I LIKE TO THINK OF IT AS A BIT HEALTHY, EVEN WITH THE BACON GREASE! WITH ASPARAGUS BEING PLENTIFUL IN THE SPRING, IT’S THE PERFECT QUICK, WEEKNIGHT MEAL. FEEL FREE TO ADD SOME FRESH GREEN PEAS TO IT, AS WELL.
TO MAKE:
8 ounces fettuccine (I prefer the fresh pasta in the refrigerated section of the supermarket.)
6 slices thick-cut bacon, cut into ½-inch pieces
3 large egg yolks
1 cup freshly grated parmesan, plus more for garnish
1 pound asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces and woody ends discarded ¼ cup fresh parsley leaves, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
Kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper and crushed red pepper flakes to taste
Mix the parmesan cheese, egg yolks, ½ teaspoon of salt and a generous amount of black pepper together and set aside. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions for al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water and drain.
Cook the bacon in a large skillet until crisp. Drain but reserve 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the skillet. Add the asparagus pieces and toss well in the bacon grease. Cook for 3 or 4 minutes and add red pepper flakes to taste and garlic. Cook until fragrant, about a minute—garlic burns quickly. Add the pasta.
Whisk ¼ cup of the reserved pasta water into the egg mixture and quickly pour it over the pasta mixture, tossing gently, allowing it to cook the eggs and make a creamy sauce. Thin out the mixture with more pasta water if needed.
Divide into 4 bowls and garnish with the parsley and more parmesan. ENJOY!!
MARCH 2025 SOURCES
HOME FEATURE
Special ThanksCindy McCord Design cindymccord.com
Kitchens Unlimited Kitchensunlimited.net
Ross Group Creative rossgroupcreative.com
GETAWAY
Special ThanksExplore Ridgeland exploreridgeland.com
TRAVEL
Special ThanksTravel Leaders
901.853.6200, 901.377.6600
HEALTHY YOU
Special ThanksMichelle Johns mjohns@transformingwellness.com
ON A GOOD NOTE
Special ThanksJunior Achievement of Memphis and the Mid South jamemphis.org
JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT OF MEMPHIS AND THE MID-SOUTH
TEXT BY BETH OKEON
A regional nonprofit serving 71 counties across Tennessee, Mississippi and Arkansas, Junior Achievement of Memphis and the Mid-South empowers children to be world-ready, engaged members of their communities so that they may lead independent lives. JA enables K-12 students to have careers of choice and the lives of their dreams by engaging them in hands-on learning opportunities that keep them informed, involved and inspired about their bright futures. By focusing on the three pillars of financial literacy, work readiness
and entrepreneurship, JA equips students with the knowledge, skills and connections they need to succeed.
Elementary programs introduce students to foundational concepts about money, careers and leadership that are built upon in later grades. Middle school programming is intentionally immersive so students can “learn by doing” and apply concepts through educational activities. High school programming exposes students to new information and opportunities, getting them ready for the next phase of life through practical skills and knowledge. This approach prepares participants to join the workforce pipeline on their own terms, positively impacting their futures, our economy and our communities.
Volunteers bring these programs to life. They embody the heart of JA’s mission by providing access, exposure, opportunity and an understanding of what’s ahead in the “real world.” Volunteers can include business professionals, college students, community members or parents who want to actively participate in educating students around them.
For more information, to volunteer or to support JA, call 901.366.7800 or visit www.jamemphis.org.
