November 2023

H O M E F EAT U R E F E AT U R I N G A M I

DESIGN

F E AT U R I N G H I L L C O

AUSTIN INTERIOR DESIGN

CONSTRUCTION

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TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S

26 | HOME FEATURE River Oaks residents bring in Ami Austin Interior Design to enhance their already beautiful furnishings and decor.

38 | DESIGN Tracy and Bill Hill of HillCo Construction take us through their recently completed turnkey project in southern Collierville for their California clients.

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TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S

NOVEMBER 2023 home & design 26 HOME FEATURE Flawlessly Finished

38 DESIGN

First Class Second Home

food & travel

52 EXPERIENCE THIS Oxford’s Annual Holiday House Tour 58 GETAWAY

A Jolly Shopping Wonderland Awaits in Ridgeland

64 TRAVEL Discover Croatia 76 IN THE KITCHEN Sausage Coffee Cake

for you

48 WEDDING

Mr. and Mrs. Driver

80 HEALTHY YOU The Power of Gratitude During Holiday Gatherings

in every issue

14 PUBLISHER'S NOTE

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85 SOURCES

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NOVEMBER 2023 • VOL. 22 NO. 8 PUBLISHER / EDITORIAL DIRECTOR MARGARET MONGER | mmonger@athomemms.com

MANAGING EDITOR AUBREY ANN MONGER | aamonger@athomemms.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER GINNI JONES | gjones@athomemms.com

COPY EDITOR TERRI GLAZER

IMAGING COLOR MANAGEMENT CHARLES REYNOLDS | cr@colorretouching.com

ADVERTISING SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE HILARY FRANKEL | hafrankel@comcast.net

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES GAIL HARRELL | gharrell@athomemms.com CHRIS PUGH | chrisapugh@gmail.com

BUSINESS DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS TRIP MONGER | tmonger@athomemms.com

MARKETING AND CIRCULATION HARRIET W. DEATON | hdeaton@athomemms.com

HOW TO REACH US 7776 FARMINGTON BLVD, # 1321 GERMANTOWN TN 38183 | 901.684.4155 ATHOMEMMS.COM At Home Memphis & Mid South doesn't accept unsolicited manuscripts. To inquire about freelance opportunities, send a letter, resume and three writing samples to—Editor, At Home Memphis & Mid South: 7776 Farmington Blvd, # 1321 Germantown TN 38183.

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

@athomemagazine

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November,

for me, is the start of the holiday season and the time my thoughts start to turn toward beginning a new year. It’s a time to reflect on the past year and give thanks for all we are given.

President George Washington issued a proclamation naming Thur., Nov. 26, 1789, as a day of Thanksgiving. Since that date, on the fourth Thursday of November we have celebrated with family, friends and food without calories. The addition of football in November of 1920 allowed our eating binge to last all day!

This Thanksgiving season I give thanks for all of my abundance. I also remember a favorite prayer of mine that doesn't mention the word “thank” at all, but asks God to bless us more. More love, hope and kindness, which I think we will all agree are needed right now. I would like to share it with you: The Peace Prayer of St. Francis of Assisi “Lord, make me an instrument of your peace: where there is hatred, let me sow love: where there is injury, pardon; where there is doubt, faith; where there is despair, hope: where there is darkness, light; where there is sadness, joy. O divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console, to be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love. For it is in giving that we receive, it is in pardoning that we are pardoned, and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life. Amen.”

I think that prayer sums up this year for me. Although I am so thankful for all my blessings, I ask God to fill my heart with more of the qualities he desires. I wish you all a very safe and wonderful November and Thanksgiving.

- Margaret Monger, PUBLISHER

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H O M E F E AT U R E

F l aw l es s ly

Finished

STORY BY TERRI GLAZER | DESIGN BY AMI AUSTIN INTERIOR DESIGN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROSS GROUP CREATIVE 26 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • November 2023

H O M E F E AT U R E

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H O M E F E AT U R E

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When

they bought the house in an established River Oaks neighborhood in 2017, the current owners embarked on a major renovation plan. They created open spaces where walls with narrow doorways had separated rooms. They gutted and completely reworked the kitchen, as well as the bathroom and closets in the primary suite. They repurposed an unused area to become a wine room and added a new front porch.

The couple also furnished it beautifully,

bringing treasured pieces from their previous residence and adding others. Their home was lovely, classic, comfortable and well suited for the parties they love to host.

Yet the wife had the feeling it wasn’t complete. That feeling was especially strong when she was shopping in Laurelwood and discovered Ami Austin Home, the shop and showroom for Ami Austin Interior Design. “Everything she had in the window, I thought, ‘I love that. I could have that in my house!’” she recalls.

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H O M E F E AT U R E

When

Austin came for her

initial visit in the summer of 2023, she was impressed with what she saw. “The first time I came here [the owner] asked me what I would do. I told her if she did nothing that her house was gorgeous,” Austin recalls. The experienced designer did, however, have some ideas for additions that would complete the decor and further enhance the beautiful furnishings already in place.

It was clear that she and her new client were on the same wavelength as far as the finishing touches. Among Austin’s immediate suggestions were giving the entryway a more dynamic look and adding a chandelier over a seating vignette in the living room, two elements that the homeowner had also realized would amplify the overall impact from the moment guests stepped in the front door. “We tried to create some dimension in the foyer,” explains Austin.

“The first thing that I thought when I saw the large wall by the staircase was, ‘This could be predictable…but why not do something really interesting?'" That interest came in the form of a grouping of sculptural butterflies that seem to flutter up the stairway.

Visible from the front entryway, the seating area in the living room needed an overhead focal point. The Ralph Lauren chandelier Austin selected fills the bill perfectly. Its style is classically formal, highlighted by sparkling crystal beading, teardrop pendants, brushed gold framework and silk shades that soften the light. The piece is the ideal accompaniment to the grouping of traditional seating, anchored by an antique Oriental folding screen mounted on the wall behind. Austin’s other contribution to the vignette was a pair of Fortuny leopard-print bolster pillows that look right at home on the center-facing armchairs.

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H O M E F E AT U R E

The

living room flows directly into the large dining room, where a series of full-length windows allows light to stream in and offers views of the inviting back patio and yard. Punctuating the space is a pair of dramatic bronze sculptures from Atlanta’s Cherrylion Studios. Austin placed the statues on custom pedestals from her own line, the Parker Lauren collection. The designer says the art pieces were right for this home, where large groups often gather. “Because they entertain a lot and have people in the home, I didn’t want to clutter, and anything that would

take away from the beautiful view outside did not need to happen. My client liked the idea of more architectural pieces.”

On the adjacent wall hangs “Form Out of Fog,” an original painting by local artist Pam Hassler, inspired by the view on a misty morning on the Wolf River trails. The couple had owned and enjoyed the piece for years, but Austin knew that lighting would bring out its beauty even further. She selected exquisite gold Murano glass sconces to flank the painting. More art than fixture, the gingkoshaped pieces emit muted light, but are every bit as elegant when not illuminated.

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H O M E F E AT U R E

Lighting

and electrical details are of utmost importance to Austin on all her projects, and the difference that expert choices in those two areas can make is apparent throughout this home. In addition to the statement light fixtures she selected, less notable additions also made remarkable differences. She installed subtleyet-effective portrait lights over many of the couple’s works of art to showcase all their beauty. The designer also specified that all the electrical outlets along the kitchen backsplash be moved to the underside of the wall cabinets when the new tile she selected for the area was put in place. “This way, you can see the backsplash unencumbered,” she says. “It makes such a clean look.”

Divulging what she calls a “trick of the trade,” Austin says her secret to getting the most effective lighting with the least damage to walls and ceilings when adding or retrofitting a home’s fixtures is with Pico remote control technology from Lutron Electronics. Using transmitters that can be placed out of sight, the system allows “noninvasive” installation with minimal repair work needed afterwards. The versatile remote controls offer options for the homeowners to use lighting in a variety of ways to create ambiance as they wish.

The lighting, the art, the accessories and the other finishing touches Austin added to this home are a thoughtful completion of the design aesthetic its owners began when they came to live here—the icing on an already beautiful cake.

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DESIGN

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D T RE SAV I GENL

FIRST CLASS SECOND HOME STORY BY TERRI GLAZER | DESIGN BY HILLCO CONSTRUCTION PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROSS GROUP CREATIVE November 2023 • athomemms.com | 39

DESIGN

"w E k ne w w e nee d e d

three bedrooms and two baths.

It didn’t need to be anything extravagant, just simple and cozy. Someplace comfortable and with enough room if the owners and their grown children are all there together. And it didn’t need to be a million dollar house.”

Those were the marching orders Tracy and Bill Hill, owners of HillCo Construction, used as the jumping off point for the turnkey home project they recently finished on a large parcel of land in the southern part of Collierville. Their clients, a California couple, added one more must-have. Says Tracy, “ The client said she wanted color. She likes very bright colors.”

Past that, the owners let their contractors run with the project. From demolishing a rundown house on the property and preparing the lot, to finding and modifying the plans, to building the home, even designing and furnishing the interior, HillCo took care of every phase of the process. “ That ’s a pretty big level of trust on [the homeowners’] part,” Tracy says. Although they maintained constant contact, receiving photos and information from the Hills regularly for approval, the owners didn’t see the house in person until construction was about 75 percent finished.

No doubt they were pleased, though. The Hills hit the design nail squarely on the head, creating a reasonably sized home that is loaded with style and filled with the kind of thoughtful and unique touches that Bill says go into every HillCo project.

The “wow factor ” is evident from the first step inside the front door—an open living area and kitchen highlighted by a bright yellow feature wall. Tracy says the wall’s geometric trim accents came about through “a meeting of the minds” between her, Bill and Micah McCauley, Hillco’s senior project manager. “I originally wanted a circular pattern on the wall. Bill is very symmetrical, though, so we compromised. He and Micah built the trim and installed it themselves.”

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DESIGN

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DESIGN

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DESIGN

T HEY

took the angular

theme a step further by using rightangled lattice molding in place of quarter round or shoe molding.

Explains McCauley, “All the door trim, all the baseboard, everything ’s got a square look to it. It didn’t make sense to insert quarter round up against it.”

The bold yellow of the wall sets the stage for the dark and dramatic feel of the kitchen, where Tracy paired fresh white cabinets with Cosmic Black quartzite countertops and backsplashes. She reprised the dark blue/black paint color from the living room TV enclosure on the kitchen island and dressed up everything , including the GE Cafe appliances, with French gold hardware.

The stunning black-on-black tile wall behind the range is a showstopper, but Bill says future HillCo customers need not aspire to have it in their homes. “We try not to do anything twice in a house,” he says. “We did this custom kitchen just for this house and it wouldn’t be fair to these clients if we took the same thing and put it in someone else’s house,” adds Tracy.

Careful planning and attention to detail allowed this home to have an array of special features not always found in a moderately priced new construction project. The hall bathroom is a prime example. Its deep soaking tub is a step up from

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DESIGN

the more shallow builder-grade steel variety that ’s often used. The placement of the tub and shower controls on the opposite wall from the faucet and sprayer head didn’t happen by chance: McCauley modified the original plans. “It keeps you from getting wet when you’re turning the water on, and you don’t have to reach over the toilet,” he explains. Thanks to a white quartz waterfall counter, a full glass door and more goldtone in the fixtures and accent tile, this bath has an elevated style that proves a small space can make a big impact.

In the primary suite, Tracy designed a bedroom with a quiet, neutral palette, starting with textured wallpaper in shades of white and gray that lines one wall. It makes a perfect backdrop for a simple king-sized bed she decked out in solids of varying textures with a touch of sparkle and pattern on the accent pillows. She sourced the bed, nightstands and bench, along with almost all of the home’s furniture, from article.com, an online retailer of contemporary and mid-century furnishings.

In the adjoining bathroom, black, white and gold combine to produce a modern and elegant feel. Here again, McCauley tweaked the blueprints to improve the room’s layout, removing a window on the front wall to create room for a sizeable second vanity.

With a separate laundry room, a two-car garage, a cozy dining area and a back porch that takes full advantage of the 11-acre property ’s pastoral views, the house is the complete package, a stylish, comfortable place to make the most of family visits.

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DESIGN

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WEDDING

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Ellie Grace & Gregory DRIVER J U LY 1 5 , 2 0 2 3 | M E M P H I S , T N PARENTS OF THE BRIDE: TYKE AND LAURA DARLINGTON PARENTS OF THE GROOM: THE LATE SCOT T DRIVER AND JODY DRIVER JENKINS REHEARSAL DINNER: CHICKASAW COUNTRY CLUB WEDDING & RECEPTION: THE ROBINSHAW WEDDING COORDINATOR: BECCA FRASIER FLORIST: JOHN MARK SHARPE PHOTOGRAPHER: KELLY GINN VIDEOGRAPHER: PHIL COLLING CAKE: MISS MUFF’N CATERING: COLET TA’S ENTERTAINMENT: AL PARIS & THE HEARTBREAKERS WEDDING DRESS: MAGGIE LOUISE BRIDESMAIDS' DRESSES: BELLA BRIDESMAIDS RENTALS: MAHAFFEY EVENT & TENT RENTAL AND WHITE DOOR EVENTS MAKEUP: ISABELLA ALLEN PAPER: RSVP

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EXPERIENCE THIS

OXFORD’S ANNUAL HOLIDAY HOUSE TOUR

T H I S Y E A R ’ S I N S TA L L M E N T O F T H E Y E A R LY T R A D I T I O N W I L L F E AT U R E S O R O R I T Y H O U S E S O N T H E U N I V E R S I T Y OF MISSISSIPPI CAMPUS

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EXPERIENCE THIS

TEXT AND PHOTOS COURTESY OF SUSAN BARTLETT

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EXPERIENCE THIS

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Now a

much-anticipated

Oxford tradition, this year ’s Doors of Hope Transition Ministries Holiday

House Tour will give participants a peek into some of the magnificent sorority houses on the University of Mississippi campus. “We are always looking for beautiful and interesting homes to feature on the holiday house tour. I think participants will love seeing inside these unique residences,” says Doors of Hope fundraising chair Susan Bartlett. The event is set for Sun., Dec. 10, 1-5 p.m.

This year ’s tour will include nine of the beautiful sorority houses on the storied Oxford campus, including the homes of Alpha Delta Pi, Alpha Phi, Chi Omega, Delta Delta Delta, Delta Gamma, Kappa Delta, Kappa Kappa Gamma, Phi Mu and Pi Beta Phi. Each house will be decorated for the holiday season. “We are so excited to be part of this Oxford tradition. Sororities at the University of Mississippi have a long history of philanthropy, and this is a wonderful way for Ole Miss students and alumni to give back to the community that is home to our university,” says Chi Omega house mother Patti Sanders.

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EXPERIENCE THIS

Doors of Hope

Transition Ministries is dedicated to guiding homeless and at-risk homeless families toward self-sufficiency and only serves families with minor children. According to the Annie E. Casey Foundation, 28 percent of Mississippi ’s children live in poverty, and 19 percent of those children are in families likely to face eviction in the near future. “Due to increased rent prices, we have many families who are struggling to stay housed in Lafayette County,” says Mary Margaret Andrews, executive director of Doors of Hope. “Often our families live paycheck to paycheck so when they have a disruption to their work, such as an illness or transportation issues, they get behind on rent and face eviction. The more money we can raise, the more families we can help.”

Tickets for the 2023 Holiday House Tour may be purchased in advance for $30 each at doorsofhopeoxford.org , or at the event tent on Sorority Row on the day of the tour for $35. For information on accessibility, contact Doors of Hope at 662.234.1100.

______________________

Doors of Hope Transition Ministries relies on private financial and in-kind donations and is in constant need of essential household items like new bedding , cleaning supplies, crockpots, diapers and baby wipes. To donate, go to doorsofhopeoxford.org.

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G E TAWAY

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G E TAWAY

A JOLLY SHOPPING WONDERLAND AWAITS IN RIDGELAND TEXT AND PHOTOS COURTESY OF VISIT RIDGELAND

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G E TAWAY Don’t look now, but the holidays are right around the corner!

Amidst the hustle and bustle of the season, it ’s easy to lose the holiday spirit. Never fear, though. A trip to Ridgeland, MS, during the annual Wrap It in Ridgeland event will leave you with enough cheery feelings to last all season long.

Wrap It in Ridgeland is two full months of deals, hotel discounts and holiday events for the whole family, hosted in friendly Ridgeland, MS. With a little something for everyone, Ridgeland is the perfect spot for visitors and locals alike to join in the holiday season this November and December.

R E TA I L T H E R A P Y G A L O R E Shopping for that tricky name on your list? Ridgeland’s retail trail will lead you to the perfect personalized gift. The city is home to a treasure trove of locally owned shops and boutiques.

On Small Business Saturday, Nov. 25, shoppers will find special treats, store discounts, and deals to make shopping locally a breeze.

Ridgeland also has world-class shopping experiences featuring the latest trends from the hottest brands. Spend a day at Renaissance at Colony Park, home to local boutiques, specialty stores and world-renowned brands. Stop by Northpark Mall for a comfortable indoor shopping experience with all the top names in fashion and beyond. Step out the hotel lobby and find fabulous shopping options just a few steps away at the Township at Colony Park.

S TAY A N D S AV O R T H E F L AV O R S Need more than one day in town? Stay for dinner and have a seat at one of the city ’s delectable restaurants. Flavors abound in this culinary hotspot with dozens of eateries within walking distance of Ridgeland’s popular shopping destinations. Whether you’re in the mood for Southern comfort food, international cuisine or cozy cafe fare, Ridgeland has it all.

Comfy accommodations await at 16 area hotels. Be sure to check for Wrap It in Ridgeland hotel deals (www.visitridgeland.com/ wrapit/) before you book. Visit Ridgeland will sweeten the deal with every hotel booking. Stop by the Ridgeland Visitors Center and mention that you’re in town for Wrap it in Ridgeland to receive a high-quality tote bag for your treasures.

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T RE AV G TAWAY EL

FESTIVE FUN FOR ALL AGES Beyond the shopping, Ridgeland's slate of familyfriendly community events all season long will keep everyone in the holiday spirit and create lasting memories. Don’t miss the annual Christmas Tree Lighting celebration at Old Town Crossing on Dec. 1.

There’s nothing quite like the glow of a beautifully lit Christmas tree to put you in the holiday spirit.

The Ridgeland Christmas Parade rolls through Old Town Ridgeland on Dec. 3. With floats, marching bands and the jolly old man himself, it’s a sight to behold!

Speaking of the man in red, Santa’s in town for a month. Throughout December, he’ll be taking gift requests and posing for pictures with the whole family at Northpark. It’s an experience that will delight the kids and make for cherished family photos.

The renowned Chimneyville Arts Festival will take place Dec. 2-3 at the Bill Waller Craft Center. This celebrated event offers handcrafted items made by members of the Craftsmen’s Guild of Mississippi and fun activities for the entire family all day long.

It’s a fantastic opportunity to support local artists and find unique, one-of-a-kind gifts.

The friendly city of Ridgeland warmly invites Mid Southerners to come celebrate the holiday season for a day or longer. Wrap up your shopping in Ridgeland to make this season one to remember, then stay for the festivities and savor the warm Southern hospitality. Find the holiday spirit in Ridgeland!

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T R AV E L

T E X T A N D P H O T O S C O U R T E S Y O F B A R B A R A M A Y, O W N E R O F T R A V E L L E A D E R S

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T R AV E L

DISCOVER CROATIA

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T R AV E L

Have you ever heard of Croatia?

It is becoming a popular travel destination thanks to its blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, historic sites and diverse experiences that make it a captivating and well-rounded vacation spot.

Many travelers opt to visit as part of a Mediterranean cruise. Dubrovnik, Split and other Croatian coastal cities are often included in itineraries, making cruising a convenient way to see multiple destinations in one trip. Guided, landbased tours are another great way to explore the country. Croatia is wellconnected by air, with international airports in Zagreb, Split and Dubrovnik.

Croatia is located at the crossroads of Central and Southeast Europe. From cascading waterfalls, lush forests and unique geological formations to Adriatic coastlines dotted with pristine beaches, hidden coves and crystal waters, its scenery is varied and stunning.

The region is also rich in history and architecture, with well-preserved medieval towns and cities. Croatia offers a wide range of attractions, and the “must-sees” can vary depending on individual interests and the length of visit. In addition to its large cities, Croatia has more than a thousand islands, each with its own unique charm. Popular islands include Hvar, Brac, Korcula, and Vis. These islands offer a relaxed Mediterranean vibe, with picturesque villages, excellent seafood and numerous water activities.

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TTRRAV AVEELL

top destinations and attractions in Croatia D U B R O V N I K : Dubrovnik is often referred to as the “Pearl of the Adriatic” because of its rich history, Gothic and Renaissance architecture and charming Old Town.

Perfect for walking , Dubrovik juts out into the sea and is ringed by medieval walls. Be sure to walk the walls and visit attractions like Rector ’s Palace and Dubrovnik Cathedral, and make a stop by one of the city ’s bustling markets.

P I L E G AT E serves as the main entry point into Dubrovnik, and it is where most every tour of the city begins. Considered the city ’s transport hub, the gate was constructed on the western wall in 1537 in order to provide secure entry to defenders fighting against foreign invaders. Fans of Game of Thrones will probably recognize the gate, as it was featured on the longrunning TV program several times. Can’t get enough GoT? Take a city tour dedicated to the popular series, led by a tour guide who was directly involved with the production. Get the inside scoop while visiting landmarks such as the Lovrijenac Fortress (the filming site of the Red Keep), and play with swords and props from the show—an exclusive experience fans love.

S P L I T is home to Diocletian’s Palace, a magnificent UNESCO World Heritage site. It stretches across miles of sandy beaches and sits between soaring mountains and the Adriatic Sea. The palace complex features ancient architecture, bustling markets and a vibrant atmosphere.

For an interesting side trip, take a 1.5-hour ferry ride from Split to Hvar Island. One of Croatia’s most popular islands, Hvar is known for its beautiful beaches, historic town with a medieval fortress, and a lively nightlife scene. Hvar is located off the Dalmatian coast, lying between the islands of Brač, Vis and Korčula, and is approximately 68 km long. Rent a scooter or hire a local guide to visit the island’s hidden coves and beaches.

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TTRRAV AVEELL

T H E KO R N AT I I S L A N D S : Perfect for nature lovers and boating enthusiasts, the Kornati Islands National Park offers a stunning archipelago with rugged coastlines, clear waters and numerous islands to explore.

Wine tastings and vineyard tours are also popular here.

Croatia’s cultural heritage is deeply rooted, and has been shaped by various civilizations throughout the centuries. History buffs can explore ancient Roman ruins, appreciate Venetian architecture and enjoy Slavic traditions within its borders. The country hosts numerous festivals, art exhibitions and cultural events throughout the year.

Croatian cuisine is a delightful mix of Mediterranean, Italian and Central European influences. Seafood is a staple, with fresh catch-of-the-day dishes highlighting menus in coastal towns. Inland, choices lean more toward hearty meats, cheeses and trufflebased specialties. Local wines and olive oils are outstanding.

Croatia has invested in its tourism infrastructure, offering a wide range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hostels. The locals are generally friendly and welcoming , making visitors feel at home.

Croatia’s natural beauty, historic sites, delicious cuisine and diverse activities make it a top travel destination in Europe. Explore ancient cities, relax on pristine beaches, or embark on outdoor adventures—the country has something to offer every type of traveler.

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TTRRAV AVEELL

Ferries are the best option for reaching Croatia’s many islands and exploring the Adriatic coast. They operate between the mainland and various islands, as well as between coastal towns. Once on an island, explore by train or rental car, or hire a driver for the day to get an insider ’s view.

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T R AV E L

For more information, contact Travel Leaders at 901.37 7.6600 or 901.853.6200 or visit www.gotravelleaders.com. Offices, open by appointment only, are located at 2765 Wolf Creek Pkwy., Ste. 104, Memphis, and 155 N Main St., Ste. 101A, Collierville.

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IN THE KITCHEN

Sausage Coffee Cake

Every Thanksgiving Day as far back as I remember started with the Macy’s Parade and sausage coffee cake with homemade fig preserves. I grew up with a fig tree in the yard of my childhood home in Natchez, MS, and I was determined to have one in our yard in Germantown. I did until last year’s frigid temps took her out. I was thrilled to find fresh figs at Trader Joe’s this year, so the tradition can continue until my newly planted tree takes off. Plus, I always stash a couple extra jars of the preserves away for desperate times.

We always served this delish sausage dish with the fig preserves on top, but a nicely poached egg is divine as well!

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S AU S AG E C O F F E E C A K E COURTESY OF SISSY EIDT AND LOUISIANA ENTERTAINS COOKBOOK

1 LB. GOOD QUALITY PORK SAUSAGE ½ CUP CHOPPED ONIONS ¼ CUP GRATED PARMESAN CHEESE ½ CUP GRATED SWISS CHEESE 1 EGG, BEATEN DASH OF HOT SAUCE (I USE TABASCO) 1½ TSP. SALT 2 TSP. CHOPPED PARSLEY 2 CUPS BISQUICK BAKING MIX ¾ CUP MILK ¼ CUP MAYONNAISE 1 EGG YOLK 1 TBSP. WATER

BROWN THE SAUSAGE AND ONIONS AND DRAIN WELL. ADD THE NEXT 6 INGREDIENTS. MAKE A BAT TER OF BISQUICK, MILK AND MAYONNAISE. SPREAD HALF OF THE BAT TER IN A 9 X 9 X 2-INCH GREASED PAN. (I USE SOME OF THE DRAINED SAUSAGE GREASE FOR THIS!) SPREAD THE SAUSAGE MIXTURE OVER THE TOP AND THEN SPREAD THE REMAINING BAT TER ON TOP OF THE SAUSAGE MIXTURE. MIX THE EGG YOLK AND WATER AND BRUSH OVER THE TOP. BAKE AT 400˚ FOR 25-30 MINUTES OR UNTIL THE CAKE LEAVES THE EDGES OF THE PAN. COOL 5 MINUTES BEFORE CUT TING. THIS RECIPE DOUBLES EASILY IN A 9 X 13-INCH PAN AND IT FREEZES GREAT!

F I G P R E S E RV E S

COURTESY OF MARGARET MONGER 2 GALLONS FIGS 2 GALLONS WATER ½ CUP BAKING SODA 5 LBS. SUGAR 2 LEMONS, THINLY SLICED DISSOLVE SODA IN WATER AND SOAK WHOLE FIGS FOR 15 MINUTES. RINSE THOROUGHLY AND DRAIN. PUT FIGS IN A HEAVY SAUCEPAN WITH SUGAR AND LEMONS. START COOKING ON VERY LOW HEAT UNTIL THE SUGAR MELTS, STIRRING TO PREVENT STICKING. GRADUALLY INCREASE HEAT TO MEDIUM AND ALLOW MIXTURE TO SIMMER, UNCOVERED, FOR 3 HOURS. THE MIXTURE SHOULD BE THE CONSISTENCY OF SYRUP. POUR INTO HOT JARS AND SEAL IMMEDIATELY. MAKES 8-9 PINTS.

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H E A LT H Y Y O U

The Power of Gratitude During Holiday Gatherings

STORY MICHELLE JOHNS

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

T h e h o l i day s e as o n i s f u l l o f to g e t h e r n es s a n d c e l e b rat i o n . I t ’ s a t i m e w h e n w e gat h e r w i t h fa m i ly a n d f r i e n d s to e x p r es s ou r lov e a n d a p p r ec i at i o n fo r o n e a n ot h e r . H ow e v e r , t h es e gat h e r i n g s o f t e n i n c lu d e b ot h t h o s e w e cherish and those who c h a l l e n g e u s , c r e at i n g a m i x o f e m ot i o n s a n d st r es s o rs .

S t re s s i s a n i n e v i ta b l e p a r t o f d a i l y l i fe a n d d u r i n g t h e h o l i d ays i t c a n b e c o m e t r i g g e re d e a s i l y. I t c a n m a n i fe st f ro m t h e p re s s u re o f h o st i n g t h e “ p e r fe c t ” e v e nt o r t h e a nx i e t y o f m a n a g i n g c h a l l e n g i n g p e rs o n a l i t i e s . A 2 0 1 0 st re s s st u d y b y t h e A m e r i c a n Psyc h o l o g i c a l A s s o c i at i o n

80 | At Home Memphis & Mid South • November 2023

s h o we d st re s s m o st o f te n re s u l t s i n t ro u b l e s l e e p i n g , fat i g u e a n d i r r i ta b i l i t y o r a n g e r, w h i c h o n l y exa c e r b ate s t h e condition.

A c k n o w l e d g i n g st re s s a n d e n ga g i n g c o p i n g m e c h a n i s m s c a n m a ke i t m o re m a n a g e a b l e . T h o u g h t h e h o l i d ays a re a t i m e o f o u t wa rd fo c u s , i t ’s e s s e nt i a l to p r i o r i t i ze s e l f- c a re . A l l o w i n g o t h e rs to h e l p w i t h ga t h e r i n g s m ay m a ke t h e m fe e l a p p re c i a te d a n d m o re a p a r t o f t h e c e l e b ra t i o n s . Av o i d b e c o m i n g o v e r w h e l m e d b y a s k i n g fo r h e l p a n d d e l e gat i n g re s p o n s i b i l i t i e s to o t h e rs . E n ga g i n g i n a c t i v i t i e s s u c h a s m e d i ta t i o n , yo ga o r ta k i n g a n a t u re wa l k c a n b e re sto ra t i v e fo r b o t h e m o t i o n a l a n d p hys i c a l we l l - b e i n g . S tay m i n d f u l o f p re s e nt m o m e nt s i t u a t i o n s a n d p ra c t i c e b re at h i n g te c h n i q u e s to b e c e nte re d i n te n s e s i t u at i o n s . M o st i m p o r ta nt l y, s e t re a l i st i c ex p e c tat i o n s fo r yo u rs e l f a n d o t h e rs , a n d d o n ’ t b e a f ra i d to s ay n o w h e n n e c e s s a r y.

H E A LT H Y Y O U

W h i l e i t ’s e a sy to c o n n e c t w i t h l i ke m i n d e d i n d i v i d u a l s , t h e re a l i t y i s t h a t ex p a n d e d fa m i l i e s a n d s o c i a l c i rc l e s b r i n g a d i v e rs e s e t o f p e rs p e c t i v e s to a ny gat h e r i n g . Re m e m b e r t h at yo u c a n n o t c o nt ro l h o w o t h e rs b e h av e , b u t yo u c a n c o nt ro l yo u r re a c t i o n s . C h o o s i n g to re s p o n d w i t h p at i e n c e a n d k i n d n e s s c a n d e f u s e c o n f l i c t s a n d p o te nt i a l l y l e a d to m o re m e a n i n g f u l c o n n e c t i o n s . I t ’s a l s o i m p o r ta nt to s e t h e a l t hy b o u n d a r i e s , e v e n w i t h l o v e d o n e s , to p ro te c t yo u r we l l - b e i n g . C o m m u n i c ate yo u r n e e d s a n d l i m i t s c l e a r l y, a l l o w i n g fo r s m o o t h e r i nte ra c t i o n s a n d re d u c e d st re s s . Yo u h av e t h e r i g ht a n d re s p o n s i b i l i t y to c a re fo r yo u rs e l f a n d s e t a p p ro p r i ate b o u n d a r i e s w i t h o t h e rs . E xe rc i s e t h at r i g ht , b u t t r y to av o i d wo rd s t h at i n c i te c o u nte r a rg u m e nt s , w i t h d ra wa l a n d d e fe n s i v e n e s s .

G ra t i t u d e , fo c u s i n g o n a n d a p p re c i at i n g the positive things in our lives, is a p o we r f u l p ra c t i c e t h at c a n t ra n sfo r m t h e way we ex p e r i e n c e h o l i d ay gat h e r i n g s .

W h e n we c u l t i vate a s e n s e o f g rat i t u d e , c h a l l e n g i n g i nte ra c t i o n s c a n b e c o m e l e s s f r u st rat i n g . C o m m u n i c at i n g g rat i t u d e to o t h e rs c a n st re n gt h e n re l at i o n s h i p s a n d d e e p e n c o n n e c t i o n w i t h t h o s e we l o v e . Tr y sta r t i n g a n d e n d i n g e a c h d ay w i t h a m o m e nt o f g rat i t u d e , l i st i n g t h re e t h i n g s fo r w h i c h yo u a re t h a n k f u l . N o t i c e w h e t h e r yo u ex p e r i e n c e a s h i f t to wa rd m o re i n n e r p e a c e .

B y m a k i n g a c o n s c i o u s e ffo r t to c o u nt o u r b l e s s i n g s , we n o t o n l y i m p ro v e o u r m o o d b u t a l s o e n c o u ra g e a m o re p o s i t i v e at m o s p h e re a t gat h e r i n g s . S h a r i n g g ra t i t u d e w i t h o t h e rs c a n i n s p i re t h e m to d o t h e s a m e , c re a t i n g a r i p p l e e ffe c t o f p o s i t i v i t y. W h e t h e r i t ’s t h e c o m m u n i o n o f fo o d o n t h e ta b l e , s h a re d l a u g hte r o r t h e p re s e n c e o f l o v e d o n e s , f i n d i n g s o m e t h i n g to b e t h a n k f u l fo r c a n h e l p u s n av i ga te t h e c o m p l ex i t i e s o f h o l i d ay i nte ra c t i o n s .

W h e n we p ra c t i c e g rat i t u d e , we re d u c e t h e e m o t i o n a l b a g ga g e t h at o f te n a c c o m p a n i e s st re s sf u l e n c o u nte rs .

B y i n c o r p o rat i n g t h e s e p ra c t i c e s a n d p r i n c i p l e s o f g rat i t u d e a n d e ffe c t i v e st re s s m a n a g e m e nt , we c a n t ra n sfo r m p o te nt i a l l y st re s sf u l s i t u at i o n s i nto o p p o r t u n i t i e s fo r j o y.

A f t e r a l l , t h e h o l i day s e as o n i s n ot j u st a b ou t t h e f est i v i t i es ; i t ’ s a ls o a b ou t t h e r e l at i o n s h i ps w e n u rt u r e a n d t h e p e rs o n a l g r ow t h w e ac h i e v e a lo n g t h e way .

M ay you a p p r oac h t h i s s e as o n w i t h a n o p e n h e a rt , a n d l e t g rat i t u d e g u i d e you towa r d a m o r e p e ac e f u l a n d h a r m o n i ou s c e l e b rat i o n .

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NOVEMBER 2 023 SOURCES H O M E F E AT U R E Special Thanks Ami Austin amiaustininteriors.com Ross Group Creative rossgroupcreative.com

DESIGN Special Thanks Hill Co. Construction webuildmemphis.com Ross Group Creative rossgroupcreative.com

E XPE RIE N C E T H I S Special Thanks Doors of Hope Transition Ministries doorsofhopeoxford.org

GE TAWAY Special Thanks Visit Ridgeland visitridgeland.com

TRAVEL Special Thanks Travel Leaders 901.853.6200, 901.377.6600

HEALTHY YOU Special Thanks Michelle Johns mjohns@transformingwellness.com

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