September 2023

FEATURING SELENA MCADAMS OF SPRUCE

GETAWAY IN DAHLONEGA, GEORGIA

26 | HOME FEATURE

A classic East Memphis home in a beautiful setting gets a touch of whimsy by Selena McAdams of spruce.

56 | GETAWAY

Mother Nature shows off her splendor every fall in the Blue Ridge Mountains of north Georgia, an easy drive from the Mid South and the perfect spot for a quick getaway to Dahlonega Resorts & Vineyard.

SEPTEMBER 2023 • VOL. 22 NO. 6

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

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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

Asthe lazy days of summer dwindle away, September leads to the fall, which brings crisp, cooler temps and beautiful changing colors of our foliage. And while it’s a little sad

to say goodbye to summertime living, the month of September offers the perfect intermediary between the dog days and autumn, which usually comes in late October, or even November in the Mid South. Around here, we are pretty much still sweating or “glowing” the entire month of September!

When we bid goodby to summer, like they say in football, it’s time for the fourth quarter! I might have to break out my retired, Covidapproved face mask to buffer the odor of those rancid cinnamon brooms and pumpkin-scented everything except pumpkin, but it’s a fair trade for watching my yard man/husband rake leaves while I don’t, Friday night lights and SEC Game Day! We will love chasing Crawford and Miles in the Grove this year, but that will change soon. This time next year Maggie and Buddy will be enjoying another grand in the Grove, as Miles will welcome a baby brother next February. Our life just keeps getting more blessed!

Y’all all remember on the 21st day of September to dance the night away:)

PUBLISHER

- Margaret Monger,

a touch of

Whimsy

STORY BY TERRI GLAZER | DESIGN BY SELENA MCADAMS OF SPRUCE PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEFANIE RAWLINSON

Thehouse itself was a jewel— tucked away on a quiet and picturesque street in East Memphis with classic architecture, a beautiful setting and a just-right floor plan. So much so that the young couple who lived next door had their eye on it for some time. When it came up for sale they couldn’t resist. They made the short move in early 2021 and began the process of making it into the perfect home for their growing family.

The pair enlisted the help of designer Selena McAdams, who recognized immediately that the new place’s traditional decor needed a youthful makeover with a pinch of whimsy to

accurately reflect its new residents. The job entailed repurposing and repositioning much of the couple’s existing furniture and rugs, adding along the way to complete the look.

Changes have come in order of need, says the homeowner, pointing out the new runner on the entryway staircase. The carpet took top priority, as the old rug’s rough texture was prickly to her two little daughters’ bare feet.

“They had to walk on the wooden edges of the treads to get up to their bedrooms,” she recalls. McAdams suggested a blue and white patterned runner with a soft feel and look.

think"Ithe runner sets the tone,” says the designer. Its periwinkle blue, a favorite of the homeowners, appears throughout the new design. "We have a note of that [color] in each room to connect everything. The house was so traditional before, with lots of darker neutrals. Now it feels brighter, a little more transitional and full of energy.”

The living room is a prime example of McAdams’s masterful ability to create liveable rooms with a nod to formality. Comfortable seating and a cowhide coffee table, all sourced from Spruce, give the family a gathering spot that’s cozy yet on the dressy side. Two pairs of large art panels brought from the owners’ previous home give the room an elegant feel. The designer juxtaposed the Impressionist-inspired paintings with a bold wall art piece by Angela Chrusciaki Blehm and black and white accent pillows on the sofa below it. A sputnikstyle overhead fixture draws the eye up to the newly painted light blue ceiling. The color McAdams chose was only slightly different from the existing gray, says the homeowner, but the effect is substantial. “It’s much more ‘us,’” she says.

The blue extends into the adjacent dining room’s walls, punched up by crisp white trim and wainscoting. The light-filled space is scaled as generously as the living room, making it the perfect setting for the custom dining table. McAdams recalls how the piece came to be. “When the homeowners and I were looking at countertops for the kitchen we ran across this slab of quartzite and we all three stopped to look because it was so beautiful. The idea of creating their dining room table out of that one slab just so they could have it in their home came about.” At 120 inches long, the ogee-edge slab needed three supports for its weight. McAdams chose a trio of gold-toned, geometric bases and surrounded the table with neutral rattan chairs in keeping with the project’s dressy/comfortable theme. The homeowner couldn’t be happier. “Our main idea was that we didn’t want the dining room to be a stuffy room that no one ever went in. This is a little more casual, more family friendly. The girls can sit in here and do a project,” she says.

theroom's

existing iron chandelier received a fresh goldleaf treatment; the metallic finish is reprised in the shades of the two contemporary lights on the buffet. Those lamps illuminate a series of paintings brought from the clients’ former home, but hung in a new grouping; one horizontal row for maximum impact on the large expanse of wall. “It’s great that Selena repurposed pieces that we loved,” says the homeowner. “I would never have thought to hang those that way.”

A small passthrough between the dining room and the sitting room received a big style change with a new wine cooler, white

cabinet and counter, and pretty wallpaper in shades of periwinkle. McAdams repeated the wall treatment in the hall area outside the downstairs guest room.

The home’s signature color is showcased in the kitchen, where lavender-blue cabinets play perfectly off clean white appliances, counters and backsplash. Of course, the design combines modern and traditional elements: sleek brass and white vinyl barstools stand at the peninsula’s eating area, while mid-century tulip chairs surround a classic wooden table. McAdams took the opportunity to play up the whimsy in the kitchen rug and artwork with colorful choices that have become the young family’s favorite parts of the room.

thearea behind the kitchen received the most extensive renovation of any part of the house. McAdams reconfigured the home’s hub, the rear entry, laundry room and butler’s pantry, to alleviate the bottleneck that occurred when all four family members entered the house at once. The new layout provides room for everyone and lots of storage areas that are as attractive as they are practical.

A guest suite as well as the primary bedroom and bath complete the layout of the downstairs. The designer created a serene aura in the guest room, again combining existing items with new; time-honored with current. The blue appears here in botanical-print linen pillows, and blush joins the palette in the full-length drapes. Further interest comes from the lighting, a Visual Comfort chandelier and minimalist bedside sconces.

In the primary bedroom the designer emphasized the “really great pieces” the homeowners brought along in the move. “We repurposed, filtered in, filled in,” she says. The room’s colors are light neutral tones; a quiet palette, but still with plenty of interest. In keeping with the tranquil feel, McAdams styled the room’s built-in bookshelves in all white items. Rosy blush makes an appearance in this bedroom too, this time in a coverlet and accent pillows.

The upstairs of the home is the domain of the two young daughters, and their bedrooms are the sweetest nods to girlhood. In the older sister’s room soft blue walls set the tone. The “big girl bed” from her room in the previous house is a perfect fit. It features a headboard upholstered in soft lavender velvet, a simple white coverlet and a bedskirt with sophisticated purple Greek key trim. A dusty violet bolster adds an elegant touch to the room’s timeless design, achieved, again, by blending existing pieces with just the right new additions.

theyounger daughter’s room is dreamy, with a traditional trundle bed, a tiny table and chairs, plenty of open space to play and tons of toy storage. There’s even a sitting area, complete with a little-girlsized pink sofa, a pair of floor lamps and a chenille tuffet that would be the envy of Miss Muffet herself. The home is still a work in progress, and McAdams will be thrilled to once again be at the design helm as the bathrooms and other spaces receive a new look that reflects the family’s style, with just a bit of whimsy. She says, “They’re so open to design with fun moments, and that is really exciting!”

Montgomery &Tanner HOWARD

OCTOBER 29, 2022 | WEST POINT, MS

PARENTS OF THE BRIDE: WILLIAM AND CAROLINE ATKINS

PARENTS OF THE GROOM: CHRIS AND MARIANNE HOWARD

WEDDING: FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

RECEPTION: MOSSY OAK GOLF COURSE

WEDDING COORDINATOR: KYLE BOLAND

FLORIST: SCOTT REED OF PETAL PUSHERS

PHOTOGRAPHER: ELENA JAMESON

VIDEOGRAPHER: WILD FERN

CAKE: BARNYARD BAKERY

CATERING: HARDING CATERING

ENTERTAINMENT: THE SOUL SHOCKERS

WEDDING DRESS: BRIDE AND GROOM

BRIDESMAIDS' DRESSES : BHLDN

MAKEUP: RIVERS KEYES

HAIR: AVERY MISKELLY AND AMANDA HATHCOCK

PAPER: HALODESIGNSSHOP

CURACAO

Looking for a perfect getaway filled with sun, sand and sea?

The island of Curacao can be the ultimate holiday destination, thanks to its rich culture, scenic beauty and perfect tropical weather.

TEXT BY BARBARA MAY | PHOTOS COURTESY OF ANDREW FRASER

HOW TO PRONOUNCE CURACAO?

The name of this island destination starts with a hard “C” which is pronounced as a "k", while the second “c” is pronounced as an “s.” Curacao is pronounced as Cure-ah-souw.

The island of Curacao is a spot where architectural, cultural and culinary influences from across the globe melt together to create a Caribbean gem like no other. Curacao is truly a picture of tropical bliss, tucked away in the southern Caribbean Sea, known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, scenery, natural landscapes and colorful architecture.

There’s something for everyone on this rich tropical isle, making it a destination to add straight to the top of any vacation bucket list. As part of the Dutch Antilles, commonly known as the ABC islands, alongside Aruba and Bonaire, Curacao’s past tells a fascinating tale of cultural fusion. Shaped by various colonial powers including the Spanish, British and Dutch, this enchanting island seamlessly blends European and Caribbean influences, evident in its architecture, language and customs.

The island’s lively streets showcase its rich musical heritage; traditional tambú and tumba blend with upbeat reggae and salsa tunes. To get a taste of Curacaoan music, just stroll around the capital, Willemstad, and see how street musicians bring the melodies to life amid the chatter of market vendors.

SAVOR THE ISLAND FLAVORS

Curacao’s cuisine is a blend of African, Southern American and European influences. This fusion is evident not only in the island’s food, but also in the music and in festivals that provide visitors a unique cultural experience.

Curacao’s alluring fusion of Caribbean and European flavors promises to please even the most discerning palate. The island has a diverse dining scene that offers both local and international cuisines, including fresh seafood and traditional Dutch treats. It also boasts a vibrant nightlife for visitors who keep late hours.

TRADITIONAL CURACAOAN FOODS:

1. Keshi Yená: This dish is a real Curacaoan classic, consisting of a large, round cheese that is stuffed with a mixture of spiced meat, onions, tomatoes, olives, capers and raisins before being baked until it’s gooey.

2. Stobá: A hearty stew that can be made with a variety of meats, such as goat (kabritu), beef or chicken, stobá is another of the island’s staple dishes. It is often served with rice or funchi, a local cornmeal dish.

3. Pastechi: These tasty fried pastries are a popular snack and can be found at bakeries and street vendors’ stands throughout the island. Pastechi is typically filled with ingredients like seasoned ground beef, chicken, cheese or even seafood.

4. Ayaka: A traditional holiday dish, ayakas are made of seasoned meat—usually chicken, beef or pork—mixed with olives, raisins and capers, and then wrapped in dough and a banana leaf. The pieces are then steamed or boiled.

5. Arepa di Pampuna: Arepa di pampuna is a sweet pumpkin pancake that is a favorite treat amongst the locals. Made with grated pumpkin, flour, sugar and spices, these delicious pancakes are often enjoyed for breakfast or dessert, sometimes topped with syrup or a sprinkle of sugar.

Sandals Royal Curacao makes it easy to explore the local cuisine by giving guests who book a stay of seven nights or more in a butler suite a $250 Dine Out Credit. The unique perk allows vacationers the chance to sample some of the best restaurants in Curacao. Those who prefer to stay on the resort to dine will find just as much to tantalize their taste buds with Sandals’ all-included dining options available.

Curaçao isn’t only known for its vibrant cuisine, but also for its array of tasty local beverages. Perhaps the most iconic of all is Blue Curacao, a liqueur made from the dried peels of the laraha citrus fruit, which is native to the island. This electric blue liqueur is a popular ingredient in many cocktails, including the Blue Margarita and the Blue Lagoon. In addition to its famous namesake liqueur, Curacao also offers a variety of refreshing, locally-produced soft drinks such as Awa Di Koko, Awa Di Lamunchi and Fria. Beer lovers will enjoy an island-inspired brew like Amstel Bright or Polar to quench their thirst on a sunny day.

DISCOVER THE WONDERS OF CURACAO

The capital city of Willemstad is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is famous for its distinctive Dutch colonial architecture. The colorful pastel buildings lining the waterfront in the Punda and Otrobanda districts create a charming and photogenic atmosphere. A relaxed walk along the iconic Handelskade waterfront is the perfect way to take in the vibrant facades that paint a picturesque scene against the backdrop of St. Anna Bay. The dramatic coastline of the island showcases a stunning contrast of lush greenery and rugged, windswept cliffs. The natural beauty is on full display at Sandals Royal Curacao; the resort sits adjacent to the shoreline, nestled into the countryside with scenery to admire from every angle.

Go a step further and explore the beauty below the surface. Curacao is renowned for its exceptional scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities. Two top diving spots include the Tugboat Wreck and Mushroom Forest. The clear waters of Curacao are home to a dazzling display of marine life, with vivid coral reefs and all kinds of tropical fish, sea turtles and even dolphins that combine to create an underwater masterpiece.

MORE TO DO AND SEE IN CURACAO:

THE QUEEN EMMA PONTOON BRIDGE:

The Queen Emma pontoon bridge is a must-see local attraction. True to its name, this pedestrian bridge floats on St. Anna Bay; it opens at the halfway point regularly to let oceangoing vessels pass through. Strolling its length between these openings makes for a sublime experience, especially with the colorful view of Otrobanda across its length.

MOUNT CHRISTOFFEL NATIONAL PARK:

For a walk more dynamic than a stroll on the beach, head to Christoffel National Park, specifically to Mount Christoffel. As the highest point of Curacao at 1,220 feet, Mount Christoffel is a breezy hike; expect it to take two to three hours depending on your level of fitness. The reward for the trek? Sweeping, bird’s-eye views of the tropical isle. Snap a few photos and stay awhile before heading back down. Mount Christoffel may not be literally the top of the world, but it sure feels like it.

CURACAO OSTRICH FARM:

Visit this one-of-a-kind farm to learn about and interact with these fascinating birds. Take a guided tour, feed the ostriches, and even ride an ostrich. An off-road safari adventure will explore the rugged and lesspopulated parts of the island. Ride in a jeep and discover hidden beaches, natural pools and scenic viewpoints.

GOLF AT THE OLD QUARRY:

Golfers will rave about the once-in-a-lifetime experience at the Old Quarry Golf Course, designed by the legendary golf architect Pete Dye. The course draws its name from the historic quarries where famed Curacao marble is mined. Dye’s championship seaside layout was designed to fit seamlessly into the island’s hills and valleys. A challenge to players of all skill levels, the course meanders between the stunning blue Caribbean Sea, the slopes and hills of the Tafelberg Mountain and the sheltered bay known as Spanish Water. The handsome clubhouse and restaurant answer golfers’ needs and provide a spectacular view of the Caribbean Sea.

THE IDEAL WAY TO VISIT CURACAO:

The all-inclusive Sandals Royal Curacao affords guests plenty of time to experience all the sights and flavors of the island along with the luxury of a top-level resort: unlimited fine dining across the eight restaurants, unlimited premium liquor across the 13 bars (including the swim-up bar), unlimited water sports, nightly entertainment and live shows. The resort was designed with romance in mind—couples can enjoy a few new twists on Sandals’ signature accommodations: the Awa Seaside Bungalows with private pools, the Kurason Island Suites overlooking a heart-shaped pool, and the unique Dos Awa Two-Level Infinity Pool are all bound to excite guests. Twelve all-new dining concepts, including Sandals’ first-ever floating restaurant and three new food trucks, will delight. Guests in select rooms have access to complimentary use of a MINI Cooper, giving them the opportunity to explore all the island’s romantic nooks and crannies. This is no regular getaway!

Sandals Royal Curacao is located just a scenic 40-minute drive from Curacao International Airport (CUR). Transfers to and from the resort are included in the booking price.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO TRAVEL TO CURACAO?

The dry season runs from January to September. High season, when the weather is most favorable and the tourist population swells, is from December to April. Shoulder seasons, from May to June and September to November, offer a good balance between pleasant weather and smaller crowds, and can be great months to visit.

Come explore the heart of the ABC islands. From its colorful buildings to its pristine beaches, Curacao is a tropical paradise with a wealth of experiences to offer. Not sure how to start planning for the big trip? A travel professional can help plan an itinerary that satisfies your every wish.

To plan and book a vacation to Curacao or another exciting destination, contact Travel Leaders at 901.377.6600 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.

STORY BY TERRI GLAZER | PHOTOS COURTESY OF DAHLONEGA RESORT & VINEYARD

FALL IN THE FOOTHILLS

DISCOVER BEAUTIFUL AND HISTORIC DAHLONEGA, GEORGIA, A GEM IN THE BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAINS.

Fall

is coming! Autumn officially starts on Sept. 23, and not long after its arrival all the beauty of the season will unfold. Mother Nature shows off her splendor every fall in the Blue Ridge Mountains of north Georgia, an easy drive from the Mid South and the perfect spot for a quick getaway. Nestled in the mountain foothills, the Dahlonega Resort and Vineyard is a cozy retreat in a set beautiful and historic region.

In the 1830s Dahlonega was the site of the first major gold rush in the United States. Today, there’s no rush of any kind to be experienced. The relaxed pace at Dahlonega Resort calls for activities like rocking on the front porch, sipping a glass of Georgia wine and taking in the mountain views.

Imagine a perfect fall day. Would it include a walk on a wooded trail, spending meditative time circling a labyrinth, indulging in a healing massage, tasting a variety of local wines or enjoying a gourmet picnic surrounded by glorious autumn scenery? These activities and more await guests at Dahlonega Resort, but those who long to enjoy a day of quiet stillness will find that a possibility, as well. None of the resort’s 11 bed and breakfast rooms are equipped with a TV, making them the ideal place to unplug.

Theresort’s variety of accommodations will suit all sorts of guests. In addition to the main inn, the Villa, a short stroll away, features several guest rooms and a suite large enough to accommodate a family. Eight freestanding cabins on the grounds provide a stunning mountain backdrop for a fall getaway.

What would a vacation be without delicious food? No need to worry; Dahlonega Resort’s restaurant serves breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner with menus that focus on fresh, seasonal and local ingredients. The executive chef and winemakers work hand in hand, seamlessly pairing Georgia wines with the fare to create a culinary journey found nowhere else in the area.

Two sister properties also offer lodging nearby. Just a mile away, on the Kaya Vineyards property, four Craftsman cottages sit in an idyllic setting—mountains on one side and vineyards on the other. Sylvan Valley Lodge and Cellars specializes in rustic comfort. Whether in a comfortable lodge room or a cabin on site, guests will feel warm relaxation surrounded by nature’s beauty.

At Home Memphis and Mid South readers who book a stay this fall at Dahlonega Resort and Cottages will receive two exclusive offers: a 15 percent discount on regular nightly rates as well as a free appetizer (valued at $20) in the restaurant. Just mention this article to take advantage of these special offers. For more information, to book a stay or to find out about hosting a special event at this charming destination, go to dahlonegasresort.com or call 706.865.7678.

TAILGATE TIME!

RECIPES COURTESY OF SISSY EIDT

ALTHOUGH FOOTBALL AND FALL GO HAND IN HAND, HERE IN THE SOUTH WE ARE FAR FROM AUTUMN’S CHILLY TEMPERATURES. THESE ARE A COUPLE OF OUR FAVORITE RECIPES THAT ARE PERFECT FOR TAILGATING AND WORK WELL IN THE “NOT-SO-FALL” FEELING TEMPS.

CORN AND BLACK BEAN DIP

1 15-oz. can of yellow corn, drained

1 15-oz. can of black beans, rinsed and drained

1 6-oz. container of crumbled feta cheese

½ cup sliced cherry tomatoes

3 green onions, chopped

¼ cup olive oil

¼ cup white sugar

¼ cup apple cider vinegar

salt and pepper to taste

Combine the first five ingredients in a bowl. Mix the oil, sugar, vinegar, salt and pepper well. Pour over the corn and black bean mixture. Cover and refrigerate several hours or overnight. Serve with corn chips of your choice.

BACON AND TOMATO ROUNDS

Bacon Spread: Mix together the following:

10 pieces of thick-cut bacon, cooked and chopped. (Please don’t use bacon bits!)

1 cup good quality mayonnaise. (I prefer Duke’s or Hellmann’s)

3 green onions, chopped

1 tsp. Cavender’s Greek Seasoning

Using a 2-inch round cutter, you should be able to get 3 rounds per standard slice of bread, and although we prefer white bread, wheat works just as well. Spread the bacon and mayo mixture on each bread round and top with a slice of cherry or roma tomato. Fresh chopped basil makes a tasty garnish.

Self-Care in a New Phase

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

THE JOURNEY OF SELFCARE HAS BEEN A CONTINUOUS EVOLUTION IN MY LIFE. AT THE AGE OF 21 I TOOK DELIBERATE STEPS TOWARD PRIORITIZING MY WELL-BEING. NOW, SHORTLY AFTER MY 53RD BIRTHDAY, I FIND MYSELF REFLECTING ON MY LIFE AND THE IMPORTANCE I HAVE PLACED ON SELFCARE. A PATH THAT BEGAN SIMPLY HAS EXPANDED BEYOND MY ORIGINAL FOCUS AND NOW ENCOMPASSES A SPECTRUM OF CONSIDERATIONS.

Recently, I've entered a new phase of life—a natural progression in the journey we all take. I make a conscious effort to stay updated on the latest research and advancements, aiming to safeguard my well-being. I find joy in sharing my insights with you, and view it as a privilege to do so.

The realm of menopause flowed into my days like an uninterrupted stream. August marked a year without menstrual cycles. Hot flushes and night sweats came rarely, and mood swings were not evident. During an April check-up, my doctor raised the topic of my low estrogen levels. I was not prepared to discuss estrogen replacement therapy and since my hormone deficit symptoms were basically nonexistent, I didn’t consider it an urgent matter. In fact, the very idea concerned me.

My primary worry centered around the role of estrogen in breast cancer development. My doctor informed me the risks of post-menopausal breast cancer was roughly 1 in 8 for women regardless of hormone replacement therapy use. Moreover, the origins of breast cancer are multifaceted, and while hormone replacement therapy might play a role, other factors contribute. She also explained that forgoing hormone replacement therapy carried a range of other health risks.

I told the doctor I wanted to take time to do some research. I turned to the writings of Jonathan V. Wright, MD, a pioneer in the field of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy. I felt sure his work would help me discern the best direction to follow.

Though I was familiar with Dr. Wright’s work, I had not conducted a comprehensive investigation of the subject of hormone replacement therapy. While I respect my doctor’s expertise, I acknowledge the importance of reading for myself to address my own concerns.

OVER THE YEARS, MY PASSION FOR LEARNING HAS PROPELLED ME TO EXTENSIVE READING AND RESEARCH, SEEKING WAYS TO HOLISTICALLY TEND TO MY SPIRITUAL, MENTAL AND PHYSICAL WELLBEING.

Shortly after my visit to the doctor, I noticed shifts in my energy levels and mental clarity. Within weeks, these changes intensified, disrupting my daily experiences. Suddenly, hormone replacement therapy felt imperative. For me, the most logical and comfortable choice was bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT).

I dedicated an entire month to research, using Dr. Wright’s work as a primary reference. My journey included multiple consultations to find the right professional to guide my treatment.

The following are key highlights from my research findings:

The female body generates three primary types of estrogens: estriol, estradiol and estrone. Considering the natural production of these hormones, it’s reasonable to contemplate replacing all three as needed. Estriol, often labeled the “weaker” estrogen, helps counteract estrogen-driven cancers. Estradiol and estrone are recognized as more potent estrogens (procarcinogenic estrogens). The body tends to produce estriol in greater quantities, part of a mechanism to mitigate cancer risk.

Hormone replacement therapies often involve either a bi-est or 100% estradiol protocol. Bi-est combines estriol and estradiol. I opted for an 80/20 bi-est protocol, consisting of 80% estriol and 20% estradiol. Importantly, the body can convert some estriol to estradiol through metabolism. For a deeper grasp of the estrogen quotient, I recommend exploring the research of Henry Lemon, MD.

Progesterone plays a crucial role in restraining estrogen-driven cell growth in both the uterus and breasts. It acts as a vital component in maintaining the balance and interplay between estrogen and progesterone. Dr. Wright advocates for the inclusion of progesterone as an essential element within the estrogen replacement protocol.

Conventional medicine frequently employs synthetic hormone replacement therapy that

incorporates estrogens sourced from horse urine. I harbor reservations regarding horsederived estrogen because horses produce three primary estrogens—estrone, estradiol, and equilin, which humans do not produce. I recommend reading the Women’s Health Initiative report to gain insight into the risks of this replacement approach.

The topic of hormone replacement therapy is complex. I feel I have presented key areas to begin a journey of research. I encourage you to read for yourself, and to ask your primary-care physician questions.

In conclusion, I want to emphasize that God’s design encompasses every aspect of living beings. The complexity of the human body is astounding. I’m not a medical doctor; my insights are based on personal research findings and are intended only to serve as a guide.

For questions and comments, email me at mjohns@tranforming-wellness.com. I also share insights on my Instagram account, @transformingwellness.

OWNER,

MJOHNS@TRANSFORMING-WELLNESS.COM

MICHELLE R. JOHNS, MA, TLPCA-MHSP, NCC, 500RYT/200E-RYT

TRANSFORMING WELLNESS, LLC

HOME FEATURE

Special Thanksspruce

spruceshop.com

Stefanie Rawlinson Photography

Stefanierawlinson.com

TRAVEL

Special Thanks -

Travel Leaders

901.853.6200, 901.377.6600

GETAWAY

Special Thanks -

Dahlonega Resort & Vineyard

dahlonegasresort.com

HEALTHY YOU

Special Thanks -

Michelle Johns

mjohns@transformingwellness.com

Wellness MD wellnessmd.clinic

IN THE KITCHEN

Special Thanks -

Sissy Eidt