Bham Family - February 2022

FEBRUARY 2022

FILLED WITH FAITH Author Michelle Roberts shares purposeful adventures through her children’s books. Page 22

Dancing Queen Lindsey Hull channels her passion for tap, ballet, jazz, and more into students who thrive under her love and talent. Page 16

Sean of the South Learns the Language of Love

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2 Bham Family February 2022

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EDITOR’S NOTE Unless you’re like me and use the Epiphany as an excuse to procrastinate taking down the Christmas decorations—it feels like I just finished putting them all out—your tinsel is probably tangled in a box in the basement till next year, and in its place your home feels like a fresh slate to welcome 2022.

Resolutions mark the beginning of every New Year, and maybe you’re joining the “new year, new me” crowd. We have a great idea for boosting your family’s activity level and time together: take a class at Birmingham Academy of Martial Arts. With a location in Trussville that’s expanding this year, as well as a new location in Liberty Park, there’s a convenient spot and lots of class offerings to get your year off on the right foot. Turn to page 12 to learn more.

Small adjustments can lead to big changes, and one of the best ways to get your family’s day started successfully is with a filling breakfast. But adding one more thing to the morning to-do list is overwhelming, so we’re here to help. Beginning on page 24, registered dietician Holley Grainger offers options to fuel your family without adding extra stress or chaos to the morning routine.

And if you don’t feel like whipping up meals at home this month—or you just want to grab a delicious lunch that you didn’t pack yourself—stop by one of Ashley Mac’s five locations for an array of dinner choices from their freezer case. From pastas to chicken casseroles, sides, breads, and desserts, you can feel good about what you’re putting on the table for dinner and save yourself time in the kitchen. It’s a New Year’s win-win. Serve it on leftover holiday paper plates, and your kids will gladly “do the dishes” after they’re done. Follow us for more family and parenting hacks!

Speaking of food, this month we feature an organization—FeedBHM, in partnership with Grace Klein Community—that is dedicated to eliminating waste by rescuing food from restaurants and grocery stores. The food instead goes to families in the area experiencing food insecurity. To date, they have saved over 1 million pounds of food waste from landfills! Learn more on page 28.

We also hear from Altamont School student Meghan Goyal and her work with Stop the Bleed UAB (page 30), as well as Gone for Good, a part of United Ability that provides purposeful jobs while helping you securely shred sensitive documents (page 22).

These are just a few of the great stories you’ll find in this issue, and we’d love to hear from you if you have other ideas. Happy New Year from Bham Family to you!

Stephanie Gibson Lepore, Content Director and Mom, stephanie@jbmcmedia.com

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ABOUT US

Bham Family is published monthly by JBMC Media, LLC, P.O. Box 26432, Birmingham AL 35260.

10,000 copies are printed and distributed at more than 650 locations throughout Jefferson and Shelby Counties.

O U R A DV E RT I S I N G PA RT N E R S These folks are the ones to thank for our magazine’s success — spend your money with them, and tell them you saw them in Bham Family!

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If your business would like to make copies available to customers, please email matthew@jbmcmedia.com with your business name, address, point of contact, and number of copies you would like.

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To reach the largest audience of parents in Birmingham each month, partner with us. Email matthew@jbmcmedia.com to get started with a partnership that will be a key part of your plan.

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE

12

28

Just for Dads Ward Williams gives advice. p. 8 Essay Sean of the South and the languages of love. p. 10 City Spotlight Vestavia’s Liberty Park is built for families. p. 12

24

Food Review GRK Street brings fast-casual food to town. p. 28 Kids Who Shine Homewood Patriot Band students lead the Rose Parade. p. 30 FEATURE STORIES

Medical Q&A StoneCreek Dental Care opens a new office. p. 14

Dancing Queen Lindsey Hull’s students thrive under her tutelage. p. 16

Healthy Habits Tips to start a morning routine. p. 20

Say Goodbye to Garage Clutter House Peace organizers give the gift of order to a beloved client. p. 24

Faith Author Michelle Roberts finds success with a children’s book series. p. 22

ON THE COVER Cover photo courtesy of Lindsey Hull Sisters Reese (age 9) and Kate (age 7) Hull follow in their dancer mom’s footsteps. Read more about Lindsey Hull and Dance Connections on page 16.

Bham Family February 2022 7

JUST FOR DADS

I have always loved listening to music and attending concerts. My favorite genre is country music—the older, the better—followed by classic rock, 80s pop, and then maybe contemporary Christian music. I recently watched the movie, The Jesus Music, which is a look back at the contemporary Christian music scene that began in the sixties.

As I watched, I was amazed at Ward how Christian music has put Williams a stamp on so many moments of my life. I could remember where I was and what was going on in my life when different artists or songs were highlighted.

Christian music helped to shape the way I thought about God, relationships, perseverance, purity, and even social issues we are dealing with today.

The American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry estimates that teenagers spend up to nine hours in front of a screen each day, and young children can spend up to six hours daily.

As I thought about how much time I spent as a teenager listening to music and how much it influenced so many areas of my life, I wondered how the many hours a day of screen time that our children are experiencing are impacting and influencing their lives. What is going to stick with them as they become adults? During those nine hours of screen time, how much violence, 8 Bham Family February 2022

profanity, inhumane thoughts, or negativity is being stamped onto our kids minds, souls, and spirits? It’s hard to predict what will stick in our brains as the messages heard and seen from media pass through and possibly take root. The Bible says in Luke 6:45, “A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart, and an evil person produces evil things from the treasury of an evil heart. What you say flows from what is in your heart.”

The amount of time our children spend with media has become a huge problem, and we don’t know all the effects that it will have on them and on society. I encourage you to look around when you are in public and observe how many kids—including very young children—are being entertained by their own private media device.

We need a well thought-out and deliberate plan to make sure that media, music, social media, or television is not robbing our kids of innocence or callousing their consciences longterm. We need to make sure that what our kids are reading, watching, or listening to benefits them and gives them the necessary tools for the battles they will inevitably face. Music, arts, and other entertainment have always been, and always will be, an important part of happy human relationships. I don’t advocate fear of new forms of media, but as parents we must be an educated filter of what reaches our kids.

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SEAN OF THE SOUTH

The Miraculous Love Drug

BY SEAN DIETRICH I got a letter from Lucinda, a retired nurse. She lives alone. No kids. Her husband died 12 years ago. Each week she volunteers in the hospital neonatal ICU. “My job is to cuddle babies,” she says. “It’s the highlight of my life.”

Simply put, Lucinda cradles babies in her arms and loves them. That’s her official task. In neonatal units around the world, volunteers like Lucinda do this whenever mothers cannot be present. This is a very important duty. Lucinda explains. “Without physical touch, babies die.”

This is because babies are humans. And all humans need touch, otherwise we fail to thrive. Which is why mortality rates in orphanages are 30 to 40 percent.

“The reason I volunteer,” says Lucinda, “is because babies need hugs and so do I. I live alone, I selfisolate, so these are the only touches I get.”

Which leads me to my first question. How many times have you been touched within the last 24 hours?

Take a moment. Think about it. Once? Twice.

Not at all? Well then, how long has it been? Weeks?

Months? Years? Somewhere around the installation of the last pope?

Before the pandemic you were touching others more often than you realize. Everyone was.

You’d go to lunch with friends and receive two hugs and four handshakes. Attend a barbecue at cousin Ray Ray’s house; 11 hugs, and a triple hug from Aunt Myrtis. Your niece’s wedding? Hug-a-palooza.

Sundays at church? Mass huggings.

But that’s over now. America is not getting ANY hugs during this pandemic.

I have a letter from Alison, in Boston, who writes, “It’s been 10 months since I’ve hugged my mom.”

Here’s another from Ron, in Alexandria, Virginia.

“I haven’t had a hug or a handshake in over a year…”

Lillian in Alpharetta, Georgia, says, “I’m a single girl, it’s hard to meet anyone during a pandemic…

Sometimes I just want someone to just put their arms around me.”

I’m not trying to be Donnie Despondent here, but right now things are bleak in the hug department. And it only looks like things are getting more lonely.

Recent studies are showing that roughly four out of five Americans are missing physical touch right now. And if that doesn’t bother you, here’s another little gem: Social isolation increases a human’s chances of dying early by 26 percent.

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But enough numbers. After all, I’m no scientist.

The closest I ever came to actual science was my fifth-grade science fair project in which my cousin Ed Lee and I observed the effects of bottle rockets on residential mailboxes.

So as research for this column, I called an actual doctor to get more of the science behind this human touch business. To do this, I consulted the phone directory and started dialing numbers. Here is what one nice doctor said to me: “I’m sorry I don’t have time for this.”

So I called another doctor who answered his phone, and said, “I don’t know who you are, I’ve never heard of you before, I don’t feel comfortable talking to a stranger, please make an appointment if you want my professional advice. I’m very busy.”

Then he hung up.

But the THIRD doctor was great! He actually heard me out and let me interview him. He had a voice just like Cheech Marin.

Here is what he said: “Well, it’s not complicated, really.

Touch is important to the human body, for all ages. Our skin is more than just skin, it’s our largest organ, and like any organ it communicates with your brain.

“The outermost layer of your epidermis is made up of billions of cells called keratinocytes, and these cells play a role in telling your brain that you are being touched.

“Those keratinocytes release ATP, a chemical that tells the brain, ‘Heads up! We’re being hugged!’ And your brain starts releasing feel-good chemicals.”

Doctor Cheech went on to say that the first chemical your brain releases when you receive physical touch is oxytocin. And if you don’t know what oxytocin is, you’re not alone. I didn’t either. I had to ask the doc about it.

He laughed. “Oxytocin is a hormone and a neurotransmitter. It works like a love drug. As far as neurological stuff goes, oxytocin is the Cadillac of brain hormones.”

Oxytocin also lowers blood pressure, reduces cortisol levels, it is associated with feelings of trust, empathy, security, and it counteracts the harmful effects of daytime television.

“And listen,” added the doc. “It can also help prevent you from getting sick.”

A few years ago, researchers at Carnegie Mellon University intentionally exposed people to the common cold virus to study their immunity functions.

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They gave many of these participants hugs. Others, however, received no physical touch.

In a few days, the participants who had been hugging like crazy were found to be somewhat protected from infections. The others, who hadn’t been hugging, developed full-blown colds and these participants were probably quoted as saying: “This is the worst experiment I’ve ever been involved in.”

So hugs, we’ve just determined, make you healthy.

Why do I tell you all this? There’s a very important reason. Because I worry about you. I mean it. I worry

that you’re not getting enough affection. I worry that it’s been weeks since someone has touched you. I worry that you’re craving basic human warmth.

I don’t know where you live or what you’re going through. But I know this pandemic is hard, and I know you’re suffering right now.

So, if you’ve read this far, I sincerely hope you are able to embrace someone today. Like your kids, your spouse, or a person you live with. If you live alone, then hug your dog. If you have a cat, well, good luck.

And if you don’t have anyone to hug, tell me.

Because once this pandemic is over, I’ll change that.

I’m coming for you first, Lucinda.

Bham Family February 2022 11

CITY SPOTLIGHT

LIBERTY PARK: Built for Families Unlike most hometowns, Liberty Park is not a metropolis or an city—or even an actual town.

Tucked away off I-459 in an enclave of Vestavia Hills, Liberty Park began with close to 4,000 acres and a heartfelt mission to create a responsible, well-designed, modern community that would bring neighbors together like the old days.

Designed as a master-planned community, Liberty Park is now home to more than 1,500 families who live in the architecturally diverse development that includes intimate neighborhoods, some gated. Sidewalks, lakes, playgrounds, greenspaces, and walking trails abound, and amenities include a shared pool and tennis courts. Events planned by the HOA are well-attended, from movies in the park to food 12 Bham Family February 2022

trucks, an annual Easter egg hunt, and spring markets. All of these foster a sense of community in the large but close-knit development.

It’s common to see lines of golf carts during school carpool hours, as parents pick up their kids from the award-winning Vestavia schools located in Liberty Park: Vestavia Hills Elementary Liberty Park (VHELP) and Liberty Park Middle School. In 2017, VHELP won a National Blue Ribbon, awarded by the US Department of Education in recognition of public and private elementary, middle, and high schools based on overall academic excellence or progress in closing achievement gaps among students.

Recently, Birmingham luxury home builder CONTINUED ON PAGE 13

CITY SPOTLIGHT

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Harris Doyle constructed brand-new houses on 41 lots in the development, which ranged from three to five bedrooms in 2,400–4,000 square feet. In addition, they completed the longanticipated Townhomes at The Bray, set between The Church at Liberty Park and a small shopping area anchored by Publix.

The Bray now includes the townhomes, a new Chevron gas station and market, sports bar and restaurant On Tap—complete with patio dining, a green space for lawn games, and ample TVs— Anytime Fitness, Publix, and other retailers like a nail salon, flower shop, martial arts studio, and Papa Murphy’s pizza. On the opposite side of the Encompass Health corporate headquarters, the new Cahaba Station includes Cahaba Concierge Medicine and Snapper Grabbers, which has become a popular place for residents to pick up lunch baskets and bake-at-home dinner entrees.

The Liberty Park Joint Venture is at the helm of fulfilling the community’s Vision Plan, which includes developing the remaining 700 acres of the The Bray Town Village to create a true live-work-play environment. The plan includes pedestrian walkways, a large town green, and gathering places for neighbors, enabling the campus-style community to remain one of Birmingham’s best places to live.

Last month, LPJV presented updated plans to the Vestavia Hills City Council, which covered donation of land for a future new elementary school and dedication of particular roadways— existing and future—and public spaces to Vestavia. John Gunderson, president of Daniel Communities, is developing the project on behalf of LPJV. Residential plans include approximately 270 luxe multifamily units, as well as active adult and senior living housing. In addition, more than 600 new single-family homes will be built.

Pending approval, The Bray will include over 1,500 new residential housing units and a massive 102,000-square-foot commercial project that encompasses a high-end hotel, more restaurants, specialty retail, and businesses. LPJV would be responsible for new infrastructure like sidewalks and sewer, as well as road extensions. The entire plan, roughly totaled at $860 million, will lead to anticipated $300 million-plus in city and county revenues during the next two and a half decades; $236 million will remain in the city and approximately $121 million will go directly to support Vestavia Hills City Schools.

The city must approve the development agreement for the plan to move forward, but one thing is clear: Liberty Park, one of the last undeveloped areas of the city, still offers plenty of room for new residents to call it home.

Bham Family February 2022 13

MEDICAL SPOTLIGHT

STONECREEK DENTAL CARE StoneCreek Dental Care was founded in 2012 in Birmingham by two local dentists and hometown friends, Dr. Brian Barnes and Dr. Ron Beasley.

Drs. Barnes and Beasley are originally from Gardendale. Both attended the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Dentistry and have been practicing for more than 20 years. They started StoneCreek with two objectives: First, provide a level of unrivaled, comprehensive, and compassionate dental care to patients. Second, create an environment where dentists can focus solely on their practices without the added stress of managing a business.

Q: Which dentists are at the new Vestavia location?

A: Dr. Barnes, Dr. Beasley, and Dr. Joshua Headley are in our brand-new Vestavia Hills office. Dr. Headley grew up in Gardendale and attended the University of Montevallo on a baseball scholarship, graduating with honors with a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry. Dr. Headley then acquired his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of Alabama School of Dentistry. After dental school, Dr. Headley 14 Bham Family February 2022

pursued an advanced surgical training residency through NYU Lutheran, where he learned the most advanced surgical techniques and acquired tremendous experience in bone grafting, implant placement, complex implant restorations, and IV sedation. Dr. Headley loves his patients and is passionate about providing the best care possible with the most up-to-date technology and procedures. He also loves spending time with his wife, Rachel, and their daughters, Stella and Avery. They enjoy being outdoors, cooking, traveling, and watching football.

Q: How was the newest location chosen?

A: We love the Vestavia Hills area and our patients and the residents there. Dr Beasley’s private practice was just down the road and Dr. Barnes’ was by Brookwood Hospital, so this was a good spot.

Q: Where else in the Birmingham area are you located?

A: Alabaster, Cahaba Heights, Helena, Hoover, Homewood, Inverness, and Mountain Brook Q: What types of dental work does the Vestavia StoneCreek location provide?

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A: General, cosmetic, surgery and restoration, gum disease, pediatric dentistry, and emergency Q: When should families first bring a child in for a cleaning? Do you see parents and children together?

A: The ideal time is when their teeth start to come in. We can see families together if preferred.

Q: What are some ways parents can prepare kids for a trip to the dentist?

A: Set an example with your dental care routine and stay on top of your own dental appointments. Explain the appointment to your child beforehand, and point out the importance of good dental care. Be positive!

Q: What sets StoneCreek apart?

A: StoneCreek Dental Care is a dentist-owned and operated leading dental organization.

We are the Southeast’s premier provider of comprehensive dental care, with 21 locations

Meet the team keeping Birmingham looking good!

in Birmingham, Chattanooga, Huntsville, and Montgomery. Not only does StoneCreek employ some of the finest dentists and hygienists in the areas we serve, but we also give them the space to operate freely and without added distractions or obligations. Thanks to our innovative business model, StoneCreek provides a level of care you won’t find anywhere else. From basic cleanings to restorative dentistry and cosmetics to endodontics, we cover a wide and comprehensive range of dental services for patients of all ages.

Our mission is to provide quality dental care in an environment that exemplifies the highest ethical, personal, compassionate, and professional standards. We are dedicated to fostering a friendly, positive, and supportive environment for our patients and team members. As a company, we accept the responsibility of nurturing the relationships with our team members to provide the best patient experience possible.

StoneCreek Dental Care is located at 1990 Southwood Road in Vestavia. For more information, visit stonecreekdentalcare.com.

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ACTIVE LIVING

Queen

Dance

OF

Lindsey Hull took her commitment to dance to the teaching level—and she’s never looked back.

BY STEPHANIE GIBSON LEPORE Aristotle once said, “Those who know, do.

Those that understand, teach.” But dancer— and dance teacher—Lindsey Hull, boasts a wide range in her repertoire, from performing herself to coaching and molding young dancers ages 3 and up.

Lindsey started dancing at age 2, “and dance has played a major role in my life ever since!” she says. She studied it all—jazz, ballet, tap, hip-hop, lyrical, and high kick—and began competitive dance in third grade through her senior year in high school. She led the dance team as captain her senior year, too, performing a total of three years with her high school. “I CONTINUED ON PAGE 17

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was a member of my high school dance team for 3 years and captain my senior year.”

Her teaching career actually began in middle school, when Lindsey served as teaching assistant at her dance studio. Then, after high school graduation, she was hired as a Universal Dance Association instructor, where she traversed the country to run camps for seven summers between studies at Auburn University. “I was given the opportunity to teach classes of various styles and all levels of dance on college campuses across the country,” says Lindsey. “It was through this unique opportunity that I discovered my passion was teaching, because I was able to share my love of dance with others.”

Post-college, armed with her degree in Human Development and Family Studies, Lindsey coached a handful of dance teams, including the UAB Golden Girls, Spain Park’s JV team, and the Mountain Brook High School Dorians, where she was head coach. “Under the leadership of my team, the Dorians consistently became a nationally ranked dance team,” notes Lindsey. in 2006, she began offering technique workshops for dancers auditioning for middle school, high school, and college dance teams.

“I would hire industry professionals and bring them together to teach young dancers the skills

they needed to prepare for upcoming tryouts,” she explains. “My staff was often comprised of college dance team members and coaches, professional dancers, and even professional cheerleaders.” Lindsey started her company— Dance Connections—as a way of bringing all types of dancers together.

Her boundless energy and enthusiasm for not only dance, but also teaching hasn’t slowed down a bit since those years after college. Currently, Lindsey choreographs for and coaches two Vestavia dance teams: The Treasures of Pizitz Middle School and the Lady Liberties of Liberty Park Middle School. She is founder and coach of the Magic City Sparks, a performance dance team for special needs students. She puts her technical skills to good use at the UDA National Dance Team Championship in Orlando, where she judges each year. “I am able to see the best dance teams in the country come together to compete for national titles,” she says.

A little over 10 years ago, Lindsey added elementary summer dance camps to her repertoire.

She’s also hosted special themed morning camps around holidays like Christmas and Valentine’s Day. After also teaching preschool for a handful of years, “I fell in love with that age, so I began teaching preschool dance classes in 2013 at Liberty Pals Enrichment Center,” she says. “I’ve been there CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

Bham Family February 2022 17

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ever since.” She now helms four preschool dance classes in Liberty Park, as well as an elementary dance class at Vestavia Hills Elementary Liberty Park. “My preschool classes learn ballet, tap, and jazz. Elementary learns those same styles plus hiphop, and my middle school students learn jazz, hip-hop, pom, and high kick.” In other words, she does it all.

“My favorite thing about working with young dancers is seeing the precious smiles on their faces,” Lindsey says. “These smiles often come from a sense of pride when they have accomplished something new. Other times, their smiles are simply there because they are having fun. My goal is to always make learning and dance classes fun.”

This year, she plans to continue growing and learning in order to give the best to her students.

“I am constantly looking for fun and fresh ideas, innovative teaching methods, and ways to share important dance skills and techniques with my students,” she explains. “I want my dancers to learn but I also want my classes to be fun in hopes that my students share my love and passion for dance.” One benefit of sowing seeds into others is that she sees the evolution of her young dancers into beautiful performers.

“I love seeing my students grow as dancers,” she says. “I’ve had some students since they were two years old, and it’s amazing to them with so much self confidence that has come from dance.

Other students have gone on to join college dance teams and a few have become dance teachers and coaches, too! I love to keep up with them. Sometimes my former students will return to choreograph for my teams and help with special workshops, classes, and camps.”

One important part of Lindsey’s classes that she believes helps young dancers to gain confidence is speaking into a microphone. Starting in preschool classes, Lindsey helps each dancer with mic time, whether they are just stating their names, ages, and favorite dance position—plie, tondu, relevate—or wishing the audience a Merry Christmas during a holiday performance.

The privilege is not lost on her.

“I am truly honored and humbled that parents allow me to teach their children,” she says. “As a mother, I recognize that children are parents’ most precious gifts, and I am grateful they choose to share them with me. I feel incredibly blessed to get to do something that I love!”

18 Bham Family February 2022

A FAMILY AFFAIR Lindsey’s daughters—Reese (age 9) and Kate (age 7)—both started dance at age 2.

At ages 4 and 6, Lindsey took them to see some of her middle school students in the Magic City Nutcracker.

“I knew that this beautiful community production was something special, and I wanted them to be a part of it the following year,” Lindsey explains. The girls began as mice in 2019 and were cast as mini Chinese tea leaves the next year.

“After our second year, I learned that the production needed adults for the party scene, so I decided that I wanted to dance with them. I asked my husband [Michael, her high school sweetheart to whom she’s been married 15 years] to join me as a “party dad” and he politely declined—until my youngest daughter asked him and he couldn’t refuse,” she says. The entire Hull family performed in the party scene together this past year.

“I can honestly say it was one of the highlights of our year. We made priceless memories and plan to do it again next year.

Even my husband will tell you he had fun!”

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Bham Family February 2022 19

FOOD & HEALTH

Get Moving in The Mornings

Whether you’re a working parent or you stay at home with the kiddos, if you struggle to be an early riser, check out these tips to help you start the day off right.

BY HOLLEY GRAINGER, MS, RD The world seems to be divided into two types of people: those who are morning people, and those who are not.

Doesn’t it seem like some folks are just born with the innate ability to wake up in the morning well-rested, refreshed, and ready to conquer the world, while others of us can’t even make it to work or the carpool line on time without a giant coffee stain down the fronts of our shirts?

For those of you who fall into the second half of that statement, fear not! While stress-free mornings may be second-nature for some, there are several habits, techniques, and hacks that the rest of us can adopt to—little by little—become more of a morning person.

We all know the importance of getting a a good night of sleep, but below are six additional tips to help get your moving in the mornings.

Adopt an a.m. routine. Even if it’s something as simple as having coffee in the same chair every morning, having a consistent regimen that you follow every day can help get your mind on the right track for the day. Other ideas: a coldwater face splash first thing when you get out of bed, keeping a notepad and pen (or the Notes app on your phone) handy for making a morning to-do list, or a quick walk or even a few minutes of stretching to clear your head.

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MAKE-AHEAD BREAKFAST Mornings in our household are nothing short of hectic. We are a bunch of sleepyheads, so trying to get my girls dressed and out PHOTOS COURTESY OF HOLLEY GRAINGER the door on time Apple-Cinnamon Overnight Oats is nothing short of can be prepped ahead for a quick chaotic. Thankfully, and easy morning meal. make-ahead recipes for breakfast give us a few extra minutes to sit down together for a wholesome meal. Enter overnight oats: the best make-ahead breakfast ever. Overnight oats can be customized with any of your favorite flavors, but I’m a big fan of using apples, cinnamon, peanut butter, cocoa powder, and berries.

APPLE-CINNAMON OVERNIGHT OATS This recipe combines heart-healthy oats, ground flaxseed, and walnuts for a delicious make-ahead breakfast.

1 cup old-fashioned oats 1 tsp. to 1 Tbsp. ground flaxseed 1 tsp. cinnamon 1 cup 1% milk 1 tsp. vanilla extract 2 Tbsp. chopped walnuts (divided) 1/2 cup chopped apples (divided) Vanilla Greek yogurt or peanut butter, optional Combine first 5 ingredients in a bowl or mason jar. Stir until combined. Add half of the walnuts and apples; stir. Refrigerate overnight for 6 to 8 hours.

When ready to eat, stir in remaining walnuts and apples, and top with vanilla Greek yogurt or peanut butter, if desired.

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Drink water first to rehydrate. After a good night of sleep, our bodies can be in a state of mild dehydration. Before reaching for your coffee mug, try drinking a glass or two of water to rehydrate.

Plain is great, or go for hot lemon water. Tip: Fill up your water bottle the night before, and store it in the fridge so you already have cold H2O to start your morning.

Plan ahead. Making breakfast the night before, setting the coffee pot to automatically start, or having all of your breakfast bowls and utensils laid out are all ways to save precious minutes before you head out the door for the day. For a filling make-ahead option, try Apple-Cinnamon Overnight Oats (see page 20).

Add movement first thing. Going for a short walk, doing a quick stretch or yoga series, or completing a couple minutes of bodyweight exercises like lunges or pushups are sure ways to get your blood flowing, heart pumping, and mind acclimated to get the day started off on the right foot. With the mild Alabama weather we enjoy

most of the year, getting some fresh air by walking your neighborhood is a great choice, too.

Try positive affirmations. Mindset is everything!

It might sound cheesy, but giving yourself a pep talk or reciting words of affirmation are both ways to start the day off on a positive note. Take a tip from dietician Shannon Aleise Garcia, and type some positive affirmations into your cell phone alarm. Even something as simple as waking up to a motivating phrase, Bible verse, or quote such as “You got this” can set you up for success. Dayle Hayes, the RD behind schoolmealsthatrock.org, recommends setting one of your favorite songs as the ringtone for your alarm to start your day off on the right note.

Eat breakfast. Breakfast doesn’t have to be an elaborate sit-down meal, but it should include a good source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats.

Having each of these components in your morning meal will help you fuel up for a productive day.

No time for a full meal? No problem. Even something as simple as a glass of milk, handful of nuts, and a piece of fruit will provide you with the protein, healthy fats, and fiber you need for a filling morning meal.

Bham Family February 2022 21

FAITH

Caring for Kids’ Character

Roberts answered the call on her life with a little help from her granny.

PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF MICHELLE SHIELDS ROBERTS

BY STEPHANIE GIBSON LEPORE For years—before she ever published a single word—author Michelle Shields Roberts’s grandmother was praying for her. In fact, Michelle barely had any faith at all back then. Growing up with a single mom, Michelle struggled without her dad around. “In my early years, the last time I remember seeing my dad was when I was 10 years old,” she says. “Later, after I was married, I saw him for the first time in 17 years when my own son was three months old.” During those early years, Michelle found solace by writing poetry and journaling through various situations life threw her way. Still, her grandmother—“Granny,” to whom she was very close—continued to press into prayer for Michelle.

“She asked me to pick her up from church one Wednesday evening, after services were over,” Michelle remembers. “The preacher’s wife asked if I was a believer. Of course I said I was,” she says, even though she really wasn’t sure.

Joining forces with her Granny, the youth pastor at that church and his wife—Keith and 22 Bham Family February 2022

Teresa—began praying for Michelle, too. It wasn’t long before Michelle was attending weekly services, which then led to her involvement with various ministries at the church. Keith and Teresa encouraged Michelle to attend college, and she was accepted at Tennessee Temple University in Chattanooga, where she enrolled in fall 1981.

“I always thought I was a believer because of a Bible my aunt gave me that said I had accepted Jesus as my Savior in 1975. But during my first semester in college, I thought back on this supposed conversion experience, and I realized I had never really accepted Him,” she says.

Michelle says that was the start of the Lord really beginning to work in her heart and life.

She went forward during a Sunday evening service on February 7, 1982, in an auditorium that could seat 6,000 people. “I was on a row all the way in the back of the church,” she says of the long walk down. “But I realized, for the first time, that I was going to spend eternity without God if I didn’t accept Jesus as my personal Savior.

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Michelle with WDJC radio’s Roxanne and Ace.

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So, I took that one step, and it changed my life forever.”

During her time at college, she met Kevin, whom she married a short time later. They have been married more than 38 years and have one son, Jeremy, and “precious,” Michelle is sure to say, granddaughters Alleigh Rose and Emmalyn.

After finding faith for real this time, Michelle spent years traveling extensively as a singer, lending her voice to churches and at other special events. She sang in backup choirs for groups such as Plus One, Steve Green, and Bryan Duncan.

She was a member of the National Choir in Washington, DC. She toured as a part of the group In One Accord. And, along with her musical talent, she’s tapped into other areas of creativity, directing and producing youth-based dramas, acting, speaking, and part-time radio broadcasting. Now, she’s added writer and author to her list of accomplishments “I spent 11 years in elementary education, plus I have a passion for writing,” says Michelle.

“I learned so much from friends with whom I had the privilege of working back then.” From her early journals of prose and poetry and now into the next phase of her life, Michelle has written songs, more poetry, short stories, and skits. Her first book, published in 2004, is Poetry Keepsakes. A decade later, she wrote Is He Still My Prince?

And then, about three years ago, “I sensed the Lord leading me to write a book series where the stories would model building character, as well as show children they can always be who they are and encourage them to follow their dreams.”

Michelle followed that call and, in 2020, published the first book in her children’s series, Mamaroonie and Friends.

The name just popped out of Michelle’s mouth one day, as she was walking a few special needs

students back to class. “One of my friends was taking her time walking down the hall,” says Michelle. “I turned around to check on her and hurry her up a little. At the same time, I had been praying about a name for the children’s book series. Well, as soon as I turned around, I said in a silly voice, “Okay, Mamaroonie, let’s pick up the pace so we can get back to class. That name just came out! She smiled and said, “I’m not Mamaroonie!” But I knew immediately that I had the series name. And I added “and friends” to it.”

A Big Surprise For Curls—The Journey For A Better You! was followed in 2021 by Mash’s Royal Castle Caper. A third is being written. “The Lord has given me numerous stories with different themes for the entire series,” says Michelle. “At this point, I’m not sure exactly how many books will end up being in the series.”

Michelle has shared her book story with family and friends, on social media, radio shows, and even TV. She appeared on Talk of Alabama when the second book released. She’s also traveled around the region for speaking engagements and book signings. But to her, what’s most important is how her words have touched others. “To hear reviews of how my books have been a great help and inspiration to adults and children alike—I praise the Lord for that!”

“My heart’s desire is that, through my writing, others will get that spark to write as well,” she says. “I received inspiration from a few college professors who showed me that writing and reading books and stories can take you to places you always dreamed of.”

To order Michelle’s books, you can visit her website, michelleshieldsroberts.com, or Amazon.

All proceeds from the sale of A Big Surprise For Curls—The Journey For A Better You! are donated to help combat human trafficking, a ministry for which Michelle has advocated for more than eight years.

Bham Family February 2022 23

ORGANIZATION

No

A team of organizers cleans and declutters until their client boasts a peaceful parking place

GRUNGY GARAGE

BY TARA BREMER

Here

BY TARA BREMER

24 Bham Family February 2022

Recently, House Peace did a service project for a well deserving Birmingham resident, and the local community came together to donate funds and labor for the project.

One of our clients from the past, Miss S, is very special to our team.

The first time we worked for her, she had just lost her husband and received CONTINUED ON PAGE 25

BEFORE

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a tough diagnosis from the doctor. Elderly and in need of some order in her home, Lead Organizer Ashley Bryant and our team got to work preparing a guest space in her home that would become her sister’s room.

Fast-forward a year or so, and our team decided Miss S could use a complete garage overhaul, as well as a wholehome deep clean.

In order to pull off this big day, we partnered with Wonder Cleaning Co. for the inside of Miss S’s home, several House Peace organizers, and other community volunteers who wanted to be a part of this amazing day. We were able CONTINUED ON PAGE 26

Vineyard Family Services Feeding Kids in Need, Promoting Responsible Fatherhood, and Helping Families in Crisis Donations help us: Feed children in need and provide other essential items Deliver family emergency food boxes Aid fathers and mothers with parenting programs Support incarcerated families and children Provide at-risk teens important life skills

www.vfsdads.com

Bham Family February 2022 25

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Face painting | Temporary tattoos | Henna (205) 907-0747 paintedpersonalities.com

SPRING

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Face painting and more for your next party!

M

KIDS

MME SU

KINGD O

to collect money from our social media community to pay for new shelving in the garage and new storage bins. It was incredible—and I was overwhelmed with gratitude.

A team of 13 people was needed to pull it off, and someone else volunteered to bring in a dumpster. All in all, a clean, decluttered, organized, and peaceful garage was accomplished by our team and volunteer community. We left the home with an overjoyed client and full hearts ourselves.

If you need help, House Peace would love to come organize for you! Visit housepeace.net for more information.

CONSIGNMENT SALE Thursday, March 10 to Saturday, March 12 Visit website for hours of operation

Featuring gently-used children’s clothing size newborn to “big kid” 18, children’s shoes up to “big kid” 9, baby equipment, bikes, sports equipment, toys, games, puzzles, and more!

For Birmingham.

For families.

26 Bham Family February 2022

KingdomKidsConsignment.com 805 Crest Drive, Gardendale

ALL PROFITS SUPPORT MISSIONS

10699 Old Hwy 280, Bldg 2 Chelsea, AL 35043 (205) 980-4530 eyesonchelsea.com

$250 OFF Bham Family February 2022 27

FOOD REVIEW

PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF GRK STREET

GRK Street

This new fast-casual restaurant brings authentic flavor to town

BY STEPHANIE GIBSON LEPORE Dubbed the “Taziki’s Test Kitchen,” GRK Street is a concept from Taziki’s Mediterranean Café founder Keith Richards that opened last summer on Valleydale Road in the Inverness area. Years ago, after a trip to Greece with his wife, Amy, Keith returned to Birmingham with a dream to infuse Birmingham with the flavors they experienced in the Mediterranean. Now, after Covid curbside Keith’s newest endeavor is GRK Street, inspired by the fast-paced street food of downtown Athens. Flavorful Greek cuisine delivers a twist on the popular dishes of the country’s vibrant street scene: sizzling grills, pulsing music, happy chatter, satisfied stomachs.

Though the concept is centered around family meal takeout, the restaurant does offer seating beneath café string lights, surrounded by the cool blues of the Mediterranean and colorful photos of Keith, Amy, and their family on trips to their 28 Bham Family February 2022

GRK STREET 5291 Valleydale Road (205) 383-3193 Monday–Saturday, 11 a.m –9 p.m.

favorite country.

The most important part of the restaurant, however, is the consistently delicious food.

Classic appetizers like hummus, spicy feta dip, and Grecian veggie falafel are popular options.

Follow up with a flavorful entrée: gyros—chicken, lamb, beef, veggie—sandwiches and roll-ups featuring seasoned pork, lamb, and even plantbased burger, or a hearty Village Bowl. Choose a base—Greek or beet salad—add a protein, and enjoy with Mediterranean rice or the signature seasoned fries. Actually, be sure to grab a side of the GRK fries no matter what you order, and CONTINUED ON PAGE 29

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throw in a piece of street corn, too: corn on the cob with yogurt-lime sauce, GRK herbs, and crumbled feta. Kids will be happy with a pita grilled cheese or chicken roll-ups served with fries or apples.

Dessert at GRK Street is a treat and a perfect sample of authentic sweets from Greece. Baklava, cinnamon apple, and baklava cheesecake are mouthwatering ends to a great meal from this inventive spot, but our personal favorite is Sofia’s GRK Loukoumades, donut-like fried dough sprinkled with powdered sugar and cinnamon and finished with a drizzle of local honey.

The smaller location exchanges interior space for easier curbside parking and a pickup/drive-thru window, and all menu items are made to-go. Order takeout and curbside online or through the GRK Street app. Receive $5 off orders of $15 or more when ordering online or through the app with code GRK5. For more information, visit greekstreet.com.

Bham Family February 2022 29

KIDS WHO SHINE

HOMEWOOD PATRIOT BAND

BY STEPHANIE GIBSON LEPORE New Year’s Day 2022 marked the fifth time the Homewood Patriot Band performed in the Rose Parade, but there was something extra-special about this one: Homewood was the lead band in the 133rd Tournament of Roses Parade.

“I don’t think it really sunk in that we were the lead band until we were actually there,” says Chris Cooper, Director of Bands, who has been with the program more than 20 years and is in his third year as director. “The Marine Band usually marches first, but the president of the parade is a retired school administrator in Pasadena, and he wanted it to be all about education. So, we got to be the lead and that was a pretty awesome thing for us.”

Awesome, indeed, especially given the additional year tacked on to the band’s practice time. The Patriot Band was originally invited to march in the 2021 parade, but it was canceled due to Covid, giving them another 12 months to practice—two and a half years total. However, that came with the sad realization that the 2021 seniors wouldn’t be there to perform this year.

“We honored the 2021 seniors on our big banner,” says Chris. “This year’s seniors wrote their names on the back.”

To ensure that all students were able to make the trip to California, the band raised money with online donations through Snap Raise. In 28 days, they took in more than $100,000, breaking all Snap Raise records in the country. They also hosted a 5K and a gala and auction when Rose Parade president Bob Miller came to visit. “It was really incredible to be able to help every kid in the band monetarily,” says Chris. “And even better, when I announced that I was sending a check to the tour company for each student, probably 50 to 100 parents stepped in and said to take their child’s portion and give it to another child who was in need. That just shows you what a great community Homewood is. We took two charter planes of kids to LA, and it was fantastic.”

Of course, before the fun—and even the fundraising—came the practice. Twice a week during October, November, and December, after football season ended. Having been on staff with the band for more than 20 years, and in his third 30 Bham Family February 2022

year as director, Chris understood the importance of not only hitting the right notes, but also conditioning—the parade route is six miles long—and perfecting “the turn.”

Senior Lily Janas, president of the band and also captain of the volleyball team, remembers the practice well, writing: “Sometimes you practice the same turn a million times. Sometimes your lungs burn and your legs ache. But at the end of the day, there will be…a perfect turn, a street full of fans, a moment of lift and the mountains in the distance as a sign of victory, and that is what makes it all worth it. We rise before the sun, but we rise together as one, as the Homewood Patriot Marching Band.”

Did you catch that? Lily is both in the band and a member of the volleyball team. “We’re a little bit different in that we allow every student to be in the band, regardless of other commitments,” says Chris. “Every single sport is represented in the band—varsity football, cheerleading, volleyball, every sport. Lily represents the true spirit of our school system’s philosophy: a well-rounded student who excels in athletics, fine arts, and academics and is able to do all of those and not choose. That really makes us stand out from other schools in the area.”

Russell Dearing, a junior alto saxophone player, remembers learning they were first going to march when he was still in eighth grade. All the hard work finally paid off: “I probably heard one more mile 20 times,” he says. “But once we got to the big statement turn toward the end, that was the climax. The image of the mountains, snowcapped tips glimmering in the sunlight—it was the best reward I could have received. Later that night, we had a celebration for all the hard work we had put in. I’m incredibly thankful for Mr. Cooper and all the work he had us put in.”

Junior Watson Lee, one of five drum majors, agrees. “Our assistant director, Mr. Pence, sums up the mission of the band best: We’re in the business of making memories, and this trip was full of them. I’d say my favorite was doing our warm-up routine in a huge parking garage. I lost about a decade of hearing from how loud it was, but it was really special getting to hear absolutely every note played amplified 20 times.”

Olivia Olivia Tetralogy of Fallot Patient Tetralogy of Fallot Patient

The The path path to to

MENDING MENDING HER HER

HEART was actually through her leg. was actually through her leg.

Olivia was born with a congenital heart defect requiring open Olivia was born with a congenital heart defect requiring open heart surgery at 3 months old. She also required a second heart surgery at 3 months old. She also required a second surgery as a teen to replace her pulmonary valve – but this time surgery as a teen to replace her pulmonary valve – but this time they went through a vein in her leg to insert the Harmony they went through a vein in her leg to insert the Harmony Transcatheter Pulmonary Valve in her heart. This less-invasive Transcatheter Pulmonary Valve in her heart. This less-invasive path to replacement shortened her recovery time, and she went path to replacement shortened her recovery time, and she went home the next day. Olivia was the first pediatric patient in the home the next day. Olivia was the first pediatric patient in the southeast to receive the Harmony valve, and it was here at southeast to receive the Harmony valve, and it was here at Children’s of Alabama.

Children’s of Alabama.

To learn more visit To learn more visit ChildrensAL.org/heart ChildrensAL.org/heart 31 Bham Family February 2022

TEEN TALK LINE (205) 605-1830

PARENT TALK LINE compact2020.com (205) 605-1827

TEENS — Have questions? Concerned about things? Just need someone to listen? Talking helps. Whether you are having a great day or a tough day, give us a call. We are here to listen.

PARENTS — Think your teen might be involved with substance abuse? Have questions? Concerned about your teen? Wondering how to handle your teen’s choices? Just need someone to listen to you? Talking helps.

32 Bham Family February 2022