NOVEMBER 2021
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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
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2 Bham Family November 2021
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589A Shades Crest Rd • Hoover • (205) 822-7277 • kaseydavisdentistry.com Bham Family November 2021 3
EDITOR’S NOTE Outside my home office window, the trees are swaying back and forth as the first of the fall leaves start to turn vibrant red and yellow. It’s passably cool outside, enough so that my thoughts are drifting from writing to Thanksgiving, which will be here in a few weeks. Changing seasons and the upcoming holidays always cause me to reflect, and today I am thinking about things for which I’m grateful and how they tie into this issue. More than ever before, I am thankful for good health, and I hope you are, too. We’re heading toward prime time for New Year’s Resolutions, and like the rest of America, I plan to incorporate a better physical fitness routine into my schedule. Like all of you, I am a parent, and the days seem to get away quickly. That’s one reason I was so excited to learn about HomeFit, a company that specializes in training busy people like you and me. Check them out on page 14, and let’s knock out our goals together. I’m also thankful to live in a town with a booming culinary scene—thus the need for exercise!—and plenty of delicious options for Thanksgiving desserts. Fair warning: The list on page 18 will make you hungry, but it’s a great place to learn about the best sweet treats in Birmingham to grace your table this month. Personally, I’ll be inhaling coconut cake from Bottega. We’re also fortunate to be home to so many excellent doctors and caregivers, and I’m excited to share a new medical practice with you. Cahaba Concierge Medicine bills itself as a personalized alternative to traditional doctors’ offices. Maybe it’s a good fit for you and your family; check out the story on page 20. I’m thankful for people like Springville author Clayton Martin, who is spreading an important message of love and acceptance with his just-released book, “I Love You More Than Me.” For the sweet story behind his publication, turn to page 26. In addition to thankfulness, of course my thoughts turn to charity this month and I start to think about how my family can show our gratitude by helping others. One great way to Involve your kids this holiday season Is by participating In an event like Operation Christmas Child together. You can read more in Kids Who Shine on page 30. During all of my reflecting and thankfulness, I am perhaps most grateful for the ability to lose myself in good memories that center around family and friends. In Just for Dads on page 8, columnist Ward Williams sums it up much better than I ever could. Take his advice to heart, dear readers. Last but not least, I hope this list has caused you to stop and reflect on the things for which you are grateful, too—because we are certainly thankful for you. Happy November and Happy Thanksgiving!
Stephanie Gibson Lepore, Content Director and Mom, stephanie@jbmcmedia.com 4 Bham Family November 2021
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Bham Family November 2021 5
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Aldridge Gardens
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Applause Dancewear
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Backyard Adventures
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Brookwood Baptist Health
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Pediatric Smiles Sike’s Children’s Shoes / Jack n Jill
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Single Barrel Barber Shop
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The Altamont School
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The Dance Company
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Creative Montessori School
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RECYCLE RECYCLE ME! ME!
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Just for Dads Ward Williams says make the memories. p. 8
Kids Who Shine
Active Living HomeFit helps busy families stay in shape. p. 14
bless others. p. 30
Essay Santa prep with Sean of the South. p. 16
Operation Christmas Child gives kids a chance to
FEATURE STORIES
Special Private School Guide
Food Review Where to order your Thanksgiving desserts. p. 18
Details on Birmingham’s top private education
Medical Spotlight Cahaba Concierge Medicine changes family care. p. 20
Nannies in Your Neighborhood
Food Make a creative appetizer with the kids. p. 22 Arts & Entertainment The immersive exhibit—Beyond Van Gogh— comes to town. p. 28
options. p. 10
Mountain Brook native Cella Jones sets up a childcare network. p. 24 A Lesson In Love Local author Clayton Martin publishes a children’s book. p. 26
ON THE COVER Backyard Solutions is Birmingham’s locally owned source for playsets, trampolines, accessories, and more. Located at 3165 Cahaba Valley Road in Indian Springs, they offer sales and installation along with great customer service. Visit them in person, online at backyardalabama.com, or call them at (205) 408-4FUN. Bham Family November 2021 7
JUST FOR DADS Memories can happen at any moment. Memories can be wonderful, terrible, tedious, adventurous, and so much more. The events that often lead to the best memories are the ones that you may not have expected to have such a big impact. My son and I made a memory together in September that we will never forget. It all started when my Ward nephew’s father, who lives Williams in central Pennsylvania and is a huge Penn State football fan, asked if I could take his son and mine up to Pennsylvania to watch this year’s AuburnPenn State game. He has been excited about Auburn visiting Happy Valley since the game was announced in 2016. My wife agreed to the trip if my son, who is a freshman at Auburn, would be home for his test Monday morning at 8 a.m. My nephew’s father is a pilot, and we were flying standby, so guaranteeing anything travel-wise can be a scary proposition. After looking at the flights, I was confident that we could make it there and back in time. My nephew and I left Birmingham around lunchtime—without football or airline tickets—heading to the Atlanta airport via Auburn to pick up my son. Here is the abbreviated version of our adventures: •
Crazy Atlanta airport with flight delays
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Five frustrating days spent looking for four tickets together
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Flight to Happy Valley in a four-seater plane
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$75 Uber ride for a 5-mile ride to campus
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Tailgate at stranger’s RV, where we ate their food and exhausted kids slept for two hours in RV
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Attended a very exciting whiteout game with 110,000 people in attendance in one of the best environments to watch a sporting event
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Game ended with no Uber in sight; end up walking more than 5 miles and reach
8 Bham Family November 2021
the airport at 2 a.m.—which is when the airport closes •
Take off without the help of air traffic control and arrive back to the house at 3:30 a.m.
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Direct flight home no longer available; assured we can get to Atlanta via Myrtle Beach flight
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After landing in Myrtle Beach, had to exit plane due to weight distribution concerns; my son makes it back on the plane
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My nephew and I are stranded in Myrtle Beach with zero chance of getting home for at least 24 hours; rent a car one-way and head out for the Atlanta airport from Myrtle Beach at 7:30 p.m.
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On I-20, we see a truck explode and break out into a full inferno
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Arrive at Georgia state line around 12:15 a.m., and learn that you can’t book hotels after midnight for the current night
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Arrive at Atlanta airport hotel around 1:45 a.m.; pay twice what we should for a rough hotel room with no working AC
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Our agent at the airport rental car counter did not know how to check in a one-way rental, so that turned into an ordeal. Then a man screamed at our bus driver because he didn’t speak English and couldn’t understand what he was saying
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My nephew missed school and I missed work that Monday, but we finally made it home.
As brutal as our travel experiences were that weekend, we made memories that will last a lifetime. Looking back on the trip, here is what I learned. First, no matter how busy life seems, take time to stop and spend time with people you care about. You may not have everything planned out, but time together is what matters. Second, roll with the punches, because that is part of the adventure. Third, find a way to make memories with the ones you love.
Your health can’t wait. Scheduling your procedure NOW could save you money. If your deductible has been met, it’s time to get the healthcare you need before your deductible resets in January. We have surgeons in convenient locations to help you resolve a variety of health issues, often using minimally invasive techniques, such as laparoscopic and robotic surgery. Why NOW? 1 You could save thousands of dollars. If you’re close to or have met your annual deductible, your out-of-pocket costs could be greatly reduced. 2 Life is better without pain. After surgery, many people say, “Why did I wait so long?” 3 We’re ready for you. Many of our board-certified physicians have near immediate appointment availability.
To schedule an appointment or find a doctor, call 205-877-2814 or visit BBHCareNetwork.com C ARDIOLO GY | ORTHOPEDICS | GENER AL SURGERY
Bham Family November 2021 9
SPECIAL SECTION
Private School Guide
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SPECIAL | PRIVATE SCHOOL GUIDE
CREATIVE MONTESSORI SCHOOL Creative Montessori School (CMS) recently plus practical knowledge such as conflict resolution, celebrated 50 years of excellence in Montessori social responsibility, and environmental stewardship. education. Founded in 1968 by Barbara R. Spitzer, It is how they learn and how they feel about learning CMS is Birmingham’s first Montessori school; the that is quite different and truly valuable. first local private school to be racially integrated Montessori classrooms foster intellectual from inception; and the first to offer science, world curiosity by facilitating individualized, independent, geography, and foreign language to preschoolers. purposeful work within a peaceful setting. The Convenient to downtown Birmingham and result is children who fall in love with learning. Over The Mountain suburbs, Students are allowed to learn at CMS offers an unparalleled private their own pace under the caring and school education in a warm and thoughtful guidance of a profes loving Montessori atmosphere sionally trained Montessori teacher. with a focus on the individual CMS enrolls 250 students from child. Our teachers value each 25 zip codes, located on a 2.5-acre child’s unique potential and nur campus in the heart of Homewood. ture students’ inherent Affordable tuition makes abilities to meet challenges exceptional education acces with divergent thinking Creative Montessori School sible to families with diverse skills, self-confidence, 2800 Montessori Way socioeconomic backgrounds. adaptability, and resilience. Homewood, AL 35209 Prospective parents are invited Children at CMS learn the cmskids.org to call the administration same things that children in (205) 879-3278 office to schedule a tour. a traditional school learn —
Call to schedule a tour. 205-879-3278 • cmskids.org 18 months - 8th grade Empowering children to reach their unique potential through a Montessori education.
Bham Family November 2021 11
SPECIAL | PRIVATE SCHOOL GUIDE
THE ALTAMONT SCHOOL The mission of The Altamont School is to improve opportunities for students to develop multiple the fabric of society by graduating compassionate, well- talents by participating in arts, world languages, educated individuals capable of independent thinking community service, clubs, class projects, and athletics. and innovative ideas. To this end, the school attracts, Students also benefit from a 1-to-1 laptop program, nurtures, and challenges students whose commitment an advanced computer science curriculum, and to truth, knowledge, and honor will prepare them not unparalleled service leadership opportunities through only for the most rigorous college programs, but also Altamont’s C. Kyser Miree Ethical Leadership Center. for productive lives. Altamont is located five Altamont is a small family minutes from downtown of approximately 360 students Birmingham on the crest in grades 5-12 with socioof Red Mountain. Our economic, ethnic, and religious campus features Cabanissdiversity. Altamont is a good Kaul Center for the Arts, choice for students excelling in Pharo Art Studio, Lacey-Day their present schools who want Photography Studio, newly greater breadth and challenge renovated athletics spaces, two The Altamont School in all areas of school life. We science wings, a study garden Grades 5-12 combine an intensive, college and a 14,000-volume library. 4801 Altamont Road South preparatory academic program Experience all that Altamont Birmingham, AL 35222 with a personalized college offers by attending an Open altamontschool.org search program. House or scheduling a campus (205) 879-2006 There are many tour.
One of the nation’s premier independent schools for students in grades 5-12.
www.altamontschool.org 12 Bham Family November 2021
SPECIAL | PRIVATE SCHOOL GUIDE
GUIDEPOST MONTESSORI Guidepost Montessori is a new Montessori of the child, and on the belief that it is only the school in Birmingham, serving children from 16 child who can realize this potential. To grow up months to 6 years old. We know that choosing well is to grow up to be increasingly independent, a school for your child is a big decision with capable, confident, happy, and secure. At many factors in consideration. At the heart of Guidepost, we are the village that supports you in our school is our belief that children thrive when raising your child. given freedom and responsibility in environments We offer year-round programming and prepared for them. Guidepost Montessori rolling admissions into our programs to meet classrooms are light, airy, the needs of your family. calming, aesthetically We are conveniently located beautiful spaces. Each between the two suburbs Guidepost Montessori material is carefully chosen of Meadowbrook and Lake Grades: 16 months - 6 years and carefully displayed to Purdy, and are situated off 1700 Corporate Drive inspire and entice your child of Highway 280 and Cahaba Hoover, AL 35242 to explore. Valley Road. Our brand-new guidepostmontessori.com/ Why Guidepost? The campus opening Fall 2021 is schools/birmingham-al Montessori approach to now enrolling and ready to (571) 404-6620 human development is based welcome your family into our on the belief in the potential community!
Bham Family November 2021 13
ACTIVE LIVING
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PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF HOMEFIT
Fitting In Fitness Company brings specialized training directly to busy families
BY STEPHANIE GIBSON LEPORE A new company in town, HomeFit, brings years of experience and training to folks for whom adding one more to-do to their day feels impossible. The idea is that customized fitness solutions tailored to an individual or family’s needs will help better set the stage for success. With a team of multidisciplinary consultants who are trained in exercise, nutrition, and health behavior change, HomeFit professionals analyze goals and lifestyle—active stay-at-home moms, families who want to move together, etc.— and create a program that will motivate and encourage. CEO Matthew Foster, originally from Tupelo, Mississippi, served in the United States Marine Corps from 2008–2012 and did two tours in 14 Bham Family November 2021
Afghanistan. After getting out of the Marine Corps, he jumped into the fitness industry as a personal trainer in Mississippi and then Arizona. “When I decided to move to Birmingham in 2018, I knew I wanted to do something more than just personal training,” he says. “I wanted to get into the business side of the fitness industry. That’s how I met Cody Robinson— Cody started HomeFit in 2013, with the idea of offering a fitness solution for busy people. Cody always said he was seven or eight years too early for this concept in Birmingham. During the pandemic and beyond, that proved to be true.” The company is founded on the understanding of time constraints of today’s busy families, which is why they come to you. Need a workout while the baby naps? No problem. Want to CONTINUED ON PAGE 15
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schedule a session for the whole fam after dinner? They’ll set it up. Looking to train in the early morning hours with your spouse? Totally doable. “HomeFit specializes in training those who are chronically busy. It’s 2021: Who isn’t chronically busy, right?” says Matthew. “This includes parents who cannot seem to find the time to make it to a gym. We also cater to individuals who cannot find the specialized program they are looking for—senior adults recovering from a medical health issue, an injury, and even youth fitness.” A vetted, certified fitness pro comes to you. “That can be in a client’s home, neighborhood park. Your gym can be wherever it needs to be to fit your lifestyle. And the best part is that HomeFit provides the necessary equipment for each session. All our clients have to do is answer the door.” Matthew notes that HomeFit eliminates the excuses—too early, too late, too crowded, too much traffic—and instead makes it easy to fit in fitness. “When someone reaches out to HomeFit, the client can be assured they will be matched with a trainer who fits their needs. We take personality, location, schedule, and goals into account, and we always offer the first session free to ensure the match is the right fit. We understand everyone has a different health journey.” Matthew says HomeFit has two main objectives: One, meet clients where they are: mentally, emotionally, and physically (including location) and two, improve clients’ quality of life. “What we have noticed during the past year and a half is that busy parents are having a tough time finding the right fitness solution. Some of the main limiting factors parents are facing is a lack of fitness facilities with affordable childcare and not being able to schedule workout classes that mesh with their day-to-day lives. Many of our clients work out as a couple and even get their kids involved. HomeFit is a family fitness solution.” For more information, visit homefitconsulting.com.
HOMEFIT’S CORE VALUES •
Help Each Person Succeed Your success is their success, so HomeFit works to place everyone, from management to clients, in a position to succeed. “Obtaining health-related goals is difficult. We strive to alleviate the roadblocks and come up with proven tactics to achieve your goals.”
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Optimize Time and Efforts Everyone is busy, so it doesn’t make sense to waste hours you don’t have on programs that don’t fit your lifestyle and schedule. HomeFit aims to optimize their clients’ time and effort.
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Meet Clients Where They Are HomeFit is doable for beginners to seasoned fitness veterans. All workouts are tailored to specific needs/goals and can be adapted as necessary.
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Elevate the Face of Fitness HomeFit promises professionalism and realized goals in a safe environment. “We have a detailed and thorough hiring process to ensure your safety and results. Our staff maintains continuing education requirements to ensure you get the most advanced and productive training possible.”
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Feed Your Fire The team is confident in its tough love approach and will give clients the extra push they need. “Our bodies are constantly changing, which means goals will change. Lean on our team, and together we can achieve anything.”
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Initiate Motivational Encounters The fitness pros at HomeFit find what drives you, and motivates you accordingly. “Motivation blends into consistency, which blends into results.”
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Thrive In Excellence The company believes in connecting clients with the right trainer because it’s imperative to success. From personality to training style, they will consider every angle before matching you.
Bham Family November 2021 15
ESSAY
SANTA IN NOVEMBER BY SEAN OF THE SOUTH (SEAN DIETRICH) It’s November, but Mike is already getting the red velveteen suit from the closet. Because Christmas is getting closer, and Saint Nicholas has work to do. Namely, his dry cleaning. The first time they ever asked Mike to play Santa, he was hurt by the suggestion. Sure, he’s a bigger guy, but he didn’t see himself as having a “bowlful of jelly” tummy. Still, when someone asks you to play Father Christmas, they aren’t exactly asking you to pose for a Calvin Klein underwear ad. “Yeah, I’ve always been overweight, but I was a little offended,” said Mike. He played Santa anyway, and he had big fun. It came easy to him because he’s a nice guy with a cheerful face. He looks like the real deal. Over the years he’s grown into his role. “My first professional gig was at PetSmart, in a cheap Party City suit, posing with animals. The ferrets were a hoot. But 15 minutes before I was done, I saw this woman in line holding plastic boxes. Snakes, it had to be snakes.” After that, the Santa gigs kept rolling in. Soon, it had become more than just a job. Mike realized he was tending to the wonder and imaginations of children. Many people might not see the role of Santa as that important, but just think about it: Where would your childhood have been without the Big Guy? It would have been in the pits, that’s where. The magic of youth is easily extinguished by a stiff breeze. It is only kept alive by men and women who guard it with their lives. Every time a Santa puts on his suit, he is defending innocence. And every year he hears the same things all practicing Saints hear: 16 Bham Family November 2021
“My dog died.” “My mom has cancer. I’m scared.” “Can you bring back my dad from Heaven?” “Will foster parents ever want to adopt me?” And Mike always responds by wearing the rosy face of a veritable fairytale hero. He touches their hair and tells them, “Santa loves you.” And when appropriate, he tells them, “Santa is praying for you.” Last year, a coworker asked if Mike would do a home visit for his infant daughter. Mike agreed, and on one chilly day he showed up in full red-and-white regalia for the visit. “They couldn’t take her off her medical equipment,” said Mike. The child was only a few minutes old. She had a tracheotomy and was attached to oxygen. Mike looked at the baby, so pink and small. She couldn’t make a sound; her anatomy wasn’t strong enough. But Mike could see her tiny facial expressions and convulsions whenever she tried to cry. “It was hard,” he said. But then, this is simply the kind of thing Santas do. You might not notice these men unless it’s December, but believe me, they’re out there. And right now, they’re gearing up for a tricky holiday season now that Covid has come to town. Mike belongs to a huge fraternity of Santas, with members from Oregon to Virginia. From Australia to Israel. All shapes. All colors. All creeds. And all with the same hellacious drycleaning bill. The group’s main discussion this year is, of course, how to keep Christmas special during a pandemic. Because lots of shopping malls, department stores, and amusement parks are rethinking the role of Santa. And by “rethinking” I mean “canceling.” CONTINUED ON PAGE 17
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Some stores already don’t foresee any scenarios where kids will be sitting on Santa’s lap. Parades are being canned. Parties are being scrubbed. And we’re not even within spitting distance of Thanksgiving yet. Not to mention that about 20 million people are unemployed after COVID, and one out of every four adults admits to having trouble paying bills since the pandemic. It’s shaping up to be a hard candy Christmas for a lot of children. But this has not thwarted the regimen of men in crimson and arctic white. This is not the first pandemic Saint Nicholas has endured, and it won’t be his last. No matter how hard things become, you cannot kill a 1,749-year-old Jolly Elf. Thousands of Santas across the globe are reimagining new, creative ways to bring Christmas to kids this year. “I’ll be at a local mall,” said Mike. “I’ll be riding around in a train and stopping at various locations. Kids will be six feet away, but we’ll be able to do pictures.” Other Santas will be doing personal appearances on front lawns, porches, and in
parking lots. Even more will be doing video calls. A company named Jingle Ring is catering to military families with virtual Santa sessions for deployed parents. The idea is simple: on a family’s monitor screen will be kids, active-duty parents, and Mister Kringle himself. As I write this, troops of Santas are gathering twice per week to train on high-tech video equipment for the upcoming onslaught of Christmas video calls. If you can just imagine the milk and cookies being consumed at these things. “It’s fascinating,” says Mike, “to see a hundred or so Santas and Mrs. Clauses working so hard. I’ve been very inspired by these guys who really see being Santa as their mission in life.” Because, of course, it is their mission. For within all this world there is nothing so real and abiding as Santa Claus. Thank God, he lives, and lives forever. A thousand years from now; ten times ten thousand years from now. He lives despite war, famine, sadness, and in the throes of a sweeping pandemic. May he continue to make glad the heart of childhood. God bless you, Santa. And God bless your dry cleaner.
Coming soon to Ald ridge Gardens
Gif ts of A rt
Thursday, December 2, 9am-6pm Gifts of Art returns after a COVID break in 2020. This year promises some of the things you have enjoyed the past five years plus some new items from new artists. Gifts of Art is not a craft fair, but a one-stop Christmas shopping event with unique, one-of-a-kind art items from 13 local artists. Items are reasonably priced, averaging around $50-75, and our artists are chosen for their truly unique items—items not found at regular retail stores. From textiles to glass to pottery to jewelry to metal works, there is literally something for everyone on your Christmas gift list.
(205) 682-8019 | aldridgegardens.com 3530 Lorna Road, Hoover Bham Family November 2021 17
Sweet Holiday treats ASHLEY MAC’S ashleymacs.com, various locations This multi-location café is well-known for its chicken salad and strawberry cake—both delicious—but for Thanksgiving, opt for their seasonal pumpkin cheesecake pie. The strawberry jam cheese ring is listed under appetizer options, but it’s so good it’s worth offering as a savory dessert, too. BOTTEGA bottegarestaurant.com, (205) 939-1000 With just 48 hours’ notice, you can crown your table with a decadent coconut-pecan cake from James Beard Award-winning pastry chef Dolester Miles. One bite of the sweetened condensed milk, egg, and coconut filling, and no one will even remember the turkey. (Be sure to save a slice for Black Friday breakfast!) CRACKER BARREL crackerbarrel.com, various locations It’s not local per se, but every good Southerner knows Cracker Barrel is the next best thing to grandma’s cooking. Their chocolate-pecan pie is only available from late-October through the holidays, and Thanksgiving is the perfect time to serve it a la mode. The pies freeze well, so grab an extra one to enjoy in 2022. CRESTWOOD COFFEE CO. facebook.com/crestwoodcoffeeco, (205) 595-0300 Serving a sophisticated crowd? Make sure a blueberry-goat cheese pie from this little corner café is on the menu. Rave reviews and multiple “you gotta try it” raves from friends earned this treat a spot on our list of faves. It’s unbelievably delicious. 18 Bham Family November 2021
FOOD REVIEW
DAUGHTERS BAKING daughtersbaking.com, (205) 637-6238 Inspired by the “naked cake” trend, Mallory Webb solidified herself as Birmingham’s go-to for creative, rich-filling cakes with exposed edges. Customers can pick up their orders at her recently opened storefront in Mountain Brook Village. Preorder fall flavors such as pumpkin-brown butter or salted caramel-pretzel in a variety of sizes—3-, 6-, or 9-inch. EDOLYN’S PIES edolynspies.com, (205) 876-6754 Visit Edolyn’s in the Pizitz Food Hall to taste-test a handmade 4-inch mini pie, and order a couple of 9-inch pies for your turkey table. Recipes for such flavors as sweet potato, lemon chess, pecan, and brownie have been in the family for three generations. EMILY’S HEIRLOOM POUNDCAKES emilysheirloompoundcakes.com, (205) 937-7392 Born out of a fundraising idea, April McClung’s pound cake business grew exponentially as word spread that the traditional Southern desserts tasted light and moist, just like pound cakes back in the day. The pound cakes are made from scratch using a family recipe passed down from April’s husband’s grandmother, Emily Magnolia McClung. Choose from original, chocolate, lemon, and key lime. HOMEWOOD GOURMET homewoodgourmet.com, (205) 871-1620 You can order a traditional pumpkin or chocolate chess pie here, or expand your horizons with a pecan-oatmeal pie or pumpkin bread pudding CONTINUED ON PAGE 19
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with bourbon caramel. If you’re hosting out-oftown family or friends overnight, be sure to pick up a cinnamon-pecan coffee cake for an easy, delicious breakfast the next morning. JAWANDA’S SWEET POTATO PIES jawandasweetpotatopie.com, (205) 874-9880 With 15 flavors of sweet potato pies, you’ll find something to suit everyone at the dinner, er dessert, table this year. Preorder an original pie, plus an extra flavor like pecan or orange crème cheese. MARTIN’S BAR-B-QUE JOINT martinsbbqjoint.com; (205) 715-8999 In addition to full meals and a la carte smoked meats and sides, Martin’s is offering pecan, fudge, and sweet potato pie for Thanksgiving. But our personal nontraditional pick is the gallon-size Nanner Puddin’. PASTRY ART BAKE SHOPPE pastryartcakes.com, two locations Anyone who’s eaten a Baby Bite from Pastry Art knows you can’t eat just one, but if you’re looking
DENTISTRY FOR INFANTS, CHILDREN, TEENS, AND THOSE WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
for variety, order a few dozen of these bite-size cakes in multiple flavors: caramel, pumpkin spice, hummingbird, vanilla, red velvet, carrot, coconut, and more. The combinations are endless and delicious. SORELLE CAFÉ cafesorelle.com, (205) 848-2818 Owner Joy Smith recently opened her café as an extension of her catering services, and lucky patrons can order one of her signature cheesecakes with a crumbly, delicious graham cracker crust for Thanksgiving dessert. The cheesecakes are also available at select Piggly Wiggly locations. TABLE & THYME Jump on the charcuterie/snack board graze with a box from Table & Thyme. End your Thanksgiving meal with an assortment of fruit, nuts, and sweets from their menu choices, or work with the company to create a custom box. Bonus: Presentation is pretty and cleanup is a breeze! The company also offers their “famous chocolate chip cookies” in 12-, 24-, and 36-count, especially easy if you’re traveling with dessert.
Meet the team keeping Birmingham looking good!
Tabitha Jarman Gatrey, DMD
4823 Promenade Pkwy Suite 101 | McCalla 205/230-9000
psmilesal.com
1830 29th Ave S, Ste 140 | SoHo in Homewood (205) 582-2999 | singlebarrelbarbershop.com Bham Family November 2021 19
MEDICAL SPOTLIGHT MEDICAL SPOTLIGHT
ASK A PHYSICIAN Commitment to Personalized Care
consultations by phone or email, etc., and patients have my direct number to call/text/ video chat for after-hour needs or issues as well.
Q: Please tell us how and why you started Cahaba Concierge Medicine. A: I have been practicing family medicine for more than 12 years as an employed physician. While I loved my practice and patients, each year seemed to bring more regulations and restrictions that slowly chipped away at physician autonomy and patient-centered care. During a COVID-induced two-week quarantine this past spring, my husband urged me to take a step of faith and start a private medical practice, so Cahaba Concierge Medicine was created. By choosing to separate from both insurance and corporate medicine requirements, we are again able to concentrate on excellent patient care and placing the patient first.
Q: What services will you offer? Dr. Katie Moore is a graduate of the University of Mississippi Medical Center and she completed her residency in family medicine at St. Vincent’s East. She began her medical practice with Trinity Family Medicine (now Grandview) in Liberty Park. After 11-plus years, Dr. Moore asked her staff to take a step of faith to establish Cahaba Concierge Medicine. The vision for the clinic is to provide excellent personalized and compassionate care to each patient without the limitations of traditional medical care.
Q: What need did you see that Cahaba Concierge Medicine could fill? A: Especially in our present time, the need for personalized and thorough medical care is paramount, and Cahaba Concierge Medicine provides this care with your personal physician and familiar clinic staff each visit. Q: How does it work? A: Cahaba Concierge Medicine is an insurance-free clinic. Instead of filing with insurance, a $150 per month adult membership fee (plus an $8.33 lab fee per month) allows for any needed appointments, 20 Bham Family November 2021
A: With a smaller patient population, we can offer little to no wait times, same-day/ next-day appointments, no crowded waiting rooms, and the personal service that our patients deserve. Q: How did you choose/hire staff?
A: My staff consists of women (and my friends) whom I have worked with for many years. My medical assistant, Julie Dulaney, has been my “nurse” for more than 10 years; my receptionist and other assistant, Kaitlyn Handley, has worked with me for more than 8 years. My physician’s assistant, Helen Alexander, has been working alongside me for more than 7 years now, and each of these women share my love for patients and entire patient families. Q: What is the goal for care at Cahaba Concierge Medicine? A: Our goal is to return to the “small-town” doctorpatient relationship by providing the attention and time that each patient deserves. Q: Will you limit patients? A: Yes. We anticipate reaching our planned CONTINUED ON PAGE21
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patient population by early 2022. Q: How does Cahaba Concierge Medicine appeal to families specifically? A: Caring for entire families is the reason I chose to pursue a Family Medicine specialty, and this vision continues with Cahaba Concierge Medicine. Any children of an adult member in our clinic will not have a monthly membership fee, but rather can be seen for a flat fee of $50 per appointment as needed. Our current patient ages span from newborn to 97 years old. Cahaba Concierge Medicine is located at 8011 Liberty Parkway, Suite 101, Vestavia Hills. For more information, call (205) 255-4024 or visit cahabaconcierge.com.
Bham Family November 2021 21
FOOD
MAKING
Memories IN THE KITCHEN
A Thanksgiving appetizer the entire family will love This creative, kidfriendly appetizer is fun to make and healthy, too.
BY HOLLEY GRAINGER, MS, RD The holidays are the perfect time to bring your children (from toddlers to teens) into the kitchen to cook with you. These special times together will create memories that last a lifetime. Even little ones can get in on the action! Let the kids help you make this funny but oh-so-tasty Thanksgiving appetizer featuring tart Granny Smith apples, sweet Honeycrisp apples, and good-quality cheddar cheese. Worried your apples may brown if you make this ahead? I love to dissolve a tablespoon of Fruit Fresh in a bowl of water, add the sliced apples, and let them sit in the water for about 5 minutes. You can also sprinkle them directly with Fruit Fresh. If you’re looking for more cute seasonal food ideas, check out my Holiday Foods for Kids Pinterest Board at pinterest.com/holleygrainger/ fun-holiday-food-for-kids. 22 Bham Family November 2021
KID-FRIENDLY CHEDDAR-AND-APPLE TURKEY APPETIZER 1/2 Bosc pear 1 bag each of sliced green and red apples 1 8-ounce bar cheddar cheese 1 dried apricot (feet and wattle) 1 tsp peanut butter or other nut butter 2 raisins 1/2 peanut Cut the pear in half lengthwise and lay on a flat surface. Starting from the bottom of the pear, alternate apple slices and cheddar until you have made a rainbow with the “feathers” around the “turkey.” Use kitchen shears to cut feet and a wattle out of a dried apricot. Use a small amount of peanut butter to secure eyes (raisins), nose (1/2 peanut), and wattle (dried apricot). Refrigerate until ready to serve.
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Bham Family November 2021 23
FEATURE
PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF CELLA JONES
Mountain Brook native Cella Jones founded Nannies in Your Neighborhood after families asked her to clone herself.
Finding the Right Fit Nannies in Your Neighborhood pairs local families with the best caretakers around
BY STEPHANIE GIBSON LEPORE Mountain Brook native Cella Jones started out babysitting like many young girls do—for extra money during her teenage years. And, as every family knows, word of a good, trusted sitter spreads quickly. “I have a strong passion for working and spending time with children,” says 22-year-old Cella, who started babysitting a decade ago at age 12. “I love watching them grow and seeing the world through their eyes. Watching their little brains experience new things is so fun!” After graduating from Mountain Brook High School in 2017, Cella moved to attend Troy State University. After two years on campus, however, 24 Bham Family November 2021
she knew college just wasn’t for her, and she returned to her first love: babysitting. “Since coming home, I have been a fulltime nanny for families in the Over the Mountain area,” she says. “I loved my job and, unbeknownst to me, ended up with quite a good reputation in the babysitting/nanny world. Moms began calling me to see if I was available to nanny—it was such a compliment! But, unfortunately for these families, I wasn’t free.” The next question these families asked was if she knew any Cella clones. “These families started asking if I would help them find the perfect nanny for them, and a CONTINUED ON PAGE 25
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lightbulb turned on. Hence, the birth of Nannies in Your Neighborhood.” Cella explains that Nannies in Your Neighborhood is committed to pairing families who need a nanny with the right nanny who needs a family. “Our nannies are seeking employment, so they are just as important as the families in need,” she says. And, while the process may seem relatively simple, she says, it’s actually time-consuming and detail-oriented. First, a potential family submits a consultation form with their specific needs—such as days, hours, location, pay, job expectations—then, Cella searches their nanny pool to find a potential match for those details. “Once we have a handful of interested nannies, we set up interviews between the nannies and families. It is very important for families to know that all of our nannies have been screened before any interviews take place,” she says. “We call all references and run a very thorough background check on each applicant.” A majority of nanny applications are rejected because the person does not represent what the company requires in a nanny, so families can trust that they will only be interviewing vetted applicants who pass Nannies in Your Neighborhood’s stringent expectations. “After the interview process, families typically find an applicant they love and want to move forward in the hiring process,” says Cella. “This is the easy part! Once both parties agree and complete the proper paperwork, the search is over. We have a happy family and a happy nanny.” Currently, Nannies in Your Neighborhood only offers full-time (30-40 hours weekly) and part-time (20-29 hours weekly) nanny placement, and Cella is focused on eliminating some of the obstacles she faces as a business owner. “Slow communication from both families and nannies is often very difficult to work around, specifically during the interview arrangements and post-interview followup,” she says. “It’s nearly impossible to place a nanny when weeks go by before someone responds to a call, email, or text.” Another hiccup? Social media. “Facebook is a constant thorn in our side!” says Cella. “Many families and nannies are connecting via Facebook, and that is worrisome to us. We truly hope each party has done their homework prior to hiring. Nannies in Your Neighborhood does a great deal of, if you will, “investigating” each potential
nanny. We know what to ask, and we ask the hard questions a family may not. We know what makes a nanny great, and we also know what makes a nanny not great.” While she acknowledges that great connections have been made through social media, at the end of the day it’s imperative to know if your children are in kind, caring, safe hands. “If we found your nanny,” says Cella, “then the answer is 100 percent yes.” After seven months of successful nanny placements, Cella believes the company’s biggest accomplishments are yet to come, and she does have definite dreams for the future. “We would love to expand across the state of Alabama and continue to have happy and satisfied clients. And we would also love to offer a wider range of services.” “This is by far one of the hardest things I’ve ever done!” says Cella. “I love our community, and I know there is a need for Nannies in Your Neighborhood in the Over the Mountain area. At the end of the day, it feels good knowing these children are in loving and trusted hands. The parents are happy, the nannies are happy, and Nannies in Your Neighborhood is happy! We are so grateful for everyone.” For more information, visit nanniesinyourneighborhood.com. Bham Family November 2021 25
FEATURE
A Lesson in Love Author felt inspired to write a children’s book based off a very special friendship
s ou
s
s t ne.
PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF CLAYTON MARTIN
Author Clayton Martin with wife McKinley and daughters Norah (3) and Mary Collins (6 months)
BY STEPHANIE GIBSON LEPORE Springville author Clayton Martin wasn’t necessarily shocked that he wrote and published a children’s book recently, but he was somewhat surprised by the timing. “I never imagined I would do it this early,” he says. “I’ve always had a passion for writing and am so honored to be able to complete a project like this. The opportunity to share this story with anyone and everyone excites me greatly.” The project to which he is referring is his new children’s book, “I Love You More Than Me,” released early last month. The book was inspired by a beautiful friendship between one of Clayton and wife McKinley’s daughters, Norah, and family friend Levi Adams. Though he has a front-row seat to the special bond between Norah and Levi, the concept for the book came about in an 26 Bham Family November 2021
unusual way. “It’s actually a crazy story,” Clayton says. “I had a physical dream one night that I had written a kid’s book about the friendship of my daughter and one of her friends. As I began to think about it, the message and the title came to me—and the rest is history.” The history is that, when sitting down to put the words to paper, Clayton remained completely open-minded. “I had an idea, but I didn’t want to cap my creativity,” he explains. “As I started writing, the words began to flow as a rhyme book. So, I kept it going. Once I finished, I had a few people read it to see if it was any good, and the results were an overwhelming yes.” Next came the task of getting the book published, which came with a choice. “I began the publishing route by deciding between the CONTINUED ON PAGE 27
“This book is special in many ways. Levi, the boy character in the book, has Down Syndrome. His story is inspiring, and his life is a miracle. In the story, Levi has an opportunity to show Norah that he loves her more than himself.” Levi’s friendship with Clayton’s daughter, Norah, inspired the book. CONTINUED FROM PAGE 24
traditional journey and the self-publishing journey,” Clayton says. “After several discussions with both, I decided to self-publish through IngramSpark.” The Tennessee-based publishing company allows authors to upload their material, and IngramSpark prints on-demand orders through a network of ordering systems that include 40,000 independent and chain bookstores and online retailers. Needing pictures to pair with his words, Clayton then reached out to a former student from his days in student ministry, Zak Tracy. “I partnered with Zak to do the illustrations,” he says. “He’s a high school student in Tampa, Florida, and he did an incredible job.” More important than all of this, however, is the message Clayton wanted to share through his words. “This book is special in many ways. Levi, the boy character in the book, has Down Syndrome. His story is inspiring, and his life is a miracle. In the story, Levi has an opportunity to show Norah that he loves her more than himself. [The book is written from Levi’s perspective.] The message is deeper than it may appear at
first glance. This story is about a friendship that emulates unconditional love, joy, and inclusion— despite the differences. It’s truly a story about loving others more than ourselves,” he says. Levi’s parents wrote a letter to readers that is also printed in the book. “In the crazy world that we live in, it’s so important to love your neighbor as yourself,” says Clayton of the weight of his book’s message. “A love like that is counter-cultural. The more we can teach and show our kids what this kind of love looks like, the better our world will be.” This won’t be the last publication from Clayton: “We do have another book in the works, but it is in the preliminary stages,” he says. “We are very excited about it and know that it has the potential of a life-changing message.” Clayton is working on scheduling a book signing at Nichols Nook Coffee House in Springville (nichols-nook.business.site). Find “I Love You More Than Me” at various online retailers, including Amazon, Target, and Barnes & Noble. Bham Family November 2021 27
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Beyond Van Gogh Exhibit makes its way to the Magic City through the New Year BY STEPHANIE GIBSON LEPORE Dutch post-Impressionist artist Vincent Van Gogh is one of the most prolific artists to ever emerge from Europe, though his fame and influence on modern art history did not take shape until after his death at age 37. His works are known for bold color and dramatic strokes, seen in paintings such as The Starry Night, Irises, and Café Terrace at Night. Now, Beyond Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience, has come to Birmingham at the BJCC, November 17 through January 2, 2022. Featuring a three-dimensional experience, guests will take in more than 300 works that include Van Gogh’s most well-known paintings, as well as a selection of selfportraits. Beyond Van Gogh was conceptualized by French-Canadian creative director Mathieu St-Arnaud and his team at Normal Studio in Montreal. These world-renowned audiovisual designers created an imaginative exhibit using cutting-edge projection technology that allows guests to immerse themselves into Van Gogh’s world. His dreams, thoughts, and words lead the narrative as you walk through. Wall projections include the light, color, and swirling shapes for which Van Gogh is known: Flower, cafe, and landscape masterpieces with larger-than-life details dance across multiple “canvases.” “Through his own words set to a symphonic score, we may come to a new appreciation of this tortured artist’s stunning work,” notes the exhibition website. The art presentation is suitable for all ages, so you can make it a family outing. Ticket prices start at $32.99 for adults and $21.99 for children ages 5 and up. Visit vangoghbirmingham.com for more information. 28 Bham Family November 2021
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Regular hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. The exhibit is closed Mondays. Holiday hours: On Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day, hours are noon – 6 p.m.; Christmas Eve hours are 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Expect the exhibit to take about an hour. Last entry is at 8 p.m. Tickets: Prices vary, but all tickets are timed and must be purchased ahead. There are no ticket sales at the door. Location: The BJCC, 1 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N., Birmingham, 35203 Precautions: The exhibition is walk-through and space is accommodated for social distancing and heightened sanitation protocols. Masks are required inside the venue. Accessibility: The exhibit is accessible to wheelchairs, scooters, etc., and limited seating is available for those with mobility issues. Other: A cashless gift shop is on-site. Food and drinks are not permitted inside the exhibit. Photos are allowed and encouraged, but flash or professional photography or videography is not. A Spotify playlist of the exhibition’s music can be found by searching “Beyond Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience.”
Trampolines
Commercial Playground Equipment
Play Sets
3165 Cahaba Valley Rd, Indian Springs [2 mi. from I-65] (205) 408-4FUN | backyardalabama.com Bham Family November 2021 29
KIDS WHO SHINE
OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD BY STEPHANIE GIBSON LEPORE ‘Tis the season for indulgence, and that includes gifts, treats, and toys galore. While typically we feature local kids doing great things in this column, this month our focus is on how you can help your own kids shine. In a culture that can feel like “more is more,” especially during the holidays, a great way to turn your family’s eyes toward someone else is to participate in a charity endeavor together. Operation Christmas Child, known for their “shoebox gifts,” is a ministry project of Samaritan’s Purse. During the month of November, boxes are filled with small toys, school supplies, hygiene items, and socks or other clothing, and dropped off at an official collection site, where they are then distributed around the world “to demonstrate God’s love in a tangible way. For many of these children, the gift-filled shoebox is the first gift they have ever received.” Since 1993, Operation Christmas Child, has supplied more than 188 million shoeboxes to children. This year, the goal is to reach 9.7 million. That’s where local families come in. Shoebox gifts are a great family project to show kids of all ages how to demonstrate generosity toward others. Mom Catherine Reynolds shares that her family loves packing Operation Christmas Child boxes together each year. “It is a great way to teach our girls—Hallie (6) and Harper (5)—that some children do not get toys at Christmas, and this is a great way to bless others. The girls each pack a box for a little girl their own age, and they also pack a box in honor of their brother who passed way two years ago. Our favorite part is knowing these children receive hand-picked items from us but, more importantly, the gift of the Gospel is placed in their hands! The toys will break one day but the message of Jesus will last forever.” Plan a few hours to escort children to a bigbox store such as Walmart, Target, and Dollar Tree, and let them choose items to fill their boxes. Like the Reynolds girls, in our family, we fill a box for a girl the same age as our daughter, so we’re shopping for someone who likely has similar interests. (If you’re tight on time, or just want to do a few extra boxes, there is an option online to 30 Bham Family November 2021
PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF CATHERINE REYNOLDS
Hallie and Harper Reynolds pack shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child.
purchase a filled box for a particular age/gender.) Samaritan’s Purse recommends including a “wow” item such as a soccer ball with pump, stuffed animal, or small doll, along with fun toys, hygiene items like a hairbrush and toothbrush, and school supplies. You can also include a personal note and family photo. For more options, Samaritan’s Purse breaks down gift ideas by age, gender, and category online. There Is also a list online of Items (like food and liquids) that should not be included. Make a morning of shopping and chatting about where your boxes could end up, how special it is for these children to receive the items we often take for granted, and the impact a seemingly small gesture can make on another person. Operation Christmas Child has become a November tradition in many local families’ homes, and it teaches the value and importance of making an impact and serving others. Boxes are available at some area churches, for purchase online, and at retailers such as Hobby Lobby, but you can also wrap a standard-size shoebox in holiday paper. Then, pack your box or boxes together—you can even hit “play” on some seasonal tunes and turn it into a family packing party. Print a label online at samaritanspurse.org/ operation-christmas-child/label-options, and take your box/boxes to a local collection site. For a $9 donation online, you can help offset shipping costs and also receive tracking information to follow your boxes to their final destinations. Following your boxes’ journey is a great way to show your kids how far-reaching their gifts are, too. This year’s National Collection Week is
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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.
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