Desoto Magazine December 2014

DeSoto 1

2 DeSoto

DeSoto 3

4 DeSoto

DeSoto 5

6 DeSoto

December CONTENTS 2014 • VOLUME 11 • NO. 12

features 47 Christmas in Canton

Lighting up the season in annual style.

By Judy Smith

52 From Tennessee to Texas

Luke 2:11

McCullars’ ranch home defined by land.

By Karen Ott Mayer

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.

66 Gone with the Wind Trail

Where the big screen meets the street.

By Lazelle Jones

60 Hispanic Holidays

Discovering the rich holiday traditions of Mexico.

By Andrea Brown Ross

departments 18 Living Well

When the season means sneezing

By Karen Ott Mayer

72 Homegrown Memphis’ Brave Design Jewelry

By Andrea Brown Ross

20 Living Real

74 In Good Spirits

22 Exploring Art

76 Table Talk

26 Exploring Books

78 Exploring Events

The primal pull of genealogy

By Jill Gleeson Germantown’s Winter Arts connects artists

By Andrea Brown Ross Mississippi’s cherished Christmas stories

By Mary Ann DeSantis

30 Exploring Cuisine

A tasty, healthful cherry holiday

By Ann N. Yungmeyer

Always the eggnog

By Cheré Coen

Hernando’s Underground Cafe

By Corey Latta

80 Reflections

The Last Step

By Karen Ott Mayer

34 Exploring Destinations

A Smoky Mountain Christmas

By George Brown

38 A Day Away

Collierville, Tennessee

43 Greater Goods

DeSoto 7

8 DeSoto

editor’s note }

december

A Merry Ending

Welcome to year’s end.

It’s so cliched to say, but how is it possible in the blink of St. Nick’s eye, that we’re facing another holiday season and the end of a year? It truly seems like it was just January as we welcomed the Mitchells to DeSoto and the brainstorming began anew. This year has flown by as we’ve grown, and in the process, enjoy sharing thoughts with you, our readers.

Planning for a holiday issue is always just plain fun. Everyone is excited.

More festivals and celebrations happen across the region, towns light up, and the parties begin. In Canton, Mississippi the holidays unfold in a big way with Christmas in Canton. For almost an entire month, the town welcomes thousands of visitors who enjoy the displays, shopping, and merriment as Judy tells us on page 47.

If you’re craving something further down the road, head to East Tennessee where the holidays can be over-the-top ostentatious or as tranquil as quiet winter forests. George gives us so many options on page 34 that it’s a shame December isn’t two months long.

While we like to find those off-beat stories, sometimes it’s good to just circle back with a comfortable classic.

Eggnog fits that bill nicely and Cheré graciously took on the task of tasting new combinations on page 75. Mary Ann reminds us of a wonderful Mississippi classic in her piece about “Christmas Stories of Mississippi” book which has become a holiday tradition around many fireplaces.

I personally had the pleasure of talking with Boni Lee McCullar whose

December 2014 • Vol. 11 No.12

PUBLISHER & CREATIVE DIRECTOR Adam Mitchell

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER & ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Paula Mitchell

EDITOR Karen Ott Mayer

PHOTOGRAPHY Karen Ott Mayer Adam Mitchell

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS wit and creativity can’t be contained. A Memphian turned Texan, Boni followed her cowboy husband to Texas nearly two decades ago where she designed yet another signature home so unlike her stunning Memphis home.

Every month, we consider your time and interest in DeSoto to be our greatest gift. With the new year, we have a few changes planned on our pages-and can’t wait to share them with you!

Meanwhile, on behalf of everyone at DeSoto, I wish you a holiday season filled with joy, promise and a bit of childlike magic.

Until 2015,

Karen

on the cover Our December cover features the Christmas decor of The Pink Zinnia. Based in Hernando, Miss. the boutique has been open since 2005.

Betsy Carol Tackett & Cory Hollis manage and merchandise the store themselves and love every minute of it.

George Brown Cheré Coen Mary Ann DeSantis Jill Gleeson Lazelle Jones Corey Latta Karen Ott Mayer Andrea Brown Ross Judy Smith Ann Yungmeyer

PUBLISHED BY Desoto Media Co.

2375 Memphis St. Ste 205 Hernando, MS 38632 662.429.4617 Fax 662.449.5813

DeSotoMagazine.com Get social with us!

© 2014 DeSoto Media Co. DeSoto Magazine must give permission for any material contained herein to be reproduced in any manner.

Any advertisements published in DeSoto Magazine do not constitute an endorsement of the advertiser’s services or products. DeSoto Magazine is published monthly

by DeSoto Media Co. Parties interested in advertising should email paula@desotomag.com or call 662.429.4617. Visit us online at desotomagazine.com.

DeSoto 9

10 DeSoto

DeSoto 11

12 DeSoto

DeSoto 13

14 DeSoto

DeSoto 15

16 DeSoto

DeSoto 17

18 DeSoto

DeSoto 19

living well }

holiday allergies

Sounds of the

Sneezing

By Karen Ott Mayer. Photography courtesy of gardenista.com

Decking the halls with boughs of holly can bring joy… or allergy misery if not careful. Fortunately, the season arrives at a favorable time of year.

“Generally, the holidays come during the winter when outdoor allergies are low and allergy sufferers aren’t having a lot of issues,” said Stephanie Connelly, M.D., M.P.H an internal medicine specialist with Methodist LeBonheur Healthcare in Memphis, Tennessee.

So while this helps, it doesn’t help that everyone is 20 DeSoto

also busy stringing live greenery, bringing outdoor trees in the house, burning lots of wood fires, scented candles and shuffling around the attic in dust. Smoke, molds, dust, dirt, and scents can suddenly lead to a lot of sneezing instead of singing.

Connelly, whose specialty focuses on disease prevention including screening and immunizations, believes patients can

enjoy the holidays with minimal aggravation by simply being aware of those triggers hidden under all that holiday fluff.

“Molds are associated with both artificial and real trees and can cause allergy and asthma problems. Everyone knows that Memphis is the worst for allergies, but the good news is that summer and winter are typically known as relief seasons as opposed to spring and fall when everything is in bloom and the pollen is high,” said Connelly.

Christmas trees are only one source of potential a g g r av a t i o n .

“Cigarette smoke, fireplaces, candles and perfumed scents can also cause problems,” explained Connelly.

Whether putting up the tree means one trip to the attic or bounding over field and gale in search of the perfect live specimen, mold and dust are the primary culprits. Michael Buchart of the Southern Christmas Tree Association works with growers all over the Southeast and understands the benefits and risks of live-cut trees.

“Artificial or live, these are fibrous structures that are going to collect and catch stuff. A live tree may have more dust, dirt, loose needles than obviously an artificial tree.” Growers are fully aware of the reality and work to help buyers minimize any potential problems. “Most trees are shook on site and wrapped. That’s a good thing. But they don’t wash the trees. Once you get a tree home, you can hose it down and sit it out until dry,” said Buchart.

While Buchart acknowledges trees may carry mold or spores, he maintains that good practices indoors can go a long way in alleviating problems. “Don’t put a tree directly in the front window where sunlight can dry it out faster. If it’s located near a heater vent, close the vent. Most stands aren’t designed to hold enough water, so once you have the tree up, water it well to avoid having needles dry out and drop.

Likewise, a tree is like anything else when it comes to mold. It is stays in a dark, wet area for a long time, it could potentially produce mold.”

Buchart believes common sense goes a long way with live trees. “Be sensible about how early you are going to put up a live tree. The longer it’s up, the dryer it will become.”

The type of Christmas tree also contributes to allergy levels. Years ago, Virginia pines and Eastern Red Cedars were commonly grown in the South.

“Today, we grow a lot of Leland Cypress because it’s easier to manage on the farm, but it’s also touted as an allergen-friendly tree. It has less fragrance or is nearly scentless compared to pines and cedars,” said Buchart.

For asthma sufferers, smoke far outweighs a tree when it comes to triggers.

“Cigarette smoke is the worst, but fireplace smoke or scents can also trigger problems,” said Connelly.

Connelly advises everyone to be aware of allergy symptoms, even if not normally susceptible to allergic reactions. “We’re essentially bringing the outdoors in. If suddenly you are sneezing or your eyes are runny, it’s possible you’re having a reaction to something in the house.”

With chestnuts roasting over an open fire and mistletoe hanging in the hallway, the holiday house may be merry and bright or be filled with the sounds of sneezing. By being aware of those hidden holiday triggers, the holiday season can come and go with allergy peace to all men.

Am I Having an Allergic Reaction?

Common symptoms indicate a possible irritation or allergy: Watery Eyes Runny Nose Sneezing Wheezing or Shortness of Breath Itchy Eyes

DeSoto 21

living real } genealogy

U ne arthing R oots Genealogy Goes Big by Going Home Story by Jill Gleeson. Photo courtesy of gardenweb.com

It all begins with a curiosity, a pull to know more.

Story sketches serve as the start: You are a young man from Canada. You know nothing of your mother’s heritage – it’s long been a mystery, even to her. You submit your DNA to a database and discover that your mother’s mother was Jewish and gave up her baby during World War II. Or, you hire a professional genealogist and learn that your great-grandfather was a dashing, daredevil race car driver. Or perhaps you dig into your family’s history yourself and uncover the love story of your second great-grandparents. He was a Civil War veteran working as a carpenter in New Orleans. She was from Ireland, in the city visiting cousins who had hired him to renovate their home. The meet and marry and a century and a half later you’re looking at photographs of a beautiful couple whose chromosomes helped make you who you are today.

22 DeSoto

These are true tales unearthed through genealogy, the study of family ancestries and histories, which has become arguably the planet’s most popular hobby. According to a 2012 study by market-research firm Global Industry Analysts, there are more than 84 million genealogists at work around the world. According to professional genealogist Caroline Pointer, most are drawn to the pursuit by a desire to better understand themselves.

“In a broad sense, everyone wants to know where they belong,” explained Pointer, who is also director of the Federation of Genealogical Societies, an umbrella organization that encompasses 500 genealogical societies worldwide.

“Figuring out where you belong is important and knowing where you came from helps you to do that. People who hated history when they were growing up - maybe they don’t even like the History Channel - once they find that they’ve got some skin in the game, it takes on a whole different feel. It becomes very personal.”

If genealogy has been big business in the past, it’s going to be a big booming business in the future. In 2012, 2.3 billion dollars was spent on genealogy work; by 2018 the market for genealogy products and services should reach 4.3 billion dollars GIA predicts. There are now thousands of blogs listed on Geneabloggers and the Genealogy Gems podcast has been downloaded more than one million times in 75 countries. Television shows dedicated to the pastime abound as well, including The Learning Channel’s “Who Do You Think You Are” and “Finding You Roots,” “History Detectives” and “Genealogy Roadshow” on PBS.

This growth is largely thanks to technological advancements. The Internet has been a godsend to genealogists. Online research sites such as market leader ancestry.com give users quick, easy access to historical documents and other resources while providing them with the tools to fashion family trees with detailed profiles of ancestors. (The website’s subscribers have created an astounding 60 million family trees containing more than six billion profiles.) In addition, Google has made it easier to find far-flung living relatives, while social media ensures everyone stays connected.

And then there’s DNA testing.

A miracle of modern science in 1984 when the first DNA fingerprinting techniques were developed, genetic testing is now widely available to anyone who wants to find out from whom and where they came. There are dozens of companies who provide direct-to-consumer testing for genealogy, deep ancestry and ethnicity, but Family Tree DNA, which has performed testing for the National Geographic Society since 2005, offers the largest DNA database in the world, with 700,185 records. The whole process is surprisingly simple. Family Tree mails out a testing kit; clients swab the inside of their cheeks with a cotton brush and then return it. DNA is extracted, analyzed and compared against Family Tree’s database.

“We’re going to show you if there’s anyone in our database who is a likely first, second, or third cousin to you,” detailed Bennett Greenspan, Family Tree DNA founder and company president. “Think how impactful that could be if you were adopted and know nothing about your family…we just put an adoptee back with his biological mother and father! We’ve also obtained DNA databases from ethnic groups all over the world. So we can compare your DNA to those reference populations and see where you fit the best. This percentage testing, where I can tell you what percentage this or that you are, really resonates with people of all ages.”

But as nifty as online research sites and DNA testing is, aspiring genealogists really only need to begin by asking themselves “Who am I and what do I know?”

Look at documents such as birth certificates for information you might not be aware of, like your mother’s maiden name. Visit with family members to find out what they know. But be wary, for as Pointer said, “Once you start you’re never done with genealogy. It’s an obsession that just grows and grows.”

DeSoto 23

exploring art } winter arts

24 DeSoto

Artful

Connections

By Andrea Brown Ross Photography courtesy of Greg Belz

WinterArts provides an opportunity to connect with some of the Mid-South’s most talented artists through their handcrafted holiday gift ideas.

Connections.

For the WinterArts Executive Director, Greg Belz, that’s what WinterArts is all about.

“I like art that’s functional, so I can interact and appreciate it often. For me, art is as much about a personal connection with

the artist, as it is about the work. I’m as much struck by the talent and inventiveness of the person who created the piece, as the piece itself. Their work is a statement about themselves and collecting it is like having an ongoing conversation with the artist, “ Belz explained.

DeSoto 25

Just as the patron can connect with the artist, WinterArts also provides an opportunity for area artists to connect with one another.

“WinterArts is an amazing collection of work by the region’s top artists, in a variety of disciplines: glass, metal, wood, fiber and clay. Being surrounded by their work is like being at a really fun party that’s always waiting for you when you come home,” said Belz.

Local artisan, Sharron Barrett, agreed.

“WinterArts is a fun place to shop. Most of the artists featured have participated since the beginning in 2009. The camaraderie among the artists has made this event not only a pleasant place to shop, but a beautiful show.”

Another local artisan, Virginia Fisher, explained her thoughts about connections made through WinterArts.

“I have had the honor of being in WinterArts each year since it started. It is a treat to show and sell along side some of Memphis’ best craft artisans.”

Fisher described the path that led her to the South’s premiere holiday artist’s market.

26 DeSoto

“They let me into art school at Appalachian State University for painting, but I wanted to do metals. At first I couldn’t get into any of the metal classes, so I took fiber arts.

Eventually, the three disciplines began to blend. My metal work was crossing over into other classes, and I fell brutally in love with copper and making vessels. After graduation, I had decided to set up my studio to make copper baskets. “

Following the example of her self-employed parents, Fisher decided that she, too, would go into business for herself.

“I had to make something and sell it, but I had to make something I enjoyed making. Incorporating screen and sheet metal into baskets pulled me away from traditional baskets to woven trays and wall hangings. The work began to dance the line of art and craft. I came to peace with the idea that my art will always pursue fine craft. “

Fisher elaborated on why her baskets are one of a kind.

“When creating the baskets, I refuse to be limited by just metal smithing techniques. I use any knowledge I can summon on every basket. Stitching, painting, weaving, felting,

drawing, or whatever, can influence a basket.

No two pieces could ever be identical. “

“Functionally, the majority of the copper basket series is made for both looks and use. I tell people to use the baskets and when they are not using them to hang them like a painting or enjoy them as sculpture. New copper baskets have handles, encouraging the functional aspect of the basket. Some baskets, like the bubble baskets, are simply to be enjoyed for their dimension, color, and texture,” she said.

Barrett, alongside her husband Jim Barrett, has studied in Italy, and through the years, has created an inlay process for her fused pieces not found in this region.

Previous professional experience in graphic design and making stained glass windows has contributed to Barrett’s overall artistic ability. Her attention to detail, such as the incorporation of 22K gold luster, can be appreciated in her current pieces. With over 20 years of experience and at least 150 shows across the country, Barrett and her husband have decided to stay close to home this year and not go on the road. However, she wouldn’t pass up the opportunity to participate in WinterArts.

“These works of art are unique and entirely handmade with nothing imported.

They are also signed by the artist. There will be holiday-related gifts to choose from based upon the artist’s medium. For example, I create glass ornaments, such as icicles and snowmen. I have customers that return each year requesting the year or someone’s name placed on that year’s design. Plus, I think customers will find affordable smaller pieces that are not typically found in gallery shows.”

Belz believes the show brings a whole different aspect to gift giving.

“Functional art makes a great gift, because it also shows the inventiveness and thoughtfulness of the giver.”

WinterArts

The Shops of Saddle Creek (North, near the Apple Store) 7605 West Farmington in Germantown, Tenn.

Open daily through December 24, 2014 www.winterartsmemphis.com DeSoto 27

exploring books } christmas stories from mississippi

28 DeSoto

Judy H. Tucker and Charline R. McCord

A Word on

Christmas

By Mary Ann DeSantis. Photography courtesy of Judy H. Tucker and Charline R. McCord

W

When Charline McCord and Judy H. Tucker met in 1996 as volunteers at the Eudora Welty Festival, they had no idea their friendship would result in a popular book of Christmas stories and essays by Mississippi’s literary elite.

Their partnership led to eight more books featuring the South’s bountiful history of storytelling, but it is their first book, “Christmas Stories from Mississippi”, that continues to

be a holiday classic for readers who appreciate the state’s rich literary roots.

The book began as a way to showcase McCord and Tucker’s own writings but evolved into compilation of 17 works by esteemed writers Eudora Welty, William Faulkner, Willie Morris, Barry Hannah, Ellen Gilchrist, Elizabeth Spencer, Carolyn Haines, and others. Originally printed in DeSoto 29

2001, the book is now in its fifth printing and has become one of University Press of Mississippi’s most successful titles.

“The idea grew out of a writers group, but University Press initially rejected it,” remembered McCord. “We came back to them with the idea to include holiday stories from Mississippi’s best and most wellknown writers.”

McCord was friends with Wyatt Waters, one of the state’s best known watercolor artists, and he signed on to illustrate the stories as well as the cover.

“The illustrations by Wyatt Waters are probably one of the reasons this book sold so well,” said Tucker.

The women used their advance payment from the publisher to secure rights and permissions to use the stories, which include a passage from William Faulkner’s book, “Light in August”, and Eudora Welty’s short story, “A Worn Path.” The book is not filled with “Chicken Soup for the Soul” kinds of happy endings, but rather realistic — and sometimes sad — portrayals of life.

“I am a huge fan of Faulkner, and I think we used enough of his story to make readers wonder what happened to the little boy named Joseph Christmas,” said Tucker, who lives in Jackson, Miss.

In Faulkner’s story, the boy was abandoned at an orphanage on Christmas Day. He was later adopted by a harsh, stern man whose first order of business was to change the child’s name.

The stories are often laced with humor, such as McCord’s own contribution, “Home for Christmas” about a daughter and her elderly mother’s road trip to see family near Jackson, Tenn. Readers who have traveled with an elderly, often stubborn parent can certainly identify with the emotions that the protagonist Janice experienced.

“When you read authors from a literary vein, you are used to those kinds of stories,” McCord explained. “As soon as you digest them, you realize that really is life.”

For the book, Tucker wrote the piece, “Clara’s Star,” a poignant story that reflects Mississippi’s Choctaw Indian history and brings together a family with mixed heritage.

The women have co-edited a series of books that contain stories and essays about the South, including “Christmas Memories from Mississippi”, “Coming 30 DeSoto

Home to Mississippi, A Dixie Christmas”, and “A Very Southern Christmas”. Their current project, “A Year in Mississippi”, will feature 40 stories about events, grouped by season, that take place throughout the state and have endured the test of time. The book is scheduled for release by December 2015.

“The idea behind all of our books is to showcase Mississippi,” said Tucker, who is also a playwright. “This new one shows how the state has become multicultural and how events, festivals and reunions, bring together many societies.”

As successful as their subsequent books have been, “Christmas Stories from Mississippi” continues to be the hottest seller with nearly 20,000 copies already sold. The characters’ experiences in the book resonate with readers who understand that Southern families often have a unique perspective on holidays.

“Last year, we were scheduled to sign books for two hours at the Mistletoe Marketplace,” said McCord, who lives in Clinton. “We were there all day without moving from our table. People were lined up for “Christmas Stories from Mississippi”, which has set the tone for everything that followed. We can never forget the excitement and success of that first book.”

“The idea behind all of our books is to showcase Mississippi,” This new one shows how the state has become multicultural and how events, festivals and reunions, bring together many societies.”

About the Book Charline R. McCord & Judy H. Tucker, Editors.

Wyatt Waters, Illustrator.

“Christmas Stories in Mississippi”, from University Press of Mississippi, 2001.

DeSoto 31

exploring cuisine } cherries

Chocolate covered cherries

32 DeSoto

Cherry Granola Cookies

Have Yourself a

Cherry Little Christmas

By Ann N. Yungmeyer Photography courtesy of fullyraw.com and 365daysofbakingandmore.com

Even when holiday traditions call for fruitcake or figgy pudding, the family cook may see red. Lots of little round reds, as in cherry red.

As it turns out, red is actually the color to consume for good health, no matter what the season.

Among various crimson-colored fruits and veggies packed with nutrients and topping the healthy foods lists, the cherry is a standout. The black sweet cherry, or “Bing cherry,” is very popular; yet, tart cherries, namely the Montmorency variety, are considered even more nutritious and accounts for the majority of tart cherries produced in the U.S.

Nutritionists recognize cherries as a good source of fiber because of their skins, as well as a source of potassium, vitamin A and vitamin C. And the cherry has been touted as the healing fruit because of ongoing scientific studies that have found 17 compounds with antioxidant properties in tart cherries.

DeSoto 33

Cherry Cheesecake

“Tart cherries, specifically the Montmorency variety, contain an extremely significant quantity of melatonin, enough to produce positive results in the body,” said Dr. Russel Reiter, professor of neuroendocrinology at University of Texas in San Antonio.

Countless occasions to enjoy cherries throughout the holidays and any time of year exist. Dried cherries are a great addition to trail mix, cereals and cookies. Although it seems unlikely, holiday stuffing and cherries make good partners.

Traditional cherry pie is always a hit, but consider some other cherry ideas to brighten your holiday table: ‘Tis the season for baking, so think cherry scones, breads and muffins, or add cherries to homemade granola. Top your French toast and pancakes with cherry sauce or combine rich red cherries and Granny Smith apples in a mixed green salad. For a festive drink, skip the limeade and turn your margarita red with cherry juice. A cherry mimosa can make any morning bright. For a decadent indulgence, dark chocolate-covered cherries with a glass of red wine may seem rather indulgent but offers triple benefits.

34 DeSoto

Where to find tart cherries? You can’t go wrong by going right to the source where the majority of tart cherries are produced in the upper Midwest. As far back as the 1950s, the largest Montmorency crop was grown in Door County, Wisconsin, with more than one million cherry trees producing the red fruit. Michigan now ranks number one as the tart cherry producer in the U.S.

The season for fresh tart cherries is short, only a few weeks during summer; however, dried, canned and frozen cherries and juice are available year round. Tart cherry products can be found in some big box grocery departments and specialty food markets, or you can easily order online from Door County cherry orchards and other regional markets.

If the revelers come caroling, “O bring us some figgy pudding,” it’s good to know that cookbook author Dorie Greenspan includes dried cherries in her figgy pudding recipe, touting it as “chockablock with dried fruits; it’s so boozy...”

So whatever you bring to the holiday feast, be sure to bring it with a cherry on top.

The “Healing Fruit” Research at University of Texas Health Science Center has shown that tart cherries contain melatonin, which functions as an antioxidant to help the body destroy free radicals. Recent studies indicate that tart cherry juice may help improve the quality and duration of sleep, and it is believed that the combination of melatonin and other antioxidants in tart cherries provide myriad health benefits. Michigan State University researchers have found that tart cherries contain anthocyanins, which potentially reduce inflammation and pain and may provide relief to arthritis, gout and fibromyalgia sufferers. For more information on the research and health benefits of cherries, visit www.choosecherries.com.

Cherry Holiday Gift Ideas: For chocolate lovers: Chocolate Dried Cherries from Orchard Country Winery and Market. One lb., $13.95. www.orchardcountry.com For cheesecake lovers: A decadent Cherry Cheesecake from Carol’s Cheesecakes.

8-inch, $28.95. (Carol also makes cherry scones).www.facebook.com/carolscheesecake For the breakfast cook: Door County Delights Gift Box – Sampling of cherry jam, cherry pancake mix, dried cherries, chocolate cherries and gourmet coffee. $19.95. www.orchardcountry.com For foodies: Savory Spoon’s Panforte – a famous confection from the 15th Century originating in Siena, Italy – made with Door County cherries. $20.99. www. savoryspoonpanforte.com

For the coffee connoisseur: Cherry Creme Coffee made from superior roast, specialty Class 1 Arabica coffee beans from Door County Coffee and Tea Co. $9.50 per 10 oz. bag. www.doorcountycoffee.com

For the Kosher sweet tooth: Dinstuhl’s Chocolate Cherries – sweet cherries hand rolled in fondant and covered in milk or dark chocolate. One lb., $27.50. www.dinstuhls.com

DeSoto 35

exploring destinations } holidays in the smokies

36 DeSoto

Holidays on High

By George Brown. Photography courtesy of George Brown

Combine crisp mountain air with millions of sparkling lights, carols, confections and even a roller coaster, and the result is Christmas in the Smokies.

From the beginning of November to the New Year, East Tennessee comes alive with the sights and sounds of Christmas. Starting in Sevierville and stretching through Pigeon Forge and up the mountain to Gatlinburg, endless celebrations and events will rekindle an old memory or create a new one.

DeSoto 37

Dollywood makes sure the true meaning of Christmas isn’t lost. A living nativity and numerous live shows celebrate the season, family, and love for all mankind. Set in an 1800s mountain town, Dolly Parton’s park features thrill rides alongside craftsmen blowing glass, forging and keeping old traditions alive. Kids will love dipping candles and riding a coal-fired train up the mountain while taking part in a sing-along. The scents of kettle corn or fresh cinnamon bread fill the mountain air and millions of beautiful lights, many encasing trees from trunk to top, require the decorating start in July.

“It’s funny because you’ll see pumpkins and harvest decorations going out and elves and Santa Clauses going in. It’s a fun thing to watch. It takes a lot of hard work and dedication from our employees to make it happen,” said Wes Ramey with Dollywood. The park even features a beautiful chapel where services are held. At the Heartsong Theatre, Dolly herself gives tours of the place she grew up. As the day comes to a close, the Carol of the Trees amazes with its synchronized display of music and lighted trees.

If crafts and one-of-a-kind gifts are on the list, discover the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community in Pigeon Forge.

On the eight-mile loop, hand-thrown pottery, stained glass and hand carved treasures fill the landscape.

Reserve some time one night to drive from Sevierville to Gatlinburg and see not only beautiful Christmas lights, but winter scenes, such as animated reindeer flying over the road and polar bears throwing snowballs. Kids will love the 12 Days of Christmas display spread throughout Pigeon Forge.

38 DeSoto

At Patriot Park, Christmas displays remind of the sacrifices our veterans have made over the years. Be sure to also visit Christmas Place, featuring thousands of square feet of Christmas decorations. From ornaments made just for little ones to collectibles, this store has it all including a Christmas themed hotel.

A visit wouldn’t be complete without a visit to one of the many theatres in the area, most of which will feature a Christmas theme. The “Hatfield and McCoy Christmas Disaster Dinner Show” revolves around a crooked mayor plotting to steal the land belonging to the feuding families and develop time share property. “When the two families discover his plans they drop their feud and band together to do a “Scrooge” number on him,” said Deborah Newsom Fee. Like the Hatfield and McCoy show, Dolly’s Dixie Stampede and Biblical Times feature dinner and a family-friendly show. If you want to dine on your own, check out the Comedy Barn which will keep you laughing, or The Wonders of Magic, which will keep you guessing.

Twenty minutes up the mountain from Pigeon Forge in Gatlinburg, a rustic Bavarian Village slams head on into modern tourist trap. Overlooking the town is Ober Gatlinburg featuring ice skating, a small zoo, snow skiing and tubing. Ripley’s Believe It Or Not Aquarium of the Smokies offers a great penguin exhibit as well as a petting pool for rays and an interactive kids area. The 39th annual Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade will be held December 5 at 7:30 p.m. featuring Santa and often a member of the Dukes of Hazard cast just for that unique

Gatlinburg feel.

Cades Cove in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park fits the bill for anyone interested in observing the natural, quiet side of the season. The 11-mile loop provides great views of nature and interesting historic sites.

While there aren’t many fancy places to stay in the region, clean rooms and friendly faces abound. Rooms at many locations start as low as $39 and can top $100 per night. If you can spend a little more, check out the Wilderness at the Smokies resort, which features an indoor water park and even the chance to swim with Santa.

Tips for Traveling in the Smoky Mountains Traffic can be heavy, so plan your stops ahead of time.

Book hotels early.

Pack warm, winter clothsalways a chance of snow!

On mountain roads, pull over as far as possible to allow traffic to pass.

DeSoto 39

C ol lierville, Tenn 9:00 Located on the historic square, locall y-ow place to start the day. C offee and quiche or ned Square Beans is the perfect a pastry hit the sp ot.

10:00 Shopping on the square in C oll ier vil le off B oots, gifts, clothing, ant iques, home accessor ers somet hing for everyone. ies and more.

12:00 Lunch at Si lver Caboo se. So many wond cluding homemade egg salad, piment o cheese anerful opt ions to cho ose from inare prepared from scratch and cooked to order. d chicken salad. Al l the dishes

1:00 Strol l over to the old train depot. Take a through the caboo se or execut ive train car. To Civil War walki ng tour, walk visit Mort on Museum of C oll ier vil le Hi st ory. learn more about the rich her itage The museum houses permanent and changing exhibits.

3:00 Po p int o City Hall Cheesecake for a de lic Can be purchased by the slice or whole. Po pular ious slice of homemade cheesecake. chocol ate peanut butter and turt le. Addit ional choices inc lude cookies-n-cream, the weat her is nice grab a bench in C onfedera f lav ors are added each week. If te Park in the center of the square and rel ax.

4:00 Take a short dr ive do wn Po plar to the Sh is home to over 360 dealers in a 78,000 square ef fie ld Antiques Mall. The mall fur nit ure, vintage clothing, jewelr y, decorat ive foot space fil led wit h painted accessor ies and col lectibles.

6:00 Enjoy an authent ic Italian dinner at Gr Antiques. The fami ly ser ves up wonderful Nortisanti’s, located inside Shef fie ld raviol i, lasagna al for no, eggplant parmesan an her n Italian dishes like handmade d manic ott i.

40 DeSoto

DeSoto 41

42 DeSoto

Steeped in history and well-versed in progress, Collierville promises a memorable experience!

Whether you’re looking for a unique shopping and dining destination, a one-of-a-kind special event or a weekend getaway, we are thrilled to have you as our guest.

Complementing the metropolitan lifestyle of its neighboring Memphis, Collierville offers a relaxing escape, enticing visitors to spend the afternoon or stay for a while.

It’s no surprise that this charming, historic town won Parade Magazine’s “America’s Best Main Street” contest earlier this year. Some of the events not to miss: Fair on The Square, Sunset on the Square Summer Concert Series and the beautiful holiday lights. collierville.com mainstreetcollierville.org colliervillechamber.com colliervillemuseum.org silvercaboose.com cityhallcheesecake.com sheffield-antiques.com ronniegrisantis.com DeSoto 43

44 DeSoto

greater goods } holiday table

Casafina dinnerware “Deer Friends” pattern Starting at $13.95 The Other Side Gifts 122 Norfleet Drive Senatobia, MS 662-562-7349

Holiday Table

M Bagwelll Trays Set of 2 - $68 Mimi’s on Main 432 Main Street Senatobia, MS 662-562-8261

Old St. Nick Platter Vietri - $167 The Other Side Gifts 122 Norfleet Drive Senatobia, MS 662-562-7349

Old St. Nick Pitcher and Butter Dish Vietri - $102- $70 The Merry Magnolia 194 Military Road Marion, AR 870-739-5579

Dana t Trivet $24 Mimi’s on Main 432 Main Street Senatobia, MS 662-562-8261

DeSoto 45

greater goods } new year’s eve

New Year’s Eve Free People Barbary Boot $248 Kaleidoscope 2305 Jackson Ave W, Suite 201 Oxford, MS 662-234-6722

Lynn Ritchie top $130 Necklace - $60 Upstairs Closet 136 Norfleet Drive Senatobia, MS 662-562-4294

Segura Viudas Spanish Champaign $22.49 Cork & Barrel 2631 McIngvale Rd Hernando, MS 662-469-9081

Studded Shorts Umgee $34 Upstairs Closet 136 Norfleet Drive Senatobia, MS 662-562-4294

Authur Court Toasting Glasses $35 each Bon Von Gift Shop 214 W Center St. Hernando, MS 662-429-5266

46 DeSoto

Radzoli top $72 Upstairs Closet 136 Norfleet Drive Senatobia, MS 662-562-4294

Sugarlips Wine Lace Dress $72 Kelly Wynne Halo purse (in Black Gold Scale) $355 The Pink Zinnia 134 W Commerce St. Hernando, MS 662-449-5533

Cakebread Cellars wine $27 to $54 The Wine Cellar 5218 Goodman Road, Suite 105 Olive Branch, MS 662-895-9463

Millefiore Bottle Stopper $13.75 Cynthia’s Boutique 2529 Caffey St Hernando, MS 662-469-9026

Triangle Bead Bags $24 Cynthia’s Boutique 2529 Caffey St Hernando, MS 662-469-9026

DeSoto 47

48 DeSoto

A Canton Christmas

By Judy Smith. Photography courtesy of Canton CVB

A slight chill in the air mixes with the joyful laughter of happy children and families at play. Twinkling fairy lights guide the way to a winter wonderland filled with magic and wonder.

The click of horse hooves rings out as the stallions pull a Victorian carriage filled with rosy-cheeked guests enamored with holiday finery and splendor adorning the historic town square. No, it’s not an excerpt of that fabled Christmas tale from Charles Dickens or a scene from

a beloved black and white holiday classic movie. This setting can be found in the charming town of Canton, Mississippi, and once again, guests and visitors are invited to take a magical journey to this enchanting celebration of the Christmas season.

DeSoto 49

Christmas once again comes to Canton with its very fun and elegant “Victorian Christmas Festival,” and spending some time in Mississippi’s original “City of Lights” during this most wonderful time of the year is a must for every family. The Festival runs from November 28 through December 23.

“This is as close as many of us will come to magic, and it is so enjoyable to see the excitement in the children’s eyes and the many generations of families that continue to visit us year after year,” Jana Padgett of the Canton Convention & Visitor’s Bureau said. “It’s a great way to get you into the holiday spirit as you take in the sights, sounds, and smells of the Christmas season.”

It is a sentiment echoed across Canton.

“It is truly a joy to watch the wonder and amazement on the faces of the children and the families when they come to visit our town,” Jo Ann Gordon, executive director of the Canton Convention & Visitor’s Bureau & Film office, said. “To be a part of that experience is truly priceless and such a joy for us. I can’t think of a better way to kick off the holiday season.”

Technically, Gordon and Padgett, are the masterminds and main creative team when it comes to putting this festival together year after year, but it seems that they enjoy the event just as much as their visitors and wouldn’t trade a minute of the tremendous workload that comes with creating this charming winter wonderland.

Each year, the ladies try to bring a little something different to keep the interest and excitement anew for all guests; but, a few things always stay the same. It’s those traditions that so many look forward to each year. A major centerpiece of the 50 DeSoto

festival is the Canton Animation Museums which offers a look into the history of Canton while bringing a heavy helping of Christmas with all the trimmings. The magical display began as 22 antique window displays but has grown to include over 130 life-size animated figures that help spread a little bit of Christmas cheer--the special blend that only Canton can bring.

The centerpiece for this enchanting winter fairyland is the beautiful Historic Courthouse Square and nearby gazebo which are bejeweled with thousands of sparkling lights and Christmas adornments. Christmas trees all aglow and glittering lights line the square, setting the scene for the perfect holiday. “Lots of families come back year after year and take their Christmas card pictures here at the festival,” Gordon said. “That’s always so special to see.”

There’s also another pretty famous photo locale. The man of the moment, Santa Claus himself, is on hand to take pictures and hear that very special Christmas wish. And you just might see Mrs. Claus and a few other special guests at the nighttime Christmas parade or when you take a spin on the whimsical carousel that is sure to put you in the holiday spirit.

The festival continues to grow each year and shows no signs of slowing down. “The first year we had maybe 100 people, and that has grown to about 50,000 guests that come to visit us throughout the month,” Gordon said. “It has grown by leaps and bounds.”

Opening during the Thanksgiving weekend, guests, visitors, shoppers, and everyone is cordially invited to the Open House November 28-30. Shops in downtown will be open later, offering special shopping deals to help you get a jump on that

Christmas list, refreshments will be served, wonderful products will be on display and for sale, and there’s sure to be lots of warm, welcoming hospitality from shop owners and employees.

Alice Jean Watts of Noble-Watts Jewelers admits that the Open House is one of her favorite weekends of the year.

Watts’ father opened the business 65 years ago, and the shop has been a part of the festivities ever since the festival began.

“It’s always a wonderful time to get to meet our customers and the community that has so supportive of us throughout the years,” Watts said. “We feel so blessed to be a part of Canton, and this is just a great way to connect with our guests and customers from all over.”

At Noble-Watts Jeweler s, customers are treated with a warm welcome--more like family than shoppers, and Watts and company have a few extra special surprises for their guests once again with discounts during the Open House event, refreshments, and so much more.

“That is one of our craziest but most fun weekends,” Watts said. “We get to meet new people and see a lot that never get to come home except during the holidays.”

Erin Noble of Sulm’s Gifts has served the Canton community for 29 Christmases, helping shoppers find just the right gift for that someone special. Noble offers jewelry, clothing, candles, lots of Mississippi Made products, and so much more, and this year, she will be offering some special treasures for the holiday season. The famed courthouse and gazebo, aglow with Christmas finery, will grace candles and ornaments.

“We try to offer something unique and special to the community that continues to offer us nonstop support,” Noble said. “It means so much to be a part of the holidays for so many people, especially the good people of Canton, and we will never take that honor for granted.”

Christmas in Canton has become a tradition for many families and has played a major role in many cherished holiday memories. “It truly is a very special time of year, but it wouldn’t be possible without the ladies at the Canton Convention and Visitors Bureau,” Watts said. “They do a tremendous job of transforming our little town into a sparkling, magical world.”

Gordon loves to look out on the square each year and see all the smiling DeSoto 51

faces amid the twinkling lights. “The festival has been a popular place for men to propose to their sweethearts, but I’ll never forget one night we saw five different men down on their knees proposing,” Padgett said. “That was truly a sight to behold, and it was a special moment for us to be a small part of that major event for so many people.”

This year, make sure the long to-do list includes the Victorian Christmas Festival.

“The only way I can describe the festival is it seems like you’ve stepped inside a Norman Rockwell painting with all the families enjoying their time together just loving being with each other as they take in all the gorgeous Christmas decorations and lights,” Noble said. “The world seems to slow down, and it really is a magical time for us all.”

Make Holiday Memories in Canton Christmas Animation Museums--Admission (includes all animation museums) $4.00 Children’s Carousel and Vintage Car Rides--$2.00 per ride Merchants’ Open House Weekend--First weekend only 8th Annual “Sip ‘n Cider”--December 12 (Vote for your favorite version of this Christmas drink from participating merchants.)

The Railroad Comes to Canton--Enjoy the historical model exhibits of the Illinois Central passenger trains that ran from the 1900s to the 1970s.

Horse and Buggy Rides through this Winter Wonderland

www.cantontourism.com 52 DeSoto

DeSoto 53

54 DeSoto

from f rench c ountry to a merican c owboy Designer Boni Lee McCullar creates seamless styles

By Karen Ott Mayer. Photography courtesy of Boni Lee McCullar

It is a rare talent that can move between different worlds, creating two environments uniquely authentic.

When Boni Lee McCullar moved from her French country home in Memphis to a ranch in a lonely Texas landscape with her husband Meredith, she relied upon her rich set of creative design skills to build a new home and forge a rural life.

“This home is dedicated to ranch life,” she said.

But moving between worlds has never appeared to be difficult for McCullar whose creative ventures read like a playbill.

Her first artistic pursuit came right after high school when she studied silk painting with a Japanese artist. “It was my real introduction to the arts,” said McCullar.

DeSoto 55

McCullar, studying design at the University of Memphis in 1997, answered a radio show contest winning the chance to stay in Martha Stewart’s home and study with the artistic icon for a week.

Despite having to regularly cook for her family when she was young, McCullar nonetheless developed an interest in the culinary arts as an adult. Once again, she had the chance to work for four days with Julia Child and the experience sparked an incredible passion for learning.

“I took every class I could find!”

Following her graduation in 1998, McCullar went on to work with the William R. Eubanks Interior Design firm, working directly with Eubanks for six years as his showroom director and designer. It was during those years, McCullar absorbed European arts and antique design.

Soon, she opened her own design firm, BL Designs but fate would take her in another direction, yet again.

56 DeSoto

“While at the Peabody, I met Jose Gutierrez, the awardwinning chef. He was looking for a pastry chef immediately because his person had left,” said McCullar. She ended up working briefly with Gutierrez, leaving in 2000 when she met and married her husband, Meredith.

Together, they designed the Memphis home on a napkin during dinner, taking another three years until dreams became reality. The home has been featured in Veranda magazine, as well as having been named “House of the Year”

by At Home in Tennessee magazine.

While both McCullars are from Memphis, his father always had cattle and horses, participating in rodeos all over Texas and raising cutting horses. Soon, it became apparent the McCullars would leave Memphis for the Lone Star state.

“It was a heartache when we had to leave the home behind,” says McCullar. Change, however, had never intimidated McCullar and she viewed her new home as yet

DeSoto 57

58 DeSoto

another creative challenge.

From the start, the Texas home had to accommodate the cowboy lifestyle.

“I acted as the architect and we wanted the home to be a U-shaped design like many of the ranch houses in this area.”

The home, located approximately 45 minutes from Abilene, blends seamlessly into the land where mesas and big views define the landscape. Originally 3,000 acres, the ranch today consists of several hundred acres in a county where only 14 families own land.

The U-shaped quarried stone house boasts a wide porch where soaking up endless views is the resident past time.

“The front porch faces North where we can watch the sunsets, sunrise, and the storms coming in,” said McCullar. It was extremely important the home blend into the landscape. “The original home on the ranch is a 100 years old and we replicated the design,” said McCullar.

Unlike her Memphis home where French influences and formality reigned, the Texas home focuses on natural materials and neutral tones. The 12-foot ceilings and bank of windows create a rustic, open interior space that feels like it could be outdoors. Having grown up in the construction and building industries, McCullar felt confident she could design the home herself. “We visited the Stockyards in Fort Worth and I replicated some of the elements found there.” McCullar incorporated other architectural features like dormer windows, lots of iron work, and dark mahogany wood. A practical size at 3,500 square feet, the home is all on one level. “It just blends with the land,” said McCullar.

With the move came tradeoffs.

The Memphis home afforded separate bathrooms for the couple and larger closets.

“If I had to change one thing about his house, I would have a bigger closet!” said McCullar, with a laugh.

If Memphis is all green and filled with boxwoods, Texas is all wild and rocks.

The landscape surrounding the home remains natural and un-tailored. Life assumes a limitless form.

“Our locks on the doors are bandanas. Time is not an element down here,” said McCullar. For a creative spirit, the landscape truly drives the feel of endless possibilities. “The vistas, the tranquility, the views…we give ourselves permission to DeSoto 59

enjoy it.” A city girl at heart, McCullar doesn’t entirely wax poetic when it comes to talking about the lifestyle change.

“I wasn’t sure at first but it’s grown on me. It’s all open brilliance during the day, but it can get kind of spooky at night!” In the early years, the couple traveled the country with cutting horses, and often, the ranch housed guests and cowboys.

Seventeen years later, the ranch is quieter since the couple retired from the horse business. As a commercial developer, Meredith McCullar maintains strong ties in Memphis through projects and work. “While we were building the house, I stayed out here and he traveled back and forth,” said McCullar.

When talking about innate creativity, McCullar believes design offers the artistic soul a place to flourish. “I think of my experiences as all these little wells from which I can draw. As a designer, you can have 10 properties you’re working on.

You can walk away, step back, and get perspective. Working with a client who likes a design is like Christmas morning and you’ve given your child the perfect gift.” Her life’s journey has been marked by decisions along the way that have added another layer of skills to her tool bag. Whether designing for clients or herself, she believes freedom from restraint is key.

“What others think about you is irrelevant. It’s OK to be who you are through the creative process.”

60 DeSoto

“What others think about you is irrelevant.

It’s OK to be who you are through

the creative process.”

Boni Lee McCullar

Boni Lee McCullar

DeSoto 61

Traditional Mexican ponche

62 DeSoto

feliz navidad

By Andrea Ross Brown. Photography courtesy of Celia Garcia and themijachronicles.com

Many people comment that Christmas seems to come earlier each year. Indeed, it sometimes seems that as soon as July 4th flags are taken down, retailers are putting up Christmas trees and artificial snow in their stores. So what exactly constitutes the holiday season these days?

If we can turn our heads away from the commercialism and focus on the rich cultural and spiritual traditions surrounding holidays, the season takes on deeper meaning. For Mexican Americans, who now number 54 million or 17 percent of the U.S. population, their celebrations begin in December and last into February.

Posada Navidenas – December 16th

In Spanish, posada, means inn or lodge. As Christmas draws near, the term posadas represents a celebration, as May Herz of inside-mexico.com explains.

“The first of nine posadas is held on December 16th.

These are fiestas, which represent Joseph and Mary’s arduous DeSoto 63

Tamales

pilgrimage on their way to Bethlehem. There are nine posadas, from December 16th through December 24th, because they symbolize Mary’s nine months of pregnancy.”

“The whole community is organized for the posadas.

Beforehand they decide which and how many houses will not offer a place where Mary and Joseph can stay, and where they will finally find shelter, and break the piñata. The community also decides how many posadas they will have. Some only hold one or two of them during the season,” says Herz.

She described how the posada begins.

“The posada begins with the procession of the pilgrims. At the head is Joseph, holding Mary’s hand as she rides on the donkey. Sometimes, instead of having someone dress up as Mary and Joseph, a couple of neighbors carry a nativity scene. Following them are all the neighbors, carrying candles and singing traditional songs to ask for posada, a place where they can stay. At the end of the trip through the streets of the neighborhood they reach their final destination. Doors open and the big party begins!

Celia Garcia, manager of El Rio Mexican Restaurant in Como, Miss. explained how a posada unfolds in the states.

“People usually put out the nativity in their home during this time. The family has their (Catholic) religion in their hearts, and they begin to turn their thoughts to Christ’s birth.”

Piñata

While many Americans are familiar with a piñata and the many shapes and characters, the original piñata was 64 DeSoto

created as a symbol for Spanish Franciscan monks to teach indigenous people about sin. According to Oscar Guzman, of inside-mexico.com, this popular party activity was used as a teaching tool.

“They designed a huge ceramic pot covered with colored paper in the shape of a star, where each one of the points represented one of the seven deadly sins. You had to hit it hard, overcome the temptation, and put all your attention into getting rid of evil. Sin blinds us with a blindfold, and our family and friends and others who surround us are the ones who have to guide us in order to break the chain of evil. When someone is well guided, the piñata is broken! Then, from heaven, we are showered with gifts...fruit, candy, toys, immense happiness that fills us with joy. “

“The piñata is still looked forward to as part of the celebration with family and friends,” said Garcia, who opts for the traditional piñata at Christmas.

Noche Buena, Dec. 24th

Herz describes a typical Christmas Eve in Mexico, or Noche Buena.

“It is celebrated on December 24th. This is essentially a family day, which begins with the last posada and ends with a delicious, sumptuous dinner. After dinner, the adults exchange presents. At midnight there are masses that are called Misa de Gallo. “

Since chimneys are not common, children usually do not hang stockings.

DeSoto 65

Buñelos

“In addition, gifts are placed in front the nativity as opposed to a Christmas tree,” said Garcia. The baby Jesus is added to the nativity that evening as well.

Garcia elaborates on some of the traditional culinary favorites during this season.

“Tamales, buñelos and ponches are popular. Most Americans are familiar with tamales made with meat and cheeses wrapped in husks.”

Buñelos are sometimes referred to as sweet fritters. Traditionally handmade by the women, they are very thin, wrapped around a pan, and fried.

“T his is a handheld treat.

Everybody uses their hands, no utensils.

They can have cinnamon and sugar sprinkled on both sides. One can find the ingredients at a Mexican grocery store in the states. They can also be purchased pre-packaged, but they are not as good as homemade,” said Garcia.

Like so many culinary dishes, the chef has a lot to do with the taste.

“ My buñelos are good, but my mother’s buñelos are very, very good,” said Garcia.

Ponches Navideño is considered a Christmas fruit punch that may be served with or without alcohol. According to Garcia, the ingredients for ponches may be altered to taste preferences, including preference of alcohol, such as tequila or brandy.

“After boiling water with sugar, fruits are added in, along with cinnamon.

Sliced apples, oranges, guava, tejecote, and tamarindo are added, as well as, sliced sugar cane. It is served warm.”

66 DeSoto

Children awake Christmas morning to see what Santa has brought them. Herz said the gift exchange on December 25th is something that has only been practiced within the Mexican culture for approximately the last 50 years.

Dia de los Reyes Magos, Jan. 6th

Traditionally, gift exchanges occur on January 6th, on the Day of the Three Kings. “All Mexican children anxiously wait this date, because this is when the Three Kings, Los Reyes Magos, arrive with gifts for them. A few days before, the children write their letters asking the Kings for the toys they want the most. Accompanied by their family, they go to the town’s plaza or zócalo, to send their letters, attached to multicolored balloons that float up taking their wish list with them,” said Herz

In some cases, Mexican and American traditions blend.

“In the United States, Santa Claus brings the toys and gifts for our children, but we still observe Dia de los Reyes Magos.

The children leave their shoes out for the three kings to place money in. It’s not a lot of money placed in their shoes, but enough to be excited about waking up that morning and finding it,” said Garcia.

“In the afternoon, family and friends gather to share the “Rosca de Reyes”, which is a traditional wreathshaped bread that is made only during the first days of January,” said Herz.

Inside the bread is a figurine of the baby Jesus. Whomever gets the slice with the figurine inside is then expected to invite everyone to a party on February 2nd, Candelaria Day.

Candelaria Day, Feb. 2nd

On this day, the various baby Jesus figurines are taken to the local churches to be blessed. Nativity scenes will then be taken down and stored until the next Christmas season.

“We observe Candelaria Day here in the states,” said Garcia.

To learn more about holiday traditions in Mexico, visit www.inside-mexico.com.

The Garcia family will be offering samples of traditional holiday cuisine and drinks to customers during Christmas in Como, Saturday December 13th, from 12 -5pm at El Rio. DeSoto 67

68 DeSoto

Mitchell’s desk

Frankly, Scarlett...

We Do Give a Damn The Gone with the Wind Trail

By Lazelle Jones. Photography courtesy of The Gone with the Wind Trail

It goes without saying that Clark Gable’s dashing character Rhett Butler had enough of Scarlett of O’Hara, played by his co-star Vivian Leigh, as he uttered those still resounding words, “Frankly, my dear, I don’t give a damn” as he turned and walked out the door at the end of the epic movie Gone with the Wind.

DeSoto 69

Mythical plantation Tara

While Butler perhaps threw in the towel, nothing could be further from reality when the film premiered at the Lowe’s Grand Theater on Peachtree Street in Atlanta, as the public certainly showed they did care.

Premiering on December 14, 1939, the opening drew an estimated one million visitors who wanted to be a part of the celebration in Atlanta. Today, 75 years after that gala opening people from around the world continue to come, wanting to see the venues associated with the writing of Margaret Mitchell’s Pulitzer Prize winning novel by the same name and the making of the movie. Ironically, Mitchell like Harper Lee, vowed she would never again write another novel. Decades later, curiosity seekers still want to experience for themselves the culture and human side that underlies this epic story. Simply put, after three quarters of a century the celebration of the premier of the movie Gone with the Wind continues.

The folks in the greater Atlanta area responsible for doing such things have creatively put together what is called the Gone with the Wind Trail. Visitors move from one location on the trail to the next following a map. All stops are associated either with Margaret Mitchell’s life, the writing of her only novel or the making of the movie that won 10 Academy Awards in 1940. Each stop on the Gone with the Wind Trail stands alone as an attraction, so the stops identified on the 70 DeSoto

map can be divvied up to fit particular interests and individual schedules. All five stops are within easy driving distance of one another.

The Gone with the Wind Trail

The Trail begins just north of Atlanta in downtown Marietta at Scarlett on the Square, where The Marietta Gone with the Wind Museum, www.gwtwmarietta.com, is located.

Housed in the historic Old Thomas Warehouse is a huge collection of original Gone with the Wind memorabilia that includes the bengaline gown worn by Scarlett O’Hara (Vivien Leigh).

On Crescent Avenue in Atlanta is the Margaret Mitchell House, the birthplace of Gone with the Wind, www. margaretmitchellhouse.com. Tours of the apartment where Mitchell penned her novel are hosted and visitors can view exhibits that detail her life, the making of the movie, and original props.

At the Central Library in downtown Atlanta, the special collections department houses an exhibit of some 1,500 personal items and photographs: Margret Mitchell’s Pulitzer Prize; the typewriter she used to write her novel; the volumes of books Mitchell used to research the story, as well as Margret Mitchell’s original library card.

DeSoto 71

In the downtown area, among the botanical and sculpture gardens, and the wildlife habitat in Historic Oakland Cemetery, www.OaklandCemetery.com, is Margaret Mitchell’s final resting place, her life cut short by an automobile accident in 1949. Parking can be found just outside of Oakland Cemetery’s gate.

Fifteen miles south of Atlanta in the town of Jonesboro is the Road to Tara Museum, www.VisitScarlett.com. Tara was the mythical plantation in Gone with the Wind that the character Scarlett O’Hara pledged to restore to its former glory following the Civil War. The museum features original movie props, wardrobe items, manuscripts, and an extensive photo gallery associated with the making and the premier of the movie. Public parking is available across the street from the museum.

Not noted on the map but none the less an important stop to be made while in Jonesboro is Stately Oaks Plantation, for this is the home that the mythical plantation Tara was modeled after. Built in 1839, Stately Oaks Plantation lets visitors 72 DeSoto

explore the grandeur and architecture associated with this romantically perceived Southern era. It’s one of the places that survived the Battle of Atlanta. Docents lead tours through the mansion, while the original out buildings are left to be explored at the visitor’s leisure.

An opportunity that should not be missed while here is the Blue Willow Inn, www.bluewillowinn.com, located in the town of Social Circle. Here “downhome buffet-style” cookin’ is taken to a whole new level. Not only are the sweet potato pie, southern fried chicken, collard greens and a dozen other entrées served in copious amounts, but this is also the home where Margaret Mitchell and her first husband would come to get-away for the weekend.

Following the Gone with the Wind Trail can be an adventure back in time. Even if that Southern era is long gone, the talents of one writer continue to fascinate visitors.

DeSoto 73

homegrown } brave design

Mary Seay Taylor and Mimi Beasley Danosky

b rave

Jewelry Designed to Heal Story by Andrea Brown Ross Photography by Adam Mitchell and Brave Designs

“Brave Design is a creative partnership that produces treasures for your neck, wrist, waist, and fingers, headbands and headdresses,� explained Mimi Beasley Danosky, one half of the partnership that comprises Brave Design Jewelry. Mary Seay Taylor is her counterpart. Collectively, the two have lived in several states across the United States, but have always had a connection to the MidSouth. And while their trunk shows carry them and their tepees to various locations, they always make it back home to Memphis, Tennessee to create one of a kind pieces of jewelry.

74 DeSoto

“We share the brand and the vendors, and we travel together. We also bounce creative ideas off one another.

However, we create our pieces independent of each other.

When we open our cases for shows, we haven’t seen one another’s work until that time,” said Danosky.

The jewelry, however, serves a dual purpose.

“We believe in the ancient healing power of gems and minerals (and a good road trip, cocktails, and chocolate). We source our “medicine” globally – Albuquerque to India – but our creations are made by hand in Memphis. Here, we also hit estate sales, antique stores, and eclectic marketplaces for unique components.”

Utilizing the metaphysical attributes of various stones, Taylor consults with clients to create custom pieces according to their needs. For example, quartz crystal is believed to have a calming and healing effect, and amethysts are believed to help with compulsion and addiction. “Mary creates a potentially healing piece of jewelry that is also beautiful and wearable. She works stones into works of art to help people,” said Danosky.

Danosky elaborated on how they create each piece.

“Literally, we create one piece at a time. Everything we do is by our own hands - from sourcing the stones, chains, clasps, metals and materials, to designing the piece, to production, photography, marketing and selling the final products.”

Finding what inspires the next piece is an important part of the process. “The stones that we work with are so unique within themselves. We take a lot of time pouring over cases of gems and minerals to find the right ones. We hunt for those

individual pieces that we consider beautiful and sometimes imperfect or uniquely irregular. Those beautiful imperfections is in large part what attracts and inspires us,” said Danosky.

Brave Design can also help customers reinvent a cherished piece of broken jewelry into a new design. “We can collaborate with a client for a special occasion. We can also incorporate a relic from the past, such as a broken pearl necklace. We can rework the original into an updated piece with vintage components.”

Danosky described how they decided upon the name of their business. “We have been working together under the name Brave for four years. When we were deciding on a name, Mary and I were talking, and Mary knew what she wanted to call it. It was the name she would have used for a son, if she were to have one. When Mary asked me what I thought the name should be (without revealing her choice), I said the exact name. It was in the forefront of my consciousness as well: Brave.”

Just like their name, Brave Design offers a distinctive selection. “Each piece is unique. There is no mass production.

Our jewelry can be incorporated into their daily look and mixed with other pieces of jewelry,” said Danoksy. “We create pieces to remind our clients how beautiful, strong, and brave they are.”

To browse the collections of necklaces, bracelets, and earrings, visit bravearrowjewelry.com. Personal consultations are by appointment at their Memphis studios at Oak Hall and at Spruce.

DeSoto 75

in good spirts } eggnog

“Here’s to alcohol, the rose colored glasses of life.”

F. Scott Fitzgerald

76 DeSoto

eggnog

By Cheré Coen. Photography by Cheré Coen

There’s little definitive history of the milky drink eggnog, the spiked holiday standard Southerners love so much.

Some believed its English ancestor to be a medieval beverage incorporating hot milk and available alcohol called posset, a favorite among the elite according to food writer Alton Brown.

Eggnog became popular in the New World during the colonial period where eggs and rum were more readily available.

Later, good ole American bourbon was used, and today, it is the alcoholic ingredient of choice among Southerners.

Alabama food writer Eugene Walter wrote in his last memoir that “one of the endless discussions in the South deals with the question of what is the authentic recipe for eggnog, be it served like a drink or one eaten with a spoon. His posthumously published “The Happy Table of Eugene Walter: Southern Spirits in Food and Drink” includes several recipes

for eggnog, including “Mary Scrugg’s Eggnog,” a recipe from her father born in Louisiana in 1853 that utilizes bourbon and must be served in cut-glass cups, or a version that marries both rum and whiskey from Eva B. Purefoy, the “kitchen monarch” of Talladega’s Purefoy Hotel in Alabama. For those of you with children, Walter’s book includes banana eggnog by Purefoy sans alcohol.

Both an historic — descended from decades of alcohol production in the Tennessee mountains — and a more modern approach is Ole Smoky Moonshine’s “Shine Nog,” a blend of eggnog cream with moonshine and holiday flavors.

The Gatlinburg, Tenn., distillery produces several flavors of moonshine, including pumpkin pie, and offers a root beer float recipe for its Shine Nog.

Here are several recipes for eggnog to suite any taste buds:

Eggnog, 1939

Mary Scrugg’s Eggnog

1 dozen eggs, separated 1 cup sugar 1 pint bourbon whiskey 1/4 cup dark rum 1 quart whipping cream Whole nutmeg

Directions: Beat egg yolks well, about half an hour if hand beater is used. Gradually beat in half the sugar. Gradually add whiskey very, very slowly, beating constantly. Add rum slowly. (Some omit the rum and add a little more bourbon.) In a separate bowl, beat egg whites stiff, beat in remaining sugar, and fold in whipped cream, then fold into egg yolk mixture. If an old-time thin eggnog is desired, add 1 quart of milk to this same recipe. Without milk this serves about 12. Sprinkle with grated nutmeg if desired.

12 tablespoons sugar 12 eggs, separated 12 tablespoons bourbon 1/2 pint whipping cream Whole nutmeg

Directions: Add 1 tablespoon sugar for each yolk and beat until yolks are lemon-colored and very thick. Add 1 tablespoon best bourbon whiskey for each yolk when yolks are halfway beaten. Whip egg whites until stiff, whip cream until stiff, and fold all together. Add grated nutmeg on top of each serving.

By Eva B. Purefoy, from “The Happy Table of Eugene Walter”

By Mary Scrugg, from “The Happy Table of Eugene Walter”

Ole Smoky Shine Nog Float

Blend equal parts Ole Smoky Shine Nog and root beer. Serve on the rocks with a cinnamon stick.

DeSoto 77

table talk } hernando’s underground cafe

Going Underground A

By Corey Latta. Photography by Adam Mitchell

Among all that Hernando, Mississippi is known for- its quiet living, its southern feel, its welcoming people–good food continues to be one of the city’s signature traits.

Hernando’s Underground Cafe, formerly Memphis Street Cafe, proves that reputation true. Featured on the Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives and a favorite spot for many North Mississippians, Underground Cafe is quickly becoming one of Hernando’s most celebrated restaurants.

“When Food Network was here, they nicknamed us the “underground” because they thought we were one of the best kept secrets in town,” said Dean Meucci, restaurant manager.

Underground Cafe is owned and operated by husband and wife team, Chris and Natalia Lee, along with friend and renowned chef, Steve Hornecker. Owner chefs Lee and Hornecker bring decades of experience to Underground.

Between Lee, an award winning and impressively accomplished chef and Hornecker, formerly executive chef of Owen Brennan’s restaurant in Memphis, Underground Cafe brings a unique experience to the Hernando dining scene. Because 78 DeSoto

of his expertise in Louisiana style cuisine, the Lees partnered with Hornecker to offer something previously unavailable in the area: a unique Cajun dining experience. “Cajun is what we do best,” Meucci said. “We serve some of the best Cajun food I’ve ever had. Our menu is full of a great variety of Cajun dishes.”Hornecker’s experience in Cajun cuisine brings a New Orleans flavor to North Mississippi.

Favorite Cajun dishes include:

Low Country Shrimp and Grits – Gulf shrimp,

simmered in garlic cream and spices with sautéed spinach over Southern style grits

Blackened Chicken & Grits – blackened chicken breast simmered in garlic cream and Cajun spices with grilled peppers, onions, and stewed tomatoes over Southern style grits

Chicken Crepes – Crepes stuffed with grilled marinated chicken and topped with a mushroom dill cream sauce. Served with rice pilaf and fresh vegetable of the day

Underground Cafe serves popular Cajun entrees in a casual atmosphere to a wide range of customers. “We have a lot business clientele, families, and a lot couples,” Meucci said. “One thing we do is to invite couples to bring their own wine. We don’t serve it, but our customers are more than welcome to bring it in.” Patrons of all ages and for all occasions can enjoy Underground’s welcoming atmosphere if dining in. The restaurant’s party room holds 10 to 15. Or companies, organizations, churches, and events can take advantage of the café’s catering options. Underground caters to large parties of 100 or more. Carry outs are always welcome, too, and Underground Cafe serves a variety of grab-on-the-go sandwiches, including:

Ahi Tuna – Asian barbeque marinated and seared, with lettuce, tomato and Wasabi mayonnaise

Turkey, Bacon, and Swiss – toasted hoagie with smoked turkey, bacon, Swiss cheese, lettuce, tomato and a wine & cheese dressing

Chicken Cordon Bleu – breaded chicken breast topped

with black forest ham and melted Swiss cheese, lettuce, tomato and dijonaisse

Reuben – shaved corned beef with homemade sauerkraut, melted Swiss cheese and Russian dressing on marble rye bread

The Cowboy – Half pound Black Angus burger with bacon, pepper jack cheese, jalapenos, barbeque sauce and shaved fried onion

If not in the mood for any of these, customers can opt for one of Underground’s most popular dishes, the Po-Boy. Meucci’s opinion of the Po-Boys speaks for itself, “Our Po-Boys are the best I’ve ever had, and I’m not just saying this because I work here!” The only challenge for customers may be choosing from the catfish, soft shell crab, shrimp, oyster or crawfish Po-Boy. Located on the historic square underneath the gift shop Accents, Underground Cafe may be found at the bottom of a staircase, but the food remains nothing but top shelf.

Seafood Gumbo

Blackened Catfish Poboy

DeSoto 79

exploring events } december Starry Nights November 21-December 28 Shelby Farms Memphis, TN Load up the car and drive slowly through Shelby Farms’ ginormous annual holiday light display (Starry Nights features more than 2.5 million LED lights).

This year’s new displays pay homage to Memphis landmarks like Graceland, Beale Street, Sun Studio, the Grizzlies, and more.

16th Annual Southern Lights November 27-December 31 Central Park Southaven, MS Drive through the 116-acre park with 500,000 twinkling lights. Cars can tune to five FM radio stations playing Christmas music as they ride through the park. Don’t miss the Christmas Tree Farm synchronized to music by Trans-Siberian Orchestra.

Proceeds benefit local charities. For more information visit www.southaven.org or call 662-890-7275.

A Chirstmas Carol December 5-23 Theatre Memphis Memphis, TN A Memphis Family Holiday Tradition. Miserly Ebenezer Scrooge is approached by the ghostly vision of his former business partner, Jacob Marley, who warns him of an upcoming spiritual journey.

An eye-opening exploration leads to happiness and enlightenment, not to mention song, dance and holiday cheer. For tickets visit theatrememphis.org.

Cleveland Holiday Tour of Homes December 5-7 Cleveland, MS Cleveland’s first showcase of holiday homes includes a Friday night candlelight tour, Saturday tours, and historic home and church tour in Rosedale on Sunday.

Various events throughout. Great girlfriend getaway seeing some of the most beautiful homes in the Delta!

Tickets are $15 for a one day pass. $30 for the weekend.

For tickets visit www.holidaytourofhomescleveland. com or call 662-843-2712 An Ultimate Christmas December 6 7:00pm The Link Centre Tupelo, MS An ultimate Christmas with Cody Ray Slaughter, Jay Dupuis, and ETS Band and special guests Tom Brown and Jeff Lewis. Presented by the Elvis Presley Fan Club of Tupelo. Special Thanks to the Elvis Presley Birthplace (all tickets include free admission to Elvis’ 80 DeSoto

childhood home) For tickets visit www.hrhpromotions.com or call 662-871-6832 Holly Springs 26th Annual Christmas Tour of Homes December 6-7 Holly Springs, MS To purchase tickets visit www. marshallcountymuseum.com or call 662-252-3669 Senatobia Christmas Tour of Homes December 7 1:00 - 4:00 pm Senatobia, MS Sponsored by the Magnolia Garden Club Tickets are $20 and may be purchased from a club member or at the Upstairs Closet The Holiday Ice Spectacular December 10-21 Gold Strike Casino Millennium Theatre Tunica Resorts, MS Families and guests of all ages will be treated to an original theatrical ice production that combines the beauty, excitement and athleticism of figure skating with a warm and humorous holiday storyline narrated

by Santa’s elves. For tickets visit www.goldstrike.com or call 1-888-747-7711.

Ballet Memphis’ The Nutcracker December 12-14 The Orpheum Theatre Memphis, TN All ages/kid friendly For tickets visit www.ticketmaster.com The Band Perry December 13 Horseshoe Casino Tunica Resorts, MS For tickets visit www.ticketmaster.com or call 800-303-7463 Chritsmas in Hernando featuring The Germantown Symphony Orchestra December 15 7:00pm Hernando Performing Arts Center Hernando, MS The Germantown Symphony Orchestra presents “A Hernando Christmas” featuring favorite yuletide compositions with a local flair and introducing the Mississippi Youth Chamber Orchestra.

Ticket cost for general admission is $50 (which is tax deductible).

For more information, contact hernandoparksfoundation@ gmail.com or call 662-471-8833.

56th Annual AutoZone Liberty Bowl December 29 3:00pm AutoZone Liberty Bowl Stadium Memphis, TN For tickets call 901-785-7700, email tickets@libertybowl.org or visit www.ticketmaster.com.

Christmas Parades: December 1: Hernando, MS New Albany, MS Senatobia, MS Oxford, MS December 5: Collierville, TN December 6: Olive Branch, MS Arlington, TN Bartlett, TN Memphis, TN Millington, TN Vicksburg, MS Holly Springs, MS Corinth, MS Southaven, MS Walls, MS December 8: Tupelo, MS December 9: Horn Lake, MS December 11: Marion, AR December 13: Columbus, MS Germantown, TN DeSoto 81

reflections } the last step

the last step Story by Karen Ott Mayer. Photo courtesy of realhousedesign.com

I know a lady whose mother lived on the third floor of her home for years. An elderly lady in her 90s, the mother had come to rely on the generous care taking of her daughter.

When I would happen across the daughter in town on multiple occasions, I tried to remember to ask about her mother whom I had only met once.

In the natural order of things, over time her responses changed.

“Well, she’s fine” soon led to “She doesn’t come downstairs much anymore” to finally, “She’s pretty much confined to her bed.”

One day, I ran into the daughter again and she shared her latest woe which had little to do with her mother. Or so it would seem.

“The whole plaster ceiling in the hallway just hit the floor one day,” she said. As only an old-home homeowner can weather, she smiled and said they were cleaning up. When I asked about her mother, her tone changed.

“You aren’t going to believe what happened.” Her mother remained constantly bedridden.

“The other day, I was in the hallway cleaning up and had the T.V. on loud, listening to one of those detective shows, when I heard someone calling my name. Here, I looked up and saw Mama standing on the staircase.” Incredulous, the lady asked her mother what she was doing.

“My mother said she heard me yelling for help and she said, ‘I just have to go help my daughter’ so she climbed out of bed and walked down two flights of stairs.”

82 DeSoto

Perfectly fine, the daughter was immediately confused.

Then, she remembered the T.V.

“I was watching one of those shows where someone was in trouble and this woman had been screaming for help.

My mother heard it and thought it was me.”

Since her mother was downstairs, the daughter took her outside where they sat next to each other on a wooden swing for hours.

“When my husband drove up, I could see the look on his face like...what is going on here? Mama was in her night gown,” she said with a laugh.

Not long after I heard that story, I also heard the mother had died. Even though I barely knew her name and only briefly met her once, I felt compelled to see the daughter.

Standing in the church with tears glistening in her eyes, the daughter smiled when she talked about the day her mother came to her rescue. I told her it’s the best kind of story because of the inherent mystery of it all.

Beyond the bounds of religion and man’s constrained understanding lies the inexplicable when love is present. Despite age and infirmity, one mother’s drive to help her daughter gave her unwavering strength.

If we clear our lives of all the dividing lines, conflicts and prejudices, we can see those mysteries still present in our world. Holiday seasons represent a celebration of faith, family and traditions, especially those involving children. It may have been only two flights of stairs, but one mother’s instinct could not be aged away in any season.

DeSoto 83

84 DeSoto