March & April 2024

woman Southern Woman | March/ April 2024 | Issue 18 | southernwoman.com

MARCH|APRIL 2024 • ISSUE 18 • COMPLIMENTARY

FAYETTE'S LEADING

OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY PRACTICE The Women's Specialists of Fayette comprise a healthcare team that understands that women have special healthcare needs throughout their lives.

Our specialists are trained in the field of women's medicine which includes obstetrical and gynecological services such as pregnancy care, family planning needs and counseling, annual examinations, and minor office surgical procedures.

In addition, specialized care is available in areas such as high risk pregnancy and gynecological/urogynecological surgery

William T. Cook, M.D.

Marlo Carter, M.D.

Matthew Ralsten, M.D.

Nicole E. Quinn, M.D.

Yvonne Conaway, N.P.

Nykia Burke-Bray, MD.

wsfayette.com 770-632-9900

1267 Hwy. 54 West, Suite 3200, Fayetteville (Inside Piedmont Fayette Hospital) 403 Westpark Ct, Suite 205 Peachtree City, GA 30269

Peachtree City

What is balance? We think of balance in many different aspects of life. We have to balance to stand and walk. We need work/life balance for our emotional wellbeing. We should eat a balanced diet. Have you ever thought of perceived beauty in terms of balance? One of the many definitions provided in Webster's Dictionary for the word balance is: an aesthetically pleasing integration of elements.

Facial balancing or facial harmonizing looks at every detail of the face from the forehead to the chin, and everything in between.

Surgical or non-surgical methods are utililzed to ensure each feature of the face is proportionate and balanced.

As we age, we think about our bone density. We have bone remodeling throughout our body, including our facial structure and support such as the skull, cheekbones, and chin. We have a slowing down of our collagen production beginning just after our teens, and as we age the skin becomes increasingly lax. We also have changes in the fat pads of our face, as some fat pads become thinner, and some will descend or drop with less skeletal support, weaker ligaments, and lax skin. You will start noticing segmentations in the face, especially the midface area, and sagging in the lower face.

Our nurse practitioner, Trisha Kennedy Roman, MSN, FNP-BC, NP-C, focuses on these subtle changes that come with facial aging with her signature Subtle Reverse 180. She will analyze each individual's face and study proportions, light reflection, symmetry, and ratios. Her treatment plans are very individualized with a goal to balance and restore a natural looking you! Her belief is that a face should never look like it has been "filled", rather just look more youthful, refreshed, and harmonized.

Sometimes we are born with features that throw off balance and proportions, such as a recessed chin, a disproportionately thin upper lip, or uneven eyebrows. However, the aging process in the face begins disrupting the balance and proportions of the face as well.

Trisha Kennedy Roman, MSN, FNP-BC, NP-C has been specializing in cosmetic injectables for over 15 years. She has been a highly requested cosmetic injectable trainer and lecturer across the country by major pharmaceutical companies for over a decade. Her artistic abilities, focus on patient safety, and natural looking treatment results have garnered a loyal following of repeat clientele.

200 Westpark Dr. - Suite 200 - Peachtree City, GA 30269

www.rpsptc.com Phone: 770-450-1245

About Us! KICK PEACH BEAUTY is a visionary skincare brand committed to reimagining everything we have come to know about the way we care for our skin with innovative waterless formulations. Founded by Amanda Thompson, a seasoned beauty industry expert, the brand challenges conventional norms and focuses on streamlined skincare that delivers results without compromise. The debut of their signature, patentpending, PM POWER PACK marks a new era in skincare – a fusion of science, sustainability, and efficacy.

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woman

SOUTHERN Publisher Melanie Denney Haas melanie.southernwoman@gmail.com Editorial Contributors Bonnie Helander, Deena Attia, Laura Chubineh Cover Photography

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1 year (6 issues) for $39 March/April 2024

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Hey Y'all!

I am thrilled to connect with you as we eagerly anticipate the arrival of Spring. As the publisher of Southern Woman Magazine, it is my utmost pleasure to introduce our March/April issue, which promises to be a true celebration of this vibrant season.

But that's not all! I am absolutely delighted to announce the launch of our brand-new Southern Teen section. This dedicated space is designed to empower and inspire the young and spirited souls of the South. We believe in nurturing the next generation and providing a platform for their unique experiences, stories, and talents to shine.

As Spring brings with it a sense of renewal and growth, our magazine reflects this spirit. We have curated a collection of articles, features, and stories that embody the essence of this season. From fashion and beauty trends to home and garden inspiration, we have something for every Southern woman looking to embrace the joys of Spring.

e in e s o et v o l e? u n o i z y a ould an Mag w gs t a m thin h o d W an nW r e es, c h t a l m e, p : Sou .co opl o t e ail ve ep o m h l t g all you ia@ us d d e ext n m Sen r n u a in o om p w u n nd her t st e ue! u u j t so iss igh It m

However, none of this would be possible without you, our valued readers. Your support and engagement have been the driving force behind our success, and we are immensely grateful for your continued loyalty. I invite you to share your thoughts, ideas, and stories with us as we embark on this exciting journey together.

As we bid farewell to winter's chill, let us welcome the blossoming flowers, the gentle warmth of the sun, and the promise of new beginnings. May this issue of Southern Woman Magazine be a source of inspiration, empowerment, and joy for each and every one of you.

Thank you for being a part of our Southern Woman community. We look forward to sharing the magic of Spring with you.

Be Blessed, Melanie Denney-Haas Publisher, Owner

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He Is Risen !

TABLE OF CONTENTS

In This Issue 4 5 6 12 18 20 26 30 32 36 40 41 43 46 50 54 55

PUBLISHERS LETTER TABLE OF CONTENTS a JOURNEY of TRANSFORMATION A MAGICAL PLACE FOR weddings & SPECIAL EVENTS IT’S NEVER TO LATE FOR LOVE AND aDVENTURE CRAFTING THE PERFECT GARDEN TABLE TABLESCAPES TEEN EMPOWERMENT AN UMBRELLA OVER PEOPLE IN CRISIS QUILTS OF VALOR HAIR TIPS WITH TAYLOR MARSH SOUTHERN SASHAY SOUTHERN BAKED PIES WHAT WE ARE HAVING 10 TIPS TO AGE YOUR GARDEN AND ADD OLD WORLD CHARM DIY RECIPES TO AGE TERRACOTTA POTS BLACKWATER LEATHER

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My life has been a journey from darkness to light, from despair to hope, and from adversity to resilience. Woven with threads of trials and triumphs, I've encountered challenges that have shaped me into who I am today. My journey through abuse, divorce, loss, and despair over the years was not just a series of unfortunate events; it was a training ground for what was to come later in my life.

In high school, I was a top student, popular, and felt invincible. However, life had other plans for me, and I bypassed college to become a wife and mother, thinking it was what I was supposed to want. Little did I know that the next decade of my life would be marked by terror as the person who vowed to love, honor, and defend me became my abuser. I felt isolated and trapped, and abuse has a way of deflecting friends and family, making them unsure how to help.

It took a final blow up that ultimately landed my first husband in prison. This finally gave me the avenue and courage to leave. But escaping an abusive relationship is only the first step; knowing where to go is another challenge altogether. Like most abused women, I had no plan, no map, no landmarks, and no paved road back to normal life. I had to find my own way, starting over at a deficit.

Rebuilding Myself While others my age were pursuing degrees and building careers, I was a young and overwhelmed mom just trying to survive. It was in my late twenties that I re-entered the workforce, at first because I needed to pay bills and take care of my two young sons, but also to get back on track to become someone important, someone successful, the thing that I had longed for. I entered the world of finance, determined to help women coming out of their traumas find footing and a sense of control over a piece of their life that is often overwhelming. My experiences with abuse, divorce, single parenting, and remarriage became the foundation of a very successful financial consulting career.

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The Healing Begins It was during this time of my life that I really started reflecting on all that had happened along the way. Why did this happen to me? Did I do something to deserve this? I was diagnosed with complex PTSD, and as a victim of intimate partner violence, I started to understand why I was feeling the way I did. This diagnosis explained much of my journey and decision making—the years I spent out but not truly free, in a fog, needing to heal, and missing the path back to myself. But when I finally did start healing, it was with the support of my husband, Carmine, and an expert in PTSD who understood what I had been through and had walked a similar life path as me.

A New Beginning In addition to helping women become financially stable and fearless, my personal experiences led to a new career as a transformational coach, specializing in divorce, empowerment, money, and mindset.

For as long as I can remember, Wonder Woman has always been a significant role model for me, and I am deeply thankful for the inspiration she has provided throughout my life. Her unwavering strength and profound empathy have left an indelible mark on my heart. Witnessing the perfect fusion of power and compassion in her character has fueled my unwavering passion for empowering others.

It's this profound connection to Wonder Woman and my desire to help women harness their own inner strength and compassion that led me to start my practice, SHERO Life & Empowerment Coaching. I wanted to create a space where women could discover their inner superheroes, tap into their potential, and rewrite their life stories with courage, resilience, and heart. Through SHERO, I aim to inspire and guide others on their empowering journeys, just as Wonder Woman has done for me.

Another Mountain to Climb Just when I thought I was on a steady path of recovery, life threw another challenge my way. In December 2021, I woke up feeling strange, and by the end of the day, I was in the hospital, diagnosed with Guillain-Barré Syndrome, a rare neurological disorder. It was a sudden and severe setback that left me paralyzed and facing an uncertain future. The prognosis given by the medical professionals was heartbreakingly tough, suggesting a long and difficult road to recovery. They estimated it might take a year before I could walk again.

The hospital became my new battleground, where I fought for every inch of progress. Though the reality of not being home for Christmas was heart-wrenching, the support and love of my family were my pillars of strength.

My husband became my rock, my caregiver, reaffirming our vows of "in sickness and in health" every day.

Those days in the hospital and rehab were a blur of pain, fear, and uncertainty. I felt an array of emotions – loneliness, helplessness, and at times, an overwhelming sense of despair. But amidst all the uncertainty, I realized that surrendering to bitterness was not an option; I had to fight to get better.

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However, my journey was far from over. After a month in the hospital and daily intensive therapy, I was permitted to return home, still wheelchair bound.

Fueled by the love and support of my husband and family, the incredible doctors and therapists, along with my unyielding determination to reclaim my life, I defied all the odds that were stacked against me.

At the age of 50, I started the arduous process of relearning basic tasks, including walking, writing, and dressing myself. In what was nothing short of a miracle, I took my first steps just 56 days later, surpassing every expectation and milestone that lay before me. My battle with GBS became a mirror reflecting the resilience I had been building all my life.

The journey through GBS has been an odyssey of pain, struggle, and eventual triumph. Every day has been a test of will, but I chose to get better, not bitter.

With each small victory, I found new purpose and strength. This experience taught me to find blessings in chaos, and seek gratitude in the smallest of things.

Transforming Adversity into Opportunity My struggle with GBS wasn't just a personal battle; it was a lesson in transforming adversity into opportunity. It taught me to never give up, to find strength in the face of overwhelming odds, and to lead by example. This period of my life was not about losing myself to the condition but about rediscovering my strength and resilience.

As I continued to struggle with the physical limitations imposed by GBS, my mind was racing with thoughts of all the women who might be facing their battles, feeling alone and helpless. It was a profound moment of clarity for me. I had spent years offering one-on-one personal coaching to women, guiding them through the toughest seasons of their lives. But now, I felt a strong calling to amplify my impact, to reach out to more women simultaneously, to share the lessons I had learned not just from my professional experience but from my personal journey of resilience and recovery.

The transition from personal coaching to developing a more comprehensive program was driven by this newfound purpose. I wanted to create something that wasn't just an extension of my coaching but a structured, scalable way to empower women. This led to the birth of the Empowerment Blueprint.

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The Birth of The Empowerment Blueprint The transition from personal coaching to developing a more comprehensive program was driven by this newfound purpose. I wanted to create something that wasn't just an extension of my coaching but a structured, scalable way to empower women. This led to the birth of The Empowerment Blueprint.

The Empowerment Blueprint is a culmination of everything I believe in and everything I've learned over the years, both as a coach and as a survivor. It's a program designed to provide women with the tools they need to navigate through life's challenges and emerge stronger, more confident, and empowered. I want to help my clients create the lives they want by removing mental mountains and shifting from a scarcity mindset to an abundant one.

Creating The Empowerment Blueprint was more than just developing a program; it was about opening a new chapter in the realm of womens’ empowerment. It's the place where I share my journey and insights with a broader audience, touching more lives than I could have through one-on-one sessions alone.

The cornerstone of The Empowerment Blueprint is the C.A.P.E. Method, an acronym that represents four critical areas of focus:

Clarity & Confidence I help women gain clarity on what they truly want and guide them in building the confidence to pursue it. This is where the journey begins. It's about defining personal success and setting audacious goals that create the life that dreams are made of. We start with the process of introspection to define what success really means to you, beyond family, societal, and even beyond your own previous expectations. We work together to get a crystal clear definition of how you want to feel in the future in all areas of your life. Allowing this connection to how you want to feel in the future opens up the gateway to confidence in the now. This is how you get the clarity needed to pursue audacious growth and live the life of your dreams.

You won’t get somewhere new unless you can see where you have been. We do this by setting clear goals to achieve your desired future state or “how you want to feel in the future” so that you can start living a life that feels good to your soul right now.

No more waiting. To get there, we need to set goals that truly matter to you personally. By creating your own aspirations, you are setting yourself up for success which leads to a higher likelihood of achievement and a deeper level of satisfaction.

Confidence comes from consistently showing up for yourself. In The Empowerment Blueprint, we walk alongside you in overcoming previous setbacks so that you develop the resilient mindset that supportively carries you forward with more ease. This stage of the C.A.P.E Method helps in identifying past failures as learning experiences and transforming them into stepping stones for future success. This shift in perspective fosters a sense of enduring self-confidence.

Alignment & Authenticity

Here, we work on aligning inner beliefs and values with daily actions. This relates to the motivation you feel. It's about living authentically and being true to oneself, which is essential for genuine and lasting fulfillment. As we deep dive into your inner self, we uncover your core values, beliefs, and personal truths. This process often involves introspective techniques like journaling, meditation, and guided self-reflection, which also happen to be some of my favorite things to do. When we align our daily actions, routines, and habits with our inner value, this is where we start living our lives on March/April 2024

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purpose. This unity between your inner and outer worlds leads to a more authentic and fulfilling life.

Embracing and living authentically will lead to improved mental health, stronger relationships, and greater life satisfaction. By aligning our actions with our authentic selves, we can overcome feelings of inadequacy or impostor syndrome, which is especially prevalent in professional environments.

Passion & Purpose At this stage, the Cape Method is all about identifying and integrating passions into your everyday life. We distinguish passions from purpose to find deeper fulfillment and meaning in each area of our lives. As we explore various activities and interests, we can identify what truly ignites our passion. This could involve revisiting old hobbies or exploring new interests, or a mix of both. As you explore your passions and connect more with how you want to feel in the future, you will begin to feel more joy in your life. It comes down to doing what feels good to your soul, and when we aren’t, our soul lets us know it. So we are focusing on feeding our soul in this area of The Empowerment Blueprint. As we differentiate between short-term passions and longterm purpose, this is where we begin to unlock the key to sustainable fulfillment which is our roadmap to truly living our best lives. We let go of what no longer serves us and move forward on purpose, a truly integrated experience.

Empowerment & Execution This final stage of the C.A.P.E. Method is about reflecting on personal growth, empowering aligned actions, and developing a plan to achieve your goals. As we review your journey, we can reflect on your personal growth areas as well as identify areas where continued development will benefit you in achieving your deepest desires. This reflection fosters a sense of accomplishment and readiness for future challenges. It utilizes the resilient mind we developed in earlier phases of the Cape Method. This is also in part further building your confidence muscle. Emphasis is placed on taking actions that are in line with your goals, values, and authentic self. This aligned action leads to more meaningful and impactful outcomes - true empowerment. We won’t stop there. As we develop your comprehensive action plan, you will now have your very own roadmap that you can follow for all of your future endeavors. In The Empowerment Blueprint, we’ll be right by your side helping you stay accountable to your highest self by giving you the support, guidance, and coaching that you need to ensure consistent progress towards your goals.

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What you can expect from The Empowerment Blueprint: Personal Growth and Development: The program focuses on personal development, helping women to seek their deepest desires and live their lives on purpose.

Guidance and Coaching: As we walk alongside you on your path to empowerment, you can expect to receive expert guidance and coaching, including one-on-one sessions, group discussions, and tailored advice specific to helping you achieve a high level of success.

Tools for Overcoming Challenges: The Blueprint provides strategies and tools to help women overcome personal and professional challenges.

We share all of the tried and true tips that we have used to achieve our own empowered lives.

This way you don’t have to waste time on trying things that won’t help you achieve your goals.

Empowerment and Confidence Building: A key focus of the program is building confidence and empowering women to take charge of their lives.

It is where you find your true power.

Actionable Steps for Life Transformation: The Blueprint includes practical and actionable steps that women can implement to see real changes in their lives.

Holistic Approach to Well-Being: The program takes a holistic approach, addressing not just career or personal growth but also emotional and mental well-being. We are setting you up for success in all of your future endeavors, for once you develop the confidence you need to move forward, your resilient mindset will help you achieve beyond your wildest dreams.

jenniferperri.com/blueprint

A NIGHT UNDER THE SEA APRIL 27, 2024 at THE GEORGIA AQUARIUM 225 Baker St NW | Atlanta | GA | 30313

6:00 - 11:00 PM Join Bloom for the 20th Anniversary of their annual gala, The Bloom Ball! Each spring, nearly 500 guests convene for a 3-course meal, games & raffles, auctions, and networking to raise funds that sustain Bloom's programs and services. The Bloom Ball celebrates Bloom’s progress toward a world where every foster child has a safe, nurturing family and is a call to action for greater achievements and more profound impact.

The Venue at Murphy Lane

A Magical Place for Weddings and Special Events By: Deena Attia 12 SOUTHERN WOMAN

Congratulations to the newly engaged couples planning for the wedding of their dreams! And for those looking for a unique spot to celebrate a joyous occasion for a birthday, retirement, or anniversary. The Venue at Murphy Lane is the spot to host parties, celebrations, company events, and retreats.

Just 45 minutes from Hartsfield Jackson International Airport lies 88 acres of breathtaking countryside with a beautifully restored barn, a cabin accommodating 12, and incredible ceremony site options. The search is over if you have dreamed of an event space encompassingthe natural beauty of the outdoors or envision an upscale and elegant barn wedding. The Murphy Lane Experience can be customized to meet all your expectations!

Entering the gates of this glorious property will instantly transport you to a state of peacefulness.

Seeing the rolling hills and ponds can ease your worries and any stress. When you meet Kara and Hank, the owners of this magical and award-winning spot, you will feel the warmth and love they both have for the couples they take care of for one of the most memorable times: their wedding. You will be confident knowing they have hand-picked the best vendors, and everythingwill be perfectly planned and executed in every aspect. If you choose, your wedding experience can begin with the rehearsal dinner on the property and accommodations for family and friends in the cabin, and it's all for you. There are never multiple events happening at the same time. The weekend is genuinely curated and dedicated to you.

Kara and Hank Lane have thoughtfully planned a process- The Murphy Lane Experience, the ultimate allinclusive wedding package. Everything is carefully considered and customized for the bride and groom, and all the vendors have been selected based on their stellar work ethic, expertise in their field, and genuine Southern hospitality.

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The Barn The Murphy Lane barn is not your typical barn venue. With a grand crystal chandelier, timeless white washed walls, and a sprawling enclosed patio, the options are limitless for your ceremony setup. The inside of the barn contains the bridal makeup + hair counter + our modern catering kitchen

The Big Oak Tree Nestled deep into the property is the Big Oak Tree. It's surrounded by picturesque farmland and is a partially shaded site. The Big Oak Tree can accommodate any size wedding party. Use the majestic tree however you prefer--with an arbor, our wooden cross, floral arrangements etc.

The Enclosed Patio The Enclosed Patio is the newest ceremony site addition to the venue. It connects to the barn so you can easily transition to your reception after your ceremony and/or cocktail hour. Soft and flattering light pours in from all angles making this a hotspot for photos. The patio is the perfect backup plan for rain, but a unique and stunning ceremony location no matter the weather.

The Field Our field gives you that carefree feeling as you relish in the wide open spaces of the Murphy Lane grounds. Enjoy the vibrant clovers in the spring or the rich golden hues in the fall. The field is simple, yet captivating and provides gorgeous lighting--it's truly a magical ceremony site!

The Valley Say 'I do" under the gorgeous canopy of Murphy Lane trees. While the Valley can be booked for any time of year, it's a hotspot for summer weddings due to its blanket of shade for guests + bridal party. Use one of our arbors to complete your dream wedding look!

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Florals Florals are one of the first things a bride chooses when planning her wedding. Florals can evoke a general feel through color and texture. Florals are used traditionally in bouquets and throughout the decor (tables, aisle floral arrangements, arbors, etc.).

Tablescapes and Styling Whether simple or opulent, the options are vast. It all depends on your vision and style and how you want the environment to feel when your guests enter the reception area for the first time.

Wedding Invitation What is your style, and how do you want to be represented as a couple? Your invitations give a sneak peek of what your guests should expect on the wedding day.

Your Personal Touches Whether simple or opulent, the options are vast. It all depends on your vision and style and how you want the environment to feel when your guests enter the reception area for the first time.

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I'd leave 6 stars if I could! Kara and Hank are so lovely and they have an absolutely beautiful venue that is immaculately kept. There are a variety of ceremony spots and they are always ready with a Plan B in case of inclement weather. Luckily, we were blessed with perfect weather for our November wedding. We chose the all-inclusive package and Kara got some amazing vendors for our wedding who were all so sweet and professional...I was overjoyed to not have to track down a caterer, photographer, DJ, etc. myself.

We felt very well taken care of and truly enjoyed our wedding. My mother-in-law also rented the cabin that's on the property for the wedding weekend, and that was an amazing amenity to offer!

Having the bridal party onsite the night before the wedding was very helpful.

We got so many compliments from our guests about everything from the food to the music to the venue and I am so thrilled that we got married at Murphy Lane. I would highly recommend it!

-Claire

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE VENUE AT MURPHY LANE, CONTACT KARA LANE AT 770-262-8241 OR CHECK OUT THE WEBSITE AT THEVENUEATMURPHYLANE.COM .

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Kelly Hillis www.theperfectposey.com kelly@theperfectposey.com

(770)825-3455

Floral Design Services Aisle Ends Boutonnières Bridal Bouquets Bridesmaid’s Bouquets Cake Flowers Floral Arches Floral Crowns Garlands

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It’s Never Too Late for Love and Adventure!

By: Deena Attia

I have had the great privilege of witnessing resilience and faith right before my eyes. It was not without struggle and grief but love and adventure prevailed.

The most incredible love story I have ever known was my parents. They married when they were 17 years old. During the six months leading up to the wedding, they wrote each other letters to keep in touch since my dad was in the Air Force and stationed out of state. Those letters told the beginning of their story, which I learned more about after my mom passed from Alzheimer’s disease.

In the days and months after my mom’s passing, my heart ached for my dad and the loss that he felt.

After almost 50 years of marriage and life not turning out as he imagined, I knew that with time, he would heal, but I knew it would be tough. One afternoon, when I walked into the home I grew up in and saw Joseph Campbell’s quote on the refrigerator, I realized my dad had turned a corner with his grieving. He had been attending Grief share meetings, and almost one year later, he was ready to venture out and find a companion. He decided to try a dating site- Our Time. This site is specifically for the 50 and over crowd. Soon after joining, he met someone. I was thrilled that my dad had the chance for companionship and happiness again with someone. That relationship lasted for several years.

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After that long-term relationship ended, my dad again turned to online dating. It didn’t take long for him to meet someone new. Jackie had also been married for a long time and cared for her husband when he was ill; a couple of years after his passing, she wanted to meet someone. She turned to online dating after her daughters suggested it. Jackie knew she wanted to meet a gentleman with whom she could go to dinner and watch ball games.

Since they met, Jackie has introduced my dad to the fun of traveling via cruise ships, and he loves it!

They are living their best life. They both have an active social life together with friends. Dad and Jackie’s goal was to meet someone to have dinner and watch games with, and they got much more.

Jackie advises women looking for a companion to try an online dating site and see what’s out there, but don’t give personal information immediately.

Women’s Health Magazine has listed some of the best dating apps for women over 40. Whatever you are looking for, these provide a vast selection of options.

1. eHarmony 2. Hinge 3. Tinder 4. Bumble 5. The League 6. Match

There is also a massive group of us that have gone through loss by way of divorce and eventually get to a point when it’s time to try again and hopefully find the right match.

What if online dating isn’t your thing? It wasn’t my thing either. I will always prefer getting out, socializing, and meeting people face-to-face. When my marriage was over, which was not long after my mom’s passing, I had a renewed zest for life. There were things I wanted to try and learn that I had long been curious about, including Salsa dancing. I went out with friends at first since I was brand new to the scene and had no experience with Salsa dancing.

I met someone during my fourth time out, and it all began with a dance. That was the beginning of an almost threeyear relationship. He taught me how to dance, and we had fun exploring Atlanta, seeing shows, and traveling together. My current boyfriend and I met while out at a Latin dance club. Dancing has been an excellent way for me to meet people.

Are you ready to get social and get out? Here are a few recommendations: Johnny’s Hideaway- it’s a drive, but it could be worth it! Bar and grill and dancing!

Dance lessons- Academy Ballroom- Miami Circle in Buckhead-they teach many dance styles. You don’t need a partner!

Join a local gym or find an activity that interests you, such as tennis or pickleball.

If you are open to meeting someone the old-fashioned way, get out and get social. I am a big proponent of joining social groups. If you are active and like to exercise- pickleball and running are great ways to burn calories and meet people. There are book clubs and writing groups. Do you want to learn something new?

Take a class. Learn to cook, paint, or play a new card game; there is something for everyone. Do you love to travel? There are groups for solo travelers. You can always ask friends and family to think about who they know might be a good match.

Everyone deserves to love and be loved. Try something new; you never know who you will meet. Along the way, I wish you abundant love and many adventures!

“ We must let go of the life we have planned, so as to accept the one that is waiting for us.”

-Joseph Campbell

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Crafting the Perfect Garden Party Table:

A Whimsical Affair

The Garden Setting

The key to a successful garden party is, of course, the garden itself. Choose a spot that offers a pleasant blend of sun and shade, where your guests can enjoy the beautiful surroundings without feeling too exposed to the elements. Set up your table in the heart of your garden, perhaps beneath a leafy tree or near a vibrant flower bed. I set my table in an area of the garden that has a lattice wall that curves around a secluded dining area.

As the sun's warm embrace settles over your garden, and the flowers sway gently in the breeze, there's no better time to host a delightful garden party. Creating a pictureperfect garden party table is not just about food and drink; it's about transforming your outdoor space into a magical haven where friends and family can come together to enjoy the beauty of nature. Here are the simple steps to design the perfect garden party table, complete with charming cabbage plates, a bunny, garden-fresh vegetables, mini watering cans, and silverware tucked into gardening gloves.

Cabbage Plates One of the most enchanting elements of your garden party table is undoubtedly the choice of dinnerware. Opt for cabbage plates to add a whimsical touch to your table setting. Cabbage plates mimic the texture and color of real cabbage leaves, infusing a touch of nature into your presentation.

They are both charming and functional, adding an extra layer of uniqueness to your party.

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Garden Vegetables

Incorporating fresh or faux garden vegetables into your table decor not only looks beautiful but also enhances the natural ambiance.

Arrange a variety of colorful vegetables around a bunny as the centerpiece. From ripe tomatoes and bell peppers to carrots and cucumbers, these veggies will not only serve as eye-catching decorations but can also be enjoyed as healthy snacks or additions to your meal. I'm thinking of a classic story of a bunny that gets caught while stealing veggies from a neighboring farmer.

The Bunny Guest

For a garden party filled with whimsy, consider inviting a delightful bunny to join your table setting. A lifelike rabbit figurine or stuffed bunny can sit amongst the vegetables or peek out from behind a potted plant, adding a touch of charm and enchantment to your garden tableau.

Mini Watering Cans

Miniature watering cans make for adorable table decor that ties in perfectly with the garden theme. Fill these tiny watering cans with fresh flowers or use them as vases for delicate blooms from your garden. Their small size and rustic appeal will add a delightful rustic touch to your garden party.

Silverware Tucked into Gardening Gloves For a playful and creative twist on traditional silverware placement, tuck your forks, knives, and spoons into gardening gloves. This unexpected touch will not only serve a practical purpose but also delight your guests with its whimsical presentation.

Choose gloves in pastel or earthy colors to match your garden theme.

A garden party is a celebration of nature's beauty and bounty, and the perfect garden party table is a canvas on which to paint your unique vision. By incorporating cabbage plates, a charming bunny, garden vegetables, mini watering cans, and silverware tucked into gardening gloves, you can create a magical and enchanting atmosphere that will leave your guests in awe of your creativity. Remember that the most important element is the joy and connection that a garden party can bring, and your thoughtfully designed table will only enhance the experience. So, gather your loved ones, embrace the beauty of your garden, and savor every moment of your perfect garden party.

PEACOCKRIDGEFARM.COM

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Quick & Easy Garden Party Favors:

Crafting Peter Rabbit's Garden Magic

.

Materials Needed: 1. Small terra cotta pots 2. Brown crinkled paper 3. Chocolate carrots 4. Peter Rabbit picks 5. Clear cellophane 6. Leaf-patterned ribbon 7. Picket fence cupcake wrapper

Prepare the Base Start with small terra cotta pots as the foundation for your mini garden. These pots add a rustic and natural feel to your favors. Fill the pots with brown crinkled paper to mimic the look of soil, creating the perfect backdrop for your garden-themed creation.

Hosting a garden party is a delightful way to celebrate in the beauty of nature with friends and loved ones. To add an extra touch of charm to your gathering, consider creating quick and easy "Peter Rabbit's Garden" mini pots as adorable party favors. These whimsical creations are not only visually appealing but also a breeze to make, ensuring that you have more time to enjoy the festivities.

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Add the "Vegetation"

Clip off the hanger from the chocolate carrots. Nestle chocolate carrots into the crinkled paper inside the pot. The chocolate carrots not only look adorable but also provide a sweet surprise for your guests.

Insert Peter Rabbit Picks Enhance the enchanting storybook vibe by placing whimsical Peter Rabbit picks among the "vegetation." These picks add a touch of nostalgia and make your mini garden come to life.

Benefits of "Peter Rabbit's Garden" Mini Pots:

Wrap it Up

To showcase your delightful creation, wrap the entire arrangement in clear cellophane. Gather the cellophane at the top, creating a neat bundle of garden magic. Tie it off with a leaf ribbon, adding a finishing touch that complements the natural theme of your favors.

The end result is a charming and whimsical "Peter Rabbit's Garden" mini pot that captures the essence of a storybook garden. These favors are not only visually appealing but also a delightful treat for your guests. The combination of terra cotta pots, chocolate carrots, and Peter Rabbit picks creates a perfect blend of simplicity and charm.

Quick and Easy: These favors are simple to assemble, allowing you to focus on other aspects of party planning.

Charming Aesthetic: The combination of terra cotta pots and whimsical decorations adds a touch of charm to your garden party.

Versatile: Adjust the size and style of your mini pots to suit the theme and atmosphere of your celebration.

Sweet Surprise: The inclusion of chocolate carrots adds a delicious element to the favors, delighting guests of all ages.

Memorable Keepsake: Guests can take these mini pots home as a keepsake, reminding them of the magical garden party you hosted.

Crafting "Peter Rabbit's Garden" mini pots is a delightful way to create quick and easy garden party favors that will leave a lasting impression on your guests. The combination of simplicity, charm, and a touch of sweetness makes these favors the perfect addition to any garden celebration.

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Whimsical Delight Crafting the Perfect "Dirt Cake" for Your Garden Party When it comes to garden parties, delighting your guests with creative and delicious treats is essential. Enter the whimsical world of "Dirt Cake," a charming dessert that combines the fun of crafting with the joy of indulging.

Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned baker, this delightful concoction of crushed chocolate wafers, chocolate Jello layers, and adorable garden-themed toppings will steal the show at your next garden gathering. Join us on a journey into the world of the "Dirt Cake," where simplicity meets enchantment, making it the perfect addition to your garden party menu.

Ingredients: 2 cups crushed chocolate wafers 2 cups cold milk 1 package (5.9 oz) of chocolate instant pudding mix 2 cups whipped topping (like Cool Whip) Assorted small garden vegetableshaped candies Peter Rabbit picks Clear plastic cups Picket fence cupcake wrappers Shovel-shaped dessert spoons

Prepare the "Dirt" Begin by crushing your chocolate wafers until they resemble fine crumbs. Set them aside in a bowl. These crumbs will be the base of your "Dirt Cake."

Create the Chocolate Layers

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cold milk and the chocolate instant pudding mix until it thickens. This should take about 2 minutes. Allow it to set for another 5 minutes.

Add the Whipped Cream Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully combined.

Assemble the Layers In clear plastic cups, layer your "Dirt Cake" as follows: A spoonful of crushed chocolate wafers at the bottom (the "dirt").

A layer of the creamy chocolate pudding mixture.

End with a layer of crushed chocolate wafers on top to resemble the

Serve with Shovel-shaped Dessert Spoons

Take the whimsy to the next level by serving your "Dirt Cake" with dessert spoons shaped like shovels. This playful touch will have your guests digging into their delightful desserts with a smile.

Add Whimsical Garden Decorations Place a Peter Rabbit pick in each cup, standing tall amidst the "garden." Add small garden vegetable-shaped candies to complete the whimsical scene.

Presentation is Key To make your "Dirt Cake" even more charming, serve it in clear plastic cups, nestled within picket fence cupcake wrappers. These will enhance the garden party theme.

The "Dirt Cake" is not only delicious but also a delightful addition to any garden party. Its easy preparation makes it suitable for beginners, while its whimsical presentation guarantees smiles all around. As your guests scoop into layers of "dirt" and creamy goodness, they'll be transported to a whimsical garden filled with Peter Rabbit and garden veggie candies. So, the next time you're planning a garden party, remember to include this charming dessert on your menu, and watch your guests indulge in the magic of the "Dirt Cake." It's a sweet adventure that everyone will cherish.

PEACOCKRIDGEFARM.COM

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Tablescapes By: Laura Chubineh

English Garden Tablescape: The beaufiful English Garden collection from Fitz and Floyd set the lovely spring tone of this table. Since the bird design of the plates is so intricate, I kept the centerpiece simple with hydrangeas and pink roses. The colors of the flowers bring out the pretty creams, pinks and blues in the plates. I also incorporated woven pieces, like chargers and vases, to play into that cottage garden feel. Jeweled butterfly napkin rings add a touch of sparkle.

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A Wedgwood Mother's Day Tea: I created my centerpiece with acrylic rectangular vases filled with blue hydrangeas, white roses and baby’s breath. Classic and simple but makes such a pretty statement cascading down the table. For the settings I layered a mix of queensware plates and topped the stack with a unique jasperware piece. I also placed Wedgwood teacups as well as acrylic stir sticks, tea pyramids and some yummy scones and meringues for each guest to enjoy.

Outdoor Chinoiserie Table: If you need an easy centerpiece idea, this one is it.

Especially if you’re not into flower arranging. Simply gather your favorite planters (I love chinoiserie!) and add topiary balls and some faux grass. For the settings I mixed white plates with my vintage blue Danube collection and added a Lucy Grymes x Camilla Moss placemat to throw a fun pattern into the mix.

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Tropical Butterfly Garden Outdoor Table: I mixed pink and orange flowers with blue berry stems for my centerpiece arrangements and sprinkled lots of brightly colored fruits throughout for a tropical flare. I poured pink lemonade for each guest and created mini arrangements at each setting with acrylic vase napkin rings. Woven and bamboo pieces add a fun pop of texture for summer too.

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Whimsical Easter Table with Pink Monarch Butterflies:

Pink monarch butterflies, woven bunnies and eggs, and a basket of flowers create a playful, enchanting setting. I used mostly white and pink hues, but added an unexpected touch with black trimmed napkins to complement the black spots of the butterflies.

By: Laura Chubineh @thespilledsugar March/April 2024

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So many kids are struggling right now with their confidence and I am on a missin to change that!

As a photographer, I began taking Tween Empowerment Photos several years ago and after seeing the profound impact, I knew I had to do more. Their tearful reactions to seeing themselves through the lens of love and surprise affirmations from loved ones, I decided to create a day for these girls.

The 1st Tween Empowerment Day we held was absolutely incredible and life changing. We showered the girls with love, had awesome speakers, a photoshoot, an empowering art project, lots of love and swag. The day is not just about creating beautiful moments but reminding them that they are amazing JUST the way they are! It's about nurturing self-worth and confidence for this impressionable age. I am on a mission to show girls that being a tween is not the awkward age but the awesome age.

Imagine a day filled with laughter, creativity, and genuine connections. Girls will be invited to express themselves on canvas in my cozy art studio, surrounded by supportive peers and uplifting décor. Then, they'll step in front of the camera to capture their inner radiance, receiving both a portrait and an art canvas to remind them of their inner and outer beauty.

It's not just about the activities; it's about creating a safe haven where every girl feels valued and cherished – a no judgement zone. This will be held at our Flower Farm and Studio, Cedar Hill in Brooks. It provides the perfect backdrop for this transformative experience, with its sprawling acres and gentle horses. Under the shade of a majestic oak tree, girls will be reminded of their beauty, strength, and unique qualities.

We're also committed to giving back. A portion of the ticket proceeds will support Bloom, an organization dedicated to helping foster children bloom into their full potential.

But we can't do this alone. We need your support to make this event truly magical. So, join us in spreading kindness and empowerment. Secure a spot for your special girl today and share the love with friends and family. Let's make a difference together!

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One Roof An Umbrella over People in Crisis

Story and photos by Bonnie Helander

In 2007, a concerned group of community leaders and pastors in Coweta County met to brainstorm how to be more strategic in helping families in crisis.

They determined that pooling all their resources together under one roof would be most effective… thus One Roof EcumenicalAlliance Outreach was formed. Led by the founding Executive Director, Derenda Rowe, who was already managing the Coweta Community Food Pantry, this cooperative effort proved serendipitous, and One Roof has continued to grow and expand as needs have increased.

The last four years have been a particular challenge for One Roof as the Coweta County community was hit with two back-to-back devastating events – the COVID pandemic that began in March of 2020, and the violent EF-4 tornado that swept through Newnan in March of 2021, displacing families from their homes and creating an urgent need for food, clothing, shelter and counseling.

Ann Kerlin, the current Executive Director of One Roof, believes God led her to the organization “for such a time as this.” She has a PHD in Counseling and a Masters in Divinity and teaches Biblical Counseling at Luther Rice College and Seminary. She started volunteering at One Roofand later became a board member, serving as treasurer and president.

When the former executive director left in 2020, Ann took the leadership reins on a temporary basis, but the COVID shutdown changed her plans, and she continues in her role as executive director. One Roof lost some volunteers and staff due to the pandemic, just as the need for services continued to rise drastically. A year later, when the tornado hit, it sent a shock wave through Newnan, but all the community banded together, cooperated and helped people through the crisis. One Roof was able to help provide ongoing hotel rooms for those displaced by the tornado. Ann is proud and grateful to be part of such a caring community who teamed up to support those who suffered such loss and need.

One Roof has provided material and spiritual support to over 6,000 Coweta County families each year. According to One Roof’s mission statement: “We are a people serving the Lord, working with families in crisis in Coweta County, offering food, clothing, financial assistance, shelter and counseling.”

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The community response has been encouraging. This past holiday season One Roof received enough food donations to put together 400 holiday food baskets, including a turkey for Thanksgiving and a ham for Christmas. Through the generosity of the Newnan Junior Service League, members (along with local churches, clubs and businesses) helped collect over 170,000 cans of food for the holidays and the coming year!

Clients who avail themselves of One Roof’s services are so appreciative that someone cares. Some of the comments Ann has heard include, “You are all such a blessing. You are always so kind and helpful to my family.” “Wonderful people doing wonderful outreach.” “They go out of their way to help the community and put back into the community. You couldn’t ask for better people up there as well.”

How You Can Help?

Pray. Add One Roof and its clients to your prayer list and pray for how you can help!

Contribute Financially. Financial support is vital to help keep One Roof’s doors open and effectively help those in Coweta County who are in need. Your on-going or one-time contribution makes an impact! Checks made out to One Roof can be sent to P.O. Box 916, Newnan, GA 30264.

Donate. The Thrift Store accepts gently-used or new items anytime the store is open from Monday - Saturday, 10 am. - 4 p.m. Those treasures you no longer use or need may make a world of difference to families in Coweta County!

The Food Pantry continually needs donations of food items to keep the shelves well stocked. The pantry can always use peanut butter and jelly, tuna, fruit, condiments, baking goods, shelfstable milk, meat, eggs, cereal, macaroni noodles and staples.

Individually packaged items for the kids, homeless or senior bags, are much appreciated, as well as personal care items, such as shampoo, soap, toothpaste, etc.

One Roof’s “Working Cars for Working Folks’ program is accepting working cars to donate to families who need to get to work.

Volunteer. Volunteers are needed to conduct food drives in their workplace, church, neighborhood or club affiliations. Food, personal care items and cleaning supplies are always appreciated. Volunteers can also assist in the food pantry or the thrift store.

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Services Provided Food Pantry – The Coweta Community Food Pantry has been a mainstay since 1985. Clients are able to visit the pantry twice per month to pick up a pre-sorted box of staples, canned goods, breads, fresh fruits and vegetables (when available), and meat or poultry. The value of each box of groceries is about $100! Food needs can be customized to the household and can include special kids’ bags, senior food bags, and boxes for those who are homeless or staying in a hotel. Personal care kits, containing items like shampoo, toothpaste, soap and other essentials are also available. The Food Pantry is open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 1-4 p.m. at 253 Temple Avenue, Newnan.

Clothing Distribution - A winter clothing distribution is on-going during the winter months. Stop by the One Roof office, located at 255 Temple Ave., Newnan, on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, from 14p.m., to receive coats, gloves, hats and other items for cold weather.

The Thrift Shop also offers the opportunities for individuals in need to receive necessary clothing, household goods and/or furniture.

Financial Assistance - One Roof may be able to assist with bill paying to help transition someone through a rough time and help families stay together in a stable and healthy environment. Financial assistance applications for rent, utilities, and emergency housing are handled at the office, located at 255 Temple Avenue, Newnan, by appointment on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, from 1- 4 p.m. All financial assistance requires a personal interview. Please bring ID and all relevant paperwork to your appointment. Financial assistance is only available once per household.

Counseling – A grant from the Coweta County Commissioners/ARPA funds has allowed One Roof to offer a free online counseling session, or $50 toward the service of a mental health care provider. In partnership with the school district, One Roof is doing some group work with children.

Gas Cards/Transportation – The same grant also provides funding to give a $50 gas card (one per household) to residents of the county who need assistance getting to work or to other necessary services. Or, the grant can be used to contract with the Lyft service for rides.

Thrift Store – The store is one of the main revenue streams for One Roof, using the funds received to pay basic bills and to support their vital programs and services. The community is encouraged not only to shop often at the store (where most items cost about $3 - $5) but to donate gently used items so that others can enjoy them. The store is located at 251 Temple Avenue and open Monday – Saturday from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.

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For more information or assistance, please call the One Roof office at 770-683-7705 or email Assist@Oneroofoutreach.org.

Please note that Coweta County residents are only accepted as clients. The office is located at 255 Temple Avenue, Newnan, GA 30263.

FAYETTE HUMANE SOCIETY’S 4TH ANNUAL

FORE THE

PAWS

Braelinn Golf Club Peachtree City April 12, 2024 Squadron flyover starts at 10:00 a.m.

Charity Golf Tournament

Raising funds for the care and comfort of over 1,600 needy animals throughout the year!

The entry fee for the four-person scramble is $150 per golfer, which covers a cart and green fee, lunch, refreshments, a goody bag, a commemorative digital photo, and an awards presentation, and raffle drawings with deejay entertainment and a tapas bar. There will also be special appearances by adoptable pets and baby farm animals to cheer on theplayers.

“This is a golf outing that speaks to the animal lover in us,” says Kimberly Castaneda, who co-chairs the event with FHS Board Member Penny Molis. “With our community’s generous ongoing support, we were able to raise over $29,000 last year, and we’re well on our way to selling out the event for a fourth straight year.”

As always, 100% of proceeds from the tournament will be used to fund the FHS spay and neuter program and to pay for the vaccinations and medical treatments of around 1,600 needy animals in foster care each year. Incorporated in 1973, FHS is the oldest nonprofit humane society in Fayette County, and it is staffed entirely by volunteers.

Not a golfer? Or interested in additional ways to support the event? Donations are currently being accepted for raffle prizes, and a variety of sponsorships are available from $250 to $2,000 that offer valuable exposure for businesses.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE EVENT, OR TO REGISTER AND SPONSOR ONLINE, VISIT THE FHS WEBSITE AT

WWW.FAYETTEHUMANE.ORG/GOLF-TOURNAMENT/.

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1 YEAR (6 ISSUES) FOR $39

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IV THERAPY TREATMENTS

New online store!

Featuring many of our most popular supplements.

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HEALTH & WELLNESS CENTER

770.964.5230 | trilogywellness.com 510 Swanson Road | Tyrone

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Hiiiii!

Taylor Marsh

here with the latest tips, tricks, and trends for this spring of 2024.

Starting off with our Easter Pastel trending colors. My model ( Madelyn. H ) was transformed to a beautiful blonde. Her extensions are colored with my favorite color line, Pulp Riot.

Sea Glass (green), Lilac (light lavender), and Desert Sky (light orange).

Now that we are on top of our spring color trends, let's talk about one of my favorite DIY to do at home! We are going to need our one perfect ingredient called ROSEMARY !

Rosemary is a culinary and healing herb. This woody perennial is native to the Mediterranean region, where it’s been used as food and medicine for centuries. The idea that rosemary oil encourages hair growth may come from the rosemary’s basic health benefits. The plant in essential oil form is said to have anti-inflammatory properties, promote nerve growth, and improve circulation. This key ingredient can help with dandruff, itchy scalp, prevent hair follicles from being starved of blood supply, dying off, leading to hair loss and prevents premature graying.

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Bring one cup of filter water to a boil and add a hand full of rosemary leaves Add hand full of mint leaves .

Stir well then turn heat off .

Let it set for 20 minutes and let it cool down .

Once cooled , add 1 tsp of apple vinegar and stir well.

Strain your rosemary water in a spray bottle and you're done .

Spray directly on roots and massage your scalp.

Use 1 to 2 times a week.

Keep off skin.

Rosemary can irritate some people.

Keep off skin. Apply on scalp and hair only.

Don't use too frequently

I am a lifestyle blogger living in a small town, Tyrone, about 25 miles south of Atlanta. Born in Texas, I migrated to California in my twenties where I met my husband. We moved to Georgia in 2000 and have raised a son and a daughter here. Both are attending out of state colleges and are enjoying their universities, making new friends along their way from all over the country.

Making new friends is something I enjoy too, as I love people! The goal of my blog is to bring a small amount of joy to someone’s day by sharing recipes, décor and gardening ideas. I am ridiculously passionate about these and my holiday decor has been posted on Frontgate , Grandin Road, Horchow and William Sonoma. I also enjoy the feedback I receive and hearing of others’ ideas and similar experiences. Occasional giveaways on my social media platforms is fun for me and my readers. The giveaways are my favorite part of hosting a blog.

My other interests include photography, traveling, visiting my children, and, shamefully, investigating ghost stories along the way. I sometimes post of these road experiences and always like hearing of others’ exploits, seeing their pictures, and receiving destination or activity recommendations.

Southern Baked Pies Can you share a m emorable story or moment from your that involves baki childhood ng or pies?

When I was very young, I would pu ll a chair up to my and help her cook grandmother, Betty . My granddaddy ’s, kitchen counter would always wa lk by and scold my letting me climb up grandmother for there. He would sa y, “Betty Ann, Am chair, hurt herself anda’s going to fa , or either burn he ll out of that rself cooking like th burnt myself stirr at wi th yo u.” Sure as the wo ing the homemad rld, I e gravy one day in burnt my hand on the electric skillet.

I fell forward and the skillet. He wa s right, as usual. O the top of my left ha lder and wiser, I sti nd, and occasiona ll have the scar on lly as I’m co oking, I glance at think of granddad it, giggle a little, an dy in heaven look d ing down on me.

What is your personal favorite pie flavor and why?

Chocolate chess pie - I could eat a slice a day! In fact, the first two years of business, I would get to the pie shop every morning around 5:30am, and I would always make the chocolate chess pies first. The minute they came out of the oven, I would slice one for my breakfast. I did this every day for first few years. I swear it kept me alive on the long days. It certainly gave me some energy, which I needed!

What is your favorite part about running Southern Baked Pie Company and why?

I love good food….and especially great desserts. I believe every meal should end with a bit of something deliciously sweet, yet perfectly balanced. I’m quite selective in what I will eat, and from where. It gives me joy to create products I love, feel comfortable feeding my family, enjoy eating myself, and get to share with the world.

I also love the challenges that come with owning Southern Baked. I’m a natural problem solver. Problems arise every day in business, and I get the joy, and sometimes the frustration, of trying to solve them. I’m a firm believer that proper planning prevents poor performance, so I love teaching my teams about the importance of following good processes that will ensure their success and lead to less problems overall.

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Can you share some of the most popular sweet and savory pie flavors that you offer?

Our most popular pie by far is the caramel pecan pie. We won the “Flavor of Georgia” award back in 2016 with this fan-favorite. Out of 135 other contenders, we won with a pecan pie that was thawed from frozen! I forgot to make the judge’s pecan pie the night before the competition, so I called my husband in a panic that morning, and he said, “Well, swing by the bakery and I’ll send you with a frozen one, because that’s all we have.” So, it thawed on the way to the competition and we won 1st Place! If that doesn’t tell you how good it is, I don’t know what does. INSIDER TIP: Serving the caramel pecan pie frozen is amazing too – it’s like a pecan pie candy bar, and it’s my husband’s favorite way to eat it!

What most people don’t realize is that we offer a variety of savory pies too. Chicken pot pie, pot roast pie, and our Southwestern taco pies are some of our most popular dinner flavors. Simply pull a pie from the freezer, pop it in the oven, and dinner is served in one hour! Pies keep frozen up to 6 months, so you can stock your freezer to enjoy any time you don’t want to cook.

How do you maintain the quality and consistency of your pies as you ship them nationwide?

We ship with dry ice and cold packs, and all our pies arrive perfectly. It’s amazing. We have done blind taste tests for years to see if anyone could taste any difference in a fresh versus a frozen/shipped pie, and the results are insane. No one can ever tell the difference! That’s why I always say they make such wonderful gifts to ship. It took us years of trial and error to get shipping down to a science, but I feel confident saying we have perfected it.

What role does customer feedback play in shaping your products and services?

Customer feedback is critical. I still read every single chat and review that comes through our website. Someone on my team once tried to remove messages from coming straight to my inbox, thinking they were helping to free up my load, and I almost panicked. The chats people send us and emails they take the time to write, are my way of learning what my customers want and need. I LOVE reading customer reviews and feedback. Their reviews and thoughts are what inspire me to be better, to create more products they love, and to change things about our current products.

What sets Southern Baked Pie Company apart from other pie companies?

It’s our all-butter crust and our recipes. We don’t make funky flavors. We stay with classic flavors. We make the pies people grew up loving and craving, like pecan pie and traditional apple pie. We make all our pies by hand. We don’t cut corners, and we don’t use cheap ingredients. I made a commitment years ago to only make my pies with ingredients I would feed my kids. I’m very selective about what I feed my children, so I figured that was the highest standard I could set. And it has made all the difference. We make the pies like our mothers and grandmothers used to make them – with clean, simple ingredients and with lots of love.

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What is the most rewarding aspect of seeing customers enjoy your pies?

Watching them pause for a moment, when they take the first bite, and then slowly watching the corners of their mouths turn up as they smile with joy, is the best gift in the world! I love when people tell me their stories of how the pies remind them of past family members and childhood memories. People share their most treasured family stories with me of cooking/baking with loved ones, and other precious family moments. Pie is nostalgic. It makes people think of fond memories from the past - of slower days and togetherness. It’s truly a universal connector.

What is your vision for the future of Southern Baked Pie Company?

My vision is to keep providing a nostalgic taste of the past - to keep making pies by hand that make you weak at the knees when you take a bite, because they are so tender, buttery, flaky, and delicious. I plan to franchise soon, so that my pies can be enjoyed by more and more people everywhere. We already ship pies nationwide, but it would be my dream to have Southern Baked pie shops all over the country for people to stop in and enjoy a classic slice of pie.

Are there any plans for expand the company or introducing new products in the future?

My dad used to say, “If it isn’t broke, don’t fix it.” We’ve had some of the same products for 11 years and if I removed them, I think people would be brokenhearted. Our pies are timeless and classic, with flavors people want to enjoy time and time again. We do plan, however, to franchise very soon. We also plan to release soon new, limited-edition pies. You will have to follow our email and texts to find out more!

Hello Spring

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Air Fryer Goat Cheese Balls

y t a K r ve a e W WHAT WE ARE

having

It’s grilling and cookout season! I’ve got a variety of recipes for you guys, from the grill, to sides, and a cocktail! If you don’t want to be out in the heat or heat up the kitchen, I also have a Summer inspired airfryer recipe as well. Cheers to great recipes and Southern Summer heat!

Follow me on Instagram and Facebook for more easy recipes: @WHATWEAREHAVING

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Ingredients: 10.5oz Goat Cheese Rolled into balls 2 egg - beaten ½ cup of flour 1 cup of panko bread crumbs mixed with 2 TBS garlic powder Olive oil spray Hot honey, truffle oil, thyme Roll your goat cheese balls in flour, then egg, and panko mix.

Once all of the balls have been coated, place in the freeze for 20 minutes.

Preheat airfryer to 380°, when ready place goat cheese balls in the air fryer and spray with olive oil spray.

Cook at 380° for 9 minutes. Serve immediately topped with hot honey, truffle oil, and thyme.

ARUGALA TRUFFLE SIDE SALAD Ingredients: 2-4 Cups Fresh Arugula 1 TBSP Truffle Oil 1/4 Cup Fresh Shaved Parmesan Balsamic Glaze Salt

Thai-Style Peanut Chicken Salad

Top fresh arugula with all remaining ingredients.

Ingredients: ½ Cup Peanut Butter 2 TBSP Honey 2 TBSP Soy Sauce : 1 Lime Zested & eiger • 1lb Chicken - Cooked & Shredded • ¼ Cup Red Cabbage - Chopped • 2 Green Onions - Chopped • 1 Handful Edamame - Cooked • 2 TBSP Peanuts - Crushed In a bowl, whisk the first 5 ingredients to make the sauce. Add in remaining ingredients, eat immediately or save for up to 4 days.

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Crunchy Jalapeño Apple Salad with Gorgonzola Cheese & Pistachios

Ingredients: (salad) 2 Apples - sliced thin 2 Cups of Broccoli Slaw 1 Jalapeño - sliced ¼ Cup Pistachios ¼ Cup Gorgonzola Cheese - crumbled Ingredients: (dressing) 2 TBS Mayonnaise 1. TBS Olive Oil 2. TSP Garlic - minced 1-½ TSP Honey 1-½ TBS Apple Cider Vinegar Whisk dressing ingredients; refrigerate until ready to use.

In a bowl, mix all salad ingredients, tossing with dressing mixture. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Caprese Pasta Salad Ingredients: 2 Cups Tomatoes - Chopped (any variety) 1lb Orecchiette - Cooked al dente 1 cup Fresh Mozzarella Balls (small) 1 cup Fresh Basil - Rough Chopped ¼ Cup Olive Oil ¼ Cup Balsamic Glaze In a bowl, mix all ingredients thoroughly. Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for 2 hours up to overnight.

Top with extra fresh chopped basil.

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Ten Tips

to age your Garden and Add Old World Charm Story and Photos by Bonnie Helander

All who live in the South understand the mystique of an old Southern garden – a space that evokes nostalgia, romance, lazy afternoons, and a sense of place. After I moved back home to Georgia, I started studying beautiful, mature, gardens and taking notes on what made them feel aged and mysterious, so I could incorporate some of these qualities into my own landscape. Yes, even a new garden can express the feeling of old world charm and grace. Try these ten simple tips to capture the magic of “days gone by” and make your garden feel older.

50 SOUTHERN WOMAN

1

Get inspiration from classic Southern public gardens.

Start your quest to “age” your garden by visiting established public gardens with the vibe you are looking to copy.Winter and early spring is the perfect time to visit, when trees are dormant and you can study the structure of the gardens. Southern gardens recommend include Hills & Dales Estate in LaGrange, GA., Barnsley Gardens in Adairsville, GA., Biltmore Gardens in Asheville, NC., Sarah Duke Gardens in Durham, NC., Middleton Place in Charleston, S.C., Brookgreen Gardens near Pawleys Island, S.C., Monticello in Charlottesville, VA., and Ladew Topiary Gardens in Monkton, MD.

2

Begin with evergreen.

When someone talks about a garden having “good bones,” they are referring to the over-all structure of the garden. Evergreen foundational plantings (hedges and borders) provide the year-round backdrop a garden needs to look inviting in any season. Add trees with interesting branch structure and bark, so even in the winter, you have some interest and texture incorporated within your evergreen plantings.

4 3

Shape the space.

Hardscapes (pathways, walls, boulders, arbors) also contribute to the structure and old world charm of the garden. For an “older” look, design curving pathways and fill in with pea gravel, pebbles and stepping stones. If you want to go all-out Southern, add oyster shell gravel to your pathways! Place boulders strategically in spots for added texture. Look for vintage, weathered bricks to build walls. Often you can find the remnants of old walls or leftover bricks and boulders in the woods or at a salvage yard, or you can ask builders for them when they are doing a tear-down.

Age your hardscapes with buttermilk and yogurt

If you can’t find any original old materials for your stone or brick walls, you can soften the appearance of new masonry by slathering buttermilk on it and keeping it moist! This is a trick often used by garden designers. Buttermilk or yogurt encourages moss and lichen growth, speeds up the aging process and gives a weathered patina. You can also create a stain using different strengths of a tea or coffee brew.

There are numerous recipes online to address aging your hardscape.

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5

Move in the moss.

I have never understood why many homeowners want to kill any moss in their yards! Instead, encourage moss growth in those low, wet areas and use any excess moss in other areas of the garden. Not only does moss protect the soil, but it cuts down on soil erosion. Old Southern gardens are filled with touches of lichen and moss – you find these on rocks, among the pebbles of pathways, and growing on benches and pots.

There is something mysterious and calming about moss. I have a Koi pond with a waterfall that splashes the rocks around the pond continually. It did not take long for the rocks to be covered with a beautiful coating of moss, giving the pond a natural and aged look. If you want to add more moss to the garden, research an online recipe to encourage moss to grow, using a slurry mixture of chopped-up moss and yogurt and/or buttermilk to paint on rocks or walls. Do incorporate moss into your garden plan, but keep it off you house because it can cause damage.

6

Select paints from historic color collections that evoke Charleston, Savannah and Williamsburg Every major paint company has a historic palette of paint colors that echo a certain time period and style. Fences, decks, garden sheds and other hardscapes look fabulous in one of these graceful, classic colors. One of my favorites is Baize Green, from the Charleston Collection by Sherwin Williams.

7

Look for old terracotta pots or formal cement pots.

Containers, by themselves, or filled with flowering plants make a wonderful statement in the garden. Recycle thoseplastic containers and scout for old, unglazed terracotta pots which have a warmbrown/orange patina. If you can afford it, invest in some terracotta pots from Italy. One online company to consider is Seibert and Rice.

If you can’t find or can’t afford old, weathered, terracotta containers, you can buy inexpensive new terracotta pots and use the yogurt/buttermilk trick to mimic the old. It is amazing how quickly the pots gain the aged look.

Concrete containers like you see in formal gardens in Europe always evoke a sense of age and elegance. For concrete garden ornaments, visit Casa Montano, in nearby Fairburn, GA., the workshop of Carlos Montano, a superb artist who creates beautiful cement garden accessories, including birdbaths, containers, fountains, benches and classic sculptures.

8

Add vintage fabrics to seating areas

Cushions, pillows, umbrellas, and rugs in classic colors will add to the old world vibe and give a pop of color to your garden. Toile, flowered, medallion and damask patterns are styles that will provide that European flair. You can find vintage fabrics online on sites like Etsy.

9

Honor the past with heirlooms.

I remember how wonderful my grandmother’s garden used to smell. She grew old-fashioned, pass-along plants, often referred to as heirlooms, and she saved the seeds at the end of the growing season for the coming years. Heirlooms are defined as plants grown locally that have been passed down from generation to generation through families, friends or neighbors. Heirloom plants are all open pollinated – meaning the seeds will stay true to type (like the original plant) each time they are used.

These plants, which have been around for at least 50 years, tend to be tough, often have a heady fragrance and large blooms, and are well adapted to our environment.

Just the scent alone of heirloom plants can create a sense of nostalgia!

Fragrant heirloom plants include bee balm, old-fashioned climbing petunia, sweet pea, clary salvia, night phlox, moonflower, four-o’clocks, nasturtium, cosmos, and many old-fashioned roses like Heirloom rose, Zephirine Drouhin climbing rose, New Dawn climbing rose, Cecile Brunner climbing rose, Cherokee rose and Peggy Martin. Add one of these climbing roses to a trellis or let it sprawl over a fence or wall and you have created a romanticgarden vignette that takes you back in time.

10

Accessorize with care.

A memorable garden isn’t just about plants, but showcases other focal points for people to savor. To create that aged look, selectively add classic pieces that will draw people farther into the garden. Garden ornaments can include birdbaths, benches, arbors, gates and sculptures. Don’t over accessorize, however. Less is more!

Honor your family history by utilizing favorite hand-medown heirlooms that are meaningful to you. Those beautiful, old pieces of china that your grandmother prized, but nobody now wants, can be turned into charm in the garden. Teacups can house small plants, or can be filled with seeds to feed the birds. A larger piece, like a soup tureen, can be a container for a larger plant. Don’t’ forget to drill a small drainage hole! Did your grandmother have a collection of old watering cans?

What a fabulous focal point that reminds you of her! Vintage farm tools draw the eye attached to a wooden fence.

Accessorize with meaningful objects and share your family history in the garden.

Try a few of these tips in an area of your garden and see how quickly your garden can age and evoke some Southern charm!

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DIY RECIPES TO

Age Terracotta Pots Whitewashing Method:

For an instant aged look, add a small amount of acrylic white paint to a bowl, stir in tap water, and mix well.

Use more water in the mixture for a more whitewashed look and less water for a brighter white look.

Using a foam brush or a rag, rub the paint mixture on the pot, including the bottom and the inside rim, keeping the paint uneven on the pot and letting some of the terracotta show through to give a more natural look.

Pond Water Method:

Place a terracotta pot in the bottom of a pond and for a week or so until you see algae starting to build up on the terracotta to create an aged green cast on the pot.

If you don’t have access to a pond, dunk pot in a bucket of rain water (not tap water) and leave until you see an algae build up.

Buttermilk and Moss Method:

If you have access to some moss, shake or wash off any dirt or debris on the moss.

Cut moss into small pieces and add to a bowl of buttermilk.

Mix well. Using a foam brush, lather the buttermilk/moss mixture liberally on the pot.

Set aside in a shady spot until it reaches the desired look.

Yogurt Method:

Using a sponge or foam brush, liberally apply plain yogurt around the dry terracotta pot.

Slather it on and don’t be concerned about perfect coverage.

Place in a shady spot for one month.

If you want a more subtle look, soak your pot in water before applying the yogurt.

BLACKWATER LEATHER Meet your maker: My name is Seth Holbert and I live in Austin, TX. Ever since I can remember, I wanted to be an artist. In 2023 that dream came true and I was able to bring my work to life through leather.

Early on in my life sports was my passion, and I was able to play division 1 baseball. I was on track to draft high to play professionally but after a severe elbow injury I had to hang up the cleats. I worked in the oil & gas industry for 6 years and really had no long term goal. I struggled with alcohol and depression which also led to trouble. I continued to see the outcome of my poor decisions and finally sought help. With all the turmoil in my life I went back to what I loved to do. Art. I wasn’t quite sure what my medium would be until I stumbled across a video of a man working on a saddle. I knew then that I wanted to learn how to make beautiful art out of leather. I still think saddle work is in my future, but as of right now I love making vehicle interior parts, and belts.

I mention these things because I believe everything happens for a reason. These tough times taught me so much, and made me the person I am today.

I am currently 2 ½ years sober, love Jesus, and have rebuilt relationships with those I pushed away during my struggles. I have to give credit to my savior for showing me the light at the end of the tunnel. I could not be where I am today with our lord, and without my family.

@bw_leather

Friends Table Restaurant and Bar in Peachtree City is the ultimate breakfast destination that will leave your taste buds craving for more!

Step into a world where every bite is a delight, every sip is a sip of happiness, and every moment is filled with warmth and joy. Start your day with locally roasted coffee, fluffy pancakes, or a build-yourown omelet.

Your cravings will be exceeded with every dish served. The cozy ambiance, friendly 56 SOUTHERN WOMAN

staff, and welcoming atmosphere makes every visit memorable. Weather catching up with friends, fueling up for a busy day, or treating yourself, Friends Table is the place to be. Enjoy good food, good company, and good times at Friends Table.

Don’t miss the shrimp and grits or Benedict’s for an unforgettable breakfast experience.

238 City Circle Suite 1020 PTC, GA | Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner | Friends Table

Matt Neely Ph: 770.527.3260 Email: avalanchehomes@gmail.com Follow: Avalanche Homes, Inc