September & October 2024

Southern Woman | September/ October 2024 | Issue 21 | southernwoman.com

SEPTEMBER|OCTOBER 2024 • ISSUE 21 •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.

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SOUTHERN Publisher Melanie Denney Haas melanie.southernwoman@gmail.com Creative Director Paige Coppett paige.southernwoman@gmail.com

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Hey Y'all!

As we bid farewell to the vibrant hues of summer, we joyfully welcome the enchanting season of fall here in the South. The crisp air, cozy sweaters, and the familiar scent of pumpkin-spiced delights envelop us in a comforting embrace that is uniquely Southern.

In the latest edition of Southern Woman Magazine, we exalt in the beauty and opulence of the autumn season with a Southern flair.

From the picturesque landscapes adorned with the rich tapestry of red, orange, and gold leaves to the delightful aroma of freshly baked apple pies that grace our homes, there is an undeniable charm that accompanies this time of year.

As the temperatures begin to drop, we invite you to snuggle up with a steaming cup of apple cider and immerse yourself in the captivating content of this issue. We have meticulously curated a selection of articles that capture the essence of fall in the South, including fashion trends to keep you stylish during transitional weather and delectable recipes to warm your heart and soul.

Fall is not only a season of reflection and gratitude but also a time to explore and savor the delights of other cultures. Join us on a global adventure as we delve into around-the-world travels and culinary recipes from various countries. Discover the diverse flavors and traditions that enrich our world and bring a touch of international flair to your autumn table.

As we cherish the simple pleasures and cherish moments with loved ones, let us also remember to care for ourselves and our community.

This October, as we observe Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Blood Cancer Awareness Month, let us unite in promoting early detection and supporting those affected by these diseases.

As we embark on this autumnal journey together, we hope that Southern Woman Magazine continues to be your trusted companion, offering inspiration, entertainment, and a touch of Southern charm. We deeply appreciate your ongoing support and eagerly anticipate sharing the joys of fall with you.

Wishing you a season filled with warmth, love, and the myriad blessings that autumn brings.

Blessings,

Melanie Denney-Haas Publisher, Owner

ZACKIE HART

I started Zackie Hart about 4 years ago online and did many pop-ups around downtown Senoia and Newnan while daydreaming of the day I would be able to finally open my first brick and mortar! My goal was to open a women’s boutique showcasing apparel with high quality while bringing in brands that you can’t find at other boutiques around us. I want every person who comes to Zackie Hart to feel confident, seen, and beautiful, so I try to bring in a wider range of sizes and styles for a variety of different body types. I’m excited to announce that we have finally opened our doors in downtown Senoia and couldn't be more grateful for this outstanding community that has welcomed us and shown so much love toward me chasing this dream of mine, while being a mom of a 3 and 1-year-old boys.

33 Barnes Street Suite A Senoia, Ga

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

In This Issue

Home & Garden

Health & Wellness

3 PUBLISHER‘S LETTER From Melanie Denney-Haas

14 WHAT MAKES A HOUSE A HOME

By Deena Attia

6 BREAST CANCER PATIENT Shapes Perspective

36 LOCAL EVENTS September & October Events

30 THE BEAUTY OF THE FOUR SEASONS

By Deena Attia

37 OUT & ABOUT With Southern Woman

28 FALL READING LIST Southern Woman Book Society

29 MEET THE AUTHOR Kimberly Brock

Features 10 A TRIBUTE TO FRIENDS TABLE

By Deena Attia

16 SISTAHS WITH AUSOME CHILDREN

Q&A

22 FALL COLORS AT GIBBS GARDEN

By Bonnie Helander

Arts, Culture, & Travel 32 ROCK CITY Magical Autumn Splendor

Food 12 ALO FARMS Connecting the Community through Healthy Food

38 WHAT WE ARE HAVING

With Katy Weaver

41 Fall Sips Recipes

Beauty 45 AMAZON MUST HAVES

By Southern Woman

September/October 24

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Experience as

Breast Cancer Patient Shapes Perspective for Piedmont Fayette Team Member Story By- Michael Boylan

Breast cancer was rampant in Mary Hinely’s family in addition to aunts and cousins who were diagnosed with the disease, her sister beat breast cancer over 20 years ago - so the former manager of patient experience at Piedmont Fayette Hospital knew she had to take care of herself. She stayed up to date with annual mammograms, and ate healthy, but one day something just didn’t look right. She contacted her primary care physician, Samer Blackmon, M.D., who scheduled a diagnostic mammogram for Hinely right away. Due to dense breast tissue, 3-D tomography was performed.

Sroka, M.D., a highly regarded breast surgeon at Piedmont Fayette. “I was there when Dr. Sroka won an award for the highest patient satisfaction scores among all of the Piedmont physicians, and meeting her as a patient I could see why her scores were so high,” Hinely said.

“She walked us through the whole process in the meeting and scheduled more tests to determine whether the cancer had spread or not. She provided all of the options available and gave recommendations, but she reminded me that it was my choice.”

Hinely’s Piedmont family surrounded her and her family with love on the day of her surgery, and she was home the next day. Although it appeared that the cancer had been removed and contained, in a follow-up appointment, it was discovered that the cancer had spread to Hinely’s lymph nodes. “I was devastated because that meant chemotherapy, which was my biggest fear, and radiation treatments,” Hinely said. “I chose the most aggressive treatment, but the trade-off with my oncologist, Dr. Patel, was that I would also practice some integrative medicine (nutrition, meditation, yoga, and acupuncture).”

Instead of a traditional mammogram, which produces one image, tomography takes multiple images in onemillimeter slices and produces a 3D image of the breast. This is especially beneficial for the radiologist to analyze the complexities of breast tissue and can also provide women with dense breast tissue a better image than a traditional mammogram. “They saw something and wanted to do some further testing, so there was an ultrasound and then a biopsy,” Hinely said. “The breast biopsy is pretty intense, but the staff was so caring, and the nurse explained everything they were doing the whole time.”

The next day, Hinely got the diagnosis that it was breast cancer. “Even though I knew the chances were high, it was still completely shocking,” Hinely said.

Hinely and her family jumped into action to develop a plan. Her first stop was an appointment with Nicole 6

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Mary and Tina Wiggins

Have you had your mammogram this year?

Mary and her si ster

Elizabeth at on e of Mary’s 16 ch emo appointmen ts

The aggressive treatment consisted of 16 rounds of heavy-duty chemotherapy and 25 radiation treatments.

The chemotherapy was as tough as she had imagined, but Hinely was never alone. She also found the acupuncture helped with most, if not all, of the side effects. There were still bad days, however. She lost 30 pounds and saw both her red blood counts and white blood counts drop at one point. “It was definitely the darkest time, but the light was there, and I could see it coming,” Hinely said, adding that the day she rang the bell to mark the end of her chemotherapy was emotional. “There were a lot of people outside waiting for me, people who had cheered me on the whole way.”

“After a one-month break, Hinely began radiation treatments and reunited with Tina Wiggins, a nurse she had worked with 30 years ago in the operating room.

Wiggins is a nurse in radiation oncology, and, just like when they had been paired up in the OR, she took Hinely under her wing again. Hinely had a treatment every day, five days a week, for five weeks. It was how she started every day before going to work. There were challenges, but she was blown away by the kindness and compassion of the staff in Radiation Oncology.

Hinely rang the bell marking the end of radiation therapy and the end of treatment, once again surrounded by her family and colleagues from Piedmont Fayette.

In addition to a team of doctors and nurses, Hinely also worked with Corey Tolbert, a nutritionist who specializes in nutrition for oncology patients, Michelle Long, an exercise physiologist who works on strength training with breast cancer patients before and after surgery, and Alison Franklin, an occupational therapist who also helps patients recovering from cancer who have lymphedema and scar tissue. “I felt so blessed to have so many of these services here under one roof, or so close by,” Hinely said. “I also believe that becoming a patient gave me insight I could never learn in a book, and it really deepened my compassion.”

After completing her treatment, Hinely made some changes in her life. One of the biggest changes was shifting her career to working with Cancer Wellness at Piedmont Fayette to bring the program to the bedside. She began teaching September/October 24

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breathwork, guided meditation, and movement to patients, both in the hospital and in the outpatient infusion center. She also began to train other contractors who work with oncology patients at the hospital. One of her favorite parts of the job is leading the fifth week of a 12-week survivorship program where she teaches mind and body tools for stress reduction. Hinely’s cancer journey also changed the way she views life in general.

“We are only here for so long,” Hinely said. “Life can be truly amazing, so we have to ask ourselves if we are living the life we truly want to live.” For Hinely, that meant tending to familial relationships and friendships, traveling more, and doing the things that help others. “Working with the Cancer Wellness program and (director of oncology) Cat Hoffman has been incredible and inspiring,” Hinely said. “We’ve had so many success stories, whether it is with the lymphedema support group, the Evolve Program, or the yoga and tai chi classes that are so popular they have waitlists. I’m just glad to be able to support the team that supported me.”

“Hinely’s advice to all women is to have regular screenings, whether there is a history of breast cancer in the family or not. For women diagnosed with breast cancer, she recommends gathering your team, getting as much support as possible, and making decisions that feel right for you. “It’s important to have your plan,” Hinely said. “But be open to change as there will be twists and turns along the way.”

Mary and her si ster Elizabeth on the Royal Mile in Scotland. The si Edinburgh, sters dreamed ab out and research during Mary’s ch ed the trip emo appointmen ts, finally makin g it a reality in 2023.

To learn more about oncology services at Piedmont, visit piedmont.org/cancer.

OCT BER BREAST CANCER

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A T R I B U T E TO FRIENDS TABLE By: Deena Attia

“True hospitality consists of giving the best of yourself to your guests.”

-Eleanor Roosevelt

Friday, July 12, I found my way to a familiar and comfortable spot, Friends Table. Jeanine Duke was playing her guitar and singing some classic songs. She entertained the dinner crowd often. It was the first time I had sat alone for dinner, and I could observe and get the true sense of why Constanze and Boutros had changed the name to Friends Table. The bar and tables were filled with friends or family sharing meals, laughing, and genuinely enjoying the atmosphere of the well-loved gathering spot. Over the years, I remember meeting friends often for a meal, coffee, dessert, or wine.

Most recently, a visit for a glass of wine turned into a bottle of tequila with a couple of shot glasses on the table. Boutros knows tequila, and we certainly enjoyed the conversation and appreciated his generosity.

The story of Friends Table began well before it opened on October 18, 2018, as Highland Bakery. Boutros and Constanze have a long history of work in the hospitality industry. They met in Switzerland while attending a hotel and hospitality school. Their dream of opening a restaurant to make fresh food for their customers started around 2016. There was a lot of planning, and it took nearly a year to find the location.

This restaurant offered Peachtree City not only the perfect central meeting spot at the Avenue but also fresh, nourishing meals. The recipes were made from scratch, and the quality of the food was paramount. Constanze’s parents always cooked fresh meals, and Boutros’s father was a farmer.

“Good food is the foundation of genuine happiness.”-Auguste Escoffier On January 1, 2023, they revealed the new name, Friends Table. Since they had a full bar and had been serving dinner, they wanted the name to be more indicative of offering a full menu and being open for all occasions.

Friends Table certainly made a name for themselves in the community. They catered to the film crews with their healthy menu options. They were able to accommodate the varied dietary requests. I often saw trays of their baked goods at events they supported. They frequently gave to schools, churches, and public service agencies.

They were an asset to our town in many ways.

Restaurant ownership always has challenges with long hours, fluctuating food costs, and finding the right team.

Still, Boutros and Constanze were fortunate to have many employees with them long-term. They were able to ride the rough waves during Covid and the strike that impacted the film industry, which impacted a big part of their catering business.

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Some of Constanze’s favorite memories were the guest interactions. Friends Table was a site for first dates, baby showers, birthdays and the meeting spot for many groups. One of the highlights was when Horst Schulze came to the restaurant. He was a co-founder of the Ritz Carlton, and when it comes to the hospitality industry, he is a legend. Perhaps the best day in the restaurant was when they held their 5th-anniversary celebration in October 2023. They will always cherish the parties with their staff; the 5th year milestone was significant.

Recently, their kids started working in the restaurant, too. What a gift to teach your kids the value of hard work and playing an important role in the community.

My last meal that night was sublime. I had the pesto pasta with chicken and shrimp, the only time I had ordered it. Before, my favorite dish was the beef stroganoff. The desserts were equally impressive—not only a feast for the eyes but delicious, too.

The final day they served customers was Sunday, July 14. A couple of weeks later, I sat with Constanze and got her reflections on the entire cycle, from the first thought of opening to what happens now that they have closed and moved out. First, she said, “we are proud of what we accomplished.” The pride she feels knowing they gave their guests healthy and freshly prepared food is one of the reasons that half of their kitchen team had been there since the first year; they stood behind the quality.

“No matter how a guest feels when they come in, we were trying to make their day better, through great food and personalized service. We were not perfect, but we sure gave it our best.”

One of the final ways that confirmed they were doing something right was when the health inspector reached out to say he was sad they were closing.

What will Boutros and Constanze do now? They will support locally owned restaurants, visit all the colleagues working at new jobs in town, and enjoy time with their kids.

“Friends Table might be back one day.” Constanze is hopeful that someone else will continue the mission to bring healthy, fresh food to the community that craves their well-loved recipes in a new location for more celebrations, first dates, and gathering spots for all who love to support small family-owned restaurants.

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Debbi Brown

STORY BY | BONNIE HELANDER

Debbi Brown exudes a presence and a charisma that grabs your attention as soon as you meet her. She looks you in the eye, and talks passionately about what she cares about – her relationship with God, her family, and their mission to provide fresh, delicious, and nutritious food to our community and, especially, to people in need.

Debbi was born in Chattanooga but spent her childhood in Rising Sun, Maryland. Here her family owned and operated Sandy Cove Ministries, a Bible Conference and camp for kids and teens. She grew up attending the camps and later working there as a camp counselor. Debbi’s passion as a child was riding horses, as well as fishing in the Chesapeake Bay. She later attended and graduated from Houghton University, a Christian college in New York, where she received her BA in Psychology. Later, in 2012, Debbie pursued her Masters in Social Services Marriage and Family at Liberty University in Virginia.

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Debbi and husband Jefferson Brown met in Maryland through a mutual friend and were married in 1990. Jefferson, an architect and builder, found work in Georgia, and the family, which now included three sons (Derek, Alec and Huntington) moved to Fayetteville in 1993 and never looked back!

It was in 2008, during the big financial downturn in the country, that Jefferson, owner of Jefferson Brown Architecture in Peachtree City, started seriously researching sustainable alternative farming methods. God had placed on his heart a desire to address the need for healthy food, especially for those with food insecurity. He had taken several medical mission trips around the world and often encountered starving families. According to Jefferson, “It pricked my heart and I thought, ‘Somebody’ needs to do something. And then I realized, ‘No, you need to do something!’”

Jefferson believes God has given him a mission to create communities around a local farm, and to grow the most nutritious and clean food possible – no herbicides, no pesticides, chemical- free and petroleum and fertilizer free. This alternative farm system features combined technologies and proprietary techniques, within an indoor, controlled environment, where the Browns breed, raise, and harvest fish and plants. This aquaculture system benefits food security and better nutrition by increasing food production while maintaining healthy habitats.

Jefferson and Debbi decided to put all their extra income into building an aquaculture greenhouse on their property to cultivate plants and fish. Debbi was terrified, but determined to trust God with this vision. “If God asks you to build an ark, you build an ark!” The Browns were able to build their first aquaculture farm on their property in Fayetteville and another at Jefferson’s architectural firm.

The process of aquaculture is extremely complicated, but they learned together as they built the farm. Debbi admits that she knew nothing initially about the method, but she stuck with it. She worked tirelessly each day, feeding the fish, taking the pH of the water, cleaning the fish tanks, planting and harvesting the plants, all the while knowing that any mistake could kill the fish and the plants and ruin their investment! Often, she worked in the greenhouse when the summer temperatures were well over 100 degrees!

Debbi’s passion and her tenacity to follow God’s and Jefferson’s vision were her motivation to continue the hard work. She eventually took over the operation of the farm at their home. Debbi discovered she had a special connection with the fish and could even read their emotions. She became something of a “Fish Whisperer” and through her ministrations the fish thrived!

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Through her deepest pain and grief, Debbi trusted God to see her through the despair. According to Debbi, “Grief has to be engaged. If you don’t allow yourself to grieve, it will infest your mind and body. Don’t circumvent the healing journey but trust God through it. Allow yourself the time to feel the depth of your pain, but don’t linger in it. You still need to get up, wash your face, walk out the door and do what you have to do. Walk through the fire, and let God truly heal you.” Always generous in sharing what she has learned and what God is teaching her, Debbi believes one of her gifts is compassion - supporting people going through trauma and providing hope in the darkness.

Debbi hopes people will connect to each other as they shop for fresh food at Alō Farms and maybe make a friend or two! She understands the dynamic of good food. For it is gathering around the dinner table and enjoying a meal together that creates special memories.

After four years of maintaining the aquaculture farm on their property and at the architectural firm, the Browns decided to consolidate into one location in the industrial park in Peachtree City. In 2021, they opened Alō Farms. The company offers fresh, delicious and nutritious healing foods, which are free of pesticides, herbicides, other chemicals, and GMO’s (genetically modified organisms).

Debbi continues to come in twice each week as the resident Fish Whisperer to keep her pulse on the health of the 10,000 fish!

A warrior, who faces problems head on and doesn’t quit until she finds a solution, Debbi once had to deal with a daunting crisis at the farm. Returning from a trip, she discovered that all the fish were not eating and seemed to be in a state of semi hibernation. Quickly the Fish Whisperer went to work –hand feeding and calming each of the 10,000 fish individually – a task that took six hours a day, until she successfully nursed all the fish back to optimal health!

Debbi is well acquainted with great joy, but also great sorrow. She lost her brother in 2015 and Jefferson’s sister in 2022. Just two weeks after Jefferson’s sister died, Debbi and Jefferson faced their most heartbreaking challenge.

Their oldest son, Derek, died suddenly, after he had a seizure and fell and hit his head.

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Son, Alec, is now the GM and Chief Operating Officer of Alō Farms. In addition to his responsibilities at the farm, Alec has also started his own business, Beyond Performance (beyondperformance.org) that integrates physical strength training and nutrition with spiritual transformation. Debbi has plans to work with him as a life coach in this exciting endeavor.

Alō Farms is the place to shop in Peachtree City for nutritiously-dense, organic lettuce, herbs, microgreens and hand-raised Mediterranean tilapia fillets. The farm is open every day from 8 a.m. until 7 p.m., and shoppers will enjoy the freshest produce just harvested that day! If you are interested in seeing the aquaculture farm operation, you are invited to schedule a private tour at events@alofarms.com. It’s an amazing experience to witness the lush harvests in this large warehouse space.

Alō Farms is more than just a place to shop for fresh food – it is committed to connecting with and serving those in need. Since they opened their doors, the farm has donated over $500,000 worth of fresh produce to local people facing food insecurity. To that end, the Browns recently launched an exciting new endeavor, the Alō Farms Foundation.

Already the foundation is partnering with local non-profits, including Midwest Food Bank, Real Life Center, Fayette County Schools, the Healing Bridge, veterans groups and church outreaches. The public is invited to get involved by donating monthly to provide a fresh food box to families in need. For example, a $20 monthly donation provides one Family Farm Box of fresh greens that will last a week. For more information about this new, exciting endeavor, go to alofarmsfoundation.org.

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he Inspiring Women Behind Sistahs with Ausome Children In a world where support for families of children with autism can be scarce, three remarkable women have come together to create a community of understanding, empowerment, and advocacy. Simone, Jessica, and Deshawn, the driving forces behind Sistahs with Ausome Children (SWAC), have dedicated themselves to providing a nurturing space for BIPOC mothers and caregivers of autistic children. Their journey is one of compassion, resilience, and unwavering commitment to making a positive impact in the neurodiverse community.

Studio photos by: Davel Photography Makeup by: Sharekia Williams, Vital Brand & Co.

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Q&A

Simone's Story: A Mother's Journey of Hope Simone's inspiration for founding SWAC stemmed from her personal experience with her daughter, Jewel, who was diagnosed with Autism (Level 2) in December 2020. During this challenging time, she realized the importance of finding support from mothers who understood her journey. This led to the creation of the Sistahs With Ausome Children Facebook group, which later evolved into a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting families impacted by autism. Simone's vision for the future of SWAC includes expanding support, advocacy, and awareness for families with autistic children, empowering them to thrive and access the resources they need.

Can you tell us about the inspiration behind founding Sistahs with Ausome Children and the journey that led you to establish this organization?

The inspiration for founding Sistahs with Ausome Children came from my personal experience with my daughter, Jewel, who was diagnosed with Autism (Level 2) on December 22, 2020. During that difficult time, I was in desperate need of support from mothers who looked like me & understood my journey.

How has Sistahs with Ausome Children made a positive impact on families with autistic children, particularly through the social events and resource backpacks you provide?

SWAC has positively impacted BIPOC mothers with autistic children by fostering a sense of community through our social events and providing resource backpacks. These social gatherings allow us to connect, create a village, share experiences, and build supportive relationships.

What motivated you to create the free resource backpacks for families with new autism diagnoses, and how do these resources support families in their journey?

The free resource backpack program was created for families with new autism diagnoses because when my daughter was first diagnosed, I encountered a lot of outdated information and noticed a significant lack of resources and support.

Could you share a success story or a heartwarming moment where Sistahs with Ausome Children's efforts have made a significant difference in the lives of families in the neurodiverse community?

I vividly recall when Jess Gardner (Co-Founder & Executive Director of SWAC), Deshawn Philips (Director of Events & Member Relations, SWAC), and I decided to organize our first in-person event.

How do you envision the future of Sistahs with Ausome Children in terms of expanding support, advocacy, and awareness for families with autistic children?

Oh wow! Great Question. I have big dreams for the future of Sistahs With Ausome Children. I envision our organization growing to offer funding that moms can use in any way that improves their lives.

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As a co-founder of Sistahs with Ausome Children, what motivated you to establish this organization and what are your main goals and initiatives?

My motivation to establish Sistahs with Ausome Children (SWAC) stemmed from my eagerness to be of support to my best friend.

How do you see the role of an Executive Director at SWAC contributing to the support and advocacy for families with autistic children?

As the Executive Director, my role is pivotal in shaping and steering SWAC's mission.

Can you share some challenges you have faced in leading SWAC and how you have worked to overcome them to better serve the community?

One of the primary challenges we face at SWAC is operating with limited resources while striving to meet the diverse needs of our members.

In what ways do you collaborate with local businesses and entities to fulfill SWAC's mission of supporting, advocating, and raising awareness for the neurodiverse community?

Collaboration with local businesses and entities is crucial for SWAC's success.

What achievements or milestones are you most proud of during your time as Co-founder and Executive Director of Sistahs with Ausome Children?

One of the achievements I am most proud of is the roll out of our annual self-care retreat.

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Jessica's Story: A Visionary Leader's Dedication As a co-founder and executive director of SWAC, Jessica is driven by her desire to provide a supportive network for mothers and caregivers. Her main goals include creating spaces for self-care, offering educational resources, and advocating for better support systems and policies.

Jessica's achievements, such as the successful rollout of annual self-care retreats and

Deshawn's Story: Creating Meaningful Experiences for SWAC Members Deshawn plays a crucial role in planning inclusive events that provide meaningful experiences for families with autistic children. Her dedication to fostering strong relationships with SWAC members and staying updated on industry trends ensures that events are tailored to meet the diverse needs of the community, leaving a positive impact on caregivers and families.

How do you approach planning and organizing events for SWAC members to provide meaningful and inclusive experiences for families with autistic children?

When planning events for SWAC members I always think of what's missing for my family or myself when I attend events held by individuals that do not have experience with Neurodivergence.

In your role as Director of Events & Member Relations, how do you foster strong relationships with SWAC members and ensure their needs are met effectively?

I foster strong relationships by effectively and consistently communicating through our social media platforms.

Can you share a memorable event or experience that you have organized for SWAC members that had a positive impact on the community?

Our annual Ice Cream Social is always a "feel-good" memorable event.

How do you stay updated on industry trends and best practices in event management to enhance the offerings and experiences for SWAC members?

Technology, or the internet more specifically, makes staying up to date on industry trends more accessible.

What strategies do you employ to engage with local businesses and partners to enhance the event offerings and support provided to families within the neurodiverse community through SWAC? We continuously participate in community outreach events to ensure the public is aware of the support available via Sistahs with Ausome Children. Through their unwavering dedication and impactful initiatives, Simone, Jessica, and Deshawn are creating a brighter future for BIPOC mothers and caregivers, one event, resource backpack, and supportive network at a time.

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If you want to be inspired by a kaleidoscope of brilliant autumn colors, make Gibbs Gardens one of your “must-see” destinations this season! Located in the foothills of North Georgia, near the quaint town of Ball Ground, the gardens are the vision and passion of Jim Gibbs, owner of Gibbs Landscape Company, who after studying gardens all over the world, determined to build his own world-class garden for the public to enjoy.

After searching for years, Jim Gibbs found his perfect location - 376 acres of rolling hills in North Georgia. The gardens, which include Gibbs’ private residence, the Manor House, comprise over 300 lush acres, with 24 ponds, 32 bridge crossings, 19 waterfalls, six feature gardens, and 18 seasonal gardens, planted for color and interest in each season of the year.

Gibbs Gardens’ Wildflower Meadow opens September 20 and features thousands of late-summer-through-fall pollinator flowers that attract bees and butterflies, including the endangered Monarch butterfly. Hillsides overlooking the valley gardens offer a sweeping view of thousands of zinnias and cosmos, in rich hues of orange, yellow, burgundy, white, pink and violet. Additional pollinator plants include coreopsis, purple coneflower, tickseed, bee balm and black-eyed Susan.

For added color, 1,200 re-blooming Encore azaleas are interspersed throughout the garden.

From mid-October through November, the Japanese Gardens takes center stage, as over 3,000 Japanese maples (representing 200 varieties) show off their fall colors of red, burgundy, yellow, orange and lime green. Located on 40 acres in the valley, the Japanese Gardens are the largest in the country! You’ll wander around seven spring-fed ponds and enjoy wonderful Japanese sculptures, pagodas and bridges.

Lichen-covered boulders are intermingled with shade plants including ferns, mountain laurel, native azaleas, dogwood and the stunning collection of Japanese maples.

One of Mr. Gibbs’ favorites is the Japanese maple (Acer palmatum) ‘Sango-kaku,’ commonly known as the coral bark Japanese maple. It has interest in every season of the year, including the winter, when the bark turns a coral color.

The gardens are lush and colorful anytime you visit, but fall is a great time to make the trip, with less crowds and cooler temperatures.

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Plant a four-season garden…Yes, it’s great to see the azaleas, dogwood and cherry trees blooming in the spring, but what do you have in your garden to continue the show after these flowers fade? Gibbs Gardens was specifically designed with four-season interest in mind and no matter what time of year you visit, you will enjoy blooms and colorful foliage.

Think about your own outside space, and what time of year you need to add some color and interest. Hydrangeas and roses start to flower in May, and if you plant several varieties with early, middle and late bloom times you can extend the show for several weeks. The foliage of Japanese maples comes in many bright colors, from chartreuse to burgundy that adds vibrant interest in spring and fall. When gardens are starting to wilt in the heat of late summer, lantana, coleus, zinnias, cosmos, coreopsis and asters thrive. Plant a variety of camellias, and you will be rewarded with blooms from early fall through the next spring! Winter blooms can begin as early as January in the South with massed plantings of Hellebores (Lenten rose) and winter jasmine.

Place containers of eye-popping annuals anywhere you need an extra punch of color… At Gibbs Gardens you are greeted with a vibrant collection of colorful containers as you walk to the Welcome Center. Many more pots are arranged throughout the gardens in places where people gather, like the outside dining area at the café, and at the pool/entertainment area at the Manor House. View containers as movable gardens that you can place wherever you need some pizazz, and change out the annuals seasonally for a fresh look.

Mass plant garden beds for big impact… Daffodils are the highlight of early spring at Gibbs Gardens – masses of daffodils that reach into the millions!

People travel from all over the world to view the biggest daffodil display outside of Holland! Why not plan to mass plant a bed of daffodils and other spring bulbs in late fall for a major statement in your garden next spring?

Not only will your spirits be lifted by the cheerful colors, but your neighbors will appreciate the show. Planting bulbs close together in larger numbers is more appealing than just planting a few bulbs here and there around the garden. Roses, day lilies, zinnias, hydrangeas and gardenias also look great planted en masse in a garden bed.

Plan a visit now to Gibbs Gardens for more great garden ideas!

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4th Annual Driving For A Cure June 6, 2025 The 4th Annual Driving For A Cure benefitting Conquering Leukemia chapter of the Leukemia Research Foundation to help fund patient support and promising blood cancer research worldwide to accelerate the development of new treatments and therapies.

Leukemia Research Foundation is a 501 (c)(3) non profit

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What Makes a House a Home By: Deena Attia

Often, I think of what brings me comfort and peace in my home and what it took to acquire those things gradually. I was married for 15 years, and in March 2017, I started all over again in a small onebedroom, one-bath apartment with my daughter. I only took what I needed from the house. I decided to get the rest one day when I had a bigger place to accommodate everything I held near and dear to me. What I thought was so important lost its shine when I realized I had been living without it for years and didn’t need it. When I reflect on what brings me the most joy it is these ten items that make my house feel like home sweet home.

The Tea KettleOne of the first things I realized I missed and needed was a tea kettle. I can heat water in the microwave or in a small pot, but hearing the whistle of the kettle is comforting, and seeing the kettle on the stove top every day makes my kitchen feel cozy. I love a nice cup of tea when the weather is cold or a calming chamomile tea before bed. Plus, boiling water is necessary when using a French press to make coffee in the morning.

Here is an easy way to add a bit of extra comfort to a bedtime tea or warm milk: Steep a chamomile tea bag in boiling water in a favorite mug and add a few dashes of cinnamon and turmeric powder. For the warm milk, heat the milk in a small saucepan until it bubbles.

Remove it and pour it into your favorite mug.

Add a few dashes of cinnamon and turmeric and a spoonful of honey if you want a little sweetness. The warm milk with the cinnamon and turmeric always relaxes me, and I fall asleep fast.

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My dogSince I brought my dog Angel home in March 2020, I have had more joy, laughter, and love, and my home thrives on her energy and undying devotion to us. She is my little security guard, vacuum if I drop food in the kitchen, and my reason to get out and walk everyday.

Fresh Flowers and HouseplantsCertain items bring me pleasure when I see them, such as fresh flowers in a vase and thriving, healthy houseplants. The easiest houseplants are peace lilies and Christmas cacti. My favorite flowers to buy are those that are on sale and look the freshest.

A garden with rose bushes and bird feedersMy mother loved roses and had my father plant all varieties in their backyard. I have also developed a penchant for roses. There were three well-established hardy rose bushes in the home I rented before moving into my current place. They were massive and beautiful, and they made me smile every time I looked out the back window. I have two newly planted rose bushes, and I look forward to when they are bigger and bloom continuously. I am one of those people who can stare out the window and happily watch birds all afternoon. I get excited about the big woodpeckers that come by to take a nip of the suet or the hummingbirds that fly to the geraniums.

Memories from travelI have several wooden carved camels and mosaic wooden boxes from my travels to Egypt. I also have art and vibrant pottery from Mexico and a motherof-pearl honu (sea turtle) from Hawaii. I also collect magnets from every place I visit. When I see these reminders every day, I think about how lucky I have been to experience all that comes with traveling.

A bowl of fresh fruitThere is something about having a readily available healthy snack in a decorative basket on the dining room table. It makes me feel like I might have “it” together. What is it exactly? I am trying to be healthy and mindful of the importance of good nutrition. My goal is to always eat the fruit before it goes bad.

CandlesCandlelight in the cold months adds a romantic and warm touch, and the delicious scents, from seasonal desserts to clean linen scents, make a home smell inviting.

A bookcase filled with favorite booksI have books on my bookcase and nightstand, but the ones in my bookcase are ones I will never part with. I get addicted to reading everything that a particular author writes, and then I find out if they have a pen name, and I read that too. Or I buy books my friends have written and get a personalized copy. I have my travel books, and even if I haven’t looked at them since I arrived back in town, I am still not letting go of those prized possessions.

A dining room tableThe first little apartment my daughter and I lived in could not accommodate a dining room table. It is challenging to have company for dinner without a table. I made it work, but sitting on the couch eating over the coffee table is not ideal. Now, I have a handcrafted hardwood custom table that seats six people. It holds my fresh flowers and fruit basket and is a welcoming focal point.

Food in the fridgeThere are times when I get busy and run low on groceries. One of the joys of my week is grocery shopping and picking out what I want to eat for the next several days. When I can pick my favorite things at the store and have ingredients that I can quickly put together for a meal if a friend comes by, I feel successful. Is there a greater gift than taking care of others and feeding them? Or making someone feel welcome and comfortable in your home?

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Fall t s i L g n i d a Re Southern Woman's Book Society has handpicked a few favorites for the perfect fall reads that will keep you wanting more. Grab a cozy blanket and immerse yourself in these captivating stories, and let the pages carry you away to new and exciting adventures!

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THE FABLED EARTH

Author: Kimberly Brock Pub Date: October 1, 2024 Imprint: Harper Muse P

ABOUT THE BOOK: Steeped in centuries of Southern mythology from the Georgia coast and culminating in the historic burning of Dungeness mansion, The Fabled Earth is a story of three women connected in different ways to the ghosts and secrets of the past that they must confront or reconcile with in order to forge their own paths. The gentle magic of Alice Hoffman meets the rich details of Kate Morton, all wrapped in southern folklore and charm.

COMPARABLE TITLES The Invisible Hour by Alice Hoffman Homecoming by Kate Morton Weyward by Emilia Hart

COVERAGE SUGGESTIONS Southern Fiction To Read Right Now The Most Anticipated Fiction Releases of Fall

AUTHOR ACHIEVEMENTS: Kimberly Brock is the bestselling author of The Lost Book of Eleanor Dare, which spent three weeks on The Southern Independent Booksellers Bestseller List and was shortlisted for the Townsend Prize for Fiction.

Her debut novel, The River Witch, was an Amazon bestseller featured by both national and international book clubs and included in multiple reading lists.

The River Witch was praised by RT Reviews and Huffington Post as a “solemn journey of redemption, enlightenment and love,” and evocative of “the stories of Flannery O’Connor and Carson McCullers.”

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Kimberly Brock is the award-winning author of The Lost Book of Eleanor Dare and The River Witch. She is the founder of Tinderbox Writers Workshop and has served as a guest lecturer for many regional and national writing workshops including at the Pat Conroy Literary Center. Visit her online at kimberlybrockbooks.com; Instagram: @kimberlydbrock; Facebook: @kimberlybrockauthor; Twitter: @kimberlydbrock.

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The Beauty of the Four Seasons By: Deena Attis

We are soon transitioning to one of the most breathtaking seasons in Georgia, the fall festival season, which quickly transitions to the holiday winter season. As a kid, my favorite season was fall, and winter came second. I didn’t appreciate the cycle of the seasons and the distinct beauty that comes with each. I finally slowed down enough to pay attention when I began running outside and was exposed to nature year-round. My love for the beauty of all four seasons began.

Summertime provides more daylight to enjoy later walks or runs in the park, dinners on the patio, and an abundance of fresh foods. The leisure activities 30 SOUTHERN WOMAN

in the summer bring joy and entertainment, making the slower-paced life a delight for everyone, not only parents with school-aged kids. The abundance of blooming buds and birds that feed off the blooms brings me peace as I love to look out my window and watch the comings and goings of the vast variety of birds. The summer clothes make it so easy to dress. Slip on a dress and sandals, and that suits almost every occasion. Training for a race in the summer, when the heat and humidity are a beast, for fall races always pays off. Once the crisp, cool air arrives, it provides an added boost and feels almost effortless to run.

The vibrant fall leaves on the trees and the crunchy leaves on the ground always make me happy when I get my steps or run in. The scent of burning leaves and wood is a classic fall aroma that evokes childhood memories of my dad burning leaves in the backyard or friends having bonfires. The pumpkin spice lattes and apple treats are a festive way to celebrate the fall flavors. Of course, the weekends of festivals and trunk-or-treating events bring out the masses to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors.

Coffee on the deck on chilly mornings and deep breaths of fresh air are great ways to begin the day.

Fall has the most beautiful days and some of the most gorgeous skies. Even the overcast days are lovely. Bringing out the fall fashions like boots and scarves is so much fun.

The winter months with the gray skies, chilly dry air, and stark trees bring me a feeling of abandonment from Mother Nature since almost everything is dormant to the naked eye. It is also a reminder that we should also hibernate and conserve our energy for later in the year. The longer nights welcome and encourage a slower pace for life if you let it. Coming home from work, preparing a warm, nourishing soup or chili, and a hot cup of tea to settle down before bed are some of the things I look forward to in the winter season. My favorite winter bedtime treat is a mug of warm milk with a sprinkling of cinnamon and turmeric. That combination relaxes me into a sound sleep almost immediately.

Warm fluffy blankets to snuggle in make getting up early the next day so hard. Hot oatmeal in the morning with maple syrup fills me up and warms me from the inside out.

When spring slowly emerges, the first tiny shoots of green on the tree branches and the daffodils that break through to signal warmer days are approaching are welcome after weeks of grayness and cold. It feels so good when the days get warm enough to wear lighter clothes, sit outside, and soak in the sun on your arms. There is usually a little time to enjoy the outdoors before the yellow pine pollen coats everything. Once the yellow stuff dissipates, we are full-fledged outdoor lovers again. The days get longer, and the evening walks can begin a little later. It is fun to observe the new life of the baby birds, ducklings, and goslings. The one thing we can count on happening every year is the renewal of life that surrounds us in nature. If we followed the seasons and adapted the same, we may live a more peaceful and healthy existence.

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Enjoy the Magical Autumn Splendor at Rock City Story by Bonnie Helander Photos Courtesy of Rock City and Bonnie Helander

History of Rock City Fairyland on Lookout Mountain Two American missionaries first visited and wrote about the spectacular city of rocks atop Lookout Mountain in 1823, when they came to minister to local Native American populations. One of the missionaries described the mountain top as a “citadel of rocks,” with the boulders situated in such a way “as to afford streets and lanes.” 100 years later, Garnet and Frieda Carter, two brilliant visionaries, devised a way to showcase that unique citadel of rocks and draw people to its splendor.

In 1924, the Carters purchased 700 acres of rocky land atop Lookout Mountain and began to create a home for their family, as well as a residential community, known as Fairyland, - a name selected because of Frieda’s love of European folklore. To attract people to live on the mountain, Garnet decided to develop a golf course, but delays in construction frustrated the residents. To appease the golfers, Carter designed the first miniature golf course. The mini golf concept quickly became such a craze that Carter franchised his courses to become Tom Thumb Golf. During the 1930s, over 25,000 mini golf courses went up across the country! But, with the depression the boom in mini golf busted as quickly as it rose.

While Garnet was spinning his golf magic, Frieda was busy with her own vision – creating a stunning fairyland garden that meandered through the massive rock formations. Frieda patiently walked through the rock outcroppings and painstakingly mapped out a 4,100-foot trail, using string to mark her way. While creating her garden, Frieda was diligent to save and maintain the native plants that grew among the rocks. She was later honored by the Garden Club of America for her conservation efforts. To add more “fairyland” charm, Frieda imported German statuary, including gnomes and famous fairytale characters, which became focal points along the trail.

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“SEE ROCK CITY” Barns Garnet and Frieda Carter needed a way to promote their out-of-the-way attraction, and devised one of the most creative and successful promotional campaigns to ever capture the hearts of Americans - the “See Rock City” advertising strategy. In 1936, to lure people to his new tourist attraction, Carter hired a young sign painter from Chattanooga, Clark Byers, to paint barns across the South, encouraging folks to come his attraction atop Lookout Mountain.

Those of us who grew up in the South have fond memories of country drives, along winding back roads, where you could often spot freshly painted barns with vibrant black and white painted signage that shouted, “SEE ROCK CITY.” From 1936 to 1969 when he retired, Clark Byers painted over 900 barns in 19 states! According to an interview he gave in 1998, Byers painted, or touched up, three to six barns a day and earned about $40 per barn before expenses. Each barn had to be repainted every two years. Barn owners also were compensated with a free barn painting, complimentary passes to Rock City, and other promotional items. Some property owners held out for cash, and were paid $3-$5, for the use of their barns as billboards.

The Federal Highway Beautification Act of 1965, spearheaded by Ladybird Johnson, spelled the end of the painted barn advertising campaign as ad billboards were barred along highways. It is estimated that about 60 barns with “See Rock City” signage are still maintained along back roads, mostly in Tennessee where some of the barns have been named historic landmarks. Some faded barn signs that have not been kept up or repainted can still be spotted across the country, though most of the signs have vanished but are certainly remembered with nostalgia.

Autumn and Holiday Magic at Rock City A visit to SEE ROCK CITY is magical for the whole family. Fall is an especially optimal time to visit, with cooler temperatures and stunning views of the changing autumnal colors. Come celebrate “Rock City’s Fall Colors,” from September 14 – November 8, with seasonal decorations displayed along the trail – the perfect place to take fall family photos and create new memories.

Along the 4,100-foot long Enchanted Trail, you can walk among towering rock formations, including “Fat Man’s Squeeze,” sway along a 200-foot-long swinging bridge, be charmed by a tumbling waterfall, and captivated by the panoramic view from Lover’s Leap. Legend suggests a young Cherokee maiden secretly eloped with a young warrior from the Chickasaw tribe but were separated because their tribes were warring. The young warrior was thrown from Lover’s Leap and the young maiden followed her lover to her death. Here at Lover’s Leap observation deck, you can view seven states at one time – Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia, North Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, and South Carolina.

From November 22 – January 4, Rock City provides a fantastical Christmas experience, with festive day time decorations and activities leading each night to the Enchanted Garden of Lights. Children will be charmed by Fairyland Caverns and Mother Goose Village and excited to discover all the gnomes along the Enchanted Trail. There are several options for eateries and gift shops at the gardens. For more information, visit seerockcity.com.

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Expierence Lake Martin Holiday Cove is a 4-house vacation rental complex on Lake Martin in Dadeville, Alabama. It is a 2 1/2-acre property with 280 feet of waterfront. The houses share 2 separate picnic areas with tables, chairs, BBQ grills, and fire pit. There is also a Lilly Pad, kayak and lawn games. We have our own large, white sandy beach. You walk right into the water! The houses also share a common boat house that will accommodate 4 full-size boats, and a pier where 2 more boats with floating dock or jet skis can tie-up. The 25’X30’ covered pavilion has plenty of tables and chairs to accommodate several families. The boathouse and pavilion provide 1600 square feet of covered, shaded space. Our 4 houses can sleep up to 48 people, perfect for a relaxing vacation, family reunion, Auburn football game weekend, graduation, church retreat, corporate training event and much, much more! Each house has lake views and lake access. The property is gorgeous! These homes have everything you need for the ultimate lakeside retreat!

Come join the fun on Lake Martin at Holiday Cove! www.holidaycovevr.com

EVENTS

September 1 Senoia Porch Fest 3:00 PM Enjoysenoia.com September 2 Labor Day 5K 8AM The Avenue, Peachtree City September 12 Coweta County Fair Coweta County Fairgrounds September 13 The Wallflowers The Fred Amphitheater Show Starts 7:30 PM amphitheater.org September 19 #PTCEATS Culinary Tour 3:30PM freshtix.com/events/ptceats-culinary-tour September 20 Art Walk 5-9 PM Historic Downtown Newnan September 21-22 Shakerag Arts & Craft Festival 201 Mcintosh Trail Peachtree City Saturday 10-5 Sunday 12-5

October 5 Hispanic Heritage Festival 3-9 PM Drake Field, Peachtree City instagram.com/hispanicheritagefestivalptc October 11 Public Safety Fall Festival 5:30-8:30PM Fayette County Justice Center October 12 Coweta Master Gardeners’ Fall Plant Sale 8:30AM- 12:00PM UGA Extension, 255 Pine Road, Newnan georgiamastergardeners.org/calander/newnan October 12 & 13 Harvest Hoedown 10AM-5PM 22 Depot St, Warm Springs GA October 17 Bourbon & Bow Ties/ Pinot & Pearls 6-9PM peachtreecityrotary.org/events

September 21 19th Annual Senoia Car Show 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Downtown Senoia

October 19 Spirits & Spice Festival 2:00PM Historic Downtown Newnan

September 21 Golf Cart Show 10 AM The Avenue Peachtree City

October 19 Fayette Fall Festival 3-6PM McCurry Park

September 22 Sunday Social at Town of Trilith 4-8 PM eventeny.com

October 19 & 20 Magnolia Fine Arts Festival 10AM-7PM Saturday 10AM-5-PM Sunday Drake Field, Peachtree City

September 27 REEL Friday at Trilith 7PM trilith.com September 27 Night Market PTC 5-10 PM Drake Field, Peachtree City nightmarketptc.com 36 SOUTHERN WOMAN

October 5 - 6 The Cotton Fair Gay, GA www.thecottonfair.com

October 26 & 27 Atlanta Airshow 9AM-4PM Falcon Field October 31

Taco

INGREDIENTS 1 cup Cooked Chicken- Shredded 1 cup Buffalo Sauce 1/4 cup Red Cabbage- Chopped

Katy r ve a e W WHAT WE ARE

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

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1/4 cup Blue Cheese Crumbles 2 Green Onions- Sliced Thin Corn or Flour Tortillas- Toasted Optional: Blue Cheese or Ranch Dressing

DIRECTIONS Toss your chicken with Buffalo sauce and blue cheese crumbles. (heat if necessary.) Build your tacos, topping with cabbage, green onion, and additional blue cheese crumbles.

Smoked Salmon Carpaccio

INGREDIENTS ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil 1 clove garlic minced 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice 1 teaspoon dijon mustard 1 small shallot (sliced thin) ½ pound smoked salmon 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill freshly cracked black pepper 2 tablespoons drained capers

DIRECTIONS Dressing: In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard and shallot.

Whisk and set to the side.

Slice salmon into 1-2" slices. Plate to your liking, and drizzle dressing over salmon. Top with capers, black pepper, and fresh dill.

royale INGREDIENTS Ground Beef Sweet Hawaiian Rolls Cheese Royal Bacon Pimento Cheese 1/4 Cup Sour Cream Garlic Butter Melted Bacon Crumbles

DIRECTIONS Easy to make, easier to devour! Start with a full pack of Hawaiian rolls and do not separate. Cut out the center of each roll (like making a mini bread bowl). Scoop in a layer of cooked and seasoned ground beef (I seasoned with salt, pepper, and garlic you can substitute with your favorite seasoning). Brush the rolls with melted garlic butter. Add a generous scoop of bacon pimento cheese on top of each roll. Sprinkle on some additional bacon crumbles ('cause you can never have too much bacon!).

Toss on the grill or oven at 275F until the cheese is nice and melted. Remove, slice into individual rolls, garnish, and serve immediately!

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INGREDIENTS 1LB Thawed Shrimp - Peeled 1 Stick of Butter - Melted ¼ Cup Olive Oil 2 Garlic Cloves - Chopped 1 TSP Shallot - Diced (optional) ¼ Cup White Wine 1 Lemon - Zested & Juiced Salt Optional: Parmesan & Parsley for topping

DIRECTIONS In a bowl mix all ingredients minus the shrimp, and whisk. In a small baking dish add shrimp and top with butter mixture. Bake at 375° for 10 minutes, then broil at 500° for 3 minutes. Serve over pasta or cauliflower rice. Enjoy!

Roast INGREDIENTS 2-4|b Roast (Chuck or Round Roast) 2 Large Onions - Quartered 2 Cups of Cabernet Sauvignon or your fav red wine ½ Cup of Beef Stock ½ Cup of Balsamic Vinegar Can French Onion Soup Cloves of Garlic - Chopped 2 Springs of Each (Rosemary & Thyme) Olive Oil Salt & Pepper

DIRECTIONS Pat the roast until dry, liberally season with salt and pepper on all sides. In a skillet or cast iron over high heat, add olive oil. Once warm, brown all sides of roast, set aside. Add in onions, sauté until slightly browned. Add in 1 cup of wine, stir, to deglaze the pan. Add roast and all ingredients to your slow cooker. Cool on LOW heat for 4-6 hours.

Serve over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice.

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l l a F sips

As the crisp autumn air settles in, it's the perfect time to cozy up with a delicious fall-inspired drink. Here are some comforting and flavorful beverages to enjoy during the fall season

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Spiced

Hot Apple Cider

Ingredients 1 gallon apple cider 3 cinnamon sticks 6 whole cloves 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg Optional: sliced fresh apples and additional cinnamon sticks for garnish In a large pot, combine the apple cider, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and ground nutmeg. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat and let the cider simmer for about 20-30 minutes to allow the spices to infuse. Remove from heat and strain the cider to remove the spices. Serve the spiced apple cider hot in mugs, and garnish with sliced fresh apples and cinnamon sticks if desired

kin PumpSp iced Latte Ingredients 1 shot of espresso (or strong brewed coffee) 1 cup milk (your choice of dairy or non-dairy) 2 tablespoons pumpkin spice syrup Whipped cream Ground cinnamon or nutmeg for garnish Brew a shot of espresso or strong coffee and pour it into a mug. In a separate saucepan, heat the milk until steaming but not boiling. Stir in the pumpkin spice syrup until well combined. Pour the pumpkin spice milk mixture over the espresso in the mug. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or nutmeg.

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Maple Bourbon

Old Fashion

2 oz bourbon 1/2 oz maple syrup 2-3 dashes bitters Orange peel Luxardo cherry for garnish

Instructions: In a mixing glass, combine bourbon, maple syrup, and bitters.

Fill the glass with ice and stir until well chilled. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass over fresh ice. Express the oils from the orange peel over the drink and garnish with a Luxardo cherry

Cranberry

Mule

2 oz vodka 4 oz ginger beer 2 oz cranberry juice 1/2 oz lime juice Fresh cranberries and rosemary sprig for garnish Fill a copper mug or glass with ice. Add vodka, cranberry juice, and lime juice to the glass. Top off with ginger beer and stir gently to mix the ingredients. Garnish with fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary. Give it a final stir and enjoy your festive Cranberry Mule!

Chai Tea latte

1 cup water 1 black tea bag or 1 tablespoon loose black tea 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy) 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom Pinch of ground ginger Pinch of ground cloves Pinch of ground nutmeg

In a small saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add the black tea bag or loose black tea to the boiling water and let it steep for 3-5 minutes. In another saucepan, heat the milk until steaming but not boiling. Remove the tea bag or strain the loose tea from the water. Pour the steeped tea into a mug, then add the hot milk. Stir in the honey or maple syrup, ground cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg. Mix well to combine all the flavors and enjoy your homemade chai tea latte.

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Kelly Hillis Photography By: @garterandwhiskey

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Photography By : @garterandwh iskey

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Enriching Women’s Lives I’ve been a Mary Kay consultant for 5 years, and it wasn’t until this past March that I turned my hobby of being a consultant into a fulltime job! That’s the beautiful thing about Mary Kay! It just fits! I now have a team of women working alongside me, and it’s such a beautiful experience to watch a woman fully bloom in this business. It’s happening to me, and I see it happening for so many others! Mary Kay is a God-first, family-second, career-third business.

We are the #1 direct selling company in skincare and cosmetics, and I’m so proud to be a part of Mary Kay! Our products truly are the best!

One of my favorites that you may not have even known about is our Timewise TargetedAction Toning Lotion! Helping you to love your body at every age! It provides visible bodytoning benefits and 24 hours of hydration to help reinforce the skin's ability to look its best longer. And that is just one amazing product from our Timewise line! So let’s connect and allow me to help you find just what your skin needs!

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Shelby Flynn

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We are a mom and pop shop that offers the highest quality in unusual and handmade items including a variety of soaps, candles, and other indoor/outdoor accessories. Sometimes we get flung with a craving and just have to make something we got inspired with, according to our mood!

Our specialty artisan soaps are created with love and a unique formula that contains more essential oils and other 'goodness' than any other soap on the market for a comparable price. We offer all-natural, vegan and goats milk options in a variety of formulations to moisturize, strengthen and revitalize your skin. All of our soaps are handmade and each bar has unique characteristics. No two bars ever look the same!

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Saturday November 9th, 2024 6:00-11:00PM

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