The Sanctuary Living

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the macke FAMILY

By Greta Honsberger

The Sanctuary became the Mackes’ home last April, although it was not part of their original plan. Initially looking at land to build, on a whim, they agreed to look at a property not yet listed that their realtor thought might be a good fit for them. After a thorough look at the property, Will and Kristin were confident they had found the right place to make their home. This home checked all the boxes for their needs and wants, including a spacious yard and an inviting pool.

Kristin and Will’s story began on the LSU campus, where Kristin had just graduated from LSU Business School, and Will was in his second year of law school. Fate would lead their paths to cross, and romance ensued. After dating for several years, the couple married in June 2014.

Kristin taught for twelve years until the couple’s

youngest son was born when she transitioned into stay-at-home mom. Will began his law career as a prosecutor, first in the Orleans Parish DA’s Office and then the St. Tammany Parish DA’s office where he worked in public service for nine years.

As their family grew, the couple began considering professions that would afford them more time with their children. In 2021, the couple took different career paths from their original ones and embarked on careers in the business world. Taking on roles in the family business, Macke & Company CPAs and Advisors, Will is now a CPA and heads up the firm’s client advisory section. Kristin is involved in administrative and professional support part-time. The couple loves that they now have more time to enjoy their young family.

movie viewing and camp-outs, and the setting for a wine night with friends.

Regarding their young family, the Mackes are kept on their toes by their three adorable children. Emma is seven and in first grade at Mary, Queen of Peace. She is currently into soccer and the Kidstrong program. William, aged four, also attends Mary, Queen of Peace in pre-kindergarten and shares his sister’s enthusiasm for Kidstrong. Two-year-old Hudson spends his days helping his Mom at home and enjoys the music program at Tots ‘n’ Tunes.

While the Macke home’s physical attributes certainly contribute to its charm, the moments shared within its walls make it truly special. Many of those moments take place in the Macke’s living room. “We love the spacious living room area with tall ceilings and natural light,” explains Kristin. This space serves as the heart of their home, where the family gathers for movie nights, fort building for prime

A recent renovation gave a refreshing update to the primary bathroom. Using the expertise of Eli Crosby Homes’s renovation skills, the master bath was completely transformed. The extensive modifications were top to bottom, including new floors, fresh paint throughout, and updated light fixtures. The original countertops were replaced with sleek quartz, adding both style and durability to the space. White tiles and the latest gold finishes were installed, giving the space a fresh update. In contrast to the all-white, the cabinets were painted dark green, adding a touch of color that brings it all together.

Will and Kristin also plan to renovate the kitchen and kids’ bathrooms soon. Kristin notes that the Macke home is a work in progress for obvious reasons. “In this stage of our lives, we strive for comfort and simplicity. Having only been in the home since April, we still have a lot of work to do, including artwork/designing most spaces.”

The Macke family embraces a spirit of adventure and enjoys traveling. They have visited locales such as France for Mom and Dad and family trips to Alaska, Tennessee, and Florida.

Locally, the family of five likes La Carretas and Fat Boys for family outings, reserving more intimate venues

Photo Credits

Hessel Photography

such as 527 and Keith Young’s for date nights. Kristin favors Apricot Lane and Columbia Street Mercantile for local shopping, and the kids like Learning Express. Will, on the other hand, is not a shopper!

The Mackes have settled in nicely to their life in The Sanctuary and have become big fans of the newly refurbished play area, making it a frequent outing. This space, conveniently located a short walk from their home, is a fun outdoor retreat where Emma, William, and Hudson can enjoy the freedom of outdoor play.

For Will and Kristin, being close to the kids’ school and in close proximity to the conveniences of Mandeville is essential. Their home in The Sanctuary easily provides this and a welcoming sense of community surrounding them.

The Macke family has found their perfect home. Like most Sanctuary residents, they have discovered that their neighborhood is not just a place to live but a nurturing environment where their children can thrive and grow and their family can make memories for years to come.

ANNIE WHITAKER photography

Business Spotlight

Drawn to art and science from a young age, Annie Whitaker of Annie Whitaker Photography brings a unique blend of passion for science and art to her work.

The birth of her eldest daughter truly ignited her passion for photography when she started taking newborn photos before it was a thing. When her second daughter was born, she knew all too well the fleeting nature of those early years. “I knew the newborn stage would go too fast, the chubby, wobbly legs would thin out and steady too quickly, and the gummy smile would be filled with teeth too soon. And I knew those memories I treasure would slowly fade,” recalls Annie. To document those precious years, Annie says, “I did it in the way I knew best, through photography.”

Photography is not the only skill of Annie’s. She is multifaceted. Transitioning from her academic pursuit of a PhD in Physiology to teaching Biology at St. Scholastica Academy, Annie found a perfect harmony between her love for science and her creative aspirations. Balancing her wife, mother, and educator roles can be tricky. Still, she leans on the devotion and encouragement of her husband, a local contractor, and her two girls, who are her constant inspiration.

With over twenty years of experience, Annie explains, “ I focus on capturing the journey through motherhood. I specialize in maternity, newborns, babies, children, and families.” She fancies herself a baby whisperer, telling moms, “Just bring me the baby, and I can guarantee you beautiful photos.”

What truly distinguishes Annie as a photographer is her ability to infuse her work with emotions, making her photographs genuine and timeless works of art. Her nuanced art approach and her love for vintage aesthetics permeate her portraits with nostalgic charm.

Annie’s studio, nestled on nine picturesque acres in Covington, is the perfect backdrop for her sessions. Offering a personalized experience, she collaborates closely with clients to plan every detail, ensuring each session is tailored precisely to their wants.

From the initial consultation to the final delivery, Annie, with camera in hand and the creativity and determination to make every photograph a work of art, documents stories of growing up and life’s milestones through her lens. For Annie, creating lasting treasures for families to cherish is easy; as she attests, “I truly love what I do.”

Relaxation Tips BY SANCTUARY RESIDENT

Tori Pasentine with Royal Retreat Day Spa

Relaxation Tips for Mom on Her Special Day

Mother’s Day is near! Once we have children, we worry, stress, and look out for our children’s best interests forever. Because of our love and dedication to our children, many of us find ourselves exhausted from juggling children and their extracurricular activities, careers, and marriage. We all deserve a little break from the usual. Whether you are a mom seeking relaxation or you want to help a mom unwind and relax, here are a few tried-and-true tips for serenity.

RUN A BUBBLE BATH AND LISTEN TO YOUR FAVORITE MUSIC.

Light candles and soak in an aromatic bath with essential oils. Essential oils have healing and beneficial properties to help you relax, and even alleviate aches and pains.

GET A BABYSITTER AND GO FOR A DATE NIGHT.

Whether it’s a night out with your spouse or the girls, all moms need a day or night out. Get dressed up, look your best, and go out.

SHOPPING THERAPY

Who doesn’t appreciate and love a gift card and shopping day?

TAKE A TRIP TO THE LAKEFRONT

Go for a walk, run, or play in the sand and playground. Being near the water is very relaxing and also promotes calmness.

GET A MASSAGE, A FACIAL, A PEDICURE, OR BOOK A HAIR APPOINTMENT.

Self-care is so important for a mom to feel recharged, and it’s nourishing for the soul.

GET SOME VITAMIN C

Skin care products with an aromatic orange citrus scent are uplifting. There are amazing vitamin c skin care lines for the face and body and vitamin C spa treatments. Vitamin C improves mood and mental vitality, protects neurons from oxidative stress, and has collagen-producing, tightening, and firming properties.

WORDS OF AFFIRMATION

Journal and list all of the things you’ve accomplished in a day, and commend yourself. Give Mom a card and tell her how much you love and appreciate her for all she does. Showing appreciation to others releases dopamine for both of you.

Improve Needs

grassinc.northshore@gmail.com

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL

LICENSED & INSURED

LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED

“Jason is easy to work with and extremely knowledgeable about landscape design.”

Mary and Nick Cefalu

GARDENING TIPS BY SANCTUARY RESIDENT

“Jason with Grass Inc. took so much time creating our oasis; he is truly gifted and has a meticulous vision for his creation, and we couldn’t be happier.”

Mary Grillo

Jason Thompson with Grass Inc

As we move into the warmer and sunnier months, it’s time to gear up for some garden and lawn TLC. Two simple steps can ensure that your outdoor space stays in top-notch condition all summer long.

• WEEDING

Weeding is a never-ending task, and keeping up with the chore is important, especially since you may notice some weeds still lingering in your lawn. These are winter weeds such as clover or poa annua. To eliminate them from taking over, spray your yard with a herbicide. This will eliminate them and help your grass get lush and green!

• IRRIGATION

I mentioned this in the March/April Issue, but it bears repeating. We haven’t needed our irrigation systems for 3-4 months, but the dry days will slip up on you, and you will need your irrigation system ready. Now is the time to go through your irrigation system and ensure it is ready for the season. Turn on your system and let it run through to make sure everything is still working properly and there are no leaks. Have your irrigation system ready to roll when that day comes so plants and lawns can get the water they need to sustain healthy growth and stay alive.

Ensuring your lawn and garden are weed-free and maintaining your irrigation system are essential for vibrant and healthy landscaping. By tackling these simple gardening tasks, you’ll minimize inconvenience and free up time to fully enjoy summer activities, allowing for more relaxation and fun.

NON-PROFIT NEW HEIGHTS THERAPY

Riding Towards Hope & Healing

For 25 years, New Heights Therapeutic Riding Center has been providing hope and healing to veterans, human trafficking survivors, and adults and children with physical, cognitive, behavioral, and emotional challenges. Since its inception, New Heights’ mission has been simple yet profound: to enhance, enrich, and improve the lives of others through the healing power of the horse.

On over 20 acres of picturesque land in Folsom, New Heights boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including riding trails, a covered arena, and viewing areas for friends and family. What began with just one rider and one horse has become a thriving community of nearly 100 program participants from across the state, supported by a team of dedicated staff and over 100 volunteers.

Recognizing that participants have different needs and goals, the structured therapy programs at New Heights encompass a variety of activities, both mounted and unmounted, aimed at addressing specific physical, emotional, and cognitive challenges. From adaptive riding sessions that focus on building confidence and self-esteem to Hippotherapy, a form of therapy conducted on horseback to provide sensory and motor input, each program is carefully designed to maximize therapeutic benefits.

By their very nature, horses are compassionate animals, making them heroes, but they don’t do their jobs without the loving guidance of instructors. New Heights instructors undergo a rigorous training program facilitated by PATH International, where they must meet stringent criteria and adhere to established standards of practice within the field. Demonstrating expertise in disabilities, equine behavior, teaching methodologies, and human-animal interactions is vital for effective performance as a therapeutic riding instructor.

The impact of New Heights’ programs is best captured in the stories of individuals who have found reassurance and empowerment in the saddle. One example is a young lady born with Cerebral Palsy who experiences newfound freedom from pain and a sense of pride during her adaptive riding lessons. Another example is an individual who faces the challenges of Pseudohypoparathyroidism. For this person, riding andconnecting with the horse builds onself-esteem that is nurtured and strengthened at every visit.

Volunteers play a crucial role in New Heights’ mission. Their dedication and support enable the program to expand and continue making a difference in the lives of those they serve. Opportunities to volunteer are ample, from leading horses during lessons to assisting with special events.

As New Heights embarks on its next chapter, the message to the community is clear: this is a place where miracles happen, barriers are broken, and the healing journey begins. Whether through participation, volunteering, or simply visiting to witness the magic firsthand, everyone has a role in New Heights’ remarkable story.

REAL ESTATE tips BY SANCTUARY RESIDENT

Amanda Colceriu-Dandu

TIPS FOR SELLING YOUR HOME THIS SUMMER

• Timing Matters: The best time to sell is in the first two weeks of May, with July and June as the next best months.

• Competition Increases: More buyers are in the market, but there are also more sellers to compete with.

• Market Changes: This year’s market may differ from last year’s, so stay informed.

• Buyer Timelines: Your buyer may be on a specific timeline, so be prepared for quick decisions.

• Local Market Variation: The market varies from city to city, so research your local market.

• Curb Appeal is Crucial: Landscaping can make a big difference in attracting buyers.

• Days on Market: A longer time on the market doesn’t necessarily mean your home won’t sell.

• Price Adjustments: You may need to be flexible and lower your asking price to attract buyers.

• Staging Matters: Some staging is required to showcase your home’s potential.

• DIY Projects: Some projects, like minor repairs and updates, can be done yourself to improve your home’s appeal.

• Professional Upgrades: For bigger upgrades, consider hiring a professional for a better return on investment

For more tips on selling your home this summer, call Christine Westenberger or Amanda Colceriu-Dandu at Fine Southern Properties. We are always here to answer any of your real estate questions right here at the front of The Sanctuary!

Amanda

985.273.7986

Advantages you

• As residents and business owners in The Sanctuary Business Park, we are invested in keeping values in our community up ensuring you get the every bit of profit your home demands.

• We have proven results over the last eight years, no other broker or agent has closed more sales in The Sanctuary than Christine with Fine Southern Properties.

• Chosen to be Crosby Development’s exclusive broker in 2014. Fine Southern Properties is uniquely located at 1 Sanctuary Boulevard and receives daily inquires from buyers eager to learn about the benefits of Sanctuary living.

• Through living and volunteering in The Sanctuary,both have the answers a home buyer needs to satisfy questions about our community and the area.

SANCTUARY RESIDENT FAMILY pets

Bubba G.

Meet Bubba, an English bulldog who not only has the cutest smooshed face and underbite you’ve ever seen, but is full of character. This lovable pup, a cherished member of the Carpenter family, found his way to their home three years ago and has been entertaining them since. Bubba’s quirky nature and boundless affection make him an irreplaceable part of their family.

Bubba loves BIG when it comes to his family, but it is his mom (Dr. G of VetNaturally) who proudly declares herself as his “person.” A fella who would rather cuddle and snooze close to his loved ones, Bubba is only pulled away from such comforts by one thing: food. If he gets the scent or the idea that there is a bite to be had, he abandons the cuddle fest and searches for whatever tasty delight he can score. Bubba will also lie about his food consumption. Explains Dr. G., “Nobody lies harder than Bubba, who just had dinner but is pretending like he didn’t have dinner while my husband is preparing his second dinner.” Bubba is very motivated by his desire for food and is not afraid to abandon his morals and his people to get it.

Dr. G “I joke with the kids that if we put Bubba’s brain in a bird, it would fly backward.” He more than makes up for his lack of intelligence with his adorable personality, which draws people to him. He is sweet, funny, and quite charming.

Bubba has numerous medical needs that require constant attention. Luckily, he has easy access to weekly skin treatments that keep his coat soft and healthy, as well as acupuncture to ensure he stays up and moving well with visits to VetNaturally. Thanks to these treatments and all of the love he gets from his family, Bubba is a happy and healthy little guy. Bubba’s welcoming nature and easygoing personality make him a friend to all. He’s always ready to make a new buddy, do some serious snuggling, and accept a treat when offered and even when It’s not. If you encounter Bubba in the neighborhood, stop and say hello because he will expect it and be ready to reciprocate well wishes. The Carpenters apologize in advance if he humps your leg.

One of Bubba’s greatest sources of joy is his collection of toys, especially those with squeakers. He takes immense pleasure in dismantling them and loves the challenge. Soccer balls also hold a special place in his heart, and his spirited pursuit of them in the yard is quite the sight. These playful activities serve as gentle reminders that Bubba, despite being the king of the castle, is still a dog at heart.

Bubba also possesses some intriguing idiosyncrasies, notably a sincere dread of loud noises. Also, hooting owls, in particular, evoke a strong sense of fear in him. His noise aversion is ironic, especially considering Dr. G.’s comparison of Bubba’s habitual snoring to that of an “off-brand tractor with a broken tailpipe.”

“Bubba is precious, but he may not be the smartest”, says

Dr. G. with VetNaturally

Debunking the Myths Behind Summer Shaving Your Pet’s Coat

Myth: It will decrease shedding.

Fact: It will not affect your pet’s shedding cycle. They will still shed, but the tiny hair that is now shed is sharp like a piece of glass.

Myth: It will make them cooler.

Fact: It will reduce their ability to thermoregulate themselves. The erector pili muscle will be damaged, and the dog can’t lift and lower his coat to regulate temperature. In addition, shaved hair can no longer protect your dog from UVA/UVB rays or distribute sebum across the skin—which is needed for a dog to feel great. Short-coated dogs (who normally need a high level of added oil to their coat) really suffer when you shave them short.

Myth: It makes them feel great.

Fact: When their skin is shaved down, owners often think their pets are “embarrassed” because they hide under things. In reality, you took away their ability to regulate their body temperature. They are trying to stay warm and they don’t feel great.

Myth: It’s safer for them in the summer- heat stroke prevention.

Fact: This is simply not true. Shaving your dog doesn’t make them cooler. Take the example of two golden retrievers—one shaved and one left with his coat. If both of those dogs got hit by a car, the golden without hair would be at higher risk on the way to the hospital. Without a coat, a dog can’t control its critical body temperature like a coat.

If both dogs were in the sun, the one with a coat has the protection. The one missing his coat is at a higher risk for heat stroke and sunburn.

If you have a long-haired dog, we suggest leaving at least 1 inch of hair if you must shave for the summer. If you have a short-haired dog, do not shave them. Simply add extra hydration during the summer with topical sprays. We have skin support boxes available for front-door delivery if anyone needs these sprays or any other item for skin support.

THE SANCTUARY

Meet Tennis Coach Victor Sanakaipapi

Coach Victor: A Lesson in Passion and Dedication on the Tennis Court

Coach Victor’s journey with tennis is not just a tale of personal achievement but a testament to the power of mentorship and dedication.

Victor Sanakaipapi is originally from Garoua, Cameroon, where he learned to play tennis by using plastic gas jugs for a net and plywood to make a tennis racket. He further explains his skill: “I developed speed and agility chasing chickens and honed my arm strength and accuracy pitching rocks to liberate mangoes from the tree branches beyond my reach.” He was determined to play a game that he loved.

Coach Victor came to the US in 1999, hoping to play in tournaments and earn a college degree. He was successful in his aspirations, becoming the first person in his family to graduate from college, a four-time NAIA 1st Team All-American, and a three-time NAIA National Champion. He came to Mandeville after assistant coaching at Troy State University, Clemson University, and Auburn University—Montgomery.

From his early days on the court to his role as a coach at The Sanctuary, Victor’s story is one of inspiration and commitment.

Initially drawn to tennis by his love for the sport and a desire to work with players, Coach Victor’s journey began with the support of mentors who

believed in his potential. After college, he transitioned to coaching and found his true calling in nurturing the talents of others.

Reflecting on his coaching philosophy, Coach Victor emphasizes the importance of inspiring imagination and fostering motivation among his players. For him, every coaching experience is an opportunity to instill confidence and drive in his students.

When asked about coaching at The Sanctuary, Coach Victor credits Coach Ray and the supportive environment created by The Sanctuary residents. Here, he works with students of all ages, tailoring his approach to meet each individual’s unique needs. For beginners, Victor focuses on fundamental skills, while for more advanced players, he ensures equal attention and encouragement while accommodating their diverse skill levels.

In his coaching sessions, Victor prioritizes engagement and fun, believing that a positive attitude breeds success both on and off the court. His passion for coaching shines through in every session, inspiring his students to reach their full potential.

For Coach Victor, tennis is not just a sport but a way of life. His path is a reminder that success is attainable through dedication, hard work, and a staunch belief in oneself and others.

SANCTUARY PLAYGROUND

A Neighborhood Area Transformation

As The Sanctuary flourished and doubled in size, it became evident that its recreational spaces needed a facelift to accommodate the expanding community. The Sanctuary Board decided that the time had come for revitalization. Thus, the playground, tennis court, and field area overhaul began, ensuring they became a focal point for leisure and enjoyment.

With Ultimate Outdoor Play’s skilled guidance, the playground area was addressed first. Rather than starting from scratch, the decision was made to build upon the existing structure, which was still in pretty good condition. The playground was transformed into a vibrant park-like setting with additions like a rock wall, tire swing, and extra slides. Inclusivity was a top priority, leading to the installation of a special needs swing and concrete path for easier access.

Also added to the play area were durable poly benches and picnic tables that matched the aesthetic of the clubhouse pool area. Prestige Landscaping took on the task of trimming vegetation and planting fragrant, deer-resistant shrubbery in the surrounding area. Adding a perimeter fence and concrete walkway ensured safety and accessibility throughout.

Eli Crosby of Eli Crosby Homes offered his expertise in lighting, storage solutions, and custom boardwalks. These additions elevated the space with a new storage shed for the tennis courts and a custom boardwalk for the open field area. These added features offer both functionality and charm.

With the tennis court fence repairs now complete and plans for court resurfacing in the pipeline, The

Sanctuary’s recreational hub is poised to become a favorite for community activity and enjoyment for years to come.

As families and children flock to this refreshed area, it’s a testament to the collaborative effort and vision of all involved—a true reflection of The Sanctuary’s commitment to fostering a thriving and inclusive neighborhood environment.