Emory Johns Creek Hospital is committed to our community.
We’ve added two floors to the hospital, three floors to the Physicians Plaza and a parking deck, all to better serve you and your family. The new areas provide physicians, nurses and our care teams an interdisciplinary space to focus on family-centered care and ongoing wellness, supporting you with the unparalleled service and knowledgeable professionals you’ve come to expect.
No matter your health needs – from routine to advanced – we’re here to help you make your health a priority.
Our luxury furniture showrooms are open to the public on select days each month. With highquality, unique, and on-trend furniture that is available to take home same-day or schedule to have delivered and a team of expert designers ready to help, you are sure to find what you’ve been searching for at one of our exciting shopping events!
SCAN THE QR TO CHECK OUT UPCOMING EVENTS IN YOUR AREA!
Multiple locations in:
GEORGIA | DALLAS | FLORIDA
For over a decade, our team of expert designers have furnished thousands of homes, TURNKEY, all over the United States. We have cornered the market with superior products, lightning-fast lead times and unparalleled customer service and expertise! Reach out and let’s discuss what we can do for YOU!
We look forward to seeing you, Kristy & JJ Ortega
Happy holidays, friends
Well, we made it through the election cycle and now it's time to get serious about the holidays. Now, that's a blessing!
This year, my family will celebrate with a trip to the Dominican Republic to stay at Villa Cantamar, one of the magnificent vacation rental homes from The Kristy Collection. Can't wait! I'll share photos and a story in an upcoming issue.
For years, we've vowed to take a trip together instead of scheming, shopping, making, and wrapping. I love all those things, so we'll see how the new plan goes. Stand by.
In the meantime, savor the holiday inspiration from Branda Peterson, Founder at Alpharetta Housewives, a gift guide from our staff photographers at Firelite Studios, and an award-winning kitchen from Sub-Zero.
Many thanks to the energetic and organized group, The Friends of the Alpharetta Library for breathing life into the wonderful local library. Keep it up!
If you're hosting out-of-town guests and have turned your guest room into a home office or painting studio, check out our recommendations for hotels to book for your visitors (or yourself).
Our writer Sean O'Keefe brings you his tale from a once-in-a-lifetime trip to The Galápagos Islands on Ecoventura’s luxury expedition private yacht. Dreamy! Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, and Joyous Kwanzaa to one and all! Cheers!
SUE G. COLLINS, EDITOR @ALPHARETTACITYLIFESTYLE
December 2024
PUBLISHER
Jim Newman | jnewman@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Sue G. Collins | scollins@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Hayat Nawd | hayat.nawd@citylifestyle.com
SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER
Karyn Slovin | karyn.slovin@citylifestyle.com
ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR
Karla Wilkinson | Karla.Wilkinson@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Louise Davie | louise.davie@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Summer J. Robinson
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Firelite Studios | info@firelitestudios.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Sean O’Keefe, Branda Peterson, Linda Statham
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
Proverbs 3:5-6
city scene
1: Jim Newman, Sue Collins, Mattie Rushing of Rushing Trading Co, and Karyn Slovin. 2: Amber Rushing of Rushing Trading Co demonstrated mixology. 4: Tiffany and Brad Strawbridge of CR3 Exteriors. 5: Jack Paton of Clark Hall Doors, Stephen Cho of Jang Su Jang, Kaleb White of Clark Hall Doors. 6: Dr. Julia Kang of Joli Oculoplastics and Mark and Cinda Salazar of Archadeck of Alpharetta 7: Nonoka and Dr. James Harper of OptiHealth.
Want to be seen in the magazine? TAG YOUR INSTAGRAM PHOTOS WITH @ALPHARETTACITYLIFESTYLE
8: The beautiful charcuterie spread from Rushing Trading Co. 9: Darnella Gimble of ReWax and UnWine and Cinda Salazar of Archadeck of Alpharetta 10: Angela Cassisi of Chiarabella Gallery is a winner.
Recieve items in stock before Christmas!
Alpharetta's Newest Leader
“I couldn’t have been happier with my decision to give Absolute Image Consulting a try, it has been by far my favorite place I’ve had over all my years. I find their hair systems to be top notch, the most up to date on the market, as are all the hair products that they offer. I can’t say enough good things about the company and staff.” - Client Testimonial
“My experience at Absolute Image completely changed my life. After suffering from hair loss since college, I’d also lost most of my self esteem and confidence along the way. The quality is truly astounding. They gave me my life back. They have me myself back. My only regret is not choosing this sooner and saving myself all those rough mornings in the mirror. If you’re considering hair replacement - do it.” - Client Testimonial
Charlie Jewell is the city's new Director of Economic Development. With over 16 years of experience driving economic growth at local, regional, and university levels, Jewell brings an exceptional track record of leadership, innovation, and strategic vision to the city. Prior to joining Alpharetta, Jewell served as the Director of Economic Development and Community Engagement at Radford University, Managing Director at the Site Selectors Guild, and Executive Director at Onward New River Valley.
New Hands on Deck
Cesar Castaneda is the new design consultant for Archadeck of Alpharetta. His goal is to provide insight and information about outdoor living and everything Archadeck offers to help make your backyard the spot to be for your family and friends. He brings more than 15 years of construction experience to the team. Outside of work, he enjoys mountain biking, working with wood or on cars, and spending time with his wife and kids.
TurningPoint Golf Outing
TurningPoint Breast Cancer Rehabilitation will team up with Toys for Tots for its 17th annual holiday golf outing at Echelon Golf Club in Alpharetta on Saturday, December 7. This festive event is a four-person scramble with a shotgun start of 10 a.m. The outing includes a silent auction and lunch. TurningPoint Breast Cancer Rehabilitation provides essential survivorship services to breast cancer patients of all backgrounds. Contact: mike.kozel@gmail.com.
Breakthru Psychiatric Solutions Expands with New Alpharetta Location
Dr. Karen Giles and Dr. Cecilia Kwong are leading the effort to increase access to innovative depression treatments. Breakthru Psychiatric Solutions, a leading interventional psychiatric practice founded by Dr. Giles is proud to announce the opening of its second clinic, located in Alpharetta. Breakthru’s mission is to increase access for Georgians to cutting-edge treatments for individuals struggling with treatment-resistant depression and other mental health conditions. 3400 Old Milton Pkwy, Suite 220. BreakthruPsych.com Want
AN EVENING OF HOLIDAY FAVORITES BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND
Performing the hit song "Let It Go"
Thursday, Dec. 19 | 7 p.m. Scan for tickets
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BUY 2
I'm Dreaming of a... New Kitchen
ARTICLE BY ALPHARETTA CITY LIFESTYLE STAFF
’Tis the season to enjoy cooking for friends and family, celebrating blessings and a bright new year. Time in the kitchen should be a joy, and beautifully designed appliances are the cornerstone of a functional and aesthetically pleasing space. While stainless has been the queen of the kitchen in recent years, color is gaining popularity.
“Clients have been asking, and we listened - bring on the color,” says Shannon Lewis, Regional Marketing Manager for Sub-Zero Group Southeast. “Durable powder-coated steel doors in striking white or black offer new alternatives to classic stainless steel. Wolf is now offering new finishes for Dual Fuel Ranges and has added knob and bezel accent colors for Wolf Dual Fuel Range, Professional M Series Built-In Oven, or Professional Gas Cooktop.” Also, look for design-forward finishes like brushed brass or gray, or stick with the iconic red knobs with stainless bezels.
For serious home chefs, the Convection Steam Oven is at the top of the wish list. More than setting a temperature and cook time and hoping everything turns out, by utilizing steam, convection, or a combination of the two, this oven offers a diverse collection of nuanced cooking environments that deliver flavorful food meal after meal, Shannon explains. For big holiday meals, that’s a blessing.
Shannon is among the experienced team that includes Sub-Zero’s outside sales and the luxury concierge showroom. “Each team member is uniquely tailored depending on their role, but all work
Harrison Design
“Karen’s design is simply exceptional. The creativity, attention to detail, and innovation she demonstrates have truly set a new standard for not only kitchen design, but this global contest as well.”
together to truly provide an unmatched consumer experience,” she says. The outside sales team includes Debbie Killeen (Trade Representative), Lisa Connor (Territory Sales Manager), and Rob Zuelch (Territory Sales Manager). Whether on-site consultations, personalized product presentations/trainings, or addressing client-specific needs, this team is dedicated to building strong, lasting relationships with our dealers, builders, and anyone within the design trade community.
The showroom consultants and on-site chefs, run by Vicki Stevens (Showroom Manager), provide a hands-on, immersive experience for clients. In the showroom, customers can see, touch, and experience products firsthand, gaining insights that go beyond catalogs and screens. This team is all about personal interaction in a stress-free, non-retail space to answer questions, give advice, and ensure that clients leave with a sense of confidence and excitement about their appliance selections.
Recently, Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove –the industry leaders in premium refrigeration, cooking, and dishwashing –announced Karen Ferguson and Bulent Baydar with Harrison Design as a Global Winner of the Kitchen Design Contest at its Winners’ Summit and Gala.
Karen placed in the Traditional Kitchen category for her kitchen design “In Perfect Balance.”
“Karen’s design is simply exceptional. The creativity, attention to detail, and innovation she demonstrates have truly set a new standard for not only kitchen design, but this global contest as well. We are incredibly proud and value such a great partnership,” said Rob Maxam, President of Sub-Zero Group Southeast.
Sub-Zero Group, Inc. manufactures best-in-class appliance brands SubZero, Wolf, and Cove. Founded in 1945, Sub-Zero Group, Inc. is the leading American-based manufacturer of refrigeration, freezer, and wine storage products. Sub-Zero, the preservation specialist, pioneered the concept of dual refrigeration, ensuring that food stays fresher longer.
With the acquisition of Wolf Range Company in 2000, Sub-Zero Group, Inc. added the industry specialist in residential cooking appliances, with products including ranges, cooktops, wall ovens, warming drawers, and ventilation equipment. In 2018, Sub-Zero Group, Inc. launched the Cove brand of dishwashers, the specialist in all things clean. Oh la la!
SubZero-Wolf.com
Give Creativity & Fun
FIVE THOUGHTFUL HOLIDAY GIFTS TO SPARK JOY
ARTICLE BY ALEKS KAPETT
Gift-giving should be fun, not a last-second stressor that turns you into a Grinch. Seeing that special smile light up is a hard feeling to beat, so, here’s a list of gifts that blend creativity, a touch of retro charm, and just enough practicality to keep everyone happy and engaged as we bring 2024 to a close.
FLASHBACK DIGITAL CAMERA
As a storyteller and photographer, I might be biased, but The Flashback Digital Camera is where it’s at. This little beauty captures that vintage vibe with just enough tech to keep it easy. Snap a photo, and boom, you get that retro, ‘70s film look, straight to your phone. It’s the kind of gift that says, “Hey, I thought about this,” instead of, “Hey, I grabbed this on my way here.” JoinFlashback.co
GALAXY STAR PROJECTOR
If you don’t understand my perception of the holidays yet, you will with this gift. Holidays equal magic, and the Galaxy Star Projector delivers just that. You’ve got the lights dimmed, a toasty cup of hot chocolate, the fireplace is crackling, and suddenly your whole room is transformed into a starry night sky. It’s like bringing the Northern Lights into your living room, minus the frostbite and plane ticket to Iceland. It’s not just for kids’ rooms either, adults love it too. TheOriginalGalaxyProjector.com
TEENY-TINY CHRISTMAS TURNTABLE
Need a little extra charm in those stockings? This is one of the cutest, most incredible items to break out. It’s like those old-school record players we all secretly wish we had time for—except it fits in the palm of your hand and doesn’t need you to flip any records. It plays cute little snippets of holiday classics, making it feel
“It’s
like you’ve got your own personal soundtrack to the season. Think of it as the fun-sized candy bar of music— small, sweet, and always hits the spot. Amazon.com
FUJIFILM INSTAX MINI
Keeping memories stuck in the digital world is kind of like buying a cool vinyl record then streaming it on Spotify. Enter Fujifilm Instax Mini. This gadget takes your favorite photos and instantly turns them into that classic Polaroid we all know and love. It’s perfect for handing out snapshots at family dinners or creating an impromptu gallery wall of the season’s best moments. Instax.com
PHOTO ALBUM / POLAROID SCRAPBOOK KIT
Every great holiday deserves a place to live on. After you’ve snapped those perfect shots and printed them out, this kit gives you a home for all those memories. It’s the perfect gift for anyone who loves turning a pile of photos into a story—something you can flip through long after the decorations have come down. To this day my mom has an album (my sister and I put together) in her living room as decoration, and I’ll still be laughing at some of the ridiculous Christmas memories we decided to throw in there. Vienrose.shop
And there you have it! My top five picks to make your loved ones’ holiday experiences just a little brighter this season. These gifts are about sharing joy, sparking creativity, and capturing those unforgettable moments that make the holidays so special. Here’s to making this season merry, memorable, and maybe even a little bit picture-perfect!
Happy Holidays from all of us at Firelite Studios and City Lifestyle Magazines.
Making Spirits
JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.
Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.
One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.
Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.
These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just
about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”
We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.
To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.
The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.com
inspired GIVING
FUN IDEAS FOR GIVING
(AND RECEIVING, IF YOU'RE LUCKY)
ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS
For the feel-better fan
FOR THE FEEL-BETTER FAN
Dr. Dellaria at Holistic Health Center, P.C. specializes in patients who haven’t responded to traditional medical treatment. Treat them (or yourself) to a thorough wellness exam in the new year. Wellness Exam Gift Certificate $195
Holistic Health Center 11539 Park Woods Cir, #602, Alpharetta 678.366.0072
HolisticHealthGA.com
FOR THE FEEL-GOOD FAN
Give the quintessential gift of relaxation with a Waldorf Astoria Spa gift card. Purchase $400 or more in gift cards and receive a complimentary Zents candle or spend $1,000 or more and enjoy a complimentary plush robe (both available while supplies last). Share the joy of self-care and
well-deserved pampering with a gift that gives long after the holiday season. Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead 404.995.7500
Hilton.com
FOR THE SUGAR FAN
All the fixins from Georgia. This gift set includes a curated Georgia Collection of chocolates, Schnappers®, Chocolate Covered Blueberries, and Cinnamon Glazed Pecans. $94.99
453 Northolt Parkway, Suwanee 770.758.1550
BitzelsChocolate.com
FOR THE WINE FAN
The Hide Wine Caddy from Haven Lane Design will make everything taste more elegant. Crafted from high-quality, durable materials, this caddy is designed to hold your favorite wine bottle securely with an easy-tocarry handle and a stylish aesthetic. $92
5950 State Bridge Rd Suite 105, Duluth Instagram: @havenlanedesignboutique
FOR THE ENTREPRENEUR AND FINANCE FAN
City Lifestyle readers enjoy one month of free bookkeeping services or $100 off personal tax filing. Connect with Cambrean CPA to take advantage of this limited-time offer and save $100 off personal tax filing or one month of free bookkeeping for your business. 1702 Abbey Ct, Alpharetta CambreanCPA.com
FOR THE FUN FAN
Give the gift of a candle making experience. ReWax and UnWine Johns Creek eGift cards are unique and thoughtful gifts. Simply choose the amount and add a personalized message. ReWax & UnWine eGift Card $60 - $240. 6000 Medlock Bridge Pkwy, Suite E—100, Johns Creek 470.683.6058
RewaxAndUnwineJohnsCreek.com
For the wine fan
For the entrepreneur and finance fan
For the fun fan
For the sugar fan
FRIENDS OF THE ALPHARETTA LIBRARY BELIEVES IN BOOKS.
For the Love of Books
ARTICLE BY LINDA STATHAM
The Barbara Selwyn Bookstore inside is open daily where again books that have been donated are sold.
The current Friends of the Alpharetta Library (FOTAL) organization was established in 1991. We are proud to celebrate our thirty-third year of existence. Many of those early volunteers continue to work diligently to support the library. Many others have joined in over the years to raise funds to purchase items needed by the library.
The Alpharetta Library started out having a station wagon as their “first” library. Then in 1966, the library was housed in the former City Hall building. It later moved to a commercial building in downtown Alpharetta while waiting for the new 10,000-squarefoot library to be built in 1989. That is currently the Arts Alpharetta building. Alpharetta natives, Louie and Gertrude Jones, graciously donated a large amount of funds for that building and thus it is named after the couple. In July of 2015, our present library was built next to City Hall.
Monthly book sales consisting of books donated from the community are held at the library each month from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. on the first Saturday. When weather permits, it is held on the porch. During inclement weather, it is held downstairs in the children’s reading room. The Barbara Selwyn Bookstore inside is open daily where more donated books are sold. Sales are also made online.
We have an excellent staff employed at the Alpharetta Library. They are always appreciative of the support and funds they receive from FOTAL. We have a wonderful working relationship with them. We are happy to be able to support them financially while showering them with constant appreciation for all they do for the community.
The active group has been recognized yearly at the Volunteer Recognition program for its hours of
dedication. Milton High School students volunteer each month to help with the set-up of the sales and then help in returning any unsold books back to the storage area. The FOTAL organization is thankful to have such great team members for the past 33 years!
HERE ARE TITLES WORTH READING (OR GIVING) THIS HOLIDAY SEASON.
1. “Quite a Year for Plums” by Bailey White, a best-selling humorous, South Georgia author. Heartbreakingly tender, often hilarious, this book is a delectable treat from a writer who has been called a national treasure.
2. Bailey White also wrote “Sleeping at the Starlite Motel” and “Mama Makes Up Her Mind.”
3. “The Art & Life of Atlanta Artist, Wilbur G. Kurtz” by David O’Connell. If you enjoy Atlanta history, you will want to read this book about this famous artist-historian.
4. “Peachtree Road” by Anne Rivers Siddons. A very interesting and historical book about our Atlanta. She writes about the heart and soul of our beloved city.
5. “A Place Called Sweet Apple” by Celestine Sibley. Ms. Sibley was a columnist at the Atlanta Journal for many years. This book is about her unique log cabin north of Roswell.
6. “The Roswell Women” by Frances Patton Statham. This is an intriguing book about the brave Roswell women who ran the Roswell, GA mill during the Civil War.
7. “Dreamland” by Nicholas Sparks. Any of his 24 novels is worth a good read. This is a poignant love story about risking everything for a dream and whether it’s possible to leave the past behind.
FOTAL.org
Uthan Vivek, MD, FRCS (Glasgow), FACS
Mehul Joshi, DO, MS, RPVI
Visharad Patel, DO, MS, RPVI
James Res, DO, RPVI
Arterial
Aortic
The kitchen. It’s where we strive to delight the people we love with the freshest food, exquisitely prepared and beautifully presented.
Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove appliances are meticulously crafted to achieve a higher standard of performance, dependability, and style—so you can raise the bar on every meal you make.
Your future kitchen starts with Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove, featured at
BE THEIR GUEST
When out of town guests come to stay, sometimes a hotel works best.
ARTICLE BY KEN JACKSON, SUMMER J. ROBINSON
MODERN COMFORT MEETS ROARING 20S ELEGANCE AT THE HAMILTON
Stepping through the sliding glass doors of The Hamilton in Downtown Alpharetta, I felt as though I had time-traveled back to the Roaring 20s—but with a modern twist. From the
The Hamilton, Alpharetta
How I’ve managed to live in Atlanta my whole life and never been to Hotel Granada is beyond me!
grand foyer to the design of my King Studio Suite, I knew it would be a timeless stay. After a warm welcome from the hospitable receptionists and making my way up to my room, I couldn’t wait to see what my home-for-the-night would look like.
As I stepped into my room, I was pleasantly surprised by how secluded and serene it felt, as if it were my own little world.
Carrie’s Conservatory, the hotel’s restaurant and bar had an energetic charm and a varied menu for both dinner and breakfast the next morning. Ken Jackson
The Hamilton Alpharetta, Curio Collection by Hilton 35 Milton Ave, Alpharetta Hilton.com
INTOWN CHARM AT HOTEL GRANADA
How I’ve managed to live in Atlanta my whole life and never been to Hotel Granada is beyond
me! Although the hotel just opened August 2024, the building has been around since 1924 and it is truly a work of art. From the beautifully designed courtyard to the charming rooms, this hotel is the perfect place for a weekend getaway or your out-of-town guests. After checking into my room, I enjoyed drinks at the downstairs May Peel cocktail bar and learned about the history of the hotel. Drinks were followed by dinner at the Pom Court. Although I experienced the quaint luxury of Hotel Granada during the week, I will surely be back on a Friday or Saturday night when I can take my pick of enjoying live music out on the courtyard or vibing out near the DJ set with a cocktail in hand at May Peel. Summer J. Robinson
1302 W Peachtree St NW GranadaAtlanta.com
Hotel Granada, Midtown
Giving the Gift of Galápagos
Luxurious environmentally sensitive private yacht excursions changing the way we travel
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY SEAN O'KEEFE
Right: Master and Commander of the voyage, the author Top Left: Up close and personal; Kicker Island Middle Left: Snorkling was unbelievable; there is so much color in the sea Bottom Left: Albatross peek out to say hello.
I wasn’t quite sure what to expect when I received the invitation to explore The Galápagos Islands on Ecoventura’s luxury expedition private yacht, Theory. Perhaps one of the world’s most remote and exclusive travel destinations, the archipelago, located some 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, has captivated explorers and adventurers for centuries; inspiring Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution. Home to countless species of native flora and fauna, the voyage was to be the adventure of a lifetime offering a world-class Relais & Châteaux experience while circumnavigating the rich ecological history of our planet.
Perfect for the luxury traveler, Ecoventura’s environmentally sound and socially responsible approach to ecotourism is a hallmark of the adventure that focuses on sustainable travel and conservation. The bespoke and personalized service onboard is nothing short of amazing. Theory is truly a floating world-class hotel, with every amenity imaginable.
Guests onboard Theory can explore remote islands, encounter unique wildlife, and enjoy fine dining all while sailing through crystal-clear water from one island destination to another. Walls of windows, impeccably appointed staterooms, welcoming guest lounges, rooftop sundecks, a library, and gourmet dining, elevate the experience beyond expectation. The gracious and accommodating staff are always there to heighten the guest experience every step of the way. From gourmet meals and fine service to hot chocolate after a snorkeling adventure, Theory excels at creating memories.
It is the unsung blend of hospitality and adventure that makes Ecoventura truly exceptional. Ecoventura offers itineraries that allow guests to explore the unique wildlife and stunning landscapes of the Galápagos, all while minimizing their ecological footprint. Each day of this remarkable journey is filled with thoughtfully curated expeditions, guided by expertly skilled naturalists, offering opportunities to interact with nature.
Welcome onboard Ecoventura's Theory
Established in 1793 by Captain James
the wooden barrel was to serve as a sailors’ post office.
Floreana's Post Office Bay, established in the late 18th century, is a unique mail system where visitors leave letters in a wooden barrel for travelers to handdeliver. This centuries-old tradition embodies the spirit of adventure and camaraderie among visitors, making it a charming stop on any Galápagos itinerary.
Kicker rock or Leon Dormido is an amazing rock formation nearby San Cristobal Island
Colnett,
Pink Flamingos at rest.
The iconic Blue Footed Boobie Visiting the gigantic tortoises on Santa Cruz
The beaches of San Cristobal
Land Iguana
Daily Zodiac boat rides reveal some of the best snorkeling and ocean kayaking the world has to offer while also giving us access to a multitude of other-worldly island landscapes that help to define the Galápagos adventure. Whether walking across the barren volcanic hills, hiking along the seaside cliffs, or leisurely strolling the seemingly endless, vibrantly colored, pristine beaches, each sojourn brought us face to face with some of the world’s most spectacular animals who genuinely seemed to be as curious about us as we were about them.
On Floreana and San Cristóbal islands, we walked in the footprints left by Darwin’s expedition in 1835. Marine and land iguanas, giant tortoises, green sea turtles, flamingos, and the forever famous and super curious Galápagos sea lions welcomed us almost everywhere. Each hike, of which there were many during the seven-day voyage, not only showed us the unique island environments, but gave us insight into life on the island.
The oceans surrounding the Galápagos Islands are teeming with splendid color and an endless assortment of beautifully colored fish. There were Yellowtail surgeonfish, King Angelfish, and Black-nosed Butterflyfish on our snorkeling adventures. Not to be outdone, the waters, and more importantly the ocean currents were also filled with sea turtles, gigantic luminescent starfish, sharks, dolphins, whales, octopus, sea lions and, in the waters surrounding Pinnacle Rock on Bartolomé, we were lucky to see the rarest species of penguin in the world.
The skies above us hosted a flurry of activity. The waved albatross, Galápagos hawks, magnificent frigate birds, lava gulls, the iconic blue-footed boobies, and countless species of finch seemed to follow us wherever we went. The Galápagos Islands are a birdwatcher’s paradise. Observing these fascinating birds in their natural habitat was an unforgettable experience.
Gifting a trip to the Galápagos Islands for Christmas is an extraordinary idea, offering unforgettable experiences in a stunning natural environment. It is a present that will last a lifetime.
BEAUTIFUL BUNS
ARTICLE BY BRANDA PETERSON
Baked Bacon Cinnamon Rolls
Every holiday season my kids get so excited because they know on one day in particular, they will wake up to the sweet aroma of cinnamon, butter, freshly baked bread and bacon. Who could ask for a better combo right?
This combo is one of my family favorites and it only shows itself during the holidays. So to keep up the tradition, I am sharing our fave with you.
PS… I worked at Cinnabon in high school so this is right up my alley.
ITEMS NEEDED
• 2 T butter
• 1 cup of milk
• 2 1/4 t instant yeast
• 1/2 T salt
• 1/4 cup white sugar
• 1 egg
• 3 cups of flour
Cinnamon sugar filling:
• 6 T butter, softened
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 T cinnamon or to taste
The first step is to mix your dry ingredients together in a big bowl and this includes the flour, sugar, and salt. After that, warm the milk and butter together, and then whisk in the yeast until it has dissolved. Then you know it can start working its magic in your dough!
Pour this mixture over the dry ingredients, add the egg and then mix everything together. You do not need a stand mixer for this recipe, though you could certainly use one if desired.
Transfer dough to your work surface, and then knead by hand for 3 minutes until a soft dough forms (below, right). Let the dough rest for 10 minutes as you prepare the filling—this gives the dough’s gluten a chance to settle and relax, which will make rolling out much easier.
Bake at 350 degrees for 23 minutes. While baking your rolls, fry a pack of thick sliced bacon, dry on paper towel or rack.
Icing - Cream Cheese icing (Go ahead, use Betty Crocker) Then you crumble your bacon into little bites. When the rolls are out of the oven, sprinkle a healthy amount of bacon on the rolls and cover, or smother the rolls in creamy cream cheese icing.
I promise your family will shower you with kisses and warm compliments once they’ve had a bite.
Branda is the Founder at Alpharetta Housewives LLC.
DECEMBER 5TH
Holly Jolly Block Party
City Hall | 4:00 PM
The Holly Jolly Block Party is a celebration for the whole family and marks the start of the holiday season. Join friends and neighbors for an evening of fun and festivities!
DECEMBER 14TH
Breakfast with Santa Park Place at Newtown School 3125 Old Alabama Road | 9:30 AM
Jolly Old St. Nick is visiting Johns Creek and invites all the good girls and boys for time with the Big Elf himself. There will be goodies, music, and holiday crafts. Two seating times, 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. $20 per resident child, $30 per non-resident child, accompanied by an adult (limit of two adults per family).
DECEMBER 21ST
Ugly Sweater Holiday Party
ReWax & UnWine | 6:00 PM
ReWax & UnWine candle making experience would like to thank their customers with a holiday party. Dust off those holiday sweaters and round up your pals, the best sweater wins a prize. Enjoy a fun-filled evening with candle making, karaoke/candle trivia, and LIT vibes. Book Today RewaxAndUnwineJohnsCreek.com
Hello, From Asheville
How you can help
ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS
Since Hurricane Helene devastated parts of southern Appalachia in late September, the area has made incredible progress toward restoring a sense of normalcy and revitalizing local economies that depend heavily on tourism and visitors.
We caught up with local realtor Preston Mayfield who kindly provided an update. He explains that while some areas like Bryson City and Highlands sustained little damage, others like Black Mountain and Asheville and towns along rivers that flooded such as Marshall and Spruce Pine, have a much longer recovery ahead. “The same can be said about Biltmore Village and the River Arts District in Asheville. While it will take months, and in some places years to rebuild, Asheville and most of the surrounding towns are welcoming back visitors who come with patience and understanding of the current situation,” says Preston, who relocated with his family from Atlanta in 2021 and has been exploring Western North Carolina’s rivers and trails all his life.
While it is still too early to comprehend the impact of the storm on the WNC real estate market, Preston made some notes for us:
1) WNC is still an incredibly beautiful and desirable place to live. Although many parts of the Blue Ridge Parkway and other WNC attractions will be closed for repairs, there are plenty of other places to get amazing views and enjoy life in the mountains.
2) Housing inventory has taken a hit in a market that already had relatively low supply and high demand.
3) There is much to learn from markets that have survived similar disasters. For example, post-Katrina average home prices rose about 10% within 6 months and annual appreciation increased from 7.6% to 14.1%.
Find Preston at NCMountainRE.com
Ongoing needs to help keep people fed and warm in the most impacted areas can be supported through the following organizations: Always.ExploreAsheville.com MannaFoodBank.org SamaritansPurse.org BelovedAsheville.com/donate
