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IS S UE 1 M AY | JUNE 2022
A letter from the Publisher KATHY FOX PUBLISHER | EDITOR IN CHIEF Hello Williamson County! Let me introduce myself as the publisher of the new Williamson County Living magazine. Like many of you, my path changed during 2020 which led me to embark on my new publishing journey, Maury County Living lifestyle magazine. Before that, I published a Nashville tourism magazine and when travel was shut down, I seized the opportunity to launch a lifestyle magazine.
PUBLISHER EDITOR IN CHIEF Kathy Fox
CREATIVE | ART DIRECTOR Shelly Wells
DIGITAL DIRECTOR Christopher Hughes SENIOR EDITOR William Harwood
Fast forward, we have now expanded to Williamson County and I have truly been humbled by the show of support from the community, residents, and businesses. Seeing the beautiful soul of the communities in Williamson County and surrounding areas creates such hope. For this reason, the magazine was created just for you and is bursting with content created right here in Williamson County and Middle Tennessee.
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Kathy Fox
William Harwood Michelle Houk Phil Mazzuca
In each issue, articles will showcase the talents and knowledge of local business owners
Amy Montgomery
and residents complemented by beautiful photos. Our first cover presents local resident
Elizabeth Shane
Larry Gatlin and includes a feature about The Gatlin Brothers. We also included an article showcasing gorgeous photos from around the world by a distinguished Franklin photographer, must-have kitchen gadgets, and for those with a sweet tooth — a fantastic carrot cake recipe from a castle café in Scotland that is simply perfect for summer. Learn about the triumph of a single mom, tips on positive parenting, how to use kitchen towels as placemats, and why Amish furniture is not what you’re thinking it is. I cannot begin to express my appreciation for those who contributed to this publication, whether it be through advertising, photography, or editorial content — thank you from the bottom of my heart. Our mission at Williamson County Living magazine is to connect the residents of Williamson County to local businesses through a collection of curated features and articles via print and social media. Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook, and tag us using #williamsoncoliving and remember to support the locally-owned businesses, who make this magazine possible. They need us now more than ever! Thank you for reading the first issue — I’m looking forward to connecting with you this year! Many blessings,
CONNECT WITH US @williamsoncoliving
Stefanie O’Reilly Stricker Kathryn York PHOTOGRAPHERS Allison Elefante Chris Hollo Braden Parsons Jim Zuckerman ONLINE
williamsoncoliving.com SOCIAL MEDIA
@williamsoncoliving ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES musiccitypublications@gmail.com
Williamson County Living is a bimonthly magazine published by Music City Publications, Inc., and distributed via the United States Postal Service to some of Williamson County’s most affluent homes. Under the Fair Housing Act of 1968 and the Tennessee Human Rights Act, it is unlawful to discriminate in housing transactions based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, or family status. The entire contents of Williamson County Living are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without express written consent. Articles and content of Williamson County Living do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Music City Publications, Inc. nor does Music City Publications, Inc., assume responsibility for writers’ opinions and content or the products and services advertised herein.
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DECOR & LIFESTYLE
GIFT REGISTRY
HOME STYLING
3 0 P U B L I C S Q U A R E , C O L U M B I A , T E N N E S S E E • W W W . SWM YGO I L LI I AT MH S OA N CN OLD IVIN . C OR M K| . C7O
TABLE OF
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36 30
Contents 11
WILLIAMSON COUNTY’S OWN: THE GATLIN BROTHERS
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PICTURES ARE PARAMOUNT
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RETHINKING THE WAY WE BUY FURNITURE
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5 MUST-HAVE KITCHEN GADGETS
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WILLIAMSON MEDICAL CENTER
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FOCUS ON THE GOOD — LEARNING HOW TO DREAM AGAIN
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DELICIOUS HAPPINESS: COMFORTING CARROT CAKE
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POSITIVE PARENTING: CONNECT, EMPOWER AND CORRECT
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KITCHEN TOWELS AS PLACEMATS
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ON THE COVER: LARRY GATLIN PHOTO BY BRANDON WOOD, INDIE BLING STUDIO
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W I L L I A M S O N CO U N TY ’ S O W N
PHOTO BY NATHAN ZUCKER
THE GATLIN BROTHERS By William Harwood
From left: Steve, Larry and Rudy Gatlin WILLIAMSONCOLIVING.COM
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We asked the brothers if they were nervous. Larry, the oldest at 73, answered first. “Nervous? No, we get excited. Nervous means you’re going to suck the mop. Excited means you’re about to go out there and do what you were born to do with your best friends and brothers with your God-given ability and talent.” Larry knows of which he speaks. The GRAMMY® Award-winning Gatlin Brothers have been members of the Grand Ole Opry for almost 46 years and have been performing together since 1955 when Larry was six, Steve four, and Rudy two. Plus, in Larry’s career as a songwriter, he has composed hit songs performed not only by himself and his brothers, but also by the likes of Dottie West, Glen Campbell, Johnny Cash, and Kris Kristofferson. His songs rank 4th on Billboard’s Top 40 self-penned hits, and he has been inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. Nor has his musical well run dry. Far from it. Just a few years ago, Larry wrote a musical based on the life of Quanah Parker that received rave reviews, a
who possess extraordinary musical gifts. A Top 40 List wouldn’t cut it; we would need a Hot 100 and then some. But coming in near the top of either chart would definitely be Larry, Steve & Rudy: The Gatlin Brothers. Hailing from West Texas, the three brothers now call Williamson County home. We recently caught up with the talented trio in a Grand Ole Opry dressing room right before airtime of Opry Country Classics, a show which Larry hosts. In just minutes, the three
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The conversation turned to memories of playing the Grand Ole Opry back when it was at the Ryman Auditorium. “The first time we played the Opry was back in 1971,” Larry recalls, “August. No air conditioning. Saturday matinee. Two o’clock. Hotter than 102 rats making love in a wool sock.” “Whoa!” Steve interjects with a grin next to his brother. “Have to clean that up!” “He did clean that up,” Rudy points out sporting an even bigger
thousands, either listening in the Opry itself or live on radio,
grin. (Apparently, in the past, their older brother has used even
650 AM/WSM. For most folks, that would be the recipe for an
saltier language to convey just how hot and stuffy that first Opry
anxiety dream.
experience was.)
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PHOTO BY CHRIS HOLLO
would step onstage and share their songs with untold
PHOTO BY CHRIS HOLLO
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work he hopes to revive now that the pandemic is fading.
PHOTO BY CHRIS HOLLO
In Williamson County, we are blessed with many neighbors
PHOTO BY BRANDON WOOD, INDIE BLING STUDIO
But then Larry turns serious. “I feel an honor
telling anybody else how to do it, but it’s not a thoroughfare for me. That’s a sacred place.” It’s certainly a stage that he, Steve, and Rudy have
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE GATLIN BROTHERS
helped sanctify.
I FEEL AN HONOR EVERY TIME I COME ON THE OPRY STAGE. BUT I DON’T WALK ACROSS IT IF I’M NOT PERFORMING. I’M NOT TELLING ANYBODY ELSE HOW TO DO IT, BUT IT’S NOT A THOROUGHFARE FOR ME. THAT’S A SACRED PLACE.
THE GRAMMY® AWARD-WINNING GATLIN BROTHERS HAVE BEEN MEMBERS OF THE GRAND OLE OPRY FOR ALMOST 46 YEARS AND HAVE BEEN PERFORMING TOGETHER SINCE 1955 WHEN LARRY WAS SIX, STEVE FOUR, AND RUDY TWO.
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE GATLIN BROTHERS
walk across it if I’m not performing. I’m not
PHOTO BY CHRIS HOLLO
every time I come on the Opry stage. But I don’t
Steve, Larry and Rudy Gatlin, accompanied by their mother, Billie Doan Gatlin, at The Grand Ole Opry, circa 2015.
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The Gatlin Brothers have racked up numerous awards and accolades with a body of work that includes 32 Top 40 records and seven numberone singles. It is little wonder that they have been booked to perform such notable gigs at Madison Square Garden, the White House, and PHOTO BY NATHAN ZUCKER
Carnegie Hall.
When not exercising or gently joking with one another, Larry, Steve, and Rudy can be found at some of their favorite local restaurants — among them Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille, Garcia’s, Stoney River, and Dickey’s BBQ — or behind the pages of one of their favorite books. Steve mentions Boys in the Boat by Daniel James Brown, a story of nine, working-class boys from the American West succeeding at rowing during the 1936 Olympics in Berlin. As for Larry, an English major, he is drawn to the classics and can quote from memory passages of James Joyce. Along with great writers like Faulkner and Hemmingway, Larry mentions The Road Less Traveled, the spiritual classic by M. Scott Peck. “I still remember lessons from that book,” he says. “One being — don’t put off until later what you can do today.” Very wise advice from a creative PHOTO BY CHRIS HOLLO
spirit who clearly practices what he preaches.
LARRY AND STEVE ARE REGULAR ROWERS AT THE ROW HOUSE AND ALL THREE PLAY GOLF, OFTEN AT THE BRENTWOOD COUNTRY CLUB. RUDY SOMETIMES EVEN ENJOYS WALKING THE PAR 3 AT THE GOLF HOUSE OF TENNESSEE.
But not all time is spent writing songs, touring the world, and making music; the brothers Gatlin are happy to hang out here at home as well. Exercise is one way they relax. Larry and Steve are regular rowers at The Row House and all three play golf, often at the Brentwood Country Club. Rudy sometimes even enjoys walking the par 3 at the Golf House of Tennessee.
To go hear the Gatlin Brothers’ musical inspiration for yourself, you need neither go far, nor wait long. They will be back at the Grand Ole Opry on May 5 and will be headlining at The Mulehouse in Columbia on May 13. For additional information on upcoming shows or to purchase tickets, visit opry.com or themulehouse.com. n
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Making your event special is our specialty.
BOOK YOUR NEXT CATERING EVENT TODAY! VISIT WWW.THEDOTTEDLIME.COM/CATERING.
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P I C T U R E S
A R E
PARAMOUNT By Elizabeth Shane
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PHOTOGRAPHY BY JIM ZUCKERMAN
Photography is an art that captures true beauty in the eyes of the beholder at a particular moment in time. It is a creative expression used to capture stunning and awe-inspiring moments. Jim Zuckerman, a Franklin resident, has a gift for capturing those moments locally and around the globe. In 1970, Zuckerman left his medical studies to pursue his love of photography. With no formal training in art, it took several years to develop his style and learn how to market his work. His photography has been highly sought after for the past five decades and has been published in hundreds of magazines including the National Geographic Society, Time-Life, Conde-Nast Traveler, Life Magazine, The Economist, LEFT PAGE: HANG GLIDER DESCENDING IN FRONT OF A HUGE SAND DUNE, SOSSUSVLEI, NAMIBIA TOP: GWALIOR FORT, GWALIOR, INDIA BOTTOM: CHEETAH MOTHER AND CUBS, MASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE, KENYA
and Outdoor Photographer. Zuckerman’s work has also been sold to jigsaw puzzle manufacturers, poster companies, greeting card publishers, mural companies, corporate annual reports, calendar publishers, and advertising agencies and he has also penned more than 26 books about photography. WILLIAMSONCOLIVING.COM
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Many years ago, Zuckerman realized amateur photographers wanted to travel and take beautiful pictures of wonderful places and unique subjects. Because of this demand, he began leading photography tours, first domestically and then internationally, in which he teaches clients how to take stunning photographs in a wide variety of locations. As he explains, “My philosophy in leading photo tours is simple. The pictures are paramount. The people who travel with me know they will take the best pictures of their lives.” Zuckerman seeks to capture the beauty of our world, leaving the dark side of life to other photographers. He
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TOP LEFT: FEMALE SNOWY OWL IN FLIGHT, NORTHERN CANADA
never specialized in a particular genre of picture taking, but
TOP RIGHT: 6-YEAR-OLD GIRL PARTICIPATING IN THE JEMBER FASHION CARNAVAL, JEMBER, EAST JAVA INDONESIA
his diversity of subject matter is unique in the professional
BOTTOM LEFT: STAIRCASE IN THE LELLO BOOKSTORE, PORTO, PORTUGAL
area. He says, “It’s all about taking great photographs.”
BOTTOM RIGHT: VEILED WOMAN IN CHEFCHAOUEN, MOROCCO, "THE BLUE CITY"
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Groups are typically small, with 6-10 people, and as a result of his exhaustive research and decades of traveling, his clients are privileged to see and photograph spectacular things such as African wildlife, interiors of awesome cathedrals, dazzling festivals, colorful birds, and exotic cultures. Zuckerman instructs them on which lenses to use, how to overcome exposure challenges such as when shooting on snow, what camera settings to use for capturing action, how to photograph the Milky Way, and how to set up an HDR sequence to reveal as much detail as possible in contrasty lighting conditions. Zuckerman leads domestic photo tours which include intriguing destinations such as the Louisiana swamps, the Hudson River Valley, the Bisti Badlands of New Mexico, autumn in Vermont, and lighthouses in New England. His international tours span the globe, and they encompass exotic destinations like Morocco, Mongolia, Namibia, Uzbekistan, and Indonesia.
For great architecture, Zuckerman’s favorite destinations are Europe and Russia. The castles, palaces, and cathedrals are awe-inspiring. For spectacular wildlife photography, there is nothing like the plains of East and Southern Africa, but he also loves the Pantanal region of Brazil where wild jaguars hunt caiman in serpentine rivers and where there is a tremendous diversity of magnificent birds. For unparalleled
TOP: HORSES OF THE CAMARGUE RUNNING AT THE CAMERA THROUGH THE MARSH, SOUTHERN FRANCE RIGHT: ST. MAGDALENA VILLAGE AND THE DOLOMITE RANGE, NORTHERN ITALY
photography of people, there is no place like India according to Zuckerman. When it comes to landscapes, his favorite places for breathtaking scenery are the American Southwest, Patagonia, Central China, and the Dolomite Range in Northern Italy. For seemingly going back in time 20,000 years, nothing compares to the Omo River Valley in Ethiopia. WILLIAMSONCOLIVING.COM
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Photography tours are a complete immersion experience. Leisurely breakfasts and lazy time by the pool are not on the agenda. Zuckerman always tells his clients they can rest when they get home! Often groups are up very early to capture dawn and sunrise lighting and sometimes bad roads have to be covered to get to a particularly great waterfall, ice cave, tribal village, or landscape viewpoint. Winter photography means clients have to prepare for the serious cold, and at other times extreme heat typical of deserts and tropical rainforests have to be tolerated. In a large city with a dynamic skyline, night photography might keep the group out late. When foreign models have been scheduled, such as a ballerina in Cuba, Balinese dancers in Indonesia, an eagle hunter galloping on a horse with his golden eagle in Mongolia, clients have to understand the meal schedule has to be flexible. Everyone knows and understands on one of Zuckerman’s tours, they will return home with a wealth of remarkable images. It’s all about taking outstanding photographs and TOP: TWILIGHT IN THE VILLAGE OF VERNAZZA ON THE CINQUE TERRE COAST, ITALY
experiencing the world in ways most people never do.
BOTTOM: PARTICIPANTS IN CANIVAL IN A MEDIEVAL PALACE, VENICE, ITALY
For information on an upcoming tour or workshop, visit jimzuckerman.com. You can also subscribe to a
free monthly eMagazine, Photo Insights, which features articles on photography and Photoshop. n 20
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imagine ... More than sixty years ago, the building hummed of sewing machines and production at one of the largest shirt factories in southern Tennessee. Now fast forward to find this incredible 71,000 square foot industrial facility converted to its present-day grandeur with the original steel windows and doors, an outside deck for music and entertainment, food, gifts, specialty tea, a boutique resale shop, and so much more. There is ample parking, and you can expect the unexpected from
101 NORTH JAMES M. CAMPBELL BOULEVARD | COLUMBIA, TN
music on Saturdays, to rare antiques and treasures of all kinds every day of the week. Plan your day at the Factory at Columbia and experience
factoryatcolumbia
all these wonderful retail and dining establishments under one roof.
WE DO ... Private Events • Markets Meetings and More CONTACT US AT
events@factoryatcolumbia.com MOVIES AND LIVE MUSIC FREE childrenʼs movies. (Bring your chairs!)
Awesome lineup of top tier live music on our new stage and 15,000 square foot music venue. NATIONAL EUROPEAN ANTIQUE IMPORTER TO THE TRADE
(615) 499-1292 | Vintique.com
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Stop by for coffee or cocoa from Jerrico Coffee and enjoy the new 10' fire pit.
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NATIONAL ANTIQUE BOOK SUPPLIER TO THE TRADE
(615) 499-1292 | LeatherBooks.com
(615) 497-2402 | forkofthesouth.com
(714) 277-2458 | thelocolemon.com
QUINTESSENTIAL SOUTHERN COASTAL SANDALS
(615) 377-4644 | southernpolished.com
AUTHENTIC YOGA STUDIO NASHVILLE TEA HOUSE, CAFÉ, & TEA BAR
(931) 982-6083 | nashvilletea.com
AN ARTISAN BAKERY AND CAFÉ
(931) 548-2101 | bsaltyandsweet.com
(Also in Spring Hill)
(931) 505-4100 | lotusrisingtn.com WILLIAMSONCOLIVING.COM
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RETHINKING THE WAY WE BUY
By Stefanie O'Reilly Stricker
Stuck on the sofa with you When Americans first went home to stop the spread of COVID-19, we had to rethink how we lived, worked, studied, relaxed, and stayed fit — all without leaving the house. As we spent more time inside, many decided our living spaces needed an upgrade. Our sofa was uncomfortable and our dining table was definitely not big enough for home-schooling. Families needed to be comfortable at home, and furniture sales boomed. When stores could not replenish stock due to shortages and delays, customer choices became more limited. It was time to rethink the way we buy furniture, too. Our new, family-run business had just opened in Nashville and was ready to offer shoppers a solution.
A new way to buy furniture O’Reilly’s Amish furniture opened in January 2020, ready to change the way people buy furniture. Everything at O’Reilly’s is made in America, with much of it handcrafted by small Amish businesses in Ohio. Throughout the pandemic, solid-wood furniture could still be created in each small Amish shop and carefully wrapped in blankets for delivery to Nashville. O’Reilly’s customers could still get what they needed and choose exactly what they wanted.
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My dad, Gary O’Reilly, has been in the furniture business for more than four decades. When he and mom moved to Nashville to be closer to their grandchildren, we thought my dad might retire. However, his passion for selling Amish and American-made furniture was still strong, and he wanted to bring it to Middle Tennessee. O’Reilly’s Amish Furniture opened just before the pandemic, but Gary was steadfast in his belief
CUSTOMERS SHOULDN’T HAVE TO SETTLE! FURNITURE IS A BIG PURCHASE, AND THEY SHOULD GET EXACTLY WHAT THEY WANT.
that this furniture would be the right choice for families, even during a pandemic. Now in his third year, my dad is so excited about the community’s response to his collections of exclusively American-made home furnishings.
GARY LOVES TO CONFOUND CUSTOMERS’ EXPECTATIONS BY SHOWING TABLES WITH A “RIVER” OF GLASS OR COLORED RESIN FLOWING THROUGH THE MIDDLE.
Gary has built relationships with over 50 Amish builders whose solid-wood, handcrafted American furniture far exceeds the quality of the imports most stores carry today. The ability to customize is a big selling point, and many customers tell us they looked for months or years without finding what they wanted. Gary is delighted to tell them about all the ways we can customize. “I have an incredible opportunity to tell people ‘yes’ almost every time they walk through our doors,” he says. WILLIAMSONCOLIVING.COM
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EVERYTHING AT O’REILLY’S IS MADE IN AMERICA, WITH MUCH OF IT HANDCRAFTED BY SMALL AMISH BUSINESSES IN OHIO.
This is not your grandfather’s Amish Sometimes before he gets to tell a customer “yes”, Gary has to first say, “This is NOT your grandfather’s Amish.” People are surprised that our furniture isn’t just oak rocking chairs or Mission style tables. Our Amish furniture can be made in almost any style from Mid-century Modern to farmhouse to contemporary. Gary loves to confound customers’ expectations by showing tables with a “river” of glass or colored resin flowing through the middle, a four-inch thick live-edge cocktail table on a metal base, or fractal-burned table-top that looks like lightning struck it. Amish furniture is special, and Gary knows it’s because of the builders’ true craftsmanship and attention to detail. They are artists, who are as happy to make an heirloom-quality piece as they are to create a dazzling one-of-a-kind statement piece.
O’REILLY’S SOLID-WOOD AMISH FURNITURE CAN BE CUSTOM-ORDERED IN OAK, MAPLE, CHERRY, HICKORY, ELM, AND WALNUT. CUSTOMERS CHOOSE FROM OVER 100 DIFFERENT FINISHES AND 400 PIECES OF HARDWARE. 26
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O’Reilly’s solid-wood Amish furniture can be custom-ordered in oak, maple, cherry, hickory, elm, and walnut. Customers choose from over 100 different finishes and 400 pieces of hardware. Dining, bedroom, home office, living room, and entertainment pieces can be made to a customer’s exact size specifications. “Customers shouldn’t have to settle! Furniture is a big purchase, and they should get exactly what they want,” Gary says. My dad has always believed customers deserve outstanding service from a business they can trust. He also knows that craftsmanship and quality make Amish furniture the right choice for any family. His Nashville customers seem to agree! Stop in to see us at O’Reilly’s Amish Furniture on Highway 100 — one mile east of Loveless Cafe. n
STEFANIE O’REILLY STRICKER is the Marketing Director for her family’s small business. Stefanie and her husband are proud parents to three wonderful kids. She enjoys curling up with a good book, seeing live music, and family game nights.
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Make Cooking a Breeze
5 MUST-HAVE
KITCHEN GADGETS By Kathryn York
A kitchen is the heart of any home. It’s a place where
memories are made — in addition to delicious savory foods and sweet treats. The best kitchens are equipped with
helpful tools to not only make cooking easy but also fun. So, whether you are a self-proclaimed home chef, or if you’ve
never prepared a meal that didn’t involve a microwave, here are five must-have kitchen gadgets that you may not have nor ever realized you needed!
PHOTOS BY BRADEN PARSONS
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Fish Spatula
You’re probably already thinking to yourself ... a fish spatula is for, well ... fish. And you’re right! But, did you know that a fish spatula can be used for so much more? Designed with a wide head that tapers toward the handle and large spaces between its slots, a fish spatula is commonly used for all types of delicate foods. Much more versatile than a traditional spatula, one of the best uses for a fish spatula is for removing warm cookies or pastries from a sheet pan. Also, with its sharp and sturdy edges, it’s also great for breaking up ground beef in a pan. Also, a fish spatula’s slotted shape can work in a pinch when you’re frying foods and don’t have a slotted spoon or traditional spatula on hand. All in all, a fish spatula is a practical and easy-to-find tool that you’ll definitely want to add to your kitchen collection.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROSS JAYNES VISUAL MEDIA CO. NELSON HOUSE HOTEL
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2 Dual Grater If you love using a grater, you’ll definitely love a dual grater. This handy gadget combines fine and course grating surfaces in one easy handheld unit. Dual graters are perfect for citrus zest, nutmeg, hard cheeses (like parmesan), and vegetables. While dual graters are excellent tools for prepping food and baking, you can also use them for garnishing dishes. You can add a variety of colors, flavors, and textures to your food presentation by adding a little zest (literally). It’s even fun to use a dual grater when making fancy cocktails and adding a splash of ginger or lime to make it just right.
3 Digital Pocket Thermometer When cooking meat do you ever ask yourself or a family member, “Does this look done to you?” Especially with pork, it can be hard to determine when the meat is cooked to perfection. You don’t want to overcook it, because let’s face it: no one likes a tough pork chop. However, you also don’t want to undercook it and risk getting sick. That’s why it’s important to know at what temperatures trichinosis and salmonella are killed. With pork, it’s best (and safest) prepared with the center registering 145 degrees and chicken at 165 degrees. You can eliminate the guessing of “Is this fully cooked?” with a handy, thin tip digital pocket thermometer. Yes, these look very similar to the ones you may have in your bathroom cabinet. However, the biggest difference in digital thermometer for cooking is its special thin tip designed for puncturing meat and gauging higher heat. 32
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4 Portable Induction Cooktop If you’ve ever lived in a home with a double oven, you can attest to the convenience of all the desserts and dinners you can make in those ovens simultaneously. When the holidays come around, you can pack them with casseroles, side dishes, and cakes. It’s so wonderful having all that extra space to cook food and have it all prepared in one setting. Well, as nice as it can be to have double ovens, a majority of cooking actually happens on the stove top. More times than not, you’ll have all four burners going full blast and still need to finish cooking one dish to start another. A wonderful solution we have at our luxury today is found in having a portable induction cooktop, which can be a game-changer for preparing holiday meals, outdoor gatherings, or when you just need an extra burner. Portable
A WONDERFUL SOLUTION WE HAVE AT OUR LUXURY TODAY IS FOUND IN HAVING A PORTABLE INDUCTION COOKTOP — WHICH CAN BE A GAME-CHANGER FOR PREPARING HOLIDAY MEALS, OUTDOOR GATHERINGS, OR WHEN YOU JUST NEED AN EXTRA BURNER.
induction cooktops are great for cooking with kids, too, as once the pot is removed from the burner, the heat is eliminated and immediately begins to cool. Another thing that can make them safer for cooking is that you can use the portable cooktop on a different counter or island to keep them away from the stove top. Portable induction cooktops also take less energy than traditional stoves, and they and cook food much faster. WILLIAMSONCOLIVING.COM
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5 Immersion Circulator Probably the most non-traditional from all the others on this list, the immersion circulator can really change the way you cook and store food. Immersion circulators are temperature-controlled water baths that allow you to cook vacuum-sealed foods low and slow. An immersion circulator develops flavor and texture to the food over a period of time, using just the right amount of heat to bring out the best flavors of the food.
AN IMMERSION CIRCULATOR DEVELOPS FLAVOR AND TEXTURE TO THE FOOD OVER A PERIOD OF TIME, USING JUST THE RIGHT AMOUNT OF HEAT TO BRING OUT THE BEST FLAVORS OF THE FOOD. An immersion circulator cooks your food to the exact right temperature and holds it there, never overcooking it unlike a crock pot that can burn or overcook your food. If you like to do large meal preparation or buy meat in bulk to freeze, an immersion circulator could be a great addition to your
KATHRYN YORK is the co-owner of Lime & Loaf and Smith
kitchen. Freezing your favorite meats and seafoods can help save you
& York Co. in downtown Columbia, Tennessee. Learn more
money and being able to put the frozen foods directly into the water can
about Lime & Loaf by visiting limeandloaf.com and Smith &
help save you time. n
York Co. at smithandyork.co.
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RENDERING COURTESY OF WILLIAMSON MEDICAL CENTER
WILLIAMSON MEDICAL CENTER MORE FOR
You - CLOSE TO Home
By Phil Mazzuca, CEO, Williamson Medical Center
PHOTO BY KRISTIE LLOYD PHOTOGRAPHY
We live in the greatest county in the state of Tennessee and one of the greatest counties in the country. That’s a claim that many make about where they live, but they can’t back it up as we can in Williamson County. The explosive growth of our community is evidence of the area’s appeal. And, with the population here expected to more than double by 2040, Williamson County will continue to be attractive to those who value our area and lifestyle. That’s what excited me when the opportunity to be considered for the position of CEO for Williamson Medical Center arose in late 2020. After nearly 40 years in healthcare management and working with hospitals across the country, I was thrilled at the prospect of serving the community
WE ARE ONE OF ONLY THREE HOSPITALS IN TENNESSEE TO HAVE A 5-STAR RATING FROM THE CENTERS FOR MEDICARE AND MEDICAID SERVICES
my wife and I call home. Upon assuming the role of CEO in March of 2021, one of the first priorities that quickly emerged was the need to address the physical plant of the hospital. Our assessment was that our most critical asset — our people — was unrivaled. We are one of only three hospitals in Tennessee and one of 455 in the U.S. to have a 5-star rating from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and are annually recognized for the quality of our staff and services and high patient satisfaction.
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RENDERING COURTESY OF WILLIAMSON MEDICAL CENTER
However, while our current facility was state-of-the-art when it opened in 1986 and some areas have been expanded and updated over the past 36 years, the hospital needs significant renovation and expansion to meet not only the current needs and expectations of our community but to also be prepared to meet the demands of future growth. With the support of our dedicated Board of Trustees, we worked with nationally recognized consultants to assess our community’s current and future healthcare needs and based on that information began to develop a plan to continue our mission to meet the healthcare needs of the communities we serve. We worked with a team of architects, with input from our medical
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Adding 3 additional floors and a 6-story north wing to the West
staff, employees, and planners, to create a vision for the future.
Tower to include a new 22-bed observation unit, a 35-bed Critical
The result was a transformational plan to ensure Williamson
Care/Stepdown Unit to replace two 10-bed units in the main
Medical Center continues to be the high-quality high-satisfaction
hospital tower, and two 36-bed medical/surgical units with more
healthcare provider for years to come and a hospital that will
spacious and comfortable rooms for patients and their families,
continue to be a crown jewel of the Middle Tennessee region. Thank you to our County Commission for supporting $150 million of bond financing, and to the Williamson Medical Center Foundation for agreeing to raise at least $25 million, as we embark on the most comprehensive capital project in our history. During the next two years, the community will see a phased project that will ultimately increase our capacity, expand our service lines, improve patient access, safety and comfort as we expand and update our hospital. Major improvements include: ■
Expanding capacity in our Adult ER from 28 beds to 43, along with the addition of an 8-bed secure behavioral health pod,
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And finally, after moving into the West Tower, renovating and enlarging the patient rooms in the Main Tower, over a 16-month phased period of time.
This project supports Williamson Medical Center’s commitment to our community to be the preferred provider for healthcare services in Williamson County and the acute care center of excellence for the communities we serve while providing value as a low-cost, high-quality, and high-satisfaction healthcare provider. Our plan will offer the next level of exceptional healthcare by strengthening the hospital’s ability to provide sophisticated, comprehensive, highquality healthcare for Williamson County and surrounding Middle Tennessee communities for years to come. Again, we are grateful that the Williamson Medical Center Foundation
PHOTO COURTESY OF NEAL MILES, WILLIAMSON MEDICAL CENTER
has stepped up to help us fill the project funding gap by raising more than $25 million. We’ve enlisted the help of Caroline Bryan and Vicki McNamara as co-chairs of the campaign, along with Luke Bryan as honorary co-chair, to further support this project. Thanks to their involvement, we are off to a great start in meeting our goal.
Although we are making progress toward our goals, we are also requesting support from everyone in the community. To learn more about the project and how to get involved, please visit wmcfoundation.org. n
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Expanding Obstetrics from 28 beds to 34, which includes creating separate rooms for labor/delivery/recovery and postpartum patients, adding an additional operating room for C-sections and reconfiguring the NICU to include 9 private bays on a distinct wing,
PHIL MAZZUCA is the CEO of Williamson Medical Center. A resident of Franklin
for the last 14 years, Mazzuca has nearly 40 years of healthcare management experience.
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Women have made great strides in society over the years making the rank of CEOs at Fortune 500 Companies, entrepreneurs, doctors, lawyers, with a list of endless opportunities. However, one of the most significant jobs carries the title of mom. With Mother’s Day on May 8 this year, there is a group of moms that deserve an extra shout-out, the single moms. Being a mom is a very rewarding and challenging job, but being a single mom takes extra courage, stamina, and strength. Brandi Wilson, a Certified Personal and Executive Coach, author, and speaker shares her story and how she pivoted in life to forge a new successful life professionally and as a single mom.
LOVEBRANDIWILSON
I owe all my single friends an apology. Let me explain … This was probably a better post for yesterday, but here we go. I am loved by a lot of people and I’m so grateful for the love and support. However I’m surprised when people ask my friends something to the effect of “She’s still single? Doesn’t she want to be happy?” As if living life as a single woman and being happy can’t coexist.
FOCUS ON THE
GOOD
LEARNING HOW TO DREAM AGAIN By Elizabeth Shane
To be honest, that’s a thought I probably expressed when I was married. And let’s not forget I wasn’t in a “healthy” marriage, I repeatedly faced trust being broken and I was lonelier married than I am single. Yet still I believed the misconception you must be in a relationship to be what society deems as “happy”. Yes, I’m happy. Next month I will have been single for 5 years and I’m truly happy. I’m okay. I’m in a beautiful place. And I’m cheering on all my single friends who are also happy. I’m sorry I didn’t realize what a gift it is to enjoy your own company and to live a complete and full life as a single person. Here’s to your happiness regardless of relationship status. Love, Brandi INSTAGRAM POST BY BRANDI WILSON — FEBRUARY 15, 2022
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“The response to my Instagram post was truly positive,” exclaimed Wilson. “Having been a married woman, I would have never guessed the fulfillment I would have as a single person here five years after my divorce. I learned to enjoy myself and believe that it's not too late because you know I'll be 50 in a PHOTO BY FIRST LOVE PHOTO AND FILM
couple of years. Life looks different now than what I thought it would look like in my mid-40s, but at the same time, I wouldn't change it. I know a couple of my kids feel that way regardless of everything that happened.” There is a healing process for single moms and it is challenging, regardless of whether the singleness was a result of death, divorce, or some other circumstances. As Wilson explained, “I really enjoyed being a wife and I love being a mom. I married my college sweetheart and when that marriage ended after 20 years I was really lost. I think I knew I was damaged at the core, but I wasn't destroyed. I asked myself, ‘What can I do to take care of my heart?’ I've done a lot of hard work through therapy and learned that my past did not define my future.”
SOMETIMES WOMEN, ESPECIALLY WITH KIDS, LOSE THEIR VOICE. I KNEW THE VOICE OF EVERYONE IN MY HOME REALLY WELL AND WHEN IT CAME TO MYSELF, I WAS LAST. I KNEW NOTHING AROUND ME FELT GOOD, AMID THE DIVORCE, BUT I BELIEVE GOD IS GOOD AND WANTED TO FIND THE GOOD AROUND ME.
Through the healing process of her divorce, Wilson found she wanted to help other single moms who were experiencing what she had herself. She also wanted her kids to see someone who was able to take care of herself, grieve and deal with the
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loss that had happened in her life but was also able to take time to focus on herself, and take care of the parts that had been hurt and broken. “Sometimes women, especially with kids, lose their voice. I knew the voice of everyone in my home
THE RESPONSE TO MY INSTAGRAM POST WAS TRULY POSITIVE.
really well and when it came to myself, I was last. I knew nothing around me felt good, amid the divorce, but I believe God is good and wanted to find the good around me,” said Wilson. To help find the good in life, Wilson took a little paper journal that was on her shelf and wrote on the front, focus on the good, and every day before she went to bed was intentional to find five good things from the day. “I believe that when we're going through something difficult, perspective is vital. There were days when I didn't want to get out of bed and depression was something I dealt with. Anxiety was also a struggle, but I am very strong in my faith and continued to believe God is so good,” stated Wilson. “I wanted to see the goodness around me and this became my intentional way to shift my perspective and deal with the bad.” WILLIAMSONCOLIVING.COM
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Wilson had been involved at Cross Point for many years and that naturally gave her a platform to reach single moms. “I had never envisioned my life at all as a single parent, but whoever does? During the pandemic shutdown, I started to embrace being a single mom and it became easier to understand the definition of our family,” Wilson said. “I learned how to dream again and then thought, ‘How can I help impact other people to live a life of freedom and confidence?’ Because I remember feeling so isolated, lonely, and lost I wanted to help others.” As Wilson began talking with other women who were going through the trauma of divorce, she realized she could take her suffering and help others develop emotional and mental health to survive, by living a life of freedom and confidence, since her own journey had taught her those very skills. Wilson completed her vision and is now a Certified Personal and Executive Coach with The Coaching and Positive Psychology (CaPP) Institute as well as a Certified Coach through Blessing Ranch. She works as a personal coach for individuals, a nonprofit called Leading and Loving It, and with Blessing Ranch Ministries, an organization in Florida, to help people live a life unhindered as they find strength, freedom, and joy.
TO HELP FIND THE GOOD IN LIFE, WILSON TOOK A LITTLE PAPER JOURNAL THAT WAS ON HER SHELF AND WROTE ON THE FRONT, FOCUS ON THE GOOD, AND EVERY DAY BEFORE SHE WENT TO BED WAS INTENTIONAL TO FIND FIVE GOOD THINGS FROM THE DAY.
When Wilson divorced, her kids were in elementary and middle school and she was figuring out what a career might look like someday. She thought, “What am I going to do to move forward and take care of myself financially.” One of the major changes she made to cope was to move and downsize. Many women do want to stay in the home where they raised their children, however, Wilson did not and sold her house. The transition to a new home was a fresh start, one where she made all the rules and her new home would be known as the house of truth, a
While Wilson continues to work with her individual clients, she also
place Wilson and her kids could deal with anything as long as
teaches a course on divorce, is developing new online courses, is writing
they told the truth. “This was our house of truth, and this was
a book that releases in August 2023, and pursues further training for
how we started over,” Wilson said.
her practice. “I just finished teaching a course, Unbroken: Survive Your
Now as a single mom, Wilson focused in on herself and her three sons, and together they created ‘Us 4 No More.’ “My kids had started to understand this was how we have redefined family as a unit of four without feeling like something was missing since we didn’t have a traditional family anymore. I wanted something to signify the growth during such a transitional and hard time in
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Divorce and Come Out Stronger, and am developing a couple of video courses that will begin releasing this fall. For myself, I want to continue to grow in my field and receive additional training on trauma and how to have more positive psychology for my practice,” said Wilson. “I hope to invite other women into their own truth so they too can live a life they love living because you never know what life is going to bring.”
my life so my oldest son and I are getting ‘Us 4 No More’ tattoos.
Follow Brandi Wilson on Instagram at @lovebrandiwilson or visit
It’s change we can embrace,” explained Wilson.
lovebrandiwilson.com for additional information on her work. n
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— DELICIOUS HAPPINESS —
Comforting Carrot Cake By Kathy Fox As we look forward to the warmer weather of summer and the beautiful colors it brings, many people enjoy planting vegetable gardens and reaping the fruits of their labor. One very abundant root vegetable in gardens is the brightly colored orange carrot. Carrots are versatile and delicious and can be used in so many ways, whether to complement a delicious steak dinner, spruce up a veggie tray, or add sweetness to a delectable carrot cake dessert. No one actually knows where the modern-day carrot cake smothered in cream cheese frosting originated, but it does appear to have evolved from the carrot pudding of the middle ages, when sugar was hard to come by in Britain and carrots were used as sugar substitutes. The modern-day carrot cake, according to food historians, most likely descended from Medieval carrot puddings enjoyed by Europeans for centuries. Recipes for carrot pudding can be found as far back as the 10th century in Arabian cookbooks, but there were no references to carrot cake until the 19th century. For years now this sweet and moist spiced cake, loaded with carrots, and covered in a cream cheese frosting has been served at parties, weddings and family events. In fact, George Washington even served carrot cake at many of his parties. This wonderful carrot cake recipe originated at the cafe at the 16th century Crathes Castle in Scotland and is probably the best carrot cake you will ever have. This one-bowl carrot cake recipe is so easy to make — you will be delighted by your scratch-made marvel. Whether you are already a fan of carrot cake or prefer a chocolate decadent dessert, give this incredibly special recipe a try, as the result is a very comforting and tasty dessert. Who knows, this carrot cake might just become your new favorite dessert!
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Comforting Carrot Cake Ingredients 2 cups grated carrots 2 large eggs 1 cup granulated sugar ¾ cup canola oil 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 ¼ cup all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking soda 2 teaspoons cinnamon 2 teaspoons Schwartz mixed spice* Pinch of salt * To experience the exact flavor of this recipe, we recommend buying the Schwartz mixed spice.
PREP:
30 minutes
COOK:
45 minutes
ADDITIONAL: TOTAL:
2 hours
SERVINGS: YIELD:
45 minutes
8
One 9-inch round cake.
Double the recipe for a two-layer cake; Triple the recipe for a three-layer cake.
Instructions Preheat oven to 350°. Mix all ingredients
together in one bowl. Grease and flour 9" round pan, pour batter, and bake for 45
minutes or until done. Test the center with a toothpick and if it comes out clean the cake
is done. If not, continue to bake until cooked through. Do not over-bake. Let cool in pan
for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack and cool completely.
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TIP ❱❱ For an even richer taste, substitute dark brown sugar for the granulated sugar or use a combination of the two.
Cream Cheese Frosting 1 box powdered sugar, 16 ounces 1 package of cream cheese, 8 ounces 1 stick butter, softened 1 teaspoon vanilla
Mix all ingredients until smooth. Frost the cake once cooled completely.
TIP ❱❱ The original recipe does not have nuts, so if you are craving that nutty flavor and crunch, add chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter or frosting. If frosting is your thing, make it four layers and indulge in sweetness!
This recipe was contributed by Deb Smith and was given to her more than 20 years ago when her family visited the Crathes Castle in Scotland.
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Positive
Parenting during the past few years has certainly been a challenge. Uncertain school schedules, alternative learning, home-based work life, and a whole lot of togetherness during COVID-19 have undoubtedly changed the dynamics of our homes in one way or another. The life and schedule we were used to suddenly changed
PARENTING
without a manual to tell us the itinerary or how the story unfolds. Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) is an approach developed by Karyn Purvis, Ph.D. and David Cross, Ph.D. from
By Michelle Houk
TCU Institute of Child Development. TBRI strategies encourage parents to Connect, Empower, and then Correct. These connecting
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principles help parents to focus on the child’s need for interactions
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through awareness and lively engagement.
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Connecting with your child includes engagement strategies that
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and allows for learning to happen. This strategy includes getting
help them develop a sense of trust with the parent, disarm fear, down to your child’s eye level when talking to them, having a soft
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tone, being aware of body language and facial expressions, and giving them your full attention. During this time, you are given the
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opportunity to really hear and listen to the needs of your child. Also, being mindful of what is in the environment that may be impacting
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their reaction, thinking about how you are presenting yourself to
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your child, and thinking about what history you are bringing to the situation when your child is not behaving in a way that you desire will help you manage your responses to the behavior.
The Correcting principles are both proactive and responsive on the part of the parent. Proactive correcting principles happen during calm times when your child is open to learning. Playfully engaging with your child to redirect if your child begins to exhibit undesirable behaviors can shift the outcome of an outburst in behavior to a nurturing, teachable moment. A responsive strategy allows you to explore what your child is saying through the behavior. What does your child need at that moment? Modeling and teaching desirable behaviors in calm times greatly reduces the need for correcting during dysregulated times! Connecting with your child and assuring their basic physical needs are met go a long way in helping a child feel successful
CONNECTING WITH YOUR CHILD AND ASSURING THEIR BASIC PHYSICAL NEEDS ARE MET GO A LONG WAY IN HELPING A CHILD FEEL SUCCESSFUL IN THEIR DAILY ACTIVITIES.
in their daily activities. This allows them to go on and function at their best so that they can have their best possible outcome. And when it comes to positive parenting, give yourself some grace! Take a few deep breaths. Connect with others around you. Practice good self-care. Remember positive parenting leads to positive relationships you have with your children, and
Empowering strategies include thinking about if your child has an optimal situation for managing their situation. Have they had something
it teaches them how to be in a healthy, positive relationship with others. n
to eat or drink in the past two hours? Is your child overstimulated? Is your child tired? Do they have to go to the bathroom? Some children do not recognize the signals their body gives them to meet their basic needs. Your child may need help monitoring and recognizing these signals until they are developmentally able to recognize them on their own. We all function better when our basic needs are optimally met! Behavior is easier for a child to control when they are not focusing on the internal dysregulation of unmet needs.
MICHELLE HOUK, LCSW, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in private practice in Franklin, Tennessee. She is a trained TBRI practitioner working with children and families. For more information, contact her at mhoukcounseling@gmail.com.
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KITCHEN TOWELS AS
Placemats
By Amy Montgomery
PHOTOS BY ALLISON ELEFANTE
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It just seems right that if you can get double use out of something in life, you should! A fresh kitchen towel is one of those things that can certainly take on a second job. What is that second job? A very practical placemat. I am a creature of habit, especially in the kitchen. I always have a large bowl of "hand towels" rolled up next to the sink, for drying hands only. I keep a very large stack of freshly laundered dish towels in the drawer next to the
AFTER LOOKING THROUGH WHAT ITEMS I HAD ON HAND, I DECIDED THE KITCHEN HAND TOWELS WERE JUST THE RIGHT SHADE OF BLUE AND WOULD MAKE GREAT PLACEMATS. FOLDED IN THIRDS AND WITH A QUICK HIT OF THE IRON, THEY WERE READY TO USE. THOSE TOWELS WERE THE PLACEMATS I NEVER KNEW I HAD.
sink, for the messy cleanups. The colorful porch dinner table was set with a mix of melamine outdoor dining dishes and a mish-mosh of different salad plates, including vintage blue danube, gifted to me by my mother. With a strong presence of various shades of blue, I set out to pull this summer table together, using items that I already owned. This is where the hand towels come into play. After looking through what items I had on hand, I decided the kitchen hand towels were just the right shade of blue and would make great placemats. Folded in thirds and with a quick hit of the iron, they were ready to use. Those towels were the placemats I never knew I had. WILLIAMSONCOLIVING.COM
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The black and white toile dishes were my first foray into towels having a
Tea towels should be cared for a little differently.
double use. I was styling a table for a client newsletter, and the taupe and
Washing them separately, away from dish towels
white kitchen hand towels fit the look of the antique farm table so well.
works best. The lightweight linen content makes
Looking at the photo, I realize that some things are timeless — classic black
them the perfect candidate for air-drying. After
and white dishes, farmhouse tables, vintage jars, and the simplicity of white
taking them out of the washer, simply lay them
flowers. The fresh taupe and white hand towels make the perfect backdrop for
across the counter and they air-dry very quickly.
what is a truly classic table.
Let’s also explore the term tea towels. The term dates back to 18th century England when they were used to insulate teapots at tea ceremonies, and were used along with other fine linens as part of decorative place settings. Being lightweight, linen tea towels are perfect when placed over a basket of biscuits and scones to keep them from going stale. So, between patting dry fruits and vegetables, drying crystal, and just simply looking pretty in your kitchen, you can now give your kitchen towels another use as placemats. The next time you stop in my shop, take a look at all the different styles of towels; ruffled, embroidered, printed, linen, flour sack, heavy cotton, and most certainly decorative and beautiful! n
While we are talking about kitchen towels, let's brush up on terms. The workhorse of a kitchen is the dish towel. Usually made of terrycloth or thick absorbent cotton, they are perfect for drying dishes, and absorbing any water left on the counter after the task of washing. My grandmother always called her kitchen towels tea towels. At first look, a tea towel may resemble the dishtowels in your kitchen. It would seem that the two items should be interchangeable, but a tea towel is usually made of linen and is designed to be more of a decorative item in your kitchen. It's usually hanging on a hook, a drawer handle, or the dishwasher handle, looking stylish and pretty, and is perfect for a rinse of hands, and a quick pat dry. Tea towels are lightweight and can be used to dry delicate crystal, fruits, and vegetables, and are great for lining a basket. 50
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AMY MONTGOMERY has 25 years of design experience and owns Amy Montgomery Home located in Columbia, Tennessee. She is a lifestylist focused on home, food, and flowers and delights in working one-on-one with customers. Visit amymontgomeryhome.com for additional information and follow on social media at @amymontgomeryhome.
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