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Summer 2014

33 Special Features 25 New Funky Junk Adventures Await 49 Southern Women: Steele Sisters 53 Southern Women: Paris Luna 56 Where in the South is THAT? 78 Making Back to School Easier for Y’all

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Entertaining 46 Best Southern Stories on Film 62 Showing School Spirit with Fashion 73 School’s Out Party Ideas

Recipes 20 Canning Summer Veggies 64 Summer Gathering Approved Fruit Trifle 67 Summer Salads & Sweets 82 Enjoy Sweet Summertime

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67 73 Spring Decor 15 No Excuse Container Gardens

Crafts/ How To 22 Follow These Tips for Junkin’ Gold 33 Funky Junk Welcome Mat 36. New Life to Old Bookends 40 Shabby Desk Makeover 43 YoYo Décor

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Kelly Caldwell

Leisel Caldwell

Lavoy Caldwell

Lynn Amason

Editor of Southern Holiday Life

General Manager of Southern Holiday Life

Advertising Sales Southern Holiday Life

Creator of all things shabby at Not Too Shabby

Krayl Funch

Kelly Genn

Les Hamilton

Alicia Hernandez

Author & Blogger at An Appealing Plan

Author & Blogger at It’s the Little Things

Canning Queen

Writer at Southern Holiday Life

Stacie Money

Andy Petty

Becky Saggus

Deanna Talwalker

Owner of Fringe Consignment Boutique

Movie Guru & Photographer

Home Cook

Party Stylist at Mirabelle Creations

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We have a wonderful group of contributors for this years Southern Holiday Life magazine. Be sure to like them on Facebook and show them some Southern LOVE!!!

Noah Bryant Ballard

Tracy Carpenter

Summer Intern at Southern Holiday Life

Baker & Owner of TracyCakes

Michelle Klima

Stacey Little

Owner of Resurrect Antiques

Cookbook Author & Southern Food Blogger at Southern Bite

Carmody Tisdale

Laura Velazquez

Author & Blogger at Paper & Fox

Photographer LaPhotography

Get Involved with Southern Holiday Life They say it takes a village to raise a child, well the same is true for publishing a magazine.

We are constantly looking for new writers, photographers, crafters, decorators, cooks. If you are interested in joining this fun Southern owned and Southern made magazine, let us here from you!

We are currently taking submissions for Southern Holiday Life Christmas issue that will hit the streets November 1.

To be considered: 1. You must live in or be from the South…

(You like sugar in your ice tea, say Y’all and have a college from your state in the SEC. If you don’t know what the SEC is, stop reading now…)

2. You are creative and can tell a good story.

3. You have a craft or skill that you want to share with the world. (It is our Christmas issue, which is the Season of Giving!)

If we haven’t made you run for the hills, please send us a sample of your work with pictures (knowing your way around a camera gets you bonus points) to southernholidaylife@gmail.com.

We are looking for the unique Southern craft, story or recipe. If you think you have what it takes, send us a sample… We will respond to every submission, (because mama raised us right!). If you are interested in joining this crazy family of ours, please submit your samples by August 15.

Good Luck Y’all!

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On the Cover Robin Steele Thornhill is our cover model. You can read more about her and her sister Lori Sewell inside this issue!

General Manager LEISEL CALDWELL info@lakewedoweelife.com

Editor KELLY CALDWELL news@lakewedoweelife.com

Advertising Manager LAVOY CALDWELL ads@lakewedoweelife.com

Advertising Sales Alicia Hernandez

Intern Noah Bryant Ballard

Southern Holiday Life

877.959.LAKE (5253) 104 West Broad St. Wedowee, AL

www.SouthernHolidayLife.com

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Southern Holiday Life magazine is published annually by parent company Neighborhood Publishing which also produces Lake Wedowee Life and Friday Night Life magazines.

All content in this publication is protected by United States copyright law and may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, displayed, or otherwise published without the prior written permission of Neighborhood Publishing. Š 2008-2014 Neighborhood Publishing

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The Wonderful Powers of Social Media One of my favorite duties of being a magazine editor is deciding what the cover will be for each issue.

This issue of “Southern Holiday Life” was easy thanks to our sister publication “Lake Wedowee Life.”

Last summer we launched a model search but due to lack of participation we didn’t crown a winner, however, we had one woman enter that blew me away. Robin Steele-Thornhill submitted pictures saying it was on her bucket list to be a model. Well, I knew we would make it a reality and my imagination went into overdrive. You see Robin embodies everything vintage, and I knew we had to have something special to really make it memorable. I saw an image on Pinterest that served as inspiration and immediately called Laura Velazquez with LaPhotography.

It was a 1950s swimsuit look with a wooden boat. We had all of the ingredients for magic to happen with one exception… A vintage boat. So I did the only thing I could think to do. I asked my friends on Facebook. I got a couple of messages including one from Matt Headrick with Great Lake and Lands dock company.

Well, it’s like the old telephone game we played as kids, and two weeks later as I am coming back from another photo shoot, my phone rings. Although he doesn’t have a Facebook account or believe in social media at all, Jim Keet heard about me needing a wooden boat and just happened to have a fully restored 1958 Lyman on Lake Wedowee. As they say, the rest is history and while we all know the negatives of social media, this was one time it came through for me in the most satisfying of ways. The photo shoot produced so many fantastic images that we couldn’t let Robin just be on the cover of one magazine. We hope you enjoy it as much as we did!

Enjoy Life!

Kelly Caldwell

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Container Gardens

Holiday Decor Story & Photos

by Krayl Funch

“He who plants a garden, plants happiness.� ~ Chinese Proverb "Nothing is more the child of art than a garden." - Sir Walter Scott There are literally thousands of quotes on gardening and more arriving daily. Every nation, culture and generation has its perspective on the importance of gardening, the importance of getting your hands dirty in the soil and the benefits of surrounding ourselves with nature. But what are we to do if our soil or locations do not lend itself to creation of a vast garden or even a few vegetable beds for that matter?

This my friend, is the time when we take to one of my favorite ways to garden, container gardening. Container gardening is simply growing plants with a confined moveable container.

Most refer to them as pots but really any vessel may become a container garden. This style of gardening is ideal for entranceways, patios, front walks, balconies, pool areas, tabletops‌etc..

Any place you would like to add plant life.

A major benefit of container gardening is that you are able to control the soil conditions, which in turn allows you to grow plants you would otherwise may not be able to grow in the ground. Of course sunlight and temperature must be taken into consideration when combining your particular plant material, but you can control moisture, drainage and nutrients.

Aesthically speaking, container selection is priority number one, followed by plant color, texture and height. Select your container style based on the design of the home or space it will 16 Southern Holiday Life

be placed. For example a modern container may look out of place in on a Victorian porch, as would a highly ornate urn on a contemporary pool deck. Once the style has been decided, consider size in relation to the space and type of plant material you plan to use should be considered, select the

largest vessel possible for your needs, this will reduce the amount of watering and also allow the plants to grow to fill the container.

Plant selection is the fun part of the process and where you can really let your creativity shine.

Mix and match heights, colors

and textures to create your seasonal master piece, Loose arrangements that complement the overall keeping in mind to select plants that in general have home style and garden the same light and moisture needs will have the best Draping or trailing plants for the edges success.

CONTEMPORARY / MODERN DESIGN: Just as with the container design the plant mateFrequently paired with bold or understated rial can have a style associated with it, traditional, plants modern, beach or urban, again consider where this Simplicity and clean lines container will live and what feel you are trying to Flowers may be included but usually foliage is achieve. Here are a few items to consider when sethe main design element lecting plant material: What every your style is container gardening adds style to your entranceway or space, hours of TRADITIONAL / FORMAL DESIGN enjoyment getting your hands dirty and the ability Classic lines and symmetry to change your plants with the season or your mood.

Elegant, simple and tasteful Additional care and time are necessary to mainKrayl Funch is on a mission to make the world a tain beautiful celebration. She is an Entertaining & LifeINFORMAL DESIGN: style Expert. Along with her private client services Plants selected for their beauty rather than folshe also shares stories and solutions on her blog lowing any rigid design guidelines www.AnAppealingPlan.com

Connect with us!

Smith Farms

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Cannni g

Summer Veggies

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Recipes by Becky Saggus & Les Hamilton

Hot Pepper Jelly Ingredients 2/3 cup green hot peppers (I use seeds also) 1 bell pepper 1 1/2 cup vinegar 6 cups sugar 1 bottle Certo (pectin) 1 teaspoon food coloring (red or green) Chop peppers and put in blender with vinegar; add sugar and mix well. Bring mixture to a rolling boil for one minute. Strain and return to stove and bring to a boil for five minutes. Remove from heat and immediately add Certo and food coloring. Put into six 1/2 pin jars and seal.

Tips: My family likes the pepper jelly extra hot so I reserve some of the peppers from straining and add to the jelly before sealing.

If the jelly does not seal on its own, put the jars in boiling water for 10 minutes making sure water covers the top of the jars. Let cool and check seal after 24 hours. Lid shouldn’t flex up and down once sealed.

Also if you are handling hot peppers, be sure to wear gloves! It will prevent all matters of discomfort for you, I promise!!!

Pickled Okra Ingredients 2 pints small okra 1/4 water 2 teaspoon dill seed 2 pods hot pepper 1 cup vinegar 2 tablespoons salt 4 garlic cloves Boil jars 15 minutes. Bring vinegar, water and salt to boil. Pack okra in pint jars and pour vinegar solution over top. Seal in water canner.

Tips: When boiling jars, place a clean dish towel in bottom of pot. You don’t want the jars touching the bottom of the pan because they may break!

After filling the jars be sure to wipe the rims clean before screwing on the lids.

You will want to put the full jars back in boiling water for 15 minutes. Once they are cooling down, you should hear a popping sound as the jars seal.

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Follow These Tips for Junkin’ Gold Oh, the hunt! The thrill can be a downright high for me on any given day. Little treasures are always out there just waiting to be found, and the savviest of junkers just needs to know how to find them.

After 20 years searching for all things rusty, crusty and old, I’ve learned a few tricks of the trade. These tidbits should help you navigate your own junking adventures.

First, be an early bird! You’ll have first dibs on the entire sale, so this could be your deal of the day. However, don't bargain with sellers too much. If you want rockbottom prices, shop later towards the end of any particular sale.

Funky Junk Tips

By Michelle Klima Next, be sure to always look both high and low in antique stores and shows. Vendors are paying for space, and we want to make the most of every dollar. So, that little treasure you’re looking for might be stacked just out of plain sight.

Further, when vendors are unloading at an antique sale, always check out what hasn’t yet made it off the truck. Sometimes your best find is still waiting to be unloaded. You can also do this at yard sales by asking if there are any old barns/sheds on the property.

Moving on, I love to stop in small towns while travelling, especially the old mill towns that dot our part of the country. Oftentimes you’ll find a little junk store with some of the best finds at very low prices.

Finally, the most important tidbit I can offer is probably the simplest – if you love it, buy it. I’ve seen it a million times, as people think too long and come back to get the one thing that they loved only to find out that it has already been sold.

However, this leads me to what I call my “junking laws.” Every business or industry has ethical standards, and junking is no different.

Above all else, you must know how to talk to dealers about merchandise and negotiate a better price. Don’t degrade or pick apart someone's stuff no matter its condition.

Moreover, never just flatly tell someone what you will pay for their merchandise. Rather, simply ask the person for their best price.

As the old saying goes, you get more with "sugar" than you do "salt,” and successful junkers know how to play that game.

Finally, remember that the people in the antique business are some of the best you’ll ever meet. If you abide by

these simple “junking laws,” you’ll be able to find the best treasures at the best prices and probably make a new friend or two along the way.

Town of Hogansville

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Story and Photos by Alicia Hernandez Southern Holiday Life 25

it our new home. With this new adventure, came more space providing us with the opportunity to open a store that follows and promotes our Funky Junk Trail Campaign. We are thrilled and have worked hard over the last month creating a sweet little shop that begins our Trail! Much thanks goes out to our vendors, volunteers and valuable supporters from the community that have helped us make this vision a reality. We offer custom-made furniture, lake home and home & porch décor, jewelry, framed photography, antique furniture, home-made and all-natural jams and jellies, rugs, art, & and so much more. Please visit our Facebook page and become a fan of Southern Holiday Life Store & Decor. More importantly, come see us and begin the Funky Junk Trail here in Wedowee!

Southern Holiday Life Store & Décor 104 West Broad Street Wedowee, Alabama The Funky Junk Trail Starts Right Here in Wedowee, Alabama! Southern Holiday Life Magazine announces one of the newest additions to the Trail, by opening Southern Holiday Life Store & Décor. Because our magazine is growing by leaps and bounds, an opportunity presented itself for us to purchase, what has been told to us, the oldest house in Wedowee.

Circa 1875, the Britain House, is one of the most picturesque in Life the area and we are glad to call 26 Southernhouses Holiday

Scarlett’s Attic 300 Main Street Hogansville, GA Frankly my dear, this store is sure to please anyone traveling on the Funky Junk Trail. Here you will find Coca Cola paraphernalia, repurposed furniture, pottery, home & garden décor, and even a parachuting clown. Scarlett’s Attic has two stories for you to browse and treasure hunt for that special gift or special something you have been looking for while shopping on the trail. One of our favorite things we saw was a beautiful repurposed bench made from an antique headboard that would be perfect sitting on a front porch, in a family room, in a kid’s room, or nestled in someone’s study or home office. We assure you that you will not be disappointed in this store! So visit them in downtown Hogansville and make sure to visit and like them on Facebook.

It’s About Time Antiques & Uniques 117 Franklin Highway Newnan, GA It’s About Time is a lovely stop on the path between Franklin and Newnan. Right next door to the Feed Store, you will find this treasure hunter’s dream. Since their opening last fall, Stephanie has worked really hard to have a little bit of what everybody wants. You will find many interesting things that have been repurposed and recycled creating great pieces for you to decorate your home or garden. One of our favorite finds were the flowers made from metal. These were such a statement pieces that could decorate just about anyone’s front porch or flower bed. Other things we found that were jewels to the “Junker” were beautiful custom-made or restored furniture pieces, antiques, handmade burlap wreaths, baskets, iron pieces, old trunks, and so much more. Believe me when I say, this is a great little place for anyone on the Funky Junk Trail to find that hidden treasure they have been looking for to make their collection complete.

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The Best Little Warehouse 306 Main Street Hogansville, GA Funky Junk 3

Owned by the same owners of Born Again Antiques, this place is the place to go for custom-made furniture and supplies needed for the Funky Junk Tinkerer.

Right next door to Born Again Antiques, The Best Little Warehouse is filled with salvaged wood, table and chair legs, doors, metal pieces, churns, metal signs, and more. If your hobby is repurposing old things, this is the place to start your next project. If you are not a “do-it-yourself” kind of person, Allen will be sure to help you design and build for you the perfect piece of furniture needed to complete your home. They are on Facebook. So become a fan and visit their page for more photos and information.

Just for You Thrift Store 307 S. HWY 29 Hogansville, GA

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Located just off of Main Street on Highway 29 in Hogansville, Georgia, Just for You Thrift Store has the furniture you have been looking for to furnish your home, office, vacation home, or more. Open on Friday and Saturday from 11 am to 5 pm EST, you are sure to find the perfect piece at the perfect price. We found their wares to be in great condition and priced very reasonably. Here you will find antique furniture, home décor, and many pieces that are sure to satisfy the bargain hunter’s adventure. Don’t forget to ask them about their layaway program and scheduled auctions that are held at their other location.

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The Blue Train Book Store & Coffee Shop 200 East Main Street Hogansville, GA For those of you that still love to hold a real book and physically turn the pages, this is the place for you to shop. We found racks and racks of books in this store. One of our favorite finds was a Good Housekeeping Cookbook dated from the 1950s. You will be sure to find books of all genres and for all ages at this little book nook located in downtown Hogansville, Georgia.

Also, while you are there, don’t forget to check out the coffee roasted locally at the Hogansville Coffee Company. So when you need your next summer read, make sure you take the Funky Junk Trail down to Main Street, Hogansville and visit The Blue Train Book Store & Coffee Shop and be sure to visit their website at www.BlueTrainBooks.com and become a fan on Facebook!

William & Mary’s Antiques and Collectibles 200 East Main Street Hogansville, GA Sharing space with Blue Train Books in Hogansville, Georgia, you will find this sweet spot. As soon as you enter the front door, you feel as though you have stepped back in time. Here you will find many treasures that your grandmother used to use, decorate, and work with. We found antique furniture, treasures, baby buggies, serving pieces, purses, clothing, carnival glass, kitchen utensils, and so much more. However, what makes this spot on the Trail so special is what you find in the back of the store, a Sports collector’s dream. You will find signed baseballs, Atlanta Braves paraphernalia, jerseys, cards, art, pennants, etc. Believe me, if you are a sports collector or a collector of old stuff you are sure to be pleased. Visit them on Facebook and become a fan!

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Collectors on 54 8861 Highway 54 Sharpsburg, Georgia We are excited to welcome to the Trail, Collectors on 54! Not new by any means, only just revitalized to include the shops at Collector’s Corner and vendors from The Boneyard. We found that this store brings together beauty, inspiration, and design. Lori, the owner for over 10 years, is proud to offer the Funky Junk Trailblazer over 22,000 square feet filled with favorites such as Arthur Court, Brighton, Byers’ Carolers, Quoizel Lighting, Stephan Baby, Willow Tree, ladies’ accessories, antiques, repurposed furniture and home décor, candles, and so much more.

One could spend the day wondering through what has been described as a “designer’s dream and “a decorator’s delight.” Make sure that you visit their website, http://collectorscornerretail.com and become a fan on Facebook.

Circa Antiques 855 Senoia Road Tyrone, Georgia New to Tyrone, Circa Antiques brings an eclectic style of urban and country French décor that is sure to please the interior designer or homemaker. We found the store to be nothing but inviting, warm, and simply beautiful.

Lisa, the owner, offers furniture, art, decorating pieces, jewelry, ladies vintage fashion apparel, candles, designer lighting, and more. One of the favorites we found were occasional chairs that were upholstered with burlap, linens, and French prints. Their unique pieces are sure to bring anyone’s home a sense of elegance and class. Be sure to shop this Decorator’s Dream and visit their Facebook page for additional photos and become a fan.

1.Southern Holiday Life Store and Decor 104 West Broad Street Wedowee, AL 2. Two Guys and a Girl Attic to Antiques 3355 Highway 431 Roanoke, Ala. 3. Powder Box 40745 Highway 280 Sylacauga, Ala.

6. Scarlett’s Attic Antiques

300 E Main Street Hogansville, Ga. 7. William & Mary’s Antiques & Collectibles 200 East Main Street Hogansville, Ga. 8. Blue Train Books 200 Main Street Hogansville, Ga.

4. Resurrect Antiques 216 S. 8th Street Opelika, Ala.

9. Best Little Warehouse Antiques 304 E Main Street Hogansville, Ga.

5. Marketplace on Lafayette Square 100 Bull Street Lagrange , Ga.

10. Just for You Thrift Store 307 S. HWY 29 Hogansville, Ga.

11. Born Again Antiques 200 E Main Street Hogansville, Ga.

16. Brown’s Crossing Antique Market 1971 HWY 54 W Fayettville, Ga.

12. It’s About Time Antiques & Uniques 117 Franklin HWY Newnan, Ga.

17. Gypsy 26 Main Street Senoia, Ga.

13.Collectors on 54 8861 Highway 54 Sharpsburg, Ga.

18. High Cotton Antique Mall 18788 Main Street Woodbury, Ga.

14. Spoon Sisters 843 Senoia Road Tyrone, Ga.

19. The Nest 121 Bradley Street Carrollton, Ga.

15. Circa Antiques 855 Senoia Road Tyrone, Ga.

You can also visit our facebook page to learn more!

Facebook.com/funkyjunktrail

On Senoia Road amongst & between

Saturday September 6th 10am - 5pm

Sunday September 7th 10am - 2pm

Vendors & Vintage Trailers wanted for this special event.

Call Lynne at 770.487.0052 / or Leisel at 256.357.4557 or email: SpoonSisters@Yahoo.com

Welcome Mat Story & Photo by Kelly Genn

Nothing says "Welcome" like bright colors, especially in the summertime. Unfortunately, our old welcome mat, left behind by previous homeowners, was nothing of the sort.

It was faded, dirty and pretty sad looking, but I didn't really want to get an entirely new mat and this one had a nice design. All it needed was some love and color!

What You'll Need: Door Mat, White Spray Paint, Bright Acrylic Paints (can be for outdoors or not) Begin by prepping your mat for painting by hosing it down. Get all of the grime and debris you can off of it.

After it's dry, you're ready for the spray paint. You will probably need a few coats. This took the entire can and I still had some spots that were grayish due to the kind of material of this particular mat. It both worked in my favor and caused a bit more work you'll see in a minute.

After the white layer has dried you can go to town with your bright colors. Paint it as if you were filling in a coloring book, adding as many coats as needed. Here's where the grayish areas come in. The outer border turned out great in gray but I still had areas that shouldn't be gray. If this happens to you as well, just go over those spots with a small brush and some white acrylic paint.

If your mat is in a place that is not exposed to the elements, i.e. a carport, outdoor paint isn't a must have.

However, if it will be in a sunny, uncovered area, you may want to spend the extra few cents for the outdoor acrylics.

I'm loving our "new" mat and I think it's much more welcoming!

Paint colors used: Krylon Fusion spray paint – White in Satin finish Apple Barrel acrylic paint – Tropic Orange, Caribbean, Yellow Craft Smart acrylic paint – Apple Tart (mixed with Americana brand acrylic paint in Black Forest Green) Southern Holiday Life 21

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New Life to old Hi, I am Carmody of Paper & Fox, a DIY blog, full of crafty projects and clever ideas. I am a big upcycle and thrift store fan. I love when something as simple as paint and a little creativity can turn a tired piece of furniture into something really spectacular. I grew up and live

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open

On Senoia Road

amongst & between

Saturday, September 6th 10am - 5pm

=

Sunday, September 7th 10am - 2pm

Vendors & Vintage Trailers wanted for this special event.

Find us at Facebook.com/CircaVintageMarket

Call Lynne at 770.487.0052 or Leisel at 256.357.4557 or email: SpoonSisters@Yahoo.com

with my family in Charlotte, North Carolina. Charlotte supplies us with some pretty awesome thrift stores. My husband and I treat thrift store shopping as a competitive sport. I think that I knocked it out of the park with this little project.

My Funky Junk Craft project started with a trip to Goodwill, where I came across a lonely wood bookend in the shape of a shell. I love all things nautical and water related, so this guy jumped out at me. This poor bookend did not even have a mate. It was weathered and probably spent some time outside, but it had a great shell shape and was only $1.99.

I knew my bookend needed a friend, so I kept my eyes peeled for something to act as the other bookend.

I was lucky enough to find a metal seahorse hook at Value Village Thrift Store a week later. I am guessing that the seahorse was intended to be a coat or bag hook.

Anyways, it was now mine and I purchased it for a whopping $2.50.

My first step was to create a base for the seahorse hook. I used a one of my toddler’s wood building blocks and an L-bracket. If you run into my toddler, don’t tell him I took his block.

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Then, I spray-painted the sad shell bookend, block with L-bracket and metal seahorse a dark gray I chose Rust-Oleum Satin Granite spray-paint. The cost of the can of spray-paint was $3.60.

Once the paint was dry, I attached the seahorse to the base that I created with the block. There were two holes conveniently in the center of the seahorse. I used my drill to attach the seahorse to the wood block with screws.

Each bookend matched after being coated in dark gray paint, but I wanted a little more out of them. With copper craft paint that I had from a previous project, I painted the bottom of each bookend. My goal was to have the modern “dipped” look and a patina effect all in one. I think these two mismatched bookends make a great team. Currently, I have them in my office and like how they look against the blue walls. What do you think? This was an easy project that cost under $10 to create. Easy and cheap is a great combination… for Funky Junk Crafts.

I hope you enjoyed my Funky Junk Craft project as much as I did creating it. For more crafty projects and clever ideas, please visit me at PaperandFox.com.

Diann Cullinan

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Shabby Desk

Story and Photos By Lynn Amason

This little mid-century modern desk is a different from most of my redos, but I could see its potential the second I spotted it on Craigslist.

It had great bones and just needed a facelift. I had been searching for a small desk to put in the “college boys” room since he took most of the furniture with him last fall.

I decided on a neutral gray that would complement the color scheme I had started in his room. It would also blend with other areas of the house since I am always a threat to rearrange furniture.

I added some scrapbook paper to the inside of the drawers to freshen them up. It’s such an easy fix, just choose your paper and use “Mod Podge” to glue it down.

It serves as a desk for when the kids are home from college on the weekend and need to catch up on homework or study. Well, it’s there anyway….

It could also be a sweet makeup table with an added a mirror. With plenty of storage in the side drawers, it's versatile and could also be used as a mail drop/bill paying station where I keep my laptop.

For now it stay put as a study desk, but I may wake up one morning and it will be the target of another “Not Too Shabby” project getting a new color and new home!

Lynn Amason crafts all things shabby. You can find her on Facebook at facebook.com/NotTooShabby89

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Yo Yo

Adding Yo Yo Love to upcycle a handbag Your Mama is so fashionable that Gucci, Prada and Fendi call her on a daily basis to get insight into upcoming fashion trends.

Everyone needs a bag for the lake, beach, or farmer’s market this summer. So we decided to create one with a vintage flair using homemade yo-yo’s. Continuing with our “Do-it Yourself with Yo-Yo’s” crafts, we have decided to add some color to a brown burlap bag and a black and white chevron bag using yo-yo’s to make flowers.

Yo Yo Mama Story by Leisel Caldwell Materials Needed A hand bag (any shape, any color, any size) Paper/Pencil (for making circle pattern) or the Quick Yo-Yo Maker (large) Needle Scissors

Strong Thread Buttons Fabric for your flowers (any pattern, any color) Green Fabric for leaves (patterned is fine) Thick Green yarn for stems Glue Gun Following the instructions on the package, if using the Quick Yo-Yo Maker, or making your own, cut a circle. Using needle and thread, hem the edge of the circle so that you can pull your thread to gather the center of the circle together. Once you have done this, use your needle and thread to sew the center securing the yo-yo. Next, sew a button of your choice to decorate the center of the yo-yo making it look like a flower.

Next, using a thick green yarn, create stems for your flowers. We chose to braid our yarn, creating a thicker stem look.

You are now ready to make leaves!

Using the green fabric and scissors, cut any shape of leaf that you would like to use for your flowers. Once you have done this, you are ready to add your vintage flowers to your bag.

Arrange your flowers, stems, and leaves according to the design of your choice and simply sew or glue to attach them in place. Viola! You have a new hand bag for the summer!

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Best Southern Stories on Film If you were to Google a list of southern films, you would find some of the best films ever made and others you didn’t know existed. The South is full of wonders and stories, making for truly unforgettable movies that hit close to home. I think it's fitting to continue my films of the South review, so here are four titles perfect for the hot Summer months: Forrest Gump - It's hard to believe it's the 20th anniversary already, but director Robert Zemeckis's “Forrest Gump” has been in our hearts and home entertainment libraries ever since.

While Forrest is a world traveler, his roots are as southern as southern gets. From his early days of running around his home

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Entertainment

by Andy Petty town of Greenbow, Alabama, Forrest grew up in a time when America's minds and landscape were changing. Vietnam was be-

ginning, the hippie revolution was the majority and the civil rights movement was marching through small towns everywhere.

It was an exciting time, and Forrest managed to find himself in the middle of almost everything. The brilliance of writing a character that winds up participating in the biggest events spanning decades, falls on Alabama native Winston Groom. A swan song for the South, “Forrest Gump” is essential viewing for any and everyone. In celebration of its 20th Anniversary, Paramount Pictures will be rereleasing it in theaters this Fall.

Lightning Bug - Chances are you've never heard of this film, but I'm here to tell you how bril-

liant it is. A semi-autobiographical film of director Robert Green Hall's life growing up in rural Alabama, it's a story that speaks to everyone who has ever dreamed big. Much like the films "October Sky" or "Rudy," our underdog Green lives in a broken home with little opportunities in life. His love of horror movies and special effects make-up takes his mind off the real life horrors he has to live each day.

With every coming-of-age story, there are times that test the person you are and the person you want to become. Proving his monster movie effects are a true passion that could one day lead to Hollywood won't be easy, but Green is determined to prove to his small town that it's more than just a hobby. Just because you or your passion is different doesn't mean you give up.

Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood - Maybe it's the ensemble cast of kooky characters, the toetapping soundtrack, the perfect blending of comedy and drama or maybe all of that combined, but the Ya-Ya Sisterhood is something of pure fun. Sandra Bullock plays Siddalee, a famous New York City playwright from Louisiana. After a published interview quotes her saying something negative about her mother and childhood, her mom, played by the amazing Ellen Burstyn, begins a feud that only her lifelong girlfriends can fix. The girlfriends, known as The Ya-Ya's, kidnap Siddalee and takes her back to Lousiana where we learn why her childhood wasn't so perfect. Truly one of the best films of the past decade that speaks about family and friends and the life-long bond that can never be taken away when you fight for who you love.

Deliverance - This is either the best southern film ever, or the worst in your opinion. I could imagine the rivers of the South were void of any wayward travelers for a while after it was released, much like beaches after "Jaws" hit theatres. Growing up in the South and having family from the North Georgia Mountains, I'm not sure if this offended anyone back in the early 70's, but it has now become a bonafide American classic. A horror film can have many faces; there could be a masked killer, a zombie from the grave, a creature from another world, or even deranged backwoods moon shiners. For four guys from the city, taking a canoe trip down a country river turns in to a nightmare survival of the fittest.

While many have tried to recreate their own version of "Deliverance" since, nothing will ever compare.

Have a safe and fun summer! Oh, and happy viewing everyone :-) So did your favorite make the list? Join the discussion at facebook.com/southernholidaylife.

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For Life

Story By Kelly Caldwell Photos bySouthern LaPhotography Holiday Life 47 49

For sisters Lori Sewell and Robin Thornhill, the Girl Scouts of the United States of America provided more than just a chance to earn merit badges and sell boxes of cookies. The organization gave them lifelong friends and the belief that anything was possible.

"Our mom knew the importance of Girl Scouts and being in a rural area, she wanted us to have as much as we could," Thornhill said. "Girl Scouts was the vehicle that allowed us to explore and become the women we are today."

Founded in Savannah, Ga., in 1912 by Juliette Gordon Low, the Girl Scouts of the United States of America empowers girls from all walks of life and instills values such compassion, honesty, fairness, sisterhood and confidence.

"I can't remember a time growing up that I wasn't involved in Girl Scouts," Thornhill said. "I literally was born on the day of a scout meeting."

Lani Steele, Lori and Robin's mother, was only a Girl Scout herself for maybe a year growing up in Iowa. However, she valued what the organization represented and devoted nearly half her life to Girl Scouts.

"She was a scout leader for 20 or 30 years because she believed in it so much," Thornhill said.

While Lani strongly believed in the importance of Girl Scouts, some of the activities would force her out of her natural element.

"Our mom was very prim and proper," Thornhill said.

"She believed you weren't dressed unless you had your nails painted and were wearing earrings. So, you can imagine some of the camping trips and

other outdoor activities were not her cup of tea. But, she did them anyway because she wanted us to know that we could do anything the boys could do and didn't ever have to depend on a man for anything."

Robin's love of camping began with Girl Scouts and continues to this day. Her husband and she recently renovated a Volkswagen Westfalia camper.

Named "Scout," it is decorated with old Girl Scout and Boy Scout patches, uniforms and memorabilia.

"Scouting was such an important part of our lives that I wanted to honor that," she said.

Girl Scouts also gave Lori and Robin the confidence to be the business women they are today.

"My mom and Lori helped me with my Gold Award (the highest honor for a Girl Scout) project," Robin said. "It was a drama camp and was the first time that the three of us worked on something like that together.

"Fast forward several years, and we open the Ashland Theatre," Robin said. "We like to think that scouting gave us the skills to do what we do."

Lori and Robin's mom passed away last August, but just like the Girl Scouts she continues to be a guiding force in their lives.

"We are still learning little lessons from our mom," Robin said. "As we continue to grow as women and mothers, we realize the reasons behind the things she did and all we can say is 'Mom You Were Right.'"

Robin and Lori are owners of the Historic Ashland Theatre in downtown Ashland, Alabama.

52 Southern Holiday Life

Southern Rockin’ Mama Balances Career and Family Like most Southern musicians, Heather Russell's love affair with music began at an early age. Now lead singer for the group Paris Luna, she started in the choir at her hometown church.

"I think I started singing in church when I was like 5 years old," she said. "My mom, Celia, she was the pianist for the church, and I grew up singing right by her side.�

"She taught me piano. I really tried to learn from her, but I have always done it my own way. Everyone saw right out of the gate that I had a pretty voice, and there is nothing like that trial by fire process of singing in church!"

Strong Southern Women

By Kelly Caldwell In her early 20s, Russell was a successful pharmaceutical sales representative. However, that wasn't her passion.

"I was in Nashville in this com-

pany owned car and had Dave Matthews Band's bus on one side of me, another tour bus on the other and then one pulled into traffic behind me, it was like 'Smokey and the Bandit' and I was trapped. It was then that I called my husband, Kane, and said I want to go for it," Russell remembered. "My boss thought I was joking when I met with him. I had just landed a really big account and turned in my notice during the same meeting."

In the early days, the group was known as the Heather Russell Band, but a promoter from Johnson City, Tennessee suggested a change.

"We were opening for Rusted Root and this promoter told me that if I wanted any press from the show I had to change the name of the band," Russell said.

He gave her 15 minutes, so Russell did the only thing she could.

"I called my mama," she laughed.

"After she freaked out -- which didn't really help me at the time -- she told me a story from when I was like 8 years old."

Russell had just watched Lady and the Tramp before piano lessons and while her mother was trying to teach her Chekovski, Russell pushed

her away.

"I told her to give me a minute, I wanted to write my own song," Russell said. “I then went on to compose my own song using Chekovski chords with a chorus mentioning the moon over Paris.”

"She said she would never forget that moment because it was the first time that I had amazed her musically," Russell said. "I had used what she had taught me, but I made it completely my own."

After that conversation, Russell still didn't have a name for the band and only 10 minutes remained before the press arrived.

"I was sitting there eating a Luna bar and just looked at the wrapper," she said. "Then it hit me!

Paris Luna... I yelled at Kane in the next room, he liked it, I called the promoter and the rest is history.

"I remember walking in and seeing the promo poster for the first time thinking 'God, that's a good name.'"

Paris Luna was building a name for itself in Nashville in 2007, just after the release of the band's first album, "City Lights."

"We were touring all over, had a meeting with some Nashville bigwigs and then I found out I was pregnant," Russell said. "My mind was so centered on being famous back then and to be honest I was mad when I found out. It was God knowing that I never would have quit Paris Luna on my own to have a family."

Paris Luna toured up until the seventh month of Russell's pregnancy, and she still remembers that last show.

"I was huge and you could see Harrison move in my belly when Kane would play the drums," she said. "But I thought I could totally pull it off... After that night Kane said we might need to break for a bit."

Though she did try to make it back after Harrison was born, Russell faced new obstacles.

"I had such a fever to get back in it after Harrison was born," she said. "It seemed like it was the scarlet letter just because I had a kid. Doors were closing because I had a family and in their eyes I couldn't just leave.

"I almost gave up when Hudson was born. I had resigned myself to teaching. My spirit was broken, not because of the babies but it was a transition. Because being a mama and being the lead person for a band didn't mix for me then. I had tried to do the festival thing and it just didn't work.”

But, a parent of one of her students encouraged her to try again.

"He was a fan and told me how everyone loved Paris Luna. He said I should try again," Russell remembered. "So, we played a gig that we probably shouldn't have but when we got on stage it electrified. I was hooked again."

Paris Luna is climbing the musical ladder of success once again, but the group carries a slightly different mindset this time around.

"This is what I love. I am making the best of who I am and just believe that people will take notice," Russell said. "I have my children to thank for that!"

People are taking notice. In 2012 Paris Luna won the Georgia Music Award for Best Rock Female and has opened for Kenny Chesney, Sheryl Crow, and Phillip Phillips among other artists.

“If you love something enough and want it enough and give 150 percent of your mind body and soul, you can make it happen!" she said. "That's what I want to tell these girls today... Babies don't have to stop you from achieving what you want out of life. I haven't let them stop me. My babies are part of me and part of this business now. They love music and can't wait to be part of the band when they get bigger. "

Terry Norton

Where in the

South is that?

In the South, we like unique ways to decorate our buildings, towns or businesses. While driving around Alabama and Georgia for this issue, Andy Petty traveled captured images throughout Alabama and Georgia. Submit your answers to us via email at southernholidaylife@gmail.com or send us a message through Facebook at facebook.com/southernholidaylife. Of all the correct entries (because we know how smart y’all are), we will pick a winner for a Southern Holiday Life prize! Happy Guessing!!!

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Showing School Spirit with Fashion What kind of fan are you? Do you show your school spirit in an understated way or do you go all out? Well, whichever style fits your personality best, we've put together some essentials for your Game Day closet. Pick one of these for a more understated look, or use several if you like to show your team spirit in a bolder way.

Holiday Fashion

by Stacie Money *Brightly Colored Jeans Bright colored jeans are easy to find right now, so get them while they are hot! This is a perfect time for you to grab a pair (or a couple of pairs) at end of season prices. Some of our favorite brands that include bright colors in their designs are J Brand, Loft, J Crew, and NYDJ. The most important thing when it comes to jeans is finding the brand that fits your body type best, so find your perfect jeans and pick your team color. * Fabulous print or school colored heels When you find the perfect pair of heels for your school, whether it be a tiger stripe for Auburn, a black/white hounds tooth for Alabama, or a bright patent gold for GA Tech, snatch them up for your closet. Who knows when you'll see that perfect shoe again and you can wear them for years. *Statement Jewelry Find a statement necklace in your most vibrant school color at your favorite boutique and pair it with a solid dress or top for a trendy and fashionable look. You can typically find one of these pieces for under $25. *Print Dress Judith March is a Southern company, so she has made a point to design dresses for those of us in the 62 Southern Holiday Life

south who need fabulous dresses for Game Day. We have seen some awesome Auburn, Alabama, Georgia, and Georgia Tech dresses out there designed by Judith March. Other designers with fabulous prints to look for are Lilly Pulitzer and Tracy Negoshian. *Classic Button-up Shirt Ralph Lauren and J Crew are great brands to be on the hunt for when looking for this classic style. Easy to dress up or down...wear with jeans or dress up with tailored pants. When the weather cools off, grab a cardigan or blazer and your Game Day shoes, and you will be ready to show your school spirit. *Spirit Pearls These are pearls that come in school colors and have been around

for a few years, so if you haven't already gotten them, maybe it's time to add them to your Game Day jewelry collection. These are also a great gift idea - I get compliments on these each and every time I wear them. *Bright Leather Jacket The perfect leather jacket for your style and body type may be hard to find in the perfect color for your school, so be patient. You may not have it (or find it) for this upcoming season, but be on the lookout and get it when you see it! These boldly colored jackets grab attention and can make an outfit!

At Fringe, we accept clothing on consignment that is in-season, in great condition, and is a current label, so you're sure to find some of these items on a trip to our Downtown Opelika location. Just don't wait until college football season is in full swing because anything in school colors is in high demand between September and November. Instead, keep an eye out all year long and you'll be more likely to find your Game Day essentials.

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Summer Gathering Story & Photo by Tracy Carpenter

Summertime means more time spent outdoors, pool parties and good times on the lake. For me, I still think back to my youth; doors and windows left opened to invite cross breezes through, barefoot walks through the neighborhood, no school and sunny days that stretched into nighttime bonfires on the lake. Hopefully your thoughts go someplace relaxing and warm.

One of the things I look forward to each summer is the availability of all of the delicious fresh seasonal fruit. Just imagine the joy that will accompany summertime with this fruit trifle recipe. You can use it to make a quick last minute dessert for a summer party or prepare individual desserts for a picnic by layering it in mason jars . It will satiate your sugar fix without weighing you down and it looks like you spent a lot of time making it.

I did not measure some of the fruit in this so just use as much as you want.

Fruit Trifle Fresh Strawberries Sliced Green Seedless Grapes Red Seedless Grapes 2 cans Peaches Drained (save the juice) 1 can Pineapple Chunks drained cut into smaller pieces (Save the juice) Blueberries Cool Whip 1 box vanilla instant pudding 2 Tablespoons Orange Tang Mix Wash and prepare all fresh fruit and put in separate bowls. Drain peaches and pineapple chunks. Remember to save the juice! Cut the peaches and pineapple chunks into smaller pieces and put in separate bowls.

Mix pudding mix and tang into the peach and pineapple juice until dissolved. Pour a very small amount over each fruit and stir to coat. Drain well and then layer each fruit in a dish of your choice. I chose a clear glass dish. I put the peaches first, then the green grapes, red grapes, pineapples, strawberries and last blueberries. Top with cool whip and garnish with strawberries and blueberries. To make this a faster dish you can mix all the fruit together and you do not have to drain the pudding and tang mixture from it. Add other fruits too, like kiwi and cantaloupe and others.

The festivities never seem to end during summer so I hope this recipe will help add to the fun.

Tracy Carpenter is the owner of TracyCakes and her creations can be found at Main Street Coffee Shop in Wedowee.

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Salads & Sweets

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Summertime means lazy days and quick to fix dinners. Here in the South, where we don’t need a reason to share a meal with friends and family, it is also the perfect time for family reunions, potlucks and barbecues. We like quick and easy recipes so we don’t miss out on any of the fun to be had and Stacey Little at Southern Bite had just what we needed.

He has down home easy recipes that even the most novice of cooks can be proud to take to Sunday dinner.

Taste of the South Recipes & Photos by Stacey Little Little loves to spend time in the kitchen and released his first cookbook “Southern Bite” in March which features his recipes as well as family recipes from his mother and grandmother.

“Southern Bite” has been featured on the “Today” show on NBC as well as “Fox and Friends” on FoxNews.

For more information about Little or his cookbook, please visit his website www.southernbite.com

Greek Pasta Salad Ingredients 1 (16-ounce) package tricolor or garden rotini pasta 1 small red onion, chopped 2 small summer squash, chopped 1 (2.25-ounce) can sliced black olives, drained 1 (4-ounce) package feta cheese crumbles 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved 1 (14-ounce) bottle Greek vinaigrette dressing Instructions Cook the pasta according to the package instructions and drain well.

Pour the pasta into a large bowl and add the other ingredients. Toss well and refrigerate until serving. If you're going to be serving this the next day, I would wait until a few hours before the meal to add the dressing. If it sits in the refrigerator for too long the pasta absorbs all of the dressing and the salad may become a little dry.

This Greek Pasta Salad can actually be made with any bottle dressing or cheese. Feel free to swap out the veggies, too. It’s just a great basic recipe that you can adapt to make it your own. Y’all enjoy!!

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Lemon Ice Box Delight Ingredients 1 cup graham cracker crumbs 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted 1/2 cup sugar 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar 2 (8-ounce) containers frozen whipped topping, thawed 2 (14-ounce) cans sweetened condensed milk 2 egg yolks 1 cup lemon juice (bottled is fine) Instructions For the Crust Preheat the oven to 350°F. Combine the graham cracker crumbs, butter, and sugar in a medium bowl.

Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9x13 glass baking dish that has been lightly sprayed with nonstick cooking spray. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until just bubbly.

Cool completely.

Next Layer Mix the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and 1 container of the whipped topping until combined. Spread it over the cooled crust.

Next Layer Whisk the sweetened condensed milk, egg yolk, and lemon juice together until combined and slightly thickened. Pour the mixture over the cream cheese layer and spread to the edges.

Last Layer Top with the remaining container of whipped topping and spread to the edges. Refrigerate at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight, before serving.

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Cornbread Salad Ingredients half a batch of cornbread (2 to 3 cups chopped) 1 packet buttermilk ranch dressing mix 1 cup mayo 1/2 cup buttermilk 1 – 14.5 oz can of pinto beans, drained and rinsed 1 – 16 oz can of whole kernel corn, drained 1 small green bell pepper, finely chopped 1 small sweet onion, finely chopped 2 ripe tomatoes, seeded and chopped 2 cups finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese Instructions Cut cornbread into 1 inch cubes and place in the bottom of a large bowl or trifle bowl. In a small bowl, combine ranch dressing mix, mayo, and milk. Mix well and refrigerate. Top cornbread layer with rinsed pinto beans.

Next, layer drained corn. Top with chopped green bell pepper. And onion. Add chopped tomatoes. Add shredded cheddar. Pour ranch dressing mixture on top; refrigerate for several hours to allow the flavors to develop.

Secret Ingredient Fruit Salad Ingredients 1 pint blueberries (about 2 cups) 1 lb strawberries 1 lb seedless green grapes (about 3 cups) 1 (21-ounce) can peach pie filling Instructions Wash the fruit well and place it on paper towels to dry completely. Hull and slice the strawberries. Combine the fruit in a large bowl and pour the peach pie filling over. Stir gently to combine. Refrigerate for about an hour and serve chilled.

This is a SUPER easy recipe that my sister-in-law served at a birthday party recently. We’ve requested it twice since then. I finally just asked for her recipe. It’s so simple, but so impressive. The secret is the can of peach pie filling and topping. It gives the salad a great flavor and sweetness without any work at all. Of course, you can add whatever fruit you like.

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Yammi Cafe

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School’s Out

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Holiday Entertaining Story & Photos

by Deanna Talwalker Deanna Talwalker of Mirabelle Creations shares her ideas for an Easter party. You can find more recipes, party inspiration and purchase party décor from her website www.MirabeleCreations.com.

“Mom, I’m booooooored.” By the middle of summer break, do you start to hear this phrase around your house? It seems that every year, the excitement of summer break only lasts a couple of weeks. Once the exhilaration of being out of school wears off, it may be time to start looking for hassle-free activities. A few easy to plan, fun summer party activities can liven up any ordinary summer day. The following seven ideas

can be executed without a lot of work, but will provide an afternoon filled with fun!

Ice Cream Party – Ice cream parties are an easy way to entertain because they don’t require any cooking or baking. Simply purchase a couple of types of ice cream, edible waffle bowls, and a selection of your favorite ice cream toppings. Kids will love having lots of choices to make any flavor combinations they desire. If you are looking to make your Ice Cream Party a little more put together, you can set out the toppings in matching all white dishes on a serving table with matching labels and table linens.

Sidewalk Chalk Party – During the summer, even a driveway or sidewalk can turn into a party venue. Start by simply purchasing a few boxes of sidewalk chalk. For refreshments, pick up popsicles and lemonade for the kids to snack on while drawing.

This is a great idea for a party with kids of varying ages because toddlers to tweens enjoy creating their own masterpieces.

Lemonade Stand – Lemonade stands are a good way to teach kids about money and charitable giving. Encouraging your children to set up a stand to benefit local charitable causes also gives you a chance to talk to them about giving. It’s a fun activity that they will enjoy and will also make them feel good about helping others.

Water Balloon Fight – Water balloon fights are a exciting activity for any outdoor party or gathering, especially for schoolaged children. Kids will enjoy both filling

the actual balloons with water and throwing them at each other. A few ground rules, such as no throwing at the face or head, will ensure everyone has a good time. After the fight is over, have a race to see how many broken water balloons kids can pick up.

Movie Night – You can recreate the fun of a drivein theater at your home easier than you might think. To set up viewing for the movie, you’ll need speakers, a projector, and a screen. Movie snacks are also a must. Popcorn, movie size candy, nachos, and soft drinks are movie favorites. A few blankets or lawn chairs can be scattered around the lawn for easy seating arrangements.

Backyard Olympics Party – Games like relay races, discus (frisby) throw, shot put (bocce ball) Chamber of Commerce Randolph COunty

like gold medals, made out of vanilla Oreos and red fruit rope, and Olympic torches, made with ice cream cones filled with popcorn, will be a huge hit.

Picnic Party – Sometimes a simple change of location can turn an everyday lunch into an extraspecial meal. By simply packing up lunch into a basket and grabbing a blanket, you can head off throw, long jump and other games to a new destination for lunch. are the key to a cool Backyard Olym- Parks, local college campuses or pics party. Kids will love being even your own backyard make perawarded inexpensive medals purfect locations for picnics. chased at a party supply store. AsThese hassle free ideas are great sign kids a country to represent, boredom busters for the summer. then play the country’s national an- Just don’t tell your kiddos how simthem, easily found online, when ple it was to plan something so fun! they are on the medal stand. Snacks

Making Back to School Easier for Y’all Back to School Time will be here before we know it! Is your family ready? With a little more than 4-6 weeks to go, I wanted to share a few tips with you in hopes to make the transition an easier one for you and for your family.

As an early childhood educator, it has been my experience that being proactive is always better than being reactive in this case, especially if you have one going to school for the first time. If this is you, start now planning days away from your child.

Great ways to do this are to schedule play dates over at a friend’s house, enroll them in a summer camp/program, register them for a Vacation Bible School, sign them up for art classes, tee ball, soccer, dance, etc, or anything that will give them the opportunity to interact with other children and adults without your presence. These activities will help to build their self-confidence and self-assurance in knowing that the world still goes around without mom or dad close by.

Southern Life Story by Alicia Hernandez I know that leaving your little one for the first time can be a heartwrenching event, but NEVER let them see or feel discomfort or fear come from you. Your positive reactions will set the stage. Nevertheless, realize it will be hard for them, and no matter how hard it may be, my best advice is to hug them, kiss them, tell them you love them, and that you will be back for them. Then WALK AWAY and do NOT look back. Having taught kindergarten 78 Southern Holiday Life

many years, I have had plenty of experience with pulling children from parent’s arms, and it is the hardest thing in the world. Most of the time, in my experiences, after five minutes they have forgotten their tears and have begun to play and learn with new friends with a smile on their face. Believe me, if they do not settle soon, you will be hearing from someone. I assure you.

One more piece of advice that I

have in this instance, is the first day may be picture perfect; but the second, third, or maybe even the fourth day may not causing all kinds of chaos and confusion. In this case, revert back to my previous advice; and, please know that they are going to be a more independent and learning-loving child having experienced it.

Academically, the best thing you can do for your child entering

school for the first time is to teach them to write their first (at least) and last name (first letter capitalized and the others lower cased) and to recognize their written name. These skills are so important!

Secondly, if you aren’t already READ, READ, READ to them or with them. Reading with your children is so fundamental to their learning to read independently, Not only does the sound of the written word help develop basic reading skills, but it also builds concentration and longer attention spans.

Thirdly, it is always a great idea if they are able to recognize all 52 letters (upper and lower case) of the alphabet, numbers (1-20), shapes,

If you have older children, it is important to encourage reading for a set amount of time daily. A great way to incorporate this is to schedule library days where they are allowed to choose books that interest them. Be sure to read with them; because it is always a good idea to let them see you reading. However, don’t limit children to just books. Magazines, newspapers, recipes, or even instructional manuals for building rockets will help and colors. them flourish as fluent readers.

Lastly, please allow them opporWith other academic subjects such tunities to practice using scissors to as math, science, writing and history cut paper safely, coloring with cray- is to give your children opportunities ons, writing with a pencil, and gluing to cook using a recipe, count money, with a glue stick or with liquid white set weekly grocery budgets and shop glue, and properly operate a comwith you to compare prices. Encourputer or tablet because classrooms age them to write creative stories, use such technologically now. book reports or letters to Grandma,

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make volcanoes, build with blocks or create models with other materials. Visit local museums, banks, courthouses, historical sites, etc. The Internet has a plethora of ideas for you to select from that will assist in building their skills in these academic areas.

Lastly, activities such as boy or girl scouts, martial arts, sports, music or art lessons, church camps, and play-dates are all exceptional ideas to instill good social and life.

Finally, remember we all need down-time. Too much is just that; and the effectiveness of these activities can be lost altogether. The best advice I can leave you with is just to have fun! Every interaction you have with them presents an opportunity for them to learn something whether it be a social skill, a life skill, a problem-solving skill, or an academic skill.

Just knowing that you have given them the best gift you have to offer them, your time, is the most important thing you could ever do. Good luck and best wishes for a wonderful school year!

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Enjoy Sweet Recipe and Photos by Krayl Funch Movies, commercials and love stories have been written about this magical season. I’m not sure if it is the heat or real magic in the air that makes it my favorite season but I have always looked forward to the long days and warm nights. Growing up I loved being able to stay up late and catch fireflies with the other neighborhood kids, as an adult I still love staying up late with the neighbors but now it frequently includes a fresh made cocktail.

I love using fresh picked herbs and combining them with citrus juice to create new combinations to match my mood. This sipper is ideal for a Garden Party or for serving late into the evening to guests who arrive up the front path. Enjoy.

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The Summer Sipper Juice of 1/4 Fresh Juicy Grapefruit 2 1/2 Ounces of Bombay Sapphire Gin 1 Tablespoon shredded Opal Basil 1 Tablespoon Lemon Peel infused Simple Syrup Combine basil and simple syrup in a cocktail shaker, using a wooden muddler combine ingredients. Add grapefruit juice, gin and ice to the cocktail shaker.

Shake vigorously approx. 30-60 seconds to chill and break up the basil leaves. Pour into a martini or other cocktail glass. Garnish with basil flower.{Makes one good size cocktail} For More Summer Entertaining Ideas Visit www.AnAppealingPlan.com