Your Sumner Holiday 2015

SANTA LAND

GARLANDS & GLITTER

MERRY MANTELS

A DISTINCTIVELY SOUTHERN PLACE HOLIDAY 2015

THE GREENBRIER

A Winter Wonderland

HOLIDAY SPLENDOR

Fashion at the Belmont Mansion

Your Guide to

ALL THINGS HOLIDAY!

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YOUR SUMNER | Holiday 2015 . VOL I-II

FEATURES 23 Fashionable YOU

52 Come Fly With Me

32 In YOUR Backyard

63 Holiday Gift Guide

Holiday Splendor at the Belmont Mansion

Gallatin, Are You Ready for Your Close-up?

The Greenbrier, A Winter Wonderlandt

Shop ‘Til YOU Drop

42 Holiday 101

Combining Homes for the Holidays

COVER PROFILE Our 2015 Holiday cover features Santa Claus going over the wish list for Kay Lynn, Teegan, River, Luke, Colton, Grace, Tristin and Zachary at Santa Land at The Streets of Indian Lake.

Photography by Andrea Davis

WHO WE ARE

We have taken our 15 years of experience and have built a team of professionals who specialize in Residential and Commercial properties. We have the expertise for all your real estate needs ranging from residential, commercial, REO sales and construction management. BURNETT REAL ESTATE GROUP utilizes the latest technologies, market research and business strategies to exceed your expectations. More importantly, we listen to your needs in order to find solutions that are tailored to you.

WHY WE’RE DIFFERENT

When you work with us you don’t just get one agent, you get our entire team. We are a group of experienced, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic individuals with diverse backgrounds and talents; each uniquely suited to their role within the organization.

This team approach to real estate is a win-win for all involved.

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM OUR FAMILIES TO YOURS

Call Matt and Martie Burnett today

615-431-9802

www.burnettrealestategroup.com

YOUR SUMNER | Holiday 2015 . VOL I-II

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TABLE OF CONTENTS YOUR Community

YOUR Social 15 Puttin’ on the Dog & Cat Holiday Gala 17 Garlands & Glitter Fashion Show 22 Christmas Extravaganza & Fashion Show 40 Santa Land at The Streets of Indian Lake 43 White House Christmas Parade 44 Holiday Breakfast With Santa 47 Veterans Day Parade 50 Jingle Mingle 51 Merry Mantels at Historic Rose Mont 56 Goodlettsville Christmas Parade 59 Women of Abstraction 62 Portland Christmas Parade 67 Hendersonville “Who-ville Spectacular” Christmas Parade 69 Gallatin Chamber After Hours Mixer

58 YOUR Community Partner Desneige VanCleve & Women’s Domestic Violence Shelter

64 YOUR Charitable Self Ways to Give This Holiday Season

29 Holiday 101 See the Christmas Lights 34 Eat, Drink & Be Merry with Miss Daisy King

38 Interior Thinking with Eric Ross Interiors 41 New Year, New You

72 YOUR Kids Making the most of the Holidays

with Your Children

73 YOUR Education 2016 Sumner County Schools Calendar

To Resolution or Not to Resolution

46 The Lady Entertains with Krista Ehret 48 From Our House to YOURS Merry Mantels of Rose Mont

YOUR Monthly 10 14 57 74

Letter from the Publisher YOUR Social Secretary Ms. Social Grace SC Did YOU Know?

YOUR Lifestyle

16

20

28

60 Styling YOUR Everyday with Katie Jacobs 66 Read Between the Lines Holiday Storytelling 68 Keeping Score Hockey 101 70 A Southern Gentleman Is...

Shopping for the Man Who Has Everything

Beauty Junkie

YOUR Business

with Julie Jorgensen

YOUR Best Self with Connie Haley

YOUR Effortless Style with Katie Rushton

31

30

It’s YOUR Business

with Wheelhouse Marketing

We’re in the Money

How to Not Break the Bank This Holiday

Come tour the finest model homes in the greater Nashville area.

Models Open Daily Asheville model in Fairvue Plantation Caswell model in Kings Chapel 1184 Potter Lane, Gallatin, TN 37066 1316 Ashby Valley Lane, Arrington, TN 37014 615-767-1244 615-400-5340

Ernst Group, LLC, an Independent Franchise

YOUR SUMNER | Credits

Shelly Robertson Birdsong

Anna Robertson

Johnny Birdsong PRESIDENT

VICE PRESIDENT MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS

CEO & PUBLISHER

Tracey Starck

Caitlin Daschner

Annie Osteen

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

CREATIVE CONTENT EDITOR

COMMUNITY EDITOR

YOUR Sumner is a publication of: Robertson Media Group, LLC 436 Main Street, Suite 205

Andrea Davis

Emily Fordice

Carter Stough

Ron Cheatham

MANAGING EDITOR

DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT CONSULTANT

VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS

Krista Ehret

J.J. Higgins

LIFESTYLE EDITOR

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Franklin, TN 37064 Office: 615.979.1548 www.yoursumner.com

Please send all content & coverage requests to: info@yoursumner.com

O

Cassie Thompson

Kimberly Allen

PHOTOGRAPHER

PHOTOGRAPHER

Steve Absher, Account Exec.

Kingery Printing Company YOUR Printing Partner

615-828-8661 stevea@kingeryprinting.com quotes@kingeryprinting.com

Who We Are

wner and Publisher, Shelly Robertson Birdsong founded Robertson Media Group, LLC (RMG) in 2011 along with her sister Anna Robertson. The addition of Shelly’s husband Johnny Birdsong in 2012, firmly established the leadership team of a small but impactful Publishing and Integrated Media & Marketing Firm, locally owned and with a focus on providing exceptional services to local and national businesses.

With a goal of “being community minded,” RMG strives to provide and participate in all the things that make a community great.

And to have as an objective – to give more than they take - as a thriving member of the business community in one of the nation’s top ranked counties. With collectively 30 years of experience in sales, marketing,

while also partnering and outsourcing to trusted businesses outside our company we can provide everything a small business needs to accomplish their marketing goals at the community and regional level.

Our publications can be a powerful tool for branding and marketing within a small, localized area but to a strategic and concerted audience of true buyers and potential customers. event management and sponsorship fulfillment, publishing, writing and consulting – RMG is capable of meeting their client’s needs and expectations in every way possible.

Having established a team of talented photographers, editors, writers, sales people and social media and marketing experts,

The primary project offering of community based lifestyle magazines began with YOUR Williamson. We are now proud to launch YOUR Sumner. Future publications in other similar – Distinctively Southern Places - are planned.

Contact us for more information at info@robertsonmediagroup.com.

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YS MONTHLY | Publisher’s Letter

O Holy Night Dear Readers, As always, I approach this letter for the December issue as both a holiday message on behalf of myself and my family, our company and the staff of our publications, and as an opportunity for personal reflection on the past year, the eager anticipation of renewal and the promises held in a new year. In this instance, as the end of an amazing year draws to an end, we give thanks and count our many blessings for the incredible growth and success as a business we have experienced this year. And, as we look in to the New Year, we are excited for great opportunities and the chance to continue to serve and give back to our community through publications that celebrate and reflect wonderful and unique places.

“It is the night of our dear Savior’s birth.”

O Holy Night translated by John Sullivan Dwight My personal prayer for all those I hold dear and all of you is for you to have a Merry Christmas. I pray the magic and memories of the season be in your heart and that you be filled with the spirit of our Lord, the true meaning behind these holy and festive days of his birth. When I see Christmas through the eyes of my own child this year, I am overcome with what a miracle life is and how every day is a gift. Every day is filled with wonder and delight. I cannot wait to share more of them with all of you in 2016!

Wishing you peace and joy this Christmas and in the New Year, from all of us at Robertson Media Group,

Shelly, Johnny, Bo, Keeling, Anna, Andrea, Tracey, Emily, Caitlin, Carter, Annie, Krista, Kathy, Adam, Rachel, JJ, Ron, Cassie, Kimberly and Shelby.

I think it’s always fun to re-read this classic Christmas letter and remember the true meaning of the holidays. Enjoy!

On Sept. 21, 1897, The New York Sun published what was to become the most widely read letter to a newspaper. 8-year-old Virginia O’Hanlon, who lived with her parents in Manhattan, sent it. Below is the full text of that letter and the reply by Sun editorial writer Francis Parcells Church.

Dear Editor, I am 8 years old.Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus. Papa says, “If you see it in The Sun, it’s so.” Please tell me the truth, is there a Santa Claus?

Virginia O’Hanlon, 115 W. 95th St. Virginia, your little friends are wrong. They have been affected by the skepticism of a skeptical age. They do not believe except they see. They think that nothing can be which is not comprehensible by their little minds. All minds, Virginia, whether they be men’s or children’s, are little. In this great universe of ours man is a mere insect, an ant, in his intellect, as compared with the boundless world about him, as measured by the intelligence capable of grasping the whole truth and knowledge.

Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy. Alas! How dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus! It would be as dreary as if there were no Virginias. There would be no childlike faith then, no poetry, no romance to make tolerable this existence. We should have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight. The eternal light with which childhood fills the world would be extinguished.

Not believe in Santa Claus! You might as well not believe in fairies! You might get your papa to hire men to watch in all the chimneys on Christmas Eve to catch Santa Claus, but even if they did not see Santa Claus coming down, what would that prove? Nobody sees Santa Claus, but that is no sign that there is no Santa Claus. The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see. Did you ever see fairies dancing on the lawn? Of course not, but that’s no proof that they are not there. Nobody can conceive or imagine all the wonders there are unseen and unseeable in the world.

You tear apart the baby’s rattle and see what makes the noise inside, but there is a veil covering the unseen world, which not the strongest man, nor even the united strength of all the strongest men that ever lived, could tear apart. Only faith, fancy, poetry, love, romance can push aside that curtain and view and picture the supernal beauty and glory beyond. Is it all real? Ah, Virginia, in all this world there is nothing else real and abiding.

No Santa Claus! Thank God he lives and he lives forever. A thousand years from now, Virginia, nay 10 times 10 thousand years from now, he will continue to make glad the heart of childhood.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from all of us at Robertson Media Group!

May the blessings of the season be in YOUR hearts during this joyous time of year!

HELLO SUMNER COUNTY! YOUR Community Magazine is Here!

A DISTINCTIVELY SOUTHERN PLACE

Official launch Fall 2015 DISTRIBUTION Complimentary Distribution throughout Sumner and Davidson Counties.

Pick us up in high-end specialty retail, dining and services locations, local grocery stores and through event sponsorships

We are YOUR Lifesty Comm le unity Social Busine Public ss ation

ALL SUMNER. ALL THE TIME.

Online Daily Content, Community Calendar, Party Pics at yoursumner.com. All Sumner. All the Time.

SOCIAL MEDIA

Social Media on Facebook and Twitter. Also Daily Weekly E-Newsletters!

CONTENT Contact us at info@yoursumner.com for event coverage, advertising, to have a rack at your location, and to submit local news.

Brought to you by the publishers of YOUR Williamson – A Distinctively Southern Place Published by Robertson Media Group, LLC • Custom Publishing & Integrated Marketing Services • Franklin, Tennessee

YOUR SUMNER | Contributors

Julie Jorgensen A self proclaimed Beauty Junkie, Julie is our go-to gal for all things beauty - She scouts out the best deals and the best beauty tricks around.

She treats readers to some hilarious insight into the world of what it takes to be fabulous!

Katie Jacobs Katie Jacobs is a graphic designer, photographer and stylist. She is the art director and creator of stylingmyeveryday. com, a food and lifestyle blog with a focus on styling, entertaining and DIY..

Connie Haley Connie Haley Life Coach is a certified life coach that specializes in helping people love the life they have and from there, create the life they always envisioned. Every issue she will show readers ways to find peace and calm in their lives and in themselves.

Miss Daisy King Tennessee’s “First Lady of Southern Cooking,” Daisy King was the founder and chef of the renowned Miss Daisy’s Tearoom and is now the proprietor and executive chef of Miss Daisy’s Kitchen at Grassland Foodland Market in Franklin, Tennessee. Daisy will be the new YOUR Hospitality and Cooking Contributor both in our monthly print edition and online at www.yourwilliamson.com.

Ginger Jones Ginger Jones is a Speech-Language Pathologist and the owner of Jones Therapy Services, which provides speechlanguage, occupational, and physical therapy in 7 locations across Middle and East Tennessee.

Joe Harkins Co-founder of Wheelhouse Marketing Advisors after spending the previous six years as Vice President, Group Director at J&A. Joe has more than 25 years of experience in both consumer and business-to-business marketing.

Wheelhouse will provide business and marketing insight monthly through their own expertise and that of their clientele via the It’s YOUR Business column.

Krista Ehret As an event designer and co-owner of Southern Soiree, a full service event and wedding planning company, Krista collaborates with discerning brides to bring their vision to fruition. With a degree in interior design and a passion for all things domestic, she also enjoys bringing beauty into everyday life.

Jeffrey Gray Jeffrey Gray is as southern as sweet tea and fried chicken at a Sunday picnic.

This Southern bon vivant, decorator, event planner, painter, food slinger and drink pourer gives advice to the men of Williamson County on all things “Southern gentleman.”

Eric Ross Eric Ross Interiors specializes in full service residential interior design and interior decoration for homes and provides truly unique, luxury design solutions for any room in your home. From design concept to installation and presentation, Eric Ross Interiors manages every aspect of your project and leaves no detail unattended.

Katie Rushton Fashion stylist and owner of Effortless Style, a personal shopping and wardrobe consulting company in Brentwood. She provides a variety of services including Closet Audits, Styling Sessions and Personal Shopping.

We are looking for Contributors for A DISTINCTIVELY SOUTHERN PLACE

Local businesses and experts who wish to contribute monthly content in the areas of: • Interior Design • Cooking • Business • Self-Help

• Wine & Spirits • Fitness • Health & Wellness • Financial

• Education • Kids • Beauty • Fashion

• Gentleman’s Topics • Sports • Entertaining • History

and other applicable areas of interest for the readers of Sumner County.

If you have a desire to contribute to your local magazine please contact our Publisher, Shelly Robertson Birdsong at shelly@robertsonmediagroup.com 12 YOURSUMNER.COM | Holiday 2015

Your Nashville Symphony | Holidays at the Schermerhorn

MERRY A V E R YM A S W I T H CHRIST

ECIAL AND SP

GUESTS Movie in HD with the Nashville Symphony & Chorus

DECEMBER 4 & 13

DECEMBER 5

SMOKEY ROBINSON

at

1

&

7 PM

B R O A D WAY & H O L I D AY W I T H

KRISTIN CHENOWETH

HOLIDAYS & HITS WITH THE

& THE NASHVILLE SYMPHONY

NASHVILLE SYMPHONY

DECEMBER 8

DECEMBER 10 & 11

&

9

CHRISTMAS TRIBUTE TO

Charlie

Brown DAVID BENOIT JANE MONHEIT

Ha ndel’s

MESSI A H

with Giancarlo Guerrero & the Nashville Symphony

Nashville symphoNy & Chorus

DECEMBER 6

DECEMBER 17

615.687.6400

to

20

DECEMBER 31

NashvilleSymphony.org

YS MONTHLY | YOUR Social Secretary

YOUR SOCIAL SECRETARY:

December brings a host of fabulous events we can’t wait to attend! Here are just a few to add to the Social Calendar.

Visit YourSumner.com for more events.

DECEMBER 17

DECEMBER 19

JANUARY 24

Appalachian Tales and Music Christmas Dinner with Joyous Music

Mules & Mistletoe Christmas Parade

Sumner County Bridal Show

Spring Haven Mansion, 6pm

This fun, family event will be a great way to celebrate the holidays! The parade lineup starts at 11am at Dickey Alexander’s shop on Rock Springs Road with the Parade beginning at 1pm.

The parade will have horses and buggies, motorcycles, floats, tractors, antique cars and more!

Tale It Like It Is, a local storytelling group, will host storyteller Gary Carden for this fun event. He will use word and music to weave charming tales of Christmas and the Appalachians.

Dinner will be served with an Appalachian mountain theme, including a taste of Moonshine. Tickets are $40 and include dinner, Moonshine tastings, door prizes and a parting gift. Get your tickets at www.holidayfesttn.org.

EPIC Event Center, 12pm-4pm

Downtown Bethpage, 1pm

The 4th Sumner County Bridal Show, presented by the Gallatin Chamber of Commerce and EPIC Event Centre, will showcase wedding vendors of all kinds and much more. Lounge in the limos, sit in the tents, taste wedding cakes, sample appetizers and register to win valuable wedding necessities.

For more information, go to www.sumnerbridalshow.com.

The comprehensive daily guide to all things Sumner County!

Daily content, online promotions and contests, photos, interactive community calendar, resources for everything including dining, medical, arts and entertainment, real estate, travel, bridal and more! Find a link to everything you were looking for here in our community! Blogs and content from local and regional personalities every week.

Integrated with our social media and eblasts each week, yoursumner.com is where you will go to stay in the know!

SOCIAL | Puttin' on the Dog & Cat Holiday Gala

Story & Photography by Kimberly Allen The Puttin’ on the Dog and Cat Holiday Gala was held at the Bluegrass Yacht and Country Club in Hendersonville this November. The event was sponsored by the Humane Society of Sumner County, which is a non profit organization that promotes the humane treatment of animals. The Gala was in celebration of all of the animals who were adopted into their forever homes, the animals who are still in need of a home, and the people who help all of these wonderful animals. The evening started off with a silent auction, followed by dinner and dessert with announcements by special guest, Channel 17’s Scott Couch. For more information about this organization and how to help please visit, www.sumnerhumane.org.

Desirae Pepper & Sheri Deskins

Brenda Huddleston, Andrea Graham & Marilyn Arnold

Taylor Nunley & Robin Weir

Lucy Carter & Nancy Crawford

Don & Jessica Weir, Tommy Gravelle

Pat Collier, Betsy Word & Fran Young

Lori & Jason Bunch

Tara Riggins, Taylor Hubler & Mindy Pruitt

Sidonie & Lily Pollack

Glenda Tanksley & Mike Barnes Holiday 2015 | YOURSUMNERCOM 15

LIFESTYLE | Beauty Junkie

HACKY HOLIDAYS

BY JULIE JORGENSEN

I

t seems to happen every year, y’all. By the time the Thanksgiving dinner table has been cleared, the hustle and bustle of the holiday season is upon us. I don’t know about you, but I try to enter this time of year with a steadfast refusal to fall prey to the stressful commercial frenzy and instead focus on that in life that’s truly important (family, friends, health, faith). But here’s the kicker: I’m human, just like everybody else. There are still parties to attend, glasses to raise, gifts to buy (I do like spoiling those I love), and general headless-chicken running around to do. So, if you’re a busy gal like me who wants to squeeze every fabulous drop out of this season while still looking effortlessly glam, you’re going to need some go-to beauty hacks.

And just like Santa, I’m here to give you just what you’re asking for this year.

Most of us find ourselves having to rush straight to a holiday party from work without being able to go home and freshen up a little. No sweat.

Invest in a go-to beauty kit to keep in your car or desk. I like to keep travel sizes of dry shampoo, a facial 16 YOURSUMNER.COM | Holiday 2015

mist like Evian (or even good ol’ witch hazel), and a multi-purpose moisturizer or balm, along with tinted brow gel and pencil, concealer, liquid eyeliner and a lipstick darker than what I wear during the day.

Samples of your fave perfume and mascara are good to have on hand, as well.

When the workday is behind you, head to the ladies’ with your go-go-gadget beauty kit. Mist your face and put moisturizer on dry spots, or spread a little into your hands and pat over your face for a nice hydrating boost. Touch up your brows, add some fresh concealer over spots and under your eyes (especially if you’ve been staring at a computer screen all day), and add that bumped-up dramatic lip. Dot a little lipstick on your cheeks, and blend for a dewy finish that matches your lips. Apply your dry shampoo for volume, then rake your hair into a high “woke up like this” bun or a messy, sexy ponytail. Spritz on your signature scent, pop a breath mint and change out your daytime shoes for platform heels or knee-high boots. March your hot self into that party looking like you had a solid nap and a green juice. Fierce.

I realize that I may get some eye rolls with this next piece of advice, but it can’t be

overemphasized: REST! Getting a proper amount of sleep and relieving stress is absolutely crucial during busy times like these. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day. Take a warm bath or shower if you can before bedtime, and don’t watch television to go to sleep. Your brain will have a hard time shutting down after you turn off the lights. Even a quick twentyminute power nap can do wonders when you’re tired and stressed. If you just can’t get enough sleep, fake it with makeup. Line your lower and upper inner eyelids with a fleshcolored eyeliner and dot a tiny bit of pale shimmery eyeshadow on inner corners for that wide-awake look. Paula Dorf Baby Eyes and Buxom eyeshadow in Diamond Darling are absolute superstars. Strategic highlighting can also help you get that refreshed-andready face. The fashion mags are deeming this trend “strobing”, but I think there’s a fine line between putting focus on your best features and just slicking on glittery face cream. I like a shimmery liquid highlighter or even a pressed powder for brow bones, down the center of my nose, on the middle of my bottom lip, and in a “C” shape from above my eyebrows down to the tops of my cheekbones. Benefit High Beam and Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector fit the bill perfectly when it comes to making you look like you’re bathed in candlelight. And a sexy red lip is the perfect attentiongrabbing feature when your eyes might be giving that “I need a pillow and my blankie” vibe. Line lips with a matching shade of red to really make your pout last.

Look for a blue-based red like Lancome Color Design in Red Stiletto to make teeth look whiter as well.

Happy holidays, lovelies! Cheers!

Love, The Beauty Junkie Buying Guide Evian face mist, Buxom, Benefit, and Becca: Sephora Paula Dorf: pauladorf.com Lancome: Macy’s

SOCIAL | Garlands and Glitter Fashion Show Story & Photography by Kimberly Allen The Newcomers and Community held the Garlands and Glitter, “Stylish Southern Glamour for Your Holidays!” Fashion Show in early November at Bluegrass Yacht and Country Club in Hendersonville. The event was a part of Holidayfest and began with a cocktail reception and holiday shopping experience featuring clothing, accessories, fragrances and more from Dillard’s. Later in the evening, guests enjoyed a seated dinner with live entertainment and the fashion show. The event benefited CASA of Sumner County. For more information, visit www.newcomerssumner.org.

Natalie Gagnon & Arlene Cunningham

Charlie & Donna Pastors, Lori & John Molnar

Margaret Alexander & Jomelia Chenault

Emmy Harris & Cheryl Strichik

Nik Shewmaker & Suzanne Holt

Molly & Michelle Johnson

Christi Altstadt, Helen Sevrin & Lynda Evjen

Katie & Jeff Coker

Madeline Gammon & Mikayla Lowe

Betty Kavanagh & Phyllis VanOlst

Maggie Smith & Hannah Williams

Irene Calderon, Johanna Harris & Carol Smith Holiday 2015 | YOURSUMNERCOM 17

John & Teresa Stillman

Patsy Johns, Beverly Jones & Kay Rorick

Kay Brainerd & Marti Bruner

Deanna Nelson & Noel Lotz

Shirley Smith, Billie Hawkins & Joyce Barnhill

Lorna & Ron Woods

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LIFESTYLE | YOUR Best Self

SURVIVING THE HOLIDAYS WITH LESS WINE AND WHINING “Sharing the holiday with other people, and feeling that you’re giving of yourself, gets you past all the commercialism.” – Caroline Kennedy The planning, shopping and cooking. The steady stream of party invites. The endless todo list. It’s no wonder that some of us do not love our wonderful lives during the holiday season. If you feel that your holiday spirit is slipping into “Scroogeville”, don’t despair. Try one, or all, of the holiday survival tips below to get back on track.

Get Crystal Clear. Take some time and decide what matters most to you about the holiday you celebrate. What do you want the holiday season to look like? You can do this solo, or incorporate family members. Pick three main things and put the majority of your time and energy there. If you love to bake, decorate and throw parties, then focus mainly on those activities. Get help with anything you don’t do well or don’t enjoy. If there is a family tradition that you just aren’t loving, consider replacing it with a new one. Stay focused on the reason for the season to avoid overwhelm.

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Make Time for You. Calm your mind: a cup of tea, getting outside, deep breathing or sticking with your regular exercise routine.

Schedule time to replenish your own reserves and simply “be”.

Self-care isn’t selfish, it’s essential during the holiday frenzy. Once you have recharged, you are better prepared to take care of those you love and truly enjoy the festivities. Note: resentment is almost always due to a lack of self-care.

Give Back. Giving to others is at the heart of the holidays. Planning a volunteer activity can reduce stress, model desired behavior for the kids and help the community. Focusing on other people will take you away from your own concerns, put the craziness in perspective and leave you with a big dose of gratitude.

Find the Humor. The holidays are about giving and receiving joy.

If you are looking for what’s wrong in a situation, you will find it. You will also find yourself with a residual, grumpy disposition.

Challenge yourself to find the positive or, at least, the ridiculous in the holiday mayhem. This applies to anything that gets your knickers in a knot this season. Yes, even that irritating relative.

Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa…however you celebrate this season, remember that the ability to enjoy the holidays resides in you, not the gifts, decorations or food. Don’t let anyone or anything steal your joy this year.

Wishing you and your family a safe and happy holiday!

Be you. No apologies.

Connie

SOCIAL | Christmas Extravaganza & Fashion Show Story & Photography by Cassie Thompson The Ladies of Fairvue gathered for a fun filled time of fashion at the Christmas Extravaganza and Fashion Show held at The Club at Fairvue Plantation. A variety of exquisite jewelry and beautiful clothing for purchase were available, along with and a fashion show displaying different styles offered by the various merchant participants.

Nancy Knight, Cynthia West & Cynthia Renee

Our only ISSUE is having too much to cover!

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Williamson County’s Premier SOCIAL  LIFESTYLE BUSINESS  COMMUNITY

See online magazine, daily content, photo galleries and interactive community calendar at:

Nicole Sindle & Jackie Mewbourne

Kori Wofford

Sonya Tate, Sarah Stratton & Sarah Tate

Heather Hehn

Annette Butler & Bettye McDaniel

Anita Schadt & Brenda Mortimer

www.yourwilliamson.com All Williamson. All the time.

436 Main Street, Suite 205 Franklin, Tennessee 37064 615.979.1548 www.yourwilliamson.com

FEATURE Fashionable You

HOLIDAY SPLENDOR AT THE BELMONT MANSION

‘Tis the season to be merry and bright, so during the holidays, why not go glamorous and elegant with your party attire?

Here are some stunning looks to turn heads at the holiday parties and New Year’s Eve celebrations.

From cocktail dresses to evening gowns, suits and tuxedos for every occasion, be festive and have fun during the most joyous season of the year!

Carter Stough looks festive in this high-low crimson cocktail dress by Monique Lhuillier paired with a drape necklace.

Available at Gus Mayer.

James Summerville struts his stuff with this Steel Moda tuxedo and black shoes. Add a bit of cheerful red color with the tie and handkerchief.

Available at Street Tuxedo.

Coffey Anderson is ready for all of the parties of the season with this slim fit Slate Allure tuxedo with a black bowtie, and cognac colored shoes to add to the look.

Available at Street Tuxedo.

Amy Talley wears a beautiful Diane von Furstenberg Kailey wrap dress with a red and black floral skirt for a more formal holiday evening.

Available at Gus Mayer.

Thank you to Belmont Mansion for providing a beautiful, holiday adorned location for our fashion shoot. Thank you to Gus Mayer and Street Tuxedo for dressing our models in splendid looks for the season. Special thank you to our models – Amy Talley, Carter Stough, Coffey Anderson and James Summerville.

BelmontMansion.com GusMayer.com StreetTuxedo.com

Carter is ready to toast to the New Year in this more formal of New Year’s Eve looks, a Monique Lhuillier cobalt and navy gown.

Available at Gus Mayer.

Amy is ready to ring in the New Year with this fun, blue Sachin & Babi NOOIR Alma Dress paired with gold and blue stone earrings.

Available at Gus Mayer.

Every woman will look wonderful and stay warm in this black sheared Natural Furs mink coat.

Available at Gus Mayer.

A statement is made with this navy Loro Piana cashmere, double-faced cape.

Available at Gus Mayer.

James simply changes to a black bow-tie and gives this Steel Moda tuxedo a whole new look for a New Year’s Eve event.

Available at Street Tuxedo.

LIFESTYLE | YOUR Effortless Style

YOUR EFFORTLESS STYLE: NEW YEAR...NEW YOU...NEW CLOSET!

for. We all have those items, and many times they tend to just sit in our closet. Now is a good time to pull those out and take them to get them fixed.

The “Toss” pile is for all of those items that have holes, permanent stains and/or major wear/peeling. No need to donate these items since they are not suitable for reuse. These items should go in that “Toss” trash bag and stay there!

I will be sharing several more tips throughout the month of January over on my Effortless Style blog. Stop by and check it out at effortlesstyle.com.

A few of the great places to donate: Is your New Year’s resolution to get your closet cleaned out and more organized? A lot of people have this same resolution, and I always do several closet audits in January each year.

Below are a few tips to help you get started on that New Year’s resolution.

One of the most important parts of getting your closet back in order is to purge and organize. Before you get started, pull out a couple of large trash bags and label them – “Clean,” “Donate,” “Repair,” and “Toss.” This will help you to have an exact place to put items as you are going through your closet.

I always start in a closet and move left to right going over every single item. I know some of you are probably looking at the categories above and thinking to yourself “Clean?” seriously. Believe it or not, almost

28 YOURSUMNER.COM | Holiday 2015

every client I have worked with has had at least one item (or a few) that has gotten placed back in their closet that had a stain they didn’t realize was there, so we usually have at least one item that needs to go in the laundry or to the cleaners.

The “Donate” pile is for those items that you don’t want anymore. You either haven’t worn them for a while or they don’t fit or maybe you just don’t like the way they fit.

Whatever the case, these items are still suitable to be donated to a charity or cause that can use them. We have several great places to donate items here in Williamson County. I’ve noted a few of those here.

Do you have items in your closet that need to be tailored? Or maybe you have something that needs a button sewn back on or a zipper replaced. This is what your “Repair” pile is

Gallatin C.A.R.E.S. Food Pantry & Thrift Store 330 Durham Ave. North Gallatin, TN 37066 (615) 452-5732 www.gallatincares.org Hendersonville Samaritan Thrift Store 116 Dunn St. Hendersonville, TN 37075 (615) 824-7105 www.tnhsa.org

Your Personal Fashion Expert,

KATIE RUSHTON

FEATURE | Holiday 101

WHERE TO SEE Maybe you didn’t get your inner Clark Griswold on this year, but that doesn’t mean you cant see thousands of twinkling lights on display!

Check out these amazing light shows in and around Sumner County!

HOLIDAY LIGHTS AT CHEEKWOOD November 27 – January 3 Open every night from 5pm - 10pm except December 25 1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville, TN 37205 www.cheekwood.com HOLIDAY LIGHTS AT OPRYLAND November 20 - January 2 FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS 4pm - 12am including December 21-23 & December 27-29 SUNDAYS THROUGH THURSDAYS 4pm - 11pm including Dec. 25, 4pm - 1am on Dec. 30 2800 Opryland Drive, Nashville, TN 37214 www.marriott.com TRINITY MUSIC CITY, USA IN HENDERSONVILLE December 11, 12, 18 & 19 5pm - 8pm 1 Music Village Blvd, Hendersonville, TN 37075 www.trinitymusiccity.com

JELLYSTONE PARK November 6 - January 3 Open Nightly 5pm - 10pm with extended weekend & holiday hours 2572 Music Valley Drive, Nashville, TN 37214 www.thedancinglightsofchristmas.com FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS November 28 - January 1 Thursday to Sunday 5pm - 9pm 945 Baddour Parkway, Lebanon, TN 37087 www.lebanonwilsonchamber.com

LOOKING FOR THE PERFECT GIFT?

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LOOKING FOR THE PERFECT GIFT?

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it never goes out of style. it never goes out of style.

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BUSINESS | We’re in the Money

How to Not Break the Bank This Holiday

BY KRISTA EHRET

T

his time of the year there is a steady stream of gift exchanging that starts way before Christmas Day. From hostess gifts, to showing gratitude to service workers, to bringing your hair stylist a little something, the opportunity for giving is everywhere. This is part of what makes this such a wonderful time of year, but it can also become overwhelming and pricey when not monitored. The best solution for saving money while still participating in the tidings is to create some DIY options. For some of us, gifts created at home can trudge up memories of failed craft projects and the smell of burnt cookies. However there are some great options that are easy and cost effective but still fun for the recipient. Here are a few of my favorites:

FOR A TEACHER: Give the gift of pampering with a homemade sugar scrub and a pair of cozy socks. There are tons of easy scrub recipes on Pinterest, but for a festive option try the following for a yummy smelling whipped gingerbread SUGAR SCRUB INGREDIENTS ½ cup Brown Sugar (light or dark) ½ Pure Cane or Granulated Sugar ½ cup Coconut Oil 1 tsp Vanilla Extract ½ tsp Cinnamon ½ tsp Nutmeg ½ tsp Ground Ginger ½ tsp All Spice Jar

FOR FRIENDS: Offer some spirit this season by giving the gift of their favorite cocktail. Purchase an airplane bottle of their beverage of choice and tie it to the lip of a mason jar. Put a small can of a mixer in the jar. Add a straw and a cute tag to the outside, and you’ve got a gift guaranteed not to be regifted. Some good combinations are Jack Daniels and a can of CocaCola, Bailey’s and a canned Starbucks coffee, or vodka and cranberry juice.

FOR THE MAILMAN AND POSTMAN: Grab a bag or two of M&M candies and tie a ribbon around them with a tag that reads: Thanks for driving Miles & Miles to bring us our mail (highlighting the M&M part). For an extra touch, consider including a pair of gloves or mittens.

FOR A HOSTESS: Create a personal tea kit. Purchase a pretty coffee mug, fill it with a decorative hand towel, and then tie a bag of your favorite tea to the towel.

Stick in a pretty gift or cellophane bag.

INSTRUCTIONS 1. Combine sugars and coconut oil in the bowl of a stand mixer and beat with a paddle attachment until a fluffy paste starts to form 2. Scrape down sides and add in vanilla and spices.

3. Beat on low until spices work their way into the mix, increase to medium speed and beat for 30 seconds or until light and fluffy.

4. Transfer to a jar and seal with a lid.

5. Dress it up if giving as a gift.

6.Use within a month with hot water and gently exfoliate into skin.

FOR YOUR COWORKERS: Create a crowd-pleasing popcorn kit by pouring popcorn kernels into a cellophane bag and mixing a couple of flavored salts into small mason jars.

One super easy combo is ranch seasoning and chives. There are lots of recipe options online.

FOR YOUR NEIGHBORS: Homemade Simmering Potpourri. Buy some cellophane bags and fill each one with the following: an orange, a couple of cinnamon sticks, some whole cloves, a sprig of rosemary, and some cranberries. Tie the items into the bag with a pretty ribbon and attach an instructions tag that reads “Simmering Holiday Potpourri. Cut orange into quarters. Add all ingredients to a pot. Cover with water. Heat on medium-low to fill your home with a wonderful festive fragrance. Continue to add water every 45 minutes throughout the day.”

BUSINESS | It’s YOUR Business

WANT TO HELP KEEP NASHVILLE A GREAT PLACE TO LIVE AND WORK? GET TO KNOW OUR VITAL SIGNS.

T

hink about it, right now Nashville’s future is so bright you gotta wear shades! Being America’s “it” city is invigorating. However, our current BOOM times will have some long-term sideeffects that cannot be ignored. Increasing congestion. Rising cost of living. Growing deficit of affordable housing.

For the past two years I have served as a member of the Vital Signs Action Team at the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce.

The annual Vital Signs report, which is authored by Dr. Garrett Harper and his team at the chamber, analyzes a mountain of data collected from 750 telephone surveys of randomly selected adults in the 17 counties that make up the Nashville Metropolitan Statistical Area. The 2015 Vital Signs Report, which was recently released, presents some compelling data and eye opening findings.

Here are two key findings in the 2015 Vital Signs report that should be important to business owners and leaders:

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Issue: Education levels are hindering career advancement In five Nashville area counties at least 25% of the adults have a bachelor’s degree or higher. While nearly 41% of respondents in the Nashville area have attained at least an associate’s degree, another four out of 10 respondents earning less than $50,000 said they needed more education to advance their careers. Does your business offer tuition assistance or reimbursement as a benefit?

Maybe you should.

Issue: Half of respondents in the 2015 poll said they would use public transportation if they had more options from which to choose.

Many businesses in Williamson County are struggling to find and keep qualified employees. While this is being driven by many factors, one reason is Williamson County doesn’t have a county-wide public transportation system. We are very carcentric in everything we do. It’s time for Williamson County businesses to incentivize carpooling or use of crowd-sourced transportation options such as Uber and Lyft. To get the right employees, maybe your business needs to provide transportation assistance or incentives to a prospective employee as part of their compensation. I realize this is a “hidden wage” but not filling the job opening hurts your productivity, sales and profitability. Only you can answer which option costs your business more.

Joe Harkins Wheelhouse Marketing Advisors www.wheelhouseworks.com

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P O O C S

! s w e N e h mmunity t n i U YO your business and lcoocal news Submit n in our ems must o i s u l c n ri s it n e w s fo ue. New e Month s s i y r e ev th section 15th of e h t d e e Press tt d i u l m c b n u I s . be on ublicati al Photo t P i g o i t D r s o Re pri m d High n a e mner.co s u a s e r u o R el y t o i n fo @ or Logo

COMMUNITY | In YOUR Backyard

Gallatin, Are You Ready for Your Close-up?

M

any of you have recently seen the commercials about Gallatin and Sumner County. They showcase the numerous places, activities, things to do and more. Gallatin is booming with business and events. These commercials are a great approach to show people what they are missing, but also show those that are familiar with the area all of the “new” in Gallatin. If you have not see them yet, you can go to www.gallatintn. org for the “Gallatin Welcomes You” commercial video. Also, we are giving you the inside scoop here with our interview with Gallatin Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director, Kim Myers.

BY ANNA ROBERTSON

YS: WHAT WERE YOU PLANNING TO ACCOMPLISH WITH THE NEW MARKETING PLAN OF THE TELEVISED COMMERCIALS?

KIM MYERS

KM: The Gallatin Welcomes You campaign was launched as a partnership with the City of Gallatin and the Gallatin Chamber. Currently, the project is funded through a grant from the City with the Chamber managing the campaign. Both parties realized a need to market Gallatin regionally, in an effort to let people know that we are not the Gallatin of yesterday.

We wanted to let outsiders know that Gallatin is most certainly a destination,

whether it is for a weekend or a lifetime; we have local attractions, we have jobs, we have retail, dining – we truly have something for everyone!

more videos. We’re prepared to tell Gallatin’s story the best way(s) possible - through its people, sights and sounds.

YS: WHAT HAS THE RESPONSE BEEN?

KM: People need first know that we’re here, not just some city near Nashville, but one with our very own unique identity. Sure we have the attractions that most surrounding Tennessee cities have –we have quality of place. More importantly, we can offer a quality of life for a wide variety of individuals. We are indeed not far from Nashville, we are rich in history, we have strong and growing business community, and we have a heart – a strong sense of community, one who loves to show love locally. We have always been dubbed as ‘growing and gracious’ and as cheesy as one may think that sounds, it absolutely stands true. We are a city to watch, we are a city to visit, we are a city for you—Gallatin is a must see!

KM: The response from the campaign has been overwhelmingly positive! We receive calls and visitors weekly here at the Chamber office, folks saying ‘we saw Gallatin on TV, send us more info’ or ‘we saw you on TV and we’re coming for lunch – where should we go?’ Our businesses have seen an increase in traffic throughout the campaign with guests frequently from outside our zip code. Exactly what we were wanting! Hits on our websites, as well as social media, have continued to increase daily.

YS: WHERE ARE THE COMMERCIALS AIRED? KM: So far, the commercials have been aired on local broadcasting networks, Channel 2, 4 and 5, as well as some Comcast spots. We have also run several digital campaigns online. Since this is a regional campaign, we are marketing outside of Sumner County. We have covered most of the mid-state and a little bit into Kentucky as well.

YS: WHAT ARE THE NEXT STEPS WITH THE MARKETING? KM: I can’t tell you all of our secrets, but we plan to not only continue this campaign but also grow it. Gallatin has a lot going on, a lot to offer, and we’re ready to tell the world. Keep your eyes peeled for some different types of marketing, a further reach, and also some

YS: WHAT ABOUT GALLATIN DO YOU MOST WANT TO BRING AWARENESS TO?

YS: WHAT ELSE WOULD YOU LIKE OUR READERS TO KNOW? KM: I encourage all to stop by our office at 118 West Main Street, just off of Gallatin’s Historic Downtown Square. We’d love to meet you and tour you around. Before you come, check out our website at www.gallatintn.org and be sure to follow us on social media outlets like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube to stay ‘in the know’ on local happenings.

LIFESTYLE | Eat, Drink & Be Merry

Spread Holiday Cheer with Delectable Delights WITH MISS DAISY KING

H

appy Holidays! Or should it be Merry Christmas? We live in an era in which everything seems to have become politicized to incite controversy, which misses the point. This is a season, as with the famous World War I Christmas Truce, in which even the enemies in battle are at least momentarily united in peace and love. It is a season to take stock of our blessings and realize, in spite of stress and tribulations, “It’s a Wonderful Life”.

A number of celebrations are coming up this month, which vary depending on an individual’s religious faith. Christmas, of course, is the celebration of the miracle of the birth of Jesus Christ in the humblest of circumstances, yet under the glorious Star of Bethlehem. There are many beautiful metaphors of encouragement to be taken from just that part of His story, theological aspects not

withstanding. Jesus himself celebrated Hanukkah, the Jewish Holiday, which is also recognized this month. Kwanzaa, the African secular holiday, is celebrated this month by people of many faiths.

Celebrated in all of these holidays is the sharing of good food with those we love. That’s where we come in at Miss Daisy’s Kitchen. Here are recipes to share with friends and family in the spirit of love and unity, which I believe is the real essence of this season. From our family to yours, we wish you all Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, Feliz Navidad, Mele Kalikimaka, Happy Hanukah, Happy Kwanzaa and a Happy December!

Love, Miss Daisy

Pistachio Cream Cheese Cookies 1/2 cup butter, softened 3 ounces cream cheese, softened 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar 1 large egg 3 teaspoons grated lemon peel 1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 to 2 drops green food coloring 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon finely chopped pistachios 1/3 cup shelled pistachios Assemble ingredients and utensils. In a large bowl, beat butter, cream cheese and sugar until blended. Beat in egg, lemon peel, vanilla and food coloring. In another bowl whisk flour, baking powder and salt.

Gradually, beat into creamed mixture. Divide dough in half: shape each into 7 1/2 inch logs. Roll in pistachios. Wrap in plastic wrap.

Refrigerate 2 hours or until firm. Unwrap and cut crosswise into ¼ inch slices. Place 1 inch apart on ungreased baking sheet. Press a whole pistachio into center and bake in a 375 degree oven for 7-9 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. Remove from pans and place on wire racks to cool. Yield: 5 dozen.

Miss Daisy’s Jackson Pie 1 cup sugar 1/4 cup butter, melted 3 eggs, slightly beaten 3/4 cup light corn syrup 2 tablespoons bourbon 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup chopped pecans 1/2 cup chocolate chips 1 unbaked 9-inch pie shell

Assemble ingredients and utensils.

In a large bowl, mix the sugar and butter until soft. Add the eggs, syrup, bourbon, vanilla and salt.

Mix until just blended. Spread pecan and chocolate chips in the bottom of the pie shell. Pour the filling into the shell. Bake in a 350 degree oven for 50-60 minutes.

Yield: 6 servings.

Miss Daisy’s Kitchen • 2176 Hillsboro Road • Franklin, Tennessee 37069 615.599.5313 • MissDaisyKing.com • facebook.com/MissDaisysKitchen

Fresh Coconut Cake Cake 2 cups sugar 1 cup vegetable shortening 2 1/2 cups self-rising flour 4 eggs 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1 cup milk

Assemble ingredients and utensils.

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl. Line the bottom of 3 round 9-inch pans with wax paper.

Grease and flour pans. Pour in cake mixture. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes or tests done.

Filling 1 1/2 cups fresh coconut 1 cup Evaporated milk 1 cup sugar

Cook in a heavy pot until thick and spread between layers and sides.

Frosting 1 cup sugar 1 1/2 cup light corn syrup 3 tablespoons hot water 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract 3 egg whites 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar 1/4 teaspoon salt Fresh coconut

Pour ingredients into a heavy pot and mix with electric mixer while cooking.

Beat until stiff peaks are formed.

Spread on cake on top of filling. Add additional coconut over cake.

Yield: 8-10 servings.

Ginger Bread Trifle

1 cup butter,softened 1 1/2 cups sugar 1 cup sour cream 4 large eggs 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons baking soda 2 teaspoons ground ginger 2 teaspoons pumpkin spice 2 (12 -ounce) Cool Whip, thawed 3 (10-ounce) jars lemon curd 1 (12-ounce package fresh cranberries

Assemble ingredients and utensils. In a large bowl, beat butter, sugar and sour cream until fluffy. Add molasses, beating until combined. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well. In another large bowl, whisk together flour, soda, ginger, pumpkin spice. Gradually add flour mixture to butter mixture until combined. Pour batter into greased and floured 13x9 inch pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 45-55 minutes. Cool, cut into cubes or slices. In a large bowl, combine Cool Whip and lemon curd until smooth. In a trifle bowl, place one-third of cake cubes. Top with one-third of lemon mixture and sprinkle with cranberries.

Repeat layers twice. Garnish. Yield 10-12 servings.

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LIFESTYLE | Interior Thinking

Interior Designs by Eric Ross Interiors

A Checklist for Your Holiday Guest Room

BY ERIC ROSS

S

o, the holidays are upon us! We will soon be welcoming not just partygoers, but friends and family that come to our perfectly coiffed homes (at least, they should be), to occupy guest quarters, eat one’s food and spoil the grand dogs. Don’t just prepare the public areas of the home. Look at the rooms that may not get the attention they need throughout the year. Now is the perfect time to take a peek at the guest room and bath to make sure that everything is in ship shape.

Here’s a handy checklist to make sure you are ready to make your guests feel welcome.

If you get it right, you may have to ask them to leave.

38 YOURSUMNER.COM | Holiday 2015

Photography by Leverage Creative

Interior Designs by Eric Ross Interiors NUMBER 1: A COMFY BED. I do have a recipe for the perfect bed. The best-made bed includes a variety of bedding depending on the temperatures outdoors and the temperatures of the guests. The trick to bed making is layering.

Just like a great outfit, layering not only gives you the opportunity to create an interesting bed ensemble, it also allows options for your guest to control their own comfort. By using a light blanket, quilted coverlet (or Matelasse if your trying to impress your guest) and a duvet comforter, your guest can choose how best to find the perfect temperature while resting. Be sure to have an extra throw or blanket nearby for them to make themselves comfortable in case they don’t want to make down the bed for a nap.

NUMBER 2: PROVIDE NICE TOWELS AND WASH CLOTHES AND A PLACE TO HANG THEM. Towels are so important to creating a haven for your guests. Soft looped yarn of the finest cotton you can afford tells the guests you are glad to host them and given them special thought. I always like to provide a stack of freshly laundered white towels and lay them out on the vanity so they know which towels to use. If you are like me, you have decorative towels, and the guest should not have to guess which to use. This gives them the cue to use these towels with confidence.

NUMBER 3: EXTRA TOILETRIES. Not only should you provide the guests with fresh soap, it is thoughtful to provide small shampoos, conditioners, disposable razors and toothbrushes. How many times have you gone to visit friends and relatives only to discover (gads!) no toothbrush.

Providing for your guest’s every need is the signature of a good host.

NUMBER 4: A SPOT TO SIT. Perfect perches are easy to create. Just take into consideration that this seat is not only a place to sit, but also a tool to help hold a suitcase, a place to tie a shoe or act as a valet for last night’s clothes. A chair or small sofa (what luxury) in a guest room can take on many roles for your guest. It can turn an otherwise dull room with a bed and nightstand only, into a suite. Look around the house and see if there is a chair that perhaps is on its last leg in a high traffic room. Simply place a cleverly coordinated slipcover over it and move it into the

guest room. Now you have repurposed a piece that will be very useful to guests when they come to visit.

NUMBER 5: A CARAFE OF WATER AND DRINKING GLASS. This is such a must for guests. They are in an unfamiliar environment.

They wake up at night and need a drink. Instead of adventuring down stairs or dark hallways, your guests can pour a drink before they tuck in for the night and again be reminded of how thoughtful you are.

And please, no plastic cups here. Glass is a must; this is a home after all.

NUMBER 6: CURRENT MAGAZINES FOR READING. We’ve all been there. It’s the middle of the night, in a strange place and we can’t sleep. What to do? The sheep counting isn’t working.

The lamp turns on and your visitor is pleasantly surprised to find the latest from his or her favorite sporting or design (of course!) magazine placed by their bed. Again, you’ve thought of everything.

NUMBER 7: A DESK. Just like a chair, a desk can provide a variety of services to the overnight guest. It can be used as a vanity to fix hair or make up. This is especially helpful if two people are using the room so one can be in the bathroom while the other one can be getting ready in the bedroom. The desk can be used as a work surface for catching up on work and electronic device storage. In an age where everyone has an average of 3 electronic devices, this provides a great area for a docking station for recharging. If you’re like me, houseguests and their myriad of paraphernalia do dampen my holiday spirits, as well as clutter my living room. By providing a place for the guest to store personal electronics, they won’t show up in your kitchen or office for charging. If you really want to go the extra mile here, include note cards for them. This really drives home the idea of hospitality, as if they are staying in a high-end hotel.

So there it is—THE definitive checklist for creating a haven for your holiday houseguests. Many of you will welcome family and friends, so do your best to provide for whatever needs arise. And, for those who don’t anticipate overnight guests, it’s best to plan as if you are having a house full. You never know when the next winter storm, or holiday party, will make your house the best place to spend a night…or two.

Heaven forbid!

Eric Ross Interiors | 220 Lewisburg Avenue, Franklin, TN 37064 615.472.8236 EricRossInteriors.com Follow Eric Ross Interiors on FaceBook, Instagram and Twitter Holiday 2015 | YOURSUMNERCOM 39

SOCIAL | Santa Land at The Streets of Indian Lake

Story & Photography by Cassie Thompson Santa brought out his special helpers to accompany him during a night full of photo taking and making wishes come true! Santa Land opened at The Streets of Indian Lake in Hendersonville in November and welcomed that special man in the red suit to Sumner County!

Not only did kids have an opportunity to meet and talk to Santa Claus, but also had the chance to meet and snap a picture with other holiday friends such as Jack Sparrow and Elsa. The lighting of the tree left all the kids with smiles and visions of sugarplums and long Christmas goody lists. To find out more information, please visit www.streetsofindianlake.com.

Olivia Wanner with Elsa & Anna

Santa Claus & Joseph Sadler

Owen Huckabay, Wyatt Huckabay & Henry Miller

Mika Lewis with Belle

Addison Page, Cooper Page & Gracie Clark

Tyler Tyree & Samantha Tyree 40 YOURSUMNER.COM | Holiday 2015

Lucy Drew & Hawkins Fuqua

Becky Peterson & Mac Peterson

Hudson Langlois & Emeri Langlois

LIFESTYLE | New Year, New YOU!

NEW YEAR’S

BY THE NUMBERS Via details.com

A

fter the holiday rush subsides and our pants start to feel a little tighter after the eating madness that took place in December, we face the New Year and the scale, with trepidation.

Its’ time to make some resolutions and we don’t just mean, stop at one piece of pie! Here are few New Year’s resolution facts by the numbers:

45:

Percentage of Americans who usually make New Year’s resolutions

10: 1 in 3:

Amount by which people who fully commit to making resolutions are more successful at keeping them.

Number of people who ditch their vows by the end of January.

Top reasons include being too busy or not being committed to their goals in the first place.

66: 73:

Percentage of resolvers who set fitness goals as part of their resolutions.

Percentage of those who gave up before meeting their goal.

THE TOP AMERICAN RESOLUTIONS 21% Weight loss 14%Improve finances 14% Exercise 10% Get a new job 7% Healthier eating 5% Manage stress better 5% Stop/reduce smoking 5% Improve a relationship 3% Stop procrastinating

3% Set time aside for self 3% Start a new activity/hobby 2% Improve my work habits 2% Stop/reduce drinking alcohol 1% Assertion/learn to say no

Want to beat the odds? Tell others your goal, says John C. Norcross, Ph.D., ABPP, a distinguished professor of psychology at the University of Scranton and author of Changeology: 5 Steps to Realizing your Goals and Resolutions. “Going public increases accountability and allows for more support,” he says.

LIFESTYLE | Holidays 101

Combining Homes for the Holidays

BY KRISTA EHRET

B

roaching the holiday season for the first time as newlyweds can be a tricky game of tug of war. Everyone has special traditions they want to incorporate and family members pining for their time.

So, how to balance everything definitely takes some finesse. While everyone’s situation is different, the best place to start is sitting down and coming up with compromises that can be made on each side.

I’ve spoken to several of my couple friends and asked how they are able to keep the peace and create a fun season for both. Here are some ideas: ALTERNATE THE DAYS EACH YEAR. If both of your families live within driving distance, this may be a good option. For example, you would spend Christmas Eve with one side of the family and Christmas Day with the other. Then, you alternate the following year. This gives you the opportunity to see everyone and share in the traditions and festivities that occur on both days.

CHOOSE A YEARLY GAME PLAN. Some families have a large celebration on Christmas Eve. For others, it’s all about Christmas Day. If you find yourself in this fortunate situation, it makes things easy.

You know which day you’ll go where, and it happens that same way every year.

42 YOURSUMNER.COM | Holiday 2015

SPLIT HOLIDAYS. If your families are further away, then your best bet may be to alternate the actual holidays. For instance, go to one for Thanksgiving and the other for Christmas.

You can flip these each year.

F

Christmas Cards. You maybe weren’t too keen on the idea of sending out a Christmas card that featured you and your cat. Now, you and your spouse can finally join in on the fun and send cards of the two of you (cat optional).

F

CREATE YOUR OWN TRADITIONS. Not everyone is interested in spending the holidays traveling. Newlyweds as a pair are a family and have the option to simply stay home and create their own memories.

Guilt can sometimes be associated with this, as family members are disappointed.

To combat this, simply extend an invitation and offer to host the holiday at your house.

This flips the bill and gives them the opportunity to choose.

Secret Santa. Have a neighbor or friend that could use a little extra Christmas cheer this year? Bake some goodies or put together a small gift basket and deliver it to their doorstep on Christmas Eve.

The biggest thing to remember here is that you can’t please everyone. Yes, it’s hard to let old traditions go, and it’s flattering that everyone wants you there for everything.

However, your loyalty is to your significant other now, and the families will have to come to terms with that. You must work as a team and be as fair to one another as possible. At the end of the day, know that it’s ok to set boundaries and say no to the family pressure. To go along, here are five fun Christmas traditions to start as newlyweds:

Pucker Under the Mistletoe. Even if it’s a selfie, take one smoochy photo under the mistletoe each year. This will eventually make for a cute collection.

F

A New Ornament. Purchase one new sentimental ornament for your family tree each Christmas. The first year is easy, get something cute with your wedding date on it. There are tons of options on Etsy.

F F

Do Something Charitable. Whether you adopt an Angel, go to a soup kitchen, go caroling at a retirement community, etc, start a tradition of participating in at least one charity each season. It’s rewarding and appreciated. Plus, it will be something wonderful for your children to eventually be a part of.

SOCIAL | White House Christmas Parade Story & Photography Submitted The White House Christmas Parade and Miracle on Main Street was held on December 5th and brought a huge crowd out for a beautiful day to celebrate the season! The parade had a contest for best decorated floats, there were vendor booths for shopping, live music and entertainment. For more information on White House events, go to www.cityofwhitehouse.com.

152 Lake Terrace Drive | Hendersonville 5 BR, 3 Full BA | $285,000 Amy Graves | 615.604.0027

112 Natchez Drive | Hendersonville 4 BR, 2 Full & 1 Half BA | $284,900 Marilyn Bristol | 615.390.2318

102 Long Hollow Pike | Goodlettsville Commercial Property | $900,000 Vickie Johnson | 615.708.6664

440 Highway 76 | White House 6 BR, 4 Full & 6.5 BA | $599,000 Frances Marcou | 615.497.9927

131 Indian Lake Blvd. Ste. 200 Hendersonville, TN 37075 Phone: 615-822-2003 • Fax: 615-822-2725 Each Office Independently Owned and Operated

Marilyn Bristol 615.390.2318

Amy Graves 615.604.0027

1424 Madison Creek Road | Goodlettsville 3 BR | 2 Full & 1 Half BA | $254,900 Candee Potter | 615.828.7496

Vickie Johnson 615.708.6664

Frances Marcou Candee Potter 615.497.9927 615.828.7496 Holiday 2015 | YOURSUMNERCOM 43

SOCIAL | Holiday Breakfast with Santa

Story & Photography by Cassie Thompson Decisions, Choices, and Options held their 8th annual Holidayfest Breakfast with Santa in December. The event was held at the Bluegrass Yacht and Country Club, in Hendersonville. It is a way to not only raise awareness about the facts of teen pregnancy and the options available to young mothers, but also a way to bring families together for a heart warming meal around the table with their loved ones. Kids had fun showing their moves on the dance floor to Christmas tunes. They also had the chance to just hangout and take some pictures with Mr. and Mrs. Claus. The Grinch attended which made for an even more memorable time for the little ones. This event sells out each year, so make sure to plan ahead to attend next year for great food and fun times. You can find out more about this organization and event at www.decisionschoicesandoptions.com.

Ava Flynn & Mrs. Claus Cooper Owens & Summer Owens with Santa Claus

Tay Sadler, Trace Williams, Brock Lockhart, Kooper Brumley & Kolby Brumley with The Grinch

Amlyn, Jason &Cassie Hulme

Jeff, Anna Claire & Tracie Hartley

Jamie Clary, Beth Cox, Dawn Gregory, Joi Wasall, Stephanie Finch & Bryan Bondurant

Connie Maynord & Zachary Clary

Jessica McMurry with Santa Claus

Olivia Wright & Karene Hardin 44 YOURSUMNER.COM | Holiday 2015

Ava & Jen Roman

Kendall Calyborne, Mason Vanns, Marie & Caylee Clayborne

Riley Slager & Avery Slager

S JS

Janet Sims

LAND

for Sale

Jamie Blackwell & Tammy Higgins

Damian Jewett

Coldwell Banker Lakeside Realtors

Pat Hawkins, Lynn Braswell, Lucian Murray, Robert Murray, Ani & Asailio Timmermeier, Marylin & Frank Swinea

530 W. Main St. • Hendersonville, TN 37075 615-824-5920 ext. 324 • 615-522-8924 mobile 615-336-7957 Janet Sims peggy@peggystpeters.com jsims@realtracs.com

LIFESTYLE | The Lady Entertains

Family Friendly New Year’s Eve

BY KRISTA EHRET

N

e w Ye ar’s Eve is a hostess’s favorite night of the year. It’s the ultimate party opportunity.

While there are numerous activities to attend in and around town, sometimes the best option is throwing your own soiree in the comfort of your own home. Depending on where you are in life, New Year’s Eve can morph into several different vibes from wild to family friendly. Personally, I am at a stage where the majority of my friends have at least one young child and more on the way. So, here are some tips for throwing an event that will be enjoyable for friends and families alike.

SEND OUT THE INVITES NOW! New Year’s is a sought after night and there will be several options competing for your guests’ attention.

If you’re looking for attendance, get the word out there today. I’m the ultimate advocate for paper invitations, but if you are reading this and still haven’t sent them out, you may resort to an E-Vite or a text blast.

SET THE EXPECTATIONS. However you choose to invite your guests, make sure they are aware of the type of party you are throwing.

Be upfront now that kids are invited so parents save the headache of attempting to be the 46 YOURSUMNER.COM | Holiday 2015

high bidder on the coveted babysitter. Will the attire be casual or cocktail festive? Will you have dancing or board games? One of the best ideas I’ve heard of, if you have a small group, is to invite everyone to stay the night and then have a PJ brunch on New Year’s Day. Traffic can be scary after the ball drops. This lets everyone relax and not worry about the post-party commute.

PLAN OUT ACTIVITIES. Take inventory of how many adults, how many children, and the age ranges of the children.

For younger kids, you may consider having your babysitter come for a few hours so the parents can enjoy themselves. For older ones, simply plan out some time for the kids to entertain themselves (movies, crafts, etc) and then incorporate some fun group games that everyone can participate in. You should also plan out a quiet area in the house so that babies and younger guests can go to bed when ready.

TO FEED OR NOT TO FEED. You have a couple of options when it comes to a New Year’s Party menu. You can have an earlier start time

and plan to provide dinner, or you can push the time back and just offer light snacks.

This is completely up to you. If you have a large age-range, I would skip any fancy fare and stick to an easy crowd pleaser such as pizza or a taco bar.

COCKTAILS AND MOCKTAILS. My group seems to always consist of at least one pregnant woman at any given time.

For their sake, and the kids’, make sure to offer sparkling grape juice or a yummy mocktail. Also purchase some of the plastic champagne glasses so the kids can feel fancy without the fear of breaking any glass. This night especially should feel like a celebration for all.

CHEESY PARTY FAVORS. Speaking of celebration, you should always have some fun party accessories on hand for when midnight hits. Party hats, horns, glow sticks, etc. The kids will love them and they make for some fun photo opps for the adults.

HAVE EVERYONE CREATE A RESOLUTION. There’s something about writing a resolution on paper that makes it feel more official. Provide custom printed paper that guests can take home to get their New Year off to a motivated start. I would avoid making everyone announce their resolution as you don’t want the vibe shifting from celebration to intervention. The kids will also enjoy being included in this. You can make theirs more fun by having them fill in the blanks of sentences such as: “A book I’d like to read is:”, “Something new I’d like to learn is:”, “I want to get better at:”, etc.

SOCIAL | Veterans Day Parade Story & Photography by Kimberly Allen People gathered to honor the Veterans who served our country and to show their American pride at the Veterans Day parade, which was hosted by the American Legion, in Gallatin. It started at the Calvin Short football field and went through town to the Gallatin High School parking lot. The American Legion was founded in 1919 and is the largest wartime veteran’s service organization in the United States. For more information about the Gallatin American Legion post please visit, www.americanlegionpost17gallatintn.org.

THE

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Tristian Cole, Hali Cook & Dallas Likens

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LIFESTYLE | From Our House to YOURS

Merry Mantels at Rose Mont

I

BY ANNA ROBERTSON

t is the time of year, where the garland and lights adorn homes. The holidays are a wonderful way to showcase one’s house with decor and personality. If you are looking for ideas on elegance, simple and timeless touches, then you must see Merry Mantels at Historic Rose Mont. The annual event, planned by and benefiting the Rose Mont Restoration Foundation, Inc., takes place at the Historic Rose Mont plantation house on the first Saturday in December and gives guests a glimpse into the Holiday decorations of the past. The home was built by Josephus Conn Guild in the 1830’s and is a blend of Greek Revival and Palladian architectural design.

We wanted to show you what the beautiful period home offered this year.

Here is a peek at this year’s Merry Mantels! For more information on Historic Rose Mont’s events, visit www.historicrosemont.org.

48 YOURSUMNER.COM | Holiday 2015

Photography by Kimberly Allen

Holiday 2015 | YOURSUMNERCOM 49

SOCIAL | Jingle Mingle

Story & Photography by Kimberly Allen In early November, the White House Chamber of Commerce held Jingle Mingle at White House Heritage Elementary School. Dozens of vendors set up tables with clothing, jewelry, books and local restaurants had food items for guests to sample. Professionals were on site doing massages, hair styling and even eyebrow threading. Kids were able to get a photo with Santa who also appeared at the event! The event is a way for Sumner County residents to shop local before heading to the mall for their Christmas shopping. For more information on this and future events, please visit www.whitehousechamber.org.

Ivan & Frances Aligada

Randa Zeiden & Dena Cook

Lynne Hutton-Smith

Barbara Elliott, Haley Elliott & Micki Johns

Grace Palmer

Brenda Bellar, Katherine & Daisy Bellar, Samantha & Bella Jones

Jessica Laveck & Emily Anderson

Diane Gresham & Jennifer Goostree

Custom Publishing & Integrated Marketing Services 436 Main Street | Suite 205 | Franklin, TN 37064 615.979.1548 | info@robertsonmediagroup.com

50 YOURSUMNER.COM | Holiday 2015

SOCIAL | Merry Mantels at Historic Rose Mont

is the difference

MICHELLE PAUL & REBECCA PENDERGRAST

Story & Photography by Kimberly Allen The 9th Annual Merry Mantels of Historic Rose Mont was held in early December at the historic mansion in Gallatin. The Rose Mont Restoration Foundation hosts this annual event every winter. During the annual affair guests mingled and enjoyed hors d’oeuvres and fine wine. As the title suggests, the mantels in each room of the house were decorated in holiday style to set the mood for this festive evening!

For more information or to schedule a tour, please visit www.historicrosemont.org.

Knowledge

T. 615.828.0822 | michelle.paul@coldwellbanker.com T. 615.973.9291 | beccap@coldwellbanker.com T. 615.824.5920 | Coldwell Banker Lakeside Realtors

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MARKETING HOMES OF DISTINCTION Kenneth Thomson & Grace Tomkins Glenda Milliken, Don Vanatta & Paige Brown

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Previews™ is a highly exclusive marketing program of Coldwell Banker, represented by a select group of certified Previews Property Specialists

Residential Real Estate Coldwell Banker Lakeside Realtors 530 W Main Street Hendersonville, TN 37075 T. 615.824-5920 T. F. 800.933-5920 Each office is independently owned and operated

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Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each Office Is Independently Owned and Operated. Coldwell Banker Previews International and the Coldwell Banker Previews International logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC.

FEATURE| Come Fly With Me

The

Greenbrier

A Winter Wonderland

L

BY EMILY FORDICE

Located amidst the breathtaking mountains of West Virginia, The Greenbrier is a National Historic Landmark and world-class resort that has been welcoming guests from around the world since 1778. Today, The Greenbrier invites a new generation to come out and play. Enjoy relaxing pastimes, start treasured traditions, or set out on an amazing adventure together. The adventure awaiting during the holiday season is one that will enchant every member of your family from young to old. The Greenbrier, in all its historical glory, has always been a spectacular sight, but nothing compares to the splendor during the holiday season. Christmas at The Greenbrier,

also referred to as “60 Spectacular Days of Holiday Cheer,” is a magical winter wonderland that one must see to believe.

The 60 Spectacular Days of Holiday Cheer is a two month long holiday celebration at The Greenbrier.

The entire property is decorated and special entertainment, activities and events are planned for the season. The events, open to the public, begin with Thanksgiving and go through the New Year celebrations.

You can expect to see a lot of holiday cheer around the property, including 300+ Christmas trees, 2,000+ poinsettias, 1,000+ pounds of chocolate in the lobby display, and around 120,000 or more Christmas lights. The Greenbrier begins setting it’s holiday décor by the first of November and continues throughout the month of January.

THE GREENBRIER 300 W. Main Street, White Sulphur Springs, WV 24986 (855) 453-4858 | www.greenbrier.com

Greenbrier, also referred to as “60 Spectacular Days of Holiday Cheer” is a magical winter wonderland that one must see to believe.

There is no better time to visit than during the holiday season. While many may associate the holidays with staying at home, it is also a perfect time to take a family vacation while the kids are out of school. With about 710 rooms, including 33 suites and 96 guest and estate homes, The Greenbrier is sure to accommodate any size gathering.

There are many activities offered during the holiday season to keep your family busy. From ice skating, to nightly holiday movies and photographs with Santa, the Greenbrier is an ideal place for families with children of all ages. The Greenbrier provides an assortment of activities for the adults as well, including their world-renowned mineral spa, casino, gold course, and high-end retail.

After taking a look at the holiday celebration at The Greenbrier it is clear there is no where else like it in the country. For a magical family Christmas, or alone with a loved one, The Greenbrier is your ultimate holiday destination. Book your flight and get a room, this year you’re going to Christmas at The Greenbrier.

SOCIAL | Goodlettsville Tree Lighting and Christmas Parade

Story & Photography by Kimberly Allen The City of Goodlettsville kicked off the holiday season with its annual Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony on December 5th. Families from all around gathered together to see the lighting of the tree at City Hall and a performance from The Men of Harmony Barbershop Chorus. The festivities then moved on to the parade, which featured Christmas themed floats from local residents and business owners, antique cars, the school marching band, and much more. Free candy was given out to the children and the holiday spirit was definitely in the air! For more information, please visit www.cityofgoodlettsville.org.

The Men of Harmony Barbershop Chorus

Gift, Tamanda & Xavier Bondwe, Linda & Diana Lole

Ashley, Mary Anne & Jeff Kelton

Harper & Carter Baskins, Rebecca Sanders & Callie Baskins

Kerry, Julie & Lauren High

Cassidy Moore & Savannah Grace

Maranda Willis, Craig Fessenden & Mariea Hall

Bill & Frances Bennett

Pam & Jerry Franck

Alissa Abeler & Hannah Smith

Ellie, Amanda, Charlie, & Russell Mundy

YS MONTHLY | Ms. Social Grace

Ms. Social Grace’s Guide to Holiday Gift-Giving Giving is good for the soul, but, sometimes the “rules” can make giving exhausting. Here is a little food for thought during this giving time of year. Perhaps these ideas will make the holiday season a little more fun.

Q: Should you give a gift to the boss?

Ms. SG: Rule of thumb, no gift for the boss. It could look like you are trying to gain favor or simply trying to draw attention to yourself. If you feel you need to acknowledge a gift or bonus received from your boss, write a thank you note.

If your co-workers agree a gift is in order, consider a group gift.

Q: Should we give gifts to all of the children in our child’s class?

Ms. SG: If a gift is given, make the gift very modest and each the same. If you are only giving to your child’s “bff” then do it discreetly so that others don’t feel left out.

Q: What about gifts of food or wine? I’m concerned about food allergies, or if a recipient is in recovery or of a faith that doesn’t permit alcohol.

Ms. SG: Most people who abstain (for whatever reason) know how to handle it.

However, if you don’t know a person well, go another route. Regarding food, if you aren’t sure about allergies, just write up the recipe to go along with the gift. Better safe than sorry.

If you are still concerned, opt for a beautiful candle or food gifts used for cooking.

Q: I’ve received a gift from someone that I didn’t expect to exchange gifts with this year.

Do I need to buy something to reciprocate?

Ms. SG: No, just focus on your gratitude upon receiving an unexpected gift. This

unexpected generosity doesn’t have to be reciprocal, but it does need to be acknowledged and appreciated.

Q: When buying gifts for our friends or our children’s friends, do we need to spend more each time we give a gift?

Ms. SG: No, stay within your budget. When you think about your gift, choose something from the heart, give it with kindness and, of course, present it beautifully wrapped. Don’t judge your gift by how much you did or didn’t spend – know your intentions. Please don’t feel like you have to compete because someone else decided to do so.

Etiquette surrounding gift-giving is about being gracious when giving and showing your gratitude when receiving.

Ms. Social Grace uses several resources including the etiquette defining tomes of Miss Manners as a reference for all responses regarding appropriate behavior. You can get advice on questions of etiquette by writing to Ms. Social Grace at AskMs.SocialGrace@yourwilliamson.com.

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COMMUNITY | YOUR Community Partner

A HELPING HAND A Women’s Domestic Violence Shelter Fills a Community’s Need

BY ANNA ROBERTSON

D

esneige VanCleve grew up with single parents; her father until she was 13 years old and then her mother until high school graduation. She says that while growing up, it was very difficult to make ends meet and her living conditions were often unstable.

“Many years later, I felt the Lord calling me to serve impoverished families, specifically single mothers. I had been working at Long Hollow Baptist Church as the Benevolence Coordinator and that is when I began to realize that Sumner County was under-resourced for families experiencing homelessness, most of which were single mothers. It required them transplanting to Davidson County to find any help in most cases if that was even possible,” she explains.

Desneige’s calling began to form into a reality with hard work, dedication and help from the community, including Eddie Phillips of Phillips Builders who helped, along with The Memorial Foundation and the Garrett family to open the doors of the ministry. “Only God could make the connections that were made, have everything work out as smoothly as it did, and as quickly as it did. Now, I get to be a part of his work on a regular basis. It’s astounding,” she says.

“The shelter officially opened and began accepting families in late July 2015. At first, we wanted to be able to offer our long term financial recovery program to three whole families while also offering transitional shelter for those families only needing a couple of weeks to transition from one situation to another. However, we realized within four months that the need for long-term financial recovery far

58 YOURSUMNER.COM | Holiday 2015

playing, peer counseling, financial literacy training, advanced office computer training, etc. Many of our women get professional counseling and parental counseling from local partners like The Babb Center and Lifeworks. Volunteers help in many different ways including leading scripture studies, interacting with the children, leading the computer training, and whatever else they can do to bless the families at Grace Place.”

I felt the Lord calling me to serve impoverished families, specifically single mothers. outweighed the need for transitional shelter in Sumner County,” she explains. “We are now helping five families at a time with our long-term program. I say long term because these families can be in our program for up to nine months. We really want to equip them with everything necessary to make it on their own when they leave and never encounter homelessness again. Some of our services include job training, interview role-

Running the shelter takes assistance from the community. Desneige says that they are a 100% privately supported ministry and that they rely solely on charitable contributions from individuals and a grant from the Memorial Foundation. “We do not receive any state or federal assistance. Donation requests are for any household cleaning supplies, toiletries, and personal hygiene items. We try to keep these types of needs posted and up to date on social media.”

“To know that the community is wrapping its arms around this ministry gives us more hope each day and drives us on. Our mothers, when they see what strangers have done just to bless them, to meet the simplest need.... it brings tears to their eyes and renews their faith in countless ways.”

Grace Place Ministry, Inc. Office: 615-881-3976 Cell: 615-852-0321 www.graceplaceministryinc.org

SOCIAL | Women of Abstraction CONCERTS | RESTAURANT | PRIVATE EVENTS | WINERY

Story & Photography by Kimberly Allen Hendersonville Arts Council is a non-profit, community arts service promoting the cultural development of Hendersonville and the surrounding communities. Early this November, they held the reception for the Women of Abstraction art exhibit. The exhibit, curated by Sue Mulcahy, will run through January 2016 and features works from artists Beth Boquel, Jane Braddock, Carol Mode, Sue Mulcahy, Eva Sochorova, and Doris Wasserman. For more information about this exhibit and other events visit, www. hendersonvillearts.org.

EARLY AND LATE SHOWS

NEW YEAR’S EVE with

M A RT Y ST UA RT AND HIS FABULOUS SUPERLATIVES

Delilah Cohn & Sharon Charney

Jane Braddock

Natalie Bullion, Mimi Gerber & Rebecca Gerber

Doris Wasserman

Erica Briley & Abby Kite

Sue Mulcahy

GIFT Pallu Reddy & Ping Whittaker

Stephanie Bonovich, Andy Schookhoff & Deborah Smith

CARDS Holiday 2015 | YOURSUMNERCOM 59

VINOFILE MEMBERSHIPS

LIFESTYLE | Styling YOUR Everyday

Snowy Diorama

For more DIY ideas, check out StylingMyEveryday.com

Create a Winter Wonderland in a Jar

BY KATIE JACOBS

C

apture the season under glass with these mini wintry worlds that combine the cuteness of snow globes with the beauty of bell-jar terrariums.

I’m always looking for new and creative ways to decorate for the holidays without purchasing all-new decorations each year.

This fun DIY project utilizes your favorite Christmas decor in snowy scenes under glass.

This Pinterest worthy project is super simple (not to mention affordable) to create at home. Start by collecting a variety of jars you want to use to create your display—everything from vintage ball jars, hurricanes (like these hand blown beauties from The Barn Door Co.), and decorative glass bell-jars will work. Don’t think you have to break the bank either; cleaned recycled jelly jars and mason jars would be just as adorable.

Next, choose the contents for your wintery scenes. It seems that glittery Christmas figurines are all the rage.

Snowmen, Santas, angels and trees covered in glitter line the shelves of all the stores. Take advantage of the trend—they look beautiful under glass. Or, even better, showcase some of your own favorite Christmas ornaments, trinkets and family heirlooms. A handmade ornament displayed under glass automatically feels special.

Finally, construct your snowy scenes by adding faux snow (or salt) to each jar.

Display your chosen Christmas decor in each, adding brush trees, candy canes, and small ornaments in each to help fill the space. Teeny sleds, animals, and trees can be found at craft stores in the doll house section for little expense and help make these wintery scenes undeniably charming.

Display your creations down the center of a dinning table, on a kitchen island or entry table. Use cake stands to create varying heights and interrogate candles in votives and additional jars to help add a little more sparkle.

Your children will be in awe of the snow-globe-like scenes and guests will love admiring the personality of each winter wonderland that is both playful and elegant.

Jars from The Barn Door Co. Holiday 2015 | YOURSUMNERCOM 61

SOCIAL | Portland Christmas Parade

Story & Photography by Cassie Thompson Residents of Portland headed out to Main Street on December 5th to attend the annual Portland Christmas Parade. This year’s theme was Magical Memories on Main Street. Attendees who headed to the event before the parade had the chance to partake in many fun Christmas themed activities such as, cookie decorating, meeting with Santa and Christmas crafts. The parade began as darkness fell and there were many creative floats to see. It may have been chilly out, but that did not stop the residents of Portland from supporting their community and attending the fun parade.

Kya Clark & Gavin McGuire

Christabella Holt

Emmy Sims, Cherie Humphrey, Jaxon Humphrey, Erin Sims & Carly Humphrey

Patrick, Jackie, & Joslynn Jilg

Hunter Beightol & Joshua Hodge

Abbigail, Kelsie, Dale & Tayson Escue

Karissa, Kyle, Kalea & Denise Perdue

Adalynn Barie

Colby Henley with Santa Claus

Aaliyah Parrisj & Savannah Scruggs

Maverick & Michelle Houston

Brock Peak, Logan Calbert

Jayla Davis & Jazmyn Davis

Avery Long & Rene Bolmberg

Lilliauna, Alexis, Savannah & Brody White

62 YOURSUMNER.COM | Holiday 2015

Dale Fuentes & Micheal Rome

FEATURE | Holiday 101

1.

VINTAGE SPARROW JEWELRY BY ANDREA MOSS $30, Velvet Antler Boutique & Gifts

E D I U G GIFT 2.

KATE SPADE NEW YORK BUSINESS CARD HOLDER $30, Macy’s

4.

FITBIT CHARGE $129.99, Macy’s

3.

PENDLETON WOOL BLANKET $260, Macy’s

5.

STAR WARS SLIPPERS $46, Macy’s

6.

TENNESSEE DRY GIN $39, H Clark Distillery NEW WHISKEY $32, H Clark Distillery, Williamson County’s first distillery since Prohibition

7.

YOUR SUMNER MAGAZINE SUBSCRIPTION $50, Robertson Media Group

1. VELVET ANTLER BOUTIQUE & GIFTS 140 N Water Ave, Gallatin, TN | 615.500.7375 | velvetantlerboutique.com | 3, 4 & 5. MACY’S macys.com 6. H CLARK DISTILLERY 1557 Thompson’s Station Road W, Thompson’s Station, TN | 615.478.2191 | hclarkdistillery.com 7. ROBERTSON MEDIA GROUP 435 Main Street, Suite 205, Franklin, TN | 615.979.1548

COMMUNITY | YOUR Charitable Self

CHARITABLE GIVING for the Holidays

UNITED WAY OF SUMNER COUNTY

GRACE PLACE MINISTRY

United Way of Sumner County improves lives by mobilizing the caring power of the community to advance the common good.

They focus is on four key areas as building blocks to community and individual success: Education, Income, Health and Rebuilding Lives. United Way encourages giving, advocating and volunteering to help our community have the opportunities and resources to succeed. This holiday season, consider volunteering with United Way. Find out more at www.unitedwaysumner.org.

Grace Place Ministry helps to empower impoverished single mothers and their children to develop safe, healthy and independent lives in the local community. Grace Place seeks to bridge the gap between existing community resources and fill an enormous need for shelter and ongoing case management for struggling families. Above all, Grace Place is a place of sanctuary, opportunity and hope. The ministry is always in need of donations from monetary to cleaning supplies, toiletries, food, etc. Find out more about Grace Place Ministry and how you can help at www.graceplaceministryinc.org.

GOODWILL INDUSTRIES OF MIDDLE TENNESSEE Everyone has heard “Donate it to Goodwill� and that is exactly what you should do! When cleaning out the closets, home, decor, etc this season - take your items to Goodwill. So many utilize Goodwill shopping locations to buy a few to all household and clothing items. Goodwill provides employment and training opportunities for people who have disabilities and others who have trouble finding and keeping jobs. To find a donation center, store or learn more information, visit www.giveit2goodwill.org.

64 YOURSUMNER.COM | Holiday 2015

THE SALVATION ARMY ANGEL TREE PROGRAM

TOYS FOR TOTS

Along with the iconic Red Kettles and Bell Ringers, The Angel Tree program is one of The Salvation Army’s highest profile Christmas efforts. Angel Trees are located at CoolSprings Galleria, RiverGate, and The Mall at Green Hills with thousands of tags noting wish lists and necessities for children and seniors. Other partner programs that help the Angel Tree program are the Kroger Food Angel Program, which provides each family with a gift card to purchase Christmas Dinner, and the Daily’s Forgotten Angel Program, which provides extra toys to help us fill in for any angel that does not get adopted online or from one of the malls. For more information on how you can help, visit their webpage at www.nashville.salarmyangeltree.com.

The mission of the U. S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program is to collect new, unwrapped toys during October, November and December each year, and distribute those toys as Christmas gifts to less fortunate children in the community in which the campaign is conducted. The primary goal of Toys for Tots is to deliver, through the new toy at Christmas, a message of hope to less fortunate youngsters that will assist them in becoming responsible, productive, patriotic citizens. For more information on Toys for Tots, donating or where to drop off your toy donations, go to www.toysfortots.org.

MACY’S BELIEVE CAMPAIGN HUMANE SOCIETY OF SUMNER COUNTY Help animals this season by giving - or adopting!

- at the Humane Society of Sumner County. The Humane Society of Sumner County is a small, private, non-profit (501c3) service organization that promotes the humane treatment of abandoned, lost and displaced animals by providing temporary shelter, medical attention, vaccinations and sterilization to aid in population control. The Humane Society’s need donations for vet bills and the day to day care of the animals. They also are in need of volunteers at the shelter as well as various items. The Humane Society has a Wish List of items needed at www.sumnerhumane.org

If you aren’t familiar with Macy’s Believe Campaign, people of all ages are encouraged to participate by writing letters to Santa and/or forming letter-writing campaigns at schools, churches and other community organizations.

Macy’s will donate $1 to Make-A-Wish, up to $1 million, for every stamped letter to Santa delivered to Macy’s red Believe stations found in every Macy’s store throughout the country. The Believe Campaign runs from the beginning of through December 30th. Visit Macy’s Believe website at www.macys.com/believe for more information.

Holiday 2015 | YOURSUMNERCOM 65

LIFESTYLE | Read Between the Lines

y a d i l o H lling e t y r Sto A

fter the shopping is done, the cards are mailed, the decorations complete – perhaps there will be a moment to curl up by a fire and enjoy a good read. And what season has more options than the Christmas season? This is a well known and probably well worn list for most, but in case you forgot some of your childhood favorites – head to the nearest bookstore or library and pick up a BOOK this Christmas and READ!

A CHRISTMAS CAROL CHARLES DICKENS

Merry Christmas, everyone! “Bah!” said Scrooge. “Humbug!” With those famous words unfolds a tale that renews the joy and caring that are Christmas. Whether we read it aloud with our family and friends or open the pages on a chill winter evening to savor the story in solitude, Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol is a very special holiday experience. It is the one book that every year will warm our hearts with favorite memories of Ebenezer Scrooge, Tiny Tim, Bob Cratchit, and the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future—and will remind us with laughter and tears that the true Christmas spirit comes from giving with love.

RUDOLPH THE RED NOSED REINDEER ROBERT L. MAY

Every year at Christmastime, young and old alike fall under the finger-snapping, joy-inspiring spell of this song. Now fans of the most famous reindeer of them all can become acquainted with the original story of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, written in verse by his creator, Robert L. May, in 1939. This is an American holiday classic and is a book to treasure and to share, year after year.

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HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS DR. SEUSS

“Every Who down in Who-ville liked Christmas a lot . . . but the Grinch, who lived just north of Who-ville, did NOT!” Not since “’Twas the night before Christmas” has the beginning of a Christmas tale been so instantly recognizable. No holiday season is complete without the Grinch, Max, Cindy-Lou, and all the residents of Who-ville, in this heartwarming story about the effects of the Christmas spirit on even the smallest and coldest of hearts. Like mistletoe, candy canes, and caroling, the Grinch is a mainstay of the holidays, and his story is the perfect gift for young and old.

FROSTY THE SNOWMAN JACK ROLLINS

Frosty the snowman was a jolly, happy soul, with a corncob pipe and a button nose and two eyes made out of coal!

Everybody’s favorite snowman comes magically to life in the pages of this picture book. Featuring the festive spirit and rollicking lyrics of the original song, it’s the perfect read-aloud for this holiday season.

THE GIFT OF THE MAGI O.HENRY

O. Henry’s classic tale of the wisest gifts of Christmas, is itself a gift to share and treasure.

In a shabby New York flat, Della sobs as she counts the few coins she has saved to buy a Christmas present for her husband, Jim. A gift worthy of her devotion will require a great sacrifice: selling her long, beautiful hair. Jim, meanwhile, has made a sacrifice for Della that is no less difficult. As they exchange gifts on Christmas Eve, the discovery of what each has done fills them with despair, until they realize that the true gifts of Christmas can be found more readily in their humble apartment than in any fine store. O. Henry paints a masterly portrait of unfaltering love, a haven from the harsh world outside.

TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS CLEMENT CLARKE MOORE

A Visit from St. Nicholas”, more commonly known as “The Night Before Christmas” and “‍ ‘ Twas the Night Before Christmas” from its first line, is a poem first published anonymously in 1823, and later attributed to Clement Clarke Moore, who acknowledged authorship in 1837.

SOCIAL | Who-ville Spectacular Story & Photography by Kimberly Allen The 33rd Annual Hendersonville Christmas Parade was held this December 6th. The theme was “Who-ville Spectacular� based on the Dr. Seuss classic. Many colorful characters marched in the parade, including the Grinch himself!! It was a feast for the eyes and the ears with singing from the children and music from the school marching band. To learn more, please visit www.holidayfesttn.org.

Sofia, Kaleigh & Brandon Wojciechowski

Mariah, Jeremiah & Willie Jones

Sharon, Paul & Jacob Crotzer

Wynnelle, Kori & Bob Langford

Holiday 2015 | YOURSUMNERCOM 67

LIFESTYLE | Keeping Score

Hockey 101 Excerpted from “Hockey for Dummies”

I

f you’re playing hockey, or just want to understand the game, you need to know your way around the rink, how to shoot and pass the puck, what makes up a hockey penalty, the positions on a hockey team, and tips for getting prepared to hit the ice.

include: Butt ending; Checking from behind; Cross checking; Elbowing; Fighting; Hooking; Interference; Kneeing; Roughing; Slashing; Spearing; and Tripping.

An ice hockey team is made up of six players, each with a specific position and job. The job of offense is to score goals, and the defense is there to protect the goal. The following list describes each of the hockey positions: Goalie; Defensemen; Right wing; Left wing and Center

An official NHL (National Hockey League) rink is 200 feet long and 85 feet wide; an international competition rink is wider by 15 feet. The rink is divided by the red line, has two blue lines, five face-off circles, the goals and the creases.

Obviously, if you don’t score goals, you won’t win the hockey game. Make sure you’re passing and shooting the puck quickly and accurately to make the most of your hockey team’s offense. Here are a few guidelines to remember:

Don’t pass to the player; pass to where he or she is going. And try to put the puck on the blade of the recipient’s stick.

Don’t pass over two lines; that’s against the rules, and the official will blow the whistle.

Then he’ll call a face-off, most likely in your defensive zone. Whenever possible, keep your passes on the ice. But if you must elevate the puck to get it to your teammate, try to make it land flat on the ice so it’s easier to receive.

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In ice hockey, a penalty results in a player spending time in the penalty box. Ice hockey has three types of penalties: minor, major, and misconduct. The harsher the penalty, the harsher the punishment. Hockey penalties

Enjoy some hockey locally with the Nashville Predators: Here are some of their upcoming games and you can purchase tickets and learn more at predators.nhl.com.

DATE

VISITOR

HOME

TIME (CT)

THU DEC 10, 2015 SAT DEC 12, 2015 TUE DEC 15, 2015 THU DEC 17, 2015 SAT DEC 19, 2015 MON DEC 21, 2015 SAT DEC 26, 2015 MON DEC 28, 2015 TUE DEC 29, 2015 THU DEC 31, 2015

BLACKHAWKS AVALANCHE FLAMES PREDATORS WILD CANADIENS RED WINGS RANGERS PREDATORS PREDATORS

PREDATORS PREDATORS PREDATORS BLUES PREDATORS PREDATORS PREDATORS PREDATORS BLUES STARS

7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:30 PM

SAT JAN 2, 2016 TUE JAN 5, 2016 FRI JAN 8, 2016 SAT JAN 9, 2016 TUE JAN 12, 2016 THU JAN 14, 2016 SAT JAN 16, 2016 TUE JAN 19, 2016 THU JAN 21, 2016 SAT JAN 23, 2016 TUE JAN 26, 2016 WED JAN 27, 2016

PREDATORS JETS PREDATORS PREDATORS PREDATORS PREDATORS WILD BLACKHAWKS PREDATORS PREDATORS PREDATORS PREDATORS

HURRICANES PREDATORS AVALANCHE COYOTES BLACKHAWKS JETS PREDATORS PREDATORS JETS OILERS CANUCKS FLAMES

6:00 PM 7:00 PM 8:00 PM 8:00 PM 7:30 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 9:00 PM 9:00 PM 8:30 PM

THE STREETS OF INDIAN LAKE

SOCIAL | Gallatin Chamber Business After Hours Story & Photography by Kimberly Allen The Gallatin Chamber of Commerce held their Business After Hours event November 5th at Station Camp Children’s Clinic in Gallatin.

The gathering was a great networking opportunity for local business professionals. Great food and conversation made for a wonderful evening! For more information, please visit www.gallatintn.org.

MAKE

Family Entertainment

MOVIES

HOLIDAY MEMORIES

SHOPPING

Teresa Burke & Paige Brown

November 20 through December 23, 2015

Kim Myers & Courtney Snodgrass

Rachel, J.T. & Andy Reed

DINING

PRESENTED BY:

U.J. & Toni Egolum, Jo Ann Collins

Visit with Santa Claus!

Have family photos made!

Dayle Fergusson

For Santa Land SCHEDULE, visit our website or Facebook page.

SPONSORS:

Plus: • Breakfast with Santa at Barnes & Noble • Tea with Mrs. Claus • Songs, games & stories with your favorite characters!

Light Up Night!

Nov. 20

A DISTINCTIVELY SOUTHERN PLACE

Events are subject to change without notice.

Claire Rodgers, Zena Parks & Courtney Snodgrass

300 Indian Lake Boulevard Hendersonville, TN 37075 Vietnam Veterans & Indian Lake Boulevard

Holiday 2015 | YOURSUMNERCOM 69

WWW.STREETSOFINDIANLAKE.COM

LIFESTYLE | A Southern Gentleman Is...

SHOPPING for the Man who has Everything

By Jeffrey Gray

‘Tis my favorite season of the year. The holidays are here, and time seems to fly by even faster. The rounds of dinners, parties, and family gatherings are in full swing. I love the feelings of joy, remembrance and expectation that always come this time of year. I, myself, love the experience of being on the hunt for gifts for those I love. I pride myself on always finding the perfect present for those on my gift list. I think of it as a challenge and a race for the best. I have a great deal of fun with the whole process, but I know this is not everyone’s story, as stress and worry can quickly dim the experience.

So many feel too much pressure when shopping for gifts for that special person. Needless to say, it is especially hard for the “man who has everything.” Well, I am here to bring the joy back to the shopping experience. It is very simple to make a homerun with the best gift for the man you consider “just too hard to shop for.” Don’t worry. You don’t have to search the world over to find a wonderful gift for this man. The answers are all around you.

The “man who has everything,” does not truly have everything.

You may think he does, but he actually doesn’t. Most men have a natural, insatiable hunger for things - new toys, better versions of current toys, or simply more of their favorite things.

Understanding this can make finding a gift for him so much easier. Here are a few tips and suggestions from me - a man whom many consider to have everything and hard to shop for.

1

Buy the best of the best of whatever you are going to buy him. He may be spending top dollar on his accessories, but you can find many examples of the best in class of any item. Consider handmade ties and pocket squares, cashmere socks, or even bespoke boxer shorts.

Take it a step further by having the gift monogrammed, and it’ll be the bow on top of the perfect high-end gift.

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Buy something he would not buy for himself. The holiday season is not the time to pinch pennies. Most men find it hard

to spend $50-$60 on socks, but one feel of a cashmere sock and he’ll be hooked! These socks can change a life.

The feel and wear is incredible and definitely worth the price. A cashmere robe is a big hit, too. Another option is a nice razor or dopp kit. He will see it every morning and think of you. A gift idea that needs to come back into vogue is bespoke, personalized stationery.

Wonderful embossed or monogrammed paper note cards and envelopes make a wonderful gift and encourage the gentlemanly act of writing notes and letters.

3

Another direction to consider is buying something that he should not buy for himself. Cuff links, cuff links, cuff links!

These should always be given to the man and not purchased by the man. I have inherited and been given so many wonderful sets of cuff-links and enjoy remembering how I came to receive each of them and who gave them to me. It’s like wearing the start of a story as part of my attire. When someone compliments my cufflinks, I always love to share the story of their origin.

4

Another safe bet is to simply give him something that he truly loves. This may be his favorite bottle of bourbon or wine, a box of fine cigars, or tickets to his favorite event. He will appreciate this because it may broaden his horizons or simply expand his collection. Monogrammed bar ware is also a big hit. A wonderful monogrammed silver corkscrew, crystal decanter, leather table light for cigars, or a heavy silver ashtray to compliment the cigars.

Leather is always a great idea because it ages so well.

5

If none of these ideas appeal to you, then sometimes it’s good to introduce your man to your world. A gift certificate to your aesthetician for facial or a 90-minute massage at the spa can help him relax. Or, you can splurge on a weekend spa retreat. If all else fails, make a donation in his name to a local charity.

This is the season of giving and love. Don’t stress too much. Take a deep breath and relax. Never forget that no matter the gift you choose, it is the thought that counts. Just knowing that you have taken the time to pick out something personal means so much to the one receiving the gift. Make it personal, make it special, make it you. Always remember how lucky we are to live in such a great community with so many local merchants and artists all around – check them out. Happy holidays and good shopping! May you feel the spirit of the holidays now and always!

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Holiday 2015 | YOURSUMNERCOM 71

COMMUNITY | YOUR Kids

Making the Most of the Holidays with Your Children T

BY GINGER JONES

he holidays are a favorite time of year for many. Having all of the family together, seeing friends you haven’t in a long time, delicious treats and beautiful weather are just a few of the things that make this time of year so special. With all the joy and business can sometimes come a bit of seasonal stress - here’s how to avoid that, and keep the holidays fun for the whole family.

PLAN AHEAD. It definitely sounds simple, but isn’t always obvious to everyone or, by the time you realize it would help, it’s too late and you’re in the thick of it. Get everything written down or on a calendar, know when you need to have things bought (gifts, ingredients for food) and time out extra fun activities for the kids, like working on an advent calendar together or making fun treats. It may seem silly to plan fun holiday activities in advance, but they’re definitely something you don’t want to slip through the cracks.

Knowing when you’re going to do them can make it easier to not push them aside for things that seem more important in the moment.

MAKE YOUR KIDS ACTIVE PARTICIPANTS IN EVERYTHING YOU DO THIS SEASON. An extra set of hands or two is never a bad thing, and you can always spin a chore to make it fun for all. Let them pick out the treats, help gather a Christmas-time donation, or pick a few fun holiday outings.

They’ll want to feel like they’re important (because they are!) and an integral part of making sure this holiday season is the best yet.

PRIORITIZE. There are just some things that can be dealt with when the holidays are Jones Therapy Services, LLC 615.614.8833 508 Autumn Springs Court, Suite 1A Franklin, TN 37067 www.jonestherapyservices.com

72 YOURSUMNER.COM | Holiday 2015

over. Struggles at work or at home can be forgotten for a little while, and you can just enjoy your time. If there are really pressing things you don’t want crashing down on you after the holidays, make a plan of action for them. Take things one step at a time, and set aside what you can for things that are more important during this time of year.

Whatever you do, just remember that the most important thing is making memories for you and your family, however you choose to do that. It can be as simple as watching a movie or as much of a production as decorating the house and heading to a tree farm.

Cherish the time; you won’t regret focusing on the kids this and every holiday season.

COMMUNITY | YOUR Education

SUMNER COUNTY SCHOOL SCHEDULE Thurs-Fri, December 17-18, 2015 Exam Days Friday, December 18, 2015 Last day prior to Winter Break abbreviated day for students End 1st term 2nd nine weeks End of 1st term Mon-Thurs, Dec 21-Jan 01, 2016 Winter Break Monday, January 04, 2016 Administrative Day #4 for teachers (no students) Tuesday, January 05, 2016 First day for students following Winter Break Monday, January 18, 2016 Professional Development Day #3 for teachers (no students) Monday, February 15, 2016 Professional Development Day #4 for teachers (no students) Tuesday, February 16, 2016 Stockpiled Day-may be converted to regular instruction day upon need (no students, Parent Conferences) Tuesday, March 01, 2016 Professional Development Day option for teachers (no students) (at each school) Friday, March 11, 2016 End 2nd term 1st nine weeks Monday, March 14, 2016 Begin 2nd term 2nd nine weeks Thursday, March 24, 2016 Professional Development Day option for teachers (no students) (at each school) Fri-Fri, Mar 25-Apr 01, 2016 Spring Break Friday, April 15, 2016 Kindergarten registration for incoming students for 2016.17SY (Scheduled at each school with K) Wed-Thur, May 25-26, 2016 Exam Days Friday, May 27, 2016 Administrative Day #5 for teachers (no students) Saturday, May 28, 2016 Report Card Day abbreviated day for students End 2nd term 2nd nine weeks End of 2nd term End of School Year Monday, May 30, 2016 Memorial Day-- Central Office closed

Holiday 2015 | YOURSUMNERCOM 73

YS MONTHLY | Sumner County Did You Know?

DID YOU KNOW? FUN CHRISTMAS TRIVIA: In A.D. 350, Pope Julius I, bishop of Rome, proclaimed December 25 the official celebration date for the birthday of Christ.

Each year there are approximately 20,000 “rent-aSantas” across the United States. “Rent-a-Santas” usually undergo seasonal training on how to maintain a jolly attitude under pressure from the public. They also receive practical advice, such as not accepting money from parents while children are looking and avoiding garlic, onions, or beans for lunch.

Christmas purchases account for 1/6 of all retail sales in the U.S.

It is estimated that the single “White Christmas”

by Irving Berlin is the best selling single of all time, with over 100 million sales worldwide.

Alabama was the first state in the United States to officially recognize Christmas in 1836 although Christmas wasn’t declared an official holiday in the United States until June 26, 1870.c Oklahoma was the last U.S. state to declare Christmas a legal holiday, in 1907.

A DISTINCTIVELY SOUTHERN PLACE

You won’t want to miss our next issue featuring our 2016 Bridal Guide, the Holiday Party 74 YOURSUMNER.COM | Holiday Recap, 2015 and New Year, New You

Content Deadline: January 5th Ad Space Deadline: January 10th For more information, to place content or to reserve ad space contact info@yoursumner.com.

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