Your Williamson December 2015

WINE DOWN MAIN STREET

AMERICAN GIRL DOLL FASHION SHOW

TAKE THE CAKE

A DISTINCTIVELY SOUTHERN PLACE DECEMBER 2015

HOLIDAY SPLENDOR

Fashion at the Belmont Mansion

THE GREENBRIER

A Winter Wonderland

AT HOME WITH SANTA

and Mrs. Claus

Your Guide to ALL THINGS HOLIDAY!

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YOUR WILLIAMSON | December 2015 . VOL IV-XLVII

FEATURES 21 Fashionable YOU Holiday Splendor at the Belmont Mansion

27 YOUR Health & Wellness New Year, New YOU!

48 From Our House to YOURS

At Home with Santa & Mrs. Claus

72 Holiday Gift Guide Shop ‘Til YOU Drop

46 Holiday 101

Combining Homes for the Holidays

WINE DOWN MAIN STREET

AMERICAN GIRL DOLL FASHION SHOW

TAKE THE CAKE

A DISTINCTIVELY SOUTHERN PLACE DECEMBER 2015

HOLIDAY SPLENDOR

Fashion at the Belmont Mansion

THE GREENBRIER

COVER PROFILE Our December issue features beautiful fashion amidst the splendor and elegance of the historic Belmont Mansion in Nashville, decorated for the holiday season.

A Winter Wonderland

AT HOME WITH SANTA

Fashion courtesy of Gus Mayer, Green Hills and Street Tuxedo, Cool Springs.

and Mrs. Claus

Your Guide to ALL THINGS HOLIDAY!

Photography by Andrea Davis, Styled by Anna Robertson

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YOUR WILLIAMSON | December 2015 . VOL IV-XLVII

43

58

66

TABLE OF CONTENTS YOUR Social

YOUR Community

16 Wine Down Main Street 19 An Evening With Friends 20 Bal d’Hiver Patrons Party 26 Komen Race for the Cure 29 Viva la Diva Run 32 Williamson Inc. Annual Meeting 37 Waltrip Brothers’ Champions Dinner 41 Hope Grows 10th Anniversary 42 Harvesting Hearts Fall Festival 53 Franklin Veterans Day Parade 56 WCAR Installation Banquet 60 Hats Off to High Hopes 65 Zombie Prom 68 Harpeth True Value Holiday Open House 76 Spring Hill Mayor’s Ball 77 Blue & Gray Days 80 Pumpkinfest 84 Take the Cake 85 Kris Kringle Kar Klassic 89 Martin Masters Fine Art Show 95 American Girl Fashion Show 96 YOUR Williamson November Mixer

30 YOUR Community Partner ‘Tis the Season of Compassion 58 In YOUR Backyard Homes for the Holidays 70 Days Gone By Reflecting on Franklin’s Christmas Past 82 A Southern Gentleman Is with Danny Anderson 94 YOUR Kids Making the most of the Holidays

with Your Children

97 YOUR Education 2016 Williamson County Schools Calendar YOUR Monthly 10 14 64 40 98

Letter from the Publisher YOUR Social Secretary Ms. Social Grace YOUR Bone Vivant Atticus WC Did YOU Know?

YOUR Lifestyle

18

28

43

Beauty Junkie

with Julie Jorgensen

YOUR Best Self with Connie Haley

Eat, Drink & Be Merry with Miss Daisy King

54

62

66

78

82

62

66

87

88

90

Interior Thinking

with Eric Ross Interiors

The Lady Entertains

with Krista Ehret

Styling YOUR Everyday with Katie Jacobs

Keeping Score Hockey 101

A Southern Gentleman Is with Eric Ross Interiors

The Lady Entertains

with Krista Ehret

Styling YOUR Everyday with Katie Jacobs

Keeping Score Hockey 101

Read Between the Lines

Holiday Storytelling

5 Sense Living

with Lauryn Gilliam

YOUR Business 34 Welcome to YOUR New Business!

36 It’s YOUR Business with Wheelhouse Marketing 38 SCOOP YOU in the News 40 We’re in the Money How to Not Break the Bank This Holiday 52 YOUR Real Estate with the WCAR

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

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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

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Nashville symphoNy & Chorus

DECEMBER 6

DECEMBER 17

615.687.6400

to

20

DECEMBER 31

NashvilleSymphony.org

YOUR WILLIAMSON | Credits

Shelly Robertson Birdsong

Johnny Birdsong

Anna Robertson

Andrea Davis

Emily Fordice

Carter Stough

Ron Cheatham

PRESIDENT

VICE PRESIDENT MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS

MANAGING EDITOR

DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT CONSULTANT

VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS

Adam Sanner

Rachel Weishaupt

PHOTOGRAPHER

PHOTOGRAPHER

CEO & PUBLISHER

Tracey Starck CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Caitlin Daschner CREATIVE CONTENT EDITOR

Annie Osteen COMMUNITY EDITOR

Krista Ehret LIFESTYLE EDITOR

YOUR Williamson is a Franklin, TN 37064 publication of: Office: 615.979.1548 Robertson Media Group, LLC www.yourwilliamson.com 436 Main Street, Suite 205 Please send all content & coverage requests to: info@yourwilliamson.com

K York HEAD PHOTOGRAPHER

Steve Absher, Account Exec.

Kingery Printing Company YOUR Printing Partner

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

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YW 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!

YOUR WILLIAMSON | 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!

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.

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.

12 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | December 2015

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..

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.

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.

Lauryn Gilliam Lauryn Gilliam is a seeker of fun, student of life and lover of exploring mindful ways to enlist the 5 senses in all her experiences.

Join her in every issue as she takes us on a sensory tour of all things arts, culture and dining.

Margie Thessin Franklin on Foot owner and Williamson County historian. Author of Ghosts of Franklin, Tennessee’s Most Haunted Town and Lizzie’s War. Margie is seen throughout Franklin giving historical walking, biking and southern food tours.

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.

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.

Danny Anderson Danny Anderson is a Broker with Parks Realty on Main Street in downtown Franklin.

Danny will be the new contributing columnist for our monthly A Southern Gentleman Is…musings, advice, tips and tales for the Gentlemen (and ladies) of Williamson County.

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YW MONTHLY | Social Secretary

YOUR SOCIAL SECRETARY: DECEMBER 12 & 13

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 YourWilliamson.com for more events.

DECEMBER 15

Homes for the Holidays Various Franklin Locations 5pm-8:30pm

First Tennessee Bank presents Homes for the Holidays Candlelight Tour benefiting Bridges Domestic Violence Center and historic preservation. Visitors will get an inside look into several Franklin homes and churches and enjoy the various styles of holiday decorations that exhibit the balance between historic charm and modern allure. For more information and tickets, go to www.bridgesdvc.org.

YOUR Williamson Holiday Party

Studio Tenn’s Holiday Concert

Landmark Community Bank 5pm-7pm

The Factory at Franklin Jamison Hall

Join us to celebrate the season at our Holiday Party hosted

by Landmark Community Bank in Downtown Franklin! We will enjoy tasty treats, refreshments and live music. Guests will also have the opportunity to win door prizes! For more information, visit www.yourwilliamson.com.

THE HOLIDAYS ARE A GREAT TIME FOR A WALKING TOUR! Ghosts of Chrismas Past Tours Call 615.400.3808 for info and reservations www.FranklinOnFoot.com anklinonfoot@gmail.com

Southern Style Food Tours

DECEMBER 15 & 16

Studio Tenn is throwing a holiday party and you’re invited! This brand new concert-style variety show will feature company members and guest performers alike giving all your favorite seasonal songs the Studio Tenn treatment. From traditional carols through big band, they will be serving up slices of Christmas nostalgia from every era. www.studiotenn.com.

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SOCIAL | Wine Down Main Street Sponsored Event

Story & Photography by K. York The 15th annual Wine Down Main Street drew hundreds to downtown Franklin. Over 30 food vendors lined the streets offering scrumptious foods, and over 170 varieties of wine and beer were poured inside participating businesses.

The Red House rocked the VIP’s with the sounds of Everyday People and offered more delicious food and tasty drinks. The event benefited The Boys & Girls Club of Middle Tennessee. For more information, visit www.bgca.org.

Ella & Julie Long, Heather Kellow & Sloane Sharpe

Marianne Freitag, Debbie Davis, Julie Masterman & Pam Stephens

Elena Chaves & Jed Fleming

Tom Wiese, Damian Serong, Amy Marcum, Kris Wiese, Kristin Callahan & Gabee Dickinson

Gina & Dan Mendoza, Amy Lindholm & Jennifer Leonard

Carol & Rick Crosby, Robert Blair, Byron & Lisa Carson 16 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | December 2015

Hunter Sternenberg & Madison Heithcock

Jon & Bethany Miller

Rae Becker & Rozanne Jackson

Emily Kendall, Claire & Tyler Crowell

Matt Konyn & Cameron Carothers

Mark & Brooke Vane, Becky & Heath Clark

Jeff McGruder, Lydia & Tom Miller

Teresa Powers, Vicki Phillips & Aubree Parker

William Smithson, R.J. Stillwell, Sam Tamburin & Dan Jerdigan

Shawna Cohen & Matthew Gordon

Nicole More & Diana Taub

Jill Tomalty & Judy Blair

Vino Con & Friends

Clay & Tatum Perry, Ann Marie Hollis, Ali & Joe Tanner

Craven Thomas & Cathy Harper

December 2015 | YOURWILLIAMSON.COM 17

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

18 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | December 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 | An Evening With Friends Story by Andrea Davis & Photography by Adam Sanner In early November, the Loveless Barn in Nashville provided its country chic atmosphere for An Evening With Friends. Guests were entertained by some of Music City’s finest and had their fill of good ol’ Southern food from the Loveless Cafe. Co-chairs, Jennifer Blankenship and Vera Lee, helped to make this annual event another huge success. An Evening With Friends benefits Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, a freestanding hospital dedicated to serving only children.

Jennifer Blankenship, Chris & Vera Lee

Jackson & Anna Moran

Rosemary & Bart VerHulst

Alissa Bodart, Dorothy Curtis & Terry McConnell

Cindy Comperry, Carolyn Thombs & Elizabeth Pergande

Emmy Hickman & Carter Smith

Jamie & Millicent Vance, Jessica & Mark Horne

Kim Sigmund, Jenny & David Lewis

SOCIAL | Bal d’Hiver Patrons Party

Story & Photography by K. York The Kappa Alpha Theta Nashville Alumnae Chapter’s Bal d’ Hiver, the oldest charity ball in Nashville, was created to recognize women who make a difference in the communities where they live. The event celebrated its 67th year in November at Loews Vanderbilt Hotel.

To kick off the festivities, the Patrons’ Evening was held on October 29th at the home of Vicki and Kerry McCluggage in Belle Meade. For more information, please visit www.nashvillethetas.org.

Amy Lee Bartlett & Amy Colton

Kerry McCluggage, Sandra & Larry Lipman

Jennie Bowman, Mike & Anne Saint, Allison Thompson & Robert Baum

Chuck & Susan Blackard

Mary Jo & Steve Shankle

David Kloeppel, Vince Dreffs & Ridley Wills

Britt Anderson & Vicki McCluggage

This Christmas, Give the Gift of Music!

Shop Local and Shop Shuff’s, For All Your Musical Needs!

Shuff’s Piano Showroom 127 2nd Ave North Historic Downtown Franklin 615.261.8888 Shuff’s Music Store 118 3rd Ave North Historic Downtown Franklin 615.790.6139

LIFESTYLE | 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.

SOCIAL | Komen Race for the Cure Sponsored Event

Story & Photography by Rachel Weishaupt Breast cancer survivors along with family, friends, competitive runners and supporters, raced to end breast cancer at the annual Susan G. Komen run in Maryland Farms. Held during Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, Race for the Cure is one of Komen’s largest annual fundraisers, which helps support local screenings, treatment and education. The event included a 5K run, 1K fun walk, games for children, Zumba, face painting and numerous corporate sponsor booths. Kroger was the main presenting sponsor of the event which brings over 20,000 people to Maryland Farms. Additional race information and ways to donate are available at www.komennashville.org.

Laura Maddox & Tammy Fleiscour

Brian & Joy Huffman

Yolanda Brown & Ashley Puckett

Sandy & Crystal Rogers

The Blessed Beyond Measure Team

Jonah, Jacklyne & Amy Parker

Delone Wood & Judith Barrom

Team Andrea 26 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | December 2015

The Breezy Hilltops Farm Team

Vivian Lavinskas & Iva Drummond

Angela Kupchik & Dee Ryerson

Shelbie Ely & Jeremy Hargett

FEATURE | YOUR Health & Wellness

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Clients build exceptional core strength, lengthen and shape their thighs, lift and tighten their seat, and sculpt lean muscle tone from head to toe while improving posture and flexibility. See results in as little as 10 classes, with each class burning up to 700 calories.

Are you looking to change your body and live healthier in 2016? If so, Studio Novo has got you covered!

Studio Novo offers one of the most unique and innovative workout methods in town and, in addition, to help you reach your goals, they are hosting a FIT challenge, staring on Monday, January 18th.

A BIT ABOUT THE WORKOUT: Studio Novo’s Megaformer™ workout offers the unique fusion of strength, core, cardio/circuit training and stretching into an intense 50-minute exercise experience. It is a high cardio and deep muscle workout, while also being low-impact on the joints. It’ results-driven, efficient and safe. This method is for everyone - men and women, young and old, beginners to professional athletes, fitness lovers, and even people who hate going to the gym. Everyone has something to gain (or lose!) from working out at Studio Novo!

Interested in the FIT challenge?: email novonashville@gmail.com for more information.

The first class is FREE! To redeem, follow the steps below:

We’re excited to introduce two new, additional barre class offerings: an extended Barre Stretch class featuring Yoga and our Barre Blast cardio-style class We also offer complimentary childcare. Use code “NEWYOU” and your first week is FREE! Neighborhood Barre 7010 Executive Center Dr. Ste. 102 | Brentwood, TN 37027 615-454-3785 | nashville@neighborhoodbarre.com www.neighborhoodbarrenashville.com

THE PURE BARRE In just 55 minutes you will achieve a full-body workout concentrating on the areas women struggle with the most: hips, thighs, seat, abdominals and arms. The Pure Barre technique is low-impact, protecting your joints by avoiding any bouncing or jumping. Each strength section of the workout is followed by a stretching section in order to create long, lean muscles without bulk. The technique works to defy gravity by tapering everything in and lifting it up!

New Client Special: 1 month of unlimited classes for $100.

Go to www.novonashville.com Click “Book a Class”, select appropriate studio (Nashville or Cool Springs)

Take 15 classes during the month of December and be entered to win a year of unlimited Pure Barre classes!

View schedule and sign up for the class of your choice by using “First Class Free” option.

Finish 2015 stronger than you started!

Studio Novo Cool Springs: 9040 Carothers Pkwy, #103 Franklin, TN 37067

Pure Barre Brentwood 330 Franklin Road Suite 137a | Brentwood, TN 37027 brentwoodtn@purebarre.com | www.purebarre.com 615.278.8991 December 2015 | YOURWILLIAMSON.COM 27

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.

300 Celebration Circle, Franklin, TN 37067 615.567.3717 | www.fountainsfranklin.com

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.

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

28 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | December 2015

SOCIAL | Viva la Diva Run

Story & Photography by K. York FiftyForward presented the 5th annual Viva la Diva Run at Nissan North America campus in Cool Springs. The event supports health, wellness and safety programs for girls and women of all ages. There was a 5k with a 10k that followed. The proceeds of this event support the health and wellness programs offered by Fifty Forward.

Join the Y and receive a bounce back certificate worth half of your joining fee to use toward a Y program or service

Jennifer Joyce, Pam Augustin & Margaret Dunlap

Kristen & Josn Mermilliod

Blake Mayes, Summer & Kerri Hetzler, Madilyn Parker

GIVE YOURSELF THE GIFT OF STRESS RELIEF AND HEALTHY LIVING THIS HOLIDAY SEASON, AND WE’LL GIVE YOU THE GIFT OF A HEALTHIER NEW YEAR. When you join the Y between Nov. 27, 2015 and Jan. 2, 2016, we’ll provide you with a bounce back certificate good for half of your joining fee that can be redeemed for select YMCA programs or service, purchased Jan. 15-Feb. 29, 2016.

Visit the Y nearest you and join today! Learn more at ymcamidtn.org.

Mason Saffell, Hannah Moffitt, Kaitlyn Saffell & Erin Brady with Han Solo

Diva Wilkins & Kathleen High

GIVE A GIFT, GET A GIFT AT THE Y! Get a $5 bounce back certificate for every $25 you purchase in YMCA gift cards Jessica Forinash, Amy Smith, Jan Deike, Julie Chapman & Allison Key

Bounce back certificate may be redeemed for select YMCA programs or services Jan. 15-Feb. 29, 2016.

Our Mission: A worldwide charitable fellowship united by a common loyalty to Jesus Christ for the purpose of helping people grow in spirit, mind and body.

COMMUNITY | YOUR Community Partner

‘Tis the Season of

COMPASSION

BY ANNIE OSTEEN

T

he deadlines. The conference calls.

The overtime. Most of us have experienced it at one time or another.

We get caught up in the day-to-day duties of what companies need from us. It is what it is.

Certain companies, however, have distinct components that separate them from the pack during the holidays. A charitable ingredient that brings their company together to ultimately remind themselves of the essence of what the holiday season is truly all about.

MARS PETCARE US Mars Petcare US is the U.S. operations of the world’s largest pet care company at the privately-held Mars, Incorporated. Located here in Franklin, the company employs over 3,500 associates. Mars is responsible for brands such as Pedigree, Whiskas and Royal Canine.

Mars is a compassionate group and believes that giving back is a top priority, not just during the holiday season, but all year long as they give their associates the opportunity to volunteer and give back to the community in the form of paid time off. During the holiday season, Mars Petcare offers several options for its associates and their families to participate in the spirit of charity. The Make-a-Wish Foundation is near to the heart as a local employee’s son, Jaxen Ford, has continued to be a motivation to others with his message of bravery and hope and he has been sponsored through the Mars foundation for many years. For the entire month of December, a Mars Employee can “Elf a Desk,” which means that they can deploy a barrage of elves on a manager or co-workers desk. However, in order to participate, they must make a donation to the Make-a-Wish Foundation. For those that don’t like the idea of finding little elves all over their workspace, employees have the option to purchase Scrooge

Insurance to prevent that from happening.

Clever, very clever.

It seems that Mars Petcare has brought about so many important, lost principles back into the workplace. Not only has the company remembered that charity and giving back is what makes this world a better place, but they are helping one of their own team players. While going the extra mile, they incorporated the fun-aspect, which isn’t always thought about either and is usually welcomed greatly. It’s more than obvious that Mars Petcare, while taking care of pet needs all year long, hasn’t forgotten about other valuable needs along the way while making people smile and laugh in the process.

LEE COMPANY Lee Company, founded in 1944 by Leon Lee, is headquartered here in Williamson County, but has locations throughout Middle Tennessee, Huntsville and Bowling Green, Kentucky. Their advertising is recognizable and they have been a staple in our area for decades. During the holiday season, they are active in giving back. Two charities are particularly close to Lee Company’s focus.

First is The Isaiah 58 Project, which was created by the Servant Group International and Parish Presbyterian Church to provide gifts for children who have been displaced by the war and are currently living in the Xanke refugee camp in Iraq. It’s Isaiah 58 Project’s goal to provide 2,500 Christmas boxes with toiletries and presents for camp residents this year.

Lee Company is also a longtime supporter of Second Harvest Food Bank and has founded the Vans4Cans food drive. Throughout its history, the food drive has collected more than 170,000 pounds of food, which has provided more than 140,000 meals.

Lee Company wants to inspire people to take action to raise sensitivity about hunger issues in our community.

Participation simply consists of giving a donation of canned goods and other non-perishable items to your Lee Company technician during any service call. Their team distributes all contributions the week before Thanksgiving each year to the Second Harvest Food Bank in order to feed our hungry neighbors. The Lee Company provides various opportunities all year long for their employees to take part in different charity events but more needs certainly rise during November and December when they contribute, not only locally but internationally as well.

RAMSEY SOLUTIONS Dave Ramsey is an increasingly familiar name not only on a local level but a national and international level. He could quite honestly be the “go-to” guy for how to obtain financial stability in an unstable fiscal society. Ramsey Solutions began in 1992 to help those who were struggling with financial stress, after Dave Ramsey himself had been through it. There’s a multitude of programs within Ramsey Solutions, including Financial Peace University and The Dave Ramsey Show, which has helped thousands of people every year.

So what do Dave Ramsey and his team do during the holidays? Ramsey Solutions team members are given five days of ministry time that they can use to serve in the community. Many team members use this time, particularly during the holidays, because of the ample opportunities to serve the charity of their choice such as the Salvation Army, Operation Christmas Child, etc. In addition, Jamie Ellis, Senior Public Relations Coordinator for Ramsey Solutions says, “What an impact it would have on our community if everyone at the company brought in one toy!” Dave Ramsey and his team of more than 500 aspire to do things on a level that’s easy to understand, while also bringing inspiration and dedication to the issues that really matter, not only during the holiday season but all year long.

It goes without saying that our community is filled to the brim with hundreds of companies that serve with a grateful heart during the Christmas season each year.

We are blessed to live in an area where we can recognize that there is a need-a very large, overlooked adversity, outside of the Williamson County bubble-that needs to be embraced. Charity doesn’t have to start and stop with the holiday season and as many of these businesses have already demonstrated, it’s become a part of their culture to incorporate this standard throughout the entire year.

Winter Winter2016 2016 Bridal BridalGuide Guide Ad AdPlacement Placement Wedding WeddingStories Stories Bridal BridalBusiness Business&& Service ServiceAdvertorials Advertorials

SOCIAL | Williamson Inc. Annual Meeting Sponsored Event

Story & Photography by K. York The 2015 Williamson Inc. Annual Meeting was held at Jamison Hall at the Factory. President and Chief Executive Officer Matt Largen gave his State of the Chamber address and recognized the county’s economic growth, discussed future endeavors and praised volunteers for their hard work in moving Williamson County forward. Randy Boyd, Tennessee’s Department of Economic & Community Development Commissioner, delivered the keynote address and shared his goals for the state’s economic development and how it pertained to Williamson County. The Chamber also honored longtime employee and COO, Cindi Parmenter, for her many year’s of service to the Chamber.

Ken & Julie Nimmons, Adrian Baker

Matt Magallanes & Cherie Hammond

Nancy Conway, Heath & Becky Clark, Glen & Jill Casada

Bill Quaglia, Laura Kelly & Michael Cooper

Brittany Girton

Cindi Parmenter & Rob Ivy

Paula Cirulli Anne McGraw & Martha Harvey

Dennis Wagner & Gary Buchanan

Jordan Waldron & Emily Seivers

Brad Slayden, Mauri Lenderman, Brad Thompson & Gerald Belden

Martha Greenwood, DeeDee Scheibe & Molly Sohr

Dave Crouch, Mary Benson, Joey Hatch, Dennis Norvet, & Drew Rogers

Ann McGaw, Matt Largen, Olivia Bane & Paige Thompson

Kim Ferguson, Elizabeth Mefferd & Holly Curtiss

Gary Buchanan & Lisa Buchanan Baskin

Mindy Tate & Diane Giddens

Chuck Barber, Mike Alexander, Janet Smith, Brian Reeves & Greer Carlisle

Brook Johnson & Jamie Cox

Michael & Ann Frances Barker

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BUSINESS | Ribbon Cuttings

Ribbon Cuttings

Congratulations to these new Williamson County businesses and Chamber members!

Firm Foundation Fitness & Nutrition 301 Mallory Station Rd, Suite 123 Franklin, TN 37067

Triangle Tire North America, LLC 5106 Maryland Way Brentwood, TN 37027

Legacy Chiropractic 1556 W. McEwen Drive, Suite 130 Franklin, TN 37067

Civic Bank & Trust 215 Centerview Drive, Suite 105 Brentwood, TN 37027

Tennessee Foundation Services 8421 Horton Highway College Grove, TN 37046

Vanderbilt Bone & Joint Clinic & Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center’s Medical Oncology Clinic 1003 Reserve Blvd • Spring Hill, TN 37174

Elizabeth A. Russell Attorney at Law Johnston and Street, PLLC

Proudly serving my hometown in the areas of criminal and DUI defense, family law, estate planning, civil litigation, and bankruptcy. johnston & street, pllc 236 public square, suite 103 franklin, tennessee 37064

telephone: 615.791.1819 fax: 615.791.1418 www.johnstonandstreet.com

Let Us HeLp YoU tUrn YoUr MoneY Into

EVEN MORE Y

YoUr MoneY W

of

ou are never known by your account e guarantee you will notice our number. You are known as an difference the minute you walk in individual...and valued as a trusted our doors. For over 112 years, Tennessee e are proud partner in our growth and success Bank & Trust has built a long-standing to offer the most in Williamson County. We focus tradition in Williamson County on knowing our customers, their on service and respect for both aggressive saving goals and helping them strive to individuals and businesses. Our account interest reach them. Our success starts associates are the most experienced rates in the with your success. in the market, and we guarantee it — because we only hire the best. industry from rivately owned and a true up to community bank right here in e would be honored to your backyard, we have the resources customize a plan to achieve and flexibility to provide the service that your financial goals, and make your both you -- and your money deserve. money work as hard for you, as you do for it.

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BUSINESS | It’s YOUR Business

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

T

3009 Columbia Ave. Franklin,TN 37064 www.williamsonmemorial.com

615-794-2289

5239 Main St. Spring Hill,TN 37174 www.springhill-memorial.com

931-486-0059

plan ahead by calling our oFFice or visiting www.preplanning.com/williamsonmemorial www.preplannning.com/springhillmemorial

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: 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

SOCIAL | Waltrip Brothers’ Champions Dinner Story & Photography by K. York The 6th Annual Waltrip Brothers’ Champions Dinner was held at the Factory this fall. The fundraiser was a star-studded event with drivers and executives from NASCAR and the recording industry, professional athletes, celebrities, friends, family and fans. Grammy Award winning country music entertainer, Travis Tritt, performed and a silent and live auction featured autographed items from NASCAR drivers, celebrities and sports icons. The dinner along with a golf tournament raised money for Motor Racing Outreach, Feed the Children and the Byrnes Memorial Fund.

Michael Waltrip & Tamara Holder

Amanda & Ben Boyles

Brandi & Brooks Blackburn

Ben Boyles, Aaron Burns & Jack Kinney

Amy Terry, Stevie & Darrell Waltrip , Nick Terry

Meredith Burke, Shayna McLean & Alysha Williams

Jay Howard, Rick Hendrick & Bert Hensley

December 2015 | YOURWILLIAMSON.COM 37

BUSINESS | Scoop If you or your company has community or business news to share please send to info@yourwilliamson.com!

ROBERTSON MEDIA GROUP LAUNCHES SECOND PUBLICATION Robertson Media Group, LLC (RMG) launched the second of its community magazines, YOUR Sumner – A Distinctively Southern Place, in Sumner County, Tennessee in November. The new publication will mirror the style and content flavor of the existing YOUR Williamson publication, which has been in publication for nearly five years.

“This new location offers our company the opportunity to expand our brand of a high quality lifestyle-business-social and community magazines,” says Publisher and Founder, Shelly Robertson Birdsong. “We look forward to much success in this vibrant market north of Nashville, where there is much to do, heavy retail and commercial businesses and a wonderful history. The community has already embraced the product and welcomed us so warmly,” says Birdsong. RMG will continue to operate from their offices located on Main Street in Downtown Franklin and hope to expand into additional markets of Distinctively Southern Places in the coming year. To read the new issue of YOUR Sumner, go to www.yoursumner.com.

CALIFORNIA CLOSETS NASHVILLE TEAMS UP WITH DRESS FOR SUCCESS

MONROE CARELL JR CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL AT VANDERBILT TO RECEIVE DONATION FROM THE WESTHAVEN FOUNDATION In a follow up to this year’s tenth annual Franklin 4 The Cure Run and Concert 4 The Cure event, The Westhaven Foundation donated $120,000 to benefit Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt.

The Westhaven community hosted Franklin 4 The Cure; an all-day event which includes “Run 4 The Cure 5K Run Walk” and “Concert 4 The Cure.” All proceeds from both events were included in the donation to the Franklin 4 The Cure Discovery Grant supporting cancer research at Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt.

Bridgestone Americas, Comcast Xfinity and Nissan of Cool Springs were presenting sponsors of the year’s event. This year’s research will once again help lead to breakthrough discoveries in the fight against cancer. Findings from this preliminary research are dire to obtaining additional funding from the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and other federal agencies that grant millions every year to support further cancer research. For more info, visit www.westhaventn.com.

California Closets Nashville, the area’s leading provider of personalized closet systems and customized storage solutions for more than a decade, has teamed up with Dress for Success Nashville to participate in a national holiday donation drive.

Now through Thursday, Dec. 31, 2015, California Closets is accepting lightly new or gently worn shoes to donate to women in need through Dress for Success, a nonprofit that promotes the economic independence of disadvantaged women by providing professional attire, a network of support and career development tools to help them thrive in work and in life. Those who donate shoes will be given discounts when purchasing California Closets products. The company’s showroom is the drop-off location, located at 420 Cool Springs Boulevard, Suite 125, in Cool Springs. To learn more about the holiday shoe drive and the partnership with Dress for Success, visit the California Closets website at www.californiaclosets.com/ dressforsuccess.

SCOTT PETERSON ANNOUNCED AS CEO OF HEALTHSOUTH REHABILITATION HOSPITAL OF FRANKLIN Scott Peterson, MPA, has been named as the chief executive officer of the future HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Franklin. Scott comes to HealthSouth Franklin from nearby Vanderbilt Stallworth Rehabilitation Hospital, a joint venture between Vanderbilt University and Vanderbilt Health Services, LLC, and HealthSouth, where he has served as associate administrator since 2013. In his position as CEO, he will oversee all of the hospital¹s day-to-day operations as well as patient quality and care. Scott has served 10 of his 14 years of healthcare experience with HealthSouth. HealthSouth Franklin, a 40-bed inpatient physical rehabilitation hospital, is located at 1000 Physicians Way and scheduled to open in December 2015. It will serve patients who are recovering from conditions such as stroke and other neurological disorders, brain injury, spinal cord injury, amputation, complex orthopedic conditions, and cardiac and pulmonary conditions. The hospital is located at 1000 Physicians Way and on the Web at www.healthsouthfranklin.com.

38 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | December 2015

“TWINKLING TENNESSEE CHRISTMAS” DAZZLES GUESTS WITH NASHVILLE’S BEST DECORATED HOMES Gray Line of Tennessee is proud to partner with the Lotz House and present the seventh annual “Twinkling Tennessee Christmas,” one of Nashville’s most festive holiday traditions. In addition to touring some of Nashville and Franklin’s most beautiful and exquisitely-decorated holiday home exteriors, guests will also walk through the historic Lotz House in Franklin. Tours will run Dec. 1-30, with the exception of Dec. 6, 24 and 25 and will depart daily at 6:30pm.

The office address is 2416 Music Valley Drive, Ste. 102, Nashville, TN 37214. The cost is $32 for adults, and $15 for children ages 6-17. For reservations or more information, please call 615-883-5555, 1-800-251-1864 or book online at www.GrayLineTN.com.

Groups interested in making reservations may call 615-921-4427.

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.

40 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | December 2015

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.”

SOCIAL | Hope Grows 10th Anniversary Story & Photography by Anna Robertson The Hope Grows 10th Anniversary Celebration and Fundraiser took place in October at The Factory in Jamison Hall. The memorable event featured dinner, a silent auction and entertainment by illusionist, Brock Gill. Hope Grows benefits The Refuge Center for Counseling, a non-profit organization offering affordable, professional counseling services in order to empower, educate and support individuals, couples and families in need. The Hope Award was presented to Al Andrews, founder and director of Porter’s Call, for embodying the mission of The Refuge Center.

GIFT CERTIFICATES PERFECT FOR ANY OCCASION

Jordan Blackwood, Dustin & Deri Plummer

Jennifer Gillett & Amy Alexander

Emily Carroll & Kayse Martin

Leigh Bawcom & Linda Jackson

Christmas Eve 4pm - 10pm, Christmas 3pm - 9pm, New Years Eve and New Years Day 4pm - 11pm Laura & Eric Howell

Stephanie, Sam & Jack Ingram

Receive an additional card valued at 20% of purchase when you buy $500 or more in gift certificates.

Gift certificates can be purchased at either Sperry’s restaurant location, or online at www.sperrys.com

Lona Bailey, Diane Gray & Laura Deneen

(Reservations Recommended)

Cool Springs 650 Frazier Drive Franklin, TN 37067 615-778-9950

Belle Meade 5109 Harding Pike Nashville, TN 37205 615-353-0809

SOCIAL | Harvesting Hearts Fall Festival Story & Photography by K. York Hearts 2 Honduras held their Harvesting Hearts Fall Festival at the Barn at Homestead Manor in Thompson’s Station. The organization works with orphanages and impoverished villages to educate children and help they and their families have better lives. Their slogan is “Breaking the circle of poverty one child at a time.” The festival was a fundraising celebration of the work they do with special excitement for the new Love and Learn 21 educational program, which is for people with Downs Syndrome in Honduras. For more information, visit www.hearts2honduras.org.

arty P y a d i l r Ho u o y k o Bo Pig! t u n a g at Bun Mandi Ashley, Michelle & Charleigh Robinson

Shannon & Brendan Frazier

ovides r p m o o pace tairs r Our ups darts, TV’s and s ing! s, nc billiard rtaining and da for ente

Ann Louise & Katie McDonald, Taylor Locke

David & Olivia Wilson

Linsey & Andy Phillips

Rhonda Wicks, Mandi Ashley & Shelton Wicks

BUNGANUT PIG

1143 Columbia Avenue Franklin, TN 37064 615.794.4777 42 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | December 2015 BunganutPig.com

Matt Fox & Josephine Wood

John Wicks & Hudson Clark

Caroline & Emily Sullivan, Matthew Smith

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 44 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | December 2015

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.

December 2015 | YOURWILLIAMSON.COM 45

FEATURE FEATURE| |Holidays 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.

46 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | December 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.

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FEATURE | From Our House To YOURS

AT HOME WITH

SANTA & MRS. CLAUS

BY ANDREA DAVIS

W

ith the way we celebrate the holidays around here, it comes as no surprise that Santa’s home away from the North Pole is right here in Williamson County. We do have the “Merriest Main Street,” after all.

So, it just makes sense. And, even though Santa has a full schedule of appearances before he heads back up north to get ready for the big day, he and his wife were kind enough to open their Franklin home for a sneak peek into life as Mr. and Mrs. Claus.

down. Once, there was an unfortunate incident in front of the cafeteria staff at an elementary school that resulted in Mrs. Claus always making sure Santa is wearing suspenders. And the list goes on...

Of course, being Santa also comes with a lot of responsibility, more than most even realize. It’s a wonderful job to have, but it’s not always an easy one. Sadly, children do not ask for toys or the most requested electronics every time. They tell Santa they just want to be happy. They want mommy and daddy to get back together. They wish grandma wasn’t sick. These pleas bring tears to his eyes, because he has to tell them that sometimes Santa can’t give them everything.

Like many homes this time of year, the sights and smells of Christmas take over your senses, as soon as you walk in the door. However, at the Claus home, the halls are always decked from top to bottom in Yuletide décor, making all 365 days merry and bright for Santa and the missus.

Mrs. Claus says that most people cannot imagine living with so many decorations all the time, but she keeps everything in its place and in order.

When asked what it’s like to be the wife of the man in red, Mrs. Claus said that it comes with a lot of responsibility.

She has to keep him well fed, so he doesn’t lose his Santa figure. She reminds him of what appearances he has on his calendar. With so many of them, he’s had a few mix ups. She even has to keep Santa’s pants from falling December 2015 | YOURWILLIAMSON.COM 49

Hearing stories of broken homes and sadness is a burden for Santa to bear, but he carries it with hope that he can bring at least a little joy to all children.

Funny and sad stories aside, Santa and Mrs. Claus will tell you that their lives are richly blessed because of who they are. They have their own sad stories, but Mrs. Claus says that blessings “fall from the sky,” bringing comfort and happiness in moments, when they are needed them most. As much joy as they bring to others, they receive even more in return.

Now, let’s talk reality for just a minute, before we all get back to the madness of this most wonderful time of the year.

Not everyone believes in Santa.

So, for practical purposes, like buying their house, paying the bills and quite often giving their names to this magazine for photos, the Clauses give aliases when necessary. They are Pat and Dianne Petty. You may know them as those people and think that those are their real names, but take a moment to really get to know them. Listen to their stories. And, if you’re fortunate enough to enter the doors of their home, open your mind to the magical experience that will leave you certain that they are most definitely Mr. and Mrs. Claus.

50 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | December 2015

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BUSINESS | YOUR Real Estate with the WCAR

HOME SALES AND MEDIAN PRICE UP IN WILLIAMSON COUNTY

V

alues for Williamson County homes continued the upward trajectory in October as the $422,000 median price was 3.4% higher than the same time last year, according to data from the Williamson County Association of REALTORS® (WCAR).

In addition to median price increases, October saw 379 single family residential homes sold in Williamson County, an increase of 6.7% over last year’s 355. An additional 39 condos sold during this same period, up 21.9% from the 32 sold last October.

“The sales volume and median price for October is encouraging,” said Chip Kerr, 2015 WCAR President. “Volume was in a range similar to 2006, while median price was the highest on record for October.”

Not only was it the highest median price for October since at least 2005, the median price was the second highest of any month this year, coming just short of April’s $425,000 mark. This marked the tenth month median price exceeded $400,000 dating back to December 2014.

The sales numbers were reassuring for an industry that underwent major regulation changes on October 3. The new Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) regulations required major shifts in the lending industry and threatened to lengthen the closing process by as many as 14 days.

“Seeing sales volume for October increase, even in the midst of adjusting to federal regulations, is a testament to the hard work of housing professionals in our area,” said Kerr.

REALTORS® are still cautious about the overall trajectory of the national housing market.

A report from the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) shows a continual decline in first-time home buyers. The 2015 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers found that first-time home buyers made up 32-percent of the market, compared to 33-percent a year ago. This was the third year in a row to see a decline in that category. Data ranging to 1981 shows first-time homebuyers historically make up about 40% of the market. The survey cites several factors, including rising rents and home prices that impede the ability to save. Scarce inventory in price ranges first-time buyers can afford was also a concern.

“Buyer education is going to be important in the future,” said Kerr. “Prospective buyers need to understand how debt impacts loan qualification. They also need to understand the types of loans and programs available for them to use.

“Whether it’s connecting them to lenders or financial counselors, REALTORS® are a great resource for first-time prospective buyers.”

With 2,100 members, the Williamson County Association of REALTORS® provides support and services for area real estate professionals and is the leading voice in the community for its members, as well as residential and commercial property owners. REALTOR® is a registered trademark which may be used only by real estate professionals who are members of the National Association of REALTORS® and subscribe to its strict Code of Ethics.

SOCIAL | Franklin Veterans Day Parade

Story & Photography by K. York Everyone loves a parade, especially one honoring our nation and community’s veterans at the annual Veterans Day Parade in Franklin. Local church bells tolled, and traffic was rerouted around the downtown area as thousands of spectators lined Main Street to honor our veterans. The Parade was held a day early because Williamson County schools were closed on Veterans Day, and no parade is complete without marching bands. It is with such pride that our great city takes this holiday to pay our respects to the men and women who so bravely serve and have served our great nation in times of peace, conflict and war.

Sons of American Revolution

G.W. Sanders Jr. family

American Legion Post 215

Lynne & Tristan Thunderbolt

Alf Harfield

Savannah, Ben & Ava Calhoun

Matthew & Carson Seiffer, Warren & Weston Buck, Noah Hammons

Gena Poulas, Margaret Martin, Gayle Wright & Carolyn LeSueur

Gillian & Coleman Goldsborough

Photography by Leverage Creative

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.

54 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | December 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

SOCIAL | WCAR Installation Banquet Story & Photography by K. York The Williamson County Association of Realtors held their Installation of Officers and Directors and Recognition Celebration at The Barn at Homestead Manor in Thompson’s Station in November. The outgoing President, Chip Kerr, was recognized for his outstanding service with a donation in his name to Habitat to Humanity. Whitney Srouji was presented the Presidential gift and David Logan was selected as the 2016 Board President. David addressed the crowd about our communities blessings and challenges and his vision for the future. A toast to the incoming President was made by the 175 WCAR members in attendance. Monica Neubauer won Realtor of the Year and Charlie Peterson Realty of Trust Residential won Rookie of the Year. Other board members received recognition for their accomplishments.

Parks on Main

David Logan & Jane McDonald

Benchmark

WCAR 2016 Board

Keller Williams

Brandon Blair & Whitney Srouji

Sarah & T.J. Dyer

Courtney & Matt Daniel

Sue Stacy & Kyle Shults

Lisa Culp Taylor & Tom McGrew

Darby Kemp & Garrett Locklear

Christy Hoskins & Hagan Stone

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COMMUNITY | In YOUR Backyard

Homes for the Holidays V

isitors will get an inside look into several Franklin homes and churches and enjoy the various styles of holiday decorations that exhibit the balance between historic charm and modern allure. The tour falls on the same weekend as the Heritage Foundation’s Dickens of a Christmas event, and guests are encouraged to come for the celebration and stay for the home tours. Period costumed and festive interpreters and holiday music will be at many of the sites throughout the tour.

Music: Provided by Summit High School Advanced Chorale, Earl Nichols on piano, and Jon Rosenthal/Blended 688 Festive Sweets:

Cumberland Presbyterian, 615 West Main Street

Landmark Books 114 East Main Street 58 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | December 2015

Home baked treats will be served at various sites, and hot cider will be served at the Lotz House.

This event benefits Bridges Domestic Violence Center which serves women, men and their children affected by domestic violence, ensuring a safe transition to successful independent living through education, intervention and case management. For more information about Bridges Domestic Violence Center, visit www.bridgesdvc.org The Tour is sponsored by First Tennessee Bank which was founded during the Civil War in 1864 and has the 14th oldest national bank charter in the country, as well as one of the highest customer retention rates of any bank in the country.

TICKETS: Advance tickets are $30 per person or two for $55 and include a tour of all homes and churches. Tickets at the door on Dec. 12 and 13 are $32 per person or two for $60. Groups of 10 or more are $25 each. Please note that tickets are non-refundable. Tour patrons are welcomed to split up the tour over both days if desired. Tickets are available at these locations: • Lotz House, 1111 Columbia Avenue, 615-790-7190, www.lotzhouse.com • The Heritage Foundation, 134 2nd Ave North, 615-591-8500, www.historicfranklin.com • Bridges Domestic Violence Center, 615-599-8064, www.bridgesdvc.org • Westhaven Resident’s Club, 401 Cheltenham Ave, 615-791-9250, www.westhaventn.com • Williamson County Convention & Visitors Bureau, 150 4th Avenue North G-250, 615-791-7554, www.visitfranklin.com • The Shop Around The Corner, 117 3rd Avenue North, 615-599-1652 • FirstBank, 510 Columbia Ave., Suite 106 at 5 Points, 615-435-2460, www.firstbankonline.com

The home of Ann Johnson 1211 Carnton Lane

The home of Lisa & Brian Beathard 704 Fair Street

Lotz House 1111 Columbia Avenue

O’More College of Design 423 South Margin Street

Ty’s House - Hard Bargain Association 608 Mt. Hope Street

St. Phillip Catholic Church – Old Sanctuary, 113 2nd Avenue South

Visit www.yourwilliamson.com to read about the history of the historic homes featured here.

The home of Lydia &Tom Miller 1328 Carnton Lane

The home of Kelly & Chad Dannenfelser 315 Fourth Avenue South

The home of Erika & Marcus Frazier 1508 Holmes Circle

The home of Rebecca & John Burns 1136 Carnton Lane December 2015 | YOURWILLIAMSON.COM 59

SOCIAL | Hats Off to High Hopes

Story & Photography Submitted The 18th Annual Hats Off To High Hopes was held November 15th at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville. Jonathan Cain of the band Journey, Trevor Rosen and Matt Ramsey of Old Dominion, Jamie O’Neal, The Warren Brothers, and Lance Miller provided a star-studded night raising over $125,000 for High Hopes Development Center’s pediatric clinic and inclusive preschool programs.

High Hopes Development Center is a non profit that has been serving children for over 30 years. For more information, visit www. highhopesforkids.org.

Debbie & Andy Lee, Dee Thompson, Connie & Todd Jones

Matt Ramsey & Trevor Rosen

Cindy Owen, Tim Nichols & Naima Adedapo

Brett Warren, Susan & Jeff Byrd, Jeff Dobyns, Lance Miller & Amy Dobyns

Walter & Laurie Stevens, Chris & Emily Jenkins

presents

also presented by Ajax Turner PLAbyMedia also presented Ajax Turner PLA THE Lotz House Foundation &Media THE Andrews Agency The Lotz House Foundation & The Andrews Agency

benefiting U Bridges Domestic Violence Center benefiting Bridges Domestic preservation Violence Center and historic and historic preservation

Saturday, Dec. 12 and Sunday, Dec. 13 U 5:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 12 and Sunday, Dec. 13

5:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. tickets are available at THE Heritage foundation and the Lotz House at lotzhouse.com or (615) 790-7190 tickets are available at the Lotz House lotzhouse.com or (615) 790-7190

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December 2015 | YOURWILLIAMSON.COM 61

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 62 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | December 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.

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YW 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.

64 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | December 2015

SOCIAL | Zombie Prom Story & Photography by K. York The Zombies gathered for their first Prom in Leipers Fork on Halloween weekend. The Zombie Prom and Haunted Hedge took place at the home of Del, Carolyn and Thaddeus Bryant. Guests, if they dared, followed the mysterious path through the Haunted Hedge to get to the spooky barn where they stepped into another world to enjoy great food, dancing and a good time. It was the inaugural event for Thaddeus Bryant’s The Heads Up Penny Foundation. Thaddeus’ Foundation, in association with Leipers Anne Goetze, Bianca Mason Fork Jailhouse Industries, put on a truly haunting event that will benefit & Rachael McCampbell the lives both organizations touch.

Carolyn Bryant, Eddie Creech, Heather & Tad Bryant

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December 2015 | YOURWILLIAMSON.COM 65

LIFESTYLE | Styling YOUR Everyday

Snowy Diorama

For more DIY ideas, check out StylingMyEveryday.com 66 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | December 2015

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. December 2015 | YOURWILLIAMSON.COM 67

SOCIAL | Harpeth True Value Holiday Open House

Story & Photography by K. York The annual Holiday Open House at Harpeth True Value in Franklin is always magical. The preview to a holiday wonderland of adorned trees and other festive decor, puts everyone in the Christmas spirit. Even Scrooge would have been inspired to deck the halls amidst the bright and beautiful greenery, lights and ornaments. If you did not make it to the event, go by Harpeth True Value to see what you missed before it's all gone!

Amy Fenton & Sandra Parker

Dana Katterjohn, Trish Stiles & Kathy Hitchman

Barbara Jett & Denise Hutson

Pat & Dianne Petty

Kayley Hitchman & Mica Labruyere

Mike & Shelly Moeller, Patti & John Bearden, Mike Alexander & Ryan Moeller

Bob Roethemeyer, Greg Crutchfield & Trina Bryan

Wren, Molly, Olivia, Travis & Scott Anderson 68 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | December 2015

Teresa & Danny Anderson

Tarica Thomas

Betsy Crawford, Stella & Teresa Dixson

John Dietz & Kim Burchette

Adam & Brittani Dean

Debbie Hicks & Charlene Williams

YW MONTHLY | YOUR Bone Vivant

CHRISTMAS DREAMS AND WISHES COMING TRUE

T

his is my first Christmas with my Mama Dana. We are having fun coming up with our own special traditions. One of the traditions is to write a Christmas list for Santa Paws. Mama Dana and I decided we wanted to make Christmas wishes come true for my animal friends at Williamson County Animal Center. Our ultimate wish is for each of them to find their forever family, but since it might take a while for every animal there to find their human, Mama and I thought we should add some items for the animals to have while they are waiting. I visited Mrs. Laura, the Director at WCAC, and she helped me put together a Christmas list for the animals at there.

THE

COUNTERTOP Experts GRANITE • MARBLE • QUARTZ

1. Land for a new building for WCAC! Let me tell you WCAC is bursting at the seams. WCAC needs at least 20 acres so they have plenty of room for the animals to RUN and PLAY! 2. More foster homes! WCAC has so many animals that need to be fostered for various reasons, and WCAC needs more foster homes.

Atticus with Laura Chavarria

3. More adopters! With Williamson County booming, WCAC wants folks to visit their local animal shelter first before buying an animal or shopping for an animal on craigslist.

4. Cat Litter (especially Ultra Pearls Cat Litter), Cat Nip, Plastic Cat Toys, Tomahawk Feral Cat Dens, Ping Pong Balls and Cat Cubbies. (http://amzn.to/1H97M3z) 5. Dog Supplies: Puppy Pens, Plastic Dog Travel Crates, Mendota Slip Lead Leashes, Kong Dog Toys (L, XL only), Metal Wire Dog Crates and Puppy Potty Pads.

6. Food: Royal Canin Mother and Babycat Cat Food, Peanut Butter and Canned Pumpkin.

7. Towels and Blankets.

Here is the Amazon wish list for WCAC: http://amzn.to/1NcadVp Help Santa Paws make Christmas wishes come true for the doggies and kitties at WCAC! You can drop presents off at WCAC, 106 Claude Yates Drive, Franklin, Tennessee. I challenge each of you to visit them and see the shelter in action and the great animals looking for a lap to call their very own.

Sweet dreams to everyone this holiday season, and may every Christmas wish come true.

Wags and kisses, Atticus

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COMMUNITY | Days Gone By

Reflecting on Franklin’s Christmas Past

BY MARGIE THESSIN

What do you remember from your childhood about Christmas? I asked this question of several Franklin folks who grew up in the mid-20th century.

Before “Black Friday” was a thing, Franklin’s equivalent was the month of December.

“It was right after the biggest cash crop came in, tobacco. All the farmers were flush with cash and had the most money they had all year, so it was great for them and great for the merchants,” recalls Lloyd Crockett, who grew up on Third Avenue.

The season began by going out and “cutting your tree. There weren’t tree lots like now so you had to go out and cut your own,” Crockett says.

Each Christmas First Methodist Church decorated the Sunday before Christmas with white and silver spray-painted magnolia leaves, cedar trees and the manger Pictured here as Mary is Mildred Ewin, Margaret Martin’s mother, about 1935. Later women who had infants played the role of Mary and their babies were Jesus.

Eunetta Kready and her father, Henry Mayberry, went to her grandmother’s farm and cut “the biggest, fattest tree we could find and it never fit through the door. We always had to cut it down and there was more cut than left. We had 12-foot ceilings and it always beautiful in the front window” in the Kready house on Lewisburg Pike.

And in Franklin, your tree was always a cedar, festooned with big fat colored lights, says Marie Jordan who also grew up on Lewisburg Pike.

Stores didn’t start decorating until December 1, but most stayed open late on Christmas Eve. Jordan remembers people taking the bus to Nashville late on Christmas Eve to take advantage of the last minute deals. Lloyd Crockett, whose father owned Crockett and Webb grocery store on Third Avenue where City Hall is now located, “stayed open as long as customers were there,” sometimes until 8:00 or 9:00pm.

And of course there’s Santa. Odessa Carter, who lived on 11th Avenue, learned the truth at seven after snooping in her mother’s things and discovering a present that didn’t later appear at Christmas. “I said something to my mother about the present she forgot, and she said, ‘well, I guess you know!’”

The Jordan family shopped through downtown in a feature article for the Review Appeal in 1973. Here, the children are pictured at Gray Drugs, now Grays on Main.

Most of the merchants pictured are long out of business.

70 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | December 2015

Marie Jordan remembers that bank president Don Patterson dressed up as Santa and ran across yards— that’s all—didn’t’ stop in. But he called ahead to let his friends know when he was coming, so they could suggest their children look out the window to catch a glimpse of Santa.

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Then, the presents. Most of the women recalled a doll, although some said they didn’t much play with dolls. Marie Jordan loved her Shirley Temple doll, while Eunetta Kready was the envy of the neighborhood when she got a doll and a trunk full of hand-made doll clothes hand-made by her grandmother and aunt. “I can’t imagine how long it took!”

Odessa Carter loved her doll, with dresser, chest of drawers and comb and brush set. Lloyd Crockett received a single barrel, 20 gauge shotgun as a sophomore in high school, because “everybody hunted, of course.”

Franklin Alderman Margaret Martin recollects usually receiving a doll and something to wear, but the year a mouton coat and a telephone appeared under the Christmas tree, Martin thought she’d “died and gone to heaven.” A mouton coat, made of lambskin, was the height of fashion in the ‘50s.

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And of course every holiday includes a traditional meal, and in Franklin that usually included turkey and dressing, some form of oysters, sweet potatoes, country ham—something Pennsylvania-raised husband Sam Kready had never heard of, Eunetta relates—and an array of sweets.

“Different ladies in the family had a specialty and my mother’s was jam cake,” Lloyd Crockett remembers. Coconut cake was another Christmas treat, as was fruitcake. Eunetta Kready’s mother fixed divinity and fudge for church carolers who came to the door. But the one thing in common everyone served was Southern boiled custard, similar to but not the same as egg nog. For the Crockett’s, whiskey-laced boiled custard at Christmas was the only time of the year there was any liquor in the house. And woe if you over-indulged. Odessa Carter was “high as a skunk” at age 11 after doing just that…and never did it again.

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, December 2015 | YOURWILLIAMSON.COM 73

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.

There is no better time to visit than during the

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

74 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | December 2015

December 2015 | YOURWILLIAMSON.COM 75

SOCIAL | Spring Hill Mayor's Ball

Story & Photography by K. York The Spring Hill Chamber of Commerce hosted the 3rd annual Mayor’s Ball at the United Auto Workers Banquet Hall in October. Mayor Rick Graham addressed guests, sharing his sentiments of gratitude and appreciation for the sponsors and the many people and businesses that have helped Spring Hill grow and prosper. The Old Hollywood themed, black tie event, was a sensational night of live music, dancing and dinner.

Austin Cline, Lydia Lay, Mike & Leann Henson

Stephanie & Daniel Allen

Eric & Wanda Guy

Jeremy Durham, Lynn Maddox & Rick Graham

Carma & Cole Barksdale, Dianne Scroggins

Deborah & Mike Boggs, Diane & David Clements

Heather Roham, Victoria Marger & Stephanie Brunson

Katie & Wil Evans

Terry Brown, Kerry White & John Eslick

Kayla & Wil Tenpenny

Chris Westbrook, Elizabeth & Hank Russell

Joe & Gretchen Hagan

John Schwaner, Nancy Conway & Beth Schwaner

Ginny & Tony Maher

Laurie Coles, Mary Kinsman & Beth Hamby

76 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | December 2015

Marcus & Carey Albright, Cathy & Rick Malone

SOCIAL | Blue & Gray Days Story & Photography by K. York Blue & Gray Days brought re-enactors to Historic Carnton Plantation to educate school children, history buffs and the curious about life during the Civil War era.

It was a step back into the 1860’s with Abraham Lincoln and Ulysses S. Grant walking the plantation grounds telling stories of the war. Period craftsmen were on sight to share and demonstrate their skills. Battlefield meals were present in hanging fireside kettles over campfires.

Blue & Gray Days truly offers a glimpse into the days of our past.

Ed Vaughn, Austin DuBuc, Carla & Corry Alan

Nanci Womack & Jane Wissman

Abraham Lincoln & Wyatt Barker

Alex, Issac & Nate Van Weelden

Chuck & Teresa Allen

Doug & Jeanie Arnold, Steve & Jackie Branum

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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.

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 78 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | December 2015

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

make it land flat on the ice so it’s easier to receive.

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

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 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.

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SOCIAL | Pumpkinfest

Story & Photography by Rachel Weishaupt The highly anticipated fall favorite event, Pumpkinfest, was back for the 32nd year on the streets of Historic Downtown Franklin. The event drew thousands of people and included a variety of activities including pumpkin painting, street vendors, musical performances, food trucks, pony rides and much more!

Of course there was also the delicious chili cook-off hosted by Franklin Tomorrow, featuring organizations, restaurants and businesses that cooked up their favorite recipe for a chance to win multiple prizes.

Hometown Vet hosted the annual costume contest starring primarily all the little ghosts, goblins, chickens, princesses, oh and skunks! For more information on this event, go to www.historicfranklin.com.

Brady Mikrut

Hank Dent

Culvers Chili Cook-off Team

Faith Community Church Chili Cook-off Team

Bito Mann

Anna Joy & Nora Grace Nicodemus

Franklin Tomorrow Team

80 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | December 2015

Emily Weishaupt & Kati Perry

Elijah Esberger, Bryce Bowman & Cosette

Christopher & Ryder Close

Janice Herbert & Allison Murry

JoNaGRILLE ThAn’S Book your holiday party today at any of our five locations. Two private rooms available.

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LIFESTYLE | A Southern Gentleman Is . . .

The Spirit Within

A YOUNG BOY SHOWS THAT A GOOD HEART CAN BE AN INSPIRATION

BY DANNY ANDERSON

I

believe that each of us have miracles scattered throughout each day. Some of them go unnoticed, but others make an impact on our lives. The latter was the case when I first met Zion Redington. Zion is a nine year old, energetic, full of life, little boy that loves sports—especially jumping on his trampoline, cycling, surfing, swimming, karate and throwing the javelin. He has also entered several Mini Marathons, including the Country Music Mini Marathon, where he finished the 3.1-mile run in 25 minutes (15 minutes before his mother Heather crossed the finish line).

Zion was born in Southern China in 2006 and adopted at the age of two. He was born with ectrodactyly, a genetic disease that causes the absence of one or more digits on the hand or foot. Zion was born with one finger on each hand and one pinky toe on each foot. The only thing that slowed him down was the pain he dealt when walking on the ball of his feet, so on December 21, 2012 Zion had a bilateral amputation of both feet.

I first met Zion at the Franklin Art Crawl.

He was one of our featured children artists at Parks on Main that benefited the Make-AWish Foundation. Definitely not the bashful type, Zion jumped right in to help our agents prepare the fare for the night and to help them serve our many Art Crawl guests.

He was indeed a Star that night—showing everyone his two paintings and charming each person along the way. And yes, he sold his two paintings, with the proceeds going to Make-A-Wish.

That night Zion was wearing his very hip prosthetic legs, decorated with colorful designs and had tennis shoes. He looked very cool as he moved in and around the

crowd, running and jumping like young boys will do. Zion stole my heart and the heart of everyone he met that night. His inner spirit and amazing confidence lit up the room like a Christmas Tree. He indeed endeared himself to all of our agents that worked Art Crawl that night.

Yes, Zion is a little different but only in

the way he views life, this faith, friends and family. His view of life is not that of a young boy but someone far beyond his age.

He never fails to tell you that his greatest blessing is his family, especially his amazing mother, Heather Redington, a mother to six children, four that were adopted and that have special needs. Zion and his mom

dropped by my office recently, as they often do just to say hi to his new found friends, so I could interview him for this article.

As always I left the room overwhelmed by his radiant spirit, warm smile and giving heart.

HERE ARE A FEW “ZIONISM’S” THAT HE SHARED WITH ME: • He believes that God wants him to help other people know that they can do anything they put their mind to.

• That we are ALL different in some way and there should be no bullying.

• Being bullied himself was sad and rude, but he chose to be a leader instead.

• He is most grateful for God, his friends and family.

• He wants to help people and serve them.

• His Christmas wish was that people would have food, clothes, excitement, happiness and joy.

• He enjoys playing in the snow (don’t we all).

• He wants to be a veterinarian when he grows up.

• That he goes to Hope Academy.

• He wants Ninja Lego and Star Wars figures for Christmas.

Today Zion has a new look. He is sporting his new blades and is very happy to show you just how fast he can run on them. Soon he will be the proud recipient of two new robotic hands, which he says he can’t wait to show off. His spirit is contagious, and he makes you want to be a better person.

With the holidays fast approaching and 2015 quickly coming to an end, I find myself reflecting on my many “little miracles” and like Zion, I too am so thankful for my faith, my friends and my wonderful family, and for the gift of love, hope and goodness that I found in the life a of a remarkable nine-year-old. My friend Zion.

join us

FOR A SPECTACULAR SEASON!

Ken Ludwig’s

The Game’s Afoot: HOLMES FOR THE HOLIDAYS SHOW RUNS DECEMBER 4-19.

PURCHASE TICKETS NOW! Go to www.pull-tight.com any time, or call 791-5007 Tuesday-Friday, 10 am-4 pm.

Discover a treasure.

112 2nd Avenue, South • Historic Downtown Franklin

www.pull-tight.com

December 2015 | YOURWILLIAMSON.COM 83 “The Game’s Afoot” is presented by special arrangement with Samuel French, Inc.

SOCIAL | Take the Cake Sponsored Event

Story & Photography by K. York With American Picker’s Mike Wolfe serving as Master of Ceremonies, the second annual Take the Cake fundraising event, was held at the historic Court House in downtown Franklin. The delicious evening centers around the auction of donated cakes to support the The DUI Court Foundation of Williamson County. The Foundation helps non-violent, multiple DUI offenders stay out of jail and find rehabilitative programs and services to put their lives back together. The Foundation is dedicated to the reduction of DUI recidivism in Williamson County through the programs it offers to those suffering from alcoholism and other addictions leading to vehicular crimes.

Marcus Calixte, Tisha Hood, Michael Honeycutt & Nicole Hobson

Denise Andre, Chad, Heather & Easton Grace Connery

The Deltacoustics

Turner Talley, Nanette Giardina, Laura Wheeler & Denise Andre

Clay Perry & Mike Wolfe

Ruthie Slingerland, Leigh Funderburk, Jaonne Miller & Melinda Hadaway

Deanna Johnson & Brian Beathard

Grant Benedict, John & Julie Sutton, Judy Oxford

Fatima Robertson & Bill Lane

Judy Apple & Lydia Miller

84 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | December 2015

Jackie & Bob Canaday

Jim Shannon & Magda Osbourn

Diana Casella, Brad & Kristen Casella

Dawn & Spiro Dellos

SOCIAL | Kris Kringle Kar Klassic Story & Photography by K. York To celebrate the seasons, Williamson County Parks and Recreation’s 12th Annual Kris Kringle Kar Klassic took place at the Williamson County Ag Expo Arena, along with the 25th Annual Holiday Arts and Crafts Show. Over 80 vintage and modified cars were showcased on Halloween, while welcoming little spooks to trick-or-treat. The fun continued the next day, as Kris Kringle joined the festivities.

The event wrapped up with a Community Band concert.

For information on this and more WCPR events, visit their webpage at www.wcparksandrec.com.

Lizabeth, Matthew & Jessica Weeks

Magda Guanchez, Mariana, Sofia & Jesus Lopez

Carrigan McCollum

Alana Clark

Tina Edwards, Olivia & David Lowry

Stefania & Ashlei Tocci

Jake Jacobs

December 2015 | YOURWILLIAMSON.COM 85

FEATURE | Holiday 101

E D I U G T F I G 4.

HANDCRAFTED FRENCH ROLLING PIN $69, Franklin Custom Interiors

3.

HANDCRAFTED PATCHWORK ROLLING PIN $99, Franklin Custom Interiors

1.

MERRY CHRISTMAS ELVES Starting at $24.99, Harpeth True Value

5.

HANDCRAFTED WOOD CUTTING BOARD 13”x 20” $129, Franklin Custom Interiors

2.

EDWARDIAN ERA RING WITH PLATINUM TOPPED GOLD & EUROPEAN CUT DIAMONDS Contact for pricing, Walton’s Antique & Estate Jewelry

6.

OLIVIA’S BASIL OLIVE OIL $18, Olivia Olive Oil

7.

FAMOUS MOCHA CRINKLE COOKIE Seasonal baked goods prices vary, Puffy Muffin

8.

86 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | December 2015

WEIGHTED BLANKET $150, Give the Gift of Sleep this Christmas with Weighting Comforts

10.

TENNESSEE TROUT HAT $25, Friedman’s of Franklin

9.

TENNESSEE LONG SLEEVE TEE $37, Friedman’s of Franklin

11.

TENNESSEE BASS HAT $25, Friedman’s of Franklin

13.

12.

PENDLETON WOOL BLANKET $260, Macy’s

PRIVATE ENGLISH RIDING LESSON $60, TRIPLE DASCH EQUESTRIAN

14.

STAR WARS SLIPPERS $46, Macy’s CHUKKERS FOR CHARITY

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FALL INTO THE GULF COAST FABULOUS FALL!

Halloween Decor, Tasty Treats, ings & Haunted Happen

15.

Philanthropy All Around Us GENE ROSIT Y

AMSO N & GIVIN G IN WILLI

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8:06 AM

YOUR WILLIAMSON MAGAZINE SUBSCRIPTION $50, Robertson Media Group

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

1. HARPETH TRUE VALUE 203 Downs Blvd, Franklin, TN | 615.794.3641 | harpethtruevalue.com | 2. WALTON’S JEWELRY 410 Main Street, Franklin, TN | 615.790.0244 | 3, 4, & 5. FRANKLIN CUSTOM INTERIORS 1265 Columbia Avenue, Franklin, TN | 615.595.7156 | 6. OLIVIA OLIVE OIL 443 Cool Springs Blvd, #103, Franklin, TN | 615.771.9595 | olivianashville.com | 7. PUFFY MUFFIN Locations in Franklin & Brentwood | puffymuffin.com/holiday | 8. WEIGHTING COMFORTS weightingcomforts.com | 9, 10, &11. FRIEDMAN’S OF FRANKLIN 1346 W Main Street, Franklin, TN | 615.628.8062 | 12. TRIPLE DASCH EQUESTRIAN facebook.com/TripleDaschEquestrian | 615.364.9522 |13 & 14. MACY’S macys.com | 15. H CLARK DISTILLERY 1557 Thompson’s Station Road W, Thompson’s Station, TN | 615.478.2191 | hclarkdistillery.com | 16. ROBERTSON MEDIA GROUP 435 Main Street, Suite 205, Franklin, TN | 615.979.1548 December 2015 | YOURWILLIAMSON.COM 87

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.

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 | Martin Masters Fine Art Show CONCERTS | RESTAURANT | PRIVATE EVENTS | WINERY Story & Photography by K. York The Martin Masters Fine Art Show and Sale kicked of their 10th anniversary at the Fifty Forward Martin Center in Brentwood with a meet and greet cocktail reception fundraiser. Attendees enjoyed viewing the art of Ron York, Shari Lacy, Frank Gee and many other talented artists. The proceeds of the event will be used to expand the Center’s fine arts program and other services. For more information, visit www.fiftyforward.org.

EARLY AND LATE SHOWS

NEW YEAR’S EVE with

M A RT Y ST UA RT AND HIS FABULOUS SUPERLATIVES

Shari Lacy & Joyce Keistler

Donna & Randy Bryant

Betty Wentworth, Kathrine & Don Webb, Lori & Mark Orme

Dorothy & Frank Gee

Paula Durham, JoAnn & Dave Thombs

GIFT Marilyn Wendling & Jade Reynolds

CARDS Linda Hirsch & Diane Sylvis

VINOFILE MEMBERSHIPS

LIFESTYLE | 5 Sense Living

5

SENSE LIVING

Bringing you the 411 on the sights, sounds, smells and tastes of what touches you in Williamson County. Carpe Diem, y’all!

DINING

PLACES TO DINE FOR CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR’S

Sperry’s: 615-778-9950 • Open both Christmas and New Year’s Eve day with regular menu.

Mack & Kate’s: 615- 591-4104 • Christmas Eve 5:30pm-8pm and Christmas Day 10am-2pm with special menu. New Year’s Eve & New Year’s day–normal operating hours.

Mere Bulles: 615-467-1945 • Closed Christmas Day and New Year’s day.

Christmas Eve 4:30pm-8pm with standard menu. New Year’s Eve–4:30pm-9pm with regular or prix fixe menu.

Puffy Muffin: 615-309-0703 • Closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Open New Year’s Eve and closed New Year’s day.

Harvest at Homestead Manor: 615-538-6113 • Open Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Closed Christmas Day. Lyrics: 615-791-6065 • Cosed Christmas, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Circa: 615-614-2079 • Closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Open New Year’s Eve–reservation only, dinner two seatings with special menu New Year’s Day. Henpeck Market: 615-807-2117 • Christmas Eve–closes at 2 pm, closed Christmas Day, open New Year’s Eve & New Year’s Day. 90 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | December 2015

Saffire: 615-599-4995 • Closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Open New Year’s Eve with prix fixe menu option. Closed New Year’s Day. Puckett’s: 615-794-5527 • Open Christmas Day and New Year’s Day 7am-10pm. Open New Year’s Eve 7am-12am—private show and dinner by reservation only.

Puckett’s Leipers Fork: 615-794-1308 • Closed Christmas Day. Open Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Frothy Monkey: 615-465-6279 • Closed Christmas Day. Open Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.

Mangia: 615-538-7456 • Open New Years Eve with special menu.

Neighborhood Tap Room: (615) 807-2753 • Open Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve with standard menu. Closed Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Merridee’s Breadbasket: (615) 790-3755 • Open Christmas Eve until 2pm. Closed Christmas Day. Honeysuckle: (615) 771-2111 • Open Christmas Eve with a special menu. Closed Christmas Day. Open New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.

Red Pony: 615-595-7669 • Open New Year’s Eve with prix fixe menu. Closed Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Cork and Cow: 615-538-6021 • Open New Year’s Eve with prix fixe menu. Closed Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. 55 South: 615-538 6001 • Open Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve–standard menu. Closed New Year’s Day. Gray’s On Main: 615-435-3603 • Open Christmas Eve. Closed Christmas Day. Open New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Wild Ginger: 615- 778-0081 • Closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Open New Year’s Eve and New Year’s day with standard menu.

Basil’s Asian Bistro: 615-771-0999 • Open Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Open New Year’s Eve with prix fixe menu. Closed New Year’s Day.

ART

RAYMON TROUP

R

aymon and Jane Troup met in an art class at the University of Northern Tennessee and have been together since 1973. This sweet couple have a lot of creative talent between the two of them and are a staple in the Franklin area. They moved here in the 1970’s from Huntsville, AL where Raymon worked for NASA in the Marshal Space Flight Center as a graphic artist. “It was a very interesting place to be for someone just out of college. There was a most positive, optimistic atmosphere about the place. Only a few years earlier NASA had sent astronauts to the moon and brought them back...anything was possible,” says Raymon.

When they moved to Nashville, Raymon took an artist position in the advertising department of Cain-Sloan Department Store where advertisements, at the time, were hand drawn! The store was later sold, and Raymon went to work in the corporate world. He reentered the creative world in the last ten years after retiring and tapped back into his painting passion. Raymon remembers his interest in art beginning when he was a little boy and would watch painting shows on television to learn.

December 2015 | YOURWILLIAMSON.COM 91

MUSIC

MUSIC CITY STRINGS

I

f you want to hear the sound of angels, you have many opportunities over the month of December, as the kids from Music City Strings play their way across Williamson County and the greater Nashville area. If you are not familiar with this group, it is “one of the top string-performance ensembles in the country”.

The group was founded by international concert violinist and violist, Dana Meyer. Dana holds a degree from the Cleveland Institute of Music and has performed in major orchestras across the country and throughout Europe, and we are so thankful that she found her way to Williamson County with a passion to build children up and teach them the love of music.

He and Jane love living in Franklin and the beautiful architecture of the city. For his paintings, he enjoys researching the details of downtown Franklin in the early 1900’s. In his “Main Street” painting, he puts details such as lace curtains and the dresses and hats displayed in what used to be a dress store, as well as the clock designed to look like a man’s watch displayed above what used to be a jewelry store there back then. The people portrayed are dressed similarly to what we see during one of the most exciting times of the year in downtown Franklin, Dickens of a Christmas, where you see families and couples strolling up and down Main Street, looking in shops while enjoying crisp winter evenings. The “Franklin Theatre” piece portrays the winter of 1937, when the theatre was actually first built. It also profiles the vehicles of that era, which is another passion of Raymon’s. Jane also creates art by hand making jewelry, and she does holiday influenced pieces that you can see such as the peppermint bracelet made with durable lamp-worked glass with a sterling silver heart clasp and genuine Swarovski crystal elements beads or her sterling silver snowflake earrings, just to name a couple. Raymon also does pen and ink drawings of Franklin for Christmas cards, and you can find their work at RaymonTroup.etsy.com and ArtandArtisan.etsy.com.

Raymon shares that he just feels honored that “people are drawn to my art and take my vision of Franklin into their homes.”

The children are taught based on the Suzuki method that begins with classical music, and many of them begin playing at age three and four. But when you see these students play, you can hear, see and feel their love of music as they expand upon their classical foundation with fiddle, country and Irish tunes. The performances are choreographed, and the children have a great time appealing to the audience and making sure that they understand and can portray the meaning and feeling of a song from a slow touching ballad to a toe tapping jig. Much work is put into making these appearances run smoothly, and it cannot be done without the spirit of the community of students, teachers and parents that Dana believes is at the heart of all of their accomplishments. Dana and co-directer, Frank Auer, love what they do and relate it in no small part due to this connection that they find with the community of teaching children and their families who love music. They love seeing how working together as a village with music as its base to grow children’s experience level but also their confidence and their sensitivities to other cultures and communities throughout life and how powerful that impact can be.

Because of all of their dedication and talent, they were invited by The League of Astonishing Strings on a concert tour of Europe, during the summer of 2015. They have played with the likes of Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith, Steven Curtis Chapman and Nathan Pacheco. This December you can catch them at The Ryman Auditorium with Amy Grant, Downtown Franklin’s Dickens of a Christmas and the Lighting of the Christmas Tree among many others! These talented kids range in age from 4-18 years in age, and every single one of them shine with accomplishment and a desire to gift you with all of their hard work and love for music. Treat yourself this season, and check them out! www.musiccitystrings.org.

CULTURE

CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR’S EVENTS DICKENS OF A CHRISTMAS December 12, 10am–5pm and December 13, 11am–5pm

Each year, Main Street recalls the spirit of Christmases past when the Heritage Foundation throws its annual Dickens of a Christmas celebration. This year the event marks its 31st anniversary, and will feature both time-honored activities that have become perennial favorites, as well as a few new traditions in the making.

Franklin’s Main Street and its beautiful Victorian architecture will be decked out for the holiday season. Some 200 characters, dancers and entertainers will fill the street, including several from Charles Dickens’s stories interacting with the public. Expect to see the nefarious Fagin from Oliver Twist; Jacob Marley, Ebenezer Scrooge and Tiny Tim Cratchit with his parents from A Christmas Carol; and of course, a Victorian Father and Mother Christmas with treats for children. The English bobbies are actually on-duty Franklin police officers!

Sponsored this year by Nissan, the 31st annual free street festival will recreate the time of Charles Dickens using historic downtown Franklin’s Victorian architecture as the backdrop. Some 200 musicians, dancers and characters will fill the streets, including several from Charles Dickens’s stories. Expect to see and interact with the nefarious Fagin from Oliver Twist; Jacob Marley, Ebenezer Scrooge and Tiny Tim Cratchit with his parents from A Christmas Carol; and of course, a Victorian Father and Mother Christmas with treats for children.

Dickens of a Christmas will run from 10am-5pm on Saturday, December 12 and from 11am-5pm on Sunday, December 13. More information can be found at www.historicfranklin.com.

LEIPERS FORK CHRISTMAS PARADE December 12, 2pm The almost famous, home-grown Leiper’s Fork Christmas Parade begins at 2pm on Saturday, December 12th. Get there early for refreshments and shopping! The parade goes from Southall Road through the heart of the village on Old Hillsboro Road. Don’t forget to bring your lawn chairs and join this free, wacky, wild and wonderful parade. Tweet pictures using #LFParade. See www.facebook.com/LeipersForkChristmasParade for more info.

HOMES FOR THE HOLIDAYS December 12 & 13 Benefiting Bridges Domestic Violence Center and historic preservation, Homes for the Holidays visitors will get an inside look into several Franklin homes and churches and enjoy the various styles of holiday

decorations that exhibit the balance between historic charm and modern allure. The tour falls on the same weekend as the Heritage Foundation’s Dickens of a Christmas event, and guests are encouraged to come for the celebration and stay for the home tours.

The variety of historic and new sites on the tour will be filled with special collections and personalized décor that celebrate their own unique traditions. The Lotz House will serve holiday fare such as hot cider and Christmas cookies. Decorations in the house will be representative of the time period of the 1864 Battle of Franklin, with fresh décor of pulled cotton, harvested nuts, fresh apples, magnolia leaves and holly.

The home of Ann Johnson will offer festive foods and feature her collection of antiques, salvaged barn wood floors and refurbished cedar beams. Cumberland Presbyterian will provide holiday music, period décor and a 25-foot Christmas tree. The campus of O’More College of Design will be decorated by its talented design students. The home of Rebecca and John Burns will feature handmade crochet Christmas ornaments and a Crystal angel collection. Period costumed and festive interpreters will be at many of the sites throughout the tour. For tickets and information, go to www.bridgesdvc.org.

HOLMES FOR THE HOLIDAYS BY PULL-TIGHT PLAYERS

by Ken Ludwig December 10, 11, 12, 13, 18 & 19 The halls are decked with murder this holiday season at the Connecticut manse of stage actor William Gillette. But whodunit?

His mother, Martha? Or one of his fellow actor friends staying at Connecticut Castle for the Christmas weekend? Gillette has played Sherlock Holmes on stage, but now he had better play him in real life before the murderer strikes again. For tickets, go to www.pull-tight.com.

CAB CALLOWAY ORCHESTRA NEW YEARS EVE Cab Calloway Orchestra Presented by The Franklin Theatre December 31 The whole audience bouncing and swaying to the irresistible rhythm.

Everybody singing HI-DE-HO! They’re echoing the King himself, Cab Calloway, as he thrusts his baton into the air and in his Zoot Suit, jumps, twirls and signals to the band to begin another joyous chorus.

Who could forget the incredible sounds and imagery of Cab Calloway and his hot Jazz Orchestra! For more information and tickets, visit www.franklintheatre.com.

FOR MORE HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS AND EVENTS IN AND AROUND WILLIAMSON COUNTY, GO TO WWW.YOURWILLIAMSON.COM December 2015 | YOURWILLIAMSON.COM 93

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 94 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | December 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.

SOCIAL | American Girl Fashion Show Sponsored Event

Story & Photography by K. York The annual American Girl Fashion Show hosted by Mercy Community Healthcare was held at Liberty Hall at the Factory in November. Little girls of all ages, accompanied by their mom, dad, aunt and grandparents, enjoyed a very special day that was an experience of a lifetime. They enjoyed sophisticated treats, the fashion show, seeing their favorite American Girl characters and even had the chance to win door prizes. For more information, go to www.mercycommunityhealthcare.org.

Katherine Lacy with Grace, Sarah Gill with MaKenna

Audrey & Eleanor Waters, Lauren Drees

Anna Davidson, Ellie Jordan & Hailey Davidson

Angel & Maddi McGowan, Robyn & Cameron Worbington

Alaysia Sparkman

Donna Williams, Poppy Kate & Kate McAdams

Tess & Averey Smith

Kennedy & Janet Clarkson

Christy, Catherine & Carly Conte December 2015 | YOURWILLIAMSON.COM 95

SOCIAL | YOUR Williamson November Mixer Sponsored Event

Story & Photography by Andrea Davis YOUR Williamson welcomed guests to the Loveless Barn for its November Mixer to show gratitude to the loyal supporters that make each issue a success. The beautifully decorated, candelit atmosphere was the perfect setting for the intimate fall gathering. The Loveless Cafe provided appetizers that, of course, included their famous biscuits! Franklin songwriter Carmen Brandy performed with her unique style and commanding vocals, followed by the rock influenced, alt-country duo, Oxford Fall. Keep up with all YOUR Williamson events at www.yourwilliamson.com.

Whitney Young, Lindsey Chance & Jennifer Klein

Julie Jorgensen & Mike Alexander

Carmen Brandy

Dianne & Pat Petty, Susan Hilgendorf

Emily Fordice & Mary Benson

Chris Ham & Anna Robertson

Tim & Bess Kearns

Lois Coles & Steve Baker

Tracey Starck & Carter Stough

Jason Miller & Andrea Davis

Tony Brandy & Carmen Brandy

Gary & Ramona Witzgall

96 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | December 2015

Lynn Center, Paul Gervais & Jeni Housley

COMMUNITY | YOUR Education

2015–2016 WILLIAMSON SCHOOL CALENDAR DECEMBER 18 End of First Semester (Students ½ Day) DECEMBER 21-JANUARY 1 Winter Break —(No School Dec. 23–25, Dec 30, 31 and Jan 1) JANUARY 4 Administrative Day (All Teachers Report, No Students) JANUARY 5 District-Wide Professional Development Day (No Students) JANUARY 6 Site-Based Professional Development Day (No Students) JANUARY 7 First Student Day Second Semester JANUARY 18 Martin Luther King, Jr. Day (No School) FEBRUARY 15 Presidents Day (No Students) Site-Based Professional Development Day

MARCH 11 End of Third Quarter Grading Period

FRANKLIN SPECIAL SCHOOL DISTRICT CALENDAR

MARCH 21 - 25 Spring Break (No School March 24 & Good Friday)

DECEMBER 21–JANUARY 1—Winter Holiday JANUARY 4—School Professional Learning Day

APRIL 19 ACT Exam - 11th Grade (Students in School)

JANUARY 5 —District Professional Learning Day

MAY 20 Last Day for Students – End of Second Semester (Students ½ Day)

JANUARY 7 —First Student Day Second Semester

MAY 20-21 Graduation Window

FEBRUARY 15—President’s Day Holiday

MAY 23 Administrative Day for Teachers MAY 30 Memorial Day (No School) JULY 4 Independence Day (No School)

JANUARY 6 —Administrative Day for Teachers JANUARY 18 —Martin Luther King, Jr. Day FEBRUARY 12—Early Dismissal MARCH 11 —End of Third Quarter Grading Period MARCH 18—Early Dismissal MARCH 21–25—Spring Break MAY 25—Abbreviated Day (Last day for Students & Teachers) End of Fourth Quarter Grading Period

Let The Loveless Cafe Help Make Your Holiday ight!

Give a Gii Basket Sure to Delight family, friends, co-workers or clients!

Host Your Party Here

Let us Cater for You

around town, at the office or your home!

in The Barn or The Harpeth Room!

a Nashville Tradition since 1951

www.lovelesscafe.com

YW MONTHLY | Williamson 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.

December 2015 | YOURWILLIAMSON.COM 99

Be ready to winter.

All New 2016 Infiniti

QX60 Built for Families.

Designed for Drivers.

The spacious interior of the QX60 adjusts to your needs with unrivalled adaptability. With abundant legroom for all passengers and a unique 2nd-row sliding and tilting seat to provide access to the 3rd-row. The innovative QX60 provides versatility precisely tailored to the needs of every guest. To see if the QX60 is right for you, skate over to Infiniti of Cool Springs.

100 YOURWILLIAMSON.COM | December 2015

“An exceptional owner experience.�

211 Comtide Ct., Franklin, TN 37067 | 888.395.5101 | infinitiofcoolsprings.com