April 2026

New season, new look

26 | HOME FEATURE

With their daughters maturing, Allison and Buddy Allen turned to Lana Zepponi Meyers to refresh their Tunica, MS home.

44 | EXPERIENCE THIS Kara Wall of Live Well 30A takes us through her 3 perfect ways to spend 3 days on 30A.

APRIL 2026 • VOL. 25 NO. 1

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BUSINESS

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There’s something about April that feels like a deep breath — the season settling into itself, light stretching longer across the days, and everything around us coming alive again. It’s the perfect month to refresh our surroundings, celebrate Easter, and plan restful getaways with our family, friends, or a bit of both.

In this issue, we explore a home in the Mississippi Delta that was transformed and refreshed to fit a family’s new empty-nest lifestyle.

Walt Disney World, aka “the most magical place on earth,” is always an unforgettable vacation, no matter the age. From the Magic Kingdom to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios to Animal Kingdom, Disney World offers an adventure for every interest and generation. If the Gulf is calling your name, it doesn’t get much better than a 30A beach getaway. This breathtaking strip is the perfect retreat for girlfriends, families and couples.

Whether you’re planning your next escape or simply bringing your home up to speed for your current stage in life, let this issue be your guide to beauty in everyday living.

Here’s to open windows and longer evenings as the lazy days of summer are right around the corner!

- Margaret Monger, PUBLISHER

New Season , New Look

Withone of their three daughters away at college and another heading that way shortly, Allison and Buddy Allen were ready to refresh their Tunica, MS, home. Says Allison, “We built this house 20 years ago, and we lived happily in it for all that time.

With our girls getting older, we realized there wouldn’t be roller skates on the floors anymore. It was time to regroup and make a change.”

Buddy, the chief cook in the family, wanted to rework the kitchen. He contacted general contractors RKA Construction, who put him in touch with Lana Zepponi Meyers.

The Memphis-based designer was a natural fit for the project thanks to her National Kitchen and Bath Association certification as a specialist.

From their first meeting, Meyers sought to understand exactly how the family used the kitchen, as well as the adjoining pantry and keeping room. “We talked a lot about how this space would function. The Allens really enjoy being in their kitchen. They cook a lot. We thought carefully about how to customize the space to enhance the way they live in their home.”

Function

was definitely important to Allison, but so were aesthetics. She recalls, “I told Lana that if we were going to go through a major renovation, I wanted to walk in and go, ‘Wow, it’s different!’” Meyers’ design elicited that response, replacing the kitchen’s formerly light and white look with a transitional vibe that’s modern and relaxed, yet elegant.

One of the cornerstones for the renovation project was replacing the stained concrete floors. Meyers says the decision to install white oak flooring in a herringbone pattern was made early on in the planning. The geometric arrangement elevates the look of the kitchen and sets it apart from other areas of the home, which now have the same hardwood laid in traditional linear style.

Meyers turned to Old City Millwork to construct cabinetry for the kitchen’s revised floor plan. A builtin refrigerator/freezer now stands where stacked double ovens once were. In place of the original cooktop, a commercial double gas range sits below a custom plaster vent hood surround. A multi-purpose island chock full of useful features perfectly suits the way the Allens work in the space.

Perhaps the best example of how the designer customized the project to her clients sits at the end of the new island. A large walnut cutting board permanently integrated to the countertop is Buddy’s favorite thing in the kitchen, according to Allison. Not merely for show, the accessory is as well used as it was planned. Its convenient placement makes food prep a breeze, while a clever “trap door” feature allows the home chef to scrape waste directly into a trash can thoughtfully situated below the board.

Thekitchen’s color palette is a study in contrasts; crisp white mingled with saturated blue/green, black and brass. Perimeter cabinets painted in Benjamin Moore

Narragansett Green and topped with soapstone counters create a cozy feel. The designer went the opposite direction for the island—light oak with a subtle gray wash, topped with leathered quartzite. The same stone adds beauty and interest on the wall behind the range. Textured subway tile subtly repeats the room’s colors on the backsplash. “We wanted to have a big impact with the tile, so we took it around the window and leaned into the color there, too,” says Meyers.

“There’s a story going on in here; that’s the way I like to think about all the living materials. They’re very tactile and have a softness about them,” says the designer of the natural products she chose for the kitchen. Soapstone, walnut, quartzite and unlacquered brass all show wear with time and use, and Meyers loves the idea of that kind of evolution.

Only a single wall was demolished during the renovation, the one between the kitchen and the pantry. The newly opened area still holds plenty of storage, but also serves as additional space for entertaining. The Allens host family and friends often, so Meyers incorporated a dedicated bar area with a built-in wine cooler, refrigerator drawers, an ice machine and a sink. Here, she drenched all the cabinetry, trim and ceiling with the same dramatic paint color as the kitchen and lined the walls with a textured Phillip Jeffries wallpaper that was another early selection in the planning process. “Allison loved this paper, so it became a starting point for the aesthetic in here,” she explains.

Thespace flows seamlessly into the keeping room, creating a trifecta of beautiful vignettes for entertaining or family time. Meyers kept the furnishings simple to take advantage of the spot’s wealth of light, provided by its three surrounding walls of windows. A low-back, contemporary sectional offers comfortable seating and conversation space without blocking views of the picturesque back yard and pool.

What started as a kitchen remodel expanded in scope as the Allens came to know and trust Meyers. In fact, asked what they thought was the best thing about the experience, both client and designer said it was the new friendship it created. “We didn’t know each other before, and now I feel like Lana is one of my best friends,” says Allison. It’s clear that the two have a comfortable rapport as they describe the living room renovation.

“This is the biggest room in the house, and for 20 years, we never sat in this room, ever. It was so awkward,” says Allison. With the furnishings grouped into two seating arrangements and the television housed in a built-in shelf to the side of the central fireplace, the space felt uncomfortable. Meyers transformed the room, adding the livability and beauty the hub of the home deserved.

New built-in cabinets and shelves reprise the white oak of the kitchen island, and a simple limestone surround encases the large fireplace. Meyers says she bucked a design trend that eschews placing a television over the mantel. “This was the best place to put it so people could enjoy it,” she explains, “and because it’s a [Samsung] Frame TV it functions as art when it’s not being used.”

New furnishings complete the makeover. Meyers revamped the layout to a single conversation area with plenty of seating: a neutral sofa jazzed up with accent pillows in coral tones as well as Schumacher’s classic Rolling Hills pattern; a pair of green velvet swivel chairs that can turn to face the sofa or the TV; and twin club chairs with exposed legs in a warm finish that echoes the tones of the burl wood coffee table. In an artful juxtaposition of time periods and styles, Meyers placed a modern alabaster lamp atop an ornate pedestal side table that belonged to Buddy’s grandmother. An original gouache painting by Memphis artist Maysey Craddock completes the decor.

Meyers also applied her talents to two of the home’s bathrooms, giving one of the girls’ baths a spruce up and mounting a larger remodel in the primary bath. “Allison said, ‘We’re a house of girls. We’re not afraid of the bathroom being feminine.’ So we’ve really leaned into it,” says the designer. From the soft rose tones of the wallpaper and the Lauren Matsumoto collage painting to the marble arabesque floor tiles to the custom shower curtain, the space exudes subtle femininity.

Bold and of-the-moment, the new primary bath blends dark, dramatic elements with clean white in perfect balance. The room’s original cabinetry found new life coated in Mysterious, a rich navy from Benjamin Moore, and dressed up with new brass hardware. Black Nero Marquina marble countertops take the handsome factor up a notch. Meyers repeated the stone on the shower walls, making the space a focal point. Hex tile floors in a scale a bit larger than the traditional add geometric interest—a bonus is that they are also heated. In place of the room’s original clawfoot tub now stands a sleek contemporary soaking tub with floormounted filler. While Allison loves the new tub, she’s happy its predecessor didn’t end up in the landfill. She says, “Now it’s in my second-grade classroom as a reading nook. The kids love it!”

With a fresh look and new functionality, the Allen home is ready to see the family into the new season of life and beyond.

With a background in the art world, Lana Zepponi Meyers combines her creative instincts with the technical skills necessary to successfully design kitchens, baths and all aspects of residential interiors. After completing her college education Meyers worked for an art fair production firm in New York. Eventually, her love for modernism led her to study design at Parsons The New School for Design. Upon her return to the Mid South she honed her skills working in both high-end furnishings and luxury kitchen and bath design. In 2021 she established her own firm, specializing in residential interiors. She has completed projects in New York City, Memphis and Mississippi.

For more than 80 years, the name Baltz & Sons Concrete has been synonymous with craftsmanship in the Memphis area. Today, that legacy continues through Baltz Design, a rebranded company that has evolved beyond concrete into full-service outdoor living. We sat down with owner Kevin Baltz to discuss the company’s history, its evolution and what continues to drive it forward.

AT HOME MEMPHIS AND MID SOUTH: Can you give us a brief history of your company?

Kevin Baltz: Baltz & Sons Concrete began nearly 80 years ago as a family-owned concrete business. Over the decades, we poured foundations, driveways and decorative finishes across Memphis. As our scope of services expanded in recent years, we evolved into a full design-and-build firm, transforming outdoor spaces into cohesive living environments, guided by four generations of experience.

AHMMS: What drove you to make this transition?

KB: We saw a clear need. To reflect that growth, we rebranded as Baltz Design to better represent our broader range of services while still honoring the legacy of Baltz & Sons. Clients wanted more than concrete; they wanted seamless, complete outdoor transformations. Today, we provide a single point of contact, from thoughtful, informed design through construction, creating spaces where families and friends truly enjoy spending time together.

We now offer all aspects of outdoor living, including enclosed and covered spaces, poolscapes, outdoor kitchens, fireplaces and fire pits, terraces and masonry. We design functional environments where people truly live.

AHMMS: What philosophy drives your approach?

KB: Our core philosophy is creating spaces where people want to live and connect, not just structures. We approach every project by asking, “What would we do if this were our home?” Construction can present challenges, and we’ve seen how contractor/client relationships can become adversarial. We focus instead on partnerships, working together toward a shared goal.

With 80 years of craftsmanship behind us, we combine proven building methods with innovative practices and quality materials. The greatest compliment we receive is to hear that our clients not only love the spaces we create, but that they enjoyed the process, as well. That tradition of enduring craftsmanship and lasting relationships continues to drive us forward.

901.465.4337 | info@baltzconcrete.com | www.baltzdesign.com

Taylor & John Louis BLAND

OF COORDINATOR: LACHERIE WEDDINGS &

THREE PERFECT WAYS TO SPEND THREE DAYS ON 30 A

BY KARA WALL, LIVE WELL MEMBER

The sun dips toward the Gulf as families pedal past on beach cruisers along quiet, palmlined streets. Just beyond the dunes, waves roll onto sugar-white sand while the water glows a brilliant shade of turquoise.

This is the rhythm of life along Florida’s Scenic Highway 30A.

I grew up vacationing along the Florida Panhandle, but my first visit to 30A more than a decade ago introduced me to a different kind of beach experience. Now, as a Live Well member, I’ve discovered an even better way to enjoy it: returning often, exploring like a local and letting Live Well concierge services handle the details.

Along this stretch of coastline, beach towns are designed for slowing down. Streets are walkable, cycling replaces car rides, and coffee shops, restaurants and beach boardwalks tuck charmingly into neighborhoods by the sea.

Whether you’re new to 30A or returning to a favorite spot, the experience can feel entirely different depending on where you stay. Here are three ways to spend three unforgettable days along the coast—perfect for families, a girls’ getaway or a romantic escape.

FAMILY ADVENTURE IN SEAGROVE BEACH

For families, Seagrove Beach offers the perfect balance of convenience and relaxation. Located next to Seaside, it provides easy access to restaurants, bike trails, and beautiful beaches while still feeling like a quiet coastal neighborhood.

One of my favorite things about traveling here as a Live Well member is arriving to find everything already arranged—groceries stocked, bikes ready for morning rides, and beach gear waiting for the kids.

DAY ONE: GOLDEN HOUR

After settling into your beach house, keep the first evening simple. Head straight to the beach for golden hour.

Grab pizza from Angelina’s Pizzeria & Pasta , a longtime Seagrove favorite, and bring it to the sand. Set up backpack chairs and a blanket while the kids run along the shoreline and the sun slowly sinks toward the Gulf. It’s the perfect way to shake off the travel day and ease into vacation mode.

DAY TWO: BIKES, BEACH, AND ICE CREAM

Start the morning with a family bike ride to The Perfect Pig Grill and Fish House for coffee and breakfast—try the Gulf Hash or French toast with strawberry butter. Biking along Scenic Highway 30A in the morning light quickly becomes a vacation tradition.

After breakfast, pack a cooler with lunch and spend a few hours swimming, paddleboarding, and enjoying the turquoise water. Later, return to the house for a dip in the pool and some downtime before dinner.

That evening, make reservations at Old Florida Fish House , a lively waterfront restaurant overlooking Eastern Lake. Before heading home, stop by Pecan Jack’s Ice Cream, a local favorite, and order the Oreo— loaded with so many crushed cookies it goes far beyond ordinary cookies and cream.

DAY THREE: CREATIVITY AND COASTAL FUN

Grab coffee and breakfast from Turbo Coffee and take it to the beach. Early mornings on 30A are calm and beautiful, with seashells scattered along the shoreline. Later, drive to Grayton Beach to visit Rock Paper Scissors 30A , a walk-in art studio where kids can choose a craft project and create something F un to take home.

For dinner, bike to Seaside and grab a table at Bud & Alley’s , where sweeping Gulf views make it one of the most iconic dining spots on 30A. For something more casual, pick-up dinner from one of Seaside’s famous food trucks and stroll to the beach for sunset.

GIRLS’ GETAWAY IN INLET BEACH

For a long weekend with friends, Inlet Beach offers the perfect mix of relaxed beach days and lively evenings. With wide stretches of shoreline and easy access to Rosemary Beach and 30Avenue, it’s an ideal home base for a girls’ getaway.

DAY ONE: MARGARITAS AND SUNSET

Kick off the trip with happy hour at Amigos 30A , known for its festive atmosphere, margaritas, and queso. Afterward, bike down to Inlet Beach for sunset. The shoreline here is wide and open, making it one of the most beautiful spots along 30A to watch the sky change colors.

DAY TWO: COFFEE, SHOPPING, AND BONFIRES

Start the morning with a bike ride to Alys Beach for coffee and breakfast at Fonville Press. With its white architecture and palm-lined courtyards, the town feels almost Mediterranean.

Spend some time browsing the boutiques before heading back toward Inlet Beach for a relaxed afternoon at the beach. An insider tip: order charcuterie boxes before you arrive, pack a cooler with drinks, and enjoy the afternoon by the water.

As evening approaches, gather for a Live Well member bonfire on the beach . Watching the flames glow during golden hour while waves roll in nearby is one of those simple moments that becomes a highlight of the trip.

For dinner, head to Shades Bar and Grill , known for fresh seafood. The Volcano Shrimp and house-smoked tuna dip are can’t-miss favorites.

DAY THREE: BOATING AND HIBACHI

Start the final morning with breakfast at The Donut Hole , an iconic local favorite. Then head down to the beach, settle into your chairs, and savor a slow morning by the water.

Later, your Live Well travel planner can arrange a half-day pontoon boat rental—an easy way to explore the surrounding waters. With music playing and the Gulf breeze in the air, a boat day with friends is the perfect way to soak in the last hours of your getaway.

For your final dinner, try something unforgettable— Mr. Hibachi at Home , a mobile hibachi chef who brings the full dining experience straight to your vacation house.

ROMANTIC ESCAPE IN ROSEMARY BEACH

For couples, Rosemary Beach offers an entirely different pace. With cobblestone streets, European-inspired architecture, and hidden courtyards, the town feels romantic, walkable, and quietly elegant.

DAY ONE: DINNER WITH A VIEW

After settling into your cottage, head to Pescado Seafood Grill & Rooftop Bar and request a seat on the outdoor patio. With sweeping Gulf views and craft cocktails in hand, it’s one of the best sunset spots along 30A.

DAY TWO: COFFEE, BEACH, AND ROOFTOP LUNCH

Start your day with a lovely walk through Rosemary’s wooded streets to Amavida Coffee Roasters for coffee and breakfast tacos. After coffee, stop by The Hidden Lantern Bookstore to pick up a novel for the beach.

Spend the morning relaxing in beach chairs on Rosemary Beach while the sound of waves sets the pace of the day.

Later, enjoy lunch at Havana Beach Rooftop at The Pearl Hotel overlooking Rosemary Beach’s iconic green space and coastline. Relax afterward with a swim at the Barbados Pool , one of the town’s quietest spots.

That evening, enjoy a romantic dinner at Gallion’s , where the butter candle appetizer and carrot cake are local favorites.

DAY THREE: BEACHSIDE BRUNCH

Sleep in and grab Playa Bowls and coffee to take to the beach for a relaxed brunch by the water. Go for a beach walk or read your novel with your toes in the sand.

For the afternoon, go for a couples massage at Vivo Spa or a round of golf set up by your Live Well trip planner.

Before leaving, return to the beach for one final sunset. Bring a bottle of wine and a small charcuterie board for a beachside happy hour.

End the evening with dinner at Restaurant Paradis , followed by dessert tapas at La Crema . Strolling back through lantern-lit streets with the sound of waves in the distance is the perfect ending to your trip.

THE MAGIC OF 30A

No matter how you spend your three days on 30A, there’s something special about this stretch of coastline. The moments that stay with you aren’t complicated ones—they’re sunset views, morning coffee by the water, and laughter around the table after a long day in the sun.

And somehow, before the trip is even over, you’re already dreaming about the next one.

ABOUT LIVE WELL VACATION CLUB

The Live Well Vacation Club includes 14 nights each year in upscale vacation homes across more than 50 destinations—from Florida’s 30A to the mountains of Vail and the islands of the Caribbean. There’s no expensive buy-in, no timeshare contract, and no long-term commitment—just a flexible membership designed to make luxury travel easy whenever your schedule allows.

Members enjoy concierge trip planning, destination recommendations, and travel perks designed to make vacations seamless and memorable. All of the experiences mentioned in this article—coolers, beach chairs, pontoon rentals, etc. —can be arranged through Live Well rewards on 30A.

Scan the QR code below to learn more and access an exclusive offer for At Home readers.

DISNEY REIMAGINED: A

MULTIGENERATIONAL

DREAM WITH

WALT DISNEY WORLD AND DISNEY CRUISE LINE

ARTICLE AND PICTURES PROVIDED BY BARBARA MAY, OWNER OF TRAVEL LEADERS

For many families, a Disney vacation is a rite of passage. In 2026, Disney is no longer simply about character meet-and-greets or nostalgic attractions. It has evolved into something deeper—more immersive, more elevated and beautifully designed for every generation traveling together.

Today’s Disney experience blends storytelling with luxury, technology with ease, and high-energy adventure with meaningful togetherness. Whether exploring the parks of Walt Disney World or sailing aboard Disney Cruise Line, families are discovering the experience has been thoughtfully reimagined for grandparents, parents, children and even couples seeking different experiences.

This is the new Disney; layered, intentional and ideal for multigenerational travel.

WALT DISNEY WORLD: MORE THAN A THEME PARK

Standing before Cinderella Castle stirs something timeless. Fireworks illuminate the sky, music swells and generations pause together in awe. That magic remains, but today’s Walt Disney World offers far more than classic attractions.

Each of the four theme parks boasts a distinct personality that appeals across ages:

• Magic Kingdom deliv ers nostalgia in its purest form. Grandparents point out attractions they first experienced decades ago, while grandchildren discover them for the first time.

• EPCO T has grown into a favorite for adults and grandparents, particularly during its internationally celebrated festivals featuring culinary artistry, fine wines, global culture and live entertainment.

• Hollyw ood Studios immerses guests in cinematic storytelling that rivals blockbuster films, from Star Wars adventures to Pixar favorites and now the Emmy Award-winning short film Once Upon a Studio

• Animal Kingdom blends c onservation, culture and breathtaking landscapes with attractions that resonate with teens and adults alike.

Disney today offers high-energy thrills, quiet luxury, immersive lands and refined dining, all within one destination. Parents appreciate the organization and security. Children are swept into the wonder. Grandparents enjoy comfort, accessibility and entertainment that connects past and present.

THE MULTIGENERATIONAL DREAM

Few destinations manage multi-generational travel as seamlessly as Disney.

Resort accommodations are thoughtfully categorized. Value, Moderate, Deluxe and Deluxe Villas allow families to select the style and comfort level that fits their needs. For larger groups, two- and three-bedroom villas are ideal with full kitchens, spacious living areas and private bedrooms. After a full day in the parks, everyone can gather comfortably under one roof.

Disney’s buses, boats, monorails and the Skyliner make navigating the property surprisingly simple. Accessibility services, Rider Switch options and advanced planning tools reduce stress and maximize shared time.

What truly defines a multigenerational Disney vacation isn’t logistics, it’s moments. A grandfather holding his granddaughter’s hand during fireworks. A mother and daughter laughing together on a nostalgic attraction they first rode decades ago. Three generations seated around a restaurant table celebrating a milestone birthday.

Disney is one of the rare places where toddlers, teens, parents and grandparents genuinely find something meaningful.

LUXURY AT THE MOST MAGICAL PLACE ON EARTH

While many still associate Disney with traditional family travel, there is an elevated side that continues to surprise even seasoned vacationers. Deluxe resorts such as the Grand Floridian, Riviera and Polynesian Village offer refined theming, spacious accommodations and premium amenities. Club Level access includes private lounges, concierge services and curated culinary offerings throughout the day.

Dining has also reached new heights. Victoria & Albert’s has earned Michelin recognition, introducing Disney into the world of fine dining. Signature restaurants such as California Grill and Topolino’s Terrace rival culinary experiences in major cities. For families celebrating milestone anniversaries, birthdays or reunions, private VIP tours provide dedicated guides who customize park days, minimize wait times and maximize shared experiences. Luxury at Disney isn’t about excess, it’s about comfort layered with storytelling.

DISNEY CRUISE LINE: THE PERFECT COMPLEMENT

For families who love Disney but crave a more relaxed pace, Disney Cruise Line offers an extraordinary complement or alternative to the parks. The line’s expanding fleet continues to impress with innovative dining concepts, immersive entertainment spaces and beautifully appointed staterooms designed specifically for families. Rotational dining transforms dinner into an experience, with themed restaurants and storytelling woven into each evening.

One of the Disney’s greatest strengths is its ability to cater to every generation simultaneously:

• Children e xplore expansive, themed youth clubs.

• Teens enjo y dedicated lounges and social activities.

• Adults re treat to quiet pools, exclusive restaurants and spa experiences.

• Grandpar ents appreciate unpacking once while visiting multiple destinations. Stops at private islands including Castaway Cay add pristine beaches and turquoise waters to the journey.

Summer 2027 itineraries expand the possibilities even further. The Disney Wish will make its European debut, while Alaska sailings return aboard Disney Magic and Disney Wonder. Caribbean favorites continue from Port Canaveral and Fort Lauderdale, and the Disney Adventure remains based in Singapore with unique all-at-sea itineraries.

Unlike many cruise experiences, Disney maintains a refined, premium feel combining exceptional service with imaginative storytelling.

WHY COMBINING LAND & SEA WORKS SO WELL

Many families are now pairing Walt Disney World with a Disney Cruise Line sailing, and the combination is seamless. The parks bring excitement, energy and immersion. The cruise offers balance, relaxation and intentional togetherness.

After days filled with attractions and fireworks, families transition into leisurely mornings at sea. Grandparents unwind poolside while children dive into youth activities. Parents savor an adults-only dinner knowing their children are happily engaged nearby.

DISNEY REIMAGINED FOR TODAY’S FAMILIES

In 2026, Disney is no longer simply a childhood vacation. It is:

• Luxur y woven into storytelling.

• Dining that riv als major cities.

• Accessibility that w elcomes every generation.

• Shared e xperiences that become family lore for decades. For milestone celebrations, reunions, anniversaries or simply meaningful time together, Disney offers something rare; the ability to delight grandparents and toddlers at the same time. That is the true magic.

A THOUGHTFUL APPROACH TO PLANNING

Planning a Walt Disney World or Disney Cruise Line vacation for a multigenerational family requires coordination, timing and trusted insight. Travel Leaders Collierville brings more than 40 years of expertise to designing seamless, customized Disney vacations tailored to every generation at the table. From selecting the ideal resort or stateroom to securing dining reservations, festival experiences, VIP tours and private island adventures, Travel Leaders professionals thoughtfully handle every detail. For more information or to plan a Disney vacation, call 901.853.6200 or make an appointment for an in-office consultation at 1125 Poplar View Lane S. #3, Collierville, TN.

Chicken Kabobs

SUMMERTIME CHICKEN KABOBS

There's something about kabobs that just feels like summer—bright, colorful and full of fresh herbs. Juicy chicken meets crisp peppers and onions, all tossed together with a hint of garlic and spice. Perfect for backyard picnics, family gatherings or any weeknight that deserves a fun, flavorful plate.

INGREDIENTS

3–4 BONELESS, SKINLESS CHICKEN BREASTS, CUT INTO 1–1½-INCH CUBES

2 GREEN BELL PEPPERS, CUBED

1 RED BELL PEPPER, CUBED

1 YELLOW BELL PEPPER, CUBED

1 LARGE RED ONION, CUBED

3 TABLESPOONS OLIVE OIL

¾ CUP FRESH CILANTRO, CHOPPED

¾ CUP FRESH PARSLEY, CHOPPED

6 CLOVES GARLIC, MINCED

1½ TEASPOONS KOSHER SALT

1 TEASPOON BLACK PEPPER

1 TEASPOON PAPRIKA

1½ TEASPOONS GARLIC POWDER

½ TEASPOON DRIED THYME

½ TEASPOON RED PEPPER FLAKES

8–10 WOODEN OR METAL SKEWERS

INSTRUCTIONS

If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before you start. Cube the chicken into 1-inch pieces and cut the bell peppers and red onion into similar-sized chunks. Finely chop the parsley and cilantro, and mince the garlic — these fresh flavors are what make the kabobs pop. Toss the chicken, peppers, red onion, parsley, cilantro and garlic into a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with—salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, thyme and red pepper flakes. Mix everything together really well (the easiest way to get it fully combined is by mixing with clean hands). Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes. Thread the chicken and vegetables onto skewers, alternating pieces as you like. Fire up the grill and cook, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. You want the kabobs lightly charred, but still juicy. Serve these flavor-packed kabobs warm with Parmesan couscous, smashed potatoes, a fresh salad or whatever summer side you love!

Made by Molly is my little corner for sharing recipes, moments and meals that feel like home. Follow along for food that’s never boring.

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Intuition and Innovation in Well-being

BY MICHELLE JOHNS

In my early 20s I was a single mom with two children working a full-time job and trying to complete a college degree. Intuitively, I knew I needed to take care of myself if I was going to provide any semblance of a stable and good life for my children. With limited financial, time and human capital resources, I had to create space and time in my home for daily self-care.

At the time, my knowledge of whole-being wellness was also limited, though I was not aware. I identified two important areas of my life in which I wanted to prioritize wellness. The first and most important to me was my spiritual well-being and the second was my physical body. I had identified what was important to me; I then had to figure out how to integrate time with God and physical exercise into my daily schedule.

I worked from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and went to school a couple of nights a week or on Saturdays. I cooked dinner most nights and outside of work and school my children were my priority. I had a no phone call or television rule for myself from the time I got

off work to their bedtime. The reality was that my time was very limited both because of external obligations and personal beliefs.

Because taking care of myself and my family were both important to me, I realized the only time I had available was early morning. I made the decision to get up an hour earlier, at 5 a.m. From 5 to 6 a.m. I read my Bible, prayed and did a home workout with a DVD video as my personal coach.

Fast forward 34 years and intuition is still the main force that guides my healthcare decisions. However, the advancement of research and technology has increased my access to knowledge and resources a thousand times over. Despite those advancements, time is the biggest barrier that limits most people from prioritizing selfcare. The other major barriers are knowing how to apply the abundance of knowledge, what to prioritize and which technology to incorporate.

If you find barriers influencing your wellbeing you have to first establish your level of commitment to your personal care. Then establish your needs and determine how to integrate personal well-being into your daily

routine. My decision to start with spiritual and physical well-being was rooted in knowing they played a significant role in the state of my mental health. What’s important to you?

Choose one or two practices to help you optimize your daily well-being. Do a little research on how to get started and integrate them into your schedule.

Technology can be overwhelming, but when we impose limitations on the way we use it, it can be a useful resource. I use technology to help me with healthcare (the clinical care for my body) and well-being (the quality of how I feel and function); it helps guide my daily practices. I impose limits on my technology use so it doesn’t overwhelm me or influence me in a way that creates anxiety.

With limited time being the largest contributing factor to self-care, artificial intelligence can be a great resource in helping you map a schedule. I recently needed help scheduling a daily routine, so I asked AI to help me figure out a schedule to make sure a few weekly tasks were completed. I gave it parameters of what was important to me and my available time blocks. I named the constraints I was facing and instructed AI not to give me advice, but to present options. The schedule it created has helped prevent me from neglecting parts of my well-being that are important to me by helping me find time to include them daily.

On the flip side, I used to have an Oura ring. It was useful in tracking health statistics such as heart rate variability, sleep

optimization and physical movement. While sleep optimization is important and I do all I can to ensure I am getting quality sleep, monitoring my sleep patterns using the Oura ring created anxiety for me. I found myself placing too much value on the daily measures, so I had to quit using it. For others, it may be useful to encourage and motivate better health patterns.

As I read more on the future of wellness and technology, two things stand out. One is that technology will continue to advance. Time-saving technology such as telehealth and at-home monitoring devices will be integrated into our personal spaces at home and on our bodies. Secondly, though technology is advancing, many people are shifting their focus from data-driven technical optimization of their personal biometrics, relying instead on their daily experiences. “How alive do I feel?” is the question to be answered and the answer may lie in intuitive monitoring.

Michelle R. Johns, Owner MA, LPC-MHSP, NCC, 500 CYT Transforming Wellness, LLC Germantown, TN & Oxford, MS www.transforming-wellness.com 901.258.3619

When Movement Becomes Medicine

WHY PHYSICAL THERAPISTS ENCOURAGE SAFE MOVEMENT, EVEN AFTER INJURY, PAIN OR SPINE PROCEDURES.

Text Courtesy of Torie Finch

WHEN people are injured or living with spine pain, the instinct is often to move less. But physical therapist Ben Graves often repeats a simple phrase that has come to be his mantra.

“Movement is medicine,” says Graves, director of physical therapy at Semmes Murphey, a brain and spine institute in Memphis. “Physical therapy isn’t only about exercise. It’s about helping people maintain independence, confidence and quality of life.”

Graves’ physical therapy department is one part of the clinic’s Whole Spine Care™ approach. Treating spine conditions such as neck and back pain often requires a team capable of approaching the problem from several angles, and tailoring care to each individual patient. That care can range from conservative treatments like physical therapy and pain management to advanced surgical options when necessary. Though Semmes Murphey is a neurosurgery-based practice, its physicians note that about nine out of ten patients with lower back pain improve without surgery, and they credit physical therapy with playing a major role in that recovery.

WHY MOVEMENT MATTERS, EVEN WHEN YOU’RE IN PAIN

When people are injured or in pain, the natural instinct is often to stop moving altogether. But avoiding movement for too long can cause the body to become weaker, stiffer and more limited. Physical therapy helps patients safely reintroduce movement, allowing the body to rebuild strength and confidence.

This principle applies even after many neck and back surgeries. Doctors often encourage patients to begin gentle movement and walking as soon as it is safe. Research on spine surgery recovery has shown that early mobilization can reduce complications and improve recovery.¹

Physical therapy is built around the idea that the right kind of movement can help restore strength, improve mobility and support longterm health.

HOW MOVEMENT HELPS THE BODY HEAL

Chronic spine conditions and neurological disorders often affect how the body moves. Pain, stiffness or weakness can cause people to limit their activity, which can lead to even more limitations over time.

Physical therapy helps break that cycle by guiding patients through safe, intentional movements that strengthen muscles, restore flexibility and retrain the body to move more efficiently. The body also has a remarkable ability to adapt. Through consistent, targeted movement, patients can develop healthier movement patterns that improve balance, mobility and overall function.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN PHYSICAL THERAPY

At its best, physical therapy should feel like training for the life you want to live—whether that means getting back to running, lifting a toddler comfortably, gardening or simply moving through the day without pain. Keep in mind that every injury and body moves differently, so effective physical therapy programs are typically individualized to adapt as a patient progresses.

When choosing a physical therapy program, look for:

• Individualized treatment plans tailored to your condition and goals

• Functional movement training that prepares you for everyday activities

• Direct one-on-one guidance from a physical therapist rather than group sessions.

• Coordination with physicians or specialists when spine issues are involved.

At Semmes Murphey Clinic, these principles guide the physical therapy program. Patients work oneon-one with a therapist during their entire journey, allowing treatment to be fully tailored to their condition and recovery goals.

Because movement plays such an important role in recovery, many physicians encourage patients to begin physical therapy early in their treatment process. Improving strength, stability and mobility can reduce pain and restore function. For many people, learning how to move safely and confidently again becomes one of the most important steps in returning to everyday life. The phrase “movement is medicine” may sound simple, but it reflects a powerful truth about how the body heals. With the right guidance, movement can reduce pain, restore function and help people stay active and independent for years to come.

1. Adogwa O, et al. Early Ambulation Decreases Length of Hospital Stay, Perioperative Complications, and Improves Functional Outcomes in Elderly Patients Undergoing Spine Surgery. Journal of Spine Surgery. Available at: https:// pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28902101/

MARCH 2026 SOURCES

HOME FEATURE

Special Thanks -

TMaggie Clarke Interiors maggieclarkeinteriors.com

Murphy Custom Homes buildmurphy.com

Ross Group Creative rossgroupcreative.com

TRAVEL

Special ThanksTravel Leaders

901.853.6200, 901.377.6600

IN THE GARDEN

Special ThanksMemphis Botanic Garden Membg.org

HEALTHY YOU

Special ThanksMichelle Johns mjohns@transformingwellness.com Club Pilates

Lp.clubpilates.com

IN THE KITCHEN

Special ThanksMade by Molly @__madebymolly

ON A GOOD NOTE

Special ThanksMemphis Youth Athletics memphisyouthathletics.org

Josephine Circle, Inc.

Josephine Circle, Inc. was founded in 1914 by Josephine Millsaps Fitzhugh, and to this very day the members continue the good works and mission about which she dreamed and paved the way: to provide scholarships and interest-free loans to young men and women who need financial assistance for their college education.

Josephine Fitzhugh was a trailblazer and an early champion of the welfare of young girls in the juvenile court system in Memphis. She encouraged friends to join her in providing support for them. Her interest in education came from her father, who founded Millsaps College in Jackson, MS. That legacy continued when she married Guston T. Fitzhugh, whose grandfather founded Belhaven College, also in Jackson. Her vision and labor of love created the group that is now one of Memphis’ most active charitable organizations for deserving college students.

Benjamin Franklin once said, “an investment in knowledge pays the best interest.” Josephine Circle gives a $2,500 interest-free loan to college and graduate students for each semester of their education, up to a total of $20,000. The group has established endowed scholarships of $100,000 each to Rhodes College, the University of Memphis College of Education, and the University of Tennessee Health Science Center College for Dental Hygiene. Endowed scholarships of $50,000

STORY BY LESLEY COLVETT

each have also been awarded to the School of Nursing and Physician’s Assistant programs at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center.

Funding for these scholarships comes through fundraising projects and donations from throughout the community. Josephine Circle members certainly have fun and festive ways of fundraising. The organization's annual Luncheon and Fashion Show has always been a special social event that ladies look forward to attending each spring. Guests enjoy a first look at the season’s fashions provided by fabulous local boutiques, and bid on wonderful auction items, all to help deserving students pursue their academic dreams with help from the Josephine Circle Loan and Scholarship Program.

This year, Josephine Circle is switching gears from the luncheon and fashion show fundraiser to a party set for April 17 at Ridgeway Country Club. “The Art of Rock & Roll” will be a night of bidding on silent and live auction items, dinner and dancing to the live entertainment by Jason D. Williams, all to benefit the Loan and Scholarship Fund. Chairman of the Gala is Toni Rutledge and Co-Chairmen are Scarlett Montesi and Michele Merritt. Liz Thomas is president of the 65-member organization.