Congratulations to Ole Miss Football on an unforgettable playoff run. Thank you for the memories!
Hot Chocolate Happiness
Warm up with friends, family and hot cocoa drinks made even sweeter with a full spread of creative treats.
Church Goin Mule
Hope and love are brought to life by a trademark mule in a Southern painter’s sought-after artwork.
Coach Yo Reloading
The head coach of the Ole Miss women’s basketball program talks sports and life.
A Quiet Case for Hygge
From cozy corners to candelit evenings, this Danish practice shows how small choices at home can bring warmth and calm during winter’s slowest stretch.
Warm up this winter with homemade hot chocolate and sugar cookies. For original recipes and fun serving tips, see page 40.
OUR TAKE WITH
Months ago, we decided that we’d “share the love” with our readers this month. We had some ideas about what stories we would tell. Stories about how positivity and loving ourselves is important this time of year. Inside, you’ll find directions for warming up with a yummy hot chocolate bar (page 40), be introduced to artist Church Goin Mule (page 46) and learn about the Danish philosophy of “hygge” and how to incorporate it into your life (page 58).
What we didn’t know when we began planning this magazine was that a group of young men who love playing the game of football would become the biggest story of the new year, with its chapters unfolding right here at home.
The Ole Miss football team touched a lot of hearts and shared a lot of love with both lifelong fans and brand-new Rebel supporters over the last several months. The determination and joy these players brought into the 2025 College Football Playoffs is a story that’s hard not to fall in love with. It’s a story of courage, strength, relentlessness and love for the game and each other, and it moved people across the nation. All of us fans feel so privileged that we got to be part of that story, too. See more on page 30.
We think you will love this issue. Thanks for reading our magazine — we love you for your support and for picking us up each month.
PUBLISHER
Rachel West
EDITORIAL
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
Emily Welly
EVENTS EDITOR AND SOCIAL MEDIA
COORDINATOR
Meg Kennedy
FOOD EDITOR
Sarah Godwin
COPY EDITOR
Ashley Arthur
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Lena Anderson
Dawn Denham
Eugene Stockstill
OFFICE
BUSINESS MANAGER
Hollie Dalton
DISTRIBUTION
Allen Baker
Brian Hilliard
MAIN OFFICE
662-234-4008
ART CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Bryan Nigh
SENIOR EDITORIAL
PHOTOGRAPHER
Joe Worthem
CONTRIBUTING
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Elsie Jane Adams
Rebekah Clayton
Bruce Newman
Lisa Roberts
ADVERTISING
ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS
Alise Emerson
Leigh Lowery
Lynn McElreath
Clifton Odom
Keith Rainer
Moni Simpson
Whitney Worsham
ADVERTISING DESIGNERS
Paul Gandy
Markka Bartlett
Ryan Strickland
For advertising information, contact ads@invitationoxford.com.
To subscribe to one year (10 issues) or to buy an announcement, visit invitationmag.com.
To request a photographer at your event, email invitationmag.events@gmail.com.
Invitation Magazines respects the many diverse individuals and organizations that make up north Mississippi and strives to be inclusive and representative of all members of our community.
THE TALENT
SARAH GODWIN
FOOD EDITOR AND ILLUSTRATOR
Sarah Godwin is an Oxford native and Ole Miss alum. Sarah works full time as a watercolor artist, often contributing illustrations for stories. She is also our food editor, and she loves combining her passion for cooking with the creativity of styling photos. She lives in Oxford with her husband, Trevor.
LEIGH LOWRY ADVERTISING CONSULTANT
Leigh Lowry has worked for Invitation Magazines since 2009. She enjoys the relationships that are made through her position as an advertising consultant and finds it rewarding when a client loves their finished product. Leigh and her husband, Dan, have two daughters, one at Ole Miss and one at Oxford High School. When not working, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, going to Pilates and traveling.
HOLLIE HILLIARD DALTON BUSINESS MANAGER
Hollie Hilliard Dalton is a native of Oxford, with more than a decade of experience at Invitation Magazines. She is currently in her 12th year as business manager, overseeing financial and administrative functions. Now living in Louisiana, Hollie and her husband, Jim, share their home with their three dogs — Sage, Louie and Coco. She brings a deep-rooted commitment to her work and community, and she enjoys traveling and spending time with family.
ELSIE JANE ADAMS EVENT PHOTOGRAPHER
Elsie Jane Adams is an event photographer who enjoys capturing sweet memories in Oxford. As a current sophomore at Ole Miss, Elsie Jane uses photography as a creative outlet aside from her pre-med studies. When not snapping photos, Elsie Jane can be found hanging out with friends at the Chi Omega house, studying in the Grove or giving a campus tour.
CELEBRATING 20 YEARS
ISN’T IT LOVELY?
FROM THE INVITATION MAGAZINES
ARCHIVES
To celebrate our anniversary we will rerun favorites from past issues!
Over the years, our February magazine themes have been varied, but almost all of them include stories about love, coziness and things that make us happy. We hope that you have memories of warming up with Invitation in the dreary winter months! Here are some snippets from a few of our favorite February magazines.
HEARTWARMING FEBRUARY STORIES FROM THE PAST
From annual events and fundraisers to local authors and artwork, here are a few February features from the past 20 years that we still love.
“Oxford Film Festival”
February 2010
Oxford Film Festival is a local institution. The big festival itself takes place every February, and the organization has grown to offer year-round programming as well. The festival was featured on our cover in 2010. This year, it takes place Feb. 26-28. Learn more at ox-film.com.
“Warm Up with Local Lit” February 2014
This cozy cover included a few new books by local authors, and inside we visited with them about their personal and unique writing spaces.
Continued from page 19
“Empty Bowls, Full Hearts”
February 2017
For years, we have covered Empty Bowls, a heartwarming fundraiser that has a special place in both the Oxford and Tupelo communities. This year, Oxford’s Empty Bowls event takes place at 11 a.m. Feb. 19 at Oxford Conference Center to benefit The Pantry. In Tupelo, Empty Bowls takes place 11 a.m.-1 p.m. March 4 at Tupelo Furniture Market to benefit the Salvation Army.
“We Love Oxford”
February 2020
Not unlike this 2026 issue, the February 2020 magazine celebrated “love” in several ways: special pets, local art, spring flowers and — interestingly enough — we congratulated the Oxford Chargers high school football team on their recent state championship win!
WE OUR REBELS
PHOTOGRAPHED BY BRUCE NEWMAN
Happiness
WARM UP WITH FRIENDS, FAMILY AND HOT COCOA DRINKS THAT ARE MADE EVEN SWEETER WITH A FULL SPREAD OF CREATIVE TREATS.
AND STYLING
RECIPES
BY SARAH GODWIN PHOTOGRAPHED BY JOE WORTHEM
Whether you’re entertaining neighborhood kids on a cold winter day or hosting a brunch for adults, a hot chocolate bar makes everyone feel welcome, cozy and a bit festive. Here’s how to create a fun spread for people of all ages, complete with a simple homemade hot chocolate recipe.
Continued on page 42
Cut-Out Sugar Cookies
Cookies
1 cup butter, at room temperature
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg, at room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
Milk, if needed
Icing
1 cup powdered sugar
½ teaspoon almond extract
1-2 tablespoons water
Sprinkles
Prepare the cookies: Combine butter and sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer, and beat with the paddle attachment on medium speed until pale and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add egg and vanilla and almond extracts. Beat at medium speed until combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder and salt. With mixer on low speed, gradually add flour mixture, beating until just combined after
Sarah’s Super Simple Hot Chocolate
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
½ cup granulated sugar
8 cups milk, divided
In a medium saucepan, add cocoa and sugar, and whisk to combine. Add 1-2 cups of milk, and whisk until there are no lumps, creating a thick chocolate syrup. Place over medium heat, add remaining milk, and cook whisking constantly until combined. Bring to a light simmer, whisking occasionally. Remove from heat, and serve immediately.
each addition and scraping the bowl as needed. If dough seems dry, beat in milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, until mixture becomes a thick dough.
Divide dough in half, and wrap each half with plastic wrap. Refrigerate at least 1 hour to prevent dough from spreading when baked.
Preheat oven to 350°F. Roll chilled dough to ¼-inch thickness on a floured surface. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes, and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake until cookie edges are just beginning to brown, about 8-12 minutes (do not overbake).
Remove cookies from oven, and let cool on baking sheet 1-2 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before decorating.
Prepare the icing: Whisk together powdered sugar, almond extract and 1 tablespoon water until smooth, adding in additional 1 tablespoon water as needed to thin icing to desired consistency. Spread icing on cookies, top with sprinkles, and allow icing to harden before serving.
Credit: Thanks to Ashley Freeman, owner of Velvet Ditch Villas (@velvet_ditch_villas) for providing the location for this photo shoot.
Tips and Twists
• Hot chocolate is a delicious base, but you could also use freshly brewed coffee or an espresso machine to make lattes instead. Or, consider adding an espresso shot to your hot chocolate.
• Make the hot chocolate right before you plan to serve it. Transfer to a carafe or a coffee dispenser, or serve it with a ladle from the pot on the stove.
• The spread of toppings and mix-ins offered is important and makes any event fun, festive and personalized. Use Mason jars or decorative bowls to serve chocolate chips (milk, white or dark), toffee bits, marshmallows, whipped cream, sprinkles, hot fudge, caramel syrup and more.
• Depending on your guest list, offer the option to spike the hot chocolate with Irish cream, vodka, bourbon or whatever liquor you prefer.
• A variety of coffee syrups is a great addition, too, making it easy for guests to stir in their favorite flavors.
• Chocolate-dipped spoons are a fun feature, and they’re easy to make! Simply dip a spoon in melted chocolate and sprinkle with your favorite toppings. Use the spoons to stir hot chocolate for an even more decadent drink.
• Complete your hot chocolate bar with sweet snacks like seasonal, homemade Cut-Out Sugar Cookies (see recipe at left).
church goin mule
WRITTEN BY DAWN DENHAM PHOTOS BY JOE WORTHEM
HOPE AND LOVE ARE BROUGHT TO LIFE BY A TRADEMARK MULE IN A SOUTHERN PAINTER’S SOUGHT-AFTER ARTWORK.
It’s no wonder I felt as if I knew her before I met her.
First there’s the name, “Church Goin Mule,” which I heard whispered all around me at the One Night Stand art show last fall in Oxford. Then, those ladies making a beeline for Mule’s room down the row of bright red doors. They were seeking painter Marshall Page Blevins — now, DeLoach; she married Delta painter Gerald DeLoach last May
in a tiny church across the street from their home in Alligator outside Clarksdale. Born and raised in Richmond, Virginia, she claims the Mississippi Delta as her heart home since settling here in 2021. And she prefers to be called Church Goin Mule.
Then, there’s the work. Various sized mules always smiling, leaping or winged and flying across wood canvases against a backdrop of Delta images painted in bold and softened primary acrylic colors: A river. Cucumber blossoms. A blues man carrying a guitar. Stars, raindrops, clouds, wild sky. The moon. Crosses. A clothesline. In primitive printed letters crisscrossing her landscapes, Church Goin Mule offers sayings of hope such as “no backbiting,” and “You know it’d break my heart not to carry you with me no more!” inspired by the dialect and messages she first heard as a college student in Kentucky.
You may be thinking it’s folk art, but Church Goin Mule says her work is “Southern graphic,” a blend of regional identity, unique artistic traditions and contemporary graphic design practices. Her centerpiece is the American mule, a “tireless and strong animal” she began painting in college. She’d been drawing horses her whole life, rode and loved them.
“As kids, we played acted like them,” she said.
A confluence of events birthed her muse: professors who discouraged her from continuing to paint horses; the works of Southern writers who wrote about the mule, including Faulkner and Zora Neale Hurston; and seeing the photographs of Amish communities who anthropomorphized mules, setting them in “crazy scenes” such as sitting on a porch or in a truck bed. Mule was made a character, and she wondered what it could do differently.
“The American mule worked for everyone,” she said. “In the mines, the woods, sugar cane, pulling timber and carts, plowing fields, taking people to town. They work harder on less and live longer than horses can and do.”
The more she learned about this “interesting creature,” the more she believed it belongs to the South and is underestimated, misunderstood and taken for granted.
“You know, a mule won’t run into battle like a horse will; it knows its limitations. It’s not willing to kill itself for anybody.”
Her painted stories begin in the music she loves, the blues. Blues man Taj Mahal says, “The blues were born behind a mule” because of the plodding sound it makes; you hear it in Son House, Robert Johnson and Mississippi Fred McDowell.
Continued on page 48
“Faulkner, Hurston, the blues,” she said. “It was all right there, the mule.”
The name “Church Goin Mule” she now uses for her burgeoning business, her muse and even herself (she signs her blog “Mule”) comes from one grandfather who plowed with a mule and another who was a Methodist minister.
Never one to live in the past, she’ll tell you how much she can’t remember about what happened in all the places she’s lived or to the 2,500 paintings she’s completed.
“I feel fortunate that people are nice to me and overwhelmingly respond positively to my work,” she said.
Church Goin Mule knows blues music, and blues men also represent sadness and hard lives. She also knows her work has the potential to evoke the complexity of generational and familial violence and racism.
“But there is also joy,” she said. “I’ve been trying to think about being grateful for abundance, flip the narrative that we have too much, or it is too much.”
Exploring the mule reflects her thinking about belonging.
“That sense of trying to connect happened in Mississippi where I’ve learned so much. I’ve grown up here more than any other time of my life,” she said. “Because people were willing to teach me,” including her husband, DeLoach, who has lived in Alligator his entire life. “He knows how to do everything. Where I came from, people didn’t live like this.”
Her canvases are a proclamation of love,
then, a prayer of gratitude for this land, its people, stories and lessons. Hearts appear all over her canvases.
“I grew up deeply loved,” she said. “The beautiful thing about the Delta is that you have to be patient. The big lesson is in loving people, which is easier to do when you’re curious about things instead of assuming that you know something.”
For Church Goin Mule, the act of making and giving art is the conduit for love.
“I can forgive; we can figure everything else out. Love is beautiful, forgiveness, and grace; and it’s free!”
She didn’t remember who said this, but it was Buster Moon in the movie “Sing”: “When you start singing, other people find their voices.”
Here’s hoping Church Goin Mule never stops singing.
Now Showing Locally
Church Goin Mule’s solo show, “Steadfast to the Land,” is open now through July 23 in the gallery at Rowan Oak (916 Old Taylor Rd., Oxford). The gallery is open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays and 1-4 p.m. Sundays.
Admission to Rowan Oak is $5 (cash only) and free for children under 12, UM Museum members and University of Mississippi students, faculty and staff.
For more information on visiting Rowan Oak, call 662-234-3284 or follow the museum on Instagram @rowanoakofficial or Facebook @RowanOakUM.
Learn more about Church Goin Mule at churchgoinmule.com.
COACH YO RELOADING
THE HEAD OF THE OLE MISS WOMEN’S BASKETBALL PROGRAM TALKS SPORTS AND LIFE.
WRITTEN BY EUGENE STOCKSTILL | PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
BY OLE MISS ATHLETICS
In her time at Ole Miss, Coach Yolett Alessia McPhee-McCuin has taken the women’s basketball team to four straight appearances in the NCAA tournament, and, under her leadership, the team has reached the Sweet 16 two times. So, when we interviewed her at the end of last year just before the season started, expectations were high. As of this writing, the team was ranked seventh in the ultra-competitive SEC and was battling through a tough schedule. Here are some of Coach Yo’s reflections on basketball, this season and her life.
Q: What’s your overall opinion about team rankings?
A: I just really have no opinion about it. While I enjoy the fact that people recognize our players, I try to focus more on what we think, because we’re around each other every day. For me, it’s more important what we think than someone from outside who hasn’t really had a chance to see us yet.
Q: You have some pressure on you this season. As a coach, how do you use that pressure to the team’s advantage?
A: I just think that having pressure is a good thing. I don’t know if people perform their best without it. Pressure either makes you weak or makes you go beyond. Our team really wants that opportunity and looks at it more as a blessing than a curse.
Q: You lost three starters last year but picked up at least eight players through the transfer portal. What does that say about the current state of college athletics?
A: You’ve got to get used to it. As long as these people have freedom of choice, they’re going to do what’s best for them. As coaches and fans, we have to understand that and stick with the ones who stick with us.
Q: What’s it like trying to foster school loyalty since the game has changed so much, thanks to the transfer portal and NIL? Is that an exercise in futility?
A: The fans have to stick with the love of the school. In pro sports, you fall in love with the player. And that’s what’s really cool about college. You can really fall in love with a school. If you get caught up in the player movement, it can break you. For me: Stay present, focus on the ones who are here. They’re here for a reason, and they’re here to win. If one year is all they can give, let’s celebrate them in that time. If four years is all they can give, then they’ll probably get a statue.
Continued on page 54
Q: You have what seems to be a huge following at Ole Miss. How proud does that make you?
A: I love Oxford, and I love the community. And I love the fact that I was able to come here and help bring notoriety back to women’s basketball. We had a little hiatus. This is just a new movement, and when people think of women’s basketball, I want them to mention Ole Miss.
Q: Strategically, how is this team different from last year’s?
A: We felt like we were intentional about filling holes that we had. We’re still athletic. We’re still going to be tough. We shoot the ball pretty well. As we continue to grow, people will be able to see us evolve into who we want to be in March.
Q: Talk a little bit about this year’s schedule.
A: We have some heavy hitters in the nonconference, from conference champions to P-4 schools. That was intentional to kind of expose us and get us ready for conference play. We’re in the best conference in the country. It’s arguable. But just look at the numbers. We have five in the top 10 and eight in the top 25. The best of the best come here. We set it up so that we could have enough competition early to prepare us for conference play.
Q: What are the keys to success this year?
A: It’s going to be buying into our roles and all of us staying together through adversity. It’s going to be being able to celebrate the small wins and also live for today. Stay focused on the present.
Q: How has your approach to the game changed since you first started coaching? Why?
A: It’s changed a lot because I’m older. I’ve
experienced a lot. I’m really grateful for all the players who have come through. They taught me a lot. The things that I feel like I need to get better at, I focus on, and the things that I do well, I’m going to continue to do, which is to teach, develop and inspire the youth.
"
When people think of women's basketball, I want them to mention Ole Miss. "
Q: What’s it like trying to inspire team play in this day and age?
A: It’s easy. You just teach them about life and the power of unity but also the power of them finding their own individual mode and adding it to the group. That’s important if you want to live in this society. No one wants to live alone. And that’s what team sports allow them to do, to live and work and excel with other people.
Q: You’ve been quoted as saying, ‘We don’t really replace, we kind of reload.’ What do you mean by that?
A: We don’t ever want to have to replace players. Players are going to leave. That’s a part of collegiate athletics. That’s life. You have a
time when you get to be a part of someone’s life, and then they leave. That is just what happens. We don’t try to replace them. We want to reload with the same kind of people who have the same kind of goals, who want to do the same kind of things that the group before them did.
Q: You coach the Bahamian national team. What’s it like juggling two competitive teams?
A: It’s a blast. It’s two different seasons, two different types. The national team has way older players. They’re already professionals, the majority of them. In college, you have an opportunity to shape 18- to 20-year-olds. The game is still the same. They’re just at two different phases of their lives.
Q: On a more personal note, what was it like transitioning from the Bahamas to the U.S.?
A: It was a challenge, but it has made me who I am. My roots stay with me. I’ll never forget where I’m from. Coming to the United States … has introduced me to different cultures, different environments, different beliefs and has helped me become the person I am today.
Q: What’s it like for you and your family living in Oxford? Do you ever hear ‘Hey, Coach Yo!’ around town?
A: We love it. We’re engrossed in the family, in the community. My daughter plays soccer and basketball. I’m at PTA meetings, and I’m also in the community through my foundation. We’re well known in the Oxford community. We love it here. We feel like they love us here, and we love them back. I don’t think I can go out of my house without saying hello or taking a picture. I’ll always be grateful for that.
A QUIET CASE FOR HYGGE
FROM COZY CORNERS TO CANDLELIT EVENINGS, THIS DANISH PRACTICE SHOWS HOW SMALL CHOICES AT HOME CAN BRING WARMTH AND CALM DURING WINTER’S SLOWEST STRETCH.
FWRITTEN BY LENA ANDERSON | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JOE WORTHEM
ebruary may be the shortest month of the year, but it can often feel the longest. The thrill of the holidays is behind us, the days still have more hours of darkness than light, and the overall dreariness of winter has fully set in. People are going out less and staying home more, prioritizing personal comfort above all else.
In Denmark, this concept is called hygge (pronounced “hoo-ga”). The word doesn’t have a direct English translation, but it loosely means
“coziness.” Finding warmth and ease during long, cold seasons. A way of paying attention to what makes life feel steady and good.
In his book, “The Little Book of Hygge: Danish Secrets to Happy Living,” Meik Wiking explains that hygge is less about things and more about atmosphere and presence. The goal is not perfection, but comfort. It’s soft light, warm drinks, shared food and time that doesn’t feel rushed. It is the sense that, for now, in this space and time, things are okay.
Hygge is a mindset first, but its tangible components can be integrated into your home. The spaces we spend the most time in shape how we feel, especially in winter. Small, thoughtful changes can make a room feel calmer and more inviting without much effort. Bringing hygge into your home is not about redecorating. It is about noticing what helps you slow down and lean into comfort. These pieces from north Mississippi artisans offer simple ways to bring that sense of calm into everyday life.
Megan Patton | Water Valley Instagram: doequilts
Megan Patton has been quilting for nearly two decades, a craft she taught herself after being inspired by her grandmother. Each quilt is shaped with care at every stage of the process, from choosing patterns and color schemes to stitching the final binding. Rooted in tradition and made for use, Patton’s quilts are meant to bring comfort. She hopes people feel safe, cozy and at ease when they wrap up in one, especially during colder months.
Oak Hill Candle Co. | Baldwyn
Facebook: Oak Hill Candle Co.
David and April Bell started Oak Hill Candle Co. in 2014, working out of their kitchen and guided by a simple love for candlelight and a good-smelling home. What began small has grown into a 6,000-square-foot facility, but the heart of the work remains the same. “Our goal is to set the mood for happiness,” April said.
Oak Hill candles are made with clean, earth-sourced ingredients, inspired by natural color and scent. For the Bells, candle making is a way to share joy. Lighting one and curling up under a blanket are among their favorite winter rituals. Best-selling winter scents include Fraser Fir and Cranberry Spice.
SJ Ceramic Co. | Oxford
Instagram: sjceramicco
Shelby Jane Toole discovered pottery during her freshman year as a student at Ole Miss and is now approaching 10 years of working with clay, four of them full time. She is drawn to the way pottery turns something raw into something lasting. “Working with my hands slows me down and grounds me,” Toole said.
Each piece is made in small batches, slightly imperfect and meant to be used, not just admired. Toole embraces the patience and unpredictability of the kiln, letting go of control in the process. Her hope is that her work becomes part of everyday life, holding quiet moments, shared meals and stories long after it leaves her studio.
Lola’s Homestead | Guntown
Facebook: Lola’s Homestead
Drawn to woodworking since childhood, Elizabeth Alcala of Lola’s Homestead is inspired by wood’s natural warmth and the quiet satisfaction of shaping it by hand. What began more than 20 years ago as a hobby has grown into a lifelong passion and a path toward making the craft her full-time focus. “Wood invites connection, and shaping it into functional pieces feels deeply grounding,” Alcala said.
Each item is created slowly and intentionally, guided by the material itself. Alcala hopes her pieces bring comfort and ease into everyday life, meant to be used, enjoyed and passed down for generations.
The Hygge Manifesto
THESE PRINCIPLES OFFER PRACTICAL WAYS TO SLOW DOWN AND MAKE SPACE FOR CONNECTION.
Atmosphere:
Soft lighting, turning down the harsh overheads
Presence:
Be here now; set the phone aside
Pleasure:
Lean into treats—coffee, chocolate, cookies
Equality:
Togetherness over individualism
Gratitude:
Savor the moment
Harmony:
No competition or one-upping
Comfort:
Cozy clothes, warm blankets, restful spaces
Truce:
Hold off on drama and divisive topics
Togetherness:
Create shared stories and connection
Shelter:
Your home and people are a safe haven
Continued on page 62
Shy Gyrl | Oxford
Facebook: The Shy Gyrl
Brandy Jones was drawn to soap making through her daughter, Zoey, whose love of skincare sparked the idea. Wanting products that anyone could use, Jones began creating soaps three years ago with care and intention. The process has become meaningful in unexpected ways. She values the memories made alongside her mother, Crystal, and the quiet pride that comes with finishing each batch.
Jones hopes people feel confident, valued and uplifted when using Shy Gyrl products. She recommends the Turmeric Body Bar year-round, along with the popular Whipped Body Butter, both designed to turn everyday routines into moments of care.
Windmill Farm | Lafayette Co.
Facebook: Windmill Farm MS
Windmill Farm’s approach to tea blending grew out of an early interest in traditional herbal medicine. Creating teas became a way to make those benefits more accessible and easier to enjoy.
“Crafting teas felt like the perfect way to share herbal support with more people,” owner Larry Collins Jr. said.
The most meaningful part of their work comes from seeing how people respond. Moments of relief or calm, when a tea truly helps someone feel better, are what keep Windmill Farms blending. The hope is simple. That each cup offers comfort, well-being and a gentle lift. During winter, Smooth Breath and Front Porch are favorites, offering support for both the body and the mind during colder months.
Hygge at Home
SMALL CHANGES THAT BRING INTENTION, EASE AND SOFTNESS TO EVERYDAY WINTER LIVING.
The Hyggekrog
Every home needs a hyggekrog. This translates to a cozy nook. Wiking defines it as the place where you naturally want to sit and settle in. A window seat with cushions is perfect for watching the rain. Add a lamp, a blanket and a book within reach. None of it needs to match. It just needs to feel right.
The Right Light
Lighting matters more than almost anything else. Danes burn more candles than nearly anyone. Wiking says no recipe for hygge is complete without them. Use lamps with warm bulbs instead of bright overhead lights. Candlelight softens a room and slows everything down.
Tactile Comforts
Hygge is physical. Texture matters. Choose things that feel good to the touch. Chunky knit blankets. Cushions you can sink into. Thick wool socks. A broken-in leather chair. These small comforts make it easier to relax without thinking about it.
Nature and History
Hygge welcomes natural materials and pieces with a past. Worn wood. Plants. Branches from outside. Hand-thrown ceramics. An old quilt. Vintage pieces bring warmth because they feel lived in. They carry a sense of calm that new things sometimes lack.
A Hygge Library
Keep books close by. Physical books invite you to slow down. Turning a page is a quiet, steady act. It fits naturally into a hygge home and makes it easier to choose reading over scrolling.
The second annual Teddy Bear Symphon-Tea took place at Tupelo’s Gumtree Museum of Art, welcoming children ages 2 to 11 for a morning centered on music and imagination. The event featured live performances by North Mississippi Symphony Orchestra musicians and light refreshments for children and adults. Each young guest went home with a special teddy bear. The event also served as a fundraiser benefiting NMSO.
Rosie West and Cella Huelsing
Andrea and Cecilia Jones
Lane and Austin Baxter
Jeff and Kit Steinwinder
Nana, Bane and Selah Dorr
TUPELO CHRISTMAS PARADE
The 77th annual Reed’s Tupelo Christmas Parade took place on Dec. 5. The parade’s theme, “Catch the Spirit,” highlighted the city’s tradition and pride, with the Tupelo Fire Department serving as grand marshals. The celebration wrapped up with a special appearance by Santa Claus, spreading seasonal joy throughout the crowd.
PHOTOS BY LISA ROBERTS
Jackie Armstrong and Lexi Stewart
Van Atkins Jewelers parade float
Lucio Tellez and Thomas Counce
Emma Gentry, Mandolyn Shurden, Tanner
Newman, Jennifer Roberson and Brylee Hall
Jorge Rivas, Kenley Parker and Brooke Fredrick
Oliviana Steele with Lewis and Amber Ewis and Emily Weathers
ALMOST NEW YEAR’S PARTY
he Almost New Year’s Party took place Dec. 30 at Backline Music Hall, bringing the community together for music, food and fun while raising funds for Tupelo Hunger Coalition. Guests enjoyed live entertainment and a festive atmosphere as they supported the nonprofit’s mission to fight food insecurity in the region.
TPHOTOS BY LISA ROBERTS
Andy and Brooke Burleson with Ashley and Case Knight
Nikki Williams and Ronald Oswalt
Justin and Christina Griffin with Jennie
Bradford and John Curlee
Brandy and Luke Stanford
Beth Ann Horton, Amanda Meeks and Christina Gardner
Lindsay Brett Brown with Kim and Brian Rushing
Andrea and Bill Rose
Stewart McMillan and Kristy Luse
Natalie and Norris Richey
Marsha and Mike Tappscot
EIGHT
OF HOPE GALA
n Dec. 5, Eight Days of Hope’s annual gala took place in Tupelo to celebrate and support the nonprofit’s disaster relief and community service work. Eight Days of Hope is a faith-based ministry dedicated to rebuilding homes, feeding communities and serving those in need after natural and human disasters. During the event, the organization announced a $3 million expansion of its national headquarters in Tupelo. The evening featured live entertainment, reflections on the ministry’s most active year ever and recognition of leaders who embody the organization’s mission.
Becky Rasmussen, Call to Freedom founder
Chandler Gurley and Anthony Torrez
Steve Tybor Jr. and Steve Tybor III
Eight Days of Hope gala attendees
Eight Days of Hope gala attendees
TUPELO NEW YEAR'S EVE PARTY
Tupelo’s New Year’s Eve Party was held Dec. 31 at Fairpark, bringing the community together to ring in 2026 with live entertainment and fireworks. The family-friendly celebration featured music by Blind Eye DJ, Even Odds, the 8 South Band, DJ Gucci Girl, Joe Austin and The Tallahatchies and City Mix, along with children’s activities and multiple fireworks shows leading up to midnight.
Bailee, Ivy and Cole Phillips
Maya Baker with Nova and Remi Burroughs Liam and Madi Sanchez with Kellie Colburn
Jim, Carmen and Kingsley Jones
Sham Johnson and Ariel Clark
Leah Jones, Adam DePoorter, Kadi Jones and Paden Allison
Eric and Norma Barnet
The Vinson and Hayes families
Valerie Bradley, Stephanie Coomer and Kylie Boring
Lauren Sloan and Lucy Kate McNeel with Catherine and Anna Thort
he Christmas Flea Market took place Dec. 19-21 at the Tupelo Flea Market. The three-day event gave attendees a chance to browse a variety of vendors offering seasonal gifts, crafts, decor and unique finds, making it a festive stop on many shoppers’ lists
TChell Hale
Susan Hogue and Madilyn Moorman
Tonia Brooks and Sharon Knowles
Maddie Grace, Evelyn, Mayleigh and Marlee
Worrell with Cindy Rowsey
Tobias, Adikus, Morgan and Drew Carr
Jaden, Jensen, Jude, Brittany and Patrick Jeter
CHRISTMAS AT THE ELVIS BIRTHPLACE
hristmas at the Elvis Birthplace took place Dec. 20 in Tupelo. The evening featured festive music performed by Elvis tribute artist David Lee, offering fans and families a chance to celebrate the holiday season in the historic setting where Elvis Presley was born.
David Lee
Kay Jolly with Diane, Lantz and Junior Eads
Danielle LaBombarde, Ruth Bechard and Brenda Mills
Nettie Hood and Sherry Taylor
Carol Ann Coker, Zack Maddox and Barbara Armstrong
Babette Womack and Annette Lollar
SANTA AT THE GRILL
Gavin Chunn, Sallie Rakestraw and Jessica Little
Macy Dean,
Poindexter
Madison
CHRISTMAS IN THE PINES
PHOTOS BY LISA ROBERTS
PHOTOS BY LISA ROBERTS
PHOTOS BY LISA ROBERTS
NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI
PONTOTOC COUNTY DUCKS UNLIMITED BANQUET
FEBRUARY 5
ducksunlimited.myeventscenter.com
JUNIOR AUXILIARY OF TUPELO 63RD ANNUAL CHARITY BALL
FEBRUARY 6 jatupelo.com
CORINTH KIWANIS FATHER DAUGHTER BALL
FEBRUARY 7 fatherdaughterball.org
COFFEE WITH COPS
FEBRUARY 10
facebook.com/PontotocCountyChamberMainStreet
GALENTINE'S
FEBRUARY 12
facebook.com/PontotocCountyChamberMainStreet
VALENTINE’S MOON HIKE
FEBRUARY 13
facebook.com/msstateparks
KING CITY CLASSIC
FEBRUARY 13–14
kingcityclassic.com
TUPELO FLEA MARKET
FEBRUARY 13-15
facebook.com/tupelofleamarket A TASTE OF IRELAND
FEBRUARY 17
dailycorinthian.com
BLACK HISTORY MONTH CELEBRATION
FEBRUARY 21
nmsymphony.com
ALL AMERICAN CIRCUS
FEBRUARY 21
allamericancircus.com
SOUTHEAST FESTIVALS & EVENTS ASSOCIATION ANNUAL CONFERENCE
FEBRUARY 22–25 southeastfestivals.org
WORLD OF CUSTOMS AUTO SHOW
FEBRUARY 27-MARCH 1 worldofcustoms.com
MAIN EVENTS
AN EVENING AT CLUB ROYALE
TUPELO
FEBRUARY 6
FEBRUARY 13-14
Each February, Tupelo takes center stage as talented show choirs from across the region gather for the King City Classic, one of north Mississippi’s premier show choir competitions. Held at Cadence Bank Arena, the event showcases high-energy performances combining vocals, choreography and live musicianship. Beyond the competition, the King City Classic supports local arts education, student musicians and the performing arts. Audiences can expect a full day of showstopping talent, school spirit and unforgettable performances.
kingcityclassic.com
This black-tie affair brings together community leaders and supporters for a glamorous evening of dinner, dancing and celebration — all in support of the Junior Auxiliary of Tupelo’s mission to improve the lives of children in the area. Proceeds from the ball directly benefit local programs focused on education, health and family well-being, making this signature event both a social highlight and a meaningful way to give back.
tupelo.net
KIWANIS FATHER DAUGHTER BALL
CORINTH
FEBRUARY 7
A treasured Corinth tradition, the Kiwanis Club Father Daughter Ball offers an unforgettable evening of dancing, laughter and lasting memories. Fathers and daughters dress in their finest for a night designed to celebrate connection and community. Proceeds from the event support the Corinth Kiwanis Club’s ongoing efforts to serve local children through educational initiatives, youth programs and community outreach, making this heartfelt evening as purposeful as it is memorable.
