Huntsville, AL April 2026

Neighbors Who Care

At Dental Professionals on Whitesburg, care is more than a service. It is a commitment to our neighbors, our community, and every patient who walks through our doors. We live here, we serve here, and we value real relationships built on trust, comfort, and consistency. Our team brings warmth, experience, and attention to detail to every visit, creating a space where patients feel calm, welcomed, and at home. Your smile has a home here.

Invest in You

Perhaps Taylor Swift said it wisest, "You should think of  your energy as if it's expensive, as if it's a  luxury item not everyone can afford." How often do we give ourselves to situations and people that have no intention of valuing our energy and then are left not feeling alive and revived, but rather, deflated? The most important investment you will ever make isn't in stocks or real estate, it is in yourself - how you use your time, how you use your mind, how you take care of yourself, how you treat others. Every skill you learn, every book you read, every hour you spend growing your mind, body, and soul compounds into opportunities, confidence, and legacy.

Relationships matter. Surround yourself with mentors, inspiring peers, and supportive communities. They expand your perspective, motivate you, and push you toward your best self. We learn this in our feature We The PeopleTec, a Huntsville based company whose vision has always been about helping other people be their best.

Investing in yourself means taking yourself seriously - your education and your skills. Learn something new, master a craft, or expand your knowledge - these are tools that open doors you didn’t even know existed. In The Gold Standard we expand our mind learning more about the world's most time-tested currency.

But it’s not just about your mind. Your body and mental health are equally important - exercise, eat well, rest. A strong, focused, and resilient you will tackle challenges others shy away from or never even attempt. In this issue two health professionals, Therapist Stephanie Cashin and Dr. Hank Lemley share their best advice on maintaining a healthy lifestyle so you can put your best self forward.

And never underestimate the power of passion—hobbies, creative outlets, and personal reflection keep you balanced, energized, and innovative. This issue takes you inside my home and all the thought and passion that went into bringing each room to life. We also travel to Palm Beach in Palm Beach Bound for inspiration from one of the most iconic destinations in the world for a lesson in refined beauty. As H Luxury Travel owner Julie Ann Hargett writes in Invest in Travel , "In a world that moves quickly and measures success in acquisitions, travel offers something quieter and far more meaningful. It shapes perspective, strengthens bonds, and becomes part of a family’s shared story."

Confidence, independence, adaptability, and the ability to create your own path are priceless returns. When you prioritize personal growth, health, and self-awareness, you build a foundation strong enough to achieve any goal.

Long. Live. Print.

BAILEY, PUBLISHER

April 2026

PUBLISHER

Amy Bailey | amy.bailey@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Casey Creque | casey.creque@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Susan Rogers | susan.rogers@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Mary Nell Cole

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Tresa Peppers

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Stephanie Cashin, Cooper Smitherman, Julie Ann Hargett

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Joe Davis, Tamika Watford

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe

LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

city scene

Investing in the right agent is always the right strategy

Start with Strategy.

Before your home ever hits the market, Kelsey develops a pricing, positioning, and timing strategy designed to maximize exposure and return — not just list, but launch.

Tap Into Hyper-Local Insight.

From Blossomwood to Madison City, she understands what drives demand, where buyers are willing to stretch, and how to position your home to stand out against the competition.

Market to Win.

In today’s North Alabama market, presentation and reach matter. Kelsey crafts compelling marketing — from photography to targeted promotion — to attract qualified buyers and generate strong offers.

Negotiate with Confidence.

Multiple offers? Inspection negotiations? Appraisal hurdles? Kelsey protects your equity and advocates for terms that keep your goals front and center.

Leverage Her Network.

From trusted stagers and contractors to closing professionals, her vetted connections ensure your home shows beautifully, moves smoothly, and closes on schedule.

First Horizon Bank is bringing together Huntsville’s most influential leaders on our new Advisory Board. This powerful alliance combines our strength with deep local insight to drive strategic growth and community impact. Together, we’re building the future of North Alabama.

ARTICLE BY AMY BAILEY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TAMIKA WATFORD

WE THE PEOPLETEC

“I truly love my job. I love our team. We work hard, celebrate each other’s wins, and learn from each other’s stumbles,” says Executive Vice President/Chief Financial Officer Anna Catherine Osteen of her career at PeopleTec. With a culture of excellence and processes founded on improvement, employee-owned PeopleTec strives to be better every day. From the beginning, PeopleTec’s co-founders, Terry Jennings and Doug Scalf wanted the company to be a place people wanted to go to work everyday. Osteen adds, “For me, their dream is the reality I enjoy everyday.”

Osteen’s sentiments are universal. As you talk to both employees and senior leadership, this people-driven culture reigns true from the day to day operations to long term legacy created by the ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) for their future and their family’s future.

“There is a genuineness to our company and its people-first culture that transcends the workplace. It carries over to an improved home life,” states Jorge Garcia. “My evening conversations about how my day went are filled with examples of caring, not frustration, which make a huge difference for my family and me.”  Add this

culture to the opportunity to be an employee-owner, where everyone’s efforts contribute each day to the growth of our company, and you have another dimension of measurable goodness to the experience of working at PeopleTec. Garcia continues, “Combined with our culture, being an employee-owned company positively impacts the lives of all employees and their families in both tangible and intangible ways.”

Working at an employee-owned company benefits PeopleTec’s employees and their families in tremendous ways.  Beyond an already generous 401K matching contribution, the opportunity to contribute to and benefit from the growth of PeopleTec through the ESOP adds a significant boost to their family’s financial future, providing security in both the short-term and long term.

Co-founder Terry Jennings says of choosing ESOP over IPO, “PeopleTec’s ESOP establishment in 2016 was driven by an unwavering commitment to protect what matters most – our people, values, and culture. If we believe our people are our greatest strength, then it makes sense that they should own the success they create.” She continues, “It was a deliberate decision to shield our destiny

“MY EVENING CONVERSATIONS ABOUT HOW MY DAY WENT ARE FILLED WITH EXAMPLES OF CARING, NOT FRUSTRATION, WHICH MAKE A HUGE DIFFERENCE FOR MY FAMILY AND ME.”

from short-term market pressures. We did not want our future shaped by outside shareholders who did not understand our workforce, our customers, or the missions we support.”

Osteen adds, “An ESOP builds interest in what’s happening across the company.  I’ve always loved being part of a team and this business structure allows that team feel to have an extra sweetness.  We own this amazing company!  It makes every win mean more, every success of your fellow employee-owner mean a little more.”  It has always been a part of the culture at PeopleTec to celebrate each other, but the ESOP just magnifies that. “I think contentment in life is so important and a large piece of that for me is loving what I do,

enjoying with whom I spend my time, and feeling purposeful in my everyday. The ESOP and what it means for our employee owners is now part of my purpose,” remarks Osteen.

As far as the legacy this creates for her family, “I’m a numbers person; I always have been. The ESOP means something to my family’s financial future, but the best part for me is that the work I put in benefits the financial future of all our employee owners.” Osteen continues, “My wins are wins for them. Their wins are wins for me. Together, we are all building a company and a legacy together of which our families can be proud.”

Jennings knows, “ESOP fosters an environment for people to think beyond immediate results and focus on building a sustainable future. It creates a workplace where employees support one another, invest in their careers, and take pride in their work. Ownership encourages a deeper sense of accountability, pride, and connection because our people are helping shape the future of a company they collectively own.”

Positive, engaged, and thoughtful leaders and co-founders like whose examples demonstrate genuine humility, integrity, empathy, and respectfulness to all is the foundation that is needed for all other good things to happen, including the continued growth of the company.  Garcia says, “I am most motivated and inspired by the example our senior leaders set each day. They make it possible for others to set similar examples at all levels within the company,

which in turn, attracts other great and talented professionals to join our team and be a part of something this good.” He adds, “It’s why it is a joy to come to PeopleTec each day.”

Garcia has had the opportunity to work in many other organizations throughout his professional life. He compares, “While experiencing what I refer to as “pockets of excellence” within other organizations, I had not previously experienced an organization that I would consider excellent – an organization that works each day at making good better – from top to bottom. PeopleTec is that kind of organization.”

The challenge he has encountered is how to more effectively communicate to younger professionals, who may not have other experiences, how truly wonderful, and quite unique, PeopleTec is as a place to come to work each day.  “It is an excellent company, not because it is perfect – nothing is – but because the company’s leadership is very intentional about making all things, including things that are going well, even better.” Garcia continues, “And,

it’s done through thoughtful consideration of all perspectives before important decisions are made. Our leaders are genuine, caring people who lead with a level of humility and empathy that is not that common. Helping our younger professionals understand the true uniqueness of what we have here at PeopleTec is something that I work on so they are able to more fully understand and appreciate the goodness that surrounds them.”

Osteen’s biggest challenge was the implementation of the ESOP. “The ESOP was one of the most challenging and exciting things in my career. I had heard of ESOPs, but really knew very little about them.” Osteen continues, “We worked with a team of experts to design and implement the ESOP. I spent much time learning about the employee ownership world from those experts and from fellow ESOP companies. It’s one of the great things about ESOP companies, we are all for ESOPs and everyone is quick to share the things they have learned along the way.”

DRIVE A LITTLE SAVE A LOT

Family owned and operated, we’ve built our reputation on something simple; Doing right by our customers. Just a short drive from Huntsville and Madison, you’ll find a full lineup of Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram vehicles, paired with transparent pricing, personalized service, and a buying experience that feels refreshingly straightforward. From refined luxury to rugged capability, our team is here to help you find the right car for you.

BY JOE DAVIS

ARTICLE BY CASEY CREQUE

PLUSH FURNITURE, JEWEL TONED COLORS, AND SPARKLING GOLD ACCENTS

BREATHE LIFE AND LIVABILITY INTO THIS TWICKENHAM HOME

A WELL-LOVED HOME

Step inside the colorful home of publisher Amy Bailey. Bailey loves rooms to be inviting, to feel livable and alive, and to have personality. She wants her home to exude a life well lived in a perfectly imperfect way. “Your home should not be perfect, it should be you, imperfect by design. Perfection is unwelcoming. You want your home to have its own patina - its own character, beauty, and story. It’s like musician Leonard Cohen says, There’s a crack in everything, that’s how the light gets in. She adds, “When you walk

into a room and it looks like no one has ever sat on the sofa, you won’t be comfortable to sit on it either. I want people to sit, linger and stay awhile, as us Southerners say.” In addition to running her own business, writing, and being a mom to a senior in high school, Bailey finds solace in her home and garden.

Decorated with handsome antiques and contemporary furniture, the formal living room has a lushness and elegance, but is also comfortable and cozy with its beveled edge ceiling that creates a cave-like feel. Collections of favorite things old and new are playfully displayed - stacks of books and Cabana magazines on the coffee table, antique lamps purchased from a market in France, artwork over the fireplace by Alabama artist Vicki Denanburg, another large abstract by artist Catie Radney seems to capture all the colors in the room, and her daughter’s pottery can be found throughout.

Plush furniture, jewel toned colors, and sparkling gold accents meet the eyes as soon as you enter the room. Green leather chairs from Birmingham Wholesale Furniture adorned with velvet Scalamandre pillows, a sumptuous oversized salmon colored sofa in velvet, separate seating areas with a lizard-embossed leather console and bench and two club chairs with an ottoman upholstered in

CONTINUED >

“YOU WANT YOUR HOME TO HAVE ITS OWN PATINA - ITS OWN CHARACTER, ITS OWN BEAUTY, ITS OWN STORY.”

Scalamandre’s La Perouse, and a hand-carved, folding hexagonal table found at an antique mall for a whopping $40 bring the room to life. Alabama designer Beth McMillan created a vision of multiple seating areas for the long, rectangular shaped room, scouting the sofa, console and bench, and chairs. Two antique pedestals topped with porcelain planters from Rivenbark Antiques flank the limestone fireplace adding height. McMillan found the large pendant lights from Circa and chose the paint colors, a deep blue for the walls and light blue for the ceiling that bring in colors from the adjacent dining room wallpaper.

Bailey remarks, “People often say to me, You must love color. And the answer is yes I do. I think bold colors and vibrant patterns ignite the imagination and soul, and I want to be surrounded by them in the place I spend the most time.”

Walking into the dining room there is a feeling of opulence and at the same time calmness. It was in the dining room when Bailey first felt connected to the home, “I remember walking into the dining room for the first time, and even though it wasn’t decorated like I would want

it, I had a feeling that this is home.” She adds, “I had a vision from that first moment of what I wanted it to look like - I saw the Cole&Sons Florencecourt wallpaper, the light blues, the chair railing. And so it was the first room we redecorated. It was amazing to see the progression, every day seeing this vision I had in my mind come to fruition.” The sideboard came with the home while the Baileys brought in their previous dining table and purchased 10 soft blue velvet upholstered chairs. Locust Lane Rugs created a large custom area rug in colors

from the wallpaper. The large antique mirror hanging over the sideboard Bailey found years ago at Henhouse Antiques in Mountain Brook.

“It’s magical to me how pieces old and new come together. How you can have something for decades and then move into a new home and all of a sudden a secondary piece you’ve had for years seems to take center stage bringing the whole room together. It’s like giving something old a whole new life.”

After living in the house several months, one day Bailey was looking out the dining room when she found herself staring at the shrubbery outside - yew shrubbery is planted all around the house. “As I stared at the pattern of the yew I thought, That looks familiar. I turned my head and looked at the Cole&Sons Florencecourt wallpaper and immediately googled the pattern asking what type botanical was in the paper. Of course…yew.” A  kismet moment in decorating.

With a love for hosting, her dining room has been the stage for meals, holidays, and parties.

“I love entertaining. I love being at home, I love good food, I love cooking, I love setting the table - I love it all, so having a home that

feels good, that invites people in, that has the space and movement to host small or large groups of people is important to me.”

“People are overwhelmed by entertaining, but it’s like anything: The more you do it the easier it gets. You don’t have to spend 10 hours in the kitchen and go ‘Julia Child’ on everyone,” she remarks. “You can whip up a one pot meal of bolognese or chili or even order take out, plate it on some fun serving ware, and open a bottle or wine or serve a batch cocktail and voila! I think people enjoy the

intimacy of someone’s home.” Entertaining has historically been a very lively part of Southern culture and Bailey wants to embrace this tradition, “I believe in making things special and the creativity that is ignited in the planning. The memories are an immense payoff, and the labor load diminishes the more you do it.”

The color story continues to unfold in the Provencal style kitchen with a large island, solid wood beams, Schumacher’s Citrus Garden wallpaper, and green cabinetry. First renovated in 1990 by a previous homeowner, its French Country style, immense storage, and openness drew Bailey to the home. “In 2018 I made my first trip to Provence and then in 2019 returned I loved it so much. When I heard the story of this home and how the previous homeowner’s renovation was French inspired, I felt an instant affinity to the house.”

Bailey had the wood cabinetry in the kitchen painted Sherwin Williams green and the walls an oyster white, then added matching white painted trim with Schumacher’s Citrus Garden covering the walls below. “I didn’t want the wallpaper to interfere with the beams and it dawned on me, Why not add trim railing.”

She adds, “Our wallpaper guy, Keith Womack, who has installed wallpaper for me at two houses, practically lived with us for several months. We added wallpaper in four rooms and a hallway.”

“When people step into the kitchen they say, Your house makes me so happy! ” Bailey smiles, “That is the goal! I really wanted each room to have its own personality, to be filled with color and things that are just fun to look at.”

She adds, “I don’t want everything white or everything beige. So many people are scared or hesitant of color.

They just aren’t sure if something is too much or if it will work, then they divert to 50 shades of beige. My advice is go for it. Ask a professional for advice and if you love color - try it, you just might create the most beautiful, fun room you could ever imagine. You want your home to feel alive, not dead.”

Deep blue walls and a wide range of textures and materials - green velvet, black marble, woven area rug, stone tiled floors, contemporary black and gold coffee table, linen upholstered chairs, and a limestone carved fireplace that steals the show - give the family room its personality and depth. Bailey remarks, “This is by far the most used room of the house. It’s where everyone gathers including the pups.” Their two Pomeranians, Tuck and Coconut, rule the roost making beds on top of chairs or cozying up and hiding in the pillows on the couch. “Our home is their home. I’ve never been one to not allow our dogs on furniture. They are only on this earth a short time, I want them to feel like they are a well loved part of the family.”

All around the house are pieces of art, pottery, and collectables from different decades and parts of the world, and in all different styles - paintings by local artists next to antique oils, pottery collected from trips to North Carolina, a Rose Medallion Chinoiserie vase, blue and white porcelain jars, a large candle holder adorned with flowers made by her daughter.

A leopard-print runner up the spiral staircase from the family room blends seamlessly with Scalamandre’s zebras flanking the stairwell, creating another focal point of the home. The runner was actually there before the Baileys moved in as were the arrow light fixtures, similar to the arrows in the zebra wallpaper. A silk upholstered pink chair adds contrast to the black wallpaper with an Audubon pink flamingo print hanging above.

Walking into the Master Bedroom is in one word - serene. The pale blue walls were inspired by a bedroom photo in Suzanne Kasler’s Rizzoli book Edited Style. “Waking up in this room is euphoric.” With the paint covering the walls, shadow boxes, and ceiling one feels immersed in the hue. Two large arms upholstered in Lee Jofa’s

Chinese Peony flank the media armoire. From the fabric lampshades by Alabama made House of Hallmark to the gold mirror above the dresser, each piece seems carefully curated. The Master Bath continues a subdued yet opulent feel with imported 18th century antique French mirrors.

Stepping into Bailey’s home office cocooned in pink coral walls feels like stepping inside a jewel box. The setting for the birth of her first magazine and many writing projects, the thoughtful artwork, gold accents, and unique treasures housed in the large bookcase, invite you to linger and tap into your creative side. French doors open to the hidden courtyard, New Orleans style pool, and gardens.

Bailey has a deep love for nature. Her mother is a gardener and her father had a vegetable garden every year until he got older. “I get more pleasure from my garden than almost anything,” she admits. She had dabbled in gardening for years, from growing herbs at her first home to growing a raised vegetable garden as well as cultivating a rose garden in her previous home. She had a neighbor at her former house who loved gardening too. Bailey learned a lot from her neighbor and they enjoyed exchanging plants and watching each other’s garden grow. Her neighbor’s best advice, “If you’ve got a problem, go dig in the dirt. There’s no better therapy.”

Bailey enjoys the beauty of her gardens, but she’s also passionate about the work that goes into them. “I love digging in the dirt. There is nothing better than to go outside on a beautiful day with your scissors or your clippers, cutting herbs for dinner or flowers for an arrangement.” She continues, “It’s good for your health and your soul. I’m not sure there is anything more confirming of God than working in the garden. Just looking at a flower bloom in all its color and symmetry makes you beam, How does nature do this?”

Bailey’s colorful Southern home is more than a palette of bold hues - it’s a reflection of the warmth, creativity, and hospitality that define life in the South. Each vibrant room tells a story, blending tradition with personality, with the garden bringing its own story to life.

DESIGN | BUILD

ARTICLE BY AMY BAILEY

THEGold STANDARD

Gold prices are soaring, what does that mean for investments?

Jewelry heists often conjure up visions of Grace Kelly jaunting around the French Riviera and prowling on rooftops to secretly steal from high society, but this past fall’s Louvre Museum robbery was anything but covert and had a particular motivation: the soaring value of gold.

The Louvre break-in is part of a wider pattern of criminals targeting museums not for their art, but for their jewels, gold, and precious metals that are easier to melt down or sell on the black market. These thefts have been on the rise as commodity prices surge. In the past year alone, gold prices have increased 75% attracting the attention of both legitimate investors and motivated thieves.

Today the price of gold is trading at over $5,000 per ounce, hitting highs of $5,586, a notable increase from historical averages over the past decade. And these all time highs do not seem to be cooling demand, only fueling it.

This price surge stems from several economic factors working together. Inflation worries, geopolitical tensions, and central bank buying have all pushed investors toward safe, more tangible assets, including gold.

Why invest in gold jewelry? We asked Alex Pols of Morgan Stanley what investors should consider when buying jewelry. “Gold was the first global currency, so when it comes to longevity, there’s perhaps nothing that has stood the test of time like gold.” Pols continues, “From generation to generation, you have something that can be passed down and continues to go up in value over time. For instance

that $4,000 gold bracelet from David Yurman will have value long after you and Yurman are gone, plus it looks great on you.”

Secondly, why invest in Gold? Pols remarks, “Historically gold is one of the best combatants against inflation. Prices often rise during periods of geopolitical uncertainty, economic crises, or market volatility. Gold often moves independently of traditional assets like stocks and bonds, reducing overall portfolio risk. With a history of value retention for thousands of years, it is considered a reliable, tangible store of value.”

HOW TO INVEST IN GOLD

Physical Gold

Purchasing gold bullion is a popular and tangible way to own gold. You can buy gold bars and coins. However, buying and storing physical gold involves additional costs such as insurance, storage fees and security considerations.

Gold Stocks

Investing in gold mining companies provides exposure to the gold industry without owning the physical metal. It’s important to note that factors beyond the price of gold - such as operational performance, exploration success and management decisionscan influence the share prices of gold mining companies. Investors should conduct thorough research on the companies and assess their financial health and potential for growth before investing.

“That $4,000 gold bracelet from David Yurman will have value long after you and Yurman are gone, plus it looks great on you.”

Gold ETFs

Gold ETFs offer a convenient and cost-effective way to invest in gold. These ETFs hold physical gold or derivatives linked to the gold price. Some also invest in a portfolio of gold mining company stocks.

Investors can buy and sell shares of gold ETFs on stock exchanges, providing liquidity and flexibility. They also offer the ability to gain exposure to the price of gold without physical ownership and the associated storage and security concerns. There are transaction costs that can be as much as 10%.

Gold Futures

Investors can participate in the gold market through futures contracts. Gold futures involve buying or selling gold at a predetermined price and date in the future. This method allows for leveraged exposure to gold, amplifying potential returns and carrying additional risks.

Understanding the futures market and being prepared for the volatility and complexities associated with trading futures contracts is essential, as these are complex financial instruments not meant for beginner investors.

Gold IRAs

Similar to traditional IRAs, investments are tax-advantaged, but physical gold is often taxed as a “collectible” (up to 28%) upon withdrawal.

“With concerns over political policies, foreign investors being less comfortable with US assets, and inflation we may continue to see this upward trend in Gold,” Pols says. “The weakened dollar also drives up cost of gold.”

Time tested for those seeking stability and tangible security, gold offers a unique combination of protection and opportunity.

“Gold was the first global currency, so when it comes to longevity, there’s perhaps nothing that has stood the test of time like gold.”

The

It’s easy to lose track of your fin ances when your days are filled with other responsibilities. As Morgan S tanley Financial Advisors, we can work w ith you to understand your goals and help you create an investment strategy that’s right for you. We strive to help you stay on track for your future so you can focus on all that’s

Friday, May 1, 2026 | Stovehouse | 6:00 to 10:00 p.m.

on Authentic Mexican Cuisine • Indulge in Artisan Cocktails, Craft Beer, and Boutique Wines Enter the Mysteré Box Drawing • Bid on Exceptional Auction Items

RYKER’S RAINBOW PRESENTED BY Our MIsSion is to provide emotional and tangible support for families who experience the loss of a pregnancy, infant, or child.

PALM BEACH Bound

THERE IS NO PLACE MORE RITZY, MORE POSH, AND MORE OPULENT THAN PALM BEACH

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMY BAILEY

A meticulously tailored, tropical fairytale nestled on a 16-mile barrier island in southern Florida, there is no place more ritzy, no place more posh, and no place more opulent than Palm Beach. This bubble of luxury is one of the most concentrated areas of wealth on the planet. However Palm Beach isn’t just residency for those whose happily-ever-after is more diamonds and caviar, but also a bucket list travel destination for those who love all things design and history.

On this barrier island where turquoise tides lap manicured lawns and yachts bob like polished pearls, one resort reigns supreme - The Breakers. More than just a luxury hotel, The Breakers is a living, breathing testament to the excesses of the Gilded Age and the refinement of modern hospitality, where every detail feels curated and every wave sounds like an invitation.

In the late 1800’s word of the area’s beautiful beaches and massive coconut groves spread northward and by 1880 the first hotel, the Coconut Grove House, opened to tourists. In 1896 Henry M. Flagler opened the Florida East Coast Railroad. The railroad tracks crossed Lake Worth so trains could deliver their passengers directly to the Flagler System hotels, which included the Palm Beach Inn directly on the ocean. The inn was renamed The Breakers, because so many guests wrote asking for a room “down by the breakers.” What began as a grand winter retreat quickly became the place to see and be seen, long before influencers and hashtags dictated travel trends.

If history loves drama, The Breakers has written an epic trilogy. The original resort burned down - twice. Each time, it rose more lavish than before, culminating in the 1926 Mediterranean-Renaissance masterpiece that still stands today. Architects Schultze & Weaver modeled the hotel after Rome’s Villa Medici, importing Italian artisans whose frescoes and vaulted ceilings rival European palaces.

This wasn’t mere construction. It was theatrical spectacle in stone, plaster, and paint, inviting Europe’s grandest ballrooms to relocate to Florida’s beachfront. The result?

A lobby stretching 200 feet, towering palms whispering in the bougainvillea-framed breeze, and a sense that you’ve entered a grand salon that is timeless and alive.

Still family-owned since 1896, The Breakers is one of fewer than 1,000 American businesses older than a century still led by the original family line.

That consistency shows in the details: the lush gardens that seem hand-trimmed by time, the staff’s seamless choreography of service, and the way every corner feels both impossibly grand and warmly familiar. There’s a generous spirit here: stewards who remember names, traditions that feel sacred, and a brand of hospitality that other hotels should study.

The story begins as soon as you turn down 1 South County Road, lined with palms that tower into the sky, The Breakers let’s you know upon entrance that it is special. Pulling into the resort’s portico is a bustling affair in itself. Valets happily attend to each guest as they pull up and enter this castle by the sea.

The lobby of The Breakers Palm Beach is one of the most breathtaking entrances in American hospitality—a grand space that captures the glamour and romance of Palm Beach’s Gilded Age. Stretching an impressive 200 feet in length, the lobby was completed when the resort reopened in 1926 and was inspired by the elegance of Italian Renaissance palaces. Towering Roman arches, marble columns, and a dramatic barrel-vaulted ceiling painted with intricate classical frescoes immediately draw the eye upward, where the work of dozens of Italian artisans still dazzles nearly a century later.

Stepping inside feels less like entering a hotel and more like arriving in a seaside palace. Sunlight pours through tall arched windows, illuminating plush seating areas arranged beneath ornate chandeliers and framed by polished wood, marble, and bronze details.

At the center of the room, an ever-changing floral display— created weekly by the resort’s design studio—adds a fresh burst of color and fragrance, becoming an iconic photo backdrop for visitors from around the world. Guests pause here to take in the

sweeping architecture, sip coffee, or simply watch the gentle procession of Palm Beach life unfold. More than just a passageway, the Breakers lobby serves as the heart of the resort.

Soon you will find these opulent displays of beauty and comfort exist in each corridor you turn down. From the Palm Court where you can retreat and sip your morning coffee while watching the resort come to life to The Circle where breakfast is served. Each day guests enjoy a lavish breakfast in the circular ballroom, but Sunday Brunch steals the show. Featuring an extensive buffet of fresh seafood - caviar, lobster, sushi, hand-carved meats, artisanal cheeses, and decadent pastries, complemented by made-to-order omelets and signature breakfast creations, guests can sip on champagne or craft cocktails while enjoying live harp music and the stunning ocean views visible through floor-to-ceiling windows. Sunday Brunch at The Breakers has become a celebrated weekly ritual for both locals and visitors seeking a quintessential Palm Beach experience.

With poolside lounging, beachside cabanas, a highly rated spa, a 6,000 foot fitness center, walking trails, shopping, and plenty of cafes and restaurants, The Breakers makes it hard to leave the hotel during your stay, and we suspect many guests don’t. They retreat into this fortress of lush comfort and breathe in the beauty.

However, when visiting this tiny kingdom by the sea, you must dine. Palm Beach’s culinary scene has been gaining international attention, with several restaurants recognized by the Michelin Guide for quality and value - Konro in West Palm Beach is the premier, newly recognized one-MICHELIN-star restaurant in the area. The region also boasts several highly regarded recommended spots and Bib Gourmand winners, including aioli, Palm Beach Meats, buccan , Coolinary, and Stage Kitchen and Bar - underscoring the region’s evolving food landscape.  CONTINUED >

Courtesy of The Breakers

Buccan is a standout in downtown Palm Beach from acclaimed Chef Clay Conley. Known for its creative smallplates and progressive American cuisine, this stylish bistro offers an adventurous menu ideal for sharing and sampling diverse flavors in a lively but refined setting.

For classic French flair and a touch of glamour, La Goulue Palm Beach is a perennial favorite among locals and visitors alike. Its elegant ambiance and sophisticated French dishes make it perfect for special occasions or a romantic evening.

If you’re exploring Palm Beach’s historic hotels, Swifty’s at The Colony Hotel is an iconic choice. With a charming poolside patio, it’s great for brunch, lunch or a cocktail.

For relaxed yet refined dining, Henry’s Palm Beach at The Breakers offers elevated comfort food, everything from Dover sole to gourmet burgers.

The Polo Room blends Argentinian-inspired plates with an upscale cocktail experience for diners seeking something different.

Estiatorio Milos in West Palm Beach delivers Aegean sophistication with pristine fish flown in daily from Mediterranean waters—and attracts the kind of A-list clientele who value exceptional food and discretion in equal measure.

Le Bilboquet in Palm Beach is a chic French bistro and stylish dining destination tucked into a verdant courtyard just off Worth Avenue. The ambiance—accented by exotic palms and an oak and beechwood bar with a French pewter countertop—makes it a popular spot for leisurely lunches, elegant dinners, and celebratory gatherings.

Worth Avenue remains the beating heart of Palm Beach’s social scene, where approximately 250 high-end boutiques, jewelers, and art galleries line four blocks from Lake Worth to the Atlantic. Beyond the expected luxury names -  Chanel, Hermès, Louis Vuitton—the real treasures hide in the pedestrian passageways designed by Addison Mizner, intimate Mediterranean-style courtyards where locals shop. BURU Boutique has recently opened on Worth, bringing the brand’s relaxed-luxury, small-batch women’s fashion to the island’s storied shopping scene. The Los Angeles–based label started by University of Alabama graduate Morgan Hutchinson, known for its stylish yet effortless pieces and responsible production, celebrated its spring launch at the new store in 2026.

Another Palm Beach shopping destination, Royal Poinciana Plaza, home to Zimmermann, Kirna Zabete, La Coqueta, La Ligne, LoveShackFancy, Stoney Clover Lane, Zadig & Voltaire, and more.

Beyond dining and shopping, Palm Beach’s cultural scene adds depth to the fantasy. The Norton Museum of Art showcases American, European, and contemporary collections. For a serene escape, Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens in Delray Beach offers 16 acres of tranquil landscapes - a serene contrast to the area’s social intensity. The gardens at the Four Arts Library date back to the 1930s, and include Chinese- and Spanish-themed planted areas. You can also CONTINUED >

enjoy screenings of classic films in the gardens. You can explore the historic Flagler Museum, Henry Flagler’s opulent Gilded Age winter home turned cultural destination. Architectural history is on display at the Paramount Theatre Building, a Moorish- and Spanish-inspired landmark from the 1920s. For interactive learning and family experiences, the Cox Science Center and Aquarium offers hands-on exhibits alongside marine life explorations, while nearby Palm Beach Zoo features wildlife habitats and conservation programs. Outdoor culture thrives too, rent bicycles to explore the Lake Trail, a scenic path along the Intracoastal where mansions and mega-yachts provide constant eye candy. Markets in West Palm Beach are also worth the outdoor excursion. While annual events and design showcases celebrate local creativity and community life.

Each year the  Kips Bay Decorator Show House draws design lovers from near and far with its interior creativity. The Kips Bay Decorator Show House brings together top designers to transform one or more beautiful homes into immersive showcases of creativity, style, and innovation. In 2026, for the first time, the ninth annual Show House spans two properties - a stunning mid-century waterfront Intracoastal residence at 3410 North Flagler Drive and the charming Palm Cottage across the streeteach reimagined by a roster of leading design talents who reinterpret Palm Beach’s signature mix of bold color, botanical motifs, and tropical elegance. The event offers ticketed tours that inspire design lovers and benefits the Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club. This year the event even features Alabama designer Danielle Balanis with her Mame Dennis inspired bedroom and bathroom.

Departing from the Sailfish Marina or along the Palm Beach Inlet, anglers can quickly reach the Gulf Stream, a prime fishing corridor known for sailfish, mahi-mahi, wahoo, and even blue marlin. Experienced local captains provide top-tier equipment and insider knowledge, whether you’re trolling offshore for trophy catches or bottom fishing for snapper and grouper. With turquoise water, warm sea breezes, and the iconic Palm Beach skyline in the distance, a day on a charter boat is as much about the luxurious coastal setting as it is about the thrill of the catch.

In most fairytales, time is a fragile thing, threatened by midnight bells. In Palm Beach, however, time softens rather than expires. Afternoon sunlight filters through palm fronds in dappled patterns that feel almost deliberate, as though nature itself is mindful of aesthetics. Even the breeze seems to understand pacing, arriving precisely when needed to lift a linen curtain or cool sun-kissed skin.

As twilight settles, the Atlantic becomes a sheet of hammered silver. Lights flicker in hidden courtyards. Music drifts faintly from distant verandas. Palm Beach at night feels suspended between reality and reverie.

Perhaps that is the truest magic of Palm Beach: a reminder that beauty can be a way of life. That sometimes the fairytale is not about escaping the world, but about refining it.

In this kingdom of coral sands and gilded light, happily-ever-after is a daily ritual - sunrise over the Atlantic, lunch beneath striped umbrellas, twilight beneath chandeliers.

For reservations thebreakers.com

The new, freestanding Coachcella tub redefines bathing as an ethereal experience. Inspired by California’s prolific mid-century modern design found in the desert, its fluid form unfolds like butterfly wings on both sides for optimal comfort. Integrated lumbar support cradles the body, while a seamless integral pedestal elevates the bath to new heights.

WHY TRAVEL MATTERS AND HOW IT BRINGS NEW PERSPECTIVE, CONNECTION AND MEMORIES

INVEST IN A LIFE WELL TRAVELED

In the South, we understand the value of gathering — around a table, on a porch, at the end of a long day. We understand that time together is never wasted. Travel, at its heart, is simply an extension of that philosophy.

In a world that moves quickly and measures success in acquisitions, travel offers something quieter and far more meaningful. It shapes perspective, strengthens bonds, and becomes part of a family’s shared story.

I have never believed travel is about checking destinations off a list. It is about stepping away from routine and having experiences that bring you new perspectives. It is an investment in memories, in connection, and in the kind of experiences that stay with you long after you return home.

ARTICLE BY JULIE ANN HARGETT

WHY TRAVEL MATTERS

When families choose to prioritize travel, they are choosing time — intentional, uninterrupted time.

In our own home, we give experiences for Christmas. Not because we do not appreciate beautiful things, but because moments linger differently. Years from now, it will not be the packages that are remembered most clearly. It will be the evening light over the Mediterranean, the laughter shared in a small Italian café, or the sense of wonder when standing where history once unfolded.

Experiences have a way of settling into us. They shape conversations. They deepen relationships. They give children context for the wider world and remind adults how expansive, yet small, it truly is.

I often see families return not simply rested, but reconnected. Without the constant pull of schedules and screens, conversations lengthen. Laughter comes more easily. Couples rediscover the rhythm of one another’s company. Even solo travelers come home steadier, more confident, and quietly proud of having navigated something new.

Travel asks us to slow down. To notice. To engage. And in doing so, it refines us.

WHAT CLIENTS SHARE WHEN THEY RETURN

The most meaningful feedback I receive rarely revolves around luxury details. While beautiful accommodations and thoughtful service certainly elevate a journey, what lingers are the moments.

Parents speak of uninterrupted dinners where no one reached for a phone. They share stories of children standing in awe before ancient ruins or tasting something entirely new. Couples mention long walks, unhurried mornings, and conversations that simply do not happen amid daily responsibilities.

Often, there is a subtle shift — a deeper appreciation for home, a renewed patience, a broadened understanding of how others live. Travel gently reminds us of our resilience and our capacity for curiosity. Those are the returns that matter most.

MAKING TRAVEL A PRIORITY — GRACEFULLY

There is a common belief that meaningful travel must be extravagant. In truth, it is far more about intention than excess.

With thoughtful planning, travel can hold a respected place in a family’s financial life without feeling like a splurge.

A dedicated travel fund, even modestly contributed to each month, transforms a dream into a plan. Planning well in advance allows for preferred accommodations and a more seamless experience — particularly for milestone events, sporting championships, or special celebrations.

Considering shoulder seasons often provides a more relaxed atmosphere, with fewer crowds and a deeper sense of place.

And perhaps most importantly, it helps to decide what truly matters. Luxury is not about more — it is about meaning. Whether that means a private guide who brings history to life, a well-located boutique hotel, or effortless logistics from beginning to end, discernment makes all the difference.

When travel is approached thoughtfully, it feels less like extravagance and more like stewardship — of time, of resources, and of relationships.

DESTINATIONS WITH HEART

Each season of life calls for something different. The beauty of travel is that it can be shaped to reflect exactly where you are.

FOR FAMILIES (OUR SPECIALTY)

Greece offers an extraordinary blend of history and coastal beauty, ideal for multigenerational travel. Athens provides cultural depth, while the Peloponnese and select islands allow for restoration by the sea.

Italy remains timeless — welcoming, layered, and endlessly engaging for both parents and children. With the right guide, centuries-old stories become vivid and accessible.

Costa Rica is a favorite for active families, offering wildlife, rainforest exploration, and time to unwind along the coast.

The key is balance: meaningful discovery paired with space to rest.

FOR COUPLES

Lake Como and the Amalfi Coast are cinematic in their beauty, perfect for lingering evenings and quiet mornings.

Provence and the French Riviera blend understated elegance with sensory richness — vineyards, markets, and coastal drives best enjoyed slowly.

An East African safari offers something altogether different: profound stillness, shared awe, and a reminder of how vast and beautiful the natural world truly is.

The most meaningful couples’ journeys are rarely rushed. They allow room to simply be together.

FOR WOMEN

Tuscany is a natural setting for gathering — villa stays, cooking classes, and long evenings that invite conversation. Paris offers inspiration at every turn, from museums to neighborhood cafés.

Wellness retreats in serene landscapes provide space for reflection and renewal.

These trips often become traditions — anchors of friendship amid full lives.

FOR SOLO FEMALE TRAVELERS

London offers sophistication and ease, making it an excellent introduction to solo exploration.

Portugal combines warmth, charm, and accessibility. Japan, particularly Tokyo and Kyoto, provides remarkable safety and cultural richness, offering independence supported by thoughtful infrastructure.

With careful preparation and trusted guidance, solo travel can be both empowering and deeply fulfilling.

THE RETURN THAT LASTS

The true gift of travel often reveals itself slowly. It appears in stories retold around the dinner table. In the confidence gained from navigating something unfamiliar. In the perspective that shifts ever so slightly — but permanently. Travel is not an escape from life. It enriches it. When chosen with intention and designed with care, it becomes part of a family’s legacy — a collection of shared moments that shape who we are and how we see the world.

And that is an investment that never loses its value.

ARTICLE BY CASEY CREQUE

INVEST

In HEALTH

“HEALTH IS A WHEELHOUSE, AND ONE MISSING PIECE CAN CAUSE DYSFUNCTION IN THE BODY.”

An investment in our health is arguably the most important one we can make, but this investment isn’t all monetary. It can be easy to get caught up in the latest trends or advice, so we sat down with Dr. Henry Lemley of HankMD to set the record straight. Here he shares a practical, prevention-focused approach to longevity as we discuss smart nutrition, effective exercise, preventative screenings, today’s most important health trends, and how small, consistent investments can yield lifelong returns.

INVEST IN YOUR OVERALL HEALTH FOR A FULL LIFE

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY ARE THE PRIMARY PILLARS OF GOOD HEALTH?

Health is a wheelhouse, and one missing piece can cause dysfunction in the body. I would say the most important pieces of the puzzle are metabolic health, movement, nutrition, sleep and recovery, and personal connection. By optimizing blood sugar, inflammation, and body composition, one can dramatically reduces risk for heart disease, stroke, dementia, and cancer.

ARE THERE CERTAIN “SUPERFOODS” YOU ENCOURAGE?

There’s no magic ingredient, but some foods consistently deliver high value.

Extra virgin olive oil for cardiovascular support, fatty fish for omega-3s and brain health, leafy greens and cruciferous vegetables for fiber and phytonutrients, berries for antioxidant density, nuts and seeds for healthy fats.

HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT THE NEW FOOD PYRAMID?

The USDA’s MyPlate model serves as a reasonable baseline, and it’s easier to understand, but broad guidelines can’t account for individual metabolic differences. In practice, I often emphasize adequate protein, non-starchy vegetables, healthy fats, and limiting refined grains.

WHAT DO YOU RECOMMEND FOR EXERCISE?

Exercise is the closest thing we have to a longevity drug. I focus on three lanes: Strength training to preserve muscle, bone density, and independence; mobility and stability work to reduce injury risk and

protect balance; cardiovascular conditioning including both steady activity and periodic higher intensity when appropriate.

WHAT ABOUT SUPPLEMENTS LIKE NAD, PROBIOTICS, COLLAGEN, PEPTIDES, CREATINE?

Supplements are additions, not foundations.

Creatine is one of the most studied and effective options for muscle strength and possibly cognitive support.

Protein supplementation can help when dietary intake falls short.

Probiotics can be useful in select cases, but I prefer focusing on dietary fiber and fermented foods first.

Collagen may support joint health when paired with resistance training.

NAD therapies and peptides are promising but still evolving. I use advanced interventions selectively and thoughtfully.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF HORMONE REPLACEMENT FOR MEN AND WOMEN?

Hormones regulate energy, muscle mass, bone density, cognition, and metabolism. For women in appropriate age windows, carefully prescribed hormone therapy can reduce vasomotor symptoms, protect bone density, and improve sleep and mood. For men with documented low testosterone and symptoms, replacement can improve strength, energy, bone density, and metabolic markers when dosed responsibly.

I favor delivery methods that provide stable levels and allow careful monitoring. Hormone therapy isn’t for everyone, but when done thoughtfully, it supports healthy aging.

CONTINUED >

WHY ARE REGULAR DOCTOR VISITS AND SCREENINGS IMPORTANT?

Most life-shortening diseases develop quietly. Regular visits allow early detection of risk patterns before symptoms appear. Screenings extend beyond cancer — they include cardiovascular risk assessment, metabolic monitoring, bone density, and personalized lifestyle planning. The key is ordering the right tests, interpreting them correctly, and acting early. Health is not a one-time event. It’s an ongoing strategy.

HOW DO YOU ASSESS A PERSON’S OVERALL HEALTH?

I assess trajectory, not just diagnosis. We begin with comprehensive labs tailored to age and risk profile — cardiovascular markers, metabolic health, inflammation, and when appropriate, hormones and advanced lipid analysis. I review family history, stress, sleep, nutrition, activity, and mental well-being to understand context.  Then we translate the data into a personalized plan and monitor longitudinally. The goal is course correction, not crisis management ensuring we are proactive, not reactive.

WHAT ABOUT INFRARED LIGHT, SAUNAS, COLD PLUNGES, AND MASSAGE?

These are recovery and resilience tools, not replacements for fundamentals. The common theme is adaptive stress followed by repair. Used wisely, these tools complement a strong health foundation.

HOW CAN PEOPLE CONTACT YOU?

Readers can reach me at HankMED LLC: 333 Whitesport Drive, SW, Suite 300 Huntsville, Alabama 35801

256-535-5945 www.HankMED.VIP

We’re always happy to answer questions or explore whether a proactive, longevity-focused approach is the right fit. Health should feel personal and so should your physician relationship.

Medicine 3.0 has arrived in Huntsville. Health isn’t complicated but it is intentional. Dr. Lemley’s focus is on metabolic health, cardiovascular risk reduction, muscle preservation and strength, hormone optimization (when appropriate), advanced laboratory screening, and longevity strategy—not just disease management. This is proactive, relationship-based medicine designed for adults who want to stay strong, sharp, and independent for decades.

Compassionate, Comprehensive

THERAPY

If you’re tired of holding everything together, you’re not alone. You’re capable, but overwhelmed. When burnout keeps circling back and “I’ll figure it out” no longer works, it’s time for support. You deserve a therapist who sees the full picture... your hormones, trauma, sleep, cycles, and emotional health. Together, we’ll help you find lasting peace so you can feel like yourself again.

therapyhuntsville.com

256-701-5292

@thehuntsvilletherapist

2327 Pansy Street SW

Invest in Therapy

The Huntsville Therapist Stephanie Cashin shares why you should take to the time to talk

ARTICLE BY STEPHANIE CASHIN

Burnout isn’t a personality flaw. It’s biology: a body that’s been running beyond its capacity for too long. And eventually, the body does what it’s designed to do, forces a stop.

Not always dramatically. More often, it happens quietly.

It looks like waking up tired even after a full night in bed.

Cravings and crashes you can’t “discipline” your way out of.

A shorter fuse, a flatter mood, a chest that stays tight for no obvious reason.

And for many women, a cycle that suddenly feels unfamiliar.

Almost every week, I hear some version of the same sentence in my office:

“I used to be able to handle more.”

They don’t mean they used to be more motivated. They mean their system used to have more bandwidth.

As a licensed clinical social worker who has helped hundreds of burned out women return to safety in their bodies, I have seen the effects of burnout on our thoughts, emotions, relationships, and sense of self.

And I’ve learned this: when someone is depleted, we cannot treat it like a mindset issue alone. We have to look at the whole person: sleep, stress response, appetite and energy patterns, cycle changes, and the cumulative load the body has been carrying for too long.

Because when burnout is framed as purely psychological, recovery becomes moralized. People start treating exhaustion like a personal failure. They start “working on themselves” in ways that only add more pressure.

And if burnout were only in your head, a long weekend would fix it.

But burnout lives in the body.

One way this shows up is that the “collapse” often comes after the crisis.

Emily* came to see me during a high-conflict divorce. Not because she was falling apart, but because she was determined not to. She was managing the legal strategy, the custody calendar, the finances, and the emotional temperature of her home.

She stayed tense, lived on coffee, and grabbed whatever she could between meetings. Her labs were “fine.” She was exhausted, but “who wouldn’t be?”

Then the divorce finalized. The house sold. The custody agreement stabilized. And within months, her body changed.

It was as if her system finally stopped bracing long enough to register the cost.

She developed stiffness in her hands, swelling in her knuckles, and fatigue that sleep didn’t fix. She started waking up achy in the mornings, like she’d slept wrong… except she hadn’t. She was later diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis.

Not because she caused it. Not because she failed. But because physiology adapts to load, and then adapts again when the load shifts.

We worked together for months to help her body come out of constant bracing, process what she had been carrying, and rebuild steadier capacity so she could move through stress and a new diagnosis without living in survival mode.

When you learn to move through burnout with the right kind of support, your system doesn’t have to stay braced all the time.

You sleep more steadily.

Your reactions slow down.

You respond to stress without your heart racing before you’ve even assessed the situation.

You make decisions without feeling hijacked, and you can show up for your work and your kids without spending every last ounce of yourself just to hold it together.

Life is still full. Sometimes heavy. Sometimes unfair.

But your body no longer treats every hard moment like it’s an emergency. Over time, those small, repeatable reinvestments compound into something high-achieving women crave most: dependable capacity.

THE BOULDER PROBLEM: WHEN EFFORT DOESN’T MOVE THE NEEDLE

One of the truest definitions of burnout I know is this: burnout doesn’t come from working hard. It comes from work that doesn’t move the needle like using all your might to push against a boulder that won’t budge.

CONTINUED >

That metaphor matters because the body does not measure stress by the size of the task. It measures stress by whether the task ever resolves.

When you pour effort into something that stays stuck…an unfixable relationship dynamic, a role with impossible expectations, or a season of chronic uncertainty your brain and body do what they’re designed to do: they brace so you can keep going.

That bracing is not weakness. It’s physiology.

But when bracing becomes the default setting, the cost shows up somewhere. Your body starts making tradeoffs.

WHEN BANDWIDTH COLLAPSES FIRST

People often think burnout should look like lying on the couch staring at the ceiling. But many women in the early stages of burnout still look “high functioning.” They are showing up. They are producing. They are holding it together.

In those early stages, stress hormones are often doing exactly what they were designed to do.

Here is the only line about cortisol you really need: cortisol isn’t the villain. Cortisol is a tool. In the short term, it helps you wake up, focus, respond to emergencies, and access energy.

The problem isn’t that your body has a stress response.

It’s that your body has been asked to run that response for too long.

Here are a few of the places chronic stress and depleted capacity tend to show up first.

1) STRESS RESPONSE: ALWAYS “ON”

When life asks more of you than your system can sustainably give, your stress response stays activated. Sometimes you still feel functional. Sometimes you feel wired. Sometimes you feel both wired and tired.

This is the part that confuses people. They think, “If I’m burnt out, why can I still push?”

Because, in the short term, stress physiology can be a powerful compensator.

But compensation is not resilience.

2) SLEEP DISRUPTION

One of the clearest signs your bandwidth is depleted is when you cannot downshift.

You are tired, but your brain will not turn off.

You fall asleep and wake up at 3 a.m. with a mind that suddenly wants to solve every problem you have ever had, replay every conversation that left you gutted, and draft emails you would never send in daylight.

Or you sleep “enough,” but you never feel restored.

That is not laziness. That is a system struggling to recover.

3) BLOOD SUGAR VOLATILITY: CRAVINGS AND CRASHES

When the body is under chronic stress, it reaches for quick fuel.

That can look like strong cravings, energy dips, irritability that spikes when you haven’t eaten, or the all-too-familiar pattern of: “I’m fine… I’m fine… I’m fine… I need a snack immediately or I will cry.”

It’s nearly impossible to regulate your emotions when your blood sugar is on a roller coaster.

And it’s hard to stabilize blood sugar when your nervous system is constantly braced for impact.

4) RESILIENCE DOWN (THE BUFFER DISAPPEARS)

When capacity is low, your system gets less flexible. In psychology, we call this your window of tolerance—the range in which your nervous system can handle stress without tipping into overwhelm or shutdown.

You can also think of it as your buffer.

When you’re well-rested and supported, that window is wide. Minor stress rolls through. You adapt. You recover.

But when your reserves are depleted, the window narrows.

Small stressors that used to feel like no big deal start to feel personal. Decision fatigue hits sooner. Recovery takes longer.

It’s not that you suddenly became fragile or incapable. It’s that your window narrowed.

5) MOOD SHIFTS THAT FEEL RANDOM

Burnout can look like irritability, or flatness, or anxiety that seems to come out of nowhere.

From a mental health lens, we always take emotions seriously.  From a whole-body lens, we also ask:  What is the state of the system carrying that emotion?

Because if your internal bandwidth is depleted, everything feels louder. Small frustrations hit harder.

Uncertainty feels more threatening. Even things you used to love require more effort.

It’s not that your mood is random, it’s that your system is overloaded.  What looks emotional can often be physiological. It’s not chaos, it’s data.

6) CYCLE CHANGES, PMS SHIFTS, LIBIDO CHANGES

For many women, chronic stress doesn’t just show up in mood. It shows up in the ovulatory cycle.

PMS gets louder. Cycles shorten or stretch out. Libido shifts…sometimes disappearing entirely.

This can feel alarming. It can also feel strangely dismissible when you’re told, “That’s normal.” But normal is not the same as optimal.

Your ovulatory cycle is not random. It’s a coordinated conversation between your brain and your ovaries; between your nervous system, stress hormones, metabolic status, and sense of safety.

When stress becomes chronic, the brain reallocates resources. Reproduction is not a survival priority, so the body makes tradeoffs.

And what you feel is “worse PMS,” heavier emotional swings, sleep disruption, or a libido that feels like it packed a bag and left.

When I see cycle shifts show up alongside sleep disruption and a shrinking window of tolerance, it’s no longer “just stress” and needs to be treated like a full-system capacity issue.

Your cycle is not an inconvenience. It’s one of the clearest monthly reports on capacity you have and when it changes, it’s rarely random.

THE PART PEOPLE MISS: YOU CAN LOOK “FINE” AND STILL BE RUNNING OUT OF CAPACITY

In the early stages of burnout, many women are still high functioning. They are showing up, producing, and staying charming and dependable. From the outside, nothing looks wrong; but internally, the effort is increasing.

The cracks don’t show because they stopped caring. They show because the body can only sprint for so long.

And while you don’t need a label for what stage you’re in, if you keep finding yourself saying, “I used to be able to handle more,” hear it for what it is.

Not proof you’re weaker or you’ve lost your edge.

It’s a message that your capacity has changed. And when capacity changes pretending it hasn’t only accelerates the decline. So please listen to what your body is saying. It whispers before it shouts.

WHY QUICK FIXES DON’T RESTORE BANDWIDTH

When someone realizes they’re burned out, their first instinct is often to reach for relief: a day off, a long weekend, a massage, a bubble bath. And while those things are lovely, relief is not the same as reinvestment.

Time away can reduce demand or quiet symptoms, and it gives you a taste of what better feels like. But if your baseline capacity is depleted, the moment your life starts again, your system snaps right back into bracing. That’s why people come back from a long weekend and feel like they need a vacation from their vacation.

Your nervous system is not being dramatic; it’s doing math. If you return to the same demand with the same depleted capacity, the equation stays the same.

REINVESTMENT:

HOW CAPACITY ACTUALLY GETS REBUILT

Reinvestment is rebuilding capacity physically, hormonally, and neurologically so your life stops feeling like an endless open tab. Not “try harder but prettier.” Not “optimize your morning routine.” CONTINUED >

The unsexy truth is that reinvestment is slow. Not because you are doing it wrong.  Because you’re not fixing a thought, or changing your mindset. You are rebuilding a system.

Here are four categories of reinvestment that tend to matter most.

1) NERVOUS SYSTEM REINVESTMENT

You rebuild bandwidth by teaching the body to downshift consistently.

Not one dramatic spa day.

Small, repeatable signals of safety.

This might look like:

• getting outside in the morning for a few minutes of daylight

• a short walk after dinner

• breathwork you actually enjoy

• transitions between roles, instead of sprinting from one task into the next

The goal is not to become a person who never feels stress.

It’s to become a person whose system returns toward baseline.

2) METABOLIC REINVESTMENT

Capacity isn’t just emotional; it’s biological. When blood sugar is unstable, everything feels harder. When you’re under-fueled, your nervous system reads that as threat. And when you’re depleted, you don’t “think” your way back into energy you rebuild it.

This might mean:

• prioritizing protein early in the day

• hydrating more consistently

• eating in a rhythm that prevents crashing

• choosing gentle movement that supports, not punishes

Think: steady inputs that reduce internal chaos.

3) BOUNDARY REINVESTMENT

(REDUCE BOULDER WORK)

Part of rebuilding capacity is reducing demand. That doesn’t always mean doing less forever, but it does mean being honest about what is boulder work- high effort with little or no movement. Where are you pushing against something that simply will not budge?

Reinvestment can look like:

• saying no to one thing a week

• changing the order you do tasks so you stop bleeding bandwidth early

• creating recovery windows you protect like an appointment

• stopping the habit of volunteering for responsibilities that are not yours

If demand keeps rising, you can reinvest all day and still feel behind.

Capacity can’t outgrow an environment that constantly extracts.

4) CONNECTION REINVESTMENT

Burnout isolates. Not always socially…sometimes internally. You can be surrounded by people and still feel alone if you are constantly braced. Connection requires bandwidth, depth requires presence and laughter requires a nervous system that isn’t stuck on high alert.

Reinvestment might mean:

• one relationship where you do not have to perform competence

• one weekly touchpoint that makes your body feel softer

• one honest conversation that reduces the hidden stress load

HEAR ME WHEN I SAY: YOUR BODY ISN’T FAILING YOU

Your body is doing what it is designed to do: protecting you from a level of demand that has exceeded capacity for too long.

Burnout is not a character flaw.

And recovery is not a breakthrough.

It’s reinvestment– small, repeatable, body-level deposits that compound slowly until your system can hold your real life again.

If you do one thing after reading this, let it be this: choose one reinvestment you can repeat this week.

Not the perfect plan.

A repeatable plan.

Because reinvestment is not a one-time reset.

It’s the steady compounding of capacity.

Over time, your sleep gets deeper, your reactions get slower, your relationships get easier to stay present in, and your work stops costing you your health.

You do not just “cope” better. You recover faster.

You stop living like everything is urgent.

And you start trusting that your body can hold your real life again.

INVEST IN COMMUNITY

ARTICLE BY COOPER SMITHERMAN

A LOOK INSIDE HOW THE BULLPEN FOUNDATION IS INVESTING IN YOUTH SPORTS IN THE COMMUNITY

“I knew I wanted to stay engaged in youth sports because it was a big part of my life growing up.”

Youth sports serve as the foundation for many kids’ lives, but the unfortunate reality is that many young athletes lack access to the resources that contribute to their success. Jason Landers has made it his mission to fill this need for Huntsville’s youngest baseball and softball players. While he helps families secure their financial futures as a financial advisor during the week, he extends his investment into the Huntsville community as Chairman of The Bullpen Foundation on weeknights and weekends. By helping athletes pay their registration fees and obtain much-needed equipment such as batting helmets, gloves, cleats, and bat bags, Jason and The Bullpen have already leveled the playing field for many young athletes.

After a childhood spent playing baseball, Jason has always tried to stay connected to the sport. For seven years, he coached his son’s youth baseball team, and

couldn’t help but view the sport through a new lens. Every gameday, he watched as talented players made the most of worn-out shoes, cheap and flimsy gloves, and dented bats. He couldn’t shake the feeling that these players were at a disadvantage compared to the players who had brand new, top-notch gear. Once Jason started talking with parents and other coaches, he discovered just how many players struggled to even pay registration fees, let alone afford new equipment.

While he decided to step away from coaching once his son started playing for Grissom High, Jason said, “I knew I wanted to stay engaged in youth sports because it was a big part of my life growing up.” He quickly realized he could stay engaged by supporting the many kids that struggle to keep up with the costs of the sport. With a couple of friends, he embarked on a grassroots campaign and founded The Bullpen Foundation in 2022.

The Bullpen’s tagline reads: “Strengthening Our Community Through Youth Sports.” To accomplish this goal for athletes aged 6–12, The Bullpen has consistently sought out new opportunities for fundraising and fostering community connections. Every year, Huntsville’s Parks and Recreation department sends Jason a list of families in need. With help from corporate partners such as Winning Edge, The Bullpen buys a new batting helmet, glove, pair of cleats, and bat bag for the athletes on the list and pays their season registration fees. Just last fall, The Bullpen received approximately $100,000 in grants to support athletes in need, and Jason hopes this number will continue to grow.

For Jason, the key to building The Bullpen has been consistently showing up. One of the biggest hurdles at the beginning was establishing trust with local parks and parents and demonstrating the nonprofit’s commitment to

“But our goal is to eventually expand into the county in North Alabama.”

the community. Jason said he was often asked, “What’s your endgame here?” or “Why are you doing this?” Over time, accusatory questions turned into emails from grateful parents and more partnerships with local parks and businesses. Doubt and uncertainty about striking out turned into motivation and real visible impact as he watched more kids smile upon receiving a shiny new bat and more kids pour into baseball and softball camps.

Jason credits many people for The Bullpen’s success. He claims he couldn’t have gotten started without Chris Hanback, The Bullpen’s founding board member. While Chris completed his term and is no longer on the board, Jason states that “Chris was instrumental in helping launch the organization” and establish valuable relationships within the community. Jason also heaped praise on the

current board members, Robert Dowling, Joe Yearta, Matt Davis, Tony McGinnis and Amanda Ahmed, for maintaining The Bullpen’s momentum and planning its future directions for serving the youth sports community in Huntsville.

Despite The Bullpen’s incredible impact on Huntsville youth, Jason knows that the problem still poses great concern. When I asked him about the nonprofit’s future, he said, “I don’t think we’ve even hit the tip of the iceberg as far as what the need is in just Huntsville city. But our goal is to eventually expand into the county in North Alabama.” Even if The Bullpen is still in its opening stages, it has already been a home run for so many of Huntsville’s young athletes. With its upcoming equipment drive on March 14th at Milton Frank Stadium, The Bullpen hopes to collect more new or gently used equipment than ever before to give back to the athletes that need it most. Additionally, The Bullpen’s Kickball Fundraiser—its signature event—will be held on May 3 rd at Wick’s Family Field at Joe Davis Stadium. Jason describes the tournament as “a Sunday afternoon of fun and kickball games” to support The Bullpen’s mission and bring some more fun into the city. Additionally, The Bullpen hosts a free baseball and softball camp at Lee High School every November to continue to provide athletes with what they need most: access to high-quality resources and training. While the problem may be far from resolved, Jason has high hopes for what The Bullpen Foundation can accomplish for the greater Huntsville area. He hopes to continue doing everything he can to invest in our youth sports community and to ensure that these athletes are as prepared and confident as possible.

How a local non profit is spearheading efforts to invest in our environment through sustainable practices

INVEST IN SUSTAINABILITY

ARTICLE BY CASEY CREQUE

In the heart of Alabama’s fastest-growing city, a small but determined nonprofit is making a big impact. The Huntsville Environmental Coalition (HEC) is dedicated to shaping Huntsville into a model for sustainable urban development. By bringing together businesses, individuals, and local organizations, HEC is working to ensure the city’s rapid growth doesn’t come at the expense of its environment.

“Our mission is simple but ambitious,” says Emily Canfield, a board member for HEC. “We want Huntsville to be known as a city that invests in sustainable practices.”

HEC’s vision is a future where Huntsville embraces public transit, prioritizes walkable neighborhoods, integrates green infrastructure, and champions nature-positive policies and is building it through hands-on projects and community initiatives.

PILOTING CHANGE AT THE TABLE

HEC’s most exciting initiative is the EAT Program—Earth At the Table, a local certification system for sustainable dining. Inspired by the Alabama Environmental Council’s statewide initiative, HEC decided to pilot and expand it to Huntsville.

EAT celebrates restaurants, cafes, breweries, and other food establishments that commit to greener practices. Businesses earn certification by reducing single-use plastics, cutting down food waste, sourcing from local farms, and offering more plant-based options.

Depending on their score, establishments are recognized at Asteroid, Moon, Planet, Star, or Galaxy levels. This system makes it easy for diners to support eco-friendly businesses, while giving restaurants recognition for their sustainability efforts.

LOCAL LEADERS ON THE MENU

Hippea Camper and the Orion Amphitheater have each achieved Galaxy Level status while Vujee Vegan represents Planet Level recognition.

WHY IT MATTERS FOR HUNTSVILLE

As Huntsville grows it faces the challenge of balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility. HEC President Ankur Shah explains, “We see it as a starting point for bigger conversations about sustainability—how we move, how we build, and how we live together in this city.”

GET INVOLVED

By supporting EAT-certified establishments or volunteering with HEC, anyone can contribute to a more sustainable Huntsville.

HEC hosts Green Drinks on the last Wednesday of each month featuring a guest speaker and offering a space to share ideas. Meetings: https://www.meetup.com/huntsville-green-drinks-green-thinks/ Follow @hsv_environment

Redefining MVP: TIM TEBOW’S LIFE BEYOND FOOTBALL

An exclusive Q&A with City Lifestyle

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

From championship trophies to global humanitarian impact, Tim Tebow’s journey has defied every standard playbook. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Tebow pulls back the curtain on the moments that truly defined him, from a humbling middle school church retreat to the life-altering shift of fatherhood. This isn’t just a look back at a career; it’s an invitation into the heart of a man driven by purpose. Read the highlights below, then join us for the full, unfiltered experience by scanning the QR code at the end.

Q: WE ALL KNOW YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS ON THE FOOTBALL FIELD, BUT TELL US ABOUT THE CURL CONTEST.

A: I was competing for my future high school team (my brother’s team), and I pushed myself way past what was smart. I ended up collapsing and needing medical attention. But what stayed with me wasn’t the pain, it was the lesson. Would I be willing to do something that others aren’t? For much of my life, I strived to bring my best for a game, but I hope that I can say at the end of my life I was willing to do that for things that actually matter.

Q: YOU’VE ACHIEVED SO MUCH IN SPORTS. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS YOUR GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT NOW?

A: Becoming a dad. Nothing compares. From the moment I knew my wife was pregnant, I felt a new depth of love for our child, but when you bring your baby home, the responsibility hits you like nothing else. Suddenly, everything you see, every decision you make, you’re asking, “Is this corner too sharp? What happens if she reaches that drawer?” It changes how you see the world and how you see other people.

Q: YOU’VE SPOKEN OPENLY ABOUT DISAPPOINTMENT, ESPECIALLY AROUND FOOTBALL. HOW DID THAT SEASON OF LIFE SHAPE YOU?

A: I talked a lot about that very thing in my book Shaken . We all go through moments where our faith in our abilities and purpose feels rattled, but I believe it’s often in those storms when God can show us who we could become.

Q: YOU TALK A LOT ABOUT COMPARISON CULTURE. WHY DO YOU BELIEVE COMPARISON HAS BECOME SUCH A TRAP TODAY?

A: Because we’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel. Social media shows people’s “best day,” often filtered and staged, and then we measure our reality against that. There’s a reason filters are so popular—it’s not real. We end up scrolling through images that don’t tell the full story, and without realizing it, comparison starts to steal our joy and our gratitude.

“We’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel... comparison starts to steal our joy.”

Q: YOUR FOUNDATION FOCUSES ON THE “MOST VULNERABLE.” WHERE DID THAT CALLING BEGIN?

A: When I was 15, I met a boy in the Philippines who was treated as a throwaway because he was born with physical differences. That moment changed me. I realized God was calling me to pursue a different kind of MVP, not “Most Valuable Player,” but “Most Vulnerable People.”

Q: FINALLY, WHAT’S ONE THING PEOPLE MIGHT BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?

A: I have some weird coffee habits, which include protein powder, collagen, and cream all mixed together. I love golf dates with my wife. And every night, I bring snacks to bed to share with our dogs. It brings me more joy than it probably should.

This conversation barely scratches the surface. Tim goes deeper into the moments that rattled him, the joys of fatherhood, and one story he has never shared publicly until now. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on Share the Lifestyle Podcast.

ARTICLE BY ALLISON SWAN

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

Inquiring Chef

START WITH A VEGETABLE

Jess Smith is the founder of the popular food blog InquiringChef. com, which she started in 2010 after moving to Thailand with her husband. She explored Thai cuisine, took cooking classes, and documented her experiences on the blog. Over time, her passion for cooking grew, leading her to focus on quick, easy meals for families. Today, Inquiring Chef receives over 5 million page views annually and supports a small team. She shares new recipes weekly through email, her blog, and social media, helping home cooks simplify mealtime without sacrificing flavor.

Smith is now an author. Her debut cookbook,  Start with a Vegetable, published in 2025 reimagines meal planning by putting vegetables at the center of the plate.

“Start with a Vegetable was the result of a natural transition in the way I started thinking about preparing dinner for my family. At the end of a busy day, I often didn't have the energy to think about dinner in parts by preparing a separate protein, vegetable, and starch,” says Smith. “I realized that if I put a vegetable at the center of the dish, the rest was easy to fill in.”

The book features 100 flexible recipes proving vegetables aren’t just a side—they’re key to simple, satisfying meals.

As chief recipe developer for the Cook Smarts meal-planning app, Smith worked closely with families struggling to get dinner on the table. She noticed a common challenge: people wanted to eat more vegetables but didn’t know how to build meals around them.

“As I started planning and testing recipes for the book, I just loved how easy it made dinnertime feel. Are there carrots in the fridge? Here are a bunch of ways to turn them into dinner. Nearly all of the 100 recipes are complete meals and include easy swaps to make them vegetarian. The book is truly flexitarian, with vegetable-forward recipes for all types of eaters.”

Unlike most cookbooks,  Start with a Vegetable is organized by ingredient. Each chapter focuses on a different vegetable, offering multiple ways to turn it into a meal.

“The concept is resonating with many readers who tell me they love that the chapters are organized by vegetable, making it easy to use whatever they have on hand.”

Smith went through a rigorous testing process, starting with over 300 ideas before narrowing them down to 100.

“I always have running lists of recipe ideas. I started sorting recipes into categories, making sure there was variety for each vegetable. I wanted different cooking methods and types of dishes, so each chapter might have a soup, a salad, a roasted dish, a stove-top dish, and a sandwich or pasta.”

After perfecting the recipes in her own kitchen, she passed them to a trusted friend, an everyday home cook, to ensure they worked under real-world conditions.

“I want to know how these recipes worked for a home cook who was shopping at regular grocery stores and trying to make dinner for a family on a weeknight. She sends me feedback on any ingredients that are hard to find, anything that is unclear in the recipe, and tracks how long it takes her to make it with reallife interruptions.”

To further refine the book, Smith enlisted 30 volunteer home cooks through Instagram and her email list to test the recipes.

“My goal was to ensure that the recipes in this book are reliable, easy, and adaptable. I wanted this to be a cookbook for real home cooks. I'm so grateful to that team of volunteers for helping to ensure that it is.”

To order a copy of the cookbook visit: InquiringChef.com

3 Ledge View Drive, Huntsville, AL, 35802

8 BD / 11 BA / 13,716 SQ.FT. | Experience elevated living in The Ledges, Huntsville’s premier gated golf community. This private estate offers stunning bluff views, refined architectural details, multiple suites, elevator access, and access to resortstyle amenities for true luxury living.

|

26 Acre Estate in Southeast Alabama

$2,995,000

262 County Road 664, Coffee Springs, AL, 36318 Connor Brookman +1 (256) 7

3 BD / 4 BA / 2,582 SQ.FT. | This remarkable 26-acre property features five distinct buildings, including a main house, historic cabin, boathouse, workshop, and art studio. Thoughtfully designed and privately set, the estate blends craftsmanship, creativity, and space for living, working, and retreating

|

118 Creekmound Drive, Huntsville, AL, 35806

Convenient Living on Large Lot

$1,400,000

5 BD / 4 BA / 4,304 SQ.FT. | Beautiful 1-acre property with open-concept living, vibrant interiors, wood floors, cozy gas FP, and a well-appointed kitchen with quartz, island, and walk-in pantry Primary suite w/ huge closet + laundry Loft, family room, and great outdoor space backing to Indian Creek.

Brian May +1 (256) 497-6780 | brian may@evrealestate

Newly Developed RV Park in Troy, Alabama

$789,000

19.86 ACRES | Trojan Station RV Park in Troy, Alabama is a newly developed hospitality asset opened in November 2023 The 19 86-acre property offers 76 RV sites with highway frontage, strong visibility, expansion potential, and demand driven by Troy University and the Troy Sportsplex.

$1,800,000

Congratulations to our 2026 Directors

RECOGNIZING ADVISORS WHO EXEMPLIFY OUR CORE VALUES, LEADERSHIP AND COMMITMENT TO EXTRAORDINARY SERVICE.

Each year, Engel & Völkers recognizes advisors whose performance, leadership and dedication reflect the very best of our global brand. Our 2026 Directors are trusted experts who enrich the Engel & Völkers' experience across North Alabama guiding clients with professionalism, local insight and mastery within their specialty fields. Their continued contributions strengthen our shops, elevate our service offering and uphold our reputation for luxury service throughout the region.

BRIAN MAY • MRP Advisor Director of Regional Sales brian.may@evrealestate.com

SHALU HOLMAN • CLHMS

Associate Broker Director of Luxury Sales shalu.holman@evrealestate.com

MIKE FLEMING • SRES

Associate Broker Director of Commercial Services mike.fleming@evrealestate.com

CHARLIE WELLS

Associate Broker Director of Luxury Historic Properties charlie.wells@evrealestate.com

CONNOR BROOKMAN

Qualifying Broker Director of Development Services connor.brookman@evrealestate.com

APRIL 2ND

Donna Wisemer Gallery Opening

The Little Green Store and Gallery | 5:00 PM

Don't miss the opening night of Donna Wisemer's abstract art gallery. Donna creates layered, experimental abstract artwork that allows viewers to experience and interpret without limits. The authenticity of her work expresses a newness to the viewer bringing him or her alive. @thelittlegreenstore @donnaj.art

APRIL 2ND-5TH

Theatre Huntsville presents "A

VBC Playhouse | 7:00 PM

Streetcar Named Desire"

Whether you're a longtime fan of classic theatre or just love a gripping story that digs deep into human emotion, Streetcar is a must-see.

Experience the emotional gut-punch of one of America's most haunting plays, performed live with a stellar local cast. Experience the raw emotion and Southern gothic drama - get your tickets now at theatreHSV.org

APRIL 3RD

First Friday Public Art Tours

305 Fountain Cir SW Huntsville, AL 35801 | 4:30 PM

This tour presented by ServisFirst Bank offers art enthusiasts a chance to explore "Our Civic Canvas" Art collection within City Hall. The tour is free but space is limited. Sign up at artshuntsville.org/tickets-and-passes

LOCAL EXPERTISE GLOBAL REACH

CONTINUED

APRIL 4TH & 11TH

Historic Walking Tour of Twickenham

109 Gates Ave. Huntsville, AL 35801 10:00 AM

Enjoy a 1-2 hour stroll by some of Alabama's most beautiful antebellum mansions. Your guide will share stories about the homes' owners as well as recognizing each site's distinctive style. Leashed pets and strollers welcome. Visit huntsville. org for more information.

APRIL 4TH

Easter Jubilee

Burritt on the Mountain | 11:00 AM

Grab your Easter basket and head to Burritt on the Mountain to collect eggs and treats from frontier friends, pan for gems at their sluice, meet barnyard animals and make some Easter crafts to take home.

APRIL 9TH-11TH

Rocket City Wine Festival

Participating locations in Downtown Huntsville | 5:00 PM

Enjoy this three-day celebration of wine, food, and community with curated wine tastings, delicious cuisine and meaningful connections—all while supporting local charities dedicated to making a real difference in our community. Visit rocketcitywinefest.com for more information and tickets.

APRIL 11TH

American Heart Association Heart Ball

Von Braun Center | 5:30 PM

The Heart Ball is one of Huntsville's biggest fundraisers of the year. This black tie dinner and auction celebrates our collective success in driving change, funding science and improving health outcomes for everyone, everywhere. Visit americanheartbirmingham.ejoinme. com for more information and tickets

APRIL 17TH-19TH

The Sleeping Beauty Ballet

Mark C. Smith Concert Hall | 7:30 PM

This production by Huntsville Ballet Company features Tchaikovsky’s score and showcases the classical tale of Princess Aurora. Tickets are available, with some performances highlighting over 100 dancers and musicians. Tickets available through huntsvilleballet.org or the Von Braun Center.

APRIL 17TH

Rod Stewart: One Last Time

The Orion Ampitheatre | 7:30 PM

Don't miss the chance to see one of the best-selling artists in the history of recorded music, Sir Rod Stewart, as he tours "One Last Time." Tickets available at theorionhuntsville.com

CONTINUED >

CONTINUED

APRIL 18TH

Battle Of The Buffalo

Big Spring Park | 12:00 PM

Don't miss the annual downtown wing festival benefitting the Russell Hill Cancer Foundation in memory of Paul "Fish" Salmon. Taste thye wings and sauces from local restaurants and wing enthusiasts alike. Bring the whole family for people's choice awards, kids activities, and live entertainment.

APRIL 23RD

W. Kleinberg & Sabina Savage Trunk Show

Carriage House 115 Johnston St SE # 101, Decatur, AL 35601 | 10:00 AM

Select from the finest exotic skins to design your Custom, Made-To-Order Belts and Bags from W.Kleinberg. And Sshop the latest collection of Sabina Savage’s artfully designed English scarves, and learn new ways to tie, wear, and incorporate them into your wardrobe everyday.

APRIL 24TH-26TH

Panoply Arts Festival

Big Spring Park | 5:00 PM

Panoply is the Southeast’s premier arts weekend, where Huntsville’s innovative spark shines through a festival of art, music, and more! Bring the whole family and enjoy art exhibits, food trucks, live music and kids activities. Day passes are $15 and weekend passes are $20. Kids 12 and under are free! See event details at artshuntsville.org

Take Me To Church

HYMNS THAT REMIND US OF OUR ROOTS

ARTICLE BY CASEY CREQUE

Huntsvillians share their favorite church hymns

Laudes Domini - This is a melody that our church organist frequently played as a solo recessional, as the congregation was leaving. It meant we were headed to Shoney’s for the lunch buffet. Now when I hear it, it still makes me happy…and hungry.  - Brad Clasgens, AVIQ

What a Friend we have in Jesus - My grandmother relied on this song to get her through hard moments and I have sang this song to myself in my darkest days of life especially at night when I was trying to go to sleep. - Pastor Bill Crosby, Huntsville United Methodist Church

My Shepherd Will Supply My Needs - Takes me back to being a child and feeling an abundance of love. A love so powerful it brings tears to my eyes. Dr. Henry Lemley- HankMD

Beulah Land - This song has been played at many funerals I’ve been to and it makes me think of Heaven and the reward waiting for me when I hear it. - Keaton Jones, LJ Roofing and Exteriors

It Is Well With My Soul - It doesn’t matter what comes our way, it must be well with our souls. - Tracie Dollarhide, Green Mountain Realty

Amazing Grace - It’s a reflection on the power of transformation and the assurance of being loved. -Lourie Bradley

If you were raised in a Southern church, there’s something about a traditional hymn that stirs a deep nostalgia. Creased hymnals and steady piano melodies. Children taking turns ringing the church bell. Homemade communion bread and lingering meals after the final amen. While every story is a little different, we’re all just one familiar verse away from a trip back to the “good ole days.” These cherished songs carry memories of community and fellowship, love and comfort, especially as we gather and celebrate Easter this month.

Home Is Where The Park Is

Yes, literally!

Imagine living INSIDE a 500-acre city park

Not near it. Not next to it. Inside it. At Hays Farm, nature isn’t just a backdrop—it’s your front yard, backyard, and everyday escape. With over 10 miles of scenic trails, lush green spaces, and a city-maintained 500-acre park, you get all the beauty without the upkeep.

But there’s more than just nature—Hays Farm is designed for the way you want to live, with resort-style amenities and two distinct neighborhoods offering a variety of lot sizes and price points. And when you’re ready for shopping, dining, or entertainment, everything is just minutes away.

Come experience life inside a 500-acre city park—yes, we really mean inside the park. Contact us today to find your dream home, perfectly nestled in nature at Hays Farm.