NW Georgia Living

Inspiring, Informing, Enriching

Complimentary CELEBRATION 2014 Volume 5, Issue 3

N W G E O R G I A

5Winner of

MAGS GAMMA AWARDS

Celebrate!Divine Local DiningFinding Your Zen

Healthier Southern FareBarnsley Resort: Rich in History and Adventure

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Merle Norman—Cedartown

230 Main St.Cedartown, GA 30125

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Merle Norman—Cartersville

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Merle Norman—Calhoun

110 Wc Bryant Pkwy.Calhoun, GA 30701

706-629-8182Mon–Fri 10am–6pmSat 10am–5:30pm

Finding Your Zen 6

Divine Local Dining 16

Barnsley Resorts: Rich in History and Adventure 22

Timeless Traditions for Today’s Hostesses 30

Raise a Glass 34

Southern Fare on the Healthier Side 38

FEATURES Editor’s Note 4

Calendar for Living 8

Dog Eared 12

You Don’t Say 14

Social Savvy 20

Heart & Sole: 28

Roberts World 42

Ad Directory 44

DEPARTMENTSCONTENTSCover photography by Patricia Montgomery.

Inspiring, Informing, Enriching

Complimentary CELEBRATION 2014 Volume 5, Issue 3

N W G E O R G I A

5Winner of

MAGS GAMMA AWARDS

Celebrate!Divine Local DiningFinding Your Zen

Healthier Southern FareBarnsley Resort: Rich in History and Adventure

N W G E O R G I A6

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30

38

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2 www.nwgeorgialiving.com

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Annie Get Your Gun

Just before dawn, we were trying to quietly cross the field and head into the woods. Seemingly, with every step, a twig would break and the forest was listening. We crouched down with our backs against trees, fully dressed from head to toe in camo, hoping they would not see us. I, being a totally girly girl,

was out of my element. “No talking and no movement of any kind,” the guide told us. I turned my head to listen to his whisper and he reiterated, “Nooo movement.” Geez, how can I sit for hours and not talk or move? Then I heard it, and listened more intently. It was the call of wild turkeys, and they were everywhere.

Earlier that week, my fortune cookie message said, “You will enjoy doing some-thing different this coming weekend.” When I told Winston, my son, that I was going turkey hunting and skeet shooting at Barnsley Resort, he asked in disbelief, “You’re going turkey hunting?” It was like I had just told him that I was going to land on the moon. It is something most people who know me would never expect. I knew it was going to be a challenge just to get up at dark thirty. The real test would

be could I enjoy hunting wild animals? Of course, I had to have a cute camo ensemble. For any sport, dress the part and look good even if you are lousy at the game. Well, for my first time ever to hunt I looked good. Did I wear make-up? Just the most natural touches so as not to scare the turkeys!

The day before, we went skeet shooting to prep for the big hunt. First, the trapper showed me how to properly

hold the shotgun and align my vision down the barrel of the gun. I held it up with my cheek planted firmly against the stock and he stated, “You’re going to be a natural.” And amazingly, I was pretty good at shooting skeet. Who would have known? Certainly, I was the most surprised every time I hit a skeet. I jumped with joy and sometimes forgot that there was a second skeet that I was supposed to shoot! If you haven’t tried skeet shooting, I guarantee it’s a blast (no pun intended).

I’ve never understood until now why men love to hunt. In the stillness of the woods, you become plugged into nature. You have to be patient and still. Finally, there’s the excitement of hearing the turkey approaching, crunching step by step and you can hardly breath, afraid that he will hear you. Whether you actually shoot one doesn’t matter. Now my man would probably beg to differ. He wanted to shoot a turkey and that he did with one shot. Bam!

I had lunch with a good friend this week and she asked me if we got a turkey. Her jaw dropped when I showed her the photos on my cell! “No way!”, but I could tell she was impressed and I was proud of myself. I can check Big Game Hunting off my list. Now I’m thinking lions, tigers and bears, oh my! Celebrate life and all it has to offer. Here are a few things I am celebrating:> I’m thankful for the fact that I can talk to my Mama every day and celebrate

Mother’s Day with her. She actually played the lead part in a Cedartown produc-tion of Annie Get Your Gun and she was on the rifle team at North Georgia College. Now that’s cool!

> I’m focusing on the bright, blue sky, blooming plants, and indulging in the warmth from the sunshine that’s so appreciated from post-traumatic winter syndrome. Don’t we all celebrate this new season?

> It’s the fourth year since the launch of NW Georgia Living and it continues to be my inspiration and keeps me growing. With every issue, we want to inform, enrich and inspire you to do, go, be something that you never imagined…and be proud of it!

Publisher and Founder Editor-In-Chief

Laura Wood

Creative DirectorAndi Counts

DesignersAndi Counts

Cameron Shiflett

PhotographyPatricia Montgomery

Senior Editor, Calendar for Living

Ciara N. [email protected]

EditorGene Murphy

[email protected]

Sales StaffSusan CashLaura Wood

DistributionWinston Wood

Contributing WritersJennifer Almand

Jennifer Bailey BaxterKat Carter

Kelly CharlesAletia DupreeJ. D. Erickson

Susan HackneySherry Jens

Ciara N. MealerRobert Smyth Cristen StoryGreg Teague

BillingLaura Wood706-346-9858

Contact us at:(706) 346-9858

[email protected] Georgia Living

P.O. Box 1065Rome, Georgia 30l62

NW Georgia Living is published bi-monthly by L. Wood LLC

© 2014. No portion of this issue may be copied, scanned, or reproduced in any manner without

prior written consent from the publisher.

Letter From the Editor

Celebration 2014 Volume 5 Issue 3

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Health

As a yoga teacher, I hear interesting comments and questions about yoga. Am I too old/young? Is it okay

if I can’t touch my toes? Do I have to burn incense and dress like a hippie? But beneath those initial, sometimes seemingly superficial, questions is one underlying serious one: “Can I do this?” Yes, you can.

You can do yoga.“I’m too old.” Yoga is for all ages. My students range from teens to grand-parents. Our society tells us we are supposed to get feeble and fragile as we age, but we don’t have to accept that as truth. The older we get, the more important it is to keep working muscles and building bone mass. If you don’t use it, you lose it.“I want to do yoga, but am out of shape.” No better reason to start. I was 75 pounds heavier, numbing out on late night junk food and TV when I started 12 years ago. Yoga is not about how far you can bend or even which poses you can do. Yoga is about starting from where you are and improving your own strength, stamina, and balance. Yoga is about self-improvement — the

Finding Your Zen

union of mind, body, and spirit. Yoga encompasses much more than poses — it involves mindful awareness of the breath and body. Yoga helps us to focus on the present moment, to “be here now.”

You should try yoga.“Why should I do yoga?” Yoga has far-reaching benefits. Physically, yoga improves flexibility, agility, balance, strength, and endurance. Mentally it brings a state of clarity in a world of chaos. Spiritually it gives one a sense of peace.“I really need to do yoga or something; I’m so stressed.” Yes, you do. Stress is the silent killer. Long-term stress has catastrophic effects on our bodies. We are not meant to be in constant states of agitation and fear, and when we are, our bodies rebel. Blood pressure rises, heart rate increases, adrenaline and cortisol levels rise. We are instant warriors ready for battle or a quick get-away, the well-known “fight or flight” response. This biochemical cocktail draws emer-gency energy but depletes our reserves. Helpful if outrunning a tiger or wrestling a grizzly, yes, but we inadvertently evoke it trying to reach the bank before four or edging out another driver for that miraculously perfect parking spot.

Sherri Jens, RYT

“I don’t create stress — it finds me.” We create stressors, defending ourselves against imagined threats through the stories we tell ourselves. These stories permeate our lives. At work: “If I’m late again, the boss will kill me.” At home: “If I don’t clean the house before my mother-in-law visits, I’ll never hear the end of it.” It’s unlikely your boss will be waiting for you at the time clock with an Uzi, or that you will hear your mother-in-law’s voice shouting “Slob!” for infinity,


Sherri Jens, RYT, M.S.Ed., is a practicing registered yoga teacher, freelance writer, and part-time Assistant Professor of English at Kennesaw State University. She has an M.S. Ed. in English Language Arts and a B.S. in psychology. She currently teaches yoga at the Healing Arts Center of Rome, Berry College, Rome Health Spa,

and the YMCA. She is a board member of Yoga 4 Rome, a non-profit organization created to make yoga accessible to all.

but imagined threats affect our minds and bodies just the same. Our thoughts become our words; those words become our reality. Our brains simply don’t know the difference between our false thoughts and words and the truth. We go into “stress” mode regardless.“What is the mind/body connection?” Many of our body’s reactions to stimuli are controlled by the mind. The mind is always regulating breath, heart rate, blood pressure, deciding how fast the heart should beat, how much blood to pump, how much oxygen is required to run the 5K or dig for the remote in the couch cushions.“How powerful is the mind/body connection?” Visualization is extremely powerful and has significant effects on our bodies. Studies show athletes that visualize performing their sports engage the very same muscles they use in actually doing it — the same muscles, firing in the same sequences, activated in the same way. What does this mean? If we’re foreseeing the worst possible outcomes in all scenarios, we’re visualizing, effectively telling our bodies to be

“stressed.” Fear manifests in the body, lowering our immune systems, making us more susceptible to disease.

You can find your Zen.“What can I do?” More than you think. Ditch the excuses and negative preconceived notions, attend a yoga class, and find out for yourself. Discover what you can do rather than focus on what holds you back. Most of us can’t move to caves, eat rice cakes, and chant all day; we have real-world obligations. But here is how we can become aware.> Bring awareness to the breath. Breathe in and out slowly

and fully. Make exhalations longer than inhalations to lower heart rate and blood pressure.

> Bring awareness to threatening thoughts, see them as false, and let them go. Replace them with gentler ones.

> Visualize yourself as calm, complete, healthy — living in abundance — your human birthright.

> Realize you’re meant to be happy and loving, calm and peaceful. Recognize joy as your natural state.

You can find your Zen right here, right now.Namasté. (The divine in me honors the divine in you.)

WATCHES, CLOCKS, JEWELRY, GIFTWARE, REPAIRS

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Arts & Events

C A L E N DA R FO R

MayAdult Spell-OffMay 2, 7:00 p.m.Presented by Harbin Clinic, Harbor House’s Annual Spelling Bee fundraiser is a fun, family-oriented event that anyone can enjoy. The Historic DeSoto Theatre. Rome. www.desototheatre.com

CRBI’s Water Fest XIVMay. 2, 9:00 a.m.– May. 3, 6:00 p.m.The two day extravaganza will feature water sports, canoeing and kayaking, scavenger hunts, animal exhibits, and more. Ridge Ferry Park in Rome. www.coosa.org/events/waterfest

May MarketMay 3, 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.The festival will feature handmade arts and crafts, food, garden products and plants, and more. The event will also highlight 200+ varieties of roses in full bloom. Rose Lawn Museum. Cartersville. www.roselawnmuseum.com

The Cave Spring Bacon FestMay. 3, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.Come celebrate your love of all things bacon with a parade, Miss Bacon Fest pageant, shopping, live entertainment, and of course a cook-off full of the stuff. Rolater Park in Cave Spring. www.cavespringga.com

All Roads FestMay. 3, 11:30 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.Hosted by Rome Area Council for the Arts this all day music festival will have performances by local favorites Atomic Boogie, Jerry on The Moon, Muletide Perkins Trio, and many more. Heritage Park in Rome. www.romearts.org/allroads

Rome In Bloom Garden TourMay 3, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.The Junior Service League of Rome will be hosting a tour of the beautiful gardens of Historic Downtown Rome. 300 Broad Street. Rome. www.jslofrome.com

Wait Until DarkMay 2 – May 3, 8:00 p.m.May 4, 3:00 p.m.May 9 – May 10, 8:00 p.m.This play is presented by The Pumphouse Players, directed by Kim Garrett. The story is one of double-crosses, intrigue, murder, and the will to survive. The Historic Legion Theatre. Cartersville. www.pumphouseplayers.com

Spring RambleMay 16 – May 18, 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.Explore historic Cartersville at this annual event hosted by The Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation. Downtown Cartersville. www.georgiatrust.org

Art WalkMay 17, All DayLocal artisans, craftsmen, potters, painters, and photographers from all over Northwest Georgia will be filling the streets, selling their wares, and giving live demonstrations at this annual event hosted by the Rome Area Council for the Arts and sponsored by local business owners. Broad Street. Rome. www.romearts.org

Smoke on the Lake BBQ FestivalMay 9 – May 10This annual event benefits several local charities and will include food and live music. Cauble Park. Acworth. www.smokeonthelake.org

Etowah Valley Artifacts ShowMay 17 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.The Peach State Archaeological Society will have thousands of artifacts and items of archaeological interest on display. Clarence Brown Conference Center. Cartersville. www.peachstatearchaeologicalsociety.org

Duck DerbyMay 17, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.With great prizes, shopping, entertainment, food, and the release

of thousands of rubber ducks into the Etowah River, you don’t want to miss this event. Adopt a duck to support children in need in our community. Proceeds benefit Advocates for Children. Riverside Park. Cartersville. www.advochild.org

Footprints on the Heart 5KMay 31, 8:00 a.m.This annual 5k will also include a one mile walk, BBQ, and memorial balloon release to honor those in our community affected by pregnancy and infant loss. Frank Harris Park. Euharlee.

Finster FestMay 31, 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.June 1, 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.Celebrate the life and artistic legacy of Howard Finster, local legend well-known folk artist, with food, art, live music, and tours of Paradise Gardens. Dowdy Park. Summerville. www.finsterfest.com

JuneThe Dixie Swim ClubMay 30 – May 31, 8:00 p.m.June 1, 2:30 p.m.June 6 – June 7, 8:00 p.m.June 8, 2:30 p.m.Presented by Rome Little Theatre, directed by Virginia McChesney and produced by Neal Brackett, this is the story of five Southern women and their friendship that spans a lifetime. The Historic DeSoto Theatre. Rome. www.romelittletheatre.com

Dixie Highway Yard SaleJune 6 – June 8, 7:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.Embrace your inner American Picker at this annual 90 mile long yard sale, one of the longest in the country. Hwy 41. Ringold to Marietta. www.olddixiehighwayyardsale.com

Covered Bridge ’QueJune 7, 10:00 a.m.Come out and enjoy great food, entertainment, auto shows, arts and crafts, and see some of your favorite celebrity chefs at this annual State Championship BBQ Competition. Euharlee. www.euharlee.com/events

Cave Spring Arts FestivalJun. 14, 11:00 a.m.Experience art, culture, shopping, great


food, and live entertainment while doing your part to support local artists and entertainers. Rolater Park. Cave Spring. www.cavespringhistoricalsociety.com

Summer Solstice HikeJune 21, 7:45 p.m. Hikers and amateur astronomers are invited to join the Cartersville Parks & Recreation Department as they host this guided hike on Cartersville’s Pine Mountain Trail to celebrate the first day of summer. Pine Mountain Recreation Area. Cartersville. www.visitcartersvillega.org

The Breakfast Club in ConcertJune 21, 7:30 p.m.Relive the 80s with America’s ultimate tribute band. Tease your hair, dig out those acid-wash jeans, and get ready for a rockin’ good time! GEM Theatre. Calhoun. www.calhoungem.org

OngoingFirst Friday Concert SeriesFirst Friday of each month through September, 7:00 p.m.Enjoy a variety of great live music by local artists, food, and fun for the whole family. Broad Street. Downtown Rome. Contact [email protected] for details.

Georgia Fire Indoor FootballThrough June 27Come out and support Rome’s finest Indoor Football team, while enjoying fast-paced, high-quality live action. The Forum Civic Center. Rome. www.georgiafire.us

Rome RollergirlsThrough November 8Rome, Ga’s very own derby team is now in their fourth season. Derby is an action packed, fast-paced sport and is a 100% volunteer, not for profit sport that promotes feminism and positive body image for women. Home games at Fun Wheels. Rome. www.romerollergirls.com

Art and The AnimalThrough September 7Featuring creatures from around the world, by today’s best animal painters and sculptors. Special Exhibition Gallery of Booth Western Art Museum. Cartersville. www.boothmuseum.org

Farmer’s MarketsRiverside Farmer’s MarketJune 1 – September 14, Saturdays, 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.One of the largest markets in the area, you’ll find a lot of diversity, rare ingredients, entertainment, and fun at this weekly event that draws thousands of patrons each season. Sponsored by The City of Roswell and The Fulton County UGA Cooperative Extension.City Hall. Roswell

Ridge Ferry Park Farmer’s MarketMay 31 – October 4, Wednesdays and Saturdays, 7:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.The selection varies daily at this market, including things like jellies, herbs, hand-crafted items, and organic produce. Ridge Ferry Park Pavillion. Rome

Cartersville Farmer’s MarketJune 4 – September 27, Wednesdays, 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., Saturdays 7:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.With fresh flowers, local honey, and homemade goods this market offers wider variety of goods than the fruits and veggies you’d expect. Founder’s Oak Parking Lot. Cartersville

Historic Downtown Acworth Farmer’s MarketMay 23 – October 31, Fridays 7:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.Enjoy a wide variety of locally grown fruits and vegetables, plants, baked goods, and more. Sponsored by Acworth Downtown Development Authority. Main Street. Historic Downtown Acworth.


315 Riverside Pkwy, Rome GA 30l61706-235-0711

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FREE ASSESSMENT Stop in today for a FREE Sylvan Assessment (a $95 value)

Offer expires 06/30/2014. Valid at participating centers only. May not be combined with other offers.

Sylvan of Rome2809 Martha Berry Hwy. NW, Rome, GA 30165

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Cookbooks for the Starry-Eyed Chef> Savannah Style by

The Junior League of Savannah

> A New Turn in The South: Southern Flavors Reinvented for Your Kitchen by Hugh Acheson

> Basic to Brilliant, Y’all: 150 Refined Southern Recipes and Ways to Dress Them Up for Company by Virginia Willis

> The Complete Magnolia Bakery Cookbook by Jennifer Appel

> The Working Class Foodies Cookbook by Rebecca Lando

> Deliciously Southern by Aletia Dupree

Southern Belles & Gentlemen, Guests & Entertainers> Ham Biscuits, Hostess Gowns, and

Other Southern Specialties: An Entertaining Life by Julia Reed

> The Etiquette Book by Jodi R. R. Smith

> When Did White Trash Become The New Normal? By Charlotte Hays

> What’s a Hostess to Do? By Susan Spungen

> Handmade Hostess by Kelly Lee-Creel and Rebecca Soder

Enchanted Literature> While Beauty

Slept by Elizabeth Blackwell

> Boy, Snow, Bird by Helen Oyeyemi

> The Wishing Thread by Lisa Van Allen

> The Wedding Bees by Sarah-Kate Lynch

> Archetype by M.D. Waters

Southern Ladies> Lost Lake by Sarah

Addison Allen> Lydia’s Party by

Margaret Hawkins> I Shall Be Near To You by Erin Lindsay

McCabe> A Star For Mrs. Blake by April Smith> The All-Girl Filling Station’s Last

Reunion by Fannie Flagg

By Ciara N. Mealer

DOG EARED

Ciara N. Mealer is the Senior Editor at NW Georgia Living Magazine, a freelance writer and editor, and a bookseller. She lives in Rome, Ga with her

devoted sidekick and her four Fantastic Fancy Rats. She is an avid naturalist, a voracious reader, and spends most of her free time exploring the outdoors, adventuring, and creating. She can be contacted at [email protected]

Dog-Eared’s Top Picks

Around here, we have a lot of things to be thankful for and to celebrate. We live in a beautiful area, with

wonderful weather and fairly few natural disasters, little crime, and pretty good

schools. While giving thanks for most of these things, there is one thing we should all be celebrating that many of us take for granted. Of course, you know me well enough by now to know what I’m going to say. Reading.

While it’s easy to overlook when we have more important things to think about, we should never forget what a great privilege it is that we live in a time and a place where stories, knowledge, and different ideas are teeming all around us, filling the shelves of our local libraries and bookstores, waiting to lend us their knowledge; we should never forget that with a book, we are never without a friend, we will never be bored, and we can see and experience things in this life we might never get the chance to explore otherwise; and never forget that there are places still in this world where this privilege, this right, is at best a luxury, at worst a dream. So go out, show your thanks, and celebrate with a great book, one that will take you farther than you ever dreamed.

With my top five books for each category you’ll find yourself taken to mysterious lakeshores, exclusive parties, long ago battlefields, far-away fairytale lands, scarred farmhouse tables, uptown bakeries, and many more places yet. So what are you waiting for? Pick one and prepare to be taken away!

Read Away the Day


400 S Pheasant Run, Rome, GAWith over 4,000 square feet, this is a wonderful home for entertaining and family enjoyment. A unique aspect is it has in-law suite with a separate entrance. It is a completely remodeled 5BR, 4.5BA with master suite on main level, new kitchen with granite countertops and hardwood floors. Large fenced in back yard. It is immaculate and move in ready!

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You choose your...

Your healthcare Your Choice!

Doctor Pharmacy Why not Physical theraPist?

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where to get your prescriptions filled, Physical Therapy is your decision. Advance Rehab is steadfast in providing outstanding

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ROME: Tel 706-235-2727 - www.advancerehab.com

You choose your...

Your healthcare Your Choice!

Doctor Pharmacy Why not Physical theraPist?

When it comes to health care decisions, you make the call on your care. Just like selecting who you want as your physician or

where to get your prescriptions filled, Physical Therapy is your decision. Advance Rehab is steadfast in providing outstanding

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By Susan Hackney

YOU DON’T SAY?

Easter, the most glorious event on the Christian calendar, was celebrated in late April this year, and I still have enough

Easter candy to carry me over until the Halloween sugar season gets here. We will soon celebrate Mother’s Day and Memorial Day — special recognitions and remembrances of those who mean so much to us. We will also celebrate the end of another school year (and the teachers said AMEN). Our school chil-dren will be “out” for the summer, and many of us will be irritated by whiney children and grandchildren saying, “I’m bored — there’s nothing to do.” Seriously? My response will be, “We ain’t got no room for boring!” I will be celebrating my favorite season, and my philosophy is to start my summer early and make it last as long as possible.

“We ain’t got no room for boring!” I didn’t say this, but those clever Muppets did, inspired no doubt by Toyota’s equally clever marketing people. As soon as I first saw and heard this ad, which was featured during this year’s Super Bowl broadcast, I knew it would become a part of my lingo, much as other Muppetisms have. And I totally subscribe to this idea that we just “ain’t got no room for boring,” now or ever. There’s too much to do and to celebrate!

I have always enjoyed the Muppet’s clever humor dating back to the early days of Sesame Street with my own children, and more recently when Elmo enthralled the first grand children. Jim Henson’s unique talent and philosophy created for us some enduring characters and sentiments to inspire our thinking about possible summer activities:

Kermit the Frog:“ Just because you haven’t found your talent yet, doesn’t mean you don’t have one.”

“ It’s not easy being green.”

Gonzo: “ There’s not a word yet for old friends who’ve just met.”

Miss Piggy:“ Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and it may be necessary, from time to time, to give a stupid or misinformed beholder a black eye.”

“ Never eat more than you can lift.”“ The early bird gets the worm, which is what he deserves.”

“ You have to be going to a pretty awful place if getting there is half the fun.”

Jim Henson: “ No time is wasted time.”

Feel free to email me if you have trouble translating these thoughts into summer activities! It doesn’t take too much to entertain me, so here is my outline of activities for summer, 2014:

> Pursuing Virginia Brewer’s idea of incorporating herbs, fruits, and vegetables into existing shrub and flower beds.

> Trying out scrumptious recipes from Aletia DuPree’s pages.

> Using my new gym membership — maybe joining a Zumba or yoga class.

> Planning some day trips or weekends based on ideas gleaned from Northwest Georgia Living Magazine

> Making the rounds of all of the dives which were featured in previous editions of the magazine thanks to Kelly Charles.

> Catching up on my reading list compiled from Ciara Mealer’s articles in “Dog-Eared”.

> Swimming and water aerobics every day.

Recently there was a group of photos in my email illustrating a whole bunch of activities which I definitely will not be involved with this summer or ever. That list includes:> Sitting on the Trolltunga Rock in

Norway.> Ice climbing a frozen waterfall.> Tree camping in Germany. > Extreme kayaking at Victoria Falls. > Glacier boarding, anywhere. Why do people send me this stuff? Still, between these and the National Geographic Adventures Catalogs, I am aware of places to add to the Bucket List for visiting.

As for celebrations this time of year, “We ain’t got no time for boring” — a philosophy which I believe Jim Henson would embrace if he was still here among us today.

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Featured Restaurants

Grand OaksEvery first and third Tuesday

from 11:30 – 2:00 Grand Oaks, built in the Neoclassical Revival Style, serves a lunch buffet and invites diners to tour the beautiful old home. The food is warm, comforting, homey, and delicious without being preten-tious. It’s southern food at its finest. My personal favorite dishes are the creamy carrot soup, squash casserole, and lemon chiffon cake. Grand Oaks will also be serving lunch on both Mother’s and Father’s Day from 12:00 – 2:00 as well as playing host to special events year round. This magnificent home is decorated and furnished eclectically, with a collection of stunning artwork and finely wrought antiques. Ray Thacker, the owner, proudly guides tours and is a captivating storyteller as he relates both the history of the home and of the Bartow area, and every room has a story. Stop by for lunch, make reserva-tions for Mother’s Day, and see this grand old house for yourself. Feast on Southern favorites, meet remark-able people, and be entertained by the lively and eccentric Mr. Thacker. You’ll be glad you did.

If there is one thing we Southerners know how to do right, it’s eat. Fortunately, good food can always be found just around the corner at

many great locally owned restaurants in NW Georgia. We love telling you about the best of the best, and this issue’s selection is no exception. As always, our recommendations feature small business owners who pride themselves in quality

Divine Local Dining

and service and simply offer a great dining experience every time. Here are a few more must-trys:

Thurston’s CaféMy friends and I love this cozy sidewalk café that’s nestled in downtown Calhoun on Court Street. It is the perfect spot for a casual lunch, where you’ll find homemade soups, salads, gourmet sandwiches, baked goods, coffee, and more. The paninis are a big hit, made fresh with unique combinations that will please any palate. Dante’s Santa Fe Turkey Panini is a personal favorite. The House Salad features surprising but somehow perfect ingredients (like pecans and strawberries), and the house special Hot Bacon Honey Mustard dressing is just the right complement. Daily homemade soups such as Roasted Corn Shrimp Bisque and Creamy Tomato with Smoked Gouda are robust and full of flavor. Pick two of your favorites as a combo for a lighter lunch. Or, stop in as early as 7am on weekdays for breakfast sandwiches, pastries, and the best latte in town. Orders are taken at the counter, and the friendly staff will quickly remember you if you visit often.

By Kelly Charles

Moore’s Gourmet Market in Cartersville is the perfect place to meet your friends for lunch or dinner. It’s a guaranteed winner with all!

Thurston’s Café in downtown Calhoun is a cozy, casual restaurant with surprisingly great food.

By Ciara N. Mealer


The Claremont HouseUpon arriving at Claremont House for breakfast and a tour, I was greeted warmly by my host. Breakfast was a simple, yet with an outstanding spread of coffee, fresh raspberry pastries, spinach omelets, bacon, and fresh fruits. Everything was delicious. The experience of being there is breathtaking and magical. Stepping inside was like being transported back through time. With each door you pass

you expect to see gentlemen in coattails smoking pipes and taking the paper, or

Moore’s Gourmet MarketA nice relief from Cartersville’s fast food strip, Moore’s is tucked away in a neighborhood on Fite Street just west of downtown. A full bar and a diverse menu make this a great place for lunch or dinner with friends or family. Owner Courtney uses fresh local ingredients when available, and Spencer’s daily specials are always a treat. A popular menu item and my personal favorite is the fried catfish, although you can’t go wrong with one of their juicy and perfectly cooked burgers. The eclectic atmosphere has an urban feel, which is a nice change for a small North GA town. A street side patio offers pet-friendly seating. Parking is tight during peak times, but Moore’s is open from 11 a.m. seven days a week so stop in any time.

These local restaurants reflect the passion and soul of their owners and are a sheer pleasure to experience time and time again. Next time you’re out for a meal, take a turn from the corporate chains and enjoy some of Northwest Georgia’s finest food and atmosphere in a locally owned eatery. You’ll be in for a treat!Henry’s Louisiana GrillMy husband and I recently discovered this gem in downtown Acworth. What a nice surprise, I only wish we’d found it sooner! Henry’s is a down-home restaurant and bar with Cajun cuisine and nightly specials that are to die for. The food is insanely delicious, and the bartender knows how to pour a drink. The Jumbo Sea Scallops and the Henry’s Hush Puppies appetizers are incred-ible, as are the Louisiana Ooh La La entrée and the Banana Crème Brûlée for dessert. Or if you love crawfish, join the crowd every Wednesday evening for a Crawfish Boil. Owner Chef Henry is the charismatic life of the place and very likely to stop by your table once or twice with beads for the ladies. The upstairs is being remodeled for additional dining space but for now you will need to make weekend reservations at least a week in advance because this place is always hopping. Walk-ins are welcome, and you can enjoy the atmosphere and a drink while you wait. Henry’s is open every day but Sunday.

It’s Mardi Gras every day at Henry’s Louisiana Grill in Historic Downtown Acworth.

women in lace collars and bustles having tea. It’s easy to see why so many people, both locals and visitors, choose to stay here time and again at this charming Bed and Breakfast. If you are looking for a quick weekend getaway close to home, or the perfect venue to host your next event, look no further. If you would like a chance to check out the house and indulge in a fantastic meal, Claremont House also hosts special events such as their annual Valentine’s Day Dinner and Easter Brunch.

By Ciara N. Mealer

Photos by Patricia Montgomery


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Maggie Mae’s Tea RoomYou won’t find a sign for Maggie Mae’s. In fact, you might drive right past and never know it’s there. The 1902 Stock Exchange on the town square in

Adairsville is a little antique store in a renovated historic building owned by Rita Pritchard. The building itself has quite a story, but foodies like us will probably be most interested in Maggie

Mae’s tea room which is located inside. A delicious lighter fare lunch is served Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m., or enjoy full afternoon tea with a reserva-tion. The quiche is a favorite, as is the blackened salmon, and be sure to leave room for their famous Hummingbird Cake. On certain holidays and special occasions, Maggie Mae’s offers a dinner theatre. Early reservations are a must for this treat! While you’re there take time to hear the remarkable history of this building and its renovation, and browse around the store after your meal.

For a special lunch, NWGL recommends Maggie Mae’s Tea Room in Historic Downtown Adairsville.

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Every year we wait in dread of this day. You all know what day it is. You can’t get a table or decent service at a restaurant to save your life. There isn’t a single fresh flower to be found for miles. If you are looking

for a chocolate fix, good luck, because you’ll be waiting for a week at least. Stores are filled with anxious shoppers, caught unaware and unprepared for this most impor-tant occasion of the year. That’s right, it’s Mother’s Day. Don’t worry, we’re here to help keep you out of the dog house and keep your inheritance fully intact. So take a deep breath, wipe those sweating palms off, and read what advice our contributors have to offer.

SO, THE QUESTION IS ...> What is the absolute worst thing you can give a

woman for Mother’s Day?

SOCIAL SAVVY

Do you often find yourself at a loss for words? Are you ever put into a socially awkward situation? Need to borrow a little savvy from time to time? We’re here to help. Send your socially awkward moments and questions on how to stay savvy to [email protected] for a chance to have your most awkward questions spotlighted in an upcoming issue.

> L. Wood: The first thing that comes to mind is something that would insult her like a membership to Weight Watchers, especially when you’re treating her to her favorite Mother’s Day buffet! The second thing is a gift that is practical and also insulting. My dad once gave my mom a rice cooker, because he didn’t like the way she cooked rice. He ended up wearing it!

> Ciara N. Mealer: By order of the Queen, let it hereby be known that anyone who so chooses to give my mother cookware, cleaning supplies, gift cards, or cheap jewelry shall be henceforth skinned alive, boiled in oil, disemboweled, and fed to pigeons.

> Gene Murphy: Actually, NOTHING! My second husband, my two children, and I were camping in Florida on Mother’s Day. We had a beautiful day and had taken a nice stroll on the beach. Later it struck me that not one of them had even mentioned this important day. I had a snit fit, better known as a tantrum. We packed it all up and drove home in virtual silence. My children have never forgotten Mother’s Day since.

> Jennifer Baxter: Worst: Cleaning apparatus (vacuum cleaner, dust buster, floor waxer, carpet shampooer, ceiling fan cleaner, etc.), Exercise equipment. Best: Spa day, Massage, Gift card to favorite store in an amount that will actually cover a reasonable purchase, A “girls” trip, Jewelry (but not sterling silver!), I could go on and on!

> Jennifer Almand: The absolute worst thing you can give someone for Mother’s Day? Give her nothing at all. This is a

woman who has sacri-ficed her time, sanity, and figure so that you can be present in this life. She has shed tears

for you when you’ve fallen, cheered you on as

you succeeded, and has loved you uncondition-ally for your entire life. So, with that being

said, you can pick up a rock out of the yard, paint

a heart on it and give it to her for Mother’s Day, and she will cherish that rock for the rest of her life. She will show that rock off to all her friends, and brag about how thoughtful and meaningful it is to her. She will probably even post a picture of it on Facebook. Just don’t give her nothing.

> Robert Smyth: A few things NOT to consider for Mothers Day: a vacuum cleaner, health spa membership, yet another framed picture of your family including pets, hug coupons, a ceramic anything unless you’re under 12, a potted plant in festive foil paper from the Wal-Mart . . . You get the idea. A few things you might consider are: a gift card to her favorite restaurant for dinner without you and the horde you bring with you in the minivan, lawn service for a year, a spa visit, a margarita machine, etc. Just be creative and not “Hallmarky” (I think I made up a new word). Of course your mom will always say she loves anything you get her, right before she re-gifts those ceramic praying hands at the next white elephant party.

> Susan Cash: Worst things to give/receive for Mother’s Day: Cooking lessons, A therapy session, A subpoena, Nothing, Announcement that you and your family need to move in, Asking to borrow money, Forgetting holiday altogether.

> The Wine Snob, Barnsley Resort: Two things come to mind, each equal to the other in their absolute terribleness. A bottle of Barnaut Grand Cru Brut, Champagne — a very dry, yeasty Champagne — makes a bad gift when Mother has enjoyed her Moscato for 25 years. One of those housecoat and slipper combinations, both decorated in something like pompoms.


“I felt so good when I got out of the hospital. I felt wonderful and I couldn’t wait to go to rehab. The staff there was incredible.”

Elsie had already had one heart attack, so she knew the symptoms and knew she needed to get to Redmond immediately. At Redmond’s ER, she got the fast treatment she needed. The physician confirmed that she had experienced a second heart attack and needed a stent. The experienced heart team at Redmond treated more than 5,000 patients last year, providing a full range of services. Redmond is an accredited Chest Pain Center and the only hospital in Northwest Georgia providing open heart surgery. Comprehensive services even include Cardiac Rehab to get you back on your feet.

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Barnsley Resort: Rich in History and Adventure

Staycations

By J. D. Erickson

In the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Adairsville, GA, Barnsley Resort offers a unique getaway experience. Encompassing 3,300 acres, it was originally built as an opulent estate by cotton merchant Godfrey

Barnsley in the 1840s. It opened 150 years later as Barnsley Inn and Golf Resort.

My last visit to Barnsley Resort was in 1997. At the time, the ruins of the magnificent estate remained, as well as its gardens, along with the Rice House restaurant, and a gift shop. Fast forward 17 years and to say that I was shocked at the trans-formation is an understatement. Since then, many buildings and amenities have been added. Barnsley Resort literally has everything you can think of in a resort.

Amenities include gourmet dining, meeting facilities, immaculate gardens, historic ruins, a European style spa, and exciting recreational choices such as world-class golf, wing-shooting, and hunting at Spring Bank Plantation-Georgia’s most unique hunting preserve.

A Historical Treasure Local historian Clent Coker, author of Barnsley Gardens at Woodlands: The Illustrious Dream, led us on a thorough

and informative historical tour of Barnsley Resort. Coker’s family was close with the Barnsley family and he played in the gardens there as a young child, as did his ancestors, which gives him an intimate perspective.

Barnsley Gardens, or Woodlands as it was originally known, was designed and built in the 1840s by British citizen Godfrey Barnsley. Arriving in Savannah from England in 1824, Mr. Barnsley eventually made his fortune in cotton and went on to marry local socialite Julia Scarborough. The Barnsleys had eight children and permanently moved from Savannah to Woodlands in 1842 due to Julia’s health.

We also learned that the basement of the detached kitchen housed the brandy cellar. Mr. Barnsley stocked all his locally grown wine here and it was not spared from invading Union Troops in 1864. More than 90,000 soldiers passed through Barnsley and were ordered by General J.B. McPherson to spare Barnsley from destruction. However, this didn’t stop a few rogue soldiers from looting valuables as well as wine. The cellar also contains a small collection of Civil War weapons, uniforms, etc. and is a treat to see firsthand. Coker also commented that Mr. Barnsley was approached by the

Above: Barnsley Resort’s Boxwood Parterre, which is more than 170 years old, takes inspiration from the style of Andrew Jackson Downing.


Confederacy to sell them his brandy, largely to be used as anesthesia during the War as traditional medicine ran low.

After Mr. Barnsley passed away in 1873 the property went through ownership changes and suffered neglect over time. Finally in the late 1980s it was sold to Prince Hubertus Fugger of Germany, and he and Coker set about preserving what was left of the property. Since then an 18 hole Fazio designed golf course has been added, a spa and fitness center, numerous restaurants, a conference center, church, amphitheater, a sporting club, stables, barns, as well as dozens of cottages. It took someone with capital like Prince Fugger to bring Barnsley back from the dead, but most importantly it took vision, determination and a true love for Barnsley Resort that Clent Coker possesses.

The layout of these new facilities as well as the cottages are blended in well together and are separated by scenic grassy courtyards, walkways, gardens, and a variety of landscaping that makes it very easy to walk everywhere you need to go. The cottages, as well as the new facilities, are all relatively new but the design is based on the architecture of Andrew Jackson Downing, considered America’s first great landscape architect. Downing was responsible for designing not only the grounds of the White House, but also the Smithsonian in Washington, DC. Barnsley was heavily influenced by the works of Downing, and it is reflected in the beautiful grounds, gardens, and architecture. Each cottage at Barnsley Resort has a unique

architectural look to it, all the while being immaculately decorated with modern conveniences.

After a two hour whirlwind tour it was on to the Woodlands Grill, where the lunch was top notch. Barnsley Resort even has two unique craft beers specially brewed by a local brewer, and I would recommend trying a pint or two.

Horseback RidingAs beautiful as Barnsley Resort is on foot, it’s even prettier on the back of a one ton horse. I was fortunate enough to be put on a mare named Star. Our guide, Sheri Henderson, was a wonderful host and took us all around the area as we crossed fields, streams, and hidden trails in the foothills of Barnsley Resort. Star was gentle until she started to get behind the pack and had to pick up the pace. It was after about the fifth time playing catch up to fellow horse Leroy that I wished I had packed a jock strap and cup . . . cough, cough. I did have a minor scare when Star and I crossed a wooden bridge over a gently flowing creek and she tripped, going down to her knees and taking me with her. I could picture going head over horse and wearing Star as an unplanned blanket . . . Q: How did Mr. Erickson get hurt? A: A large horse landed on him. Thankfully she recovered and I said a prayer of thanks to her and the Lord above. The weather was perfect which made this one of the most memorable rides I have ever taken.

The culinary team at Barnsley Resort created a number of mouth-watering dishes using the season’s freshest ingredients.

Guests can enjoy trail rides that meander through forests and the resort grounds. A picnic can be arranged to be enjoyed right after your ride.

Photos courtesy of Barnsley Resort


J. Erickson owns Erickson Development, a real estate development company. In addition to being a developer, he is also a contractor, real estate investor and

adventure seeker. A former jock he now enjoys watching sports more than participating. Jerry lives in Marietta with his two sons, JT and Jack, who are active in baseball and school.

from me. Since a shotgun does produce a kick, the area of my arm where the butt of the gun rested was a little sore, kind of like getting punched by your brother 100 times in a row. As the day progressed Carl refined my shooting skill and made me a much better marksman in just a few hours, which helped me the following morning

It’s 6am and I have wild turkey on my mind . . . The bird, not the bourbon. Wild turkeys have excellent vision during the day and I’ve heard the saying that if turkeys could read a newspaper (or NW Georgia Living) then they would be able to do so from 100 yards away. So dressing head to toe in camo was a necessity. Turkeys, much like myself, are active in the morning and are literally early birds.

Lyle McClure, plantation manager at Barnsley Resort, is also an experienced guide and was tasked with putting me in front of as many turkeys as possible. Leaving before sunrise, we set out to find a big Tom, or gobblers as the males are known. Surprisingly, our hunting spot was less than a half mile from Barnsley. Our goal was to attract gobblers by using hen calls and a decoy to draw them in. McClure knows how to call them in and has some great spots for drawing them out. Within minutes of quietly marching into the woods the gobblers were on all sides of us as we literally heard “gobble, gobble, gobble” every couple of minutes. We

also heard the hens who were a short distance away too. And since its mating season, the hens are looking for a Tom. (Ironically, so were we but for a different reason.) After an hour of sitting as still as I could, the Toms weren’t quite in range. So we migrated a little north, up the gentle slope of the foothills where we were again “ear deep” in gobblers and hens. But this time was different. We could feel them getting very close, we heard their footsteps crunching on the ground cover, and one bird even flew overhead. McClure spotted a Tom strutting about 35–40 yards away and I gently raised my barrel. He whispered for me to take a shot if I had one and I did. Long story short is that I ate fresh wild turkey nuggets that evening, and it was wonderful, but not as incredible as my first time turkey hunting. McClure is first rate and knows what he is doing. He is one of many talented individuals Barnsley Resort has working for them.

The overall Barnsley Resort experi-ence was outstanding, with the ameni-ties, the scenery, but most importantly the people who worked there. I’ve never met more friendly folks in my life, and many did not even know that I was writing about their magnificent estab-lishment. The genuineness of the staff is real and the service was beyond what I had imagined.

Skeet shooting is truly an Olympic sportFor those of you who wondered how difficult skeet shooting is, I can attest that it is not easy for beginners, which I was. Skeet shooting is an activity where participants, using shotguns, attempt to break clay disks flung into the air from fixed stations at high speed from a variety of angles. Barnsley Resort’s sporting range is comprised of different stations, each one a little more difficult as you progress. Our guide, Carl Kunkle, was very knowledgeable and covered the basics of shooting, the most important being gun safety. After a thorough over-view, he handed me a 20 gauge double barrel shotgun and asked me to step up to the plate. I was full of newfound confidence after shooting 5 out of five clay targets. However this confidence quickly faded as I went to the next station and realized that I was no longer at the beginner’s station. Station 2 which was compromised of five separate fixed stations with disks flying high to low, left to right, slow to fast, intersecting, etc. over a pond. If skeet shooting were base-ball, I would have had a batting average of .050 and been benched after this station. Some of the other stations had memorable names such as Speedy and The Rabbit, where the disk hopped along the ground at a high rate of speed like a rabbit. Note to all rabbits: you are safe

Above: The sporting clays course features 12 stations with a diverse layout of shots ranging from an open field to the forest as well as over reclaimed bauxite mine ponds.

Left: Barnsley Resort is home to SpringBank Plantation, the South’s premier hunting preserve where guests can hunt quail, pheasant and wild turkeys in season.


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By Jennifer Bailey Baxter

HEART &SOLE

Fashion is an industry that thrives on the concept of “looking good.” Forget practicality, comfort, and budget. Hot trends, high-end brands, stilettos, expensive handbags, and

accessories make the fashion world go around — and rightfully so. After all, fashion is art and good art doesn’t come cheap.

However, numerous companies and charities have come together over the years to combine their intentions to serve others with their love of fashion. It’s dressing for a cause! It’s buying an article of clothing, guilt-free, to help someone or something in need, so let’s check out a few of these fashion brands that contribute 100% of their time and effort to give back!

One of the most well known companies for philan-thropic work is TOMS, a shoe company with the philosophy that for every pair of shoes purchased, the company gives a pair of new shoes to a child in need. The program, called “One for One,” was started in 2006 by Blake Mycoskie, and has accomplished donating over two million pairs of new shoes to children around the world.

Warby Parker is a company that shares the same philos-ophy as TOMS, but instead of shoes, Warby Parker specializes

Clothing For a Cause — Fashion Without Fault

in eyewear. For every pair of

glasses purchased, Warby Parker donates

a pair to someone in need. The mission of the company is to boost careers and employment for those with poor eyesight. An interesting fact is that a person’s income can increase by 20% when they can see.

Noonday Collections proceeds are intended to support more than

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loans, scholarships, and emergency assistance.

Noonday Collections special-izes in fair trade jewelry, belts,

handbags, and accessories from around the world.4Love Clothing is truly inspirational to

me. Created by Lindsey Parry, the company is designed to empower women from the

United States to the Republic of Panama. She designs maxi dresses and manufactures them

here in the USA and then exports them to the Republic of Panama, where women employed by 4Love

Clothing add signature, one-of-a-kind embellishments and handmade pieces to every dress. This company provides employment here and stable employment with fair trade wages to indigenous women.

Another very popular company that gives back is FEED Projects. Their philosophy comes from the fact that approxi-mately one in seven people go to bed hungry every night. They strive to help lower that statistic from creating teddy bears, T-shirts, bracelets, and bags to help feed the world. For each product purchased, a specific amount of money is


Jennifer’s educational background is in psychology, nursing, math, and health and fitness. She is a graduate of Berry College and completed graduate studies in Public Health and Public Health Nursing at Texas A&M and Emory University. Jennifer was an officer in the US Army Nurse Corps until the spring of 2010. She has always led a healthy, athletic lifestyle, which includes running, weight lifting, martial arts,

yoga, repelling, and dancing. Jennifer is the owner of Doll Boutique located at 315 Riverside Parkway, Suite 120 in Rome.

donated to hunger-relief programs, such as providing school meals to hungry students or even feeding one child for a full year, depending on the cost of the item.

Philanthropy Fashion hits close to home, as well as abroad. Its mission pledges 10% of total sales to different cause organi-zations within the local community of Franklin, Tennessee, and then sends donations to Haiti, Southern Sudan, and Uganda. Philanthropy Fashion carries one-of-a-kind scarves, bags, jewelry, and clothing.

For all the bookworms and library stalkers, Out Of Print is an online fashion boutique that features iconic out-of-print book covers on T-shirts and accessories. Their mission is to celebrate the greatest books and works of literature in the world, and provide books to communities in need. Every time a product is sold, a book is donated to Books For Africa.

Headbands of Hope works in two distinct ways. For every headband purchased, one is donated to a little girl suffering from cancer. Additionally, for every purchase, a $1 donation is made to the St. Baldrick’s Foundation to help fund childhood cancer research.

Elegantees, Rahab’s Rope, and The Somaly Mam Foundation employ women and girls rescued from sex trafficking in Nepal, the United States, India, and Cambodia respectively. They manufacture affordable dresses and tops, jewelry, bags, and many other things. The proceeds fund and benefit The Nepali Rescue Project, Restore NYC, Rahab’s Rope, The Mumbai Project, and The Somaly Mam Foundation.

Baby Girl Apparel was created by Criminal Minds star Shemar Moore who started the line as a way to support and

fund research into Multiple Sclerosis. This is a very personal cause for Moore; his mother suffers from this chronic disease, which currently has no known cause or cure and causes sufferers numerous, oftentimes debilitating, symptoms. Moore’s line of apparel includes trendy, comfortable clothing designed to compliment any and every woman’s body. Part of the proceeds go to fund The National MS Society.

There are numerous other interesting companies and orga-nizations dedicated to giving back to the world through the creation of fashion. Keep in mind that many of our most loved, high-end fashion designers give back in huge ways too. World-renowned designer Michael Kors contributed $5 million to fund hot meals for a non-profit based organization in New York City. Other designers and celebrities contribute to AIDS and breast cancer awareness through designing various T-shirts and accessories. Fashion is not just all hype. It is often the help needed to raise money and awareness for those in need.

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Traditions run deep in the South — they define us as an area, a culture, and a way of life. They shape our thoughts

and our actions, both of which brand us as Southerners. Change is inevitable. Yet, what defines us as Southerners does not change. Rooted in truth and shaped by myth, these traditions do transform as a result of modern technology, a highly mobile society, and a host of other outside influences. Nevertheless, the essence of Southern hospitality and the traditions that define it run deep in the hearts and souls of Southerners even today.

While the South may be defined geographically to some, it represents much more than a group of states. Within what is known as the South are many cultures highlighted by various cuisines, showcased by multiple music genres, and depicted by the arts and literature characteristic of the various cultures. One may not have tasted the Cajun or Creole dishes in New Orleans, listened to newcomers to the Nashville music scene, or immersed oneself in the arts and crafts of the Appalachian area, yet when you are invited to dinner in the home of a Southern host or hostess, you know without a doubt you are in the South.

Timeless Traditions for Today’s HostessesBy Kat Carter and Cristen Story

Traditional Southern vs. Modern Southern> Bourbon or Scotch, plus wine with

dinner vs. Margaritas, Mojitos, or beer

> Handwritten or printed invitations vs. e-vites or texted invitations

> R.S.V.P. vs. Regrets Only

> China, crystal, and silver vs. decorator paper plates, cups, and cutlery

The epitome of Southern hospitality are the hosts who welcome both friends and strangers into their home with the goal of making all feel welcomed, valued, and comfortable. While time has eroded some of our most cherished traditions, the goal of modern Southern hosts

Entertaining


A good guest . . .> Arrives on time appropriately dressed,

> Brings a thoughtful gift for the hostess,

> Avoids emotionally charged topics of conversation,

> Listens more than he or she speaks,

> Drinks alcohol in moderate amounts,

> Makes no demands on the hostess for special considerations, and

> Acknowledges the evening via a handwritten note or personal call.

remains to make their guests feel like family. Not that hosts in other regions of the country are not good, or even great hosts; they are. However, Southern hosts set the standard for hospitality by merging great food and drink, etiquette and good manners, and a beautiful and warm ambiance in a way that no others can.

Good food and a refreshing drink are a given when entertaining guests in the South. Typical Southern hosts take pride in their personal preparation of the food served to guests. However, modern Southern hosts also take advantage of the good food available at the grocery, local restaurants, and hometown bakeries. They may personally prepare the main entrée but purchase the appetizers. Smart modern hosts buy the dessert but add their personal touch or signature by enhancing it with fresh fruit or grandmama’s icing. With over

60 percent of women over the age of 16 in the workforce, blending homemade with locally made or bought is not only acceptable, but also Southern smart.

Etiquette and good manners are truly what set Southern hosts apart from all others. The warm welcome accompanied by a gentle hug and a smile is just the start to an evening guided by a set of expectations that ensure great conversa-tion on topics that don’t offend. Religion and politics are rarely discussed (only with like-minded guests would this be appropriate), and everyone is seated beside or near someone who can carry the conversation. Civility rules at the table, and you can be sure the loud or boisterous won’t be invited back. Gentlemen are expected to seat the woman beside him (note that seating is always boy-girl-boy-girl). No one eats until all are served. And, sucking or picking your teeth results in a collective

intake of breath at the table. Stuffy? Maybe, but it’s preferable to a free-for-all, every-man-for-himself, dive-in food-fest.

Though family heirloom table linens hint at a rich Southern lineage, don’t let the lack of them stop you from


Kat Carter and Cristen Story are a mother-daughter team who love to cook and entertain. While Kat relies on a more traditional approach to entertaining, Cristen blends modern with traditional approaches learned from her mama. Cristen lives in Valdosta with her husband Jamie and two sons, Lew and Carter. Kat is the former editor of NW Georgia Living and lives in Cedartown with her husband, Jimmy. Kat can be contacted at [email protected]. You can read her blog at lovingrant.blogspot.com.

entertaining. What is important is the obvious effort Southern hosts put into setting a beautiful table, sprucing up the sitting area, and refreshing the bath-room. Flowers, fine china and crystal, beautiful table linens, and candles may be the traditional tablescape for a Southern dinner, but the modern host diverges by incorporating bright colors, natural elements, and interesting and unique objects or collections. Tablescapes aligned with the type of cuisine served are as much a part of the creativity of the meal as the actual food served. While the traditional Southern dinner can appear formal and controlled,

Traditional and modern hostess gifts> Potted herbs

> Bottle of wine

> Infused olive oil or vinegar

> Handcrafted soap

> Hand towel

> Candle

> Scented oil diffuser

> Cocktail napkins

today’s Southern dinner party feels looser, livelier, and less contrived.

Traditions are handed down from one generation to another, and each genera-tion modifies their family traditions by incorporating their own style, creativity, ideas, and values. One is Southern by birth but also by choice—by the virtues of the traditions incorporated into one’s style, entertaining, and life. All that can be said of those who choose not to incorporate the traditions of Southern hospitality is, “Bless her little heart!” or “God love him!”

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Wine

The Wine Snob is on a personal mission to discover clever, delicious, wine-centric, and exciting flavor combinations

pairing food and wine. With the arrival of spring, we’re moving from the heavy stews and comfort foods of winter to lighter yet provocative flavors indicative of warmer weather and renewed growth in the garden.

Lamb is a perfect addition to a spring table and a truly great food for wine. It is milder and sweeter than beef, yet retains its own distinct flavor without domi-nating the pairing. My first choice for a lamb dish is the 2010 Alloro Pinot Noir, Laurel Ridge, Chahalem Mountains, Oregon (retail $35). This lush wine brings forth a mature dark cherry flavor that is velvety yet light and matches the earthy nature of the game. Alloro is a small winery that crafts entirely estate-grown pinot noir and is considered a current varietal trendsetter.

While lamb is used most commonly for formal meals, it’s wonderful to serve in a more casual dish. How about lamb kabobs with patty pan squash, cherry tomatoes, cipollini onions and morels topped with a firm, but light lamb jus? Open your senses further by pleasing the palate with one of the following classic white wines: Tapiz Torrontés, Argentina 2010 (retail $12) or Sancerre,

Raise a Glass

By Greg Teague, CSW

Lucien Crochet, France 2010 (retail $25). Tapiz (tapestry) is one of Argentina’s most technologically advanced wineries, and torrontes is a variety rapidly rising in popularity. Of the two wines suggested, it drinks slightly lighter in body yet is bold in structure and packed with ripe tropical fruit flavors and floral notes of honeysuckle. It has a charac-teristic mineral acidity that yields to the earthiness of this dish. The Sancerre, a sauvignon blanc from Loire Valley, France, presents more acid and mineral characteristics yet frames the wisp of fruit with a zesty intensity.

Moving on from the land to the streams. Perhaps you are serving a spring supper of freshly smoked moun-tain trout topped with a pickled mixture of spring vegetable and herbs, finished with a smoky paprika emulsion. For the pairing I immediately thought of a delicious favorite: Villa Maria Sauvignon Blanc, New Zealand (retail $12). This nice wine’s slight hint of sweet melon would be a refreshing accompaniment to these strong pickling spices while countering the slight pungency of the smoke flavors

That smoked trout also works well as a dip, served with Falls Mills grit chips. As an appetizer, pair it with heavy zinfandel to warm guests on a brisk spring night. I’d suggest Terra d’Oro Zinfandel, Amador County, California

Greg Teague, a certified specialist of wine, oversees the extensive wine and spirits program at Barnsley Resort, where he holds the esteemed title of Wine Snob.

(retail $13). Zinfandels are grown in many areas of the world, but Amador County is recognized as consistently producing some of the best of that vari-etal. The Terra d’Oro is rich and spicy with big, generous fruit.

One of my favorite dining experi-ences is to try several wines with a dish, which often rewards me with surprising flavor combinations. Tuna croquettes served with an avocado lime dressing offer a twist on a classic Southern dish. When thinking of wines to complement the great flavors of the tuna, creamy avocado and acidic lime, two stood out. First: The Blind Watchmaker from the creative minds at The Infinite Monkey Theorem in Denver, Colorado (retail $22). Yes, I said Colorado. Unexpected? Very much so! This viognier, verdejo androussanne blend lends its own creamy, acidic strength, making this an intense dual-flavor experience. Second: Let’s turn things on their head and pair a red wine with a fish. Try Petalos de Bierzo, Spain (retail $18). The mencia varietal, one you probably have never heard of, is the heart and soul of this delightful treasure. It’s on the lighter side with hints of fresh, slightly dried plum and is so very elegant.

Looking ahead to summer, let’s conclude today’s culinary journey with grilled peaches, a newly discovered favorite of mine. The sweet flavors of this summery stone fruit intensify when cooked over the open flame, which adds a nice char and hint of smoke to balance its inherent sweetness. After grilling, add a rich vanilla bean ice cream and maybe a pecan sandie cookie. What wine should we drink with this peach delight? I suggest Gruet Demi Sec Sparkling, NV, New Mexico (retail $25). Trust me, you can find great American wines in many regions of the country. This light-bodied, semi-dry sparkling wine with exotic fruit flavors is sure to please those with a sweet tooth.

Remember Wine Snob friends: Life is short; drink good wine!


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Judy L. Evans — Manager: 706-235-2881Equal Housing Opportunity Equal Employment Opportunity


Get Cook’in

By Aletia DuPree

Celebrate Southern classics. . . without the guilt

For the true blue Southerner, there is no greater love than our love for good home cooking. Comforting and delicious, the diverse regional flavors, all across Dixie from Texas, New Orleans, Carolina

Low-Country to the Appalachian Mountains have a history that is as rich as the gravy that tops the fluffy buttermilk biscuits on Southern dinner tables.

As wonderful as our Southern cuisine is, it does have the reputation of being calorie, fat, and sugar-laden. If you want to cut the calories, but still stay true to your Southern roots, don’t despair. With these healthy recipe makeovers, you can indulge in your favorite Southern comforts without the guilt.

Light and Crispy “Southern” Baked Chicken is finger lickin’ good! It’s so good you won’t even notice the difference. Deep South Tomato Pie takes a healthy overhaul substituting mayonnaise for Greek yogurt and low fat cheeses. The Southern classic “Fried Potato Patties” is pan seared in hot olive oil rather than deep fried and topped with caramelized Vidalia onions. The queen of Southern desserts, homemade banana pudding, is lightened with one third less calories than the traditional version and without sacrificing the

LOW-CAL COOL CUCUMBER SANDWICHESYield: about 3½ dozen tea sandwiches2 large cucumbers, peeled 1 8-ounce package low-fat cream cheese, softened1 teaspoon hot pepper sauce2 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced½ teaspoons garlic salt1 loaf honey wheat bread or whole grain½ teaspoon black pepper Garnish: Low-fat sour cream, paprika and fresh parsley sprigs

Score cucumbers with a channel knife and slice into ¼ inch slices. In a small bowl, combine cream cheese, hot sauce, parsley, garlic salt, and black pepper. With a small round cookie cutter, cut out bread circles and spread cream cheese mixture onto bread circles; place cucumber on bread and garnish.

To garnish: Place a small dollop of sour cream on cucumber and sprinkle with paprika and top each tea sandwich with a fresh parsley sprig.

mouth-watering flavor. For those hot summer days in the South, Raspberry-Lemon Sweet Tea sweetened with natural honey, along with Low-cal Cool Cucumber Sandwiches, make the perfect refreshing afternoon pick-me-up.


POTATO CAKES WITH CARAMELIZED VIDALIA ONIONSServes 82 pounds red-skinned potatoes, peeled and

cut into cubes¼ cup melted butter½ cup low fat milk or almond milk2 teaspoons salt2 teaspoons ground black pepper2 eggs, lightly beaten⅔ cup olive oil, divided1 cup Vidalia onions, thinly sliced3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped1 cup low-fat sour creamGarnish with thyme sprigs

In a large pot cover potatoes with water and cook until tender. Drain. In a large bowl, mash the potatoes. Add butter and milk. Mix well. Add the salt and pepper. Refrigerate for 2 hours, or until cold. Add eggs to the potato mixture, and mix well. Form potato-egg mixture into 16 cakes, and place on an ungreased baking sheet. Cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours. In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, heat ⅓ cup olive oil. Add the onions, and cook until the onions begin to caramelize and become translucent, about 6 to 7 minutes. Add the vinegar, and stir well. Remove from heat, and stir in thyme. In a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, heat the remaining ⅓ cup olive oil. Fry the chilled potato cakes for 7 to 8 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking. Add remaining oil as needed. Top each potato cake with onions and 1 tablespoon of sour cream.

LIGHT AND CRISPY “SOUTHERN” BAKED CHICKENServes 42 tablespoons sea salt1 teaspoon white pepper3 cups buttermilk, divided4 bone-in chicken breast, with skin off2 eggs, slightly beaten2½ cups Panko (Japanese style) bread crumbs

Pre-heat the oven to 350 degrees. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil, then set a large wire rack on the foil. Combine salt,

DEEP SOUTH TOMATO PIEServes 64 tomatoes, peeled and sliced8 fresh basil leaves, chopped⅓ cup green onion, chopped1 9-inch prebaked deep-dish pie shell1 cup grated low-fat Mozzarella cheese1 cup grated low-fat Cheddar cheese

1 cup Greek yogurt or low fat sour cream (traditional recipe 1 cup mayonnaise)

Salt and pepper to taste

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Layer tomato slices, basil, and onion in pie shell. Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix together grated cheese and yogurt. Spread on top of tomatoes. Bake for 30 minutes or until lightly browned.

THE LIGHTER SIDE OF SOUTHERN BANANA PUDDINGFrom BJ’s Restaurant Serves 8 to 10¾ cup Splenda, granulated sugar blend⅓ cup all-purpose flour¼ teaspoon salt3 large eggs, separated, at room temperature3 cups skim milk2 tablespoons light margarine, softened2 teaspoons vanilla extract

4–5 medium, fully ripe bananas1 12-ounce box reduced-fat vanilla wafers ½ teaspoon cream tartar5 tablespoons Splenda, granulated sugar blend1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Combine ¾ cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar, flour, and salt in the top of a double boiler. In small bowl, beat the egg yolks. Add milk and margarine. Add the egg mixture to the dry ingredients. Blend well. Cook, uncovered, over boiling water, stirring constantly until thickened. Reduce heat and cool stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in vanilla. Line the bottom of a 1½ quart baking dish (I use a glass bowl) with a layer of vanilla wafers. Top with a layer of sliced bananas. Pour about ⅓ of the custard over bananas. Continue to layer wafers, bananas and custard to make 3 layers each ending with the custard. (I also line the sides of the dish with vanilla wafers).

To make the meringue: Beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until foamy. Gradually add 5 tablespoons of sugar. Continue beating until stiff peaks form and mixture is glossy. Add vanilla. Spoon meringue over pudding, spreading to cover the entire surface and sealing edges. Bake at 350 degrees for 7 to 8 minutes or until meringue is lightly browned.

Special Tip! For better tasting banana pudding, pour the pudding over bananas and cookies while still hot.

pepper and 2 cups of buttermilk in a large plastic locking bag. Immerse chicken breast in buttermilk mixture and marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes. In a small bowl, whisk the remaining 1 cup of buttermilk and the slightly beaten eggs together. Place panko bread crumbs in a shallow dish. Dip chicken in egg wash mixture and then place chicken in the bread crumb mixture. Sprinkle with crumbs to cover and coat well. Line chicken on prepared baking sheet. Bake in pre-heated oven 20 to 25 minutes, until chicken is golden brown and juices run clear.


Aletia DuPree is a cooking instructor, speaker, author and former restaurateur. Born and raised in the South, her first book “Deliciously Southern: Southern Recipes and a Tour of the South” features over 370 mouth-watering recipes that capture the very heart of Southern cooking. Deliciously Southern is available wherever books are sold or at www.aletiadupree.com. For more information

about Aletia speaking topics, contact her at 770-773-5901 or email her at [email protected].

RASPBERRY-LEMON SWEET TEAServes 8 to 10 3 cups cold water1 family-size tea bag or 3 regular-

size teas bags (I prefer Luzianne)¾ cup honey 5 cups cold waterIce cubesGarnish: Lemon slices, fresh raspberries and fresh mint sprigs (optional)

In a deep sauce pan, bring water to a roaring boil. Remove from heat and place the tea bag in the hot water and cover; let

steep for 12 minutes. Remove tea bags, squeezing gently. In a large pitcher add

honey and pour warm tea over it, stirring well. Add 5 cups of cold water and stir until well mixed. Add raspberry syrup and mix well. Cool and serve in tall glasses over ice. Garnish with fresh lemon slices, fresh raspberries and fresh mint sprigs, if desired.

RASPBERRY SYRUP1 10-ounce package frozen raspberries¾ cup honey⅓ cup water

In a medium sauce pan, combine frozen raspberries, 1/3 cup water and honey. Cook until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.


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ROBERT’S WORLD By Robert SmythBy Robert Smyth

Middle age was when?

I have one of those milestone birth-days coming up. I turn 50 this year. Just writing it makes my stomach hurt. It got me wondering what the

average life span of an American male is these days and here is what I found . . .“According to the latest figures, the average life expectancy in the United States is 77.6 years, compared with 75.4 in 1990”, reports the July issue of the Harvard Health Letter. “Furthermore, old age begets older age. Today, a 65-year-old American man can expect to live to 81.6; if he reaches the age of 85, he can expect to live to see 90. Women still outlive men — although the gap is closing.” There goes my stomach again. So odds are, I am well past middle age and did not even know it. If you can’t trust the Ivy League, who can you trust? This information was very sobering and I am not sure what to do about it. I guess I should have seen it coming at me like a freight train because I have begun doing, feeling, and saying all those things I told myself I never would.

I swear I am two years away from holding a cat in my bathrobe and yelling at imaginary kids to get off my lawn. When some men go through this, they get to have a mid-life crisis and buy expensive toys like boats or motorcycles. I cannot afford to have a mid-life crisis and the closest thing to a new toy I can dream about is maybe a new weed eater if I catch it on sale. Some trade in the wife for a younger model . . . my wife is already a younger model compared to me and I don’t have the energy or cash flow that dating would entail. Besides my wife has already told me they won’t find the body if I even start thinking like that.

So now you see my conundrum. That’s a big fancy word for confused as a goose in a high wind. I am feeling old and, short of going to the retirement village where they will call me “young feller,” I am out of options to regain my youth. I have four kids and people tell me all the time, “Kids help keep you young!” Really? Have they met my children? I don’t know about yours but my children are exhausting. Others have told me, “Go to the gym and get in shape. That will make you feel young again.” Last time I was in a gym I could barely keep up with the super grandma on the treadmill next to me and a nice man of 30 asked me if I needed help racking those 25 lb. hand weights. So strike two. There are others that tell me “you’re only as old as you feel.” Please refer to the above points and insert your own joke here. Strike three, I’m out!

I guess I just see time slipping away and all those things I was just sure I was going to do, or be, are starting to show up in my rear view. I just knew I was going to be a cross between Magnum P.I. and Han Solo. I was going to have millions in the bank, live like a rock star, cure cancer, make Katie Couric swoon every time she mentioned one of my accomplishments on air, and be adored by children and mothers across the globe for my human-itarian acts. In short, I was supposed to be the Dos Equis man in real life. I love those ads. Just in case you were on the edge of your seat wondering, none of that happened.

My mom and wife have probably given me the best answer if I would just chose to listen. I have had some accomplishments in my life, like having a children’s book published. I have had some unique and wonderful experiences in my life, like riding an elephant at the circus. I have a family that is healthy and loves me. I can still do most things I like to do, even if it takes me a couple of days to get over some of them, and I don’t live in a cardboard box under a bridge. All in all, they would say I am blessed, and I guess I would agree. Besides, if you have seen those Dos Equis ads, that guy has to be well into his 70s. I still have time to become “The Most Interesting Man in The World,” or at least Silver Creek, Georgia.


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