Innholdsfortegnelse for September - October 2005 i Southern Lady

Oh how I love fall! I come to life when the first colored leaf appears and the cool breeze blows through. An afternoon in the crisp autumn air, a visit with friends on the terrace, an evening spent getting lost in a good book or walking through fallen leaves—these are just a few of the simple things that make this time of year so enjoyable. And in this issue, that’s exactly what we are celebrating. I am particularly fond of picnics in the fall. I remember when my boys were little, I would make hot breakfast casseroles and then we would jump in the car and hurry to the Botanical Gardens here in Birmingham. They would quickly spread the quilt, playing tug-of-war of course, and finally settle down to eat…

Such is the singular position of the first lady of the United States. From Martha Washington to Laura Bush, the first lady has been a central figure in the American landscape. Over the course of two centuries, her role has evolved to reflect the changing role of women in our society. Some presidents’ wives have served quietly as social and ceremonial helpmates, while others have been more vocal and active. Individually, each has left her imprint in the halls of the White House—and beyond. To celebrate the strength and impact of the first ladies of the United States, the Smithsonian Institution has sent First Ladies: Political Role and Public Image on the road. The fascinating exhibition’s upcoming visit to the Museum of the Jimmy Carter Library in Atlanta will begin…

“I’m not a comedian,” insists Jeanne Robertson. “I don’t tell any jokes. I don’t think I could.” What Jeanne will admit to being is a humorist, and she makes clear the difference between the two. “A comedian’s main goal is to make people in the audience laugh at any cost. They can say things that hurt people or use off-color language. The humorist’s goal is to make you laugh just as much by telling true stories that all people can identify with and aren’t offensive,” she says. For more than forty years, Jeanne has been entertaining and motivating crowds across the country, speaking at conventions, seminars, workshops, and even graduations. Commanding attention with her distinguished southern accent and tall stature—sixfeet- two-inches tall with her hair “mashed” down to be exact,…

FFor nineteen years, Kathryn Scott took centerfield atop a twelve-foot ladder every Saturday during the college football season. Amid a sea of Crimson Tide fans, Kathryn led the Million Dollar Band in “Yea Alabama,” the school’s fight song, during pre-game shows, and she directed attention-grabbing, don’t-leave-your-seat halftime performances. But becoming the director of the University of Alabama’s Million Dollar Band was no easy task—she was a female in a male dominated profession. An eager student and one-time band member at Alabama— she was awarded a bassoon music scholarship to the school—Kathryn returned to the university under the leadership of Dr. James Ferguson, her mentor. “Dr. Ferguson obviously had faith in me, and he called me and asked if I would be interested in interviewing for the job of assistant director.…

Practically perfect in every way, fruit-shaped confections are the ultimate in entertaining extravagance. Call upon an expert pastry chef to create a masterpiece out of marzipan, a centuries old delicacy that has graced the noblest of dinner tables and been offered as a luxury gift to both damsels and dignitaries alike. This pliable sugar-almond mixture can—in the hands of skilled artisans—be turned into most any shape and painted with precision, creating true-to-life treats, complete with even the most intricate of details. SEE RESOURCES FOR READERS FOR MORE INFORMATION.…

In a small town, just outside of Jackson, Mississippi, you’ll find a tiny, dust-filled studio. The dust comes from the almost constant creation of ceramic dinnerware and accessories. But it’s what’s underneath that layer of dust that brings folks from far and wide—a wealth of hand-painted dishes, each one unique in its own way, each one a work of art. “I’ve always been drawn to art,” says Vicki Carroll, who started her company, Vicki Carroll Pottery, over thirteen years ago. “I was always the one painting signs for the goal post or backdrops for the school play. I just never thought I could make a career out of it. It was more of a hobby.” Vicki got her start while practicing her hobby. After hand-painting a tile backsplash for one…

EEven the most social among us enjoy a little private time when we can be alone with our thoughts, our books, our music. Such time spent quietly rewards us richly with renewed energy and calmed spirits. But where can you find that peaceful place? You don’t need a separate room dedicated to solitude. Personal space can be carved out of any large room in your home—the den, the living room, your bedroom, or even a spot near the back door. Just gather a comfy chair, a plump pillow, and your favorite personal belongings to create a soul-soothing getaway that’s all your own. Who can resist the restorative qualities of an afternoon spent lounging on a screened porch? Rain or shine, this casual setting adds to the pleasure of completing a…

Each one different from the next, these circles of silver are united by their vintage splendor. Simple white linen napkins show off antique silver napkin rings. Found like hidden treasures in little shops all over the globe and collected over a lifetime, the rings represent people and places near and far. Sterling sets the standard for a fabulous tablesetting so rich in style that it never goes out of fashion. Simple or elaborate, these bands of silver add sparkle to a formal meal. But it’s the story behind each piece of the collection that is as intriguing as its finely wrought design. A heartfelt sentiment or a stately monogram hints at the history behind the tabletop accessory. Gathered one at a time from antique shops and flea markets, silver napkin…

Keep it simple. Retro-inspired containers and fun dishware will turn a typical picnic into an unforgettable event, so put Grandmother’s cake plate and those empty glass containers to good use. Instead of spending all day in the kitchen, make a quick trip to the grocery store where you can pick up deli sandwiches, chicken wings, drinks, and chips. With the hours saved, you’ll have more time to spend making memories with the ones you love. Peanut Butter Swirl Cake 1 (18.25-ounce) package yellow cake mix 1 (3.4-ounce) package vanilla instant pudding mix 4 eggs ¾ cup sour cream ¾ cup water ½ cup vegetable oil ¾ cup chocolate syrup ½ cup peanut butter Powdered sugar ▪ Preheat oven to 350°. Lightly grease and flour (10-cup) bundt pan. ▪ In large…

“I was reared in a Southern family so ‘food-minded’ that we talked about good food all the time,” writes Camille Glenn in the introduction of her latest cookbook, The Heritage of Southern Cooking, acknowledging from the start the role food has played in her life. Growing up in Dawson Springs, Kentucky, Camille Glenn gleaned much of her culinary knowledge at her grandfather’s spa hotel, Hamby House, that guests frequently visited for its mineral waters. “The water was so famous that it was bottled and sold as ‘Hamby Water,’” she says. Camille’s mother worked in the hotel’s kitchen and dining room, where Camille always seemed to find herself, watching as her mother prepared veal roast and gravy—“the richest and best gravy on earth,” she says—for hungry guests. “I seem to have…

1428 N.E. 26th Street • Wilton Manors, FL 33305 888.588.1980 or 954.564.5330 fax www.touchingbeauty.com Touching Beauty presents ....... Th e Christmas Duck collection .... Th ese ducks are taking their ducklings out for a stroll and they are ready to land in your home just in time for Christmas. For you or a loved one these precious little crimson clad critters are ready to head home for the holidays. Th ere are a limited number so please get your orders in while they last. A. 3.5 x 2.5 OPENWORK BUTTERFLY DESIGN FRAMES with multicolored Jewel Accents and Antique brass finish are great for Christmas favors. SOLD IN SETS OF 3 PCS. price $36.00 plus S&H B. Baby Christmas Ducklings are approximately 7?H 3?W 6?L. Precious little guys and gals that…

Not all of the twelve children’s books author Faye Gibbons has written are based on her upbringing in the north Georgia mountains, but most are. “That is always going to be my richest source of material,” says Faye. To describe her childhood there, the author chooses a single word: poverty. Then she adds, “Extreme poverty.” As her alcoholic father sought work, Faye’s family moved from one rented house to another. Seldom did they have electricity or indoor plumbing. Water had to be drawn from a well or spring. During one period of time, Faye and her mother had just one coat and one pair of shoes to share. “If it were a real cold day and Mama had to go somewhere, she had to have the coat and shoes, and…

Bonding with a sister can be tough when she has more memory than your computer. Once something goes into my sister’s brain the door slams shut like a steel trap and keeps it in there until it’s to her advantage to pull it out. “When are you coming over here with my present?” My sister Katherine’s question over the telephone early one afternoon jolted me. Oh my gosh, it was her birthday! Not just any birthday. It was an ugly-zero birthday. Her fiftieth, and I had forgotten it. It was also during a time in our lives when we were working to improve our relationship. Oprah had taught the world about “bonding” and we realized that we needed a dose of it. Nothing I could do but try to “cover.”…

FFather Tim has done it again. For years, this fictional clergyman of Mitford renown has filled his journals with words of wisdom, faith, and encouragement, enough treasured inscriptions to fill not one, but two books. First with Patches of Godlight and now with A Continual Feast, Father Tim shares with us his collection of favorite quotes—many that evoke solemn reflections, pensive pondering, wide smiles, and often times fits of laughter. Both thought provoking and playful, the pages of this compilation are filled with lively ideas, common sense, and profound wisdom from the likes of C.S. Lewis, Marcus Aurelius, Emily Dickinson, Lauren Bacall, Yogi Berra, Oswald Chambers, and Thomas Jefferson. Such diversity makes this one of our staff’s favorite sources for a “thought of the day.” In addition to these words…

“There’s something about fall that is so wonderful. It’s the perfect time of year for a wedding,” says brideto- be Amanda Straka. “I just love the cool weather and the beautiful colors of the changing leaves.” The bride’s affinity for fall made planning a luncheon theme for her and her bridesmaids a fairly easy task, and it was a task that several long-time family friends gladly welcomed. Hostess Dolly Walker says, “I’ve known Amanda since she was a little girl. She and my daughter have been friends for years. In fact, all of us involved with the luncheon have been neighbors for quite a long time.” Dolly offered to open her home for the occasion, and each of the other hostesses agreed that this should be no ordinary luncheon. “We…

Mother Nature provides an abundance of adornments for a seasonal celebration. Just a few decorative additions are all you need to create the look of autumn enchantment.…

Red Rome, Golden Delicious, Cameo, and Fuji. Apples are one of nature’s most delectable treats, but for years, they have also been used to create artful displays. Add a punch of color to an ordinary flower arrangement by incorporating the freshest of these fruits in gorgeous shades of red, yellow, and green. Or turn an apple into something else entirely—perhaps a place card holder or a candleholder or a vase. Once you try a few of these ideas, many more are sure to follow.…

Oh how we love that sparkle and shine. But glitz and glamour don’t have to be reserved just for a night on the town; they’re also perfectly suited for a dinner at home. Bracelets, brooches, necklaces—turn formalwear accessories into tableware trimmings.…

Pear Dumplings 1 (15-ounce) package pie crusts All-purpose flour for work surface 4 medium pears ¼ cup brown sugar ½ teaspoon cinnamon ¼ teaspoon nutmeg 1 egg, beaten 1 teaspoon water ▪ Preheat oven to 375°. ▪ Roll pie crusts on lightly floured surface to 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into 6-inch squares (Note: Each crust will cover 2 pears, but you will need to reroll dough for second pear). ▪ Core pears from bottom within 1 inch of top. Peel pears. ▪ In small bowl, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Spoon approximately 1 teaspoon sugar mixture into center of pear. ▪ Place pear in center of pastry square. Bring corners of pastry to top of pear and shape around pear. Remove any excess pastry. Moisten edges of pastry to seal.…

ⅲ cup sugar, or to taste 2 tablespoons cornstarch Pinch of salt 1½ cups water 2 cups fresh blueberries 2 tablespoons butter, melted 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice ½ teaspoon grated lemon peel ▪ Mix the sugar and cornstarch together in a medium saucepan. Add the salt, water, berries, and melted butter. Cook, stirring often, over medium heat until the sauce has thickened and is clear, 20 to 25 minutes. Add the lemon juice and peel, stir, and serve. NOTE: This sauce can be made with other berries, but blueberries seem to be the favorite.…

COVER Sterling silver basket available at Tricia’s Treasures. Flowers by Dorothy McDaniel’s Flower Market. Marzipan pears available at Angels, Cake, and Confections. YOUNG SOUTHERN LADIES: SHELLEY HITT PAGE 12: Art Handbags, shelleyhitt@eatel.net; www.thedivabag.com. FIRST LADIES: POLITICAL ROLE AND PUBLIC IMAGE PAGE 14: Jimmy Carter Library and Museum, 441 Freedom Parkway, Atlanta, GA 30307; 404-865-7101; www.jimmycarterlibrary.org; www.smithsonian.org. LONG AGO IN THE MOUNTAINS PAGE 16: 334-569-3926; www.fayegibbons.com. KEEP ’EM LAUGHING PAGE 20: Jeanne Robertson, 336-584-9641; jeanne@jeannerobertson.com; www.jeannerobertson.com. TAKING CARE OF BUZZNESS PAGE 24: Candle Bee Farm, www.candlebeefarm.com. ENTERTAINING TOUCHES PAGE 34: Sterling silver basket available at Tricia’s Treasures. Flowers by Dorothy McDaniel’s Flower Market. Marzipan pears available at Angels, Cake, and Confections. SIGNATURE STYLE: THE POTTERY OF VICKI CARROLL PAGE 44: Vicki Carroll Studios, 209 West Ridgeland, Ridgeland, MS 39157; 877-853-7410; www.vickicarroll.com.…

“Come in for a spell,” says Dèbe Henry with a big smile. This year she and fellow hostess Doris Talbert have invited over twenty of their closest friends to their annual autumn event that’s referred to as “a night out for the gals.” Beautiful blooms throughout Dèbe’s home set a cheerful tone for the evening, and a host of tiny details hint at the fun and frolic to be had with this lively bunch. “We’re just children at heart,” says Doris, explaining that tricks and treats and lots of laughter are all a part of this festive occasion. But that’s not all. Dèbe’s collections of crystal and silver add elegant touches to the table. She says, “Each year we try to come up with new ways to entertain. We make…

In aged terra cotta pots, moss topiaries have a rustic appeal. To create your own decorative topiary, cover a pre-made form with preserved sheet moss or reindeer moss and fill in with your favorite dried floral varieties. Here we’ve used yellowish yarrow as a compliment to the green moss, and we’ve added poppy pods, dried berizillia, and pheasant feathers to complete the sculpture. Next, choose a way to cover the stem—it is part of the design, too. There are many options, such as wrapping the stem with twine or ribbon. If you want a more delicate look, try using thatch reeds. And fresh willow twisted around the stem can provide a sophisticated yet natural look. Once you’re finished, all you need to do is find the perfect place to display…

It was barely daylight, but something in the early morning air said that this was an important day. I climbed out of bed, stepped into my pink fuzzy slippers, and shuffled down the hallway and into the kitchen. There she was, my mother, hair already pinned-up perfectly and a bright smile that could only mean one thing: we were expecting company. “Good morning,” she said to me. I love the way she said that, almost like a song. “Everyone will be here at noon, so we’ve got a lot to do.” She smiled again, this time while pouring a glass of apple juice into my favorite cup. After a rather large helping of scrambled eggs, a half-apancake, and a few slices of bacon—all of which my mother managed to cook…

Beautiful Dreamer “I think when you have something inside of you the way that I did the love of music, that’s gonna be what you’re gonna do,” says Dixie, a Tennessee native who started singing in church before she was even two-years-old. She says, “The year that I was born is the year that Texaco started putting the Metropolitan Opera broadcasts on the radio on Saturday afternoons, and I heard that because our house was a house where music was always around. “By the time I was four, I knew it was my destiny to leave my home some day and go and sing at the Metropolitan in New York City, wherever that was. I thought it was inside the radio—it’s so sweet now for me to remember that—and I…

These are the keys to creating an impressive wall grouping. From classic elegance to cutting-edge chic, here you’ll find ideas to help you get the “hang” of things by adding some gallery-worthy glamour to your home. BOTANICAL BEAUTY FAR AWAY REFLECTIONS FOCAL POINTS…

Honeyed Nectarines 4 nectarines, cut into ½-inch cubes ¼ cup honey ▪ In medium saucepan, combine nectarines and honey. Cook over low heat 2 minutes until honey dissolves. Increase to medium heat and continue cooking additional 4 minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature. Sugared Pears 2 tablespoons butter 3 pears, peeled and cut into ½-inch cubes ¼ cup sugar 1 teaspoon freshly grated lemon zest ▪ In medium saucepan, melt butter. Add pears, sugar, and lemon zest. Cook over medium heat 5 to 7 minutes or until desired tenderness. Serve warm or at room temperature. Cinnamon Apples 2 tablespoons butter 3 medium apples, peeled and cut into ½-inch cubes ¼ cup sugar ½ teaspoon cinnamon ▪ In medium saucepan, melt butter. Add apples, sugar, and cinnamon. Cook over medium…