Season Stops, but Birmingham Does Not
Its already August and we’re quickly approaching the end of summer; however, there’s still a lot of fun things going on in Birmingham to keep the season in motion. Whether it’s a spontaneous meet up at one of the local breweries, a night event, festival, or even the opening of a spunky new restaurant, happenings in and around Birmingham are plentiful and there is something for everyone—just a quick drive from The Retreat at Mountain Brook. For the first year since its inception 5-years ago, Southern Makers, an event celebrating creativity and handcrafted goods, will make its Birmingham debut at the historic Sloss Furnaces. The two-day festival, Aug. 12, noon – 5 p.m. and Aug. 13, noon – 4 p.m., celebrates Southern craftsmanship at its finest, showcasing hand-picked collections of beautifully crafted jewelry, home goods, gourmet food, pottery, hand blown glass, sculpture, furniture, and clothing, and explores southern based creativity that enriches lives. Southern Makers will also hold other events gathered around this weekend, including: a 5-star dinner cook-off under the stars at Pepper Place on 2nd Ave., urban dancing, a Beer Garden, demonstrations and workshops, and a Rock and Relax After Party at Avondale Brewing located only 14 minutes from The Retreat at Mountain Brook. This year’s media partner for Southern Makers is Garden and Gun Magazine , so be sure and follow up with the print publication and online to see if you make it in to the photo gallery for this festive event! Next up is Birmingham’s Sidewalk Film Festival, named one of 2017’s 50 Film Festivals “Worth the Entry Fee” by MovieMaker Magazine. In its 19th year, Sidewalk Film Festival, is a celebration of new independent cinema, featuring filmmakers from across the country and around the world, who have come to screen their work. With multiple venues located within Birmingham’s Historic Theatre District, spontaneity rules the schedule. Weekend passes for the Aug. 25-27 weekend, range from $30-$285. Sidewalk is also partnering with Arc Stories to present Projections: A Live Storytelling Event on Aug. 26, for only $15. If you’re looking for something fun to do, traveling from The Retreat at Mountain Brook to The Historic Lyric Theatre in 20 minutes, is your route to weekend fun. Read more about Birmingham’s Historic Theater District here, in one of our favorite Southern Blogs, Style Blueprint. And lastly, if you love to eat but can never can decide where to go because of two different cravings, Birmingham’s new niche restaurant might hold the satisfying key to your heart. The Cowfish Sushi and Burger Bar recently opened at the Summit, and touts a concept to please sushi and burger lovers. Not only do they offer more “normal” assortments of meals, they offer the first creation of both sushi and burger – the “Burgushi.” If for some reason you can’t make up your mind, try a bento box to sample a mini-burger along with your choice of sushi roll and three tasty side items. A short 20 min. drive from The Retreat at Mountain Brook, Cowfish Sushi and Burger Bar is definitely worth exploring!
Tour, Apply, Dine on our dime. Here’s how.
If you’ve been actively seeking a spacious apartment living in Birmingham Alabama here’s a chance to break through the summer searching chaos. We’ve made it easy as 1, 2, 3 to enjoy a more pleasurable Apartment hunting experience. Get started by following these 3 steps: Step 1. Visit The Retreat at Mountain Brook for a personal tour of our 3 BR apartment homes. Step 2. Complete your rental application for one of our beautiful 3 BR homes and sign your lease within 3 days. Step 3. Receive $300 off your first month’s rent and Dinner on us at one of 3 Mountain Brook restaurants. As promised it’s easy as 1, 2, 3 to enjoy a pleasurable apartment hunting experience. Get $300 off 1st month’s rent & dinner at 1 of 3 Mountain Brook restaurants for each guest who signs a 3 bedroom lease with us before July 31st when you follow these steps. ***Please note this offer applies to 3BR apartments only. Each guest must fully complete steps 1 & 2 before the offer for FREE dinner and $300 off 1st month’s rent can be redeemed. One offer per lease agreement. “Available three bedrooms can be found in any of our three neighborhood villages.” The Brookshire Townhome 3BR | 2.5 Baths $1699 | 1,900 SQFT. The Winsford 3BR | 2 Baths $1305 – 1345 | 1,450 SQFT. The Beaumont Townhome 3BR | 2.5 Baths $1650 | 1,670 SQFT. All of our apartment units are pet friendly and include an abundance of community based amenities including a community garden, Dog Park, saltwater pools and family friendly events just to name a few. A complete list of amenities can be found here. (link to amenities page) Click to view the Power of 3 Promo page to discover all the details.
A Guide to Living Minimal with Pets
“Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful.” -William Morris I used this quote in my last post but I feel that it holds the same truth and value in this post. I was thinking about it a bit and there are a lot of reasons that I have a dog. Some people only need one, which is great too, but I really love for everything in my home to be multitaskers. My dog isn’t just a companion; she has irreplaceable value. I remember when my husband worked 4 hours from Las Vegas and we only got to see each other on the weekends for a year. At first I had no problem being home alone at night but all of the sudden every noise that the wind caused would set me on edge. And every time I was sure someone was breaking into my house. What kept me calm and soothed my worries was having my 45 lbs. A-type labradoodle start sleeping next to my bed. I knew that if anyone was actually coming into the house she would start barking and do her best to protect the home. And it’s a bit funny because I originally got her because, 1, I fell in love with her for no apparent reason at the pet store and, 2, she is a high energy dog that was a perfect companion for my long distance running. (This is Lexy and Caramel’s spot in the house. They know that they can go here and not get bothered if it gets too hectic.) Honestly, I couldn’t ask for a better subject to approach in regards to minimalism. Pets are a true reflection on how we approach things. They are so wonderful because they require very little but can bring more joy and life into our living spaces. But there is a known secret about pets that many may not consider. Hold on. This is a bit of a truth bomb. Pets don’t need much. In fact Pets need very little to not only survive but thrive. Consider these needs: They need their own space and a place to sleep. Kennel, dog bed, etc. While kennels may be a bit on an investment and take up a lot of space this ensures that have their own space that they can go when they need to and mimics a den like environment. This may not be necessary if you choose another training method for your dog other than kennel training. Food (and bowls). Another bulky item but something that should be manageable and easy to place somewhere tucked away in the kitchen and out of site. Supplements: supplemental treats for hair, skin, nail, and bone growth or for teeth health. Buy as needed Grooming: Soap/Conditioner, Brush, Nail Clippers (Do it yourself! It’s easy!) Toys: I only have 1 or 2 for each dog at a time. I’m not really into the whole dog toys covered in drool laying all over the floor in my living space look. I would definitely have more when they were puppies but only keep one out and the rest in a basket. Collar/Leash/Harness. This is a must for dog walks or runs. It is up to you to find what works best. Some owners prefer a harness where others do just fine with a leash. Once you find what works get rid of what does not! Medical supplies. This widely differs from pet to pet. I am definitely not an expert but all I can say is use your best judgement on finding what works….and then get rid of the rest! Additional needs: These needs depend on the weather. I don’t really need weather gear for my pets due to the warm weather conditions and little rain. But I would invest in more weather gear for running if I lived in either a colder or rainier climate. (All I bring when I take that dogs for a walk. Well not the whole roll of baggies. I’ll tuck one or two into my workout pants. If I am going for a run I’ll grab my armband too.) Then consider these wants: Some may argue that this isn’t a need but I disagree. When training my puppy I would give them pieces of food that worked perfectly since they were the perfect size the go through a handful of during a training session. To me personally, treats is an extra. I will buy these once in a while but once they are gone I don’t feel the need to keep them stocked in my pantry. Extra toys. If they are a puppy then this really is more important to have but other than that I keep it minimal. Extra of anything. While the above needs are important we don’t necessarily need two of them. But, have not fear, I have a tip that could help with that below. Pro Tip: I have a small enclosed basket in my entryway that houses all my dog stuff. For both doggies too! I realized that I had a little bit of everything around my house but when I put them all in one spot I found I didn’t need a good amount of it. I either had an extra leash or toys or old collars that I no longer needed. To be honest I could probably stand to go through it again. What I like about it is that I can fit EVERYTHING into one spot. There is even enough room for the dog bowls if I really wanted to put them in there for some reason. When you limit space for your dog’s stuff then you can be more choosey about what you decide to keep for them. The trick is not to stuff it. If it’s stuffed then it will be hard to see what is in there and hard to decide what should stay or go. (If this
Melt into Summer at this Trendy Neighborhood Eatery
One of the best things about summer is getting the chance to spend the extra long days with family and friends. Usually this involves relaxing by the pool, around the table or even at a local hang out site. If you’re looking to discover a new go-to-spot in the Avondale Neighborhood we’d like to suggest adding Melt to your list. When you first enter the restaurant it feels more like stepping into a beachside eatery. From the high back, full gloss, wooden booths to rustic cement floors and assorted retro décor. The laid back vibe makes this vibrant spot the perfect place to hunker down and stay awhile. The constant hustle and bustle feels more like people are stopping in for a bite between excursions rather than breaking during their corporate lunch hour. When we sat down with co-owner Paget Pizitz, it quickly became clear why Melt is such a neat place to hang out. The incredibly innovative history behind this public hot spot is what we believe has set a foundation to make it special. “Behind this exceptional eatery is nothing short of sheer passion.” Paget, started her career as a recruiter for the fashion industry, and later broke out to create a very successful dating service, which later sold to a company in Atlanta. A born entrepreneur, with a passion for making human connections, she now had a new venture in mind. Just like that, Paget approached her business partner Harriet Despinakis to start a restaurant. Harriet, who co-founded Ocean and 5 Point Public House, never thought she would be back in a restaurant, much less a food truck. She wasn’t convinced a restaurant was the best move at the time and Paget was able to convinced her to start a food truck instead. All along, Paget’s ultimate vision was to develop a neighborhood eatery but agreed it was clever to start small in order to get to know the community. When Paget walked around observing the area and its residents she knew they had to be part of the Avondale district in a larger capacity. At the time, the heart of the area was a vacant garage called Ted’s Gas station. The garage sat empty for four years and was the 3rd restaurant to open in Avondale once this dynamic duo finalized renovations. Their extraordinary vision saw past the dilapidated station and today, guests can marvel at the converted garage as they sip local brew along with the best pulled pork nachos you ever put in your mouth. These ladies sever food by the mantra “Classic Food with a Modern Twist” and have been slinging cheese since February 2011. Stop by for a drink. Stop by to play a board game. Stop by for both. Either way, you’ll wish you done it sooner.
How To Make The Most Of Your Apartment Space
This post is really going to wet your whistle for minimalism. I didn’t get into the minimalist mindset until later in life and I really wish I could have brought it more into my apartment days. If minimalism interests you but seems too intimidating or overwhelming then I have some things to share that could help you turn your apartment into your own personal retreat. Free from unnecessary distractions and physical things that weigh your life down. To do this you need to think of your own reasons why. Why does minimalism interest you; if it does at all? What is your motivation? You may even need to write the reason/s down on a post it and put it on your refrigerator to remind you when you are starting the bang your head against the wall. Not really- but maybe. Your reasons why will be one of the things that will help you reach the goal of making the most of your space. “Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful.” -William Morris Have you found your reasons why? For me it’s the peace that it brings into my life and that there is less to clean! And if I can spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying moments in my home I’m all in. For some, their reasons why include having free time and just simplifying their lives. Got your reason? Ok, let’s go. (My retreat. Sometimes all you need is a good book and a cup of tea. Oh and comfy couch. And some pillows. And maybe some flowers. And a coffee table for when your arm gets tired of hold the tea…not much at all. Book: At Home with Madame Chic by Jennifer L. Scott) Let’s first talk about need versus want. Every space and circumstance is different and that makes your needs different too. It took me a while to figure this out. And as I continue on this journey I am still figuring this out. Something else that I have also learned is that our circumstances in life often change and so our needs must change with it as well. Everyone on this earth has basic survival needs. Food, water, and shelter. But from there needs widely differ. It would be impossible for me to tell you whether or not you need a computer. In most of our lives that is crucial to our livelihood, and although it does not fill our bellies, it’s still definitely a need. “Love people, Use things. Not the other way around.” -The Minimalists But then let us consider things we don’t need. For example, I could probably say you don’t NEED a giant ice-cream floaty for your pool but everything else you need to navigate for yourself and reflect on. And let me tell you, there will be growing pains. You will look at a pile of stuff you have acquired and wish you could watch paint dry instead. But let me give you some encouragement. It does get easier! And if ever there is a time to practice making your life lighter and more peaceful it would be now; while living in the apartment! There is a 3 step process that clicked with me that I would like to share with you. Although, there are many processes to simplifying your life this is the one that I have naturally created for myself and works the best for my own life. “Tidy house. Tidy mind.” -Unknown Step 1: Take everything out of a room! No, I am not crazy. I have tried over and over to just assess everything in the room and pick out what I don’t want. And this sort of works. But nothing works like this method. I will explain to you why in the steps below. Trust me. Step 2: It is only after everything is removed that I make piles and assessments. My piles are usually keep, giveaway/sell, and trash. This step goes hand in hand with Step 3 which is … Step 3: Create you dream space. Only put back into the room what you love, think is beautiful, and serves YOU to the best of its ability. Because really, who is doing the owning here? The stuff or you? (Can you tell our couch is “well loved”? Our little family of four happily piles onto one couch in our house. We got rid of our other couch during our move to Lancaster, CA from Las Vegas, NV and have not looked back since) Setting you up for success: Need some resources that will give you a tiny kick in the pants? I have some for you that might be helpful to you below. Declutter minimalist 30 day challenge. Interested in challenging yourself? Try doing this. I really like this printable version you can find on Cait Flanders blog. Books to read: At Home with Madame Chic By Jennifer Scott (really anything this wonderful lady writes) The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo Minimalism: Living a Meaningful Life (on my list) by Joshua Fields Millburn & Ryan Nicodemus Stuff to watch on Netflix: Minimalism: A Documentary About Important Things by Joshua Fields Millburn & Ryan Nicodemus I am in no way affiliated with any of these sources. This is just me dumping all the stuff I have learned onto you in the hopes of helping you to bring more peace and joy into your life. You’re welcome. Love, The Semi-Minimalist Meet The Semi-Minimalist. Mama and full-time student by day. Blogger and sewist by night. Born in Stuart, Florida she currently resides in the southern California desert. Beginning her blogging journey in December of last year she has also spends her spare time developing both her home with minimalism and beginning the journey of creating her business of ethically sourced clothing. Read more at Thesemiminimalist.com or find her on
To Roomie or Not to Roomie
Having a roommate isn’t for everyone. When you are by yourself there is no one to get on your nerves. No conflict or someone who leaves their dirty socks in the living room. Just you, yourself, and I. Although, there are many positives to having a roommate that might just surprise you, and hopefully if you follow my expert tips you can mitigate any potential dirty sock situations. “I really dove head first into this whole roomie situation.” Having been in the military I have been forced into the roommate debacle. My first experience was rooming with 50+ other girls for an entire month. I called this basic military training (BMT). I really dove head first into this whole roomie situation. While, I didn’t get along with everyone there was a lot that I learned from the experience. One, was that there were some people that I really clicked with, and others that I’d think twice about. The ones that I did click with, we had each other’s back and really helped each other out when we needed it. Although, this is a roommate scenario on steroids, and not something I would recommend long term, the opportunity to find people to bond with and learn about was priceless. The next roommate I had was in tech school. We shared an 8×10 room and shared the bathroom with two other girls. We roomed together for a total of 6 months. This was where I really started to enjoy the experience as I met my best friend during this time. If you haven’t guessed it by now we were roomies! She was my best partner in crime. We looked out for each other’s and were each other’s shoulder to cry on. And, again, while I understand that having a roommate isn’t for everybody here are some things to consider below to help you make that decision for yourself. (I love this dorky picture of me and my best friend, Mistry Lousch. It was taken with a disposable camera at a parade in San Antonio, TX during tech school. Although this was taken in 2008 to me it looks like a nostalgic Wonder Year’s photo). Why I would recommend having a roomie: Cheaper rent. This is a major motivation in why most people choose to seek out a roommate. And let’s face it- money does make the world go ‘round. Having a roommate gives you the ability to free up income. What might this go to? Well, the skies the limit. This could go towards traveling abroad, a weekend local adventure (aka ROADTRIP!), or pursuing your own personal hobbies or self-development. Developing interpersonal skills. This might take you the most out of your comfort zone but something that is worth its weight in gold. If I could give my younger self any one piece of advice it would be to pursue chances to be out of my comfort zone to learn something new. This is often where you grow the most! Living in the same space with someone who is not a family member is a good way to sharpen those skills; skills that are priceless and will be used throughout your life, for the rest of your life! Sharing is Caring. Depending on your current living situation this may benefit you differently than it would someone else. Living in one apartment typically means you only need one blender, one set of silverware, once shower curtain, etc. I think that you get the picture. The point that I am trying to make is depending on the relationship between you and your roommate you could potentially minimalize your life and share items in your living space instead of having duplicates. Have you heard about libraries of things? Well, this is similar only you don’t even have to return the items unless your roommate moves away. This is not only a good way to cut costs but to help lower the amount of things we purchase and bring into our lives as well. This clears our mind from clutter and did I mention save some mullah? Sounds like a win-win to me! Okay now that you are convinced that getting a roomie is the best idea since sliced bread it is important that you choose your new roomie carefully. I will leave you with a couple tips for the best roommate experience ever because I don’t want you to miss out on meeting someone who you will potentially want in your life for the remainder of your life! (This is my bestie and me at the PBR show in Las Vegas, NV. She was stationed at Vandenberg AFB was I was stationed at Creech AFB. Apart but together.) “Consider that not only are you choosing a roommate but that they are choosing you.” Choose your roomie carefully: Choose someone who you may already know. This could give you a good idea as to their character and if you trust them enough to live with them. Create an interview process. If you do not know them very well beforehand make sure to set up a process that allows you to make a smart decision. Ask a lot of questions and try to get to really know them. Even ask for references of people that can vouch for their character or that have been their roommate previously. Be open as well. Consider that not only are you choosing a roommate but that they are choosing you. A little Communication goes along way. This is part of the magic of having a roommate. You don’t always agree and you may find what they do to be weird but don’t give up hope. I have found that in every living experience that I have had, apartment or otherwise, that as long as there was an open stream of communication I was less likely to feel annoyed but the other person. I was also able to feel that
Eat Like a Local in Birmingham Alabama
In our business we get the chance to play tour guide to incoming residents who choose to make Birmingham either a temporary or permanent home. We’ve had the pleasure of guiding many visitors in the direction of so many attractions, eateries, and local “watering holes” that we’ve created a compilation of our most insightful dining recommendations. There are so many hot spots to sit, eat, and enjoy that it’s easy to become overwhelmed if left to the task on your own. In fact freelance travel writer Carolanne Roberts of Southern Living says, “there are so many options, you can eat out every day of the year” without re-visitation. Whether you’re new to town, getting reacquainted with the area or just want a fresh look at the most appetizing dining options, this list is sure to wet your whistle. A sweet find that’s pet friendly: As a family and pet friendly community, we relish the chance to brag about local spots that are as welcoming to pets too. The Continental Bakery in Mountain Brook is just such a place. It’s not uncommon to see family members meeting up for breakfast in the morning. Mom’s with strollers meeting their husbands during a workout break with “furry babies” in tow! When we stopped by we happened upon a gorgeous Labradoodle who was more host than pet. He greeted everyone that walked by and made rounds for lots of good rubbings. Inside the bakery you’ll discover a well stocked wall of artisan breads, local goods & at atmosphere very close to the inside of a French cottage. Before you know it, it’s time to head back to work and you walk out of their oversized antique door, looking forward to tomorrow. Fine Dining: Birmingham is known for its fine dining options and three of the most popular with local and visitors alike are Highlands Bar & Grill, Bottega Cafe, and Chez Fonfon. With Master Chef Frank Stitt at the helm, the flavors that exude from any of these three locations will certainly take your taste buds on a trip of a lifetime. If you’ve never had a chance to taste your way through Europe, seize the day from within the city limits of Birmingham, Alabama. Highlands Bar & Grill made the number 50 position of Top 100 restaurants in America and is the only Alabama restaurant on the list. You never know who you might see there from celebrities to famous authors, food critics or, your next door neighbor. Fine dining. Superb service. Fabulous cocktails! If you’re a martini snob – it’s the best place ever for a dirty martini. Bottega Café – Everyone loves Bottega Café, with its option of al fresco outdoor dining, especially at happy hour or brunch. Go there to see and be seen. Everything at Frank and Pardis Stits restaurants is to die for, but our go-to is the Crab cakes—all crab, delicately seasoned, never getting in the way of flavor. Must have drink? Try their famous West Texas Cocktail. Chez Fon Fon – Everyone loves Bottega Café, with its option of al fresco outdoor dining, especially at happy hour or brunch. Go there to see and be seen. Everything at Frank and Pardis Stits restaurants is to die for, but our go-to is the Crab cakes—all crab, delicately seasoned, never getting in the way of flavor. Must have drink? Try their famous Orange Thing – that’s what you’ll see everyone sipping as they enjoy food and friends at one of Birminghams favorite places. Night Life: In downtown Birmingham, 20th Street offers so many choices that it’s tough to pick one. For those who want to take their culinary experience out on the town we suggest you stroll down 20th Street and discover what delights you. “Taste it all” as you stroll the streets, experience the atmosphere and nibble your way through a variety of available eateries. According to Yelp, reviewers rate these delicious choices as the the top 5 places to stop during your stroll down 2oth Street. Paramount Bar, Trattoria Centrale, Ono Poke, Brick & Tin, Cafe Dupont Artistic Flair: For those inclined to observing art and sipping great wine, Gallery 1930 is the perfect place to start. Here you will find a combined bar and art gallery home to many local artists. Keep an eye out on upcoming events as they like to have artist present their work. For example, they hosted artist Arthur Price in May. Tech Minded: The Revelator Coffee House on 3rd Avenue is the perfect environment for the digital nomad. This is not just a quick place to grab a cup of “joe”, but a meticulously thought out environment for serious coffee connoisseurs. We wanted to try something a bit different to test their skills, and we weren’t disappointed. We ordered the “Capim Branco” brimming with notes of toasted coconut, toffee, chestnut and tamarind. It comes black, so if you want to enjoy the bold notes with cream be sure to ask. Adorned in a simple layout, magnified with iridescent banners that line the wall from floor to ceiling. When the morning light hits it just right you will see the life of the city outside dancing around as visitors start their day. All that’s left is to decide when to go. Enjoy!
A Day In the Life of a Retreat Resident
It’s seven o’clock and your alarm goes off. You turn a few times in the sheets pondering your first steps of the day. The wake mode on your Bose Wave Music System begins to quietly warn you that it is time to rise n’ shine, as the full-wake mode turns up the sound and bass. Rubbing the sleep from your eyes your ears pick up the lyrics of Adele’s “Rolling in The Deep.” It’s a good morning! The sun is cresting the horizon, birds are chirping, and you live at The Retreat at Mountain Brook! With feet on the floor you stretch that nice big “day welcoming” stretch, which is more a universal taunt for the day to “bring it” and then you’re off to your elegant Presley modeled bathroom. Deep elegant hardwoods caress your steps in the chic en-suite where you plant yourself in front of the mirror as the music begins its first crescendo. You throw your head back and belt it with Adele “…we could have had it all…” Five songs later you’re showered, dressed, and put together. As the music fades out in the background you grab your Jasmine Leather Simone Satchel, pause at the mirror next to the door to take one last check. “Let’s do this!” You leave your townhome in The Retreat’s Highland Village, and make a quick stop by the Club House for complementary coffee. As you’re preparing a cup at the coffee-house-quality, self-service station, you briefly chat with a group on their way to tennis lessons at the on premises championship-modeled tennis courts. Exiting Highland Village, you see a gentleman in the community garden clipping a bouquet, and a couple in the bark park next to Canterbury Village playing with their dogs. Waiting for the light to turn green, you ponder the morning thus far. Life has moments that overwhelm us; both good and bad times. This is most definitely a “good time.” The light turns green and you’re off to the university to give the first lecture of your career. After a solid first day on the job you want to reward yourself with a trip to Western Supermarket, in nearby Mountain Brook’s Crestline Village. Perusing one of the largest wine selections in the state, you grab your favorite wine and cheese and head home to enjoy. Once back on the Retreat at Mountain Brook premises you notice you’re a little low on fuel and drive over to the complementary charging station for a quick charge. “They’ve really thought of everything” you think to yourself. As you’re walking into the Club House, you run into neighbors you met this past weekend, and they’re going to The Retreat’s once-a-month signature event, Taco Tuesday. That’s when it hits you—you realize your wine would pair better with new friends!
Meet the Oak Street Garden Shop and Local Market
The time of year has come when we stash our winter clothes (for the most part) and opt for flip flops, shorts and loose T’s. Outfitted, we hit the streets to wherever our hearts lead and for a large percent of us it’s to the garden. The feel of the moist soil in your hands, or smooth edge of a flower petal as you gently plant, overwhelms and delights you. If that’s true for you, you share a passion with 35% of Americans who decide to grow food at home or in a community garden. We made our community garden with everyone in mind! If you’re looking to enjoy your own tomatoes or beans later this year, or perhaps you’re looking to cultivate flowers for the serenity it brings, we have enough space for your project. If you don’t know where to begin or what to buy we’d like to introduce you to Oak Street Garden Shop. Oak Street Garden Shop is a local garden shop located in Mountain Brook, just minutes from The Retreat. They’ve been located in Crestline Village within the city of Mountain Brook, Alabama, since 1990. They are known for offering unique annuals, perennials, tropical plants, and shrubs! They also offer custom outdoor planter combinations which just might be the best in Birmingham! If you fancy an indoor arrangement, they can do a mixture of houseplants, orchids, and other flowers too! Oak Street Garden Shop is open Monday to Saturday from 9AM-5:30PM, April through December. We encourage you to stop by to check out what kinds of garden goodies you can find there as you prepare for your planting season. Now that you know where to shop, we hope to see you in our community gardening area getting those thumbs green and pants dirty! Happy planting!
The Semi-minimalist’s Guide to Apartment Decorating, in 4 Simple Rules.
Here at The Retreat at Mountain Brook we find great pleasure in providing inspiration to help our residents turn their apartments into a home, and we are delighted to tag team this effort with a new friend. Sharleen Graybill is The Semi-Minimalist and she has graciously offered to share insight into apartment decorating from a simplified living perspective. Please share Sharleen’s wisdom and experience within your social circles as she continues to share her journey to minimalism in the hope of creating positive changes in the lives of others. The Simple Life. It seems that everywhere you look people are now obsessed with adorning their living space with apartment flair. I am happy to say that I have never had that problem. Oh no. I just would spend ridiculous amounts of money on clothes from Forever 21 that would result in an overflow of clothes coming out of my surprisingly huge walk-in closet. But hey, nobody’s perfect. I did say that I was a “semi-minimalist” right? I would say that apartment living helped me learn a few things about how to make to most of my living space. And now, I’m happy to say, my closet is the least of my worries (even though my closet is now smaller, ironically). “I loved living in an apartment.” –The Semi-Minimalist I feel that it inspired creativity and thinking a little outside the box. I also had some of the best adventures finding wonderful pieces for my place. These adventures resulted in one of a kind items that I still enjoy in my home today. One aspect of minimalism is that you find out who you are since you don’t have to please everyone else and follow every trend. Below are a few ways to stay true to yourself and develop your own unique retreat in your apartment. 1. Flea markets, antique stores, and consignment stores OH MY! This was the most fun experience for me and still is to this day. I seriously got the best deals on some really cool items that I still use in my home to this day. There is never a shortage of gently used/used items just waiting to be found at garage sales, craigslist, or community yard sales hosted on Facebook pages. I mean how cute is The Brass Bear? Keep an eye out for quality items at a lower-cost. 2. Accept Hand-me-downs. I still have some well-made Tupperware and silverware that my mom sent me when I was a poor Airman in the military. Not only did I have something to eat with and a place for the food I didn’t finish, but I also had something that reminding me of home. Not only did they add to my apartment’s unique vibe but these items added to the homey feel as well. Maybe there is a one of kind quilt that an aunt has made or even unique pieces of fired pottery from high school that is true to you and your story. While everything old or containing history might not be a winner, keeping an open mind just might surprise you as to what is. For example, I keep an old hymnal my mother gave me in my living room. Can you spot it? 3. Be a rule breaker and don’t always follow the fads. Since apartments are currently all the rage this can be a tough one to resist. There are plenty of stores that sell a plethora of items that are adorable for your apartment. I mean they do actually sell flamingo floaties that you can float in, with matching flamingo cozies to keep your drink cold in the comfort of your apartment using a kiddie pool. I mean that is a need really. And fun fact: floatie isn’t an actual word…yet! But honestly, how many books on cooking and records with beautiful covers does one really need? I try to focus on one item that is a multi-tasker; such as a one good sharp knife instead of a food processor, a garlic press, or a stainless steel mandolin. “I also try to find pieces that are true to me, and therefore timeless.” 4. Keep it simple. A minimalist apartment would not be complete without this mission statement. Always remember that less is more and life is about the journey and not about the things we own. And honestly, everyone has their own weakness. Find what yours is and just work on it a little bit every day. And that’s it. Now you should be well on your way to minimalism and a perfectly sweet and high-quality apartment right? Enjoy your journey and feel free to show us what you find along the way! Love, The Semi-minimalist About the Author. Blogger, amateur sewist, and inspiration chaser. Living out of my element in the Californian Mojave desert. Trusting God and finding joy in whatever state I find myself in by taking one day at a time, making the world a better place through small and lasting improvements by creating beauty wherever I go.
