Sweets for Your Sweetie this Valentine’s Day
From initial spark to hot flame, brightly burning fire to softly glowing embers, true love and romance is worth celebrating at all of its stages. That’s why The Retreat at Mountain Brook luxury apartment home community in Birmingham, Alabama, asked the *Idea Specialists™* for suggestions on making this Valentine’s Day a memorable one. Vive Le Romance! The first thing they said is that Chez Fonfon in the heart of Five Points South is always a good choice for marking a special occasion. With its upscale casual, bustling bistro style and offerings of classic French fare such as steak frites, sautéed trout with brown butter, and escargots—along with wines from the Loire, Rhône, and Languedoc—it’s as if you’ve been virtually transported to Paris, Lyon, or Nice. Oo-la-la! Fall In Love Under The Stars Next up: Couples are invited to fall in love under the stars atop Red Mountain while enjoying Birmingham’s most iconic view Friday, February 14, 2025, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. This promises to be a romantic evening like no other with delicious heavy hors d’ouevres, complimentary champagne served in a keepsake Vulcan glass, live acoustic music, and photo opportunities around beautifully lit Vulcan Park & Museum and the observation statue. (Adults only; tickets must be purchased online by 6 p.m. Wednesday, February 12.) It’s OK To Monkey Around This Valentine’s Day! Another way to celebrate Valentine’s Day in the Magic City is with a Frothy Monkey Frothy Love Dinner. At both the Birmingham and Homewood locations they’re gonna down the lights, change the tunes, and create the perfect ambiance to serve an exclusive three-course menu for two. While everything looks good, the Idea Specialists™ are mainly focused on dessert—a double chocolate flourless cake with tart cherry sauce! You can find out more here, and make your reservation for Thursday, Friday, or Saturday night (February 13-15). Other Ideas For other ideas about how to celebrate in the ‘ham, check out AllEvents. And The Knot has a fun list—95 Romantic, Unique and Spicy Valentine’s Day Ideas for Every Couple. Sweet Dreams Are Made of This And speaking of chocolate….. Oh, my, but did the Idea Specialists™ come through for The Retreat at Mountain Brook with suggestions on this front! They hit the jackpot when they found this Food Network post on best buys for Valentine’s Day. Favorites? First up is the Salts of the World Chocolate Collection; each of these chocolates celebrates a different country and features salt, ingredients, and a wildflower all native to that country. So cool! Then there’s the Belgian Chocolate Covered Mini Doughnut Bouquet. Flowers are nice, but could anything really beat a beautifully packaged bouquet of chocolate-covered mini doughnuts? Then, for the vegan Valentines out there, the Idea Specialists™ recommend that you go with the Berry Bouquet Vegan Chocolate Box from Compartés. It is packed with raspberries, blueberries, strawberries, goji berries, cranberries and cherries, all dipped in absurdly good vegan dark chocolate. Kids & Puppies The Idea Specialists™ also gave The Retreat at Mountain Brook team a cute suggestion on how to celebrate the little lovies in your life—a cute mini-waffle maker! You can make kid-sized waffles in a heart shape perfect for Valentine’s Day morning—or as a dessert treat with ice cream and hot fudge! (Pro Tip: Add a little pink or red food coloring to the batter for that extra flair.) And because they know that The Retreat at Mountain Brook is a very pet-friendly apartment community, complete with a dog park, the Idea Specialists™ made it a point to share some info on animal safety. Each year the experts at the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) see a rise in cases around February 14, many involving chocolate or lilies. Valentine’s Day can be as much fun for pets as it is for humans—as long as dangerous items are kept out of paws’ reach! * The Idea Specialists™ * The Idea Specialists™ is a group of design and inspiration professionals with a focus on communications for the luxury apartment home industry, as well as custom lifestyle planning and more.
Those Little Special Somethings
One Change To Make In Each Room To Make Your Life Better In 2025 Bedroom Magic The bright and airy bedrooms at The Retreat at Mountain Brook luxury apartment home community in Birmingham are just brimming with design potential! One way to maximize the natural light from their windows is with a large mirror to reflect that gorgeous Alabama sunshine and get your day off to a pleasant start. Like magic, it will make the already spacious rooms seem even larger! The *Idea Specialists™* love the idea of leaning an oversized arched mirror against a wall (no nail holes!!). From ornate to Midcentury Modern the styles abound, but you really can’t go wrong with classic black (available from Amazon). Bathroom Beautiful Tired of reaching for your toothpaste only to knock over your deodorant and lotion because your bathroom vanity has gotten so cluttered? It’s easy to get organized and beautify your surroundings with all of the container options available now, especially if you follow some of the tips in this House Beautiful piece! Some faves: Don’t double up! Buy cleaning supplies when you need them, instead of stockpiling. And keep them in a convenient caddy! Declutter once a season. Do you really wear the same lipstick in June that you do in November? No. So store stuff accordingly. And speaking of lipstick, check out this groovy rotating cosmetics display case! Kitchen Confidential You can instantly liven up your space, add warmth, and protect the floors in your kitchen by adding a colorful or patterned area rug or runner. The great thing about this change is that it’s almost the ultimate in temporary decoration—you can rotate rugs with the seasons without spending very much money so your culinary space stays fresh. (Like your vegetables, we hope!) Ruggable has unbeatable selections, easy-to-swap styles, and—best of all—their products are machine-washable! Good Housekeeping has everything you need to know before you buy in this post. Den Delights When it comes to choosing lamps for your den, the options can seem endless. Before you make a decision, think about how you’re using the various spaces in the room. Do you need task lighting for an area you’ve dedicated as a work space? A table lamp by the couch for reading? Once you know, then consider your color and style options. The Idea Specialists™ recently found this great combination floor lamp and end table. And, if you, too, are not a fan of visible cords, you can take your pick of colors with these affordable decorative covers. The Idea Specialists™ are huge fans of Mayer Lighting Showroom on Third Avenue South, a super-easy drive from The Retreat at Mountain Brook, and could spend just hours talking with their team about decorating options (including delightful lighting, of course!). And while you’re in the Avondale area, pop in to SAW’s Soul Kitchen for lunch! Balcony Bonus One of the great things about living at The Retreat at Mountain Brook is the option of having a sunroom or private balcony. Whichever you choose, one easy way to bring color and comfort to the space is by adding greenery with potted plants, hanging planters, or even faux plants for a touch of nature. Artificial plant bonus: No worries about watering or changes in the weather! The Idea Specialists™ recently used a luxe combo of pots of trailing variegated String Of Hearts from Pottery Barn and traditional ferns by House of Silk Flowers (from Bed Bath & Beyond) to soften corners and enliven a balcony. For other ideas, check out great tips on selecting faux plants from The Spruce. Community Calendar Looking to get out and about to shake off the winter blues? The Magic City area doesn’t ever disappoint. Check out these sites for all your options: – Bham Now – Birmingham365 – Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau * The Idea Specialists™ * The Idea Specialists™ is a group of design and inspiration professionals with a focus on communications for the luxury apartment home industry, as well as custom lifestyle planning and more.
Festive Holiday Cooking & Entertaining: Big Cheer for Clever Entertaining at the Retreat at Mountain Brook, Birmingham, AL
Who says you need to be a pro to host a holiday bash? With fun recipes and clever decorating tricks, even YOU can transform your home into a festive wonderland this holiday season. We asked the Idea Specialists© for their recommendations for high-impact low-effort entertaining and here is what they said… Let’s start with the food. Easy Recipes for the Star Host Glazed Maple Dijon Salmon Swap the classic roast for something sleek and simple. Brush salmon fillets with maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and a splash of soy sauce. Bake for 15 minutes and serve with pre-steamed green beans. It’s elegant, delicious, and practically effortless. Holiday Charcuterie Cups Skip the giant grazing boards and opt for individual charcuterie cups. Fill small glasses or paper cones with cheese cubes, nuts, cured meats, and festive touches like rosemary sprigs or cranberries. They’re portable, Instagram-worthy, and perfect for mingling. Mini Yule Log Brownies Bake brownie batter in a loaf pan, then slice and roll pieces into mini logs. Frost with chocolate ganache, dust with powdered sugar, and top with candy holly. These bite-sized treats are as show-stopping as they are easy to make. Décor That Wows in Small Spaces Twinkle with Lights: String fairy lights along bookshelves, doorframes, or around a mirror to create a warm, inviting glow. Bonus: they double as mood lighting. Mini Centerpieces: Fill mason jars with ornaments, cranberries, or pinecones. Top with a tea light for an affordable and chic decoration. Maximize Vertical Space: Hang wreaths or garlands on walls or doors to add holiday cheer without taking up floor space. Pro Tips for Stress-Free Hosting Make It Interactive: Let guests garnish their drinks with cranberries, citrus slices, or candy canes at a DIY holiday drink station. Or serve up a pitcher of White Chocolate Christmas Margaritas and garnish with cranberries and rosemary. Here’s the recipe: https://charmingcocktails.com/white-christmas-margarita/ Prep Ahead: Choose recipes that can be made the day before so you can enjoy the party too. Small Touches, Big Impact: Personalized place cards or festive napkins add an elegant touch without much effort. Apartment living doesn’t mean you have to downsize your holiday dreams. With these easy recipes, clever décor ideas, and hosting hacks, you’ll be the toast of the season. So, crank up the holiday playlist, pour some spiced cider, and get ready to entertain like a pro! Enjoy Michael Bublé – Best Christmas Songs (Yule Log Fireplace)
Let’s Talk Turkey …And Dressing!
The Idea Specialists™ at The Retreat at Mountain Brook in Birmingham, Alabama, are already getting excited about Thanksgiving! They’re once again having the great “stuffing vs dressing” debate, researching all things cranberry, and making sure they’ve signed up for the annual Turkey Trot. And this year, they’re also going to try something new to them—tandoori turkey! Veterans Day But before Thanksgiving comes Veterans Day, which honors U.S. veterans for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good. Did you know that Birmingham is home to the country’s original National Veterans Day Parade, the oldest in the country? The 77th annual parade will begin, rain or shine, at 1 p.m. Tuesday, November 11, 2024, on 18th Street and 9th Avenue North and end at 19th Street and 10th Avenue North, at the official reviewing stand. More Upcoming Events After Veterans Day there is plenty of fun to be had in and around the Magic City, especially at the recently renovated StarDome Comedy Club. Reality TV personality Shannon Ford, also known for the popular Probably a Podcast, will take the main stage Thursday, November 21, 2024, at 7:30 p.m. (doors open at 6:30 p.m.). And no holiday season in Birmingham would be complete without experiencing the NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet at the historic Alabama Theatre. This beloved tradition that brings Tchaikovsky’s timeless score to life with the magic of sugar plums and festive wonder is set for Saturday, November 16, 2024, at 1 p.m. The Thanksgiving Table So, dressing or stuffing? What’s the difference? The Retreat at Mountain Brook Idea Specialists™ will let you in on a secret—they actually like both! And there’s no way they’re going to try to settle the great debate about what the difference is…..they’ll let certain culinary experts do that. Instead, knowing full well that everybody thinks their grandma’s recipe is best, they’re sharing two they like: Southern Living’s Cornbread Dressing and Food & Wine’s Mushroom-and-Chestnut Stuffing with Giblets. Either would go great with tandoori turkey, a culinary delight that combines the best of East Indian flavors with that perennial American favorite roasted bird. Cranberry Creations Another perennial American favorite at Thanksgiving is cranberry sauce. Some people swear by homemade, others prefer it right out of that familiar comforting can. Another popular spin is cranberry chutney, a sweet, spicy, and tangy blend of cranberries cooked with a mix of spices like cumin, coriander, and a touch of cayenne. Yep, you guessed it—it pairs beautifully with tandoori turkey! This is also the time to try out some different cranberry juice mock- and cocktails while gathering in your luxe Retreat at Mountain Brook apartment home. The Ginger Shandy (another name for a Cranberry Mule) is a perfect mix of sweet, zest, and effervescence that nicely balances out the heavy holiday foods (we’re looking at you, macaroni and cheese, and sweet potato casserole!). Another Birmingham Tradition Another November tradition in Birmingham is The Sam Lapidus Montclair Run. The event started back in 1976 as The Montclair Run, and quickly grew in popularity. Now boasting some 1,500 runners of all ages and abilities and certified by USA Track & Field, the 5K/10K and one-mile fun runs raise funds for the Levite Jewish Community Center (LJCC) and the Alabama Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders. Sign the whole family up to make special holiday memories Thursday, November 28, 2024. Connect with the community, enjoy the outdoors, and kick off Thanksgiving with a sense of accomplishment and camaraderie. The race route ( which begins and ends at the LJCC) closes at 8 a.m., so plan accordingly!
Live & Local, Fall & Football!
With fall comes football, and with football comes tailgating! Whether you’re going to an NFL game or watching ESPN and rooting for your college alma mater out of the weather and in the sumptuous comfort of your apartment home at The Retreat at Mountain Brook in Birmingham, Alabama, you’ll want to make sure to have plenty of tasty treats on hand to satisfy family and friends. And yourself, of course! But before we get to dishing the goods on tailgate goodies, let’s talk about having some non-football fun. (It can be done, we promise! LOL) LOOKING AHEAD TO SOMETHING LIVE & LOCAL For fans of cosplay, making the scene at Alabama Comic Con Saturday-Sunday September 28-29, 2024, at the BJCC is a must. Pam Grier is just one of numerous fan favorites who will be a part of this family-friendly extravaganza (kids 10 and under get in free!). And if you’re ready for some live music, you have two wildly different options coming up next month, so go ahead and mark your calendars now for Furnace Fest 2024 Friday-Sunday October 4-6, 2024, and the Hymn Concert with Act of Congress Sunday, October 27, 2024. The Fest calls Sloss Furnaces home, because what better setting for hardcore and heavy metal? Mountain Brook Baptist Church is able to offer free admission to the Reformation Day concert at the Lyric Theatre, which will showcase songs from the newest album by Act of Congress, thanks to a grant from the William E. and Wylodine H. Hull Memorial Fund. NOW LET’S TALK ABOUT POPULAR GAMEDAY GOODIES Google for gameday goodies and you’ll find that pickles are really hot this fall—especially when you serve them cold in this Duke’s Mayo Pickle Dip. The Retreat at Mountain Brook Idea Specialists™ love the idea of putting this on burgers and hot dogs, using it for a different kind of chicken nugget sauce, and of course just eating it on some chips or crackers. Check out more sweet and sour food for thought in Delish’s 53 Pickle Recipes You Never Knew You Needed. The Idea Specialists™ know that you can never go wrong with this particular Southern Living Fire Cracker recipe. But they want to up their cracker game this fall, so they’re going to give the Bacon Bow Tie Crackers recipe a go, too. COOLER CONCOCTIONS Beers, spritzers, soft drinks, and water are all cooler staples. Treat your guests to a little something extra with a special tailgate cocktail like the Lunchbox, which you can make ahead in a large lidded pitcher or non-glass beverage dispenser for easy transport. If the combo of orange juice, beer, Southern Comfort, and amaretto doesn’t sound like your cup of fun, Mix that Drink has several more fun recipes to choose from! BBQ FOR YOU No time to get in your gourmet Retreat at Mountain Brook kitchen before the next get-together? No worries! Birmingham is blessed with some of the best barbecue joints on the planet, from Dreamland to Saw’s with Full Moon, Jim ’N Nick’s, Moe’s, and so many more in between. Whether you’re craving red sauce and ribs to go with your white bread, want a pulled pork sandwich Bama style, or can’t get enough of smoked turkey and white BBQ sauce, you’re covered in the Magic City. Don’t forget the chocolate chip cookies! Yummers! GAMEDAY MUST-HAVE The Retreat at Mountain Brook Idea Specialists™ know from experience that while it’s all fun and games on the field, collegiate and pro stadiums don’t play around when it comes to fan do’s and don’ts. One of the biggies is making sure that any bag you take in with you meets guidelines. These days you can go to Amazon and spend about as much or as little as you’d like on a bag. The ET website has the skinny; the Specialists are going with the imminently practical LOXOMU crossbody bag. (But this acrylic WJCD bag that comes in SO many colors and has a removable chain looks like so much fun! Maybe both?) Go Team!
Spend the Last Days of Your Summer Staycationing in Luxury at The Retreat at Mountain Brook—and Exploring Birmingham!
Before you get geared up for the return of back-to-school and other fall routines, make plans to spend the last days of your summer staycationing in luxury at The Retreat at Mountain Brook and taking a new look at what Birmingham, Alabama, has to offer! The American Automobile Association (AAA) says the key to a good staycation is remembering that you’re on vacation, which can be hard to do when you’re staying home. They offer a few tips for planning: Stop daily chores and routines. Focus on activities you wouldn’t normally do. Select activities that relax you and bring you joy. Have a plan, even if it’s a loose one. Set a budget and stick to it. Of course the loose plan the Retreat at Mountain Brook Idea Specialists™ have come up with involves hanging (with some bottles of Aperol Spritz) at the convenient community pool. And not only is it convenient, it and the sun deck and all of the landscaping and common areas are always so gorgeous and clean! We owe this to the exceptional work of our service team members, which is why we’re going the extra mile to honor them by declaring August as Maintenance Appreciation Month. Both AAA and Apartments.com have some great ideas about ways to spend your staycation. One suggestion is to cook a fancy meal. And sure, that’s always easy to do in your well-appointed apartment home kitchen, but the Idea Specialists™ have been amusing themselves lately by watching TikToks on private chefs in the Hamptons, which gave them an idea…… YOUR OWN PERSONAL CHEF Why not hire a personal chef for your staycation? Check out The Magic City Chefs! After a consultation they create your custom meal offsite and deliver it freshly packaged and labeled. Want to take things to the next level? Book them for a dinner party and watch them work their culinary (and clean-up!) magic in your own kitchen. And if you’re going to enjoy lovely meals, why not splurge a little and get some lovely new linens to freshen up your dining table? ELLE Decor has turned the Retreat at Mountain Brook Idea Specialists™ on to the Ridhi brand of boho-inspired linens (handmade!) in all manner of summery patterns and prints. According to the site, “You can score a set of printed cloth napkins for just $26, tablecloths starting at $53, and placemats for under $40 (all on Amazon), allowing you to create the colorful tablescape of your dreams without breaking the bank.” FAMILY SUMMER MOVIE MARATHON Another good idea for an August staycation is a family summer movie marathon. A google search (the Idea Specialists™ do so love to search!) shows that the Pioneer Woman has a popular post up: “30 Best Summer Movies for Kids That Are Almost as Fun as Being Outside” One of those is that all-time classic The Karate Kid, starring Ralph Macchio. It doesn’t matter whether your gang is caught up on all six series of Cobra Kai or not, it’s still worth the watch—or re-watch! EXPLORING BIRMINGHAM The Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau produces an excellent travel guide, which includes information on many of the wonderful FREE local attractions the city has to offer, including the historic Negro Southern League Museum, Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark, and the beautiful Birmingham Botanical Gardens. There’s something for everybody to enjoy! And, if you haven’t been already, now might be the time to spend some time at the CityWalk BHAM Skate Park—58,000 square feet of skateable area, including a pump track, street course, two large bowls as well as beginner bowls, and quarter pipe areas. (No admission fee, but a waiver is required.) The Retreat at Mountain Brook is a very pet-friendly community, so the Idea Specialists™ of course want to spend some time at the CityWalk Barkery. BACK TO SCHOOL School seems to start earlier and earlier every year, doesn’t it? These days getting the kids ready to go back to class means familiarizing yourself with their different schools’ websites. The Retreat at Mountain Brook is close to both public and private schools: Grantswood Community School Irondale Community School Irondale Middle School Shades Valley High School Jefferson County International Baccalaureate School (located at Shades Valley High School) Highlands School The Altamont School Francis Xavier Catholic School Getting ready also means scoping out those sometimes wicked drop-off and pick-up lines, and making sure everybody has got the supplies they need. And want. According to the National Retail Federation’s Annual 2024 Back-to-School Survey, families with children in elementary through high school plan to spend an average of $874.68 on clothing, shoes, school supplies, and electronics. The NRF’s survey said they expect $38.8 billion to be spent on school supplies in the United States—the second-highest figure on record. Hot items for teens for fall semester 2024 are North Face backpacks and Vera Bradley lunch bags. (Students at schools that require clear backpacks can still have some fun with colors if they go with a Vorspack.) HIGH SCHOOL DOESN’T HAVE TO BE HORRIBLE Got somebody about to start their freshman year of high school? Here’s some guidance for them, from a teenage neighbor of one of the Idea Specialists™. “For classes keep on track with your work and make sure you have all the supplies you need. Don’t be afraid to ask questions if you don’t know something. Most people are nice and will talk to you if you talk to them. For things to wear be casual, don’t dress up crazy for school. Lastly, keep in mind that learning is important but that’s not what school is all about, have fun and make friends.” Oh, and: “With girls Nike, Lululemon, and Free People are popular clothing brands.” Just knew you’d want to know that!
Fireworks & Picnics—The Magic City is Exploding with Opportunities for Fourth of July Fun!
With America’s Independence Day and National Picnic Month both on the calendar, opportunities abound for members of The Retreat at Mountain Brook community to enjoy food, fun, and fireworks this July in Birmingham—Alabama’s Magic City! Celebrate The Fourth With Thunder On The Mountain Plan to celebrate our great nation with your family and friends by taking in the state’s largest Fourth of July fireworks show, Thunder on the Mountain, presented by the Vulcan Park Foundation. At approximately 9 p.m., Thursday, July 4, 2024, Pyro Shows of Alabama will release the first of more than 2,500 shells and effects, lighting up Vulcan—the city’s iconic statue—and the sky above Red Mountain. Note: Vulcan Park and Museum will close at 6 p.m. on July 4 to prepare for the show, so you can’t watch the pyrotechnics from there. But wherever your favorite viewing spot is for this annual tradition, you can listen to the accompanying soundtrack exclusively on iHeart media radio stations: [et_row class=”row”][et_col class=”col-sm-6″] 102.5 The Bull 103.1 The Vulcan 103.7 The Q 104.1 The Beat B106.5 [/et_col][et_col class=”col-sm-6″] 105 Hallelujah FM Magic 96.5 News Radio 960 WERC News Radio 105.5 WERC La Jefa 98.3. [/et_col][/et_row] National Picnic Month Sometimes summer sunshine just screams out for a picnic, which is probably why the American Bakers Association picked July as National Picnic Month way back in 1952. The Retreat at Mountain Brook Idea Specialists™ did a little research and found that the word picnic comes from the French word piquenique, which eventually came to refer to mid-18th-century al fresco French dining. In today’s world, a picnic can be something as simple as sandwiches and soft drinks on a sun deck by one of the three sparkling Retreat at Mountain Brook saltwater pools, or as over the top as an Insta-worthy luxury picnic delivered by companies specializing in creating memorable experiences. Locally, Birmingham Picnic Company offers curated packages for unforgettable gatherings. Picnicking In Birmingham There are plenty of places for you to plan your own picnic in Birmingham, including the Birmingham Botanical Gardens and Railroad Park, both conveniently located to The Retreat at Mountain Brook. Birmingham Now offers more ideas, and some suggestions of goodies for your picnic basket. Grilling & Chilling Of course the Idea Specialists™ are going to have some suggestions for you when it comes to picnic-appropriate food and drink! First, though, check out this awesome Picnic Time combo BBQ Kit Cooler from Target they found. In addition to its large capacity for ice and drinks, it features an eight-piece stainless steel grill set that includes everything from tongs and a spatula to a cutting board and corkscrew. And because of its shoulder strap, it’s imminently portable—thus perfect for a picnic at the community poolside barbecue area. Sweet! Before you head out to wherever you’re going to spread your picnic blanket, whip up a to-go pitcher of this luscious Summertime Rosé Tequila Sangria. And depending on what you’re in the mood for, maybe one—or four, or a lot more—of these Pioneer Woman picnic foods. Cowboy caviar, loaded potato salad, chef’s salad on a stick, and blueberry bars all will go with whatever you decide to grill—ribs, chicken, burgers, YUM. Summer’s Bounty The Retreat at Mountain Brook Idea Specialists™ will definitely be heading back to the Farmers Market at Pepper Place for some more homegrown tomatoes now that they’ve seen this Garden & Gun article for delicious recipes for everything from tomato pudding to cracker salad. They’ll be taking that salad, and some green tomato chowchow, on their picnic, for sure. And Speaking Of Garden & Gun If you’re not already familiar with this quintessentially Southern magazine, check out their Instagram feed to get a feel for what it’s all about. And maybe have a little fun with their “You Might Be a Southerner If…..” quiz. Enjoy!
June Brings the Joy of Father’s Day & Awareness of Alzheimer’s to the Retreat at Mountain Brook
June brings the joys of Father’s Day and the summer solstice to The Retreat at Mountain Brook in Birmingham, Alabama, along with the opportunity to join with others across the country in a show of support of Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month with purple ribbons and purple clothes. In fact, a google search about initiatives of the Alzheimer’s Association reveals that one of them—The Longest Day®—encourages people to “outshine the darkness” of Alzheimer’s disease with a fundraiser of their own choice in connection with the summer solstice, the day of the year with the most light. This year that will be Thursday, June 20. On June 13, the Retreat at Mountain Brook team is excited to announce a bingo night benefiting the Alzheimer’s Association. Each entry is five dollars, with no limit to how many cards you can purchase. We will have refreshments and door prizes and hope everyone can attend. All proceeds will be donated to the Alzheimer’s association. Watch for details. Understanding Alzheimer’s & Dementia Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of dementia, a general term for memory loss and other cognitive abilities serious enough to interfere with daily life, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. It is not considered a normal part of aging, but, rather, a progressive disease. There is no known cure. Alzheimer’s of Central Alabama provides resources and support to all those impacted by the disease. Sharing Stories Sometimes personal stories can help us understand a medical condition that hasn’t affected us directly. The Retreat at Mountain Brook Idea Specialists™ were deeply moved by the 2014 movie Still Alice. Starring Julianne Moore, who won a Best Actress Oscar for her portrayal of a linguistics professor with a rare hereditary form of early-onset Alzheimer’s, it’s something you can watch in the privacy and comfort of your luxury apartment home. Another great option for Father’s Day—Sunday, June 16, 2024—is to provide him with the experience of a lifetime. Virgin Experience Gifts has something for every type of dad—foodie, gearhead, adventurer, golfer—you name it! Live, Local & Loud Something else fun to do to celebrate Dad, or the start of summer, would be to take advantage of some of the Magic City’s great live music scene. Songkick has a great rundown of pretty much everything scheduled for the rest of the year. It’s hard to pick just one to highlight, but aren’t most dads fans of Drive-By Truckers? They’ll be at Iron City Saturday, June 15, 2024, playing their ambitious 2001 double album in full. Wow. The U.S. Open It just wouldn’t be a good June blog without a mention of the U.S. Open Golf Championship, being played at No. 2 Pinehurst outside of Raleigh, North Carolina, June 13-16, 2024. It’s always a memorable experience, whether you attend or watch it with a group of friends at The Retreat at Mountain Brook Clubhouse. Father’s Day Fun Sometimes socks just won’t cut it when it comes delighting Dad on his day. The Idea Specialists™ know that they can’t go wrong with the father figures in their lives by giving the gift of a good bourbon, and this year the Master of Malt blog has done a great list of the Top 10 everyone needs to try in 2024. Maker’s Mark Cask Strength Whisky is probably a safe bet, but they’re really intrigued by the Charcoal & Cornmeal & Rickhouses & a Decade. (Wouldn’t you be? LOL)
Birmingham’s Retreat at Mountain Brook Apartment Community is Marking Many May Occasions—Especially National Pet Month!
Graduations, Mother’s Day, Memorial Day—there are so many important occasions in May that you might forget to celebrate something just for fun—National Pet Month! It’s a favorite of ours here at The Retreat at Mountain Brook in Birmingham, Alabama, because we are a seriously pet-friendly high-end apartment home community, complete with a large fenced pet park. Love Is A 4-Legged Word Our Idea Specialists™, who consider cat hair to be a fashion accessory and never met a dog they didn’t like, spent a little time on the old Google looking for some fun ways to treat themselves and their fur babies. While on the search, they learned that National Pet Week is also a thing, always observed during the first full week of May. It’s sponsored by the Auxiliary to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) to foster responsible pet ownership, recognize the human-animal bond, and increase public awareness of veterinary medicine. Could the theme for 2024 be any better? It’s “Love is 4-legged word.” Hugs and pets all around!! And biscuits, dog biscuits, too! From Birmingham’s own Blind Dog Biscuit. You can’t go wrong ordering their special “Bee Ham Biscuits” (country ham and honey). Gifts For Grads & Moms The Retreat at Mountain Brook Idea Specialists™ found the perfect combo of pet love and a present for your favorite moms and grads in a custom watercolor painting on canvas. Just upload a photo of your four-legged friend and Texture of Dreams will do the rest! While the traditional gift of cash to graduates might seem boring, it doesn’t have to be if you put it in a pop-up bouncing gift box filled with confetti. Fun!! The Idea Specialists™, some moms themselves, think these packages from Spoonful of Comfort will help the strong feminine presence in your life have a “soup-er” Mother’s Day! (They also understand that you might just be tempted to treat yourself to of their yummy goodies to enjoy in your comfy clothes in the privacy of your own luxury apartment.) Food & Flowers You can’t go wrong with taking Mom out for a special meal on her special day, especially if you’ve given her some flowers first. And the brunch at Trattoria ZaZa is extra-special, with their signature breakfast pasta and pizza, polenta, and cherry rosemary scones. Mimosas are a must! The Idea Specialists™ know it might seem a little early in the month to be planning your friends and family Memorial Day gathering by one of The Retreat at Mountain Brook’s three gorgeous saltwater pools, but advance planning is never a bad thing! This year, they’re for sure including grilled peach caprese salad on the menu, with the freshest of peaches and tomatoes from The Farmers Market at Pepper Place. There are lots of recipes out there for this spring and summer classic, but our group is particularly fond of this one at How Sweet Eats (and not just because food personality and cookbook author Jessica Merchant says glitter is her middle name, LOL). Also, be sure to check out this guide to Alabama’s peach season, and give SoulGrown a follow if you haven’t already. They’re always posting great stuff! We’re also fond of a nice sangria by the pool, and Southern Living has a great piece on which wines to use for it. If you don’t already have a favorite way to make yours, check out this white sangria on Dinners, Dishes & Desserts. Honoring Their Memory Watching the National Memorial Day Concert, featuring the National Symphony Orchestra with guest performers, is an annual tradition for the Idea Specialists™. The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the Joint Chiefs of Staff also participate in the concert, offering their leadership perspective on the value and honor of military service and acknowledging the challenges that veterans and their families face. Always broadcast and streamed by PBS the Sunday night before Memorial Day, the concert honors our country’s veterans, servicemen and women, and military families, and all those who died in America’s wars. Its goal is to unite the country in remembrance and appreciation of those who gave their lives for our nation and serves those who are grieving through the mission put forward by Abraham Lincoln in his second inaugural address, “Let us strive on to finish the work we are in; to bind up the nation’s wounds; to care for him who shall have borne the battle, and for his widow, and his orphan.”
Experience Sumptuous Living in Birmingham: Look and Lease at The Retreat at Mountain Brook
Are you seeking unparalleled quality and convenience in an apartment home in Birmingham, Alabama? Look no further than The Retreat at Mountain Brook at 1600 Sharpsburg Circle, Birmingham, AL 35213, where exceptional apartment living meets southern charm. Our lovely community, nestled against the City of Mountain Brook, offers a unique blend of modern amenities, serene surroundings, and upscale living. And now, for a limited time only, we’re thrilled to offer an exclusive “Look and Lease Promotion” that adds even more value to your apartment search. Look and Lease Within 24 Hours Promotion: Your Ticket to a Dream Kitchen Imagine entering a kitchen adorned with Drew Barrymore’s “Beautiful” collection – a chic ensemble of kitchen accessories designed to elevate your culinary experience. When you take advantage of our “Look and Lease Promotion,” you’ll receive an entire kitchen collection valued at $500. From a sleek knife set to a versatile air fryer and chic coffee maker to essential pots and pans set, along with a toaster and mixer, this collection has everything you need to transform your cooking space into a haven of sophistication and functionality. [rl_gallery id=”3463″] Discover Stylish Living in Birmingham and Mountain Brook At The Retreat at Mountain Brook, we take pride in offering the finest in apartment living. Whether you’re searching for an apartment in Birmingham, Alabama, or specifically in the prestigious Mountain Brook area, our community stands out as a premier destination for discerning individuals and families. Our extra-spacious apartments boast an array of meticulously designed floor plans, like the Easton or Sage homes, to suit your lifestyle preferences. These plans feature upscale finishes, and modern conveniences. From cozy one-bedroom retreats to expansive three-bedroom apartments and townhouses, each home exudes comfort and style. Amenities That Define Elevated Living Indulge in an elevated lifestyle with our exceptional community amenities and features. From the moment you step onto our meticulously landscaped grounds, you’ll be greeted by a sense of tranquility and sophistication. Enjoy a refreshing dip in our resort-style pool, stay active at our state-of-the-art 24-hour fitness centers, or unwind with friends and neighbors at one of our stylish clubhouses. Explore the natural beauty surrounding the Retreat at Mountain Brook with nearby scenic walking trails, poolside grilling, and outdoor gathering spaces. With conveniences like on-site maintenance and a pet-friendly environment, we’ve thoughtfully crafted every detail to enhance your living experience. Claim Your Dream Home Today Don’t miss out on this exclusive opportunity to elevate your apartment living experience with our “Look and Lease” promotion, which is available for select apartment homes for a limited time. Take the first step towards an apartment home you’ll love, an ensemble of kitchen accessories designed to refine your culinary experience, and carefree living at The Retreat at Mountain Brook. Contact us today to schedule a tour and secure your new home in Birmingham, AL, or Mountain Brook, AL. Experience living at The Retreat at Mountain Brook, where Southern Charm Meets a Modern Vibe.
