The Retreat at Mountain Brook Fitness Centers — Fantastic Resources For Birmingham’s Busy Professionals
The Retreat at Mountain Brook’s two 24-hour fitness centers are fantastic resources for the busy residents of this luxurious Birmingham, Alabama, apartment community. And what better time to take advantage of them than now, when you’re returning to your routine—or starting a new one—after the winter holidays? The centers feature a variety of multi-function machines, resistance bands, rowing machine, wide range of weights, and treadmills, ellipticals, and bikes. No need to pay extra for a gym membership when you can take advantage of onsite Inspire Fitness equipment, right? The Idea Specialists™ at The Retreat at Mountain Brook are also making more time in their schedules for health and fitness, and want to share some resources and ideas with you! New Year, New App? Maybe all you need to stay motivated is that weekly Fitbit report on your step count, and/or you’re perfectly satisfied with the fat-burning feedback you get from your Apple watch. Or, maybe you’re in the market for a new app, one that provides target area-specific workouts, or effective full-body workouts that can be done in as few as 5 to 30 minutes? Or one that you can use to change your approach to eating, or help you to begin a meditation practice? The Idea Specialists™ recommend Daily Workout Apps—it’s like having your own personal trainer, they say. They also found this great list of apps on Verywell Fit, an award-winning resource for credible and up-to-date information on all nutrition and exercise topics: Best Fitness Apps to Download Work Your Body & Your Brain Verywell Fit also has put together an excellent list of podcasts you can listen to while you’re exercising: The 31 Best Fitness Podcasts to Listen to Right Now After checking it out, The Idea Specialists™ are now really into Mind Pump, an online radio show/podcast that describes itself as being “dedicated to providing truthful fitness and health information.” They’re also fans of Half Size Me, a weekly show that focuses on sustainable weight loss. Its host, Heather Robertson, lost 170 pounds—and has kept it off. Running Buddies If 2022 is the year you’re planning to lace up your running shoes and hit the streets, then you might want to join the Birmingham Track Club, a non-profit organization of the Road Runners Club of America that encourages running/walking participation of all individuals regardless of distance or pace. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced runner, joining the BTC is a great way to meet like-minded people—on training runs and at social events—and stay informed of running events in the area. Hit The Trails One of the great things about living at The Retreat at Mountain Brook is how close it is to so many great hiking trails, including Ruffner Mountain and Red Mountain Park. The Birmingham Track Club website offers a ton of information on trail running that is also very useful for those who would rather take a hike. Alabama Recreation Trails is another good resource for hikers, and you can search for trail groups if you want to enjoy the great outdoors in the company of others. Rest & Recovery Whatever fitness activity you choose, The Idea Specialists™ want to remind you not to forget to devote time rest and recovery, and that includes consuming the right nutrients after you exercise. Healthline explains that after you engage in physical activity, your body tries to rebuild its glycogen stores, as well as repair and regrow muscle proteins. It’s especially important to eat carbs and protein after your, they say, because doing so helps your body: decrease muscle protein breakdown increase muscle protein synthesis (growth) restore glycogen stores enhance recovery Have a glass of chocolate milk and some peanut butter on rice crackers as a quick snack, or cottage cheese and fruits. If you’ve got more time, whip up an omelet with avocado spread on whole grain toast, or make a protein shake and drink it and eat a banana. Whatever you do, stay hydrated! While water is usually your best bet, sometimes an electrolyte drink is the way to go. Relaxation Hydration is also very important if massage is part of your health and fitness regimen. Drink water both before and after your session, whether you’re getting a deep tissue massage for relaxation and stress relief at Life Touch Massage, Red Mountain Therapeutic Massage or one for pain relief at Birmingham Wellness Massage. The experts at WebMD say your massage therapist will thank you if you drink water before you stretch out on the table because your muscles will be more soft and supple, which makes it easier for your practitioner to manipulate tender tissue. And, this body work releases substances you should flush out afterward, something that’s extra important if you get any type of heavy-duty massage. Happy New Year, Happy New You!
Candles, Confections & Community — Residents of the Retreat at Mountain Brook Celebrate the Winter Holidays
Christmas and Kwanzaa, Hanukkah and Las Posadas – there are many winter holidays, and the diverse residents of luxurious apartment community The Retreat at Mountain Brook in Birmingham, Alabama, celebrate them all! Whether you’re planning to drink hot chocolate while nestled on your couch watching Christmas movies or attend an Alabama Ballet performance of George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker (December 17-19 and 21-23, 2021), sweetness and light are always a part of the season. And not just in the form of love of our families and friends. Candles and confections have historically played leading roles in almost all holiday decorations, rituals, and gatherings. Hanukkah Hanukkah is celebrated to commemorate and publicize the miracle of a one-day supply of oil lasting eight days and eight nights after the Jewish people reclaimed the Holy Temple in Jerusalem from the Greeks and marked their victory with the burning of the Hanukkah menorah (candelabrum). This year, the traditional period began early, on the night of Sunday, November 28, 2021. In Birmingham, the Grand Menorah Lighting at The Summit took place in Saks Plaza, complete with a stilt walker—and latkes and sufganiyot (jelly donuts), of course! The event was a collaborative project of the Levite Jewish Community Center, Chabad of Alabama, the Birmingham Jewish Foundation-Karl and Gladys LJCC Fund, and the Birmingham Jewish Federation. To mark the last night of Hanukkah and “share the light” with the community, Chabad of Alabama is having a menorah parade Sunday, December 5, 2021. Cars will line up at the organization’s location at 3040 Overton Road in Mountain Brook, Alabama, at 4:45 p.m., and the parade will begin at 5:15 p.m. Check out Bhm Now’s great piece on Hanukkah in Birmingham 2021 for info on where to find some sufganiyot for yourself, and about the Wacky Lights Tour, which will begin Thursday, December 9, and include the Chanukah House on Altamont Road. Las Posadas According to the Franciscan Media publication St. Anthony Messenger, “The roots of Las Posadas stretch deeply into Latin culture. It originated in Spain, but it’s been a yearly celebration throughout Mexico for over 400 years. The tradition commemorates Mary and Joseph’s difficult journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem in search of a warm place to stay the night. (Posadas is Spanish for “lodgings” or “accommodations.”) Beginning on December 16 and ending nine days later, on December 24, Las Posadas commemorates the nine months of Mary’s pregnancy. Each night, one family agrees to house the pilgrims. And so it begins: At dusk, a procession of the faithful takes to the streets with children often dressed as angels and shepherds. Religious figures, images, and lighted candles are a part of the festivities. The group representing the Holy Family stands outside a series of houses, singing songs, asking for lodging. They are refused time and again until the group reaches the designated house. Finally, the travelers are permitted to enter. Prayer and song continue in the home, and festive foods are shared. The evening ends with a piñata in the shape of star.” The piñata of course includes candy! Here are some ideas from MamaLatinaTips.com on how to celebrate the holiday in your elegant home at The Retreat at Mountain Brook, including recipes for Mexican hot chocolate and traditional Mexican Christmas punch. Kwanzaa During the week of Kwanzaa, families and communities come together in feasting, honoring the ancestors, affirming the bonds between them, and in celebration of African and African American culture. Each day they light a candle in the Kinara, a seven-branched holder, to highlight the principle of that day and to breathe meaning into the principles with various activities, such as reciting the sayings or writings of great black thinkers and writers, reciting original poetry, African drumming, and sharing a meal of African diaspora-inspired foods. The seven principles of Kwanzaa/Nguzo Saba (in both English and Kiswahili) are unity/umoja, self-determination/ kujichagulia, collective work and responsibility/ujima, cooperative economics/ujamaa, purpose/nia, creativity/kuumba, and faith/Imani. The colors of the candles are black, red, and green, representing the people, the noble blood that unites all people of African ancestry, and green for the rich land of Africa. This year, Birmingham’s Studio 2500 will kick off Kwanzaa with a sale in its fine art gallery at 2500 Sixth Avenue North Sunday, December 26, 2021, at 3 p.m. The opening exhibit will include hors d’oeuvres and music. Christmas Traditions The Christian tradition of celebrating Advent also is already underway; it began the fourth Sunday before Christmas, which in 2021 was Sunday, November 28. It will end Friday, December 24. During these four weeks, an Advent wreath adorned with five candles is traditionally used to symbolize different spiritual aspects of getting ready for the Christmas Day birth of Jesus Christ. The three Advent candle colors—purple, pink, and white—symbolically represent the spiritual preparation that believers undergo to prepare their hearts for the birth (or coming) of the Lord, Jesus Christ, according to Learn Religions. Many people delight in Advent calendars, and what could be more special than one crafted right here in Alabama? The lovely folks from Stone Hollow Farmstead created a very special calendar for 2021 exclusively for Food52, and The Retreat at Mountain Brook Idea Specialists™ are very excited about it! Jams, jellies, pickles—and botanical drinking vinegars? Wow! And the packaging itself is just so beautiful. Even though Advent is already underway, it’s certainly not too late to order one of these! And after you’ve done that, go by and check out their brick-and-mortar store FarmStand by Stone Hollow Farmstead, in Birmingham at 2825 Second Avenue South. Wrapping Up What’s a blog about the winter holidays without a few gift-giving ideas? In keeping with our theme, let’s wrap up with a couple of candle suggestions. If you want to gift someone an experience, the Retreat at Mountain Brook Idea Specialists suggest taking them to see a performances of Ursula Smith’s The Brown Sugar Nutcracker: Maskuerade Edition (Saturday, December 18, 2021, at 7 p.m., and Sunday, December 19, at 4p.m., at the Dorothy Jemison Day
The Retreat at Mountain Brook Turning Fountain Pink in Support of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Resources At UAB, St. Vincent’s Bruno Cancer Center & More, Pink Up The Pace 5K To Benefit Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama The Retreat at Mountain Brook luxury apartment complex in Birmingham, Alabama, is joining the fight against cancer by promoting National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NCBAM) this October, turning its fountain pink and sharing news and information with residents of the upscale apartment complex and surrounding community. Events & Efforts Fundraising events and awareness for breast cancer research seem to take place year-round throughout Greater Metro Birmingham thanks to the area’s strong medical community, many of whose members call the Retreat at Mount Brook home. One that is always fun is the now-Fourth Annual Pink Up The Pace 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run put on by the Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama (BCRFA) to raise funds and awareness for the local, life-saving research being done at the O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center at UAB. The in-person run will take place Sunday, November 7, 2021, beginning at 2 p.m. at Crestline Field on Vine Street; the virtual distance challenge is going on through October until November 6. And speaking of fun, as reported by CBS 42, Birmingham Fire & Rescue has a special pink truck named “Corrine” that is serving the community and spreading awareness about both breast cancer and fire safety and prevention throughout the month of October. O’Neal Cancer Center At UAB With community support, the BCRFA has provided almost $11 million for life-saving breast cancer research and treatments in Alabama. The foundation’s most recent contribution for research was $1.05 million in January of 2021 thanks to the support of donors, sponsors, and partners. For every dollar raised and donated by the BCRFA, the O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center at UAB is able to generate at least $14 in federal funding. It is Alabama’s only cancer center designated by the National Cancer Institute and is a national leader in driving cancer research, advancing new cancer treatments, engaging communities in cancer prevention and early detection initiatives, and training the next generation of cancer physicians and scientists. Pumpkin Spice & Everything Pink & Nice These days, with “Fight Like a Girl” T-shirts and bracelets available almost everywhere we look in October (kinda like pumpkin spice), it can be hard to imagine a time when we didn’t talk something that impacts so many people. Former U.S. First Lady Betty Ford was the one who led the change on this front—we’ll share a little bit more about her later in the blog. Fortunately, in addition to public conversations and acceptance—and cute accessories that may or may not help fund medical research (think before you pink!)—there are now also resources to help breast cancer patients as they go through months of treatments that can bring on great mental, physical, and emotional tolls. St. Vincent’s Bruno Cancer Center Breast Cancer Support Group One of those resources is the Breast Cancer Support Group at St. Vincent’s Bruno Cancer Center, which provides education and support both for those living with breast cancer and the significant people in their lives. Participants are encouraged to attend at any point in the diagnosis and treatment journey. The group meets the second Tuesday of every month in the Bruno Conference Center from noon to 1:30pm. Small Tag, Big Difference Another important resource is the Alabama Department of Public Health’s Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (ABCCEDP), to which the Joy to Life Foundation contributes funding. More than 80 percent of the proceeds from the purchase of a Joy To Life (JTL) pink license plate go toward providing mammograms, biopsies, ultrasounds, and office visits to men and women in desperate need throughout the state’s 67 counties. It has helped to fund over 96,000 mammograms and save hundreds of lives. And for many, it serves as a reminder every time they see it that early detection is saving lives. That’s a small tag making a big difference! How It All Began With Betty The annual effort to raise awareness about the impact of breast cancer was established in 1985 as a partnership between the American Cancer Society and the pharmaceutical division of Imperial Chemical Industries (now part of AstraZeneca, a leading manufacturer of oncology drugs). Former U.S. First Lady Betty Ford was the face of the campaign; she had changed how the country talked about this once-taboo women’s health topic when she was diagnosed with breast cancer and had a radical mastectomy in 1974, just seven weeks into her husband Gerald Ford’s unexpected tenure as president of the United States after the resignation of Watergate scandal-disgraced Richard Nixon. Within hours of the operation, the White House held a press conference sharing the details of her surgery—including the good news that, largely because the cancer had been detected early, Mrs. Ford’s prognosis was excellent. According to History, what happened next was remarkable. “Women across the country lined up outside clinics to get breast exams; newspaper articles described how to perform self-exams; and in the first week after Betty’s surgery alone, the White House received more than 35,000 cards and letters.”
TAILGATING INSIDE & OUT—THE IDEA SPECIALISTS™ AT THE RETREAT AT MOUNTAIN BROOK IN BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA, SHARE THEIR TIPS
Root for your team at local faves Otey’s Tavern & Avondale Brewing Company Whether you bleed crimson and white, orange and blue, or gold and green, this season the Idea Specialists™ at the upscale Retreat at Mountain Brook apartment home community in Birmingham, Alabama, have some tailgating tips for you! Family & Friends, Food & Fun Tailgating with family and friends is first and foremost about the fellowship and fun of sharing in the excitement of game day–not to be confused with enjoying ESPN’S popular College GameDay, which is also big fun! Whether you gather together on campus, in a stadium parking lot, or in your comfortable den or the Retreat at Mountain Brook clubhouse, food and drink are key players to have on the field. Depending on the time set for kickoff, you might want to have brunch and mimosas or some beer and bottled water with afternoon burgers and baked beans. Either way, the Publix at Montclair Place has you covered with its extensive selection of regular and craft beers, sparkling and still waters, and pre-made mimosas in bottles! Perfect for when you’re planning to set up near Protective Stadium, the new home football field of the UAB Blazers; you can just leave them in your cooler while you welcome the team as they make their Blazer Walk. Maybe you can count on friend Ragan to always show up with his famous chicken wings and special sauce, or maybe you’d rather let Publix do the heavy lifting when it comes to grilled meats and party platters. Either way, if you’re rooting on the Crimson Tide you’ll for sure want to have on hand that classic University of Alabama student and alumni favorite adult beverage—a Yellowhammer! While Gallettes, the bar inside the Campus Party Store near Bryant-Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, has never shared the recipe for this cup of tropical sweetness, Garden & Gun says the ingredients are a combination of orange juice, pineapple juice, white rum, amaretto, and vodka served over ice. We’ve been known to mix ours with a plastic shaker stick while yelling Roll Tide (or singing Sweet Home Alabama!). Tasty Treats And speaking of brunch, who better to turn to than the inimitable Southern Living for recipes that will have your guests cheering for the way you’ve upped your hospitality game. They’ve put together a list of “45 Super Tasty Tailgate Treats To Make Ahead For Game Day” that the Retreat at Mountain Brook Idea Specialists™ have bookmarked, and you should, too! From Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels to Muddy Buddy Mix to Pepper-Pepper Cheese Dip, there something for everybody to enjoy as the soak up the gameday atmosphere on the Plains at your tailgate at Auburn University’s Graves Amphitheater. Especially if you stop by Byron’s Smokehouse on Opelika Road for some ribs on the way. (Did somebody say War Eagle?) Score With Comfort & Convenience Cute top for her from Gameday Couture? Check. Comfy T-shirt from Vintage Sports for him? Double-check! With everybody dressed and ready to go, the next thing to do if you’re going to tailgate near Sloan-Alumni Stadium in Fairfield, Alabama, is make sure you have comfortable seats, a good cooler, and enough table space for everything you’re sharing with your personal teammates. One favorite of the Idea Specialists™ from an HGTV list of “tailgating essentials” is a Giantex Folding Grill Table; you can get something similar online for not much more than $100. Then, once you’re ready to go inside, you can enjoy both the athletic prowess of the Miles College Golden Bears, and the fantastic halftime entertainment provided by the school’s Purple Marching Machine! Pub & Grub There are lots of fun sports bars convenient to the Retreat at Mountain Brook in Birmingham, Alabama. If you and your crowd don’t already have a favorite place to spend a Saturday afternoon or Sunday evening (we know a lot of y’all pull for the Saints, Falcons, and Titans!), you can always count on Otey’s Tavern for a good time. And, like the Retreat at Mountain Brook community, Avondale Brewing Company is pet-friendly—you can enjoy watching the game with your furry friend!
Luxury Towels for Luxury Apartment Living at The Retreat at Mountain Brook in Birmingham, Alabama
Special Finds For Your Home at Three Sheets & Alabama Goods in Homewood Time for new towels? Maybe you’re moving into your luxurious apartment home in Birmingham, Alabama, at the Retreat at Mountain Brook and need to stock up, or maybe you’re just ready to replace the ones you received as a gift from your Aunt Susan a few years ago. Either way, the Retreat at Mountain Brook Idea Specialists ™ have got you covered. In high-quality Turkish cotton, of course. Bath Towel Basics First let’s talk about what bath towels are made of—and maybe answer that pressing question of why the ones we get at spas and hotels often seem so much nicer than what we have at home. The folks over at the HGTV website put together a list of 12 bath towels for different budgets and styles, and included some important information about what makes a towel “good.” Namely, it’s GSM, or grams per square meter (kind of like the thread count of sheets). The baseline is 400, they say; anything less than that and you’ll be drying off with a scratchy towel that doesn’t do a very good job of absorbing water. If you get up to the 620-900 range, then you’re into the world of super-plush spa and hotel luxury linens. The next factor to consider is material. While some towels are made of bamboo or modal, most are cotton. If you’re looking for super-soft, look for Egyptian or Turkish cotton with their long fibers. (Be a smart shopper and don’t get taken in by “Turkish-style” in the name—it’s not the same!) Located in the heart of Homewood, Three Sheets (a linen shop) is a convenient place to go and feel the lushness that is an Abyss & Habidecor Egyptian cotton bath towel for yourself. If you’re looking for something a little more mainstream, you can’t go wrong with the Wamsutta Classic Turkish in white, usually easily available from Bed, Bath & Beyond. Clean & Pretty No matter what kind of towels you have, the Retreat at Mountain Brook Idea Specialists™ have some tips on how to make them a pleasant part of your bathroom décor. You’ve got towels that feel good; it’s important to make sure they smell good, too. Learning how to launder your linens is one key to achieving that “hotel towel experience.” Most resorts provide all-white towel sets, sometimes monogrammed. The standard color scheme means less sorting in the laundry, and white towels look crisp and clean when stacked neatly on the vanity or in the shower, or in a favorite basket or hamper. The experts say less is more when it comes to detergent and towels, and instead of using bleach and fabric softener, use baking soda and vinegar for stain treatment and softness. Many hotels use HTD Heavy Duty Detergent, which is sold in bulk. If you’re not up for buying a 25 lb. pail of washing machine soap from Worldwide Janitor, though, other pleasant-smelling heavy-duty options available at the grocery store or on Amazon are Persil ProClean, Gain, and, of course, that classic: Tide Original. Color & Convenience Consider adding a pop of whimsy and color to your bathroom with one of custom-designed hand towels available from Alabama Goods in Homewood. You also can make sure your guests don’t have to fret about using “the good towels” after they wash their hands by offering them the convenient option of cloth-like paper hand towels, which come in so many colors and patterns, and can be personalized with your initials and more. You can find some steals at the Tuesday Morning on Montclair Road, and are guaranteed good quality if you go the online route with PaperStyle. Seasonal Sales It’s always a good idea to keep your eyes out for seasonal sales, not just the traditional January white sale. As summer winds down, beach towels of all sizes, shapes, and materials are on the offer. We’re particular fans of the Linum Home Personalized Alara Turkish Pestemal now marked down at Macy’s. The Strategist has put together a list of the best beach towels on Amazon “According to Hyperenthusiastic Reviewers,” if you’re looking for other ideas. Out With The Old Now that you’ve got your new towels nicely displayed in your powder room, what to do with the old ones? If you’re in the mood for some simple arts and crafts, you can always cut your old towels into strips, braid them together, tie knots on each end, then pull the ends together and tie an overhead knot in the center: Voila! Homemade dog toy! Or use your old towels to wipe down your precious pup after y’all have been out to play at the Retreat at Mountain Brook’s pet-friendly park. Don’t have a fuzzy friend of your own? You can always donate your old towels to the Greater Birmingham Humane Society.
Keeping Your Cool in the Dog Days of Summer
The Retreat at Mountain Brook in Birmingham, Alabama, is definitely a pet-friend luxury apartment community, but even we get tired of the “dog” days of summer—all they fetch is more heat and humidity! Not to worry, though: Our Retreat at Mountain Brook Idea Specialists™ have some ideas on how we can keep our cool during this stretch of sweltering weather, which, according to The Old Farmer’s Almanac, “coincides with the year’s heliacal (meaning ‘at sunrise’) rising of Sirius, the Dog Star. Sirius is part of the constellation Canis Majoris—the ‘Greater Dog’—which is where Sirius gets its canine nickname, as well as its official name, Alpha Canis Majoris.” Of course their first suggestion is to cool down with a dip in one of the community’s three beautifully landscaped saltwater pools. Yes, please! And after that you can meet up with friends in one of the two on-site clubhouses in air-conditioned comfort. Read on for more recommendations! I Scream, You Scream…. Yep, that’s right, we all scream for ice cream! And according to Food & Wine, you can find the best in the entire state of Alabama right here in Birmingham at Big Spoon Creamery. Check out the coverage on this summer’s fun food story at Bham Now, an online-only news site dedicated to covering “the good in Birmingham.” We’re not sure if we’re gonna have a cone of sweet basil or a few scoops of the watermelon-margarita sorbet. Can’t go wrong either way, right? Oh, Those Summer Nights The Retreat at Mountain Brook Idea Specialists™ know all too well what it’s like to not be able to get a good night’s sleep because it’s so hot outside. Even if your home is pleasantly cool, your body and your mind are still impacted by the day’s thermometer reading. That’s why they’ve invested in cooling mattress toppers. We’re going to follow their lead by purchasing one from Cozy Earth, which this review from CNET says is, “Ideal for those of us who sleep hot, or have bedrooms stuck in the most insufferable of humid environments.” Can’t Stomach The Heat? If you can’t stomach idea of turning on your oven when it’s 98 degrees in the shade, then look no further for inspiration for cold dinners than Mashed, with its suggestions of salad classics like Cobb and Waldorf, and its version of aguachile, ceviche’s bright green cousin from Mazatlan, in the Mexican state of Sinaloa. Tiny Bubbles Whatever you have for supper, these days you have more choices than ever when it comes to selecting a sparkling water to accompany your meal. From the ubiquitous La Croix Pure to Bubly Bounce Caffeinated in triple berry, there’s something fizzy out there for every set of tastebuds. Advanced Mixology “scoured the market” to come up with its list of the 12 Best Sparkling Water Brands of 2021. Maybe what you’re after, though, is just the right cold beverage for a late-morning pick-me-up or an afternoon treat. In that case, a field trip to conveniently located YoYo Donuts in Homewood for some of their bubble (or “boba”) tea is most certainly in order! Not familiar with this sweet and chewy drink that’s long been wildly popular in Asia, Taiwan in particular? Eater does a great job of guiding us novices through what turns out to be a delicious world of bubble-related options. Let’s Go To The Movies Order your snacks ahead of time and have them waiting on you when you escape from the blinding sunshine into one of the cool, darkened theatres at the AMC Summit 16. With, well, 16 movies to choose from, you can spend many an entertaining hour out of the heat before you’re ready to head back home to The Retreat at Mountain Brook.
Fire Up the Grill for Father’s Day
Whether you’re gearing up to grill for the summer or planning a special Father’s Day feast, The Retreat at Mountain Brook Idea Specialists™ in Birmingham, Alabama, have you covered with recipes, tips, and techniques, as well as ideas for the perfect gift for dear old dad, puppy papas, and first-time fathers! Safety First! Before you light a fire at one of The Retreat at Mountain Brook’s outdoor grilling stations, make sure you’ve invested in some heat-resistant gloves. Business Insider named the Steven Raichlen Extra Long Suede Grill Gloves as their No. 1 pick of 2021, saying they’re “essentially oversized and reinforced welding gloves, and the most protective ones we’re tried.” And, if you’re planning a nighttime cookout, you’ll want to get a GrillLight Stainless LED Tongs & Spatula set from The Cook Store of Mountain Brook so you won’t have to worry about losing sight of your shish kabob in the dark. Owner Wesley Lassen says it’s one of the things that flies off the shelf this time of year, along with a wooden grill cleaner that won’t shed fibers or chemicals that can contaminate your food. Grill All The Things Sure, we like the basics as well as anybody else. Hamburgers and hot dogs, sausages and steaks, chicken and fish – when you think about a poolside party, you probably start with “the meats.” After having some grilled Romaine lettuce and a fab grilled peach salad at one gathering a few years ago, our Idea Specialists™ basically tried to figure out what they could _not_ grill. The answer? If you invest in a good grill pan or basket, _not_ much! Check out the selection at Little Hardware in English Village’s Grill Shop when you get the chance. This season, our mouths are watering for Southern Living’s updated version of a cookout classic: potato salad. Their version? Charred Okra-Potato Salad, seasoned with a hint of fresh thyme and tossed in a lemon-scallion vinaigrette. Yummy. Subtle Salts & Other Seasoning We’ve started following FoodFireFriends on Pinterest. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned pro, there’s sure to be something there for you, from grilling guides to equipment reviews, and, of course, recipes. We like their guidance on Himalayan Salt Block Grilling; what could be easier than setting a nice cut of beef down on a sanitary rectangle and having it do the salting for you? Because such salt is unrefined, the inclusion of multiple minerals and trace elements gives complexity and subtlety of flavor to foods cooked on a solid block of it. If the dad in your life likes a little bolder taste, look no further than Penzeys on 18th Street South in Homewood. Their various gift boxes contain some of their most popular meat, poultry, and fish seasonings, and there’s a salt-free option, as well. We just love the cute little minis contained in the Grill & Broil Red. And the store is still offering touch-free curbside pickup. Pet Papas The Retreat at Mountain Brook gets high marks from its residents for how truly pet-friendly this upscale apartment community is. So of course our Idea Specialists™ are going to have some Father’s Day gift ideas for all of those dedicated daddies of fuzzy babies. For dogs, the Snuffle Nosework Dog Mat recommended by the editors of The Strategist tops the list, and if CrossFit is a part of the family, too, then of course your good boy needs his own kettlebell! For the kitty daddy, a gift certificate to Sheppard’s Pet Supply on Fourth Avenue South will do nicely. Owner Will Sheppard loves it when folks bring their pets in to visit the store, which he opened in October 2015, and which features high-end toys and treats in addition to raw and holistic foods (for dogs, too). New Daddies One of the most-asked-for gifts on Baby List’s registries right now is the Inglesina Fast Table Chair—perfect for when the first-time father wants to take his new little family out to eat instead of staying home to grill. The attachable chair’s padded seat is washable (a must!), and cleverly tucked in at the bottom is an integrated carrying bag. More Ideas Check out this list of 124 Best Father’s Day Gift Ideas in 2021 at Groovy Guy Gifts. Somebody we know is getting an engraved minimalist wallet this year, just saying…. For more good grilling ideas, go to Delish to learn about “29 Awesome Ways to Cook Steak.”
Happy National Pet Month!
As far as we’re concerned, every day is pet day at The Retreat at Mountain Brook in Birmingham, Alabama, so of course we’re excited about May being National Pet Month in the United States! According to the Humane Society of the United States, pets live in two-thirds of American homes, and 72 percent of the people who rent their homes have pets. We know how important it is for a luxury apartment community to be pet-friendly, and that’s why our Retreat at Mountain Brook Idea Specialists™ made sure we incorporated a dog park into our landscaping plans from the very beginning. Because, barks and recreation, right? And, we celebrate our fuzzy friends all the time online in social media posts and in a gallery at our website. Nothing brings a smile to our faces like seeing sweet kitties and good doggies! Do Dah Day Birmingham has a tradition of having fun at Do Dah Day for National Pet Month—this year, the gathering will be held Saturday, May 15, at Cahaba Brewing Company, complete with a “reverse parade” on 3rd Avenue South and live music at the venue. The 2021 beneficiaries of Do Dah Day are the Greater Birmingham Humane Society and Friends of Cats and Dogs Foundation. Tickets are $5; learn more at: https://www.dodahday.org/faq Treats! If you haven’t tried any of the monthly subscription boxes for cats and dogs, maybe this month is when to check out meowbox with fun toys and fine treats for finicky felines (plus, hey—the box itself!), and BarkBox with its themed collections that the company calls “month-long dog parties.” BarkBox partners with thousands of rescues and shelters across the United States and Canada through its Rescue and Shelter Affiliate Program, and meowbox donates a portion of each box sold to shelters and rescues. Prices start at about $23 a month for both. Critical Care You probably already have a favorite vet, but it never hurts to have the number of an emergency care provider on hand. The compassionate and highly skilled multi-specialty staff members at Veterinary Specialists of Birmingham on Resource Parkway off U.S. Highway 280 are just who you want on your side when your good boy decides to eat a bottle of shampoo _and_ entire bath towel at 2 o’clock on the morning, and their ICU facility is state of the art. Pamper, Play & Stay Is it time for somebody to get his coat cut for the upcoming summer? Does the kitty not do well by herself when you decide to head to the beach for a spur-of-the moment weekend trip? Not to worry—Birmingham has many excellent pet boarding and grooming facilities. Our Retreat at Mountain Brook Idea Specialists™ have been hearing good things about a few in particular lately: Dog Days of Birmingham, Howlin Hollows Farm, and My Spoiled Pet Resort & Spa. Howlin Hollows (conveniently located off Highway 280, I-459, and near The Summit and Colonnade) features several acres of land with plenty of open space for running and playing, water misters, and even a canine swimming pool! What a great place for your best four-legged friend to get some exercise and burn off a little energy We love the fact that the owners of Dog Days live above the kennel on Birmingham’s 18th Street North. Sue and Jimmy provide your puppies with a truly cage-free environment during the day, supervised, of course. Come the evening, they’re happily worn out and ready for bed. The dogs, we mean! And who doesn’t love a spa day? My Spoiled Pet, down 280 near Inverness Corners, features bath packages for cats and dogs of all sizes, including blowouts and brushouts, and provides boarding for dogs, cats, and small pets. And they offer military discounts. Share photos of your fur-babies!
Let the Spring Games Begin!
It isn’t just Earth Day we’ll celebrate April 22, 2021! Spring has sprung at The Retreat at Mountain Brook in Birmingham, Alabama, and with it the chance to get outside and play! Group games are such a fun way to spend time with friends and get to know new young professionals in our upscale apartment community. Maybe you want to organize some friendly cornhole competitions, or do something a little more casual, like spend time throwing horseshoes while you’re at one of our grilling stations. Options abound! We asked the Retreat at Mountain Brook Idea Specialists™ what their go-tos are on the gaming front. Along with cornhole and horseshoes, they are fans of some other classics—bocce ball and ladder toss. Any of those pair well with a cold craft beer or glass of fresh lemonade, soft or hard—or you can try your hand at some of this season’s popular cocktails like a Cherry Blossom or Griffith Park Swizzle. Visit R&R Wine & Liquor in Crestline Village to get just what you need. Think about taking some indoor clubhouse favorites outside. There’s a giant version of almost everything these days, from yard Yahtzee and ginormous Jenga to checkers and tic-tac-toe on a blanket. Once it gets just a _little_ bit warmer, you may want to start socializing on the sundecks. When things heat up, you can take your volleyball game into one of The Retreat at Mountain Brook’s three salt-water pools. Or, play the water-based version of cornhole. Of course, we can’t leave our furry friends out of the gaming fun; one of the reasons our residents recommend us to friends is because we’re such an animal-friendly community. Doggie Frisbee is fun for everyone to watch and gets you and your good boy or girl some great exercise! Our pet park is the perfect place for that, and Homewood Toy & Hobby is the perfect place to buy an Aerobie Dogobie Flying Disc, which is both puncture-resistant and gentle on your pet’s mouth. If sitting inside the clubhouse out of the sun is more your speed, board games are the way to bring people around the table. Again, our Retreat at Mountain Brook Idea Specialists™ are fans of the classics: Scrabble, Monopoly, and chess (“The Queen’s Gambit,” anyone?). For multi-player fun that doesn’t last as long, they suggest Articulate!, a fast-paced team game for up to 20 players. The concept is that taking turns, each member of a team has only 30 seconds to describe as many words from a category as they can. The catch? No saying what the word rhymes with or sounds like. Check out the array of games nearby Smith’s Variety Toy & Gift Shoppe in Mountain Brook Village has to offer. You’ll be glad you did! Fun!
Your Place at the Table
Isn’t it funny how a chore we all tried to get out of when we were growing up is now almost a hobby? From basic place settings to trendy tableware, our Idea Specialists™ at The Retreat at Mountain Brook in Birmingham, Alabama, are here with recommendations on how to set your table for spring! HARMONIOUS WHITES There’s no better way to start than with a set of strong white dishes—the potential for mixing and matching them with other elements of your table settings is almost limitless. An always reliable go-to is the Gibson brand, and its Noble Court timeless rim shape 12-piece set is a value buy at Target. If you’re in the mood for something a little more funky, check out Mikasa’s Coronado Pearl 4-piece place setting (part of its Portugal Dinnerware Collection) offered by Macy’s. Unique shapes and rich pearlescence turn everyday soup bowls and salad plates into works of art in their own right. For serving pieces, pop over to Lamb’s Ears in Crestline Village, or visit them online. From elegant Montes Doggett pieces to the whimsical Bow Wow Platter, there’s something for almost every bunny in their stylistically wide range of offerings. GLAMOROUS GLASSWARES Pair your new dishes with a mix of goblets and glasses in all hues of the rainbow. We could (and do!) spend a lot of time looking at Lulu and Georgia’s Insta, so it just makes sense that we would be drawn to their Estelle Stemware, which comes in a variety of colors. We’re partial to smoke as we head into spring. But if you’re already ready for brighter and lighter, Pottery Barn’s Happy Hour Goblets might be just the ticket! FUN WITH FLATWARE We will always be a fan of Oneida and its classic Louisiana flatware, even if we do live in Alabama. What’s not to love about the luster and the details, not to mention the balance of the pieces? Plus, it’s always easy to find, just in case you accidentally get the butter knife caught in the disposal. Not that we’re saying we did that, you understand. A 45-piece set now available online at Bed Bath & Beyond includes dinner forks and knives, salad forks, dinner spoons, teaspoons, and more. For something a little more casual, there’s the West Elm Color Pop Caddy—four place settings in Easter egg colors stored in a clever handled carrier, which means it’s easy to take back and forth from the dining table to the porch if you want to dine al fresco! For steak knives, The Retreat at Mountain Brook Idea Specialists™ recommend shopping locally at Table Matters in Mountain Brook Village. We like the Vagabond House set with shed stag horn handles, adorned with pewter crown and accent ferrule; it mixes elements of elegant and rustic for useful and striking implements. GET IT TOGETHER Whether you’re serving a serious Sunday dinner or just enjoy seeing your table nicely set, a table runner is a little piece of magic you can use to draw everything together. No matter your style, from contemporary to Victorian with Southwestern and Scandinavian in between, the Houzz collection features almost any option you can imagine, and at almost that many price points! We decided on the Metallic Glam one in rose for our first one. Placemats are another way to coordinate, and it’s really hard to have too many. From holiday happies to patterns and solids, again, options abound—it’s all about what makes you happy. The Spruce featured SHACOS round braided placemats as one of its 14 Best of 2021, and we can see why: They’re easy to wipe clean and come in everything from canary yellow to plain ol’ beige. We can work with that!
