Sports + Recreation

Born to hunt

‘Thank you God for this wonderful life!’ Article by Wendy Sack | Photography by Joel McWhorter, McComm Group, Inc. Rick Earwood has, in his own words, been traipsing through marsh and thorn chasing game ever since he could hold a shotgun. Now, some 50-plus years later, he owns and operates Rough Edge Upland Bird Hunts, an endeavor born out of his love of the hunt…and his dad. “My dad passed away in 2021. It was the beginning of quail mating season and the quail around my farm were very vocal...

Shopping

Holiday gift guide

The perfect gift is waiting at one of these local shops! Article by Cullman City Lifestyle | Photography by Contributed by businesses Whether you are deep in the joy of holiday shopping or just starting out, make sure to check out some of these local favorite stores. Each is locally owned and operated, offering unique items for all the special people on your list. Happy shopping!   Mavens & Makers 302 Second Ave. SE, Cullman Facebook.com/MavensAndMakers Mavens & Makers has...

Travel

Relax at Rushing River Retreat

A weekend of friends, food and the peaceful charm of Ellijay, Georgia Article and Photography by Cullman City Lifestyle There’s something special about taking a trip with friends — the laughter, the stories and the shared moments that linger long after you’re home. This fall, the Lees, the Hamers, and the Gurleys packed up for a long weekend getaway and headed north to the charming town of Ellijay, Georgia, tucked away in the rolling Blue Ridge Mountains. It's just under a four-hour drive from...

Entertainment

For the book lovers

Cozy up with a new (or favorite) title this season Article by Cullman City Lifestyle | Photography by Amazon 'My Friends' by Fredrik Backman "#1 New York Times bestselling author Fredrik Backman returns with an unforgettably funny, deeply moving tale of four teenagers whose friendship creates a bond so powerful that it changes a complete stranger’s life twenty-five years later." (Amazon)   'The River is Waiting' by Wally Lamb "#1 New York Times bestselling author Wally Lamb...returns...

Home + Design

Home for the holidays

Explore Posh Lifestyle Design Article by Wendy Sack | Photography by Posh Lifestyle Design Looking for a new, locally owned store to explore? One that has everything you need this season — whether you are searching for a unique gift or the perfect pieces to make your home cozy for the holidays? Look no further than Posh Lifestyle Design, which opened this year. Posh is owned by Teresa and Wade McDonald. “We have essentials to make any home beautiful and comfy,” said Teresa McDonald. “Posh...

Entertainment

A holiday ministry

Bringing joy to children of all ages Article by Wendy Sack | Photography by Lisa Jones Photography You probably recognize Lisa Jones’ work. From crisp, professional headshots to unique senior portraits to beautiful photographs that bring out the personalities of adorable, adoptable animals, her talent is undeniable. This time of year, she puts that talent toward making the holidays extra special.   “Several years ago I started offering ‘Santa Experience’ sessions. I called the sessions ‘A...

Food + Beverage

Farm-to-table Thanksgiving

Tips from Mavens & Makers Owner Ashlea Chance Article by Wendy Sack | Photography by Ashlea Chance Yearning for a farm-to-table Thanksgiving? Mavens & Makers has a wealth of wares and advice. “We opened in April 2021, and recently moved downtown next to Southern Accents,” said Owner Ashlea Chance. The store is known for its farm-raised meats and veggies, quality kitchenwares, artisan foods and gifts, and, said Chance, “We’re in the process of opening our demonstrative kitchen for cooking...

Health + Wellness

For the love of seniors

Visiting Angels caregivers aren’t just helpers; they’re extended family Article by Wendy Sack | Photography by Visiting Angels Cullman Thanksgiving and the holiday season are a time for family, and the heart of a family is oftentimes the older generation — our seniors, those who raised us and are parts of the family traditions we cherish so much. But our seniors need love and care every day of the year, and sometimes that includes special caregivers. That’s where agencies like Visiting Angels...

Arts + Culture

Experience the magic: ‘The Nutcracker’

Cullman Ballet Company's holiday favorite returns Dec. 6-7 Article by Wendy Sack | Photography by Cullman Ballet Company Can you tell us a little about this year's production of "The Nutcracker?" This will be the fifth season of "The Nutcracker" story ballet presented by the Cullman Ballet Company, with a community cast of children who audition and adults who volunteer.  The Cullman Ballet Company, the official pre-professional ballet company of The Cullman Ballet Theatre School, has...

Shopping

Heirlooms, heart and Southern roots

Ashley Mercantile is a nod to family traditions Article by Wendy Sack | Photography by Ashley Mercantile Ashley Mercantile was born out of family traditions, and it began with a red-and-white vintage enamel brownie pan. “That’s where the idea for the store started,” explained Owner Ryne Ashley. “We were out of town and our bigger family was with us and we went to a really cool store that I knew about, and both of my grandmothers brought this pan to me together and told me, ‘Ryne, we would do...