Life + Culture

Golden France

A Journey through Sud Touraine Article by Natalie Ballard, Golden Hour Jewelers | Photography by Provided For this issue of Explore, we invited Natalie Ballard of Golden Hour Jewelers to share a glimpse into a lesser-known corner of France that has inspired both her work and her sense of home. Through the vineyards and villages of the Sud Touraine region, she reflects on what it means to discover beauty—in craft, in place and in community.   If you speak to a Parisian, they will surely...

Wellness

Horses of Hope

Inside a Missouri nonprofit where healing begins with horses Article by Donna King | Photography by Jess White In the quiet pastures just outside Rogersville, Missouri, something transformative unfolds. It doesn’t involve fluorescent lights, waiting rooms, or clipboards. It begins with the sway of a horse’s back, the steady rhythm of hooves, and the warm breath of an animal trained not just to carry—but to connect through a safe relationship. At Horses of Hope, therapy isn’t about control...

Wellness

Summer Skin, Uncomplicated

Expert insight from Healing Hands Skin Therapy Article by Donna King | Photography by Madi Taylor This summer, we’re leaning into light, warmth—and the kind of skin that glows because it’s truly cared for. In a season made for movement and sunshine, it’s the perfect time to explore not just new routines, but new ways of thinking about skin health. April Wilkie, founder of Healing Hands Skin Therapy and a trusted skincare professional for over 30 years, shares how to approach your summer...

Arts + Culture

Harmony and Heart

Inside Springfield’s Barbershop Harmony Society Chapter Article by Tina Lesniak Barbershop music is more than a nod to the past — it’s a living, breathing art form thriving in communities like Springfield, Missouri. At the center of this harmonious movement is the Springfield chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society (BHS), a vibrant collective that extends well beyond the traditional quartet format. According to Paul Olguin, Springfield Sound director and BHS member, “We are actually more...

Wellness

Faith, Family, Fulfillment

Local men share their lessons on achieving balance between a successful career and home life Article by Patti Zielinski Juggling careers with personal fulfillment, professional men in the Ozarks are redefining what it means to have it all. They’re prioritizing their mental well-being, family time and passions outside the office—without sacrificing success. From flexible schedules to mindful living, the new work-life balance isn’t just a dream; it’s a movement. Chris Larsen, general manager of...

Sports + Recreation

Set Sail at Fellows Lake

Community, Camaraderie, and the Joy of Sailing with Springfield Sailing Club Article by Tina Lesniak | Photography by Provided by Springfield Sailing Club Tucked into the scenic landscape just north of Springfield, Missouri, Fellows Lake is home to more than just beautiful views and serene waters — it’s also the heart of a thriving community of sailors brought together by the Springfield Sailing Club. What began as a small effort to get more people out on the water has grown into a vibrant hub...

Auto + Marine

G.R.O.O.V.E.: Keeping it Groovy

Ozarks' Volkswagen Enthusiasts Celebrate 30 Years Article by Tina Lesniak What started as a simple idea among a few Volkswagen lovers has grown into a community staple. “I would like to say that we were a bunch of hippies sitting around looking for something to do,” laughs founding member Vicky Myers, “but the answer is more practical. Just a few enthusiasts wanted to put on a car show, so we formed a non-profit club.” That club became G.R.O.O.V.E.—short for General Registry Of Ozarks...

Style + Beauty

Timeless Timepieces

Expert Guide by Golden Hour Jewelers’ Kevin Ballard Article by Kevin Ballard Kevin Ballard, co-owner of Golden Hour Jewelers, has worked in luxury watches for over twenty years, and was trained by some of the world’s most exclusive brands, notably Vacheron and Patek Philippe. Here are Kevin's top watch choices. Dress Watch : Maker - Jaeger Le Coultre  Model - The Reverso  Timeless sophistication and class. The quintessential dress watch on strap. Its elongated case is timeless in design and...

Travel

Beautiful Mornings Ahead

Angela Burgess Leaps into her Second Act Article by Tina Lesniak | Photography by Tiffany Enowski When Angela Burgess retired from a fulfilling 25-year career in law enforcement, she didn’t slow down. Instead, she embraced a new chapter, one where her love for travel could blossom into something more. "I’ve always wanted to be in the travel business," she says, reflecting on her journey. What followed was the creation of Beautiful Morning Travel, a company that reflects Angela’s passion for...

Arts + Culture

A Teacher’s Top Reads

Stories That Captivated Carey Schmitz This Year Article by Tina Lesniak Carey Schmitz, a teacher of 21 years currently teaching third grade, is an avid reader. With her husband and three boys, she enjoys traveling, sports and health and wellness. She enjoys books "that have an amazing hook and can grab my attention quickly. I want a book that I don’t want to put down. I often tell my students to find a book you can get lost in." She extends this love of reading to her students. "I build a...