As a full-service brokerage, Gray Fox Realty is focused on guiding clients through every stage of the home-selling journey — from strategic marketing and professional representation to the closing table. Headquartered in downtown Franklin, they proudly serve Williamson County and surrounding communities with a modern, client-centered approach to real estate.

Thanks to technology and streamlined processes, Gray Fox Realty offers a flat-fee marketing agreement that helps homeowners retain more of the equity they have worked hard to build. The 3-tier fee structure is based on home size, with listing packages starting at $995. This provides a cost-effective alternative to traditional commission structures while still allowing Gray Fox to offer professional, full-service representation. Fees begin at $995 and go up to  $4,995 based on the size of the home. At closing, the seller is responsible for the transaction fee based as well, which escalates with the square footage.

Before signing any agreement, the in-home consultation allows the agent to meet you and ensures the Gray Fox model aligns with your goals. Gray Fox Realty also provides insight into current market trends and inventory levels, helping you better understand the local real estate landscape and make informed decisions.

Gray Fox only utilizes professional photos in the marketing of your home. They know that the majority of buyers find their homes online, and that high-quality marketing creates a strong first impression and maximizes online appeal. Strategic online teaser campaigns generate excitement before your home officially hits the market, and social media promotions increase buyer interest once it’s been listed.

Prospective buyers can learn about your home with Gray Fox Realty’s text capture yard sign. Anyone with a smartphone can instantly get access to photos and details of your home. Of course, you are always in control of your showings with minimal effort, confirming appointments by phone, text, or email. 

The Gray Fox yard sign features a bright background with soothing colors, and Gray, the fox, is prominently displayed, making a lasting impression on prospective buyers. The safety and security of your family and home are also taken seriously. Gray Fox uses only NAR (National Association of REALTORS) approved Sentrilock lockboxes and will never use a combination lock on occupied homes. 

Finally, contracts and offers can be reviewed and signed anytime, anywhere using secure digital signature technology across smartphones, tablets, and desktop devices. With years of real estate negotiation experience, Gray Fox advocates diligently for its clients, skillfully managing every detail of the transaction process to ensure deadlines and contract terms are met with precision. 

Gray Fox is confident that they can find the right buyer for your home. To learn more or schedule a stress-free, no-pressure consultation, contact Gray Fox Realty at (615) 656-8181 today!

MIKE GRUMBLES
CO-OWNER AND BROKER

Mike has an engineering background and graduated from Clemson University. He has a diverse professional background, including roles at Honda Research & Development, Dana Corporation, and entrepreneurial ventures in real estate. Gray Fox has leveraged his experience to help build a process flow in the real estate vertical that provides its clients with a superior customer experience.

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PHOTOS PROVIDED

Bone and Joint Institute of Tennessee is proud to welcome John D. Dockery, MD, board-certified in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R), to its growing team of specialists. With more than 20 years of experience in physiatry and musculoskeletal medicine, Dr. Dockery brings advanced expertise in non-surgical spine care, interventional spine, and physical medicine and rehabilitation.

A Tennessee native, Dr. Dockery earned his undergraduate degree from University of

Tennessee, Knoxville, and his medical degree from Emory University School of Medicine. He completed his residency in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at University of Alabama at Birmingham, where he received advanced training in musculoskeletal and rehabilitation medicine. His addition strengthens the organization’s commitment to delivering comprehensive, patient-centered orthopaedic and spine care across Middle Tennessee, including expanded access to physiatry and advanced interventional spine services in Spring Hill.

Non-Surgical Spine Care and Physiatry Treatment Approach

Physiatrists specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions that affect movement, function, and quality of life, with a strong emphasis on restoring mobility and improving function without surgery. At Bone and Joint Institute of Tennessee, Dr. Dockery provides personalized, evidence-based treatment plans designed around each patient’s functional goals, lifestyle, and long-term recovery.

Care may include a combination of diagnostic evaluation, therapeutic exercise guidance,

non-surgical treatment options, and advanced interventional procedures. This integrated

approach ensures treatment is focused not only on restoring movement and function, but also on improving strength, mobility, and overall quality of life. Dr. Dockery is highly trained in advanced image-guided spine and musculoskeletal procedures, including kyphoplasty and basivertebral nerve ablation using the Intracept Procedure, allowing for precise identification and treatment of underlying spine conditions. These minimally invasive techniques improve diagnostic accuracy and support targeted care for conditions such as degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, herniated discs, vertebral compression fractures, chronic vertebrogenic low back pain, and nerve-related pain, including sciatica

His procedural expertise includes kyphoplasty for vertebral compression fractures, Intracept Procedure for vertebrogenic low back pain, epidural steroid injections, facet joint injections, medial branch blocks, and radiofrequency ablation. These minimally invasive treatments are designed to improve mobility, restore function, and support long-term recovery.

Dr. Dockery has performed an exceptional volume of kyphoplasty and Intracept procedures in recent years, placing him among a very small number of physicians nationally with this level of procedural experience. His expertise significantly expands access to advanced, minimally invasive spine procedures within Middle Tennessee and surrounding communities. By combining conservative treatment strategies with advanced interventional options, patients benefit from a comprehensive, non-surgical approach to spine and musculoskeletal care that prioritizes long-term outcomes and quality of life.

Expanded Interventional Spine and Non-Surgical Spine Services in Spring Hill

In response to increasing regional demand for spine and physiatry services, Bone and Joint

Institute of Tennessee Spring Hill location is expanding and renovating its Spring Hill location. This investment includes a dedicated interventional spine suite equipped with fluoroscopy (C-arm) technology, allowing for precise, image-guided spine injections and advanced interventional procedures to be performed on-site.

These enhancements improve procedural accuracy, enhance patient safety, and streamline care delivery by enabling patients to receive advanced spine injections and specialized procedures, such as kyphoplasty and basivertebral nerve ablation, closer to home. The expansion significantly improves access to non-surgical spine care, physiatry, and interventional spine services for patients in Spring Hill and surrounding Middle Tennessee communities, supporting more efficient coordination of care among orthopedic surgeons, physiatrists, and rehabilitation specialists.

Collaborative Spine and Rehabilitation Care

Dr. Dockery will play a key role in advancing the institute’s interventional physiatry and spine care program by expanding access to highly specialized procedures that are not widely available in the region, including kyphoplasty and the Intracept procedure.

He will collaborate closely with orthopaedic surgeons, rehabilitation specialists, and clinical teams to ensure coordinated, multidisciplinary care that supports optimal patient outcomes. He will treat a wide range of conditions, including chronic neck and back pain, herniated discs, spinal stenosis, sciatica, vertebral compression fractures, degenerative spine conditions, and vertebrogenic low back pain.

To learn more about services at the Spring Hill location or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Dockery, visit boneandjointtn.org/spring-hill or call (615) 791-2070.

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Atlantic Pools & Spas prides itself on delivering exceptional craftsmanship and unparalleled customer service, backed by decades of experience in the pool and outdoor living industry. As Middle Tennessee’s premier pool builder, they have been transforming backyards into personal paradises for years, earning a reputation for reliability, innovation, and superior quality.

Their commitment to excellence has established them as a trusted name in pool construction, renovation, and outdoor living spaces throughout the region. With fully licensed professionals overseeing every phase of the project, each detail is managed by experienced experts to ensure exceptional quality. From licensed general contracting to skilled plumbing and electrical work, every element is completed with licensed professionals and precision.

Your pool should be more than just a place to swim – it should be a personal retreat that reflects your unique style and enhances the beauty of your backyard, and Atlantic Pools & Spas delivers just that. The custom pool features are designed to transform your pool into a luxurious and entertaining space. From stunning water features to mesmerizing fire elements and advanced lighting, customers have a variety of upgrades to take their pool to the next level. They offer on-site expert consultations and full 3D design planning. Call and schedule yours today!

Relaxation should also be a priority these days, and what better way than to relax in a hot tub? In their full-service retail store, Atlantic Pools & Spas proudly offers high-quality portable hot tubs from Garden Leisure. Whether creating a peaceful escape after a long day or a year-round space for wellness and enjoyment, these portable hot tubs bring comfort, luxury, and convenience right to your backyard.

If your pool has seen better days, Atlantic Pools & Spas offers comprehensive renovation services designed to bring it back to life, offering full-scale renovations, including pool remodeling, vinyl liner replacements, and upgrades to your pool’s surrounding hardscape. Skilled professionals enhance both functionality and appearance by adding new features, updating interior finishes, or reimagining the overall layout. No matter the project’s scope, Atlantic Pools & Spas remains committed to delivering exceptional results that exceed expectations.

Take the first step toward getting your dream backyard oasis. Whether you’re looking for a vinyl liner pool, fiberglass pool, gunite, custom features like spas and waterfalls, or a hot tub, Atlantic Pools & Spas has the expertise to bring your vision to life.

Call (931) 381-6900 to schedule a free consultation and discover how to make a beautiful, high-quality pool or spa a reality in 2026. Visit atlanticpoolsandspas.com for additional information or to schedule a consultation. The water is calling!

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Women’s health is a lifelong journey. From adolescence and pregnancy to midlife transitions and menopause, women’s healthcare needs naturally evolve. No matter the stage of life, Williamson Health is committed to helping women live their healthiest lives.

“As women mature, their health needs continue to change,” said Michele Simpson, chief marketing and communications officer for Williamson Health. “Every woman’s journey is unique, and we strive to meet women where they are with exceptional, personalized care.”

That commitment has earned national recognition. Williamson Medical Center, the system’s flagship facility, recently received nine 2026 Women’s Choice^® Awards for patient experience, obstetrics, comprehensive breast care, and overall women’s services. CareChex^®ranked the hospital among the top 10% nationwide for medical excellence in women’s health, Forbes included it in its inaugural Top Hospitals 2026 list, and Newsweek named it among the World’s Best Hospitals for 2026.

With high-quality care close to home, Williamson Health’s physicians and advanced practice providers are ready to support women of all ages.

Young Adults: Building a Healthy Foundation

“Young adulthood is a critical time for establishing the habits that support lifelong health,” Simpson said. “Regular checkups, proper nutrition, and physical activity all play an important role.”

Primary care providers monitor key health indicators and help identify concerns early. Beginning annual gynecological visits also helps young women build relationships with trusted providers who can offer guidance and preventive care, laying the foundation for long-term wellness.

Williamson Health offers convenient access to proactive care through the diverse group of primary care physicians in Williamson Health Medical Group, as well as two OB/GYN practices — Vanderbilt Franklin Women’s Center and Women’s Group of Franklin — affiliated with Williamson Medical Center.

Mid-20s and 30s: Family Planning and Preventive Care

During this stage of life, many women focus on building careers, starting families, and maintaining overall wellness. Preventive care becomes especially important, including annual exams, reproductive health services, and routine screenings such as Pap smears for cervical cancer.

For expectant mothers, Williamson Medical Center provides nationally recognized obstetrics (OB) and neonatal intensive care units (NICU), along with comprehensive maternal support. Recent upgrades to Labor and Delivery and Postpartum Recovery include spacious, modern rooms designed for comfort.

Michael DeRoche, M.D., and Chelsea Clinton, M.D., Williamson Health’s maternal-fetal specialists, offer guidance to women facing high-risk pregnancies or pregnancy complications. Additionally, Williamson Health’s Urogynecology and Pelvic Health team can help women dealing with complex gynecological conditions or sexual health issues, such as pelvic organ prolapse, incontinence, endometriosis, fibroids, and more.

40s and 50s: Managing Midlife Changes

Hormonal shifts in the 40s and 50s can bring perimenopause, menopause, and a variety of physical and emotional changes. Health priorities include managing symptoms, maintaining heart and bone health, and staying current with recommended screenings. “It’s important that women begin yearly mammograms at age 40, and all adults should begin colorectal cancer screenings at 45,” Simpson said.

Williamson Health’s Turner-Dugas Breast Health Center, nationally recognized by the Women’s Choice Awards, provides expert, compassionate care for women diagnosed with breast cancer. Additionally, convenient access to the Williamson Health Outpatient Imaging Center ensures rapid results, reducing anxiety and expediting treatment.

Williamson Health’s Turner-Dugas Breast Health Center, nationally recognized by the Women’s Choice Awards, provides expert, compassionate care for women diagnosed with breast cancer. Additionally, convenient access to the Williamson Health Outpatient Imaging Center ensures rapid results, reducing anxiety and expediting treatment.

60s and Beyond: Staying Strong and Independent

Later in life, women often focus on managing chronic conditions, preserving mobility and bone health, preventing falls, and staying physically and mentally active.

Williamson Health offers tailored care, including routine screenings, chronic disease management, nutrition guidance, and support for healthy aging. Bone and Joint Institute of Tennessee providers and rehabilitation specialists are important resources for women who want to strengthen bone health and density, recover safely from injuries, or maintain the strength and mobility needed for daily life.

Williamson Health can help you navigate your health journey at every stage of life. Learn more at WilliamsonHealth.org.

The post Women’s Health: A Lifetime of Care appeared first on Williamson County Living.

Ingredients & Equipment

• Lemons: 10–12 organic lemons, standard or Meyer
• Alcohol: 1 bottle (750ml or 1 liter) of high-proof alcohol, such as Everclear (151 or 190 proof) or 100-proof vodka
• Sugar: 1 1/2 to 3 cups granulated white sugar, to taste
• Water: 1 1/2 to 3 cups filtered water
• Equipment: Vegetable peeler, 1-quart or 1-gallon Mason jar, fine-mesh strainer, coffee filters or cheesecloth, funnel, and glass bottles for storage

Instructions

1. Prep the Lemons: Thoroughly wash and scrub the lemons to remove any wax.
2. Infuse the Alcohol: Place the lemon peels in a large glass jar and pour the alcohol over them. Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry, for 7 to 30 days. Shake the jar every few days. The alcohol is ready when it is bright yellow, and the peels have lost their color.
3. Make Simple Syrup: In a saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved. Let the syrup cool completely to room temperature.
4. Strain and Combine: Strain the lemon-infused vodka through a sieve lined with cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a large pitcher or bowl, discarding the peels. Combine the lemon alcohol with the cooled simple syrup and stir.
5. Bottle and Age: Pour the limoncello into bottles using a funnel. While it can be served immediately, letting it age in the refrigerator or freezer for another week or two will improve the flavor. 

Tips for the Best Limoncello

• Why Organic? Organic lemons are preferred because non-organic lemons are often coated in wax and may have pesticide residues on the rind.
• Avoid the Pith: The white pith, the layer between the zest and the fruit, is bitter. If you get any on the peels, scrape it off with a paring knife.
• Storage: Keep limoncello in the freezer; it will not freeze solid due to the high alcohol content and is best served ice-cold. It can be kept in the freezer for up to a year.
• Adjusting Sweetness: The ratio of sugar to water can be adjusted based on preference. A 1:1 ratio (1 cup water to 1 cup sugar) is a good starting point.

Note: The lemons look pretty fermenting in the glass jar and add interest to a kitchen counter. You can purchase interesting bottles at World Market or online at Amazon. Design your own label and create an interesting gift.

The post A Taste of Italy at Home — Limoncello appeared first on Williamson County Living.

Dad is the foundation. The steady presence. The one everyone counts on. He shows up for grandkids’ games, helps with home repairs, plans family vacations, and is always there when someone needs him. But here’s what often gets overlooked: Dad rarely prioritizes himself.

While he’s busy taking care of everyone else, his own health might quietly slip down the priority list. And the irony is this — when Dad is strong, energized, and healthy, everyone benefits. He’s more present, more engaged, and able to show up fully for the people he loves. The good news? It’s never too late for Dad to reclaim his strength and vitality.

Why Men Don’t Prioritize Their Health

Men are great at taking care of responsibilities — jobs, families, and homes, but when it comes to their own health, not so much. They ignore the aching knee. They skip the annual checkup. They say “I’m fine” even when they’re exhausted, stiff, and running on fumes. It’s not that they don’t care — they’re just wired to push through and keep going no matter what.

After 60, the body plays by different rules.

Men lose 3-8% of their muscle mass per decade if they’re not actively working to maintain it. Testosterone declines. Recovery time slows. Chronic inflammation quietly builds, driving fatigue, joint pain, weight gain, and brain fog.

Men who were strong and active in their 60s can find themselves struggling in their 70s — not because decline is inevitable, but because they didn’t know what their bodies needed.

What Healthy Aging Really Looks Like

Aging well isn’t about slowing down or accepting limitations. It’s about staying strong and capable so Dad can keep doing the things he loves — traveling, playing with grandkids, working on projects, and feeling good in his own body. That means getting up from the floor without help, climbing stairs without getting winded, carrying groceries with ease, sleeping well, waking with energy, and staying sharp and engaged. This kind of vitality requires a proactive approach.

A Practical Plan for Men Over 60

Research shows men in their 60s, 70s, and even 80s can rebuild strength, reduce inflammation, and dramatically improve how they feel. Here’s what works:

Build functional strength. Resistance training 2-3 times per week — using bodyweight, resistance bands, or weights — rebuilds muscle, strengthens bones, and protects independence. Focus on basic moves like squats, lunges, push-ups, rows, and planks that build real-world strength.

Eat to support the body. Men over 60 need more protein than younger men. Aim for 30-35 grams per meal, along with healthy fats, fiber, and whole foods. Cut back on processed foods and sugar.

Prioritize recovery. Sleep is when the body repairs itself. Poor sleep disrupts hormones and increases inflammation. Dim the lights an hour before bed, turn off the TV, and put down the phone — screens interfere with the body’s natural sleep signals. Make sleep a non-negotiable.

Manage stress proactively. Chronic stress elevates cortisol, which drives muscle loss and fatigue. Walking, breathing exercises, or time outdoors help keep stress in check.

Support gut health. The gut drives immunity, energy, and mood. Eating fiber-rich foods—vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains—reducing processed ingredients, and staying hydrated keep the body functioning well.

Move consistently. Daily movement—walking, stretching, light activity—keeps joints healthy, circulation strong, and energy stable. Dad’s body is still capable of incredible things. It just needs the right fuel, movement, and recovery.

How Families Can Support Dad.

Supporting Dad doesn’t mean nagging. It means making healthy choices easy and enjoyable. Partner with him. “Let’s take a walk together” beats “You should exercise more.” Make it about what he gains. Frame it as “staying strong for the grandkids” or “having energy to travel.” Celebrate small wins. Acknowledge every workout, every healthy meal, every good choice. Create the environment. Stock the fridge with whole foods. Make movement part of family time.

Dad has spent years being the foundation for everyone else. Now it’s time to make sure that foundation stays strong. Decline isn’t inevitable. With the right approach, Dad can stay strong, energized, and fully engaged in life for decades to come.

Strong fathers build strong families. And it’s never too late to start!

LORI ZABKA is the founder of Hearth & Health, a wellness practice serving adults 60+ in Middle Tennessee. Her book, The Inflammaging Fix: Six Steps to Reverse Chronic Inflammation and Age with Power, launched in April 2026. For more information, visit hearthandhealth.org or book a free connection call at (434) 227-8141.

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