If you’ve ever walked through the charming storefront of Moss & Mint, cheered at an FM field hockey or lacrosse game, or spotted a German Shorthaired Pointer named Penny trotting proudly down Equestrian Ridge, there’s a good chance you’ve encountered the Mark family.

John and Alyssa Mark, along with their four children—Charlotte, Olivia, JC, and Everett—have lived in Manlius for nearly seven years. Originally from Annapolis, Maryland (John) and San Antonio, Texas (Alyssa), the couple met when John was stationed in Texas with the U.S. Air Force. They’ve been married for over 18 years, and their life together has spanned deployments, relocations, and raising four energetic children—eventually bringing them to Central New York.

Their household is always full of life. Charlotte and Olivia are both in high school at Fayetteville-Manlius, JC is a middle schooler at Eagle Hill, and Everett brings his boundless energy to Enders Road Elementary. Between the four of them, sports are a way of life—lacrosse, field hockey, football, soccer, and basketball keep the calendar packed. When not at games or practices, the kids enjoy traveling, spending time with friends, and making the most of every season in Upstate New York.

The family also includes three beloved dogs: a spunky Chihuahua named Pickles, a lively German Shorthaired Pointer named Penny, and a “slightly overweight” Silver Labrador named Dixie, who ensures there’s never a dull moment. “It’s a full house,” Alyssa says with a smile. “And somehow it all works—chaos and all.”

John served 20 years as a Special Operations combat pilot in the U.S. Air Force and retired just two years ago. He now owns a small interior painting business and serves on the board of directors for the FM Youth Lacrosse Association. “Being part of the local lacrosse community has been a great way to stay active and give back,” he says. “It’s been rewarding to shift from military service to community involvement.”

While John’s career brought the family across the country, Alyssa has always been the creative anchor. After years as a stay-at-home mom, she followed a longtime passion for design and became the owner and visionary behind Moss & Mint, a home décor, furniture, and gift store in the village of Manlius. With a warm, approachable style and an eye for timeless design, Alyssa has built the store into a destination for those looking to bring beauty and character into their homes.

What makes Moss & Mint special is Alyssa’s commitment to supporting fellow women entrepreneurs—especially stay-at-home moms and military spouses. Many of the items in the shop are sourced from local artists and women-owned businesses, including handmade jewelry, tallow soaps, original artwork, and custom furniture. “It means a lot to me to showcase the work of women who are creating beautiful things—often between naptime and school pick-up,” she says.

What began as a personal passion has grown into a thriving family-run business that reflects Alyssa’s artistic sensibility and values. Everyone helps—from unpacking deliveries and assembling pieces to prepping for events and greeting customers. “Moss & Mint has become more than just a shop—it’s a way for us to connect with the community and with each other.”

“A beautiful space has the power to change the way people feel,” Alyssa adds. “Moss & Mint lets me help others create that feeling in their homes—and it’s been incredibly fulfilling to grow this business in a community we love.”

For the Mark family, time together is sacred—whether it’s cheering on the sidelines, grilling in the backyard, or taking a weekend drive to explore someplace new. “We feel most connected when we’re all together and no one has to be anywhere else,” John says. “Even something simple like a lazy Sunday afternoon means a lot when everyone’s home.”

They’re active in the broader community as well. The Marks attend St. Ann’s Church in Manlius and are regularly involved in youth sports and volunteering. They also support Clear Path for Veterans, a local organization dedicated to helping those who served. “It’s important to us that our kids understand the value of giving back and being part of something bigger than themselves,” Alyssa says.

Their favorite things to do around town include getting ice cream, strolling the village, and supporting small businesses—like Pavone’s Pizza, owned by family friends. “There’s something really special about this area,” Alyssa reflects. “The schools are excellent, the people are genuine, and life just feels a little more balanced here.”

When asked what they’re most grateful for, the answer is simple: “Our family,” Alyssa says. “Even when life is moving fast, it’s the time we spend together that means the most. We’re incredibly lucky to have each other—and to call this community home, where neighbors feel like family.”