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Gilbert Lifestyle | August 2021
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LIFESTYLE LETTER
AUGUST 2021 PUBLISHER
Robin Belley | robin.belley@lifestylepubs.com SALES DIRECTOR
End of Summer with our families & fur babies IT SEEMS A LITTLE REDUNDANT TO POINT OUT THAT IS HAS BEEN HOTTER THAN USUAL. Being in Arizona, we shouldn’t even notice…right? Come on…WE NOTICED!! Ok, small rant finished. Let’s talk about something fun. This issue is dedicated to some of our cutest residents. We’ve featured the kids and pets of Gilbert throughout these pages for you to enjoy.
Kristy Belley | kristy.belley@lifestylepubs.com ACCO UNT MANAGER
Jen David | jen.david@lifestylepubs.com ADMINISTRATI VE A SSISTANT
Gabriel Belley | Gabe.Belley@gmail.com AD DESIGNER
Evan Deuvall L AYO UT DESIGNER
Jayme Emery CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Kristy Belley, Michelle Talsma Everson, Stephanie Harvey, Jeff Heggie CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Stephanie Harvey, Emily Currie, Jen Crutcher
We wanted to introduce you to one of the fastest growing sports in the world, and one of our fastest riders in Gilbert! A special Gilbert family shares their story of the long journey to reach their dream of being parents. Also, we know heading back to school has some extra stress if your children are trying to make the team. We reached out for some advice on how to
CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry
support them from home during this time.
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore
If there’s one thing that we’ve learned from living in Gilbert, it’s that we sure do love
OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson
ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor
our pets! This issue also highlights some of the best resources for our furry friends,
AD MANAGER Chad Jensen
from dog grooming and boarding to specialty pet stores and pet-friendly patios! I am
REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams
sure you can find something special for you and your furry best friend to enjoy.
WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell
As summer winds down and we prepare for another school year ahead, we remind you to take the time and enjoy some quality time with your kids—and pets—this month. We hope you will check out our new regular feature called local experiences. We
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only have room to share a few in print but there are lots of fun things from all over the valley for you to peek at online. As always, thank you for allowing us to share some time with you, and we’ll see you around town!
ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MASSACHUSETTS | MICHIGAN MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA | NEVADA | NEW JERSEY NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | PENNSYLVANIA
Robin & Kristy Belley, Publishers
CityLifestyle.com/Gilbert ON THE COVER Girl by Salt River PHOTOGRAPHY BY BLUE HAUGHT 4
Gilbert Lifestyle | August 2021
SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON
Proverbs 3:5-6 Gilbert Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Gilbert area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Gilbert Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
INSIDE THE ISSUE AUGUST 2021
FEATURES 14 The Johnson’s An inspiring story of love, family and adoption in our own community.
20 Fantastic Experiences for Furry Friends Must-try products and places for your four-legged family member
22 Biker Girl Gilbert Girl Evie Currie is riding hard and bringing home the bling at the BMX biking tracks
22 26
26 Batch Cookie Shop: A Tasting with Our Favorite Gilbert Guys Locally Owned Cookie Shop rolls out the dough for our Cookie Tasters
20
DEPARTMENTS
14
4
Lifestyle Letter
8
Good Times
10
Local Experiences
12
Local’s Choice
14
Hometown Hero
18
Open House
20 Animal Kingdom 22 Local Limelight 26 Food & Wine 32 Lifestyle Calendar 34 Healthy Lifestyle
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GOOD TIMES
Schitt's Creek Trivia Night! The Hair of the Dog won Gilbert over in June with their busiest trivia night yet! Why? Well, it was a Schitt's Creek theme of course! The pet-friendly wine, beer and coffee house is the perfect neighborhood bar with a relaxing and welcoming atmosphere. Follow their instagram @hairofthedog.az for more upcoming events this month! As Alexis would say, we love this journey for us.
GET INSPIRED EAT + DRINK SHOP LOCAL City Lifestyle 8
Gilbert Lifestyle | August 2021
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LOCAL EXPERIENCES
KIDS + PETS WHILE IT’S NOT OVER YET, SUMMER IS SOON COMING TO AN END AND WHAT BETTER WAY TO BID ADIEU THAN TO SPEND TIME WITH FRIENDS, FAMILY, AND OUR FAVORITE FOUR-LEGGED FRIENDS! Embrace the end of the season by gathering the kids, dogs, and adults alike for some indoor and outdoor recreation and exploration, pet-friendly destinations that embrace our furry friends, and our end of summer and return to school summer party ideas!
END-OF-SUMMER HURRAH + Grab your friends and family and head to Chase Field to watch our Arizona Diamondbacks play. The regular season runs through October! 401 E Jefferson St, Phoenix, AZ 85004 + Plan a night at the Royal Palms Resort on August 27th for “Jazz Under the Stars” - part of their Summer Sunset Concert Series. Phoenix, AZ + Take your family, significant other or best friend and get away for the weekend at The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess. Enjoy drinks by the pool, golf, and the best dinner spots! 7575 E Princess Drive, Scottsdale, AZ + Plan an end of summer picnic complete with tennis courts, deluxe waterplay areas, playgrounds, and pickleball courts for the whole family to enjoy at Gilbert Regional Park 3005 E Queen Creek Rd, Gilbert, AZ 85298 + Buy your tickets and head to Ak-Chin for an end of summer country concert. We recommend the Dierks Bentley - Beers on Me Tour! 2121 N 83rd Ave PhoeniX, AZ 10
Gilbert Lifestyle | August 2021
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KIDS AT PLAY + The perfect opportunity to keep the kids busy at the SEA LIFE Arizona aquarium with a variety of fascinating species including sharks, rays and octopus! 5000 S. Arizona Mills Circle, Ste. 145 Tempe, AZ + A world where one of a kind, hand-painted 3D art looks so real and playing black light mini golf at Imagine 3D Mini Golf 785 West Warner Road Gilbert, AZ + Rediscover the world of science and imagination with your kiddos at the Arizona Science Center. Create a hands-on, memorable experience for all ages! 600 E. Washington St. Phoenix, AZ + Make it a family outing! Mom can shop and the kids can keep cool in the splash pad in the center of the mall at San Tan Village 2795 S Market St Gilbert, AZ + Trampoline parks may be the most popular summer activity yet! Keep
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your kids cool while also helping them release that summertime energy at Altitude Trampoline Park 701 North Gilbert Road Gilbert, AZ
PET-FRIENDLY EXPERIENCES + Lifetime Memories of your fur baby with Sammy Clark Photography. Sammy has a unique way to capture your best furry friend alone or with your family. 509 East Harwell Road Gilbert, AZ + Stop in at this dog-friendly wine, beer, and coffee house. This will be you and your furry family member’s new favorite spot at Hair of the Dog. 3133 S Lindsay Rd #107, Gilbert, AZ 85295 + Pet friendly favorite with a robust outdoor patio, misters, treats for your pup and water bowls! You’ll never look at brunch the same at OHSO Brewery. 335 N Gilbert Rd Gilbert, AZ + Spend some time at this unique DIY wash experience at The Dog Spaw or Let them Primp your pup. This is the perfect way to pamper your furry friend. 335 N Gilbert Rd #106, Gilbert, AZ 85234
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+ Going out of town? Take your fur babies to Heartstrings Pet Resort and have peace of mind throughout your trip. They’re truly the best! 930 E Riggs Road Chandler, AZ CityLifestyle.com/Gilbert
11
LOCAL’S CHOICE TIPS FOR RAISING A CONFIDENT ATHLETE AND DISCOVERING THEIR WHY'S AND SETTING ACHIEVABLE GOALS
Preparing your Athletes for Sports Tryouts ARTICLE JEFF HEGGIE | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED FOR MANY KIDS, SPORTS ARE
which athletes should be working on their mental game?
A HUGE PART OF THEIR LIFE. They love to play and they have
That’s easy... All Of Them! In my program, The Confident Athlete ( www.JeffHeggie.
big dreams about their future as
com/ConfidentAthlete ) I work with athletes ranging from middle school to professionals.
an athlete. The hard work and
Developing self-confidence and a growth mindset is an advantage for athletes of all ages
dedication to the physical aspect
and at all levels. Plus, these are skills that they take far beyond their sport.
of their sport is an important part for them to become the best that
how do i help my son/daughter get their drive back?
they can be. But the mental side of the game is just as important
Some of these young athletes have dedicated years to the sport they love and have
and often the differentiating factor
had big goals and dreams. But after this past year they feel defeated and have lost their
between successful athletes. This
drive. The most important things I help these athletes figure out and you should talk to
is where I come in and have the
your son/daughter about are: - Why do you play? - Who are you playing for? (yourself or
opportunity to work with athletes
someone else) It’s amazing how many are playing because they don’t want to disappoint
to build their confidence, create a
a parent or coach. - What are your goals? (They MUST have clearly defined, written out
powerful mindset, and unlock their
goals - What is your ‘Why” behind each goal?
full potential. After this past year and the mental roller coaster these
how do you help an athlete build their self-confidence?
student athletes went though, this is more important than ever. If you
Confidence is being prepared. But there is a lot more to it than just putting in the prac-
have a son or daughter who will
tice. What is happening in the mind has a major impact on confidence. Creating powerful
be trying-out for a sport, consider
self-talk is one of the first things I work on with my athletes. Other areas of importance
what they’ve been through and
are body language, visualization, habits, and how they all tie together.
how you might be able to help them prepare for the upcoming season.
show them you care Regardless of their age or skill level, talk to your athlete about how this past year has
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impacted them. Discuss these ideas and how they could help their mental preparation
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erful mindset and unlocking their full potential, register them for The Confident Athlete Program at www.JeffHeggie.com/ConfidentAthlete.
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Gilbert Lifestyle | August 2021
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13
HOMETOWN HERO
t h e j o h n s o n’s dan, jaime, & declan
Gilbert Lifestyle | August 2021
ARTICLE STEPHANIE HARVEY
FA M I LY 14
JAIME AND DAN MET HERE IN GILBERT, ARIZONA WHERE JAIME WAS BORN AND RAISED. Two weeks after their first date, they were engaged. The true definition of “when you know, you know”. They were married soon after and began building their new life together. Dan served in our military, while Jaime served as the co-pastor at Life Community, the church she grew up in. They were happy, in love and ready to
meant to be parents and eventually decided they
begin creating a family.
were going to do whatever it took.
Before they knew it, 3 years had passed and
Since IVF (in-vitro fertilization) is the most
although the two of them had built a family with
expensive option and is often not covered by
each other, they hadn’t conceived yet. They
insurance, the Johnson’s opted for less invasive
always imagined that it would just happen as
treatments to start. They tried multiple rounds of
soon as they were ready, but it certainly wasn’t as
medication, multiple IUI’s (intrauterine insemina-
easy as they thought.
tion) and still no success.
If you’ve found yourself in the world of fertility, you know it’s not for the faint of heart.
They were tired, but they didn’t give up hope and before they knew it, Dan has finished school
But similar to how they felt about each other
and been offered an incredible job opportunity.
when they first met, they just knew they were
So incredible, that IVF (the treatment with the highest price tag, but also the highest success rate) was back on the table. They completed their first round and it resulted in two healthy embryos that would be implanted in Jaime and hopefully result in a viable pregnancy. Jaime and Dan opted to implant both at the same time to give them the best chance possible. And two weeks later, they received the news. They were officially pregnant. One of the embryos attached and based on the initial labs, everything was looking good. Until around 12 weeks when the Johnson’s returned home from vacation. After a traumatic and painful day, Jaime and Dan found out they were having a tubal pregnancy and that the pregnancy could not continue. Needless to say, the loss Jaime and Dan felt that day brought them to their knees. They knew another round of IVF wasn’t in the cards, but the
A D O P TI O N
AN INSPIRING STORY OF LOVE, FAMILY AND ADOPTION IN OUR OWN COMMUNITY.
CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/Gilbert
15
HOMETOWN HERO (CONTINUED)
16
Gilbert Lifestyle | August 2021
conviction that they were meant to be parents felt unshakeable. Throughout the process their friends and family has always asked them if they would consider adoption or fostering, but at that time, they were focused on having a biological child. That being said, they knew God may have other plans and he would make it known when he did. After they spent some time reflecting, they realized that they had a beautiful life that they needed to share with a child, one way or another, and Jaime and Dan attended their first foster meeting at Christian Family Care Agency in Phoenix. After hearing Jaime and Dan’s story, the agency did not recommend fostering, but instead told Jaime and Dan that private infant adoption seemed like a better fit. While at first that was hard to hear, they knew that the goal of fostering was reunification, and their goal was to adopt. Before they knew it, they were
Dan and Jaime got to the hospital as fast as pos-
pivoting again and diving headfirst into the world of
sible and while the nurses were changing shifts, the
private adoption.
pregnancy counselor gave them more of the back-
Although private adoption seemed to be a better fit
story. The baby had no prenatal care, he was born at
for Jaime and Dan, it was by no means a walk in the
35 weeks, but he appeared to be very healthy! The
park. After being certified, they waited from November
parents had already signed over consent. This was
to June and were starting to feel discouraged.
Dan and Jaime’s baby if they said yes.
Then, one hot summer day in Arizona around 4:00 pm, the phone rang. It was a pregnancy counselor at the agency. She asked Jaime if she would be open to a Native American baby. Without hesitation, Jaime said, “of course!”
It was the easiest decision of their life. Dan and Jaime looked at each other in awe asking themselves, “is this OUR baby?” They fell in love instantly and named their new baby boy, Declan, which means “Full of Goodness”.
She preceded to tell Jaime that a baby boy was
They went home that night, made the most expen-
born the night before, the birthmother did not know
sive Walmart trip of their lives and spent the night
she was pregnant and this morning, she made an
setting up the nursery so that they could bring their
adoption plan. After looking at a couple of different
son home the next day. When they returned to the
families, the counselor told Jaime that she and her
hospital the next morning, they had the opportunity to
boyfriend picked THEM. She asked if they could be
meet the birth parents and what started as a private
there within a couple of hours to sign the paperwork
adoption would soon turn into a lifelong relationship.
and meet their new son.
Jaime and Dan learned through their experi-
Jaime thought the woman on the other end
ence that things don’t always happen the way you
of the phone was kidding. But she leapt into
planned, but if you just trust the process, it will turn
action immediately.
out better than you could have ever imagined. Baby Declan is the greatest blessing the Johnson’s have ever received and the three of them still live in Gilbert – happier and more in love than ever.
CityLifestyle.com/Gilbert
17
OPEN HOUSE
ARTICLE LYNNETTE CARRINGTON | PHOTOGRAPHY JEN WILSON
t
gilbert e h
nursery
GILBERT THEMED NURSERY BY LOCAL LIFESTYLE DESIGNER JEN CRUTCHER JEN CRUTCHER HAS ALWAYS HAD A PASSION AND A KEEN EYE FOR DESIGN. It took being quarantined in 2020 and an encouraging nudge from her husband to ultimately leave her job and pursue her dream of owning a business doing something she absolutely loves. “Windmill Decor & Renovations is more than just a career for me, it's a passion I want to share with as many people as possible,” says Crutcher. “I truly believe that every house deserves to be a warm, bright and welcoming place. I want to have an impact on people’s lives by creating a space to call home.” 18
Gilbert Lifestyle | August 2021
With the birth of her first child coming, Crutcher took this opportunity to create a truly unique Gilbert Inspired Nursery. This nursery design is expertly orchestrated by Crutcher to create a space as beautiful, creative, and unique as the pending addition to her family! The Gilbert nursery design includes a peaceful retreat, touches of whimsy and punctuations of color. The expert eye of Crutcher designs are spaces for the entire family and your precious new baby will love. Art, décor and furniture are sourced from a variety of vendors, and Crutcher loves to look locally, too. Crutcher
continues,
“Hiring
a
designer isn’t just about making spaces pretty, it’s also making them functional for your personal life."
CityLifestyle.com/Gilbert
19
ANIMAL KINGDOM
PUFF & FLUFF GROOMING AND PET SITTING
Fa n ta s t i c Experiences for Furry Friends
01
puffandfluffspa.com With a location in Chandler and five more across the Valley, Puff & Fluff Grooming and Pet Sitting provides locals with pet pampering services and a boutique-style shopping experience for their pet needs. From grooming accessories to treats, Puff & Fluff goes beyond the bubbles and ensures pets are cared for in and out of the spa.
MUST-TRY PRODUCTS AND PLACES FOR YOUR FOUR-LEGGED FAMILY MEMBER
shesallcat.com She’s All Cat is the online hub of Missy Pruitt, founder of
ARTICLE MICHELLE TALSMA EVERSON
La Gattara Cat Cafe and cat culture expert. She’s All Cat offers consultation and products for Cat Lady Life, from pet coaching at home to fashion on the go. And while La Gattara Cat Cafe is located in Phoenix, it is worth the drive for coffee and all things cat-tastic. LA GATTARA CAT CAFE AND SHE’S ALL CAT
BEFORE I HAD MY TWO-LEGGED SON, WE HAD OUR “KITTY DAUGHTERS.” Now, at age 11, he calls them his “kitty sisters,” and they’re still just as spoiled as they were the day we brought them home 14 years ago. In the spirit of being a paw-rent, we rounded up some of our favorite pet vendors and experiences to share with you and your furry family members.
20
Gilbert Lifestyle | August 2021
02
GILBERT FARMERS MARKET
03
05
COSMO DOG PARK
gilbertaz.gov
gilbertmarket.com
Located on the Northeast corner of Ray Road and the
A perfect spot to take a well-behaved pooch, Gilbert
Loop 202, Cosmo Dog Park is one of the most popular
Farmers Market happens downtown every Saturday from
parks in Gilbert. Named after local K9 hero Cosmo, who
7-11 a.m. (summer hours). They offer not only a pet-friendly
was the town’s first police dog, the park is described as, “a
environment (leashed pups welcome!), but many of the
special oasis that has captured and celebrated the unique
vendors have organic and farm-fresh treats and pet prod-
bond between dogs and humans.”
ucts for sale. Pro tip: many vendors also offer free snacks
HAUSPANTHER
04
for furry friends! Visit their website for the latest specific vendors and products. dogtopia.com/gilbert Located at 207 E. Williams Field Road, the local Dogtopia is the hometown iteration of the national chain. Whether you’re returning to the office after working from home, need a place to board your favorite pooch, or just a place for your furry family member to work off some excess energy, Dogtopia of Gilbert has you covered. DOGTOPIA
hauspanther.com and shop.hauspanther.com Hauspanther founder Kate Benjamin has been seeking out stylish finds for cats and cat lovers since 2007, according to her website. “As the co-author of New York Times bestsellers Catification and Catify to Satisfy she knows a thing or two about design for cats.” Benjamin shares that she
06
has two parts to her business: “Hauspanther.com is an online resource that’s tailored specifically for those who share our love of cats and design. We also have an online store at shop.hauspanther.com, where we sell our own line of cat products, as well as products from other companies that we love.” She adds that the Hauspanther cat toy designs are handmade at their design studio, located in the Valley of the Sun. CityLifestyle.com/Gilbert
21
LOCAL LIMELIGHT
22
Gilbert Lifestyle | August 2021
ARTICLE KRISTY BELLEY | PHOTOGRAPHY EMILY AND JOHN CURRIE
r e k i b girl GILBERT GIRL EVIE CURRIE IS RIDING HARD AND BRINGING HOME THE BLING AT THE BMX BIKING TRACKS
WHEN YOU THINK ABOUT BMX RACING THE FIRST THING THAT POPS INTO YOU MIND PROBABLY ISN’T A CUTE LITTLE GIRL WITH A SMILE FOR DAYS. However, that is the exact vision you should see as TINY Evelyn Currie (Evie) is tearing up the track every Monday and Friday at the Chandler Race Track. At just 4 years old, as of this issue, she has followed the lead of her older brother Declan and dad John to find a love for the sport. The Currie family spends their time together racing and traveling the country for the kids to compete in regional and national events. Mom, Emily, shared her favorite part of the sport is how the families support each other. “It’s like having a large extended family, says Currie. We come together to share equipment for growing kids, help with bike repairs, and even trade out bikes for races. Its a competition but it doesn’t feel that way. as all the families root for all the kids. It is truly just about good fun and great exercise.” CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/Gilbert
23
LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED)
Evie’s favorite part, to be exact, is getting a Ring POP for trying hard, the trip to the snack stand, and hanging with her friends. Bringing home the trophies is just a bonus. The sport includes girl exclusive races, however, in most events Evie is right out their with the boys, and winning. Chandler BMX was the first ever BMX track the American Bicycle Association (ABA) opened in 1977 for the purpose of holding sanctioned BMX events for kids of all ages. The sport of BMX racing is one of the fastest growing bicycle sports in the World, and in 2008 became an Olympic Sport. This is definitely a sport to be added to your Olympic watch list Its all about the kids, keeping them clean while playing in the dirt. This is bicycle racing at it best. A trial 1 day membership is available if you want to just try it and see. At the track they even have loaner bikes and helmets for your trial run. Go and give it a try. It is probably not like any other sport you have tried with your kids. No sitting on the bench this day. Its all about the rider, and how bad do you want to Win.
te i r o v fa is s ’ , e t i c v a x “E e e b P o t O , t P r pa ing R e a h g t n , i t d t ar ge h g n yi r t ck a r o n f s he g t n i o t g n p ha tr i d n a , ” . d s n d a n t s rie f r e h with 24
Gilbert Lifestyle | August 2021
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FOOD & WINE
B ATC H C O O K I E S H O P : A TA S T I N G W I T H O U R FAVO R I T E G I L B E R T G U YS ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY STEPHANIE HARVEY
LOCALLY OWNED COOKIE SHOP
AFTER LIVING IN GILBERT FOR A FEW YEARS NOW, IT’S CLEAR THAT THERE IS NO SHORTAGE OF DESSERT SPOTS WITH THEIR OWN UNIQUE FLAVORS, RECIPES AND BUSINESS MODELS. But our latest discovery was one that we couldn’t help but share (and taste)! Batch is one of the newer bakeries to the scene, but based on the crowd inside, I have no
ROLLS OUT THE DOUGH FOR
doubt it’s already one of Gilbert’s best. From the moment you walk in the
OUR COOKIE TASTERS
begin to grumble after you get a peek at the treats in the glass case at the
door, you instantly feel like you belong, not to mention, your stomach will front of the store.
26
Gilbert Lifestyle | August 2021
Jessica and Brad Peterson alongside Brad’s brother Craig and his
We asked a few of our favorite Gilbert boys to meet us at Batch
wife Boston knew that they wanted to created something their families
for a cookie tasting so that we could recommend the BEST cookie
could build and enjoy together. With Jessica’s background as a cake
for our community to go and try. Needless to say, it didn’t take much
decorator and a collection of family recipes passed down through gen-
convincing! They were more than willing to taste all of the cookies
erations, a specialty cookie business was at the top of their list. Plus,
necessary to make the best recommendation.
between these two families they have 10 children who I’m sure may
Brothers Trey and Nixon (you may recognize them from the cover
have helped solidify the decision that this was the right move for them.
of our June issue) alongside their friends Cole and Warren met us at
Their goal from the beginning was to create a place where people
Batch for a fun (and sugar) filled tasting experience! We even had the
feel good right when they walk in the door and after visiting this
pleasure of having the resident Batch cookie monster (A.K.A Graham
sweet shop, I was so touched by the way they made every customer
– one of our Batch kiddos) join in the fun!
feel. Not only are the owners and staff incredibly kind and welcom-
If I wasn’t already sold on this sweet family business, this would
ing, but the kitchen is open so that cookie-lovers can see everything
have sealed the deal. We walked in to find co-owner Jessica
being made from scratch. It reminded me of being in my parent’s
Peterson waiting with a table filled with all of their cookie specials
kitchen growing up. It was nostalgic and automatically made you feel
for the week! I saw the boys faces light up immediately and I knew
like home. Plus, on a hot Summer day, it's a great way to keep your
this was going to be a successful day. Each of the boys tried a variety
kiddos entertained!
of cookies so that we could record their favorites and tell all of you
Now I knew that we needed to taste a variety of their cookies before writing this, but there was no way I could do it on my own. So we enlisted some backup. Some very cute backup.
which cookie they recommend for your next desert outing. After many cookies were tasted, we realized very quickly that while they enjoyed them all, there was definitely a crowd favorite!
CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/Gilbert
27
FOOD & WINE (CONTINUED)
The winner? Their classic Snickerdoodle cookie. We were warned by cookie monster Graham that the snickerdoodle was the best one, but our band of brothers confirmed it. That being said, Nixon would also like to give a shout out to the chocolate chip cookie as well. Needless
to
say,
this
was
the
PERFECT activity for a hot Summer day in Arizona and an even better way for us to taste test the cookies. Our kids really do know best when it comes to sugary treats, don’t they?
And as if it couldn’t get any better, when Jessica found out I was gluten-free, she quickly brought out their gluten free chocolate and oat bar for me to try. I was shocked! It isn’t often I find a gluten free dessert when I’m out and about. Jessica explained that her daughter also has a gluten intolerance so they always make sure to have one allergy-friendly option in the lineup. As someone who had to heavily adjust their diet as an adult, I appreciate the businesses that recognize that there is a need for people like me in the community. That made me a customer for LIFE. The Peterson family has done an incredible job creating a business with a desire to truly immerse themselves in the Gilbert community. In fact, if you follow their Instagram page, @batchcookieshop, you’ll find that they post weekly service prompts that they refer to as “Acts of Sweetness”. These prompts encourage people to get involved in their community and give back by serving each other. You're even entered into a drawing to win a cookie for yourself! One of their recent posts encouraged their followers to drop treats on your neighbor's doorstep and take a picture while you're in the act! I guarantee that your kids will love looking forward to these weekly ways to give back.
28
Gilbert Lifestyle | August 2021
SEND THEM BACK TO SCHOOL WITH A SMILE!
ACTUAL PATIENTS
You can tell after talking with this family for even just a few minutes that they are passionate about creating more than just delicious recipes. They are truly cultivating a sweet community of cookie lovers who love their town. I felt it immediately and so did our cookie tasters and their families. And that's really what small businesses are all about right? We couldn’t be happier that Batch found its home in Gilbert. I have a feeling we are going to continue to see big things from the Peterson family over the next several years... Now go get that snickerdoodle cookie. Or chocolate chip – as Nixon would say.
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TWO OFFICES IN THE SOUTHEAST VALLEY TWO4015 OFFICES IN THE Chandler: S. Arizona Ave. #7 SOUTHEAST VALLEY Gilbert: 3336 E. Chandler Heights Rd, Bldg 2., #111
CityLifestyle.com/Gilbert
29
TOP TEN HOMES SOLD LAST MONTH IN GILBERT 1. 2866 E ROBIN CT ...............................$3,000,000 2. 3830 S 164TH ST................................$2,900,000 3. 4439 E TURNBERRY CT ..................$2,500,000 4. 3361 E SAGEBRUSH ST ....................$2,043,752 5. 2840 E PORTOLA VALLEY CT.......$1,950,000 6. 2675 E HUMMINGBIRD WAY..........$1,725,000 7. 2313 E MEAD DR ................................$1,725,000 8. 2229 E CRESCENT WAY..................$1,605,000 9. 233 E BRIDGEPORT PKWY ............$1,515,000 10. 3264 E INDIGO BAY CT .................$1,400,000
In between haboobs and monsoon season, night time is the best time to take a swim. Here is a look at some unique water features in a home that was recently sold by The Home Selling Team. Home Sold $1,200,000 If you are looking to buy a home with an outdoor area more suited to your families needs, call me today 480-459-4998. We will help you find the perfect space.
CALL ME TODAY 480-459-4998 OR
VISIT www.TheHomeSellingTeamAZ.com
#1 Realtor in Gilbert
JANINE IGLIANE cell: 480-298-0910 • janineigliane@kw.com
THE HOME SELLING TEAM
*2017 BREA Award Winner Gilbert AZ #1 Reator
/TheHomeSellingTeam
@thehomesellingteamaz 4365 E. Pecos Rd #133 Gilbert, AZ 85295
Each Office Independently Owned and Operated. If your house is currently listed with another broker this is not intended as a solicitation.
MONDAYS MONDAY YOGA WITH GINGER Gilbert Historical Museum
AUGUST
LIFESTYLE CALENDAR
Have a case of the Mondays? Join
instructor Ginger Smith as she guides
the class on relaxation techniques
Medical
Chiropractic
Physical Rehab
Massage
providing Integrated healthcare for the entire family
and muscle conditioning. Ginger is
a certified yoga and group fitness
instructor and her training includes
restorative & yin flow, yoga & weights, and chair yoga. Her classes
$20
incorporate movement, breathing,
and emotional balance. Open to all
NEW PATIENT
+ RECEIVE A COMPLIMENTARY 60 MINUTE MASSAGE.
Second Location Now Open 4049 E. Williams Field Rd. Suite 101 Gilbert, AZ 85295
levels. Bring your own mat.
THU, FRI AND SAT FREAKY FRIDAY The Hale Theatre
When an overworked mother and her teenage daughter magically swap bodies, they have just one day to put things right again. Freaky Friday, a new musical based on the celebrated novel by Mary Rodgers and the hit Disney films, is a heartfelt, comedic, and unexpectedly emotional update on an American classic. Running from July 1st - August 14th.
SATURDAYS SATURDAY SUPPER! Hair of the Dog
480-597-9497 ALSO LOCATED IN CHANDLER - RAY & MCQUEEN www.lifequestarizona.com 32
Gilbert Lifestyle | August 2021
Grab your friends and family and spend Saturday night at Hair of the Dog in Gilbert for Saturday Supper! Every Saturday from 5pm-8pm, in the Hair of the Dog parking lot, you'll find a local food truck so that you can grab a bite before heading into the brewery for a beer or a glass of wine!
24 FLAGSTAFF GOES TO THE MOON Gilbert Historical Museum
The Apollo missions to the moon took a lot of preparation and cooperation from training sites all over the U.S. One training site was right here in Arizona! Lowell Observatory historian, Kevin Schindler, will facilitate this fascinating program about Flagstaff’s role in the moon landing missions. Attendees will learn about mapping of the lunar surface, astronaut training, and instrument testing.
25 AROUND THE WORLD WITH DARLA HOFFMAN Peacock Wine Bar
Come and taste wines from France, Italy, Spain and Argentina. You will learn about regional influences and winemaking nuances that occur in different parts of the world. Understand how to read bottles and determine which variety it is, how dry or sweet, from what part of the country it was made and master that restaurant wine list. See you there!
29 ROCKIN DISCO YOGA AT WHISKEY ROW Whiskey Row
Come join us for Rockin Sunday Yoga at Whiskey Row Gilbert at 8:30am! We will be bringing a fun, all-levels class and will have mats if needed. You do not need to have experience or flexibility. Just show up and be ready to have a great time! Pre and post yoga drinks and food are optional but highly encouraged.
CityLifestyle.com/Gilbert
33
HEALTHY LIFESTYLE
ARTICLE JENNIFER ANDERSON MSPH RDN
TE AC H I N G YO U R K I D S TO E AT H E A LTH Y
AS PARENTS, ONE OF OUR BIGGEST PRIORITIES
IS ENSURING THAT OUR KIDS ARE GETTING THE NUTRIENTS THEY NEED. But getting them to eat their
fruits and vegetables isn’t always easy, especially if your kids are picky eaters like many seem to be.
Let’s talk about the benefits of introducing healthy
food to your kids at an early age. Read on to find helpful information about feeding picky eaters.
3 T I P S F O R G E T T I N G YO U R K I D S TO E AT H E A LT H Y F O O D S Real Easy
MAKE SNACKS AND MEALTIME FUN
Weekdays
We all know that kids like to play and have fun, so why not make food fun? Whether you’re turning broccoli into a microphone at dinner, or playing tic-tac-toe with edible carrot sticks, kids get into it. DON’T GIVE UP Parents often assume that if a child doesn’t eat a food the first or second time it’s served, the child doesn’t like the food. Many children may
Meal Plan
G R E E K YO G U R T RANCH DIP This goes great with raw veggies like celery,
need to see or taste a food 10 or 20 times before they are willing to eat it.
carrots, broccoli, snap peas, cauliflower, or any
FORCING HEALTHY FOODS ON KIDS OFTEN BACKFIRES
great with whole-grain crackers and pita chips!
veggie your kids might like raw. It also goes
Often, making a child eat food or eat a certain amount of food backfires. It may backfire in the short run by making a child more
INGREDIENTS
selective and less likely to eat the foods you want them to eat.
+ ½ cup full-fat Greek yogurt + ½ to 1 Tablespoon of Trader Joe’s Onion
S TA R T H E A LT H Y H A B I T S E A R LY
Salt (alternatives include Ranch dressing mix, onion salt, or a combination of onion powder and garlic powder)
The key takeaway here is to introduce healthy foods to your child at an early age. Be patient with your pickiest of eaters, and re-intro-
METHOD
duce a food several times. Stick with it; their long-term health habits
1. Mix Greek yogurt with seasoning. Serve.
depend on it! 34
Gilbert Lifestyle | August 2021
INTRODUCTORY ONE-HOUR
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$159
A 95*$199.95 VALUE
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handandstone.com *Introductory offers valid for first time visit only and not valid towards gift cards. Valid at Gilbert location only. See spa for details and resrtrictions. Expires: 9/12/2021. Sessions include time for consultation and dressing. Independently Owned & Operated. ©2021 Hand & Stone Corp. Franchises Available.
INTRODUCTORY ONE-HOUR
MASSAGE
or FACIAL
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$
95 A
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It’s time to think Inspired by Community
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ADVERTISE WITH US to deliver your message to the most affluent families in our community.
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CityLifestyle.com/Gilbert
35
TOP SELLING HOMES
with
BACK TO SCHOOL BEDROOMS $1,110,000 4365 EAST ESTRELLA COURT, GILBERT, AZ 85296
CASCADE
6 BEDROOMS 3 BATHROOMS
$650,000 2168 EAST EVERGLADE LANE, GILBERT, AZ 85298
ADORA TRAILS
4 BEDROOMS 3 BATHROOMS
$730,000
3116 EAST STANFORD AVENUE, GILBERT, AZ 85234
TONE RANCH ESTATES
4 BEDROOMS 3 BATHROOMS
$783,000
$989,000
4077 EAST CULLUMBER STREET, GILBERT, AZ 85234
1776 EAST SIERRA MADRE COURT, GILBERT, AZ 85296
5 BEDROOMS 3 BATHROOMS
5 BEDROOMS 3 BATHROOMS
HIGHLAND GROVES AT MORRISON RANCH
$2,043,752
3361 EAST SAGEBRUSH STREET, GILBERT, AZ 85296
LAKEVIEW TRAILS SOUTHWEST AT MORRISON RANCH 6 BEDROOMS 6.5 BATHROOMS
$550,000
4599 EAST SUNDANCE AVENUE, GILBERT, AZ 85297
POWER RANCH
4 BEDROOMS 2.5 BATHROOMS
SONORAN VISTA
$565,250
4632 SOUTH TAQUITZ DRIVE, GILBERT, AZ 85297
CORONADO RANCH
4 BEDROOMS 2 BATHROOMS
$835,000
2495 EAST SUSAN DRIVE, GILBERT, AZ 85298
ADORA TRAILS
4 BEDROOMS 3 BATHROOMS
Moving forward together! #GILBERTTOGETHER
www.amyjonesgroup.com
Call Us: (480) 250-3857
Each office is independently owned and operated