Issuu

D E C E M B E R 2 02 1

Winter + Revels 2021

LI F E + C U LTU R E C R AF T S , FO O D, AN D G O O D T I M ES! TR AV E L G RE AT WI N T ER VACAT I O N D ES T I NAT I O NS

Barb Abrams

Britta Acord

Linda Afman

Holly Alm

Amy Baldwin

Baylee Baldwin

Rochelle Basinger

Becky Behrens

Ahna Brock

Jim Brunswick

Kelley Burford

Janice Burtis

Julie Butherus

Toni Charlesworth

Katie Coleman

Anne Connolly

Michaela Dangler

Dee Ann Dardis

Cindy Day

Tom Fee

Carol Francil

Jillian Gallegos

Marjorie Genova

McKenna Gershon

Lynn Gillespie

Catlyn Gohn

Carolee Hawkins

Allie Halpine

Tina Harbin

Mandy Harter

Lalita Heinemann

Brad Higginbotham

Adam Hochevar

Judy Hoffschneider

Mindy Kamenski

Dave Kimbrough

Jan Kimbrough-Miller

Andrew Kramer

Linda Kramer

Danny Kuta

Joe Kuta

Joanna Little

Lori Maser-Jones

Sandra Matthewson

Diana Mathis

Jessica Meyer

Mike Miller

Bill Needham

Pam Olson

Brandon Palmer

Nicole Parentice

Judy Pearce

Kate Porras

Patti Poschman

Joe Reed

Rachael Richardson

Ray Rickard

Anna Rickenbach

Michelle Ritter

Shannon Roehm

Mandy Rush

Rebekah Scarrow

Carlie Schafer

Steven Schiff

Shanon Secrest

Corrina Shirley

Joe Silzell

Shannon Simons

Shannan Speer

Carrie St.Clair

Amy Swain

Pattie Taylor

Joe Tripoli

Trisha Whittington

Leta Wilburn

ShannonSneddon

Katie Worrall

Cyrie Wortmann

Nattigan Wortmann

BrittnayStuckenschnieider

Paula Zimmerman

Shelly Ramos

Grace Varley

Myco Wilburn

970-241-4000 www.gjproperties.com 120 W. Park Dr, Suite 200 Grand Junction, CO 81505

Each RE/MAX is independently owned and operated.

TE METALWORKS

POWDER COATING • CERAKOTE FABRICATING • LASER ENGRAVING • SANDBLASTING 970 - 255-1922 WWW.TEMETALWORKS.COM 2384 Leland Ave • Grand Junction, CO

Santa’s Toy Run Dec 11th

Non Profit

Kustom Built Cars Educational Workshop

SANTA’S TOY RUN STARTS 8:00 A.M. FOR COFFEE AND DONUTS, TOY RUN STARTS AT 9:00 A.M. 640 BELFORD AVE, GJ CO 81501

Learning a Trade for the Future Learning Hands-on Skills Scholarships Available Donations Welcome

acmechopshop.com

kustombuiltcars.com

970-644-5171

970-697-8049 CityLifestyle.com/GrandJunction

LIFESTYLE LETTER

DECEMBER 2021 PUBLISHER

Scott Fairbanks | scott.fairbanks@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

That happend fast DECEMBER – WINTER MAGIC

Garrett Gross | garrett.gross@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER

Whitney Lockhart L AYO UT DESIGNER

Dani Moore

Can you believe we’re wrapping up 2021?! Time really flies telling all the wonderful stories that make up Grand Junction. This month, we highlight the magic of the winter season, with holiday celebrations, festive food and Christmas Cheer! We’ve also compiled a vacation guide with some

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Nick Coleman, Cleo Olmstead, Mariah English, Sonee and Todd Kumro, Rayann Moses CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Ashlee Ficklin, Joshua Scott, Rayann Moses

of the season’s best destinations and other goodies. If you’re entertaining for the holidays, then check out how to make your home smell great when your guests arrive. Also, the recipe for Cowboy Chocolate Chip Cookies will definitely be a hit with Santa! As this year comes to a close, we’d like to take this opportunity to express our appreciation for you, our readers. We wouldn’t be here without you, and we look forward to another great year ahead. Warmest Season’s Greetings to you and yours. We hope to see you soon!

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

We'll keep believing in the magic of the holiday season, right along with you!

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

Scott Fairbanks, Publisher

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

ON THE COVER Mariah holding her DIY wreath.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOSHUA SCOTT LLC AND PHOTOGRAPHY 4

Grand Junction Lifestyle | December 2021

CityLifestyle.com/GrandJunction

Proverbs 3:5-6 Grand Junction Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Grand Junction 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 Grand Junction Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Expires 01/31/2022

EXCLUSIVE OFFER! Cruise Planners

Todd & Sonee Kumro sonee.kumro@cruiseplanners.com 970-587-3611 StumpedTraveler.com

10/21

CityLifestyle.com/GrandJunction

INSIDE THE ISSUE DECEMBER 2021

FEATURES 12 Get Your DIY On this Christmas For Photos or Family Fun

16 Things Other than Things Out of the Box Gift Ideas

28 There’s a Vacation For That Northern Lights to Sandy Beaches

12 28

34 Cowboy Chocolate Chip Cookies Healthier Than Regular Chocolate Chip Cookies *wink, wink

34 DEPARTMENTS

Lifestyle Letter

Good Times

Local Experiences

12 DIY 16

Local’s Choice

Culinary Creations

22 Hot Spot 24 Open House 26 Giving Back 28 Artist’s Palette 33 Lifestyle Calendar 34 Trend Setter

GOOD TIMES

Fruita Chamber of Commerce Trick or Treat

We hope everyone had a safe a spooky weekend at the Fruita Trick or Treat Street sponsored by Coloramo Federal Credit Union!

1. Watch out for the witch. | 2. Mermaids in the desert. | 3. Pirates too!

Fruita Chamber, After-Hours Hosted by Visit Fruita, this event fell on Veterans Day and included a tribute to our local veterans, a talk given by the 21 year Army veteran Richard Salgueiro; currently the Executive Director for the Grand Junction Veterans Administration.

To The He ad aches of Hiring C OLL A B OR ATE W I TH A L O C A LLY OWNED A ND OPE R ATE D STA F F I NG AGE NCY

SCAN HERE FOR OUR DIRECTORY

Our staffing and human resource professionals provide services that relieve employers of the burdens of recruiting, screening, hiring, and all payroll related tax and insurance reporting so that you can focus on what is important, growing your business.

Quality Without Compromise!

970-985-7000

LANDMARKSTAFF.COM 8

Grand Junction Lifestyle | December 2021

CMU Homecoming The Colorado Mesa University homecoming was a blast with good times and good food. We look forward to next year!

Grand Junction Symphony Gala The Grand Junction Symphony Orchestra hosted their annual Symphony Gala. It was a magical event and It had been too long since the last one (2018)! We hope to see it again next year!

WHEN YOU’RE READY WE’RE HERE FOR YOU COVID-19 VACCINE CLINIC

Free and Open to the Public Family Health West, 215 N. Plum St. Reserve Your Time at FHWcare.org/Vaccine

CityLifestyle.com/GrandJunction

LOCAL EXPERIENCES

WINTER AND REVELS WINTER IS A TIME TO ENJOY FAMILY AND FRIENDS WHILE RELISHING THE SPIRIT OF THE HOLIDAY SEASON. Whether you are enjoying one of the many festive activities our city has to offer or spending time with loved ones, the memories made will be cherished.

THINGS TO DO IN WINTER + Powderhorn Ski Company: Powderhorn is one of the most family-friendly resorts you'll find anywhere. They are also a short, beautiful drive away! 48338 Powderhorn Rd Mesa, CO + Beaver Run Resort & Conference Center: Have you ever wanted to try dog sledding? Here's your chance! Contact the concierge at 970-453-8744. 620 Village Rd, Breckenridge, Colorado 80424 + Mesa Lakes Lodge: The Grand Mesa's Mesa Lakes Trail is a great starting point for snowshoe adventures. Once you try it you'll be hooked! 3619 Us Hway 65 Mesa, CO + Breckenridge Stables: Breckenridge Stables has a scenic sleigh ride that includes a 35-45 minute ride with beautiful views. The ride goes up the Breckenridge Ski Resort. 620 Village Rd, Breckenridge, Colorado 80424 + Iron Mountain Hot Springs: Revitalize the skin, calm the nerves, detoxify the body, refresh oxygen levels, and relax in a hot spring. You deserve pampering, right? 281 Centennial Street, Glenwood Springs, Colorado 81601 10

Grand Junction Lifestyle | December 2021

scan for more city-wide tips

Toge ogeth theer

We can find the perfect HOME for BAKING

970-712-1977 LifestyleLivingRealEstate.com JulieAdamsGJ@gmail.com 750 Main Street, Suite 107 Grand Junction, CO

CityLifestyle.com/GrandJunction

DIY

FOR PHOTOS OR FUN

get your DIY on this christmas ARTICLE BY MARIAH ENGLISH PHOTOGRAPHY BY ASHLEE FICKLIN

WHEN GJ LIFESTYLE WENT IN SEARCH OF SOME DIY HOLIDAY SEASON DECORATING TIPS, DÉCOR AND DESIGN BY MARIAH GOT THE CALL. I’m a Colorado native who loves to transform living space into HOME; a place to truly LIVE. I love all of the variety found throughout Colorado and most of all, I adore the people. I was born and raised in Silverton, CO where I graduated high school in a class of six! After obtaining a BS degree in Chemistry at Fort Lewis College, I moved to the city of sun, Phoenix. I worked in an analytical chemistry job for three years, before realizing I belonged in Colorado. I moved back to Grand Junction, and decided I needed a new career. So, I went back to college in Radiology. I loved helping sick people, but shortly after, I met my husband and when we had two beautiful boys, and I decided to put my career on hold to raise them. Now that they are in middle school, I needed to be needed again. My passion for a perfectly coordinated and gorgeously decorated home was ignited. I see the world differently than others. With an eye for detail, I finally feel, in my niche, and happy too! It took me a bit of time to finally figure out what I wanted to be when I “grew up”, BUT I found it! Interior décor and design are my driving desire. I have a portfolio of homes that I’ve staged and those jobs grow into new opportunities every day!

Grand Junction Lifestyle | December 2021

CONTINUED >

materials: + Window Frame or large picture frame (glass removed) + Faux or fresh evergreen garland + Floral wire + Hot glue gun and glue sticks + Berries, pinecones, Christmas balls, snowflakes, any other bling, you love! + A string of battery-powered lights

“ T here a re some si mple steps that w i l l help preser ve th is beauti f u l creation so that it ca n be used for ma ny yea rs to come.” CityLifestyle.com/GrandJunction

DIY (CONTINUED)

This Holiday Season, I would like to show you some very simple and easy ideas for decorating. The first part of making this decoration is gathering the following supplies:

+ Window Frame or large picture frame (glass removed) + Faux or fresh evergreen garland + Floral wire + Hot glue gun and glue sticks + Berries, pinecones, Christmas ball ornaments, snowflakes, any other “bling”, you love!

+ A string of battery-powered lights Once supplies are gathered, and glue is hot, begin, by letting your imagination take control. There really isn’t any wrong way of creating a magical and beautiful frame. There are some simple steps that will help preserve this beautiful creation so that it can be used for many years to come. Those include:

+ Using wire instead of glue, will keep items attached. + Keep to a color or style theme. + Add mementos of those you love. I love the greenery and lights I’ve chosen but like to mix it up with different décor every year. This frame is absolutely the best piece to “frame” things you love. Pets, kids, grandkids, a spouse, a grandparent, or even another item! Like a tree or other Christmas item. Keep this beautiful and totally unique piece an annual tradition in your family. You will watch the memories grow, with this beautiful frame consistent and there through the years. Cheers to doing this easy item yourself. More ideas and creative examples can be found at: www.decoranddesignbymariah.com

Grand Junction Lifestyle | December 2021

hol id ay decorating

CityLifestyle.com/GrandJunction

LOCAL’S CHOICE

THINGS OTHER THAN THINGS OUT OF THE BOX GIFT IDEAS

ARTICLE BY GJ LIFESTYLE STAFF

WE ALL LOVE OPENING A GIFT ON CHRISTMAS MORNING. The excitement of guessing what’s in the box is something that stays with us from childhood. But why not try something “out-of-the-box”. Here are a few gift ideas that aren’t “things” but will be appreciated as much or more. If your gift is to someone that loves bicycles, why not give a professional bike fitting from one of our local bicycle shops? Do they like road trips? Why not a gas card and a planned out road trip with stops at breathtaking views, ghost towns, and fun winding roads. Have they been stressed lately? What about a pamper day at a spa. Maybe even out of town a little to extend the experience.

Grand Junction Lifestyle | December 2021

OUT OF THE BOX GIFT IDEAS

What about the gift of a maid cleaning service? Sometimes we just don’t want to do the laundry and dishes and it could really take the edge off of a busy time. When was their last family picture or portrait done? A professional photography shoot will give them photos they will hang onto for the rest of their life and beyond. Have they been annoyed with their home? An interior decorator consultation could help get the home spiced up and feeling new again. Are they annoyed with the time it takes to put on makeup? Permanent makeup could be the time-saver they are looking for. CityLifestyle.com/GrandJunction

CULINARY CREATIONS

CHICKEN NOODLE SOUP

a f i l ipi no f lavor on a classic com for t food ARTICLE BY NICK COLEMAN/ GJ LIFESTYLE STAFF

“IN A HOLE IN THE GROUND, THERE LIVED A HOBBIT. Not a nasty, dirty, wet hole full of oozy smells. This was a Hobbit hole, and that means a warm hearth and good food....” I love that story, and few things make it better. But following Bilbo Baggins’ advice, I would agree that a warm fireplace and good comfort food sure put the icing on the cake when a comfort day is needed and a good book in hand. Today we’ll be looking at Chef Nick Coleman’s (of Wearhouse 25Sixty-Five) recipe on the classic chicken noodle soup.

Grand Junction Lifestyle | December 2021

2536 Rimrock Avenue Grand Junction, CO 81505 (970) 773-9400 nothingbundtcakes.com/bakery/CO/grand-junction

Recipe + 1 tablespoon of oil + 1 onion peeled and chopped + 2 stalks of celery, cubed + 2 large carrots peeled and cubed + 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni pasta + 1 can (12oz) evaporated milk + 1/2 Napa cabbage. Chopped + 2lbs bone in chicken + 1 onion, peeled and quartered + 1 teaspoon peppercorn + 4 cloves of garlic peeled and chopped + 2 bay leaves + salt and pepper to taste + 10 cups of water + green onions, chopped + fried garlic(optional)

GET INSPIRED EAT + DRINK SHOP LOCAL CONTINUED >

City Lifestyle YOUR DIGITAL DESTINATION FOR LOCAL LIVING

CityLifestyle.com/GrandJunction

CULINARY CREATIONS (CONTINUED)

directions 01 In a large pot, combine 10 cups of water, peppercorn, bay leaves, garlic, 1 tablespoon of salt, whole chicken, and quartered onions.

02 Bring it to a boil, skimming the fat on top until the broth is clear. Once the broth is clear, lower heat and cover. Continue to cook for 30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and can be pulled apart. Remove chicken from the broth, then strain the broth and set aside.

03 Allow the chicken to cool to touch, pull all the meat from the bone and shred then set aside.

04 In another pot, heat up the oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Cook and stir often for 5 minutes or until softened.

05 Add the shredded chicken and season with salt and pepper.

06 Add the broth and bring it to a boil. 07 Lower the heat to a simmer, stirring occasionally, add the pasta, and cook for 7 to 10 minutes or until pasta is tender.

08 Add the evaporated milk and continue to simmer. 09 Add the Napa cabbage and cook for about 3 minutes until the cabbage is tender.

10 Season with salt and pepper to taste, serve hot, and topped with green onions and fried garlic.

Grand Junction Lifestyle | December 2021

Double-click Double-click "Select Ad Ad "Select Message" to to Message" get started. get started.

Value Pr

Lock in prices today to protect your Lock in prices today to protect your loved lovedones ones tomorrow. tomorrow.

NOTE:cli If click the an and start

It's It's simpl

Paying for for your final inadvance advanceprotects protects against Paying your finalarrangements arrangements in youyou against rising costs valuablepeace peace mind. rising costsand andprovides provides valuable of of mind.

C 1. Click1."C update upt

2. Ensure 2.

CALLAHAN-EDFAST CALLAHAN-EDFAST

3. Double 3. Template

MORTUARY & CREMATORY

MORTUARY CREMATORY Grand & Junction Grand Junction Callahan-Edfast.com spacer

spacer

Callahan-Edfast.com 970-243-2450 970-243-2450

4. In the the top 4.o

the

5. Select “Apply."

5. “A" 6. Click saving.

6. sav

Finishing

Click "Fin Fin click “Do print-rea

Cli

cli OR, click My Docu pri

OR My

TH + Located at 648 Main St. Since 1997 970.243.4777 CityLifestyle.com/GrandJunction

HOT SPOT

fun, aromatic

party pleasers

GETTING READY FOR HOLIDAY PARTIES

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY RAYANN MOSES

DRIED CITRUS : Have children weave though yarn or jute and use as orna-

+ Dehydrator + Jute or Yarn

ments! Can be paired with cinnamon sticks and strung as garland. Or used for any number of Holiday decor ideas! PREPARE:

+ Look for dark and bumpy and thick skinned citrus fruit + Sharp knife + Cutting board + Paper towels

DIRECTIONS:

+ Slice Citrus as thinly as possible saving scraps + Pat slices with a paper towel + Place in a dehydrator at 140 degrees for 5-8 hours + Drying times may vary. Citrus will be firm and almost transparent in the center. Should not be soft to the touch. *can also be done in the oven on a baking sheet with parchment paper. 175 degrees flipping every hour for 4-8 hours

Grand Junction Lifestyle | December 2021

STOVETOP POTPOURRI: PREPARE:

+ 1 Whole Orange or scraps from Dried Citrus craft + 1/2 C fresh cranberries if desired + 1-2 cinnamon sticks + 1 T whole cloves + Water DIRECTIONS:

+ Slice orange if needed. + Add all ingredients to a pot and cover with water + Place on the stove and simmer for a wonderful aroma. Add water as needed. HOLIDAY POMANDER: PREPARE:

+ Large navel oranges + Whole cloves + Toothpicks DIRECTIONS: Take oranges and poke with cloves. That’s all there is to it! This is a great family activity! Do different and fun designs or just place randomly throughout the fruit. CityLifestyle.com/GrandJunction

W A R M

OPEN HOUSE

WINTE RTIME READINESS WINTERTIME IS ENJOYED BY MANY FOR LOADS OF REASONS. But whether you’re a ski bum or just love getting snuggled inside with a good book, we can all agree that a broken heater can make for a bad winter day. Sometimes it gets cold in the desert we call home and so it’s a good reminder that our heating systems do need attention from time to time. So here are a few things you can do to keep your home from becoming an igloo.

Grand Junction Lifestyle | December 2021

STAYING WARM IN OUR COLD DESERT

ARTICLE BY GJ LIFESTYLE STAFF

+ Clean your furnace. + Check for rust. + Change your filter(s). + Check your pilot light. + Clean the registers (the vents on the floor). + Get a furnace tune-up. If you don’t have time to do these yourself, Haining Home Services is great at getting your furnace tuned/calibrated and ready to roll all winter long. Now get out there and enjoy winter!

CityLifestyle.com/GrandJunction

GIVING BACK

Gratefully

ARTICLE ALLISON GIBESON PHOTOGRAPHY JANIE JONES

GIVING AWAY AFTER A SUCCESSFUL CAMPAIGN LAST YEAR, LIFESTYLE PUBLICATIONS IS GIVING $300,000 TO RECIPIENTS IN NEED THIS CHRISTMAS SEASON AND BEYOND... AND WE NEED YOUR HELP!

ABOUT SIX YEARS AGO ANNA SAROL, THE DAUGHTER OF A SINGLE MOTHER, WAS PARALYZED IN A GYMNASTICS ACCIDENT WHEN SHE WAS A FRESHMAN IN HIGH SCHOOL, BUT UNTIL LAST YEAR SHE DID NOT HAVE A STAIRLIFT IN HER HOME. The stairlift was made possible when Lifestyle Publications gave her family $10,000. “I watched my community come together to help me get this equipment to my house, and words can’t explain how appreciative my

“I watched my community come together to help me get this equipment to my house, and words can’t explain how appreciative my family and I are.” —Anna Sarol

family and I are,” Anna says. The money for Anna’s stairlift was part of a giveaway campaign from the company during the 2020 Christmas season that benefited more than 80 recipients across the country with a final distribution of $250,000 throughout the year. When the company opened nominations, they were flooded with submissions. Community leaders such as judges, police officers, teachers, nurses, social workers, mentors and readers like you nominated people that were in need of assistance. As the eyes and ears of the community, these readers were able to help identify people who might have

Anna Sarol

otherwise gone unnoticed or unrecognized. One such nominee was Kathy*, an aunt who is raising her three young relatives. The children came from an abusive situation, and Kathy, a single guardian, works tirelessly to provide for them. Nevertheless, the family was already living in poverty despite her working seven days a week when Kathy lost her job during the pandemic. She resorted to selling tamales to help pay the rent. When a case manager with a Big Brothers Big Sisters foster youth mentoring program heard about Lifestyle’s campaign and call for nominations, she quickly thought of Kathy. “When I shared the news that Kathy was selected and would be receiving $3,000, she cried, screamed, and was in disbelief,” the case manager said. “She immediately wanted to give back to me and the donor by providing endless tamales. This funding allowed the children to have a small Christmas tree for the first time ever. Kathy was able to pay her rent and utilities for three months, and the children were able to experience a holiday season in peace without financial stressors.” In yet another case, Emily* who worked as a janitor at a school, was a recipient and was struggling to afford simply buying groceries for her children. Before the ongoing difficulties of the pandemic even started, a tornado destroyed the school she worked at just a couple weeks before the initial shutdown in March 2020 which resulted in a loss of income for her. Emily was incredibly surprised and grateful to receive assistance from the giveaway. *Names changed for privacy

Grand Junction Lifestyle | December 2021

WE NEED YOUR HELP TO GIVE AWAY $3OO,OOO This year the company will have nominations for the giveaway open from December 1-15, 2021. To submit a nomination, follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram and fill out the form found in the bio link. The amount given to each recipient will be based on need. The leaders of Lifestyle Publications believe God has blessed them with their company’s continued success, so they in turn wish to be a blessing and encouragement to others as they increase the amount of this year’s giveaway to those in need to $300,000 for the year.

Nominate HERE! Follow @citylifestyle on Instagram

CityLifestyle.com/GrandJunction

ARTIST’S PALETTE

THERE’S a va c a t i o n

F O R T H AT

NORTHERN LIGHTS TO SANDY BEACHES

ARTICLE BY SONEE AND TODD KUMRO

CONTINUED >

Grand Junction Lifestyle | December 2021

CityLifestyle.com/GrandJunction

ARTIST’S PALETTE (CONTINUED)

WHERE DO YOU START WHEN PLANNING WIN-

planning

TER TRAVEL?

ALASKA Whether by land or by sea, there is no wrong way

Ease of travel is always one of the first things to take

to experience Alaska. Anchorage and the greater

into consideration: direct flights vs connecting flights

Southcentral region of Alaska have many beautiful

is a big one. This is where a great travel advisor, like

places and exciting activities that add value to your

us, Cruise Planners, comes into play. We will make

holiday. For the active traveler, Anchorage has

sure you have the best available flight(s) and connec-

over 223 municipal parks and 135 miles of trails to

tion(s) so instead of hurdling through terminals, you

explore by foot, bike or guided tour. For a differ-

can walk breezily to your next destination.

ent point of view, see Alaska’s mountains, glaciers

When picking your destination you have to con-

and wildlife by air. Mush through the wilderness

sider: Is your passport ready? Are long flights doable?

in an authentic sled with an Iditarod dog sledding

What do I want to see, do, and experience?

team. And if skiing is your thing, then experience

Here are several destinations that are sure to be

an adventure playground at Alyeska Resort in

amazing winter travel destinations: Iceland, Alaska,

Girdwood. No matter what you do, don’t miss the

and Florida. Of course, we live in our own amazing

adventure of a lifetime by chasing the Northern

corner of the world, so if time or distance are barriers,

Lights. This mesmerizing experience may just

there is plenty to do close to home!

leave you speechless.

ICELAND

FLORIDA

Just a seven-hour flight from Denver, the Land of Fire

When a winter wonderland has you longing for

and Ice is the perfect escape for the adventurer at heart.

the white sand instead, then Florida’s got you cov-

Are you seeking waterfalls around nearly every corner, or

ered. A relaxing beach vacation is just what you

daydreaming about a soak in natural mineral hot springs

need to rejuvenate.

under the dancing Aurora Borealis. Maybe you’d rather

Beautiful white sand and clear, shallow water make

snow machine across a glacier or explore an ice cave

Clearwater Beach an ideal playground for families.

under one. The Golden Circle is a must when visiting

From the activity along the brick-paved, palm-lined

southern Iceland. Swim between the tectonic plates and

Beach Walk Promenade to the natural shores of Sand

then grab some lunch at the Fridheimar tomato green-

Key Park, you’re sure to find your perfect spot in the

house in Reykholt. After all this, you’ll enjoy taking in

sand. Rent a cabana and beach umbrella from a local

some nightlife in Reykjavik and enjoy a dinner of world-

vendor, or walk toward the more residential north side

class fish or plant-based options.

of the beach for a little serenity.

Grand Junction Lifestyle | December 2021

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/GrandJunction

ARTIST’S PALETTE (CONTINUED)

You’ll find joy lolling on Indian Rocks Beach white sand beach. This stretch of beach is part of a barrier island set in the Gulf of Mexico, with waterfronts facing emerald Gulf waters and the Intracoastal Waterway. Allowing for spectacular water views on both sides. Pristine beaches and sparkling waters draw visitors to North Redington Beach. One square

t ravel

mile of beachside fun, North Redington Beach offers almost a mile of beautiful beaches that slope gently into the Gulf of Mexico. North Redington Beach’s central location means that museums, art galleries and boutiques are not far from your home base. COLORADO A weekend getaway south to Canon City, the third oldest city in Colorado, is perfect for the adventurous at heart. Cañon City has an incredible variety of things to do, places to see, and people to meet! Home of America’s Highest Suspension Bridge & Zip Line, begin your Colorado adventure by experiencing 360° of adrenaline-packed rides and breathtaking views at the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park! Home to America’s highest suspension bridge, Colorado’s #1 Bucket List Zip Line, and World’s Scariest Skycoaster, the park has something for everyone. No trip to Canon City would be complete without an unforgettable, one-of-a-kind visit to America’s bridge. While in town, make sure to experience Skyline Drive, the Abbey Winery, and the town staple, DiNardo’s Cider on Highway 50. Take a trip down the Arkansas river either by rail or raft. Stand on the open rail car on The Royal Gorge Train or experience the rapids with one of the many rafting guides. Wherever you decide, we are ready to make your winter travel a warm breeze. Find us at www.StumpedTraveler.com

Grand Junction Lifestyle | December 2021

DECEMBER

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

PARADE OF LIGHTS

Main St. Grand Junction | 5:00 PM

The Parade of Lights is the biggest parade of the year! Thousands line Main Street as more than 100 lighted entries enchant viewers. Get in the holiday spirit and enjoy our beautiful Downtown.

CLINT BLACK FEATURING LISA HEART AN BLACK

The Avalon Theater 645 Main St. Grand Junction | 7:00 PM

It has been three decades since the release of Clint Black’s groundbreaking debut album, Killin’ Time. Now the legend is coming to our town!!! Get your tickets!

10-11 BEST OF THE WEST MUSIC FESTIVAL Moss Performing Art Center

Best of the West Music Festival began as a one-day event in 2000 when 40 high school seniors joined the Colorado Mesa University Wind Symphony for a spectacular concert. Since that time the event has developed into a two-day affair culminating in an exciting performance featuring three bands consisting of over 280 talented high school musicians.

18 SOUTHSIDE HIGHWAY

Wearhouse 25 sixty-five | 8:30 PM

Southside Highway is a fast rising country rockin band from good ol Grand Junction CO and we can’t wait to

SCOTLAND AT YOUR FINGERTIPS Large Scottish & Irish import shop with a s e l e c t i o n o f k i l t s , u t i l i t y, H i g h l a n d w e a r , musical instruments, f rozen-and-pantry foods f rom the U.K., gifts and much more. Organizers o f t h e G r a n d Va l l e y H i g h l a n d g a m e s . Ta y l o r s C r o f t . c o m 970-201-7757 247 8 P a t t e r s o n R d . , P a t t e r s o n Vi l l a g e S q u a r e

Timeless Allure

MICROBLADING, P E R M A N E N T M A K E U P, & STEM CELL SKIN R E J U V E N AT I O N DR. TRACY A. MILLER, OD

As an Optometrist, I have worked with eyes for 30 years. Delicate work around the eyes required in eyeliner, brow enhancement, and even lips, gives me a venue to combine my expertise and artistic expression. I love the end result of helping my patients not only see better, but look & feel better.

Would you like to get in touch with us? We would love

Wake Up with Makeup

to hear from you! Contact us at CityLifestyle.com/

W W W. T I M E L E S S - A L L U R E . C O M

have them back at the Warehouse! Free show so come early to get a good seat.

970-640-6462

Brows • Eyeliner • Lips • Permanent Makeup Removal Stem Cell MicroChanneling

GrandJunction using the Get In Touch link and let us know what you think.

2424 Old US HWY 6 & 50, Studio 25, GJ, CO 81505 Located inside the Sola Salon Studios at the Mesa Mall next to Cabela's

CityLifestyle.com/GrandJunction

HEALTHIER THAN REGULAR CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES *WINK, WINK

TREND SETTER

COW B OY C H O C O L AT E CHIP COOKIES IT IS THE TIME OF YEAR TO ROLL UP YOUR SLEEVES AND PUT ON YOUR APRON. The cookie-making season has arrived! From cookie exchanges, to neighborhood gifts, to cookies for Santa, a solid chocolate chip cookie recipe is a staple for every home. Here is my family’s favorite recipe:

INGREDIENTS + 1/2 cup of soft butter + 1/2 cup of white sugar + 1 cup of brown sugar + 2 eggs + 1/2 tsp of baking soda + 1/4 tsp of salt + 1 tsp of vanilla + 1 cup of oats + 2 1/2 cups of flour + 1 cup of chocolate chips

ARTICLE BY CLEO OLMSTEAD

DIRECTIONS

01 Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. 02 Cream the butter, white sugar, brown sugar, and eggs. 03 Then add the rest of the ingredients and mix them all together. 04 Make 2 Tbsp-sized cookie dough balls and place them on a baking sheet, then bake them for 11 minutes. 05 Enjoy!

Grand Junction Lifestyle | December 2021

Join the Community Today! Contact us at membership@bookcliffcc.com

CityLifestyle.com/GrandJunction

Merry & Bright

May Your Holidays Be

Thomas Hunn Jewelers

112 North 3rd Street • Grand Junction, CO 81501 970-241-3399 www.thomashunnjewelers.com Find us on Facebook & Instagram