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D E C E M B E R 2 02 1

Holiday Revelry

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

DECEMBER 2021 PUBLISHER

Greg Gewalt | greg.gewalt@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR

Kimber Patterson | kimber.patterson@lifestylepubs.com

December – Winter Magic CAN YOU BELIEVE WE’RE WRAPPING UP 2021?! I am so happy to share the

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Jordan Gray | editorial@MeridianCityLifestyle.com INTERNS

Holiday issue of Revelry with you today.

Brooke Robbins + Shasta Ockerberg editorial@meridiancitylifestyle.com

To keep you blissfully celebratory we’ve filled this issue with ideas for the perfect

Kendall Houlton | kendall.houlton@lifestylepubs.com

gluten-free desserts, elevated bourbon drinks, and gift picks for everyone in the family. Tying it all in a bow, there’s even a comprehensive list of Local Holiday Experiences and a nostalgic photomontage of local families celebrating the holiday season. You’ll get tips on writing the perfect thank you notes and advice on how to

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

AD DESIGNER

Whitney Lockhart L AYO UT DESIGNER

choose the best bubbly to ring in the New Year.

Dani Moore

Over the past few months you may have noticed the introduction of QR codes that

Greg Gewalt, Jordan Gray, Rebecca Leber-Gottberg, Kimber Patterson, Brooke Robbins

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

you can follow to find additional content on CityLifestyle.com for pinning, saving, and sharing–along with extra photos and information. The layouts are perfectly simple, allowing for more of the amazing stories and photographs, and all easily

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Jane Alice, Ruth Novella, Charles Knowles

accessible with your mobile devices. Our January edition will bring even more print and digital design changes. $300,000 GIVEAWAY: In thanks to the communities we serve, Lifestyle Publications is giving away a total of $300,000. As the eyes and ears of the community, it will be

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

leaders such as judges, police officers, teachers, nurses, social workers, mentors

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

and readers like you who will nominate people who are in need of assistance.

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

Nominations are open from December 1-15, 2021. To submit a nomination, follow

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen

@Meridian.Lifestyle and @CityLifestyle on Instagram and fill out the form found in

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

our bio link. Happiest of holidays to your family. We hope you enjoy the issue. 514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

Greg Gewalt, Publisher

ON THE COVER Check out MeridianCity.org for all the Christmas details on Santa’s Mailbox, Zoom with Santa, Winter Lights Parade, Tree Lighting, and a Community Christmas Lights map.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY GORILLA IMAGES 6

Meridian Lifestyle | December 2021

CityLifestyle.com/Meridian

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

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INSIDE THE ISSUE DECEMBER 2021

FEATURES 20 Baking Wild Phyllis Wild Phyllis Bakery Specializes in Treats for Gluten-Sensitive People

26 Holiday Giving Find the Perfect Gift for Everyone on Your List in 2021

32 Local Families & Holiday Spirits When Family Comes Together for the Holidays, Capture the Moment with a Family Portrait

20 44

44 Book Gift Ideas Fiction, Non-Fiction, and Children’s Favorites Everyone Will Love

32 DEPARTMENTS

Lifestyle Letter

Good Times

Around Town

Local Experiences

20 Locally Owned 26 Local’s Choice 32 Our Town 36 Hops & Vine 44 Page Turners 50 Giving Back 54 Food & Wine 56 Lifestyle Calendar 58 DIY

GOOD TIMES 1.

Idaho Renaissance Faire Offered Fights, Fun, and the Fantastical Kuna's Greenbelt Park saw princesses, knights, jesters, fairies, and more as The Idaho Renaissance Faire transformed the grounds in October. The yearly event gave visitors the chance to indulge in the Renaissance Age, along with a fair share of whimsy and turkey legs. You can plan for next year's event (Oct. 8-9) now by visiting idahorenfair.org. PHOTO CREDIT: JORDAN GRAY.

1. Rebecca Marchbank showed off aerial tricks in “Flight of the Wood Nymph.” | 2. Can you make a whip snap? The familiar twip! resounded throughout the Fair. | 3. The pillory made a popular photo op. | 4. The Queen admires another queen’s dress. | 5. Blue Moon Haven offered belly dancing exhibitions. | 6. Armored combatants fought for glory on the tournament field (aka Greenbelt Park). | 7. New archers tried their hands at hitting the target.

Meridian Lifestyle | December 2021

•SITE ASSESSMENT •PRUNING •TREE REMOVAL •PLANT & SOIL HEALTH CARE •FERTILIZATION

CALL FOR A FREE CONSULTATION 208.362.4478 • info@alpinetreeservice.net • alpinetreeservice.net

AROUND TOWN

Custom artwork by Rachel Sulik pays tribute to

MERIDIAN TEACHER EARNS 2022 TEACHER OF THE YEAR HONOR

pollinators, which is appropriate since the box is located in the Community Garden. You can find

Crossroads Middle School's Todd Knight is

the Little Free Library at the back of the park off

Idaho’s 2022 Teacher of the Year.

Venture Drive. Feel free to help yourself to a book

Knight will be a spokesperson and representa-

and some seeds, or share your own favorites for

tive for Idaho educators, along with Idaho’s nomi-

others to enjoy.

nee for National Teacher of the Year.

CITY RECOGNIZES EXCELLENCE IN ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP

“My students know I care about them beyond the grade in the book or the butt in the chair," Knight said in his application. They witness this in the time

The City of Meridian recognized Micro 100 and

I invest in them and the lessons I develop. And they,

Republic Services as the 2021 Environmental

in turn, show me the same care and commitment.”

Excellence Award recipients during a recent City Council meeting.

Knight has taught science at Crossroads since 2014.

The award recognizes businesses, individuals,

NEW LITTLE FREE LIBRARY DEBUTS IN KLEINER PARK

or organizations that have made a commitment to help improve Meridian and make it a more sustain-

Kleiner Park is the home of Meridian's newest

able, environmentally friendly community.

Little Free Library. The box is intended to serve as

“We want these awards not only to honor the

a community exchange point for books and seeds.

winners, but to encourage others to follow their

Medical | Dental | Vision | Supplements

Health Benefits of Boise LLC is an Independent Agency, not owned by an insurance company, therefore we offer benefits from a variety of insurance carriers. Our goal is to take the mystery out of insurance and help you make sense of it, so you can look forward to a brighter, more secure future.

208- 288- 0681 WWW. H E A LT H B E N E F I TS O F B O I S E . CO M

KNOWLEDGE 12

C R E AT I V I T Y

Meridian Lifestyle | December 2021

EXPERIENCE

lead as we work towards our goal to be a more sustainable city,” Public Works Environmental Programs Coordinator Jason Korn said. Micro 100 produces carbide tooling products. The Meridian facility has eliminated electroplating in favor of a coating process which produces no wastewater or hazardous chemicals. Facility improvements in waste reduction and energy efficient lighting also helped it earn this honor. Republic Services picks up trash, recycling, and grass clippings using a low-emission fleet running renewable natural gas gas. Republic Services also operates a transfer station on Franklin Road where residents can bring hard-to-recycle items. Republic Services recently connected its facility to the City’s

“I am confident that Nathan's past experi-

wastewater reuse system for irrigation and con-

ence will set him up for success here at West

tainer washing.

Valley," West Valley Medical Center CEO Betsy

WEST VALLEY MEDICAL CENTER ANNOUNCES NEW CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER Nathan Tindall has been announced as the new chief financial officer (CFO) of West Valley

Hunsicker said. "He came highly recommended from his facilities and we are very fortunate to have his expertise as we continue to grow in the future,” Tindall comes to West Valley from Mission Health, in Asheville, North Carolina, where he served as Associate CFO.

Medical Center.

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Made in

ITALY CityLifestyle.com/Meridian

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LOCAL EXPERIENCES

WINTER AND REVEL CHILDREN AND ADULTS ALIKE WILL LOVE BROOKE ROBBINS’ LIST OF SOME OF THE BEST PLACES TO CELEBRATE WINTER.

THINGS TO DO IN WINTER + Children’s Museum of Idaho - fun for the whole family, this museum offers children a place to learn through play and exploration with interactive exhibits. 790 S Progress Ave Meridian, ID + Bogus Basin - this recreation area is the perfect destination for all manner of winter activities like skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing. 2600 N Bogus Basin Rd Boise, ID + Sledding at Julius M. Kleiner Park - as soon as there’s snow, grab your sled and your scarf and go sledding in this large park. 1900 N Records Ave Meridian, ID + Majestic Cinema - perfect for a winter evening out without needing to bundle up too much, there’s always a rotating selection of movies to enjoy. 2140 E Overland Rd Meridian, ID + Ice-Skating in the Village - come with friends or with family and visit this outdoor ice-skating rink to practice your skating. 3540 E Longwing Ln Meridian, ID 16

Meridian Lifestyle | December 2021

scan for more city-wide tips

SEASONAL LIGHT DISPLAYS AND EVENTS + Holiday Light Stroll - visit the Scentsy campus to see over 450 decorated trees and walk through the fan favorite 250-foot-long light tunnel. 2701 E Pine Ave Meridian, ID + Santa Photos - before the holidays arrive, bundle up your family to see Santa and get photos in his cozy house. 3597 E Monarch Sky Lane, #225, Meridian, ID + Winter Lights Parade & Downtown Meridian Tree Lighting - with 50 parade floats, this event is the perfect way to start your family's holiday season. 118 E Idaho Ave Meridian, ID + Last Minute Shoppers Event - if holiday gift shopping snuck up this season, visit this event featuring over 30 vendors, door prizes, and raffles. 1920 N Records Way Meridian, ID + Winter Garden aGlow - with family or friends, visiting the Idaho Botanical

scan for more city-wide tips

Garden while it’s decorated with hundreds of lights is a holiday must. 2355 E Old Pnitentiary Rd Boise, ID

HOSTING HOLIDAY DINNERS WITH LOCAL MAKERS + Bouquet Centerpieces - Floral Creations has a varied selection of seasonal floral arrangements that will add some color and life to your holiday tablescape. 1756 W Cherry Lane #130, Meridian, Idaho 83642 + A New Vintage Wine Shop - with rotating varieties of red and white wines, there’s wine that will pair well with your holiday dinner here. 1400 N Eagle Road, #104, Meridian, Idaho 83642 + Artisan Goat Cheeses - Eden Creamery offers a wide variety of handmade artisan farmstead cheeses, including feta, gouda and farm cheese. 2350 North Eagle Road Meridian, ID + Greenfield Custom Meat - with several cuts of beef, pork and lamb, this family owned butcher can provide the perfect protein for your holiday meal. 2965 W Amity Road, Meridian, Idaho 83642

scan for more city-wide tips

+ Drinking Chocolate - these drinking chocolates from MacTaggert's Brand are handcrafted in Boise and come in a variety of sizes as well as flavors. 2350 North Eagle Road Meridian, ID CityLifestyle.com/Meridian

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Meridian Lifestyle | December 2021

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LOCALLY OWNED

Baking Wild Phyllis ARTICLE KIMBER PATTERSON PHOTOGRAPHY MEREDITH HODGE

WHEN MEREDITH HODGE FIRST BEGAN BAKING WITH SOURDOUGH, SHE MET A WOMAN ON THE INTERNET IN ENGLAND WHO INTRODUCED HER TO LONG-FERMENTED BREAD DOUGH. This process neutralizes the phytic acid in wheat that causes irritability in many people. That was over 15 years ago. Since then Meredith has been adapting dozens of recipes into long fermented sourdough recipes, including organic, digestible (gut-friendly) breads, pastries, cakes, pasta and more. When Covid-19 swept through Idaho last year, she pulled Phyllis, her wild yeast sourdough starter, out of hibernation and began to bake bread. Several of her former customers in San Diego discovered she was baking again and started ordering her homemade bread and treats. Organic flour was hard to come by, but she found what she needed and baked away. Meredith was a regular at FedEx shipping bread all over the country. With Instagram, she was able to build her business loaf by loaf. Word spread locally through the Treasure Valley, too, thanks to her incredible friends and customers.

Meridian Lifestyle | December 2021

CONTINUED >

USING A 23 YEAR OLD YEAST NAMED PHYLLIS, WILD PHYLLIS BAKERY SPECIALIZES IN FOOD FOR GLUTENSENSITIVE PEOPLE

CityLifestyle.com/Meridian

LOCALLY OWNED (CONTINUED)

Challah Bread made with duck eggs

Eventually, she rented a commercial kitchen and began baking special orders only, as well as landing several wholesale accounts. Over the summer of 2020, she created a pop-up bakery in front of the commercial kitchen, which attracted the attention of Jeanne, a local realtor and entrepreneur. Jeanne became a friend and eventual business partner. As their partnership formed, they began looking for a new home for the bakery they called “Wild Phyllis Bakery” in honor of the starter that started it all. “We use 1000 Springs Flour, Clover Creamery milk, chicken eggs from Bold Rebalanced Farm in Emmet, and duck eggs from Ohddi Farm in Marsing,” says Meredith. “We are so grateful to be able to source a majority of our ingredients locally.” Their special holiday treats include many fun, seasonally-inspired items. I’m torn between the cranberry orange sourdough, gingerbread scones, and the cinnamon rolls. I think one of each should suffice, along with the challah made with duck eggs. Be sure to pre-order online because they sell-out during the holidays, or you can stop by the bakery ThursdaySaturday. And if you haven’t tried pain d’epi, now is your chance to fall in love with this pull-apart sourdough. Pulling apart warm sourdough is better than pulling on any wishbone! WILD PHYLLIS BAKERY 12646 W Fairview Ave Boise, ID 83616 208.286.1624 wildphyllisbakery.com

Boston Cream Cruffins

Meridian Lifestyle | December 2021

“We use 1000 Springs Flour, Clover Creamery milk, chicken eggs from Bold Rebalanced Farm in Emmet, and duck eggs from Ohddi Farm in Marsing,” says Meredith. “We are so grateful to be able to source a majority of our ingredients locally.”

Sourdough Veggie Foccacia

CityLifestyle.com/Meridian

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LOCAL’S CHOICE

holiday giving

FIND THE PERFECT GIFT FOR EVERYONE ON YOUR LIST

UI 26

Meridian Lifestyle | December 2021

M E R RY

BRIGHT

LOCAL 01 Nothing like a color refresh for a new look & a new outlook with 100% vegan, botanically-based Aveda hair color. RainSalonAndSpa.org | 02 Genuine Citrine Clustered Gemstone Tree on Amethyst Matrix (The Money Tree). AstroGallery. com | 03 Stretching helps alleviate muscle tension, reducing pain in sore areas, joint pain, and aid in injury and pain prevention. StretchLab.com | 04 The App and the FreshPass paid subscription program gives free unlimited delivery on orders over $30, and exclusive perks. Albertsons.com | 05 Cleanse Peel Hydrate combines chemical peel, microdermabrasion, and extractions all in one service with zero downtime. TwoRiversSpa.com | 06 Not only can art make a gift you’d never expect, it can brighten up a room by adding color and texture and personalizing the space. EchelonFineHome.com

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Meridian

LOCAL’S CHOICE (CONTINUED)

G I F TS

01 Unlimited carwashing each month with a dedicated Express Lane is the best way to save time and money while keeping your car looking brand new. RocketExpress.com | 02 Send up to $1,000 Gift Card for Ricochet Home Consignment, a customized greeting card by email, mail, or printout. bit.ly/ RicochetBoise | 03 Join us for multiple events throughout the next couple of months featuring exclusive deals and expanded collections from some of our favorite brands. SimmonsFineJewelry.com | 04 Know someone who loves to garden, has a new home or is getting married? Give the gift of gardening to your loved one. FarwestGardenCenter.net | 05 Idaho’s Largest Coffee Store! Over 90 Varieties of Gourmet Coffee. tvCoffee.com | 06 A mainstay in Eagle, you can find a wide range of unadulterated, premium Extra Virgin Olive Oils and Modena Balsamic Vinegars. OliveAndVyne.com

Meridian Lifestyle | December 2021

FantasticGames.com | 02 Reclaimed wood furniture, stone sinks & bathtubs, home accessories, mirrors antiques & More. ImpactImportsusa.com | 03 JJ Jenkins is your Spa & Game Table consultant for the Treasure Valley. TheSpaTeam. com | 04 Freshen up your bathroom, invigorate your kitchen, and restore your bedroom providing the clean home you deserve. MerryMaids.com | 05 Rugged trails far removed from the comforts and trappings of civilization? No problem for the Bronco Sport. LithiaFordBoise.com | 06 A uniquely chosen, eclectic collection of gifts, home decor and seasonal merchandise. RoostCollection.com

H O LI DAYS

01 Board games, card games, accessories, puzzles, toys and much more.

CityLifestyle.com/Meridian

Big dreams Big dreams

Recipe for future success: need a little help. Her Dreams + IDeal 529 Open or gift to an IDeal - Idaho College Savings account. We’llneed starta with $25. little help. We’ll start with Contribute by 12/31 and get up to a $12,000 tax deduction.*

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*Contributions to the IDeal – Idaho College Savings Program are deductible from Idaho state income tax, subject to recapture in certain circumstances, such as a non-qualified withdrawal or a rollover to another state’s qualified tuition program in the year of the rollover and the prior tax year.

For more information about the Idaho College Savings Program (“IDeal”), call 1.866.433.2533 or visit www.idsaves.org to obtain a Disclosure Statement. The Disclosure Statement discusses investment objectives, risks, charges, expenses, and other important information. Because investing in IDeal is an important decision for you and your family, you should read and consider the Disclosure Statement carefully before investing. Before you invest, consider whether your or the beneficiary’s home state offers any state tax or other state benefits such as financial aid, scholarship funds, and protection from creditors that are only available for investments in that state’s qualified tuition program. IDeal is administered by the Idaho College Savings Program Board (Board). Ascensus Broker Dealer Services, LLC (“ABD”), the program manager, and its affiliates, have overall responsibility for the day-to-day operations, including investment advisory and recordkeeping and administrative services. The Vanguard Group, Inc. (Vanguard) serves as Investment Manager for IDeal. Sallie Mae Bank serves as the Savings Portfolio Manager for IDeal. IDeal’s Portfolios invest in either: (i) mutual funds and a separate account offered or managed by Vanguard; or (ii) an FDIC-insured omnibus savings account held in trust by the Board at Sallie Mae Bank. Except for the Savings Portfolio, investments in IDeal are not insured by the FDIC. Units of the Portfolios are municipal securities and the value of units will vary with market conditions. Not FDIC-Insured (except for the Savings Portfolio). No Bank, State or Federal Guarantee. May Lose Value.

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Jan Zarr Family L to R: Lindsey, Ashley, Kenny, Cano, Oma, Popie, and grandkids KD & RC Katie Hays

Kinzel Family: Calvin, Keri, Michael, Cole & Claire

A TRADITION TO CAPTURE THE MOMENT WITH A FAMILY PORTRAIT

Beaudry Family: Grey, Jacque, Drake, Carrie

WHEN FAMILY COMES TOGETHER FOR THE HOLIDAYS, FOR MANY IT’S

local families & holiday spirits

OUR TOWN

Julie Crecelius Family: Allison, Alexis, and Julie

BACK L to R: Maddy Matosich, Arielle Heinonen, Morgan Neylan FRONT: Kailyn Mourton, Tara Kristensen, Cece Cheney

Jaclyn Padgett Family: Jesse Lee, Payton Lee, Cooper Lee, Kelsey Lee, Jaclyn

Meridian Lifestyle | December 2021

Gwen Swain Family: Rick, Gwen, Mark, Janet with Cameron and Carter

Ian Brown Family: Jaime, Ava, Ian

Renae Goodwin Family L to R: Pat and Kaitie O’meara, Amanda and Matt Stone, Ranae and Stacy Ware

Jenn Hickey & Mike Louie Family: Nick, Jenn and josh Hickey & Mike, Oliver and Isaac Louie

Kelli Ryan Family: Shawn & Kelli with Sons Nolan and Dylan

Meg Glasgow Family: Steve & Meg with Aven, age 2 and Cora age 1

McCracken/Wills family: Gary, Keh, Jeff, Mali, Reece, Kennedi & Emmett

Lauren Winkle Family L to R: Joe, Haylee, Taylor, Jerry, Marie, Colton, Gracie, and Tessa. Second row: Kim, Mike, Lauren, Keegan, Kurt, Pam, Steve, Amber, Caleb, Ashley, Gus, and Scott

Tink Prairie-Newcomb Family L to R: Shane & Tink Prairie-Newomb, with daughter Lily

Regina Collins Family: Scott, Regina, Kaleb

Ryan Adams

Keegan and Lauren Winkle

CityLifestyle.com/Meridian

HOPS & VINE

holiday

BOURBON cocktail

RECIPES PHOTOGRAPHY JANIE JONES

WHETHER YOU’RE HOSTING A HOLIDAY COCKTAIL PARTY OR WANT TO RELAX BY THE FIRE AFTER PLAYING SANTA CLAUS, WE PRESENT OUR FAVORITE BOURBON RECIPES.

Used

in a variety of manners to lift your “spirits,” bourbon can also be used in cooking such as a banana bourbon syrup for waffles on Christmas morning.

Meridian Lifestyle | December 2021

SILVER DOLLARS & HALF-LIGHT SKIES + Applewood-smoked J. Rieger & Co. Whiskey + Yunnan Black Tea-infused Lustau Vermut Rojo + Barrel-aged cream soda reduction + No. 22 Boondock Bitters This drink is created with a sugar lid fully encasing smoke inside the glass and cracked upon serving. As you might expect, this drink has a wonderfully smoky rich flavor, and is an excellent choice for those who prefer a traditional Old Fashioned, but want to elevate it to new heights.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Meridian

HOPS & VINE (CONTINUED)

YOU CAN’T ROLLERSKATE IN A BUFFALO HERD INGREDIENTS: + Buffalo Trace Bourbon + Rhubarb Liqueur + Luxardo Bitter Bianco + Mole Bitters The Rhubarb introduces an extremely subtle hint of gentle sweetness and unique flavor that is nearly undetectable but helps to create a trendy twist to the standard and expected bourbon cocktail.

Meridian Lifestyle | December 2021

BLISTERED AROMA + Russell’s 10 year Bourbon + Russell’s 6 year Rye Whiskey + Amaro Nonino + Orange Bitters + Aromatic Bitters + Housemade Rosemary, Blood Orange, and Naval Orange Simple Syrup + Torched Sprig of Rosemary + Dehydrated Blood Orange Wheel The addition of rosemary along with hints of orange sets this apart.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Meridian

HOPS & VINE (CONTINUED)

SHERRY O'S + Bourbon + Lustau Manzanilla & East India Solera Sherry + Blueberry + Apple + Lemon 40

Meridian Lifestyle | December 2021

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Welcome to Idaho’s original boutique hotel neighboring Chandler’s Steakhouse. Stay refreshed with PURE rooms and explore downtown Boise with complimentary bikes. Did we mention we’re pet-friendly? hotel43.com | (208) 342-4622

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Relax and unwind by the fire pit in the courtyard with a freshly made cocktail from our Bistro Lounge. Get rewarded and earn Marriott Bonvoy points with each stay. Steps away from Boise State University. marriott.com/boicy | (208) 331-2700

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As a Native,

I know the Treasure Valley. I know Idaho. “When it came time to sell the home we’ve loved since we building it a decade ago, we wanted someone who’d treated it as the home they loved & “wanted the best for”, too. From the minute I spoke with Ian Brown, I knew he was that professional. Ian’s communication style is clear & so responsive, we always felt in the know & like we were his number one priority. His community reputation is worth gold itself, as when we needed a few items “punched” to get our sale price, Ian arranged quality professionals to make our home ready. He’s also an impeccable planner, so we knew what steps we were on & what was coming next during the whole process, from readying our home for the market to signing our closing docs, again with local professionals. If you want no-stress, high-trust process for the sale or purchase of Treasure Valley real estate, Ian Brown is the best hands you could put yourselves in!” - Kerri M. Eagle, ID

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PAGE TURNERS

GIFTS FOR BOOK LOVERS

GREAT GIFT IDEAS FROM REDISCOVERED BOOKS THAT READERS WILL LOVE

BOOKS BRING JOY. Books bring solace. Books take us to new locations and introduce us to new friends. Being a bookseller at Rediscovered Books crowns us with the privilege of opening magical gateways introducing you to new places and people. We’re your hosts to new worlds found between the covers of your “next best read.” In short, we love books. We love talking about books. Nothing brings us more joy than sharing our new bookish finds. This holiday season, we have chosen some of our newest favorites to share. Gift them to yourself. Or gift them to someone else (but read them first, that is what we do). Swing by one of our locations, order through our webpage, or give us a ring. We have the perfect read for all your holiday (or everyday) needs! REDISCOVERED BOOKS 180 N 8th Street, Boise, ID 802 Arthur Street, Caldwell, ID

Meridian Lifestyle | December 2021

Rediscovered Books, Caldwell

GREAT GIFTS ARTICLE REBECCA LEBER-GOTTBERG PHOTOGRAPHY JANE ALICE

FICTION HOLIDAY RECOMMENDATIONS

UNDER THE WHISPERING DOOR by TJ Klune For those who loved House in the Cerulean Sea, TJ Klune has done it again with Under the Whispering Door. A warm and compassionate, yet laugh out loud funny, story about a crabby dead man and the ferryman (and companions) that befriend him. You will cry, you will laugh, and you will come back to it again and again. A comforting soulful read for a cold winter’s night!

ALL THE LONELY PEOPLE by Mike Gayle This lovely and heart warming story revolves around Jamaican immigrant Hubert Bird. Hubert is a complicated man with a complicated past and a slowly withering heart of gold. That is until he makes an unlikely friend in a young Welsh woman and her toddler daughter and his world forever changes. All the Lonely People is timely, relevant, and beautifully written. For fans of A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman.

NON-FICTION HOLIDAY RECOMMENDATIONS FUZZ: WHEN NATURE BREAKS THE LAW by Mary Roach America’s funniest and most quirky science writer does it again. Mary Roach, the renowned author of Stiff: The Curious Life of Cadavers, takes us off the beaten path into the unpredictable wilds where wildlife and humans collide. An engaging and always entertaining book about the crossroads where human behavior and wildlife biology meet. If you read it first, you may not want to give it away!

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Meridian

READING CHILDREN’S HOLIDAY RECOMMENDATIONS

PAGE TURNERS (CONTINUED)

BEAR IS A BEAR by Jonathan Stutzman, Illustrated by Dan Santat

Special friends come in all shapes and sizes and they stick with us through thick and thin. Bear is many things--a protector, a friend, a fellow adventurer, and even a tissue. Bear is a Bear is funny, charming, and one that you will want to read again and again. Just

ask one of our bookseller’s 3 year old! This one is her favorite book and it will be yours too.

EGG MARKS THE SPOT (Skunk and Badger #2) by Amy Timberlake, Illustrated by Jon Klassen Young readers, best friends and intrepid explorers, Skunk and Badger are off on another adventure, this time in search of the elusive Spider Eye Agate. Badger has disappeared under mysterious circumstances (just ask Fisher about it), and their adventure unfolds in ways that only a Skunk and Badger adventure can. Charming, funny and a story about the value of good friends.

NON-FICTION HOLIDAY R E C O M M E N D A T I O N S ( C O N T. ) BARNS OF IDAHO: SENTINELS OF YESTERYEAR by Linda Lantzey (local author) This beautiful coffee table book, Barns of Idaho: Sentinels of Yesteryear is for anyone with a love and fascination for old barns and the stories that they tell. Full of gorgeous pictures, photographer Linda Lantzey transports the reader through time into Idaho’s rural past best known for these iconic structures and the place that they hold in the American story. 46

Meridian Lifestyle | December 2021

NEST

Now at 2 Joyful Locations

These are few of our favorite things..

NEST

at the corner of

Eagle Road & Chinden Blvd Eagle, Idaho

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Meridian Lifestyle | December 2021

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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. Anna Sarol

“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 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 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.

Meridian Lifestyle | December 2021

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.”

“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.” CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Meridian

GIVING BACK (CONTINUED)

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.

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 52

Meridian Lifestyle | December 2021

Nominate HERE! Follow @citylifestyle on Instagram

Is refinancing rigHt for you?

Hom

sw eet

ho me

CityLifestyle.com/Meridian

FOOD & WINE THE CAPTIVATING SENSATION OF SPARKLING WINE PAIRED WITH MEMORABLE FOOD AND MEMORABLE PEOPLE

ARTICLE GREG NERUDA + TARA BRUNER PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

TINY B U B B LE S YES PLEASE, I’LL HAVE SOME CO2 IN MY WHITE WINE. Best served chilled with appetizers, friends, and, of course, special occasions, Champagne is perhaps the most protected name on the planet. White sparkling wine, famous in northern France and exported from there, has a storybook history. Early white wine makers in France, like Pierre (Dom) Perignon, worked diligently and meticulously to prevent a second fermentation in a bottle that produced gas bubbles and ruined their white wine. Often the bottles exploded and caused a chain reaction, destroying many bottles in the cellar. Dom Perignon made excellent white wine, not Champagne, and being a Benedictine monk he was not allowed to

Northern Italy is home to the finest Prosecco in the world and

lose his temper or cuss when his bottles exploded.

Franciacorta is the best expression of the highest quality spark-

Wouldn’t this be a great Masterpiece Theater?

ing white made there in the traditional method. Italy excels in

Thankfully, the French made the best of a

exporting wine and remains a best value for wine lovers.

difficult winemaking situation. Madame Barbe

Just as much fun as drinking is learning how to pronounce all

Nicole Ponsardin (and later the widow [Veuve]

these wines and regions. It’s a daunting task best accompanied

Clicquot), pioneered the method of making

by several glasses of Champagne, Prosecco, Cremant or Cava. In

sparkling white wine. We have her to thank for

order, that’s France, Italy, France, and Spain.

getting tipsy at a wedding. When the famous French method is copied outside of Champagne, you have method traditionnelle or method classique. Then you are free

That’s where we like to travel (again someday) and enjoy the captivating sensation of sparkling wine paired with memorable food and memorable people. Cheers and Happy Holidays with your favorite bubbly.

to make bubbles and call it anything you want… other than Champagne. Excellent versions of this classic method come to us from Italy, Spain, France, California and too many other places to mention. Good bubbly is often under $30. Look for Cremant in France, outside of the Champagne region. At a fraction of the cost, it can be every bit as good as Champagne.

Meridian Lifestyle | December 2021

OLIVE AND V YNE WINE We are a Father-Daughter team who loves to enjoy delicious wine and food! This is our passion and our love for food and drink is based on years of research and experience. OliveAndVyneWine.com

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DECEMBER

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

3-5

BOISE CHRISTMAS SHOW

FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY BOOK SALE

SANTA'S HELPERS STORY TIME

1326 W. Cherry Lane

Join Santa's helpers for a fun story

Christmas gift items and products

Stock up for winter reading, listening,

time. Sessions will be held at 11:30 a.m.

such as Christmas gifts, creative

and binge watching at this used book

and noon in the Village Cinema lobby.

lighting, ornament photos, garden

sale. Your purchases will go to help

art, handicraft and many more.

the Friends of the Meridian Library

Expo Idaho, 11 AM

Showcasing

wide

range

WINTER LIGHTS PARADE AND CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING Downtown Meridian

This nighttime parade travels through

The Village at Meridian

District, a nonprofit organization that supports the library.

MYSTERY BOOK CLUB

1326 W. Cherry Lane

Come talk about the books you've read with other passionate readers.

CHAD DANIELS

December's theme is short stories.

Knitting Factory Boise

downtown with floats, bands, cars,

Originally from, and still residing in,

and festively dressed walkers. Enjoy

rural Minnesota, comedian, Chad

the spectacle before this year's tree

Daniels has been touring the country

dazzles you with its lights.

for over 20 years.

18 LAST MINUTE SHOPPERS EVENT Center at the Park, 1920 N.

Records Way

HIP HOLIDAY CRAFT MARKET

SANTA PHOTOS

holiday shopping list.

South, Nampa

See the Big Guy before the Big

Head to this local, curated shop-

Day! You can visit Santa in his

ping experience to find unique gifts

cozy house at The Village this hol-

for your holiday needs. More than

iday season. Reserve your time

35 local artists and crafters will be

at Flying M from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Visit

village-at-meridian.

Flying M Coffee, 1314 2nd Street

Check out more than 30 vendors and check off those last items on your

The Village at Meridian

amusemattebooksanta.com/

more info on the artists.

18 THRIVE KIDS’ DAY OUT

Tomlinson South Meridian YMCA

Kids will get a chance to enjoy an after-

flyingmcoffee.com/hipholiday for

noon of games and hanging out with

friends. It’s a great way for kids to be

EARTH & SPACE FAMILY EVENING

active and meet new people. 1-4:30

Children's Museum of Idaho, 790 S.

6TH ANNUAL A HOLIDAY TO REMEMBER

Progress Avenue

Center at the Park, 1920 N.

ities set up around the museum,

Records Way

and learn about the James Webb

For thirty minutes at a time, you

Join the Savvy Networking Ladies as

Telescope

most

can glide across the ice at The

they offer gift ideas for everyone in

powerful space telescope ever

Village (or slip and fall down-we're

your life. You'll also find a fundraising

built). Register for this free event at

not judging). To reserve your time,

raffle and free crafts for kids.

cmidaho.org/events.

visit thevillageatmeridian.com.

Meridian Lifestyle | December 2021

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SE GOOD MAN AU NE C E R

DIY N

GO ER V E

O U T OF

ST YL E

How to Send Great Thank You Notes ARTICLE KIMBER PATTERSON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

first things first – say thank you

WHILE “THANK YOU” NOTES HAVE BEEN EXCHANGED SINCE THE 1400S, THEY REMAIN AS IMPORTANT AS EVER TODAY.

This is simple enough. Start out by writing “Thank you for…” and let your pen flow

Of course, a simple note sent

from there. Specifically mention the gift you’ve received. Don’t write, “Thank you for the

through the mail still does the trick

present.” Write, “Thank you for the cookbook.” If you received the gift in person, mention

because everyone loves to receive

how much it meant to you to see them.

a thank you note. Putting pen to paper is so personal in this digital

details matter

age of emails and texts. A handwritten note written with genuine gratitude can become a keepsake

Which is better? “Thank you for the scarf,” or “Thank you for the beautiful sapphire

forever. With just a few easy tips,

blue cashmere scarf. “ Add a sentence about when you wore it and how warm it kept

it’s easy to let your feelings flow

you. “Let’s go for a walk in the park next week so I can show you how much I love it,” is a

and craft a message that’s mean-

sweet way to spend time together.

ingful. Any card will do, so don’t get too hung up on needing special

too young to hold a pencil

stationery. What you write inside is more important. Be sure to speak from the heart, meaningfully and

Writing a thank you note for your young child? It’s easy to write for kids because their

authentically expressing your grat-

enthusiasm is contagious. What’s their favorite part of their new book? Share how much

itude. Send your note within two

they play with that new toy. An original drawing from your child on the note will send

weeks for the most impact. And

grandma over the moon with joy.

remember,

saying

“thank

you”

never goes out of style, just like good manners. (SPM Wire)

the gift of gratitude You don’t need a new trinket to write a thank you card. A short note thanking someone for help or acknowledging his or her act of kindness means a great deal. If a neighbor shovels your walk because you’re in bed with the flu, a note expressing your appreciation will make you feel better, and will make their day.

Meridian Lifestyle | December 2021

THINK. BELIEVE. SERVE. The goal of classical Christian education is formation, not merely information. We work with parents to prepare young people to think with depth, believe with courage, and serve with compassion. Learn more at theambroseschool.org

@theambroseschool

PreK - 12 Classical Christian Education CityLifestyle.com/Meridian