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No Regrets.
One of my favorite parts of being the editor of Mission Hills City Lifestyle is the interactions I am blessed to have with the different people I interview every month. Sitting down to have a conversation is a personal thing, which often leads to incredible side conversations that never make it into an article.
Recently, I was fortunate enough to interview the Goodwins and ask about their take on living generously. I thoroughly enjoyed meeting them both and how personable they were before and after the actual interview. Once we concluded the recorded portion, I remember a certain topic that continued for a few extra minutes. We were sharing about family and life, when another question popped into my head.
I asked, “Would you genuinely say that you have ever regretted a time that you gave your money, time or energy to another human being or organization?”
There was no thinking necessary. Kristin immediately responded, “Not one time.”
Even writing this now, I would dare say this is the answer most everyone would give. When someone gives from a joyful heart that doesn’t keep a record of return, something powerful happens--the grip on the things of this world loosen.
I recall in my own life the times I have been so self-focused or down in the dumps, that the last thing I wanted to do was serve, give, or even show up. However, when I decided to put aside thinking about myself and my lack and pushed myself to show up for someone else, I felt something in me change. My circumstances didn’t necessarily, but my perspective did.
These are the moments when I can confidently say, “I have never regretted giving or showing up.” It is truly in those moments when I believe I was operating the way I was created to, which is why it produced the feeling of fulfillment, not regret.
Regardless of how many times you gave or served in 2025, focus on the next opportunity. When it comes, do not pass it by. Challenge yourself to look beyond yourself, and watch your perspective follow.
Well, after that little bit of heaviness, I really do want to wish you and your families a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! The features this December range from lighthearted to a bit deeper. Isn’t that so true of Christmas time?!
With so much love,
VICTORIA MOORE, EDITOR
December 2025
PUBLISHER
Sarah Johns | sarah.johns@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Victoria Moore | victoria.moore@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Rebecca Spears | rebecca.spears@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Katie Bode | katie.bode@citylifestyle.com
ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR
Sarah Elise Seidel | sarahelise.seidel@citylifestyle.com
Barbara Gulin, Jason Marshall, Leyla Sufi, Bev Weidner
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
McKenna Bostick, Parker Hamrick, Janie Jones, Emmalee Rathsam, Becca Spears, United Way of Greater Kansas City, Bev Weidner, Tyler Mckee
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1 – 7: Vinca Jewelry debuted Vinca Origins, its short film created in collaboration with award-winning filmmaker Micah Blosser, with a premiere-night celebration on the Plaza — a room full of longtime clients, new faces, and generations of jewelry stories coming together.
TYLER MCKEE
BECCA SPEARS
TYLER MCKEE
TYLER MCKEE TYLER MCKEE
TYLER MCKEE
CLEAN. COMPASSIONATE. HOLISTIC HEALING. FROM YOUR MOUTH TO
YOUR WHOLE BEING.
JOHN HUMPHREY JR DDS
JOHN HUMPHREY JR DDS
Meet Dr. Humphrey—A devoted husband and proud father of three, Dr. Humphrey brings more than 20 years of experience as a board-certified Biological Dentist. He is passionate about helping clients achieve total body wellness through a holistic and biological approach to oral health. Known for his warm, compassionate care, Dr. Humphrey and his team create an experience that is empowering for everyone who walks through his doors.
Dr. Humphrey has been caring for clients since 2003, committing himself to developing a depth of knowledge in holistic care. His passion lies is seeing how biological dentistry can contribute to optimal health and total body wellness.
business monthly
United Way Leads Effort to Support Families Facing Food Insecurity
Last month, United Way of Greater Kansas City launched SNAP Into Action in response to the impending delay of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program payments for more than 150,000 people around Kansas City. As the holidays approach, United Way is dedicated to helping meet these needs. Financial contributions have allowed them to host multiple meal kit-packing events around the region with more to come. Visit their website to help support their efforts: give.unitedwaygkc.org/v/snap-into-action
Scan to read more
Leyla Sufi Skin provides exceptional skin care
With a new space in downtown Kansas City, Leyla Sufi Skin does not just provide facials and treatments, but luxurious getaways to all of her clients seeking exceptional skin care. A licensed esthetician with a focus on acne, anti-aging and hyperpigmentation, Sufi chose to continue her education with the sole purpose of providing the best possible treatment to an array of skin types. Learn more about the services she offers by visiting: leylasufiskin.com/
Method Pediatric Therapy and Wellness continues growth
Owner of Method Pediatric Therapy and Wellness, Taylor Hornbaker has recently expanded her team, delivering even more personalized feeding, speech, occupational and physical therapy for kids and adolescents in our community. Method’s team is (left to right): Ariel Mansholt OTD, OTR/L, CPSI (pediatric and adolescent occupational therapist), Taylor Hornbaker, M.S., CCC-SLP (pediatric and adolescent speech-language pathologist), Briauna Coda, DPT (pediatric and adolescent physical therapist) and Amber Englehart, MOTR/L (pediatric and adolescent occupational therapist).
Photography by McKenna Bostick
Photography by Parker Hamrick
Photography by United Way of Greater Kansas City
Blessed To Be a Blessing
JOHN AND KRISTIN GOODWIN SHARE HOW GENEROSITY HAS SHAPED THEIR FAMILY AND OFFERS INCOMPARABLE JOY
ARTICLE BY VICTORIA MOORE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BECCA SPEARS
John and Kristin Goodwin are no strangers to the topic of generosity. A quick Google search would reveal quite a resume for how they have given back and served the Kansas City community over the years. However, “what” they have done is not what makes the Goodwin family special. It is their “why.” The joyful spirit and the humility they display when sharing about giving back is exponentially more motivating and contagious than a holiday spirit felt once a year.
For the Goodwins, it all begins with a solid foundation. They approach each day with the understanding that life is not their own, and the blessings they have been given are meant to be shared.
“We have a core belief that there is a God, and he wants us to serve and love others. We don’t always live that way, like all human beings, but we try to every day. I would say that’s true for every member of our family,” Kristin said.
“It’s His kingdom and not our kingdom that we’re living in,” John echoed. “If you realize what money and time can do to transform one life…that is worth impacting one life and hopefully, more than one life. That’s very encouraging to us.”
As Mission Hills residents, they are encouraged daily by the selflessness of their neighbors and how they care for one another. This care even extends to a neighborhood regular, David Vogt, who has served the people of Mission Hills for 30 years in the trash service industry.
“We’re very close to him,” John said. “I’ll give him a Diet Coke, talk to him about his grandson, and he asks me about my aging parents.”
“Everybody stops David. He is one of the things that’s quintessentially Mission Hills, a person who builds community,” Kristin added. “It is a community where people stop and talk to one another, passing on the street or at the grocery store. Its residents are actively engaged and interested in others.”
John and Kristin learned long ago that self-centeredness is not the path to lasting joy. Keeping open eyes and ears to others is an intentional part of their lives, especially as they look for ways to love and serve Kansas City as a whole. Learning from people with different backgrounds and watching those who give their time and talents so tirelessly motivates them to continue serving, even when it’s hard.
“You’re either serving somebody else or you’re serving yourself. It’s much more rewarding to serve
“Life is so short. You’re not remembered for any of the things that are bright and shiny and catch your eye when you’re living. It is through love, service and commitment that your memory lives on.”
somebody else,” Kristin said. “As we get older, our world can tend to get much smaller. We see people who are convenient for us to see. We’re not as mobile. We’re not in school with the kids anymore. Being involved in the community really keeps your world broad, keeps you learning.”
Engaging the community is a priority the Goodwins instilled in all three of their children as well. They were quick to teach and demonstrate that giving back was something anyone could do and did not always mean financial giving. Dedicated to the work of the Salvation Army, they would pack up the family and take them to ring Christmas bells around the city each year. They would also prepare meals at Grace United Community Ministries.
Now, as their kids live and serve in their own communities, the Goodwins are thankful for the legacy of generosity that started when they were kids and has continued to grow as they invest in the next generation.
“My parents were giving in every aspect of the word,” Kristin said. “They gave financially, and they gave of their time. They gave when nothing was expected or recognized. We just grew up understanding that everything we had been given was truly a gift; it wasn’t something that we merited or were entitled to.”
John recognizes the power of Christmas to inspire giving in the hearts of people. Throughout the last seven years, the Goodwins have been saddened,
like many people, to see a nationwide decline in nonprofit giving. According to the IU School of Philanthropy, charitable giving has dropped by $20 billion since the standard tax deduction was doubled. As they challenge themselves, they want others to consider how much more joy comes from giving now, rather than waiting.
“It’s giving during your life that is, I think, a lot more rewarding than giving after you die. That is one of the things that we like to do and want to inspire others to think similarly,” John said. “Many non-profits we are aware of are running budget deficits today, and the government cutbacks in food assistance are a serious threat to our community. I have visited and lived in many cities and have concluded that there is no more generous community than we have in Kansas City. But there is more that we, and this entire country, can do.”
“Life is so short…you’re not remembered for any of the things that are bright and shiny and catch your eye when you’re living. It is through love, service and commitment that your memory lives on,” Kristin said.
Whether it is serving on a community board, accepting the United Way of Greater Kansas City’s Adele Hall Spirit of Caring award, or cultivating relationships with locals like David Vogt, the Goodwins try to maintain the same posture through it all by their efforts in identifying areas of need and serving others in the community.
WRAP I N STYLE
citrus forever
I found this pale blue striped wallpaper and decided to make my entire life about it. I love this uniform look. Dried citrus always makes any gift pop.
LOCAL BLOGGER BEV WEIDNER GETS FESTIVE WITH HER HOLIDAY WRAPPING PRESENTATIONS
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY BEV WEIDNER
monochromatic flare
I was feeling darker tones, more patterns, more drama. The paper is from Amazon and the gauze and silk from Hobby Lobby. I like a good monochromatic flavor to life, so I applied it heavily this year.
vintage santa
I found that paper in our basement and for the life of me can’t remember how I got it. Walk around your yard and clip from trees, evergreens, shrubs--get a mix!
peaceful greens
Sage meets forest meets whatever else is here. Rustic, silky, creamy, rough--very into this.
ARTICLE BY VICTORIA MOORE AND LEYLA SUFI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY PARKER HAMRICK
CONFIDENTLY FACE THE Harsh Winter
LOCAL ESTHETICIAN LEYLA SUFI OFFERS
PRACTICAL STEPS TO KEEP YOUR SKIN
THRIVING THROUGH THE DRY, WINTER MONTHS
YOUR SKIN TELLS A STORY.
As the colder months begin to settle in, your outer layer of protection is the first to feel the effects.
When the temperatures drop and the air gets crisp, it is easy to notice increased dryness, tightness, and flakiness. Leyla Sufi, owner of Leyla Sufi Skin in Kansas City, says that these are common signs your barrier is struggling to keep up with the season.
Estheticians have a lot of knowledge about skin and how to resolve many of the problems that accompany cold weather.
However, what makes Sufi unique is her desire to equip her clients with the knowledge about what is happening under and on the surface of their skin and what they can do to help.
With a few intentional swaps and steps, Sufi shares how you can keep your complexion nourished, calm, and radiant all winter long.
“A professional facial is one of the best ways to reset your skin for winter. It provides deeper hydration, gentle exfoliation, and targeted barrier repair.”
1. Choose a Creamy, Calming Cleanser
Winter is not the time for harsh foaming cleansers. Opt for a gentle, barrier-supporting formula to cleanse without stripping. Face Reality’s Barrier Balance Creamy Cleanser is a favorite of my clients and me. It soothes while removing impurities, leaving skin soft and balanced.
2. Layer Hydration + Moisture
There is a difference between dryness and dehydration, and the two are often mistaken for each other. Dry skin lacks oil, and it tends to feel rough or tight with visible flaking or small fine lines from the lack of natural sebum. Dehydrated skin, on the other hand, lacks water. It can look dull, papery, or tired and even oily skin types can be dehydrated beneath the surface. Hydrating serums help with dehydration, while a nourishing moisturizer helps with dryness. I love to combine both. They help to keep my barrier supported and protected. My go-to winter lineup includes:
• Face Reality HydraBalance Gel Serum
• Hydrinity HA Serum
• GlyMed Plus Comfort Cream
• Skinbetter Science Trio Luxe (not acne-safe but deeply nourishing)
3. Keep the Water Lukewarm
Hot water feels soothing on cold days but can disrupt your skin barrier and dry out your skin. Cleanse with lukewarm or cool water.
4. Be Gentle with Exfoliation
Skip the scrubs. Harsh exfoliants can cause microtears and worsen dryness. Instead, use gentle exfoliants less frequently or opt for enzymatic formulas.
5. SPF Is Still Essential
UV exposure doesn’t disappear in winter. In fact, snow can reflect UV rays and increase exposure. Daily SPF remains non-negotiable.
6. Schedule a Seasonal Facial
A professional facial is one of the best ways to reset your skin for winter. It allows for deeper hydration, gentle exfoliation, and targeted barrier repair--setting up your skin to thrive through the colder months.
All of the products mentioned above can be purchased by visiting: leylasufiskin.com/
Leyla Sufi
Review
In just six months, my advertisements with Mission Hills City Lifestyle have directly resulted in three new clients and have been instrumental in keeping my services top-of-mind with my existing clientele in the area
Barb Wright Travel Wright with Barb
CREAMY BEEF
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY BEV WEIDNER
RAVIOLI
A delicious way to keep warm this winter
INGREDIENTS:
• 1/2 medium red onion, diced
• 3 carrots, diced
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 Tbs. extra virgin olive oil
• 2 (15 oz) cans fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• 4 cups chicken stock
• 2 cups cream
• 1 1/4 pound frozen beef ravioli
• 4 cups chopped kale
• 1/2 lemon for the juice
• Parmesan cheese, for garnish
• Crushed red pepper, for garnish (optional)
• Coarse salt
DIRECTIONS:
1. In a large soup pot, bring the oil to a medium high heat. Add the onions and carrots and sauté with a pinch of salt for three minutes. Add the garlic and sauté another minute or two. Add in the diced tomatoes and give it a quick stir. Add the stock and cream to the pot, then bring to a light boil.
2. Add the ravioli and cook under a simmer for about five minutes, until they soften and plump. Add the kale to wilt, then squeeze in the lemon juice.
3. Off the heat check for salt. Need another pinch? Do it. Add freshly grated parmesan and a pinch of crushed red pepper for a kick. Serve with crusty bread!
4. Serves 6.
Follow Bev’s blog for more yummy recipes: bevcooks.com Also on Instagram: @bevcooks
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Give the Gift of Comfort, Connection, and Care.
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Ser ving Kansas City families through ever y season of life.
INTENTIONAL GENEROSITY
With Christmas quickly approaching, many could be tempted to believe it is too late to give this year. Barbara Gulin, president and owner of BG Wealth Advisory in Mission, Kansas, wants to encourage others that while the window is closing, the opportunity still exists to be generous in 2025. Whether giving finances, time or energy, the key is to be intentional.
BG Wealth Advisory offers opportunities throughout the year to give back – Toys for Tots in November and a school supply drive in the summer. Both of these causes are near to Barb’s heart and stem from her intention to give back to her community. Learn more about how you can get involved by visiting: bgwealthmanagement.com/
FROM YOUR PERSPECTIVE, WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE GENEROUS?
I have always operated from a perspective that we are blessed to be a blessing. To me, money is a tool. Having a big pile of it, or hoarding it so that you can look at the pile, probably doesn’t bring a whole lot of joy.
Photo by: Emmalee Rathsam
Especially this year, a lot of giving has throttled back, and people are feeling the pinch with inflation. When we have the financial means to donate or the physical means to donate our time, all of that is really at the heart of what I think it means to be a good human.
WHAT ARE SOME WAYS PEOPLE CAN INCORPORATE GENEROSITY INTO THEIR FINANCIAL PLAN?
A lot of our clients choose to take advantage of qualified charitable donations out of their IRA accounts. Once you reach the age where you have to take required minimum distributions, if you don’t need the money, you can use the QCD option to send that money directly to a charity. The advantage to the client is that they’re not paying taxes on it because it’s a charitable donation, but the charity that
receives it also greatly benefits because it’s a cash donation.
A lot of it begins with the end in mind and deciding what you want your legacy to be. You can designate a charity as a beneficiary for your accounts. I have a lot of clients who don’t have children or who don’t have any living heirs who choose to do that, so they know they will be passing it along and paying it forward in the future.
WHEN DID YOU START COLLECTING TOYS FOR TOTS DONATIONS? WHY?
This is our second year. I’ve always wanted to do it. We finally found a way to make that happen with an office that was easily accessible so people could participate. We’ve worked with federal employees, training them on their benefits for the last 13 or 14 years. Military employees don’t make a lot of money, especially those CONTINUED
“TO ME, MONEY IS A TOOL. HAVING A BIG PILE OF IT, OR HOARDING IT SO THAT YOU CAN LOOK AT THE PILE, PROBABLY DOESN’T BRING A WHOLE LOT OF JOY.”
enlisted. What I like about it is you’re donating a new, unwrapped toy, and the parent who needs a little help has an opportunity to approach this with some dignity.
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT FOR YOU TO HAVE AN ACTIVE ROLE IN THE COMMUNITY?
Children are the innocents in all of this. In the summer, we always do the school supply drive for elementary school kids. These kids are products of their circumstances, not of their decisions. In the future, we are probably going to be a food donation collection site for another charity in town. I have always had a dream to be able to consistently provide help. That is where my heart is.
DESCRIBE THE JOY YOU PERSONALLY EXPERIENCE THROUGH GIVING BACK.
It’s really hard to put into words. It’s an emotional response to me, and I’m humbled to be a part of a community that gives back. It means a lot to me to have the resources to be generous.
Questions About Your Investments?
Unlimited Coworking
sleigh your
CHIEFS FIT CRAFTED A SIMPLE WORKOUT ROUTINE DESIGNED TO COMPLIMENT YOUR HOLIDAY FESTIVITIES
ARTICLE BY NICK DEASON
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BECCA SPEARS
Model: Seraphine Naeymi
SANTA’S SQUATS
Starting Position: Hold the weight against your chest, elbows tucked, and look straight ahead. Brace your core.
Descent: Push your hips back and bend your knees as if sitting down. Keep your chest up and back straight, ensuring knees track over toes.
Depth: Lower as far as possible while keeping heels on the floor and maintaining a neutral spine. Aim to get your thighs parallel to the floor.
Ascent: Push through your feet to stand up, squeezing your glutes and quads. Extend your hips fully without arching your back.
OH PRESS-MAS TREE
Stance: Stand upright with your feet about hip-width to shoulder-width apart for a stable base.
Grip and Weight Position: Hold a weight in each hand at shoulder height, with your palms facing forward (overhand grip). Your elbows should be bent at a 90-degree angle and positioned slightly in front of your body, not flared directly out to the sides.
Core Engagement: Engage your core muscles and glutes to maintain a neutral spine and prevent your lower back from excessively arching.
Shoulder Blades: Keep your shoulder blades pulled down and back (imagine sliding them into your back pockets) to avoid shrugging your shoulders toward your ears.
DECK THE DEAD LIFTS
Stance: Stand with your feet about hip-width apart and the weight in front of your thighs.
Grip: Grasp the weight with an overhand grip just outside your legs/shoulder-width apart.
Posture: Pull your shoulders back and down, lift your chest, and brace your core. Maintain a neutral spine throughout the entire movement.
Knees: Keep a slight bend in your knees; they should remain in this slightly bent position, not bending further as you lower the weight.
FA LA LA LA LUNGE
Starting Position: Stand tall with your feet hip-width apart and your hands on your hips or by your sides for balance. Engage your core muscles.
Step Forward: Take a large step forward with one foot, keeping your feet hip-width apart to maintain stability (avoid stepping as if on a tightrope).
Lower Your Body: Slowly bend both knees to lower your body toward the floor. Continue until your front thigh is parallel to the floor and both knees are bent at approximately 90-degree angles.
ROW, ROW, RUDOLPH
Stance and Setup: Place the two weights on the floor slightly in front of you and between your feet. Stand with your feet wider than hip-width apart (sumo stance).
Hinge: Hinge at your hips and put a slight bend in your knees, pushing your butt backward while keeping your back flat and core engaged. Your torso should be close to parallel with the ground.
Grip: Grasp the handles of both weights with a neutral grip (palms facing each other).
The Row: Brace your core and pull one elbow up toward your hip, keeping it close to your side. Squeeze your shoulder blade at the top of the movement.
Stabilize: As you row with one arm, press the opposite weight firmly into the floor to help stabilize your body and prevent your torso from rotating.
Lower and Alternate: Slowly and with control, lower the lifted weight back to the floor. As it reaches the ground, immediately begin the same movement with the other arm, alternating sides for the desired number of repetitions.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE
JONES
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these holiday drinks are guaranteed to bring a little extra cheer to your cup.
HOLIDAY COCKTAILS & COZY CREATIONS
BOURBON VANILLA BEAN HOT CHOCOLATE
An ultra-creamy, chocolatey holiday drink with a hit of warm bourbon and a vanilla bean twist.
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
INGREDIENTS:
• 1/2 cup high-quality dark chocolate (chopped or chips)
• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tbsp sugar or maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• Pinch of sea salt
• 2 oz bourbon
Topping: 4 large marshmallows
Optional garnish: grated dark chocolate, whipped cream, cinnamon
INSTRUCTIONS:
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, cream, cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla, and salt. Whisk until smooth and heated through. Add chopped dark chocolate and stir constantly until melted and silky. Lower heat if needed to avoid scorching.Remove from heat, then stir in bourbon. Taste and adjust sweetness or strength to your liking. Top with marshmallows. Add whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, and shaved chocolate.
Optional: Add a pinch of cinnamon and cayenne for spicy depth
Kid-friendly version: Omit bourbon and add peppermint extract or caramel syrup instead.
SPICED CINNAMON RUM FLIP
A luscious holiday cocktail with warming spices, rich texture, and a beautiful cinnamon garnish.
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 oz dark or spiced rum
• 3/4 oz cinnamon simple syrup
• 1 oz heavy cream
• 1 whole egg
• Dash of ground nutmeg
• Dash of vanilla extract
Garnish: cinnamon stick and a light dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon
INSTRUCTIONS:
Make Cinnamon Simple Syrup:
Combine 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup water, and 2 cinnamon sticks in a saucepan. Simmer for 10 mins, let cool, and strain. Store in the fridge.
Add rum, cinnamon syrup, cream, egg, vanilla, and a pinch of nutmeg to a shaker. Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds to emulsify the egg. Strain into a coupe or stemmed glass like the one in your photo. Top with a cinnamon stick across the rim and a dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon.
Optional: Add 1/2 oz chilled espresso for a coffee kick.
CONTINUED >
HOLIDAY SPICED GINGERBREAD LATTE
A warm, frothy, and festively spiced drink perfect for winter nights.
INSTRUCTIONS:
INGREDIENTS:
For the latte:
• 1 shot of espresso
• (or 1/2 cup strong
• brewed coffee)
• 3/4 cup milk
• 2 tbsp gingerbread syrup
• Whipped cream
For the gingerbread syrup:
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp molasses
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/8 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Optional toppings:
• Ground cinnamon or nutmeg for dusting
• Marshmallow
• Crushed gingerbread cookie around the rim or on top
Make the gingerbread syrup:
In a small saucepan, combine water, brown sugar, molasses, and spices. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and let cool. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Prepare the drink:
Brew your espresso or strong coffee. Heat and froth your milk. In your glass, add 2 tablespoons of the gingerbread syrup. Pour in the espresso, then the steamed milk, stirring gently to combine. Spoon frothed milk or whipped cream on top. Dust with cinnamon or nutmeg.
Optional: Rim the glass with crushed gingerbread cookie crumbs for extra flair.
FESTIVE CRANBERRY GIN FIZZ
A bright, elegant cocktail with a foamy top and a hint of holiday spirit.
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 oz gin
• 1 oz cranberry juice
• 3/4 oz lemon juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• 1 egg white
Optional: splash of sparkling water or club soda
Garnish: fresh rosemary or thyme sprig
INSTRUCTIONS:
In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, cranberry juice, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white. Shake vigorously for about 20 seconds to create the frothy top. Double strain into a chilled coupe glass to get that smooth, foamy top. Add a small splash of sparkling water if you’d like a bit of fizz. Gently place a sprig of rosemary or thyme on top of the foam.
For the season’s celebrations and beyond. Style that feels unmistakably you.
realty report
SAMPLE OF RECENTLY SOLD PROPERTIES IN MISSION HILLS, PRAIRIE VILLAGE AND FAIRWAY.
events
FIRST THREE WEEKENDS IN DECEMBER
Hallmark Christmas Experience.
Crown Center | 9:00 AM
Experience the magic of the Hallmark Christmas Experience at Crown Center, right outside Hallmark’s headquarters! This free, immersive event returns for its second year bigger and merrier than the last, with festive fun for all ages. Join us weekends through December 21 to celebrate the season with family, friends, and fellow Hallmark fans in true holiday style!
WEEKENDS THROUGHOUT DECEMBER
Evergy Festival of Lights
Powell Gardens | 5:00 PM
Experience the magic of the Evergy Festival of Lights at Powell Gardens, where Kansas City’s botanical garden transforms into a sparkling winter wonderland. Stroll illuminated pathways, admire stunning architecture, and enjoy the beauty of the Midwest landscape. Bundle up with family and friends for a refreshing, joy-filled evening during the most festive season of the year. Learn more online: powellgardens.org/event/evergy-festival-of-lights/
DECEMBER 6TH
Saint Nikolaus Day Celebration
Kansas City Bier Company | 11:00 AM
Celebrate Saint Nikolaus Day at KC Bier Co with an all-day Christmast Market and festive fun! Enjoy holiday movies, kids’ crafts, a s’mores bar, music from Bram Wijnands, Bierstacheln, and a visit from St. Nikolaus and Krampus. Don’t miss the evening Christkindlmarkt benefitting Imagine That! Free admission—family-friendly fun from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
DECEMBER 9TH
A Charlie Brown Christmas
Helzberg Hall | 7:00 PM
Celebrate the season with the Kansas City Jazz Orchestra at their annual Christmas concert! Experience the timeless charm of A Charlie Brown Christmas as nostalgia meets improvisation in this heartwarming holiday performance. Perfect for the whole family, this beloved Kansas City tradition will fill your evening with festive jazz, joy, and the spirit of the season. Tickets are available: tickets.kauffmancenter.org/
DECEMBER 13TH
Westport Christmas Market
Westport, Kansas City | 10:00 AM
Experience Kansas City’s Favorite Christmas Tradition at the Westport Christmas Market! Stroll through festive stalls featuring local makers, sip warm holiday drinks, and enjoy live performances from KCPS groups. Meet Santa and Buddy the Elf, write letters to the North Pole, and cheer on the Santa Run—creating magical memories for the whole family this holiday season!
DECEMBER 13TH
Holiday Harmonies
The Folly Theater | 2:30 PM
Enjoy 2.5 hours of festive music and dazzling harmonies that will fill you with holiday cheer. Join Central Standard and Vocal Standard for Holiday Harmonies at the historic Folly Theater on Saturday, December 13, with performances at 2:30p.m. and 7:00p.m. Tickets are on sale now. Unwrapped toys will be collected for KVC’s Holiday Heroes toy drive! Visit follytheater.org/ for more!
