Northland, MO January 2026 by City Lifestyle

The Health & Wellness Issue

JA N UA RY 2 02 6

BUY ONE, GET ONE

40% $250 +

OFF EACH WINDOW & DOOR

PLUS NO DOWN PAYMENTS, NO PAYMENTS, NO INTEREST if paid in full within 18 months.

Interest accrues from purchase date but is waived if paid in full within 18 months.

913-359-8931

RENEWWITHRBA.COM

1Offer not available in all areas. Discount applied by retailer representative at time of contract execution and applies to purchase of 6 or more windows and/or doors. Cannot be combined with other offers. Buy one window or door, get the second window or door of equal or lesser value 40% off. Discount applied to lowest-priced window and/or door products in purchase. To qualify for discount offer, initial contact for a free Window and Door Diagnosis must be made and documented on or before 1/31/2026, with the appointment then occurring no more than 10 days after the initial contact. Subject to credit approval. 18-month Promo Period when no payments are due and interest accrues but is waived if balance is paid in full before Promo Period expires. Any unpaid balance owed after Promo Period plus accrued interest will be paid in installments based on terms disclosed in the financing agreement. Financing is provided by various financial institutions without regard to age, race, color, religion, national origin, gender, or familial status. All loans are unsecured personal loans subject to credit review and approval by the lender. Renewal by Andersen retailers do not assist with, counsel or negotiate financing, other than providing customers an introduction to lenders interested in financing. This Renewal by Andersen location is independently owned and operated. “Renewal by Andersen” and all other marks where denoted are trademarks of Andersen Corporation. ©2026 Andersen Corporation. All rights reserved.

LIFESTYLE LETTER

A new year, a softer pace, a chance to breathe We’ve arrived at the doorstep of January 2026. Though winter in Kansas City often greets us with cold winds and soft blankets of snow, there is something undeniably tender about this time of year. The new year feels like a quiet invitation — a moment to look back with gratitude, to shape new habits with care, and to lift our eyes toward what’s possible. January encourages us to slow our pace. As we echo the stillness of nature, we’re reminded that winter is not a season for rushing or reaching, but a time for deep tending, gentle restoration, and honest reflection. In this month’s issue, you’ll find features and stories to help nourish that sense of rest. Whether it’s curling up fireside with a book from a local author, wandering among the trees for a bit of forest bathing, connecting with our community’s youth by reading a story brought to you by local high school students in Northland CAPS, or awakening something new and invigorating within yourself at The Practice Yoga and Pilates studio, I hope you discover something meaningful to support you during this gentler season. My prayer for each of you, as we step into the New Year, is that you enter with clear eyes, an open heart, and a sincere intention — moving toward the dreams and hopes that will bring you the deepest joy. May this season invite reflection, courage, and gentle forward motion, reminding you that every small step matters and every new beginning carries its own quiet magic.

January 2026 PUBLISHER

Natalia Kreinbring | Natalia.Kreinbring@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R

Katie Currid | katie.currid@citylifestyle.com S O C I AL M E D I A C O O R D I N ATO R

Laura Schierhoff C O PY E D I TO R

Grace Ramirez CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Brooks Blair, Diana Lambdin Meyer, Meredith Schneider C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Brooks Blair, Kristin Helling, Hannah Schreiner, Meredith Schneider

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry COO David Stetler CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

Kindly,

LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick

N ATA L I A K R E I N B R I N G , P U B L I S H E R @NORTHLANDCITYLIFESTYLE

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Northland City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Northland area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle

Visit our Instagram CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/NORTHLAND

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

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 Northland City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Candi c: 816-591-5590 Ashley c: 816-728-2253 SweeneyTeamKC@ReeceNichols.com

SweeneyTeamKC.com

6340 N Lucerne Ave | Kansas City, MO 64151 816-587-4411

SOLD

LAKE FRONT

RISS LAKE 6325 EDGEWATER DRIVE MLS#2574911-$1,395,000 SOLD

GENESIS PLACE AT GREEN HILL 9605 N ADRIAN AVENUE MLS#2582784-$425,000

THE NATIONAL 7390 N NATIONAL DRIVE MLS#2564371-$2,750,000 PENDING

CHAPEL RIDGE 7400 W CHAMBERS COURT MLS#2581488-$569,000

BRISTOL PATIO HOMES 538 NW 110TH STREET MLS#2582670-$425,000 PENDING

ROMANELLI GARDENS 1012 W 69TH TERRACE MLS#2582649-$695,000 SOLD

BUILDING SITE

THE NATIONAL 7017 WATERS EDGE MLS#2591271-$695,000 SOLD IN 10 DAYS

BUILDING SITE

THE NATIONAL 6122 PERSIMMON COURT MLS#2517630-$150,000

SOLD

ESTATES AT STALEY 5251 NE 108TH STREET-LOT 3 & 4 $375,000-$425,000

COMING SOON

Find More Of Our Featured Listings HERE! RISS LAKE 8000 NW TIMBERCREST PLACE MLS#2579830-$1,700,000

BRISTOL PATIO HOMES 519 NW 110TH STREET MLS#2587439-$439,000

WHETHER BUYING OR SELLING…WE ARE HERE FOR YOU! CONTACT US TODAY!

inside the issue JANUARY 20 2 6 | HEA LT H & W EL L N ES S

10 30

Featured

16 22 30 6

Snuggle Up with a Book by your Northland Neighbors

16 On the Cover

Departments

Owner Mandy Froehlich leads a yoga class at The Practice Yoga & Pilates Studio in Liberty

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Locally Sourced ARTS + CULTURE

Trend Setter LIFE + CULTURE

Outdoor Adventure WELLNESS

Healthy Lifestyle HEALTH + WELLNESS

Self Care HEALTH + WELLNESS

Events

Culinary Creations FOOD + BEVERAG E

The Conway Creators

Mother-daughter duo builds a digital legacy through family and entrepreneurship.

Breathe In the Trees

Experience forest bathing in the Northland’s most tranquil and tree-lined trails

Slow Down

Discover rest, strength and awareness at The Practice Yoga & Pilates

Photography: Hannah Schreiner

JANUARY 2026

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

7 6

1-7: Northland City Lifestyle publisher Natalia Kreinbring hosted a fall meet and greet in November at Prima Facie Bistro in Parkville. Magazine partners were invited to attend to mingle and also had the opportunity to taste the University Spirits bourbon from the face of November’s cover, Kareem Rush.

Want to be seen in the magazine? TA G Y O U R I N S TA G R A M P H O T O S W I T H @ N O R T H L A N D C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E

C I T Y SC E N E

816-599-3610

100 W. KANSAS ST.,

TIGERPOOLANDPATIO.COM

LIBERTY, MO 64068

VTIGERPOOLANDPATIO

Kansas City’s Premier Custom Pool Contractor At Tiger Pool and Patio, we’re dedicated to turning your everyday spaces into extraordinary retreats. Our mission is to offer a VIP customer experience that makes your journey with us exceptional from start to finish. We recognize that your outdoor area is an extension of your lifestyle, and we’re here to help you craft a personalized oasis that mirrors your distinctive style and preferences. Partner with us to create a space that truly reflects your dream backyard oasis.

Fiberglass Pools

Custom Vinyl Liner Pools

Fire & Water Features

Outdoor Kitchens

Hardscapes

Snuggle Up with a Book by your Northland Neighbors Photo by Hannah Schreiner

ARTICLE BY DIANA LAMBDIN MEYER

LOCA LLY SOU R CE D | ARTS + CU LT U RE

Is there anything better on a cold winter day than snuggling up in your favorite chair with a blanket, a furry pet and a good book? For some of us, it is the best part of winter, those quiet days when the snow silently falls and the only sound is the turning of a page. If one of your New Year’s resolutions is to reduce stress, get better sleep and improve your overall mental health, the experts say pick up a book. Studies by the Baylor College of Medicine say reading helps reduce stress and anxiety by taking your mind away from other things happening in your environment. Some studies suggest that older adults who read frequently tend to fare better when it comes to cognitive outcomes, potentially lowering the risk of dementia and other cognitive disorders. Those of us in the Northland are blessed not only with independent bookstores and a great library system, but also talented neighbors who write those books that keep us company throughout the year. You’ll find lots of books by local authors at Parkville Coffee, owned by Kristin Helling, also an author. Because good coffee and a good book go together, she added a Book Nook in the historic building in 2018 featuring Kansas City area authors. Kristin has authored 15 books; 13 novels under her name and two children’s books under the pen name Kristin Allis. One of the authors featured there is Tiffany Killoren, a Parkville resident who also writes for Northland Lifestyle. Her first book, Six Weeks in Petrograd, follows a young woman on a six-week work trip to Russia. She doesn’t speak the language and must rely on others to help her navigate the culture as she is stranded in St. Petersburg.

Tiffany followed that with Good Will, Uncharted Therapy, and Pretty Dead Things. All of her books are set in small towns. Among her favorite books by other authors are Anna Karenina and In Cold Blood. If you love horses, you will love the two books written by Platte County resident Catherine Huddleston. Cathy was raised on a farm in western Kansas and is now the CEO of Northland Therapeutic Riding Center. Her first book, Because of My Horse, is a memoir about how horses helped her overcome trauma in her personal life. It’s certainly a book for adults. Cathy’s second book is ideal for children about 10-12 years old. Through the Eyes of a Horse teaches about acceptance, trust and empathy. “Many animals offer a sense of healing, but I believe horses offer unconditional acceptance,” says Cathy. “Humans have a long history with horses and, as a result, I believe horses and humans have a unique emotional connection.” Cathy has two more books coming out in 2026. Another interesting book to be on the lookout for this year is co-authored by Parkville resident Barbara Luetke and Liberty resident Shelton Ponder. The tentative title is An Erased History: the African-Americans and Platte County Missouri. As the title suggests, it is about the many enslaved people whose labor helped build much of Platte County. Barbara, who is a Quaker, has two novels set in the colonial era and told through the experience of Quakerism. The first is The Kendal Sparrow, followed by The Frontier Chrysalis. TJ Dailey is another Parkville resident who recently published Pure American Nostalgia, a novel that pairs restored archival photographs from 1960s Kansas City with a fictional story about an aging writer who, through an old stack of 45s, relives a wild summer night in 1964. The book is inspired by TJ’s dad, who graduated from North Kansas City High School. You’ll recognize many places that still exist in Northtown, including the old

The Book Nook in Parkville Coffee. Photo by Kristin Helling

“If one of your New Year’s resolutions is to reduce stress, get better sleep and improve your overall mental health, the experts say pick up a book.” CONTINUED > JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/NO RT HL A N D

“Northlanders are blessed not only with independent bookstores and a great library system, but also with talented neighbors who write the books that keep us company throughout the year. You’ll find many of these local authors featured at Parkville Coffee’s Book Nook.” Author Tiffany Killoren. Photo by Hannah Schreiner

The Book Nook in Parkville Coffee. Photo by Kristin Helling

barber shop on Armour Road and the Screenland theater. Working with the Clay County Historical Society, TJ included several historical photos in Pure American Nostalgia. One of the authors at Parkville Coffee is me, Diana Lambdin Meyer, a resident of the Northland since 1987. Many years ago, I was delighted to work with Shifra Stein, the original author of Day Trips from Kansas City. Shifra passed away in 2008, and I have been blessed to continue her legacy. We are now at the 17th edition of Day Trips, which offers you interesting ideas of places to visit and things to do within a two-hour radius of Kansas City. My other book is Myths and Mysteries of Kansas. From the disappearance of our Atchison neighbor, Amelia Earhart, to the death of my great, great aunt in Independence Kansas, this book highlights 13 unsolved mysteries in the Sunflower State. Last, but certainly not least, is Natalia Kreinbring. You’ll recognize her name as the publisher of Northland Lifestyle. Just Breathe is the true story of Natalia giving birth to her first child at just 26 weeks. Her son Beckett is now a happy, healthy 15-year-old, but the journey to this point is filled with heartbreak, hope and love. So grab a book or three or a dozen. Find a nice cozy chair and a warm blanket. Let your mind take you to another time and place. You’ll be a better and healthier person for the time you spend with a book in your hands.

LOCA LLY SOU R CE D | ARTS + CU LT U RE

CONTINUED >

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/NO RT HL A N D

Photo by Kristin Helling

Northland Bookstores Parkville Coffee 103 N. Main St., Parkville https://parkvillecoffee.com Basement Books 13 E. Kansas St., Liberty www.basementbookskc.com Eden Bookshop 118 N. Main St., Liberty Holy Grounds Coffee and Bookshop 342 N. Water St., Liberty Steel’s Used Books 7313 North Oak Trafficway, Gladstone Lucky Rabbit Books (inside The Rabbit hOle) 919 E 14th Avenue North Kansas City

Photo by Katie Currid

Photo by Kristin Helling

LOCA LLY SOU R CE D | ARTS + CU LT U RE

Big Ideas. Bright Colors.

2026

Art Classes

FIND YOUR CLASS: www.orangeeaselart.com

GREATER KANSAS CITY CHAPTER

JUNIOR COTILLION Give your child more than just an activity—provide them with skills that last a lifetime. Junior Cotillion invites students to immerse themselves in a world of elegance, courtesy, and character. Through engaging lessons in etiquette, social dance, and respectful communication, students gain the confidence and poise to thrive in any social or professional setting.

www.KCCotillion.com JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/NO RT HL A N D

THE ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY BROOKS BLAIR

Conway

C R E ATOR S Mother-daughter duo builds a digital legacy through family and entrepreneurship.

As we move towards the future, social media becomes a part of people’s lives more and more — but for this mother-daughter duo, it’s a crucial part of their job. Lori Conway and her daughter, Ella, both have careers that are built on the internet, their multiple accounts combined reaching over 2.1M followers. Lori’s internet story starts from her passion of sharing her life. “I’ve always loved to be able to share with people, like person to person,” says Lori. “When I started doing online marketing back in 2011, social media was a baby, and I decided to start sharing it on a very small scale on social media, and I realized it was such a growing community that I leaned into that.” Lori’s small bits of her life grew to sharing everything she could during the pandemic, where the only way she could share with others was the internet. “When Covid came around, and [I] shared those quick recipes that sort of helped other people learn to cook, it really started making a difference in people’s lives,” says Lori. While slowly growing, Lori looked for what the videos bringing the most traction had in common. But when she started thinking about it, she realised it wasn’t what she thought it would be. “I can remember being really frustrated during the early era of TikTok because I was doing a lot of different types of content on TikTok, and the ones that were seemingly taking off or going viral were the cooking videos, which were the most difficult videos to do,” says Lori.

With her growing popularity, Lori had to balance real life with her work online, especially to preserve her belief in having solid family time. “When you have a drive and a passion and you’re an entrepreneur, it’s really hard to tell someone not to work, because at the end of the day, when you are on fire for what you do, it doesn’t really feel like work.” Lori had to set boundaries for her work and personal life. “I just have to discipline myself to say, here’s the things that I’m going to finish today, and once that’s done, I’m going to make sure to make time for the priorities of my life, and it’s about inking things in your life and penciling in other things,” Lori says. “So I can change my content around all day long, but at 5:30, it’s dinner time, and that’s inked in. That’s something someone’s not gonna take away from me, so if I’m going to make a content video surrounding dinner that night, then I’m gonna make it a little bit earlier.” Spending intentional family time became even more important after the sudden loss of Lori’s husband, Quintin, last year. “Now I fast forward to our lives today, after losing my husband unexpectedly — how important that really is for a foundation of a family to have the time together,” says Lori. “Spend it together while you have it.” Lori’s husband Quintin Conway tragically and unexpectedly passed away April 9th, 2024. Lori is very open online about her grief and how the loss has impacted the family. Other than just CONTINUED >

T R E N D SE T T E R | L I FE + CU LT U RE

“I’ve always loved to be able to share with people.”

Photo by Creative Kaylee JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/NO RT HL A N D

Photo by Creative Kaylee

“When you have a drive and a passion and you’re an entrepreneur, losing a husband, Lori lost the patriarch of her family and her right-hand man who helped her behind the scenes. Quintin was always there to help with financial issues, last-second opinions over videos, and any other help Lori needed. While Lori sometimes steps back from the online world to navigate this new chapter, her oldest daughter, 19-year-old Ella, has been stepping forward in her own way. She also lost her dad, and while she and her family navigated their grief, Ella also moved toward her own creative path. Known as Ellavated Productions, Ella recently launched her online career — not in lifestyle content like her mom, but in photography, the passion she chose to pursue straight out of high school. “I decided to pursue photography after high school because, every day in high school, I was working towards something very entrepreneurial,” says Ella. “When I was thinking about going to college, I had the grades, I had everything for it, but I was like, ‘I can’t spend the amount of money it takes to go to college to do something I’ve already figured out how to do.’” To start getting clients fast, Ella started telling the community she was doing photo sessions, such as senior portraits and family photos. Being fresh out of high school and starting up her business, Ella quickly ran into many challenges, like cost and the skills she needed to learn to take her hobby to a professional level. “Some of the challenges were the cost,” says Ella. “The cost of an actual camera is insane. Another challenge is definitely that I learned it all on my own. I had a friend that knew a ton of things, but he had graduated before me, and so I was just kind of figuring it out.” Even if Ella is different from her mom, they share the same blood. Ella might have found photography on her own, but she always knew what entrepreneurship looked like. “Another push was both of my parents were entrepreneurs, and I think it’s just in my blood,” Ella said. “So I love it.”

T R E N D SE T T E R | L I FE + CU LT U RE

it’s really hard to tell someone not to work, because at the end of the day… it doesn’t really feel like work.”

Photo courtesy of the Conway family

You can read Lori’s blog, crazybusymama.com, or you can find her on Facebook at @loriwillisconway. Find Ella is on Instagram @ellavated_ productions, or you can view her photography at ellavatedproductions.com. This story was produced as part of our annual partnership with the Northland Center for Advanced Professional Studies, a program that partners local businesses with high school juniors and seniors to give them real-world experience. The story was written and photographed by Lawson High student Brooks Blair and edited by Oak Park High student Grace Ramirez.

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/NO RT HL A N D

CURIOUS WHETHER YOUR BRAIN AND BODY CAN LEARN A NEW WAY OF BEING? SCHEDULE A CONSULT AND EXPLORE HOW NEUROFEEDBACK AND SHIFTWAVE COULD SUPPORT YOU.

TRAIN YOUR BRAIN, CALM YOUR LIFE

At KCNPI, we help improve emotional regulation, focus, sleep, and resilience through evidence-informed integrative mental health care. What if your brain and body did not have to fight so hard just to get through the day? If you’re exhausted by anxiety, nonstop thoughts, or always feeling “on,” it may not be a willpower problem—it may be your nervous system stuck in survival mode. Your brain can learn new patterns of calm, focus, and flexibility at any age. At Kansas City Neuroplasticity Institute (KCNPI), licensed clinicians use neurofeedback and full body biofeedback to help retrain patterns so your system can finally exhale. Clients often notice better sleep, fewer spikes of anxiety, and more emotional steadiness. Ready to stop white-knuckling it? Learn more or schedule a consult at KCNPI.com.

Return to Your Center Reconnect with calm, clarity, and mindful movement this January at The Practice Studio. The Practice Studio — A sanctuary for mindful movement and whole-body wellbeing.

Start the year with intention. The Practice Studio offers a serene, thoughtfully designed space for yoga, Pilates, and restorative practices that bring

the mind and body back into

Book your January wellness experience and feel the difference of intentional movement.

harmony. Every visit is an invitation to breathe, move, and reset. Join us for classes that nurture your body and soothe your mind. From gentle flows to strengthening Pilates, our instructors guide you with care so you can step into the new year refreshed and realigned.

www.thepractice-studio.com 1528 NE 96th St, Suite B, Liberty, MO

Pa rkvi l le, MO

8 1 6 . 7 05 . 2 9 38

www. pa rkvi l lewinehou se.com

Discover Parkville Wine House We've transformed a 100-year-old home into a vibrant, energetic wine bar in downtown Parkville. Enjoy curated wine flights, premium spirits, local craft beers, and refined shareable plates in a space that honors its original charm. With exclusive clubs, live music, and private event opportunities, every visit invites you to savor exceptional taste in an unforgettable setting.

Ask us about our wine and beer club memberships!

I F YO U A R E R E A D I N G T H I S . . . S O I S YO U R B E S T C L I E N T.

2 OUT OF 3 of our readers regularly purchase from our ads.

ADVERTISE WITH NORTHLAND CITY LIFESTYLE™ L E A R N M O R E A T C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E . C O M / N O R T H L A N D

THE RESTAUR ANT for Private Events

Prima Facie is the premier place to host your next event. Need an intimate space for as few as 6 guests? Book our Bank Vault. Want to be near the action and need space for up to 24? Ask about our Piano Room. Have up to 45 guests who want to experience our amazing hospitality? The Mezzanine is perfect for you. Looking for something a bit more casual? The Market and Patio is the right spot for you.

www.primaparkville.com | 816.777.6315 12 E 1st St Parkville, MO 64152 |

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/NO RT HL A N D

BR E AT H E IN THE TREES ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEREDITH SCHNEIDER

O UT D OOR A DV E N T U R E | WE LLN E SS

EXPERIENCE FOREST BATHING IN THE NORTHLAND’S MOST TRANQUIL AND TREE-LINED TRAILS

Weston Bend State Park. Photo by Katie Currid

Looking to get out and do something truly invigorating for yourself? How about trying your hand at forest bathing? No matter what time of year it is, we always have free public access to some truly wonderful parks and green areas in the Northland. For your own health, it might be time to take advantage of that. But what is “forest bathing?” “Shinrin-yoku” or “forest bathing” was coined by the Japanese Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries in 1982. Loosely translated, it means allowing your senses to take in the forest habitat. Simply taking in the scenery as you leisurely walk or sit in the forest — indulging in the sights, sounds, and scents of the earth around you — is what this practice consists of. A blend of fitness and mindfulness, forest bathing is becoming more and more popular as people rush to detach from the world around them and yearn for more authentic connection. So, how can an act as simple as standing and experiencing the air as you breathe it in a particular environment be so beneficial for your body? Fresh air alone is known to optimize digestion, strengthen the immune system, and improve blood flow. If you have ever heard the rustling of leaves or birds chirping in your backyard, you know how safe and inviting the ambiance is. In a forest, you have the distinct pleasure of being completely cocooned by a natural soundtrack and energetic vibrations of vegetation and wildlife. Connecting with nature is a sustainable form of entertainment, allowing space to detach from screens and opportunities to develop healthy curiosities about nature and the world around you. Notice a plant you haven’t seen before? Experience a small creature in your stillness that you may never have paid attention to previously? Anything goes in nature, and it is so lively year-round. CONTINUED >

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/NO RT HL A N D

Hodge Park

Living closer to greenery — or getting regular amounts of fresh air in natural settings — is a known mood booster, cortisol reducer, and can aid in sleep regulation, as with all exposure to natural anti-inflammatories. Exposure to the sun can help to maintain your natural circadian rhythm, and is especially important right now as nearly two-thirds of Americans are vitamin D deficient. Below, a few top-notch places to forest bathe in Kansas City. PARKVILLE NATURE SANCTUARY While people love the riverfront, Parkville Nature Sanctuary is where it is at for a complete forest bathing experience. Not far into the trail loop and off to the left, you will find running water and some convenient seating options to really take it all in. You may find full families splashing around in the water on warmer weekends, but it feels like an uninterrupted gem in the cold weather months.

Hodge Park

BENNETT PARK While there isn’t much space to get lost in the trees in Bennett Park, this hidden gem is convenient for people who live in or near Liberty. Centrally located to much of the area, you can park close, walk to the greenery, and enjoy the stillness in small, scattered areas. You might even happen upon the albino squirrel family that lives there. WESTON BEND STATE PARK Platte County neighbors, rejoice! A small trek north of the suburbs of the Kansas City metro, you will find one of the most beautiful state parks in the area, Weston Bend. Charming hills and (sometimes) challenging trailheads that give way to incredible views make this park a perfect mini getaway. HODGE PARK Once you walk past the buffalo and living history museum portions of the area, Hodge Park actually offers some winding trail options through the trees. With less elevation, these trails are easier to navigate and there are some fantastic stumps and boulders to rest on. Start or end your walk with a picnic out in the field to really connect with the entire park. TERESA LYNN RYNARD PARK The entry to one of the paths in this park – often referred to as “Buckeye Greenway” – was built just within the tree line on Chouteau, just south of Parvin Road. A short walk from the Francois Chouteau and Native American Heritage Monument, this breathing room is easily accessible from a main street. The park is beautiful, expansive and feels like you are nowhere near the city center, even though the main entrance is just off of 210 Highway. HIDDEN VALLEY PARK This hilly landscape has several trailheads to choose from and is truly hidden, north of 210 Highway, between North Brighton Avenue and 435 Highway. I have been on this trail for hours without seeing another person, and there are a lot of picturesque places to stop and relax for a while. There are several routes and inclines, and many opportunities to relax along the path. (Including abandoned cars and creaky bridges!)

O UT D OOR A DV E N T U R E | WE LLN E SS

Maple Woods Natural Area

“ S I M P LY TA K I N G I N T H E S C E N E RY A S YO U L E I S U R E LY WA L K O R S I T I N T H E F O R E S T.”

Hodge Park CONTINUED > JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/NO RT HL A N D

Happy Rock Park

O UT D OOR A DV E N T U R E | WE LLN E SS

Bennett Park

HAPPY ROCK PARK While Happy Rock Park’s trailhead is mostly concrete and relatively easy to traverse, there is more to it than meets the eye. Popping into the creek area can provide a sense of adventure and detachment that will have you buzzing. While the nearby baseball diamonds and the busyness of the area may discourage you from forest bathing here, it is surprisingly cozy if you wander just a little way into the treeline. MAPLE WOODS NATURAL AREA Tucked just south of 152 Highway, you will find a small parking lot and bridge to the Maple Woods Natural Area. The trail is relatively expansive, kept up throughout the year, and a true escape from people. There is some incline, but so many opportunities to hang out and be still beneath the trees. STOCKSDALE PARK If you have space to travel east a bit, just past William Jewel College is an expansive park filled with neat features. From disc golf to art, to fields and baseball diamonds for all types of organized sports, you could truly spend a good chunk of time here. Wander off into the trees and you will very quickly feel like you are in a fairy tale. This is the park where I first heard cicadas, and is truly a place to disconnect. Spending at least 20 minutes a day in nature is linked to your overall well being. Pop into a wooded area to get a few moments of connection with mother earth – particularly at any of these spots – year-round!

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/NO RT HL A N D

d l i h c y r e v e e Wher nd i k a f o e n is o

STAY CONNECTED TO YOUR COMMUNITY FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM

Good news happening right in your neighborhood.

Inspiration for your best local life.

Exclusive giveaways.

Hidden gem alert!

New Hope

Local content by local creators.

Montessori School

Love · Learn · Grow

We provide a positive & nurturing environment for children from birth to third grade.

SCAN TO CONNECT

Now Accepting Teaching Applications 816.326.8878 | NewHopeMontessoriSchool.com 4166 NW Barry Rd, KCMO 64154

NORTHLAND CITY LIFESTYLE™

2024 KC Stars Second Generation Builder Founded in 2020, Stoneleaf Homes LLC is building high quality homes at multiple price points across the northland here in Kansas City. Owner, Alexis Miller Goin, is a second generation home builder and has implemented her knowledge for building and business in the same way her father and mother did for more than twenty years. She has fortified her building strategy to build cost-efficient homes, simplify the process for her clients, and maintain friendships with those she builds for while also maintaining great relationships with her subcontractors and vendors.

816-200-2441

www.stoneleafhomes.org

V STONELEAFHOMES

Embrace the Climb. DO WHAT OTHERS WON’T, SO YOU CAN DO WHAT OTHERS CAN’T.

PREMIER PLAYING SPACES FOR THE RECREATIONAL TO ELITE ATHLETE, TEAMS, PARTIES AND CORPORATE BUSINESSES. PROPERTY HOURS Mon-Sun: 7am-10pm

FITNESS CENTER HOURS Mon-Sun: 7am-8pm

LEA

Serving the Youth & Adults. Join us!

RN MORE

We embrace expectations, we embrace accountability, but above all we embrace the “athletic climb” to become the best version of ourselves! SCA

6014 N HWY 9. Parkville | 816-863-4111 | altsportsperformance@gmail.com portal.iclasspro.com/arcsouth | Valtsportsperformance JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/NO RT HL A N D

SLOW Down Discover rest, strength and awareness at The Practice Yoga & Pilates ARTICLE BY KATIE CURRID PHOTOGRAPHY BY HANNAH SCHREINER

Tucked in Liberty, The Practice Yoga and Pilates has been helping Northlanders move, breathe and reconnect with their bodies since 2023. Owner and founder Mandy Froehlich started the studio after a life-changing neck injury at 16 nudged her toward a lifetime of studying movement. She went on to earn degrees in exercise science, spent 20 years as a personal trainer, and eventually found her way into Pilates and yoga. Pilates hooked her first. Focused on spinal health, it helped ease the lingering effects of that neck injury. As Mandy explains, Joseph Pilates believed “we are only as young as our spine is flexible,” and urged students to “create a body that thinks for itself.” Yoga arrived a few years later, offering something she hadn’t expected: nervous system calm. After a class with a chiropractor/yoga teacher, she remembers feeling stronger, more flexible and genuinely at peace in her own body — and she never really stopped. Today, The Practice offers about 30 classes a week with around 10 instructors, from gentle unwind-and-stretch sessions to more vigorous vinyasa flows and mat Pilates. Classes cater to a wide range of skill levels — they have beginner-friendly and intentionally slower-paced classes, with some invigorating flow and fiery Pilates sprinkled in for those looking for more demanding classes. “Lately, I’ve been saying in my classes, slow down to find the work,” says Mandy. “Often, when our body is moving so quickly, it’s skipping out of doing the effort and slower is actually typically harder.” Mandy says changing our pace makes more work for the body, changing our muscle and nervous systems.

H EA LT H Y LIF E ST Y LE | H E ALT H + WE LLN E SS

It’s that blend of science and soul that defines The Practice. “We blend modern biomechanics with traditional and authentic yoga and pilates to reduce stress, improve flexibility and build strength from the inside out,” Mandy says. She loves watching students surprise themselves. “I love helping people discover awareness in their body that they didn’t have before,” says Mandy. “Proving to people that they can do something they didn’t think they could do is really awesome.”

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/NO RT HL A N D

8 Mindful Moves for the New Year ARTICLE BY KATIE CURRID | PHOTOGRAPHY BY HANNAH SCHREINER

Move into 2026 restored, recharged and aligned with The Practice Yoga and Pilates

To help you “slow down to find the work” as the year begins, Mandy from The Practice Yoga & Pilates Studio pulled together 8 restorative, matbased moves — all designed to be gentle, mindful and surprisingly powerful when you give them your full attention.

S ELF CA R E | HEALTH + WE LLN E SS

1. FOAM ROLLER HEART OPENER & ARM REACH

What it supports: Posture, core stability, upper-back and shoulder mobility; great for anyone who spends long hours driving or at a computer. How it works: From an all-fours position, a foam roller is placed between your knees. The knees gently squeeze the roller to wake up the adductors (inner thighs) and deep core. One hand presses into the mat while the other arm reaches up toward the sky, rotating through the upper back (thoracic spine). That gentle squeeze of the roller helps “turn on” the inner thighs, which in turn supports pelvic and lower-back stability, while the twist opens tight chest and shoulder muscles.

2. PILATES BRIDGE ON THE FOAM ROLLER

What it supports: Glute strength, core stability and balance. How it works: Lying on your back, heels are planted wide on the foam roller. As you press into your feet, you drive your knees out away from each other and lift your hips up, thinking about your tailbone reaching toward your calves. Balancing on the roller adds extra core demand, while the wide knees fire up the glutes and deep stabilizers around the pelvis. It’s a simple-looking move that quietly builds serious lower-body and core strength.

3. WIDE-LEG SEATED TWIST

What it supports: Hip mobility, tight hamstrings, a hydrated spine and oblique/core engagement. How it works: Seated with legs wide and active, you “root down” through your legs, then rotate your torso so the opposite hand reaches toward the opposite foot, allowing the back to gently round into the twist. This move is like a cousin to Pilates Saw — lengthening hamstrings, inviting more space into the hips and encouraging a supple, twist-friendly spine. The obliques join the party as you rotate, offering gentle core work while you stretch. CONTINUED > JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/NO RT HL A N D

4. STANDING CRISS-CROSS FORWARD FOLD

What it supports: Hamstring length, outer-hip release and a sneaky stretch through the IT band. How it works: Standing tall, you cross one leg slightly in front of the other, then fold forward over your legs. The criss-cross position shifts the stretch, tracing up the outer line of the leg and into the IT band while still giving the hamstrings plenty of love. It’s a simple variation on a classic forward fold that can feel amazing for runners, walkers or anyone with tight outer hips.

5. PILATES SWIMMER PREP

What it supports: Posterior chain strength — the entire back body, especially the upper back, glutes and hips. How it works: Lying on your stomach, you extend arms and legs long. One arm (to start, the right) and the opposite leg (for this, the left) lift off the floor. The focus isn’t on how high they go, but on reaching them longer, so the movement hinges at the shoulders and hips rather than collapsing into the low back. This classic Pilates pattern trains the muscles on the back side of the body to support posture, movement and balance. It’s especially helpful for counteracting all the forward-focused things we do all day.

6. SEATED DEER POSE (HALF-PIGEON VARIATION)

What it supports: Outer-hip release and targets lower-back tightness How it works: Seated with feet and knees wide, hands rest behind you to prop the chest open. From there, both knees drop to one side (for example, to the right), and the torso gently rotates in the same direction. This variation — often called deer pose in yoga — creates a layered stretch through the outer hips and lower back. It’s a cozy alternative to traditional pigeon pose.

S ELF CA R E | HEALTH + WE LLN E SS

7. SUPPORTED FISH

What it supports: Posture, chest opening and relief from a rounded upper back. How it works: Lying on your back, you place one yoga block beneath the upper back/heart area and another beneath the back of the head. The blocks lift the heart and skull, allowing the chest to gently arc open. Legs can stretch long or come into a butterfly shape with the soles of the feet together and knees wide. This heart opener offers a supported way to counter “hunchback” posture from phones, laptops and everyday life. Think of it as a passive front-body stretch with just enough spice to feel like a reset.

8. LEGS UP THE WALL WITH SANDBAG & DIAPHRAGMATIC BREATHING

If you like these poses and want to learn more, visit Mandy’s studio or you can follow along for more ideas on Instagram at @thepractice_yogaandpilates. She also posts yoga and Pilates poses daily on her pe sonal Instagram account @mandyfroehlich_ The Practice Yoga & Pilates Studio 1528 NE 96th St B, Liberty thepractice-studio.com

What it supports: Stress reduction, circulation, reduced leg swelling, pelvic floor and deep core awareness, plus overall nervous-system calm. How it works: Scoot your hips close to a wall and extend your legs up, resting your heels on the wall. A sandbag is placed gently on the belly. As you breathe, you watch the bag rise and fall, practicing slow, diaphragmatic (“belly”) breathing. Adding this intentional breathing practice helps activate the parasympathetic nervous system — the body’s rest-and-digest mode — so “your whole system starts to relax.” Over time, it also teaches a deeper relationship with the core and pelvic floor, reminding your body how to both soften and support from the inside out.

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/NO RT HL A N D

Uncompromising Luxury | Rapid Rehabilitation

IGNITE MEDICAL RESORT Kansas City Northland

New year, new strength. Ignite Medical Resort helps you recover in comfort, surrounded by expert care and luxury amenities that make every step toward healing feel like a step forward. Schedule a Tour today!

2100 NW Barry Rd, Kansas City, MO 64154

GUITAR BASS KEYS VOICE DRUMS

A FUN, COLLABORATIVE, COMMUNITY FOR KIDS TO LEARN AN INSTRUMENT, AND BE IN A BAND!

JOIN US FOR A FREE 30MINUTE TRIAL LESSON AND SEE WHAT IT’S LIKE TO BE PART OF THE TEAM!

1315 EAST ST. PARKVILLE MO. 64152 | 816-842-7625 36

(816)521-6610

Check out our Facebook!

@ignitemedicalresorts

GET INSPIRED EAT & DRINK SHOP LOCAL families | seniors w e d d i n g s | n e w b o r n s.

YO U R D I G I TA L D E S T I N AT I O N F O R LO C A L L I V I N G

My work focuses on genuine emotion, beautiful light, and storytelling you’ll treasure for years to come.

502.295.2251 hannahschreinerphotography.com @hannahschreinerphotography JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/NO RT HL A N D

JANUARY 2026

events A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LO C A L E V E N T S

Known. Challenged. Valued. At Oakhill, we guide tomorrow’s leaders through creativity, character, and community. A Place Where Your Child Is Seen & Known

Challenge, Enrichment & Experiential Learning

Helping Every Child Grow and Thrive

At Oakhill, small class sizes and caring teachers ensure your child isn’t a number — but a valued, unique learner in a supportive community.

At Oakhill, learning goes beyond the classroom — students explore nature, tackle hands-on projects, try new ideas, and learn about the world around them.

We emphasize not just what students learn, but who they become — nurturing character, problemsolving, and 21st-century readiness in a missiondriven independent school setting.

ALL THR OUGH JANUARY

The Rink at Zona Rosa Zona Rosa North Park The Northland’s outdoor ice rink returns for a season of public skating, pond hockey, lessons, parties, and holiday fun. Skate under the lights, enjoy nearby shopping and dining, and make winter memories at The Rink at Zona Rosa. Reservations recommended but not required; skate rentals available. JANUARY 12TH

Preschool Winter Fun North Kansas City Public Library | 10:00 AM Join us for winter-themed crafts, activities, and stories for preschool-aged kids. Registration required. Visit nkcpl.org. JANUARY 22ND

Tea Blend Workshop North Kansas City Public Library | 6:00 PM Join us for a tea blending workshop. Attendees learn about and experiment with different tea leaves and ingredients to create personalized blends. The workshop also includes a tasting of their creations. Registration required. Visit nkcpl.org. JANUARY 23 R D-24 TH

The best way to understand Oakhill is to experience it. Now enrolling Pretoddler (18 months) through 8th Grade — Schedule your visit today!

www.oakhilldayschool.org

816.436.6228 | admissions@oakhilldayschool.org 7019 N Cherry St, Gladstone, MO 64118 | V oakhillday | B oakhilldayschool 38

EVE N TS

Reel Liberty Film Festival B&B Theatres in Liberty | 6:30 PM Enjoy four extraterrestrial-themed films, from It Came From Outer Space to War of the Worlds, plus an after-party at Johnnie’s Jazz Bar & Grille. Tickets are $20 and include all screenings and a themed goodie bag. More info at libertymissouri.gov

JA N UA RY 2 4 T H

KPop Party North Kansas City Public Library | 10:00 AM Join us for an action-packed library adventure as K-pop meets the library! We will have different demon hunter activities and Korean snacks to enjoy. It's going to be golden! Registration required. Visit nkcpl.org. F E BRUA RY 1 ST

Chocolate Tour Downtown Excelsior Springs | 11:00 AM Indulge in a sweet escape at the 19th Annual Chocolate Tour in Downtown Excelsior Springs! Sample one-of-akind chocolate creations, explore charming shops, and enjoy trolley rides—all for just $28. This beloved event sells out every year, so grab your tickets fast and treat yourself to the sweetest day out. Get info at visitexcelsior.com.

Just another byproduct of these amazing animals... The tallow we use come from cattle humanely raised on our regenerative farm. Stop by our store to check out our full collection of products.

Want to be featured? G E T I N T O U C H AT CIT YLIFEST YLE .COM/ NORTHLAND

greengrasscattleco.com | 816-640-4009 17985 Missouri 45, Weston, MO 64098 JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/NO RT HL A N D

ARTICLE BY ANA MEYER PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

HAVE A FRESH NEW YEAR! NUTRITIOUS AND DELICIOUS FLAVORED WATER INFUSED

WITH ANTIOXIDANTS AND VITAMINS FOR A HEALTHIER YOU!

If there is one change you can make for your overall health, it is to drink more water! Our bodies need water. Water helps fuel every cell, tissue, and organ, keeps you hydrated, and helps with weight loss, healthy skin, bone health, and digestion. Take it to the next level and create infusion beverages by mixing and adding these ingredients to your water. Fruits, vegetables, and herbs are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals. You will love the flavors and the added health benefits!

BLUEBERRY & ORANGE INFUSED WATER:

STRAWBERRY & ORANGE INFUSED WATER:

INGREDIENTS • 1 ½ cups of blueberries • ½ cup sliced thin orange rounds • 8 cups filtered water

INGREDIENTS • 1 ½ cups of diced strawberries • ½ cup sliced thin orange rounds • 8 cups filtered water

DIRECTIONS Pour ingredients into a pitcher. Refrigerate for 3 hours.

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

ORANGE, LEMON & LIME INFUSED WATER:

CUCUMBER, LEMON, AND MINT INFUSED WATER:

INGREDIENTS • ¼ cup sliced thin lemon rounds • ¼ cup sliced thin lime rounds • ½ cup sliced thin orange rounds • 8 cups filtered water

INGREDIENTS • 1 cup of sliced thin cucumber rounds • ½ cup sliced thin lemon or lime rounds • 10 mint leaves • 8 cups filtered water

DIRECTIONS Pour ingredients into a pitcher. Refrigerate for 3 hours.

DIRECTIONS Pour ingredients into a pitcher. Refrigerate for 3 hours. CONTINUED >

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/NO RT HL A N D

BENEFITS: 42

• Blueberries: Low in sugar and high in antioxidants, blueberries are very nutrient-dense and contain fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K and Manganese. They can help with bones, skin, and blood pressure health. • Cucumbers: Cucumbers are about 95 percent water, have antioxidants that help lower blood pressure, contain vitamin A and are high in vitamin K. • Lemon/limes: Both are high in vitamin C, an antioxidant, which can benefit your skin, blood pressure and immune system. • Mint leaves: Mint’s anti-inflammatory properties can help your digestion, fresh breath and are rich in nutrients and antioxidants. • Oranges: Loaded with vitamin C, which can help your skin and immune system. They are anti-inflammatory and have potassium which can help with blood pressure levels and calcium for healthy bones. • Strawberries: Are loaded with antioxidants, low in sugar, may help improve blood sugar and cholesterol, and inflammation. Strawberries are rich in phytochemicals, vitamin C, vitamin A and Potassium. Try these delicious and healthy recipes or choose your ingredients and create your own!

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

real estate group

CHEERS TO 2026! It's going to be a wonderful and prosperous New Year for the Northland in 2026! Living in the Northland all of my life, it's been such a joy to see it grow and prosper over the years and I love being a part of it - helping people relocate, buy their first home, build their dream home, help them upsize and downsize. The Northland is still the best kept secret in the city! The Jenny Burkhead Group's value and reputation are the foundation of everything we do. With deep knowledge and personal connections, we pride ourselves in helping the neighborhood communities, local businesses and local charities. It's going to be a great year!

Cheers,

Jenny

GUIDANCE THAT MEETS YOU WHERE YOU ARE Every client’s journey is unique. My role is to listen first, advise with intention, and help you move with confidence. • Established Homes • New Construction

• Luxury Properties • Acreage & Land

• Downsizing & Rightsizing • Investment Opportunities

• Relocation • Second Homes

Learn More Today!

Each office is independently owned and operated. Office: 816.452.4200

JENNY BURKHEAD 816.547.9699 jennyburkhead@kw.com jennyburkheadgroup.com