Private Botanical Retreat with Architectural Elegance
Reimagined by architect John Bohn, this architectural statement focuses on light and geometry. Tucked away on a private lot once tended as a nursery, this one-of-a-kind PNW contemporary is cradled by verdant landscaping, mature plants, and blooming rhododendrons that breathe tranquility into every corner.
Making the Most of Summer
If you've lived in Washington long enough, you know that summer here is something special.
After months of gray skies, rain jackets, and checking the forecast one too many times, the arrival of summer feels like a reward. The sun lingers well into the evening, the mountains come into focus, patios fill with laughter, and suddenly everyone is eager to spend as much time outdoors as possible. It's the season that reminds us why we choose to call the Pacific Northwest home.
In this month's Explore issue, we're embracing that spirit of adventure and discovery that naturally comes with summer. Whether you're dreaming of a luxury getaway, planning a weekend excursion, or simply looking for new ways to enjoy the Eastside, you'll find plenty of inspiration in the pages ahead.
This issue features expert travel insights to help inspire your next escape, an exclusive look inside the fast paced world of hydroplane racing with local team Go Fast Turn Left Racing as anticipation builds for Seafair weekend, a roundup of ways to enjoy Bellevue outdoors this summer, a new read from a Pacific Northwest author, and a seasonal recipe perfect for your next backyard gathering.
While travel often takes us to new destinations, some of the best adventures happen right here at home. A morning on the lake, an evening concert in the park, a stroll through the farmers market, or a dinner shared with friends on the patio can be just as memorable as a trip across the globe. Sometimes exploration is simply about saying yes to new experiences and appreciating the beauty that's right in front of us.
As we soak up these long sunny days, I hope this issue inspires you to embrace the spirit of exploration, whether that means boarding a plane to somewhere new, discovering a hidden gem close to home, or simply spending more time enjoying everything our beautiful corner of the Pacific Northwest has to offer. Summer in Washington is fleeting, which makes it all the more worth savoring.
Thank you, as always, for inviting Bellevue Lifestyle into your home each month. Wishing you a summer filled with sunshine, adventure, and unforgettable memories. Cheers!
TAYLOR ROBINSON, PUBLISHER
July
PUBLISHER
Taylor Robinson | taylor.robinson@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Kristin Kowalewski | kris.kowalewski@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Akiha Studios | nicolai@akihamarketing.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Akiha Studios | kelsie@akihamarketing.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Alyssa Lavy, Bree O’Brien, Kali Kasprzyk, Megan Ewing, Susie Naficy
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Akiha Studios, Britt Jezak, Janie Jones, Pedro Carreira, Singita, Tomas Encina
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
2026 Visit our Instagram
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
Proverbs 3:5-6
YOUR BEST SELF AT EVERY AGE Elevate
Rejuvenate Your Look and Rediscover Your Youthful Glow!
Our expert team offers a full spectrum of rejuvenation treatments, from minimally invasive procedures to advanced surgical options. Let us help you achieve your aesthetic goals with personalized plans tailored to your unique needs and desires. With years of experience and a commitment to the latest techniques, we’ll guide you on your journey to a more refined you!
Your journey to a more youthful appearance begins with a personalized plan. Contact us to schedule your private consultation and discover your custom glow.
Experience the science of transformation. Experience the Stern Center difference.
Creating Natural Appearing Results for Over 25 Years!
• Facial Surgery • Eyelid Surgery/Blepharoplasty • Brow Lift • S-Lift (Vertical Facelift)
• Neuromodulators: Botox® | Daxxify® | Letybo®
• Dermal Fillers • Fat Transfer • Halo® Fractional Laser • Moxi® Laser
• Sciton BBL Hero® (Broad Band Light) • ForeverYoung® BBL • Clear V®
• ClearSilk® • Forever Clear BBL® for Acne • SkinTyte II® Laser • Laser Resurfacing
• Laser Hair Removal • Cartessa VirtueRF Microneedling • Chemical Peels
• Visia® Skin Analysis • HydraFacial MD™ • Medical Grade Skin Care Products
• Vitamin Infusions • PRP for Hair Loss and Facial Rejuvenation
At the Stern Center for Aesthetics our mission is to instill a renewed sense of self confidence for our patients. We are passionate about creating natural appearing results while employing state of the art techniques and providing an outstanding experience for our patients in a warm, caring environment.
@TheSternCenterAesthetics @TheSternCenter
TheSternCenter.com | 425-455-9100
Fredric A. Stern, MD FACS | Facial Plastic Surgeon | Voted Best Cosmetic Surgeon
city scene
Bellevue in Bloom Presented by Bellevue Lifestyle Magazine 1: An unforgettable Mother’s Day weekend afternoon celebrating the incredible women in our community at MI Funny Farm. 2: Beautiful lounge moments throughout the venue, thoughtfully styled by Fanciful Rentals for Bellevue in Bloom. 3: The magic behind Bellevue in Bloom, thoughtfully planned by Kayla Cook Events. 4: Fashion, artistry, and lasting memories brought to life by Galina of D.Blue. 5: Welcome bubbles poured by Amy of Pinstripe Wines. 7: Capturing sweet moments and spring memories among the garden. Photography by Akiha Studios
9: Spring style finds and curated shopping courtesy of local women’s store, Emry Boutique. 10: Guests enjoyed a VIP arrival experience courtesy of Butler Seattle. 11: Branded details and custom rentals by On the Wall Design Studio elevated every moment. 12: Fresh stems, endless creativity, and beautiful bouquets at the Bloom Bar by Nadira Design. 13: Gigi’s Garden kept glasses full and spirits high all afternoon long. 14: Whimsical roaming petal characters by Maison De V brought the garden to life. Photography by Akiha Studios
15: DJ Chardonnay kept the garden party vibes flowing all afternoon long. 16: Relaxation was in full bloom with massages and wellness services by The Concierge Nurse Services. 18: Custom permanent jewelry by The Social Chain Co. added the perfect finishing touch. 19: Swinging into spring with floral artistry by Belle’s & Whistles Design. Photography by Akiha Studios
22: Picture-perfect memories made at the photo booth by The Friday Co. 23: Expert skincare and aesthetic insights from the team at Kucumber Skin Lounge. 24: Elevated beauty moments courtesy of Prada Beauty. 27: Delicious light bites crafted by Dished by Rachel. 28: Bellevue in Bloom wouldn’t have been possible without the support of our amazing sponsors. Photography by Akiha Studios
city scene CONTINUED
College Planning Seminar Lead by Mirelle Education 29: An insightful evening on how families can help students build strong academic and personal foundations long before college applications begin. 30: Founder of Mirelle Education, Rosy Zhong, lead the exclusive seminar at the Bellevue Club.
Want to be seen in the
magazine?
TAG YOUR INSTAGRAM PHOTOS WITH @BELLEVUELIFESTYLE
STAY CONNECTED TO YOUR COMMUNITY
FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM
business monthly
A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
Fireworks, Music, And Community Celebration at Bellevue Downtown Park
Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary at Bellevue Family Fourth, the Eastside’s largest Independence Day event at Bellevue Downtown Park. Presented by The Bellevue Collection, the evening features live music, family fun activities, and a spectacular fireworks show lighting up the Bellevue skyline. Co-produced with the City of Bellevue, this beloved community tradition promises an unforgettable Fourth of July celebration.
Bellevue Arts Fair Weekend
Bellevue Arts Fair Weekend returns July 24th–26th, transforming Downtown Bellevue into a vibrant celebration of art, culture, and community. This iconic summer event features 350+ legacy and emerging artists exhibiting across 20+ mediums, alongside immersive cultural performances, interactive art projects, artists-in-action, educational experiences, food trucks, and culinary tastings. Rooted in Bellevue’s rich arts legacy, Bellevue Arts Fair Weekend continues to bring people together through creativity, connection, and inspiring experiences for all ages. bellevueartsfair.org.
Ear Piercing Studio Rowan Opens First Washington Location: Bellevue Square!
Rowan, the mom-founded, women-led ear piercing and hypoallergenic jewelry brand with 100+ studios nationwide, is now open at Bellevue Square — its first Washington location! Following the Rowan Clinical Piercing Standard®, Rowan provides ear piercing by nurses only with hypoallergenic earrings always, and aftercare is never an afterthought. At Rowan, every piercing is a milestone, and every milestone can be celebrated with a piercing. Book at heyrowan.com
Photography by BDA
Want to be featured?
2026 Bellevue City Amateur
The Bellevue City Amateur is the premier amateur golf tournament on Seattle's Eastside. This year's event takes place at Bellevue Golf Course on Saturday, July 25th and Sunday, July 26th, and is open to amateur golfers with a USGA handicap index of 24.0 or less. Your entry includes two rounds of golf, lunch, range balls, KP prizes, and prize fund. Entries are available at bellevuepgc.com with a field limit of 168 players. We look forward to seeing you!
A Front Row Seat to Summer
For generations, Seafair Weekend has marked the unofficial peak of summer in the Pacific Northwest! Held along the shores of Lake Washington, this iconic Seattle tradition features thrilling hydroplane races, breathtaking performances by the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, live entertainment, family-friendly activities, food vendors, and waterfront festivities. Drawing thousands of spectators each year, Seafair Weekend is a celebration of speed, community, and summer fun. Join the festivities July 31st–August 2nd from 8:30 am to 6 pm.
Free Lunchtime Concerts Return to Downtown Bellevue This Summer
The Live at Lunch Concert Series returns July 7th–September 11th with 51 free performances across 15 Downtown Bellevue venues, including exciting new locations! Step away from the office and enjoy live local music, sunshine, and delicious bites from food trucks and nearby restaurants, all within walking distance in the heart of downtown. Explore the full lineup at bellevuedowntown.com/live-at-lunch
Photography by BDA
Designing Your Next Escape
Luxury travel advisor Maria Regis, founder of Registry Travel, shares three unforgettable destinations worth exploring
ARTICLE BY TAYLOR ROBINSON | PHOTOGRAPHY AS NOTED
Maria’s love of travel began long before she founded Registry Travel. Growing up, she dreamed of seeing the world and one day visiting all seven continents. That passion eventually led her around the globe through a decade of service as a U.S. Navy helicopter pilot, where she specialized in logistics and operations, lived throughout the United States, spent three years in Japan, and worked alongside people from a wide variety of backgrounds and cultures. Later, she and her husband embarked on their own year long journey around the world, ultimately reaching their seventh continent and fulfilling a lifelong goal. It was through those experiences that Maria developed a deeper appreciation not only for travel itself, but for the many different ways people experience a destination.
Today, as the owner of Registry Travel, Maria combines her firsthand travel experience, destination knowledge, and relationships with trusted partners around the world to create personalized itineraries tailored to each client. She believes the most
memorable journeys are not simply about checking destinations off a list, but about creating opportunities to genuinely connect with a place. By taking the time to understand her clients’ travel styles, interests, family dynamics, and goals, she designs experiences that reflect the people taking them.
For Maria, luxury travel is no longer defined solely by five star accommodations or exclusive amenities. Instead, she believes true luxury lies in creating experiences that are intentional, personal, and impossible to replicate online. Whether celebrating a milestone, embarking on a once in a lifetime adventure, or revisiting a favorite destination from a fresh perspective, meaningful travel is ultimately about the stories, connections, and memories that remain long after returning home.
Bellevue Lifestyle caught up with Maria to learn about three destinations currently inspiring travelers and why they deserve a place on your travel wish list...
Founder of Registry Travel, Maria Regis
The Adriatic Coast: Corfu & Montenegro
The quieter corners of the Adriatic, particularly Corfu, Greece and Montenegro, offer such a different side of the Mediterranean. Corfu especially surprises people. Rather than the whitewashed villages many associate with Greece, it feels lush, green, and almost Italian in certain areas. Days here are best spent slowly moving between seaside villages, long lunches overlooking the water, boating along the coastline, and settling into the rhythm of the destination.
That same understated beauty extends into Montenegro, which continues to emerge as one of Europe’s most understated luxury destinations. I’m especially excited about the reopening of Aman Sveti Stefan, a 15th century fortified fishing village that has been revamped into an ultra -luxury resort. I’ve always loved hotels that thoughtfully restore historic properties because they create such a strong sense of place and become part of the overall experience itself.
This is a great destination for travelers who enjoy slower-paced itineraries, couples, yacht travelers, and anyone seeking a more refined Mediterranean experience away from peak-season crowds. Late May through early July is wonderful for classic summertime energy, though personally I love visiting in September when the weather is still warm but the crowds begin to thin out.
Corfu, Greece
Montenegro
Corfu, Greece
South Africa
South Africa is one of my favorite destinations because it offers such a balanced and approachable introduction to Africa. What makes South Africa especially exciting is the incredible variety of experiences you can have within one itinerary. You can start in vibrant Cape Town with its amazing restaurant scene, beautiful coastline, and easy access to iconic spots like the Cape of Good Hope and Boulders Beach , where you can see the resident penguin colony. From there, you can head into wine country for world-class food, stunning vineyard landscapes, and some of the best viticulture in the Southern Hemisphere before transitioning into safari.
The private reserves and national parks throughout the region offer some of the best wildlife viewing in Africa, with exceptional opportunities to see the Big Five in a truly luxurious setting. What I especially love is how seamlessly South Africa connects with neighboring destinations depending on your interests — whether that’s Namibia’s dramatic desert landscapes, Botswana’s Okavango Delta, Victoria Falls, or barefoot luxury along the beaches of Mozambique. It’s one of those rare destinations where you can pair deeply immersive experiences with exceptional luxury hospitality while still feeling incredibly connected to the destination itself.
I especially love recommending South Africa for honeymooners, milestone anniversaries, or travelers wanting a blend of romance, adventure, food, wine, and wildlife within one seamless journey. It’s truly a great year-round destination depending on your focus: May through September is ideal for safari season and cooler, drier weather, while November through March is perfect for Cape Town and the Garden Route. Personally, I love September/October or April for travelers wanting the best of both worlds.
Singita Castleton by Singita
Singita Lebombo Pool Area by Singita
Atacama Desert, Chile
The Atacama Desert remains firmly on my personal bucket list. I’ve traveled extensively throughout South America and absolutely love the contrast between its vibrant cities and remote outdoor landscapes, some of the most unique in the world. The Atacama feels almost otherworldly, with dramatic scenery that constantly shifts between high-altitude lagoons, thermal pools, salt flats, roaming flamingos, volcanic peaks, and the surreal landscapes of Moon Valley. It’s also home to some of the clearest stargazing on Earth, where the Milky truly shines.
What makes the Atacama especially appealing to me is the balance between adventure and restoration. After long days
exploring these remote landscapes, you return to beautifully designed lodges like Tierra Atacama or Explora Atacama, where the experience is equally focused on wellness, design, and connection to the surrounding environment. It’s the kind of destination that allows you to completely disconnect while still experiencing an incredibly high level of comfort and hospitality.
I especially love recommending the Atacama for outdoor enthusiasts, photographers, and travelers seeking remote luxury experiences with a strong sense of adventure. The best times to visit are generally March through May and September through November when temperatures are more comfortable and ideal for outdoor exploration.
Tierra Atacama by Pedro Carreira
Tierra Atacama by Pedro Carreira
Photo by Singita
TURNING LEFT AT 200 MILES PER HOUR
INSIDE THE WILD WORLD OF H1 HYDROPLANE RACING
ARTICLE BY SUSIE NAFICY
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF GO FAST TURN LEFT RACING
For most people in the Pacific Northwest, hydroplane racing is something they glimpse once a year during Seafair: loud boats, giant rooster tails, and crowds lining Lake Washington. But beneath that annual spectacle, there is an entire racing world built on family dynasties, engineering obsession, and boats capable of reaching nearly 200 miles per hour while skimming the surface of the water.
At the center of that world in Washington state is Go Fast Turn Left Racing, a Maple Valley-based H1 Unlimited hydroplane team that has quietly become one of the sport’s most recognizable grassroots organizations.
The team’s story begins decades ago with founder Greg O’Farrell, whose fascination with hydroplane racing started at Seattle’s Seafair when he was just 10 years old. During that event, O’Farrell got the opportunity to ride with legendary driver Bill Muncey in the famous Miss Thriftway Too hydroplane. It was a moment that would shape the rest of his life. Years later, O’Farrell began sponsoring racing teams before officially founding Go Fast Turn Left LLC in 2004 after purchasing his first unlimited hydroplane hull, the U-48.
Today, the organization has become a multi-generational family operation. Greg’s grandson, Gunnar O’Farrell, now pilots the team’s U-21 hydroplane, while Gunnar’s father Brian serves as co-owner. Gunnar’s sister Makenna manages the team, and Gunnar’s wife Marina oversees social media and public relations.
This family-centered structure is surprisingly common in hydroplane racing.
Unlike NASCAR or Formula 1, H1 Unlimited remains a niche motorsport sustained largely through regional sponsorships, passionate owners, and small but deeply committed racing communities. Many teams operate more like highly specialized family businesses than giant corporate entities.
To understand H1 racing, it helps to understand just how extreme these machines really are.
Modern unlimited hydroplanes are lightweight aircraft-inspired boats that barely touch the water at speed. Much of the hull actually rides on trapped air, reducing drag and allowing the boats to corner aggressively while maintaining incredible velocity. Drivers battle on ovalstyle courses, often reaching speeds close to 200 mph while pulling intense G-forces through turns.
The season itself is shorter than many mainstream racing leagues, but intensely competitive. It begins each May with spring testing in Tri-Cities, Washington, before continuing through the summer with races in Indiana, Seattle, California, and other host cities. Teams compete for the APBA National High Points Championship while also chasing the prestigious Gold Cup, widely considered the oldest active trophy in motorsports history dating back to 1904.
The 2026 H1 schedule includes stops in:
• Tri-Cities, Washington
• Madison, Indiana
• Seattle, Washington
• San Diego, California
Driver, Gunnar O'Farrell
Historically, however, hydroplane racing stretched far beyond the Pacific Northwest. Previous race sites have included Miami, Pearl Harbor, Qatar, Acapulco, Detroit, Washington D.C., and even Doha, Qatar, illustrating how globally ambitious the sport once was.
The boats themselves are engineering marvels.
Over the decades, hydroplanes evolved from older “shovel nose” designs into the modern “pickle fork” hulls seen today.
A major turning point came in the 1980s when the famous Miss Budweiser team pioneered turbine-powered “T boats,” fundamentally changing the sport’s technology. Modern hulls often trace their lineage back to those designs.
Go Fast Turn Left’s current U-21 hydroplane was actually built by the team themselves at their Maple Valley shop and debuted in Tri-Cities in 2019. The hull combines aluminum, honeycomb structures, fiberglass, and carbon fiber, reflecting how hydroplane construction increasingly resembles aerospace engineering.
Running one of these boats requires far more than a driver.
A typical H1 team includes mechanics, electricians, propeller specialists, fabricators, and logistics crews. Many drivers and crew members race in smaller APBA classes outside the H1 season as well. Gunnar O’Farrell himself began racing outboard
hydroplanes at just nine years old before eventually advancing into unlimited racing.
That development pipeline remains one of the sport’s biggest priorities.
Organizations like the Seattle Outboard Association now host “New Folks in Boats” programs, where beginners can drive race-ready hydroplanes under supervision. Meanwhile, the Hydroplane and Raceboat Museum (HARM) in Kent, Washington has become one of the sport’s most important cultural hubs, preserving historic boats while teaching younger generations how to build and race them.
For Go Fast Turn Left, the future of hydroplane racing likely depends on expanding beyond its traditional audience.
The team is heavily focused on growing its social media presence and attracting younger fans who may have never seen a hydroplane race before. Like many within H1, they believe the sport still holds untapped mainstream potential, especially if sponsorships return and additional race sites are revived. Teams like Go Fast Turn Left continue building, tuning, and launching some of the fastest boats on Earth, still chasing the same thrill that captivated a 10-year-old boy at Seafair decades ago.
A Fantasy Story for the Summer
ARTICLE BY BREE O’BRIEN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRITT JEZAK
Local author Maxine Taylor has been writing fiction, specifically romantic fantasy, for six years. Born and raised in the Pacific Northwest, nature is one thing that reliably sparks her imagination. While gazing at a greenbelt near her home, she found herself asking questions like, “What if a tree was a woman? And what if she grew up in a women-only society that had historically been at war with men?” Inspiration can strike at the most surprising of times, and Taylor mentions that her first book - an unpublished novel - was inspired by a dream.
This year, Taylor is celebrating her first published novel, Heart of Wood & Steel (available at major booksellers), which she chose to self-publish in February. Taylor notes the support she’s received from her local authors group was a motivator, and says that connecting with other writers has been a valuable part of the process. “It was my belief in the story, but also my author community’s belief in the story, that was a kick in the pants to get it out there,” she says.
“I found this community by attending local author events. I was at an event for a well-known writer at the Northgate Barnes & Noble, and happened to be standing next to an author who is now a good friend of mine. We were chatting and she asked, ‘Are you an author?’ I said, ‘I am, are you?’ She said yes, and turned out to be well-connected in the local writing community. She brought me into it and was a total bridge builder, connecting this amazing group of people who stay in touch and try to get together and write every month.”
A blurb for Heart of Wood & Steel reads, “Eryna Thorne is the last of her people. Even as the final Dryad born in a century, she longs to escape her sheltered forest life and taste the freedom of the human world. But, humans are the Dryads’ greatest enemy and threat as they hunt and kill Dryads in search of the three magical Oak hearts that keep the forest alive.” Taylor shares that readers have already been asking for a sequel, which she plans to start soon. “The book feels like a trilogy to me, but it can also be enjoyed as a standalone,” she says.
When considering her audience for this book, Taylor says it’s adult women who enjoy contemporary stories with fantasy twists, women like herself. Asked if she has any advice for aspiring authors, she says, “Write the stories that you want to read. Just do it and don’t think too hard about it because you can’t develop or edit a blank page. Go into it naively with every belief in yourself and every belief that what you’re writing is worth reading. Because it is. You can’t have too much audacity.”
To learn more about Maxine Taylor and her books, visit mtaylorauthor.com
“It was my belief in the story, but also my author community’s belief in the story, that was a kick in the pants to get it out there,” she says.
ARTICLE BY MEGAN EWING
Summer Starts Outside
Paddle Into Sunset Views
Grab a kayak or paddleboard at Meydenbauer Bay Park and glide across sparkling water while the Bellevue skyline glows nearby. It’s the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and unbeatable summer scenery.
Wander Through Colorful Gardens
Hidden paths and vibrant flowers make Bellevue Botanical Garden feel like a secret escape. Bring your camera, enjoy shady trails, and soak up one of Bellevue’s prettiest outdoor spots.
Cruise the Lake to Lake Trail
Trade traffic for fresh air on the scenic Lake to Lake Trail. This local favorite winds past forests, parks, and waterfront views perfect for biking, jogging, or a casual afternoon stroll.
Picnic During Outdoor Concerts
Nothing says summer like live music at Bellevue Downtown Park. Pack snacks, spread out a blanket, and enjoy an evening filled with entertainment, people-watching, and warm Pacific Northwest nights.
Escape Into Mercer Slough
Swap city streets for peaceful boardwalks at Mercer Slough Nature Park. Spot birds, wander through wetlands, and enjoy a refreshing outdoor adventure right in our backyard.
Persimmon Design
Interior Design and Landscape Design
425-736-5488
persimmon.design@outlook.com www.persimmon.design We
Experience unparalleled luxury senior living at The Bellettini, located in the heart of beautiful downtown Bellevue.
Our senior living community offers both Independent Living and Assisted Living services, blending comfort with luxury for an exceptional living experience.
We offer many amenities from delicious dining, valet parking, 24 hour concierge service, full kitchens, a vibrant social environment and much more.
Schedule a tour today to see the beauty that The Bellettini has to offer. thebellettini.com
ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE
The 10% Target Mindset
Jen Cohen ON THE PRACTICE OF ASKING FOR WHAT YOU WANT
Winnipeg in the winter, and a 17-year-old waits 45 minutes in the cold for Keanu Reeves. Her fingers are numb. She is not there for an autograph. She is there to ask him to appear in her audition tape for MuchMusic, Canada’s MTV. When he finally agrees, she writes her number on a gum wrapper with a borrowed lip liner.
He calls days later.
That 17-year-old was Jen Cohen — fitness expert, host of the Habits & Hustle podcast, and best-selling author. She has built a career on the premise her frostbitten afternoon proved. She calls the practice the 10% Target: 10 attempts at whatever you want most in life.
The premise is simple. Most people never make one attempt. Almost nobody makes two. The math works in favor of the person who keeps going.
The top-rated Habits & Hustle podcast has logged hundreds of conversations with high performers and the people who study what the body does to the mind. Her TEDx talk, The Secret to Getting Anything You Want in Life, has traveled widely inside Fortune 500 sales-training rooms. On the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Cohen sits down to share the working rules that are the foundation of her latest book, Bigger, Better, Bolder.
“You have to be the CEO of your own life.”
FEATURING JEN COHEN
Discover the full 10% Target Mindset framework.
1 2
MAKE TEN ATTEMPTS
The door opens, or another door does. The unmade attempt and the refused one leave you in the same place — except one of them teaches you something.
STACK THE DECK
Cohen frames her habits as a wager: How do I stack the deck so I win more than I lose? The workout happens first, and the food decisions follow. The email follow-up gets sent, and the answer arrives. The choices compound in a single direction.
3
DISCIPLINE IS A PRACTICED SKILL, NOT AN INHERITANCE
No one is born with it. The people who look disciplined are running a routine they have rehearsed long enough that it no longer feels like effort. The reps are the skill. Miss them, and the skill fades, the same as any other.
4
SELF-TALK ONLY WORKS WHEN THE BODY BACKS IT UP
Confidence does not arrive by repeating the word. It arrives after the body has done the thing — the workout finished, the cold walk endured, the email sent. The mind takes its cues from what the body proves it can do. Talk follows action, not the other way around.
5
NEVER MISS A MONDAY
The first decision sets the slope of the rest. Skip the Monday workout, and the rest of the week tends to follow. Hold the line on Monday, and the slope tilts the other way.
Summer Seafood Gazpacho
ARTICLE BY ALYSSA LAVY, MS, RD, CDN
A REFRESHING, CHILLED, SUMMER FORWARD SOUP THAT PACKS IN PROTEIN AND FIBER!
This summer seafood gazpacho screams summer and is the perfect, refreshing meal, snack or appetizer to beat the heat - whether you’re entertaining or enjoying a quiet meal with family. It’s packed with some of the season’s most flavorful produce and provides satisfying fiber and protein to help keep you feeling full, while still being light enough to enjoy on the hottest of summer days. Plus, there is no need to turn on the oven or the stove, keeping your kitchen (and you) cool as a cucumber! You can enjoy this chilled soup as is, or add toppings like chopped jalapeños, cilantro, or creme fraiche and scoop it up with tortilla chips!
Ingredients: (yields ~8 C gazpacho)
• 8 large tomatoes
• 1 large cucumber
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 small sweet onion
• 1 jalapeño pepper
• ½ tsp hot sauce
• 3 Tbsp lemon juice
• 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 Tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 ¼ tsp kosher salt
• ½ tsp ground black pepper
• 2 Tbsp parsley (fresh or dried)
• 8 oz lump crab meat
• 8 oz cooked shrimp, chilled (about 8-12 large shrimp)
*Optional suggested toppings include: cilantro, tortilla chips, chopped jalapeños, creme fraiche, or additional parsley.
Directions:
1. Cut tomatoes into large chunks, approximately 6-8 pieces each. Set aside.
2. Slice cucumber into thick slices. Set aside.
3. Mince garlic. Set aside.
4. Chop onion into medium sized pieces. Set aside.
5. Slice jalapeño pepper in half, lengthwise. Remove seeds if you prefer less heat. Chop jalapeño pepper and set aside.
6. Add tomatoes to large food processor. You may need to add about half of the tomatoes, pulse for a few seconds and then add the remaining tomatoes depending on the size of your food processor. Pulse tomatoes until chunky and slightly pureed. You will continue to puree the tomatoes once the additional ingredients are added, so do not pulse until completely smooth.
7. Add remaining vegetables (cucumber, garlic, onion, jalapeño pepper) to food processor with the tomatoes. Add hot sauce, lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, pepper and parsley. Replace the lid and pulse to desired consistency – the gazpacho should be pureed, but still somewhat chunky and not completely smooth.
Alyssa Lavy, MS, RD, CDN, CPT is a registered dietitian, personal trainer and mom of 2. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from The George Washington University and her Master of Science in Nutrition and Exercise Physiology from Teachers College Columbia University, where she also completed her dietetic internship. She has been an ACSM certified personal trainer for over a decade. Alyssa is the owner of Alyssa Lavy Nutrition & Wellness, a wellness brand offering nutrition communications, program development and consulting services for individuals and corporations.
Website: alyssalavy.com Instagram: @alyssalavyrd
8. Store in an airtight container and chill in the fridge for at least one hour before serving. If not serving right away, this gazpacho can be made in advance and stored in the fridge overnight or for a few days until ready to serve. If making this gazpacho in advance, purchase fresh seafood or thaw frozen within 1 day of serving to keep seafood fresh and store seafood separately, only adding when ready to serve. When ready to serve, chop the shrimp and add approximately 1-2 oz chopped shrimp and ~1 oz crab meat to each bowl. You can add optional toppings, such as chopped cilantro, chopped jalapeños, tortilla chips, creme fraiche and an additional sprinkle of parsley, if preferred. Enjoy!
Note: This gazpacho can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for up for 4 days, without the seafood. Store seafood separately and add when ready to consume.
Expert property management and leasing services for King + Snohomish County Your Property, Our Focus
Lori Gill & Associates brings together licensed brokers, leasing specialists, accountants, and compliance experts to keep your property leased, maintained, and profitable. Locally owned with offices in Bellevue, Seattle, and Mill Creek, we serve King and Snohomish county owners with the kind of personalized care and deep market knowledge no national firm can match.
JULY 1ST
Summer of Soccer Celebration in
Downtown Bellevue
Downtown Bellevue
As FIFA World Cup excitement builds this summer, Bellevue Downtown Association is bringing free, community-focused activations to Downtown Bellevue. Experiences will take place near Bellevue Downtown and South Bellevue stations and along the Grand Connection. From soccer-themed activities to street décor, visitors can look forward to family-friendly programming. These moments are designed to bring people together and celebrate the energy of the season in a welcoming, shared downtown setting.
JULY 3RD
Summer Concert Series at Suncadia Social
Suncadia, Cle Elum, WA
Spend summer evenings at Suncadia Social’s Summer Concert Series, held Fridays and Saturdays through Labor Day Weekend. Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy live music from local bands on The Green. With food, drinks, and a lively community atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to relax, gather with friends and family, and soak up the season.
JULY 10TH
Summer Concert Series at Marymoor Park
Marymoor Park
Experience summer under the stars at Concerts at Marymoor in Redmond. This popular outdoor series brings nationally touring artists and fan-favorite bands to an intimate open-air venue throughout the season. Enjoy live music, local food and beverages, and warm evenings surrounded by the beauty of Marymoor Park. View the full concert lineup at marymoorlive.com/shows
CONTINUED
JULY 11TH
Seattle to Portland Bicycle Classic
University of Washington E-18 Lot 5:00 AM
The Seattle to Portland Bicycle Classic presented by Alaska Airlines returns for its 47th year in 2026. This iconic 206-mile ride takes cyclists from Seattle to Portland through scenic countryside and charming small towns. Riders can complete the route in one or two days while enjoying supported rest stops and a strong sense of community. Registration supports the programs of Cascade Bicycle Club. To register visit https://cascade.org/ rides-events/seattle-portland-2026
JULY 17TH
Kirkland Uncorked
Marina Park
Sip, savor, and celebrate summer at Kirkland Uncorked, the Pacific Northwest’s premier waterfront wine festival. Held at Marina Park, this three-day event features 50+ Washington wineries, craft cocktails, local brews, gourmet food, live music, and an artisan makers market. With stunning Lake Washington views and a lively atmosphere, it’s the perfect weekend to gather with friends and experience the best of Washington wine, food, and entertainment.
JULY 25TH
Seafair Torchlight Run
Pier 62 on Seattle Waterfront | 6:00 PM
Design Studio + Shop
Open Monday-Saturday | 108 5 Ave S, Edmonds th @commonformme | commonformme.com
Kick off one of Seattle’s most beloved summer traditions at the Kaiser Permanente Seafair Torchlight Run. This festive 5K welcomes runners and walkers of all ages to the Seattle waterfront for an evening of community, entertainment, and scenic city views. Participants are encouraged to “Light Up the Night” with glowing attire before crossing the finish line and enjoying the iconic Alaska Airlines Seafair Torchlight Parade that follows.
Since 1852, sleep has been our craft.
Built by hand using natural materials and time-honored techniques, each Hästens bed is shaped through generations of Swedish craftsmanship. Horsehair, wool, cotton, flax, and pine are thoughtfully layered to support breathability, comfort, and restorative sleep designed to last for decades.
Experience a more considered approach to rest.
