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The Kids + Pets Issue
This issue holds a special place in my heart. Children are more than just the future —they are the heartbeat of our communities today. Their laughter, their curiosity and their potential shape the world in ways we can’t fully measure.
As parents and caregivers, we put so much effort into nurturing their growth, teaching them and investing in their futures. But let’s not forget that children also shape us — they bring joy, laughter and meaning to our everyday lives.
But we also cannot overlook the powerful role pets play in our families. They offer unconditional love and teach us valuable lessons in empathy, responsibility and companionship. The bond between kids and their pets can be transformative, fostering deep emotional connections that last a lifetime.
At the core of both children and pets is a simple truth — they need us. Our care and attention shape who they become, and in turn, they shape us. This issue is dedicated to celebrating the kids and pets who fill our homes with joy and love.
I hope this month’s issue inspires you to pour a little extra love into the children and pets in your life. They are the ones who remind us of the simple joys and the importance of unconditional love.
Here’s to our future, our little ones and the pets who make everything better!
ALI KRAMER, PUBLISHER
August 2026
PUBLISHER
Ali Kramer | ali.kramer@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Lynne Konstantin | lynne.konstantin@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Lisa Gindi | lisa.gindi@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Katie Currid, Beth Del Ville, Kristen Hafner, Kali Kasprzyk, Cheryl Parton, Susan Thwing
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Shelby Dubin, Janie Jones, Qiana Kelsch, Katie Currid, Olivia Seyfarth, Bethany Reis / Wild Fable Photography
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
Proverbs 3:5-6
Left to Right: Robert F Alati, Elizabeth M Silver, Suzanne Minster, R Adam Biswanger, Robyn R Crewdson, Jason M Geisz and Connor E Kruse (not pictured)
Delivering an elevated real estate experience rooted in trust, relationships and deep local knowledge of Birmingham and Bloomfield Hills. With over 25 years of experience, Erin Keating DeWald is known for handson guidance, thoughtful service and a genuine commitment to helping clients feel at home every step of the way.
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ERIN KEATING DEWALD
city scene
1: Armina Interiors hosted ‘Renovate or Relocate’ at Scavolini Detroit Showroom at the Michigan Design Center, June 18. Armina Kasprowicz, owner of Armina Interiors, and Ali Kramer, Birmingham City Lifestyle publisher and event moderator. 2: Ivana Stojkovic-Ristovski. 3: Event panelists Ali Kramer, Armina Kasprowicz, Petrucci Homes Owner Mike Petrucci, DG Realty Group Owner Dan Gutfreund, Famiglia Wealth Founder Jason Geisz and Scavolini Owner Niki Serras. 4: Ali Kramer, Amy Vucaj, Adrian Bazaj, Candice Rich and Mike Petrucci. 5: Tim Smith and Laurie Trinch. 6: Jeffrey Lance Abood, Dan Gutfreund, Mike Petrucci and Tony Nestro. 7: Mary Grace Dickson. Photography by Shelby Dubin
1: Lincoln of Troy hosted Puppy Yoga for a Purpose with Pawsitive Stretch and Petals 4 Paws June 7. Catie Carnaghi snuggles up. 2-3: So much puppy love. 4: Paulina Faranso, Brea Goldman and Miranda Osborne. 5: The littlest guests practice Downward Dog. 6: Chesare Hill and friends. 7: Love at first stretch.
benefit
by EV Media
1: Feldman Automotive Children’s Celebrity Invitational, on June 8 at the Wyndgate Country Club raised $1.3 million and counting to
the Children’s Miracle Network at Corewell Health Foundation and the Mark Wahlberg Children’s Foundation, with the help of Kevin James, Anthony Anderson, Maurice Allen, and Santonio Homes Jr. 2: Eric Ebron. 3: Nino Cutraro, Ken Noonan and Ryan Daly. 4: Kevin James and James Wahlberg. 5: The Majewski family (including Max, seated) received the Alma Wahlberg Award. 6: Bruce Bowen. 7: Members of the Celani family. Photography
CHRIS PERO ASSOCIATE
#1 Individual Agent At Max Broock/Real Estate One (over 2,100 agents statewide)
Over 26 Years as a Full Time Agent In Birmingham #2 Agent For market area homes sold over the last 3 years
Over $70 Million Personally sold in 2025
A Top 10 Agent (Including teams) in Oakland County each of the last 15 years
Over $900 Million in personal career sales (not team sales)
Photo: Shelby Dublin Interiors: Greene & co
ARTICLE BY SUSAN THWING
BEYOND the DIAGNOSIS
Two Birmingham moms share the power of inclusion, awareness and seeing the whole child.
When Misty Petruzzello first reached out about sharing her daughter’s story, her goal was simple: help people see beyond a diagnosis.
Her daughter Frankie, now five, was born with achondroplasia, the most common form of dwarfism. While the condition presents unique medical challenges, Petruzzello, of Birmingham, hopes others will understand that dwarfism is only one small part of who her daughter is.
“Frankie is five years old and has a personality that lights up every room she walks into,” Petruzzello says. “She’s funny, outgoing, determined and has a way of making people smile. She loves singing, dancing, playing soccer and trying new things.”
For Petruzzello, the journey began shortly after Frankie’s birth, when she was admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit due to low blood sugar and difficulty maintaining oxygen levels.
“We were scared, nervous, but more so worried that we didn’t know exactly what achondroplasia would mean for her future,” she says.
Like many parents facing an unexpected diagnosis, the family — including husband, Frank, and daughters Leah and Arianna — immersed themselves in research, connected with specialists and sought guidance from other families who had walked a similar path. Over time, fear gave way to confidence.
“The more we learned, the more confident we became in advocating for Frankie and making informed decisions about her care,” Petruzzello says.
Frankie has undergone spinal decompression surgery, sleep studies, annual MRIs and regular visits to specialists. Yet her mother says one of the biggest misconceptions is that people assume dwarfism affects only height.
“There can be many other health concerns that require ongoing monitoring and specialized care,” she explains.
Still, Petruzzello is quick to focus on what her daughter can do rather than what she cannot.
“We always encourage her to be independent, try new things and believe in herself,” she says. “We want Frankie to grow up knowing that she is capable, loved and worthy of every opportunity.”
The experience has also shaped Frankie’s sisters, teaching them empathy, compassion and how to advocate for others.
“As they’ve grown, they’ve learned the importance of standing up for others,” Petruzzello says. “They have been some of Frankie’s biggest supporters and cheerleaders.”
For Kristy Korth of Birmingham, the path to parenthood with husband, Hunter, looked very different but carried many of the same lessons.
Their son Chase was born at just 23½ weeks of gestation, weighing less than one pound. The family also endured the heartbreaking loss of his twin brother, Luke.
“Chase was in the neonatal unit for seven of the longest months of our lives,” Korth says. “There were many times we thought he wasn’t going to make it. He really is our miracle.”
“We want Frankie to grow up knowing that she is capable, loved and worthy of every opportunity.”
— Misty Petruzzello
Frankie Petruzzello.
PHOTO BY OLIVIA SEYFARTH
Now nearly 20 years old, Chase lives with cognitive delays and autism and is nonverbal. Yet his mother describes him first and foremost as a joyful young man who teaches those around him what truly matters.
“He’s super happy,” Korth says. “He teaches us every day what it’s like to live in the present moment.”
Chase attends Wing Lake Developmental Center, participates in Special Olympics and enjoys spending time with family, his iPad and his beloved Sesame Street videos.
Korth says the journey has not always been easy. After bringing Chase home on oxygen and feeding tubes, she left her career to care for him full-time. Navigating services, therapies and support systems often required persistence and determination.
“You really have to be dedicated,” she says. “Ask questions and network because there are a lot of things out there that you might not know about.”
One of the greatest gifts, she says, has been watching Chase’s impact on his siblings, Sydney and Finn.
“They have a level of empathy that I think is rare,” Korth says. “They stand up for him if people give him weird looks or say weird things. My daughter even wrote her college essay about what she’s learned from him.”
Both families emphasize that inclusion is about far more than access. It is about belonging.
For Korth, that can mean adaptive playground equipment and community spaces where children of all abilities can participate together.
“I like when they expand playgrounds to accommodate children with different abilities,” she says. “So they can be part of what’s considered normal.”
For Petruzzello, representation matters just as much.
“When children with dwarfism see people who look like them represented in books, movies, television, schools and their communities, it helps them realize they are not alone,” she says.
Both mothers also stress the importance of language, education and understanding. Petruzzello notes that outdated terms can be hurtful and that respectful language helps foster acceptance. More importantly, she hopes people will focus on the individual rather than the diagnosis.
“Chase is super happy. He teaches us every day what it’s like to live in the present moment.”
— Kristy Korth
Frankie on her first birthday. PHOTO BY WILD FABLE PHOTOGRAPHY
“At the end of the day, children with dwarfism are children first,” she says. “They have the same hopes, dreams, talents and abilities as anyone else.”
Korth agrees. Over nearly two decades of raising Chase, she has learned that every person has value and something to teach others.
“Chase is just unconditional, pure love,” she says. “He’s going to love you. He’s not going to judge you or hold grudges. He’s just pure.”
As communities continue working toward greater inclusion, both families believe awareness begins with conversation and understanding. Whether through adaptive playgrounds, supportive schools, representation in media or simple acts of kindness, every effort helps create a world where children of all abilities feel welcomed and valued.
Ultimately, that is the message both mothers hope readers remember.
“I wish people understood that children with dwarfism are just like any other child,” Petruzzello says. “Dwarfism does not define who they are or what they are capable of achieving.”
Korth offers a similar perspective.
“Love fully without judgment,” she says. “You never really know what someone else is going through.”
Their journeys may be different, but together they share a common truth: Every child deserves kindness, respect, inclusion and the opportunity to thrive.
The Petruzzello Family: Misty, Frankie, Frank, Leah and Arianna.
PHOTO BY OLIVIA SEYFARTH
The Korth Family: Hunter, Chase, Sydney, Kristy, Finn and dogs Samie and Stogie.
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When Charlotte Russell looked around her high school, she saw something many students were experiencing, but few were openly discussing: stress, anxiety and the pressure to be perfect.
Rather than accept it as part of student life, the Birmingham student decided to do something about it.
The result was a student-led wellness initiative that earned Russell, an Ambassador with Girl Scout Troop 71576, the prestigious Girl Scout Gold Award — the highest achievement in Girl Scouting. Her project not only helped spark important conversations about mental health but also created resources that continue to support students today.
“Teen mental health is something that has really impacted my peers and my close friends,” says Russell, a recent graduate of Cranbrook Schools who will study psychology at the University of Michigan this fall. “I wanted to create an environment where people would feel more supported.”
Russell's inspiration came from personal experience. Like many high-achieving students, she felt the weight of demanding coursework, long nights studying and the pressure to excel. She also struggled with anxiety, ADHD and sleep deprivation while adapting to an academically rigorous environment.
Working closely with counselors, teachers and school leaders, Russell helped develop wellness workshops that addressed topics students identified as important. Sessions, led by school counselors, covered stress and time management, sleep, body image, self-confidence, healthy relationships, emotional wellness and supporting peers through difficult times. The workshops were eventually approved to count toward students’ activity-credit requirements, encouraging participation and helping normalize conversations about mental health.
Most importantly, the initiative continues today, even after Russell’s graduation.
Over time, surveys showed decreases in reported anxiety, depression and rule-breaking behaviors among participating students.
But for Russell, some of the most meaningful feedback came directly from classmates. Students who participated in the workshops later approached her to share how much the program had helped them.
“Knowing that people were willing to tell me they had been impacted by it was really special,” she says.
“There were nights when my friends and I would spend three hours trying to solve one problem for a class,” she says. “I noticed our mental health was declining, and a lot of people were really suffering.”
As a sophomore, Russell sought special permission from school administrators to launch a Wellness Club. More than 100 students signed up, confirming what she already suspected: There was a strong need for mental health support on campus.
“That was the first time I realized I could make a difference right now,” she says. “You don't have to be an adult or hold a certain position to create change.”
Russell credits Girl Scouts with helping develop the skills that made the project possible.
“Girl Scouts taught me leadership, self-expression and how to work with people,” she says. “Those skills definitely helped me bring this project to life.”
Russell hopes other young people remember one important message: There is no single definition of success, and no one should feel alone in their struggles.
“There's nothing wrong with you,” she says. “Everyone learns differently. Everyone grows differently. The important thing is to keep going and know that you're supported.”
“That was the first time I realized I could make a difference right now. You don't have to be an adult or hold a certain position to create change.”
— Charlotte Russell
Russell (right) with Monica Woodson, CEO of Girl Scouts of Southeastern Michigan
Charlotte Russell (right) and a fellow student display signs at Cranbrook Schools.
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Birthday in a Box
Looking for a fun, easy and creative way to help those in need celebrate their special day? Put together a Birthday in a Box! The main element is a birthday cake, and the best part is that no perishable items are needed; all you need is one can of lemon-lime soda to take the place of the oil, water and eggs.
And what is a birthday celebration without decorations? Get the kids to help decide what fun party decorations to include – think candles, banners, confetti, ribbon and more. These are great to make in batches when items are on sale at the grocery store. Stock up and make someone’s day!
ARTICLE BY BETH DEL VILLE
PHOTOGRAPHY
QIANA KELSCH
PREP:
Collect all materials. Makes one Birthday in a Box.
• 1 Box of cake mix
• 1 Container of frosting
• 1 Can of lemon-lime soda
• 1 Disposable 9x13 aluminum baking pan with lid
• Cardstock or heavy paper, for baking directions and note (printed or handwritten)
• Party decorations of choice, including candles
STEP ONE:
Gather cake mix, container of frosting, can of lemon-lime soda, aluminum baking pan with lid and party decorations. Carefully place each item in the bottom of the baking pan, ensuring everything fits snugly.
STEP TWO:
Print or handwrite the instructions on cardstock, letting the recipient know to replace the oil, eggs and water with the can of lemon-lime soda, following the directions on the back of the cake mix box. You can also include a birthday wish.
STEP THREE:
Once all the items are in the pan, secure the lid and tie the package with a ribbon for an added festive touch. Deliver to your favorite food pantry.
1
THE ELEMENTS
Collect your essentials and special decorations
2
PUTTING IT TOGETHER
Place each element in the baking pan, including directions, and cover with the lid
3
TIME TO DELIVER
Collect your birthday cake boxes together and drop it at your favorite food pantry
ADDITIONAL ITEMS TO CONSIDER:
Include candles; balloons; a birthday banner; noisemakers; a blank card for friends and family to sign; a small, gender-neutral gift or a gift card; birthday-themed paper plates and napkins. You don’t have to make each box the same – choose a different cake mix and frosting flavor for each box!
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TREY & KATIE KENNEDY
ON MARRIAGE, KIDS, AND THE COMEDY OF REAL LIFE
Trey Kennedy makes a living finding comedy in regular life. Marriage. Toddlers. Yoga pants. The Thursday-night scramble between school dropoffs, soccer practice, and whatever has to be done by morning. Twelve years in, it shows: millions of followers across every platform, three stand-up specials, a sold-out Relatable Tour, and a style of humor fans send each other captioned, “Are you watching me?” He delivers the kind of comedy that travels because everyone’s living some version of it.
Katie, his wife of six years, is a former biomedical engineer who also built a modeling career. She’s now raising their kids and co-hosting Correct Opinions alongside Trey — the show where the two of them swap takes on marriage, parenting, and whatever came up that week.
Trey has been at this longer than people realize. An Edmond, Oklahoma kid who grew up playing basketball described himself as a “shy kid who never thought he’d be an entertainer.” He started making videos while attending Oklahoma State University. After building millions of followers on Vine before the platform shut down, he gave himself six months on Instagram and Facebook to see whether he could rebuild from zero. He did. Stand-up soon followed. His first special, Are You For Real?, streams on YouTube; the second, Grow Up, on Amazon Prime; the third, built around the Relatable Tour, wrapped earlier this year. “I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now,” he says. A slow climb, made one bit at a time.
ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
“I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now.”
Most of what Trey writes lately starts in his own kitchen. Thomas is three and a half, and he is, in his father’s words, “a movie.” He narrates his own life from the moment his eyes open and mispronounces words in ways his parents now repeat to each other because no one else would believe them. His younger sister, Eva, is what Katie calls “the calm one.” With a third now in the mix, the Kennedys are officially outnumbered.
After six years of marriage, Trey and Katie have learned that the partnership runs best when it gets its own time on the calendar. So once a week, they leave the kids with a sitter and go out for coffee. “You need a system,” Katie says. “It’s about taking time to look each other in the eye. Not the kids. Not the cameras. Just each other.”
The same instinct shapes the work. Most of Trey’s trial and error happens onstage or on Instagram, but the first read is always Katie’s. “There’s only been one time ever I’ve had to be like, ‘you’re not doing that,’” she says. The rest of the time, she just laughs first.
FEATURING TREY & KATIE KENNEDY
Trey and Katie talk about marriage, parenting, and the moments that don’t make the Instagram feed.
Watch or listen to the full conversation wherever you get your podcasts.
HAIR & MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE
GOOD COFFEE, COOL CARS, GREAT GUYS
In the late-1950s and into the ’60s, the iconic Woodward Avenue was the hot spot for car enthusiasts. Speedsters taking their new hot rods for a run and spectators taking in the street racing even attracted the attention of engineers and executives from the Big Three.
Today, street racing is no longer allowed — but the love for everything auto and the community around them still runs strong.
Ted Edginton, a Birmingham-based mortgage lender and producing branch manager with Rate, is among them. After moving into his new office on Woodward last August, his neighbor proved to be a major attraction: Pasteiner’s, offering collectibles, hobbies, magazines and more for the auto enthusiast for more than 30 years, has been host to Parking at Pasteiner’s every Saturday morning for many of those years.
“Everyone sees the cars and crowds on Saturdays,” Edginton says. “I used to stop by randomly, but now since being here on Saturdays, I’ve been spending time and meeting amazing people.”
Ted Edginton builds community by showing up.
ARTICLE BY LYNNE KONSTANTIN
Ted Edginton flips pancakes and burgers for a Great Guys gathering.
The weekly event runs from 8 to 10 a.m., though the lot starts filling by 7:30. Several hundred people turn out on any given Saturday, year-round, drawn by classic cars, the energy and the easy camaraderie of it all. People drive from quite a distance to be there, Edginton says, and the credit belongs to Steve Pasteiner and his family, who built the gathering organically into what it is today.
When Edginton opened his office, joining in the fun with Cars & Coffee was a natural. Not a sponsor — he just shows up, puts out coffee and enjoys the company. “I’m just thankful to be accepted,” he says. “It’s something people are excited to be a part of.”
For Edginton, whose work in mortgages runs on relationships, his reputation and visibility, the value is obvious. But he’s quick to say the draw is part of how he operates his business. “The more you surround yourself with really great people, the easier everything becomes.”
That same instinct is also behind Great Guys, a monthly gathering Edginton hosts at his Woodward office on the third Thursday of each month. The event
brings together 50 to 60 professionals from across industries: financial services, legal, home improvement, tech, jewelry and more. The concept came from his wife, Dr. Vilma Edginton, who noticed that while women have no shortage of events built around connection and community, men have fewer spaces to simply get together, and grew from a few friends meeting for coffee. When Edginton opened his office, it found a proper home.
The rules are simple: one person per profession per meetup, no membership fees, no complicated requirements. “I’ve been in other networking groups and didn’t want any part of the crazy demands,” he says. Sometimes members are looking for a service for their home or advice about a child starting college. Sometimes it’s just professionals who haven’t seen each other in a while, reconnecting over coffee. Even when Edginton can’t be there, someone else steps up to run it. “It’s all very organic,” he says.
The group occasionally rallies around local charities or neighbors in need, but the core of it is straightforward. “Getting business is part of it, but it’s really about camaraderie and connecting,” Edginton says.
Both Cars & Coffee and Great Guys, he says, reflect the same philosophy: Surround yourself with great people, and good things follow.
To get on the Great Guys email list, email Ted Edginton at TedE@rate.com
Parking at Pasteiner's: a meeting place for car enthusiasts.
Cars & Coffee at Rate
Where Families Feel Seen
ARTICLE BY SUSAN THWING
Dr. Danielle Alperin brings a personal touch to modern eye care — for kids and their parents.
Dr. Danielle Alperin
When Dr. Danielle Alperin and her husband, Mark, opened New View Eye Care in Berkley in November 2025, it wasn’t a spur-of-the-moment decision. In many ways, the family-owned practice had been years in the making.
“I feel like this was always the plan,” says Dr. Alperin, who grew up in Farmington Hills and completed her optometry degree at Ohio State University before pursuing a residency in cornea and contact lenses. “I grew up going to my parents’ furniture business, and I wanted the same experience for my kids,” she says of children Sam, 10, and Aviva, 5.
While Dr. Alperin focuses on patient care, Mark oversees the business operations, technology and administration. Together, the Franklin couple has created a practice centered on personalized care, efficiency and a welcoming atmosphere.
“We knew our strengths were very different,” she says. “I love seeing patients and making sure the clinic runs smoothly. Mark handles all the behindthe-scenes aspects. Together, we felt we could create something special.”
That “something special” starts the moment patients walk through the door. Visitors are greeted with a coffee and hot chocolate bar, while children can explore a dedicated kids’ room replete with beanbag chairs, coloring activities, even a Nintendo Switch. Thanks to Mark’s 3D-printing business, the office is also stocked with colorful toys and fidget items designed to help children feel comfortable.
“The last thing we want is for a child to have a bad experience and not want to come back,” Dr. Alperin says. “We make the exam feel more like a game than a test.” Children are shown how the equipment works and encouraged to ask questions, while parents are kept informed every step of the way.
“We want patients to feel welcome, relaxed and seen,” Dr. Alperin says.
The family-friendly approach reflects Dr. Alperin’s belief that eye care should be both comfortable and proactive. One area she is particularly passionate about is myopia management, a growing specialty focused on slowing the progression of nearsightedness in children. Myopia has increased dramatically over the past three decades, affecting nearly 42 percent of Americans. While genetics play a major role, Dr. Alperin says early intervention can make a significant difference. Special contact lenses, glasses and eye drops can help slow changes in the eye and reduce the severity of nearsightedness over time.
“We now have ways to help kids avoid ending up with the same prescription their parents have,” she says. “That’s really exciting.”
Parents should watch for signs such as squinting, sitting close to screens, rubbing their eyes or closing one eye to focus. Even children who do not complain may be struggling to see clearly.
Dr. Alperin also encourages families to follow the “20-20-20 rule”: Every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds. And don’t forget to blink.
“When people focus on screens, they blink less, which can cause eye strain and dryness,” she says. “Sometimes I joke that I’m prescribing blinking.”
Beyond routine eye exams, New View Eye Care offers dry-eye treatment, specialty contact-lens fittings, urgent eye care and an in-house lab that can produce many glasses quickly. The practice also reserves same-day appointments for eye emergencies, helping patients avoid unnecessary trips to urgent care or the emergency room.
For Dr. Alperin, the most rewarding part of the profession remains the relationships she builds with patients and families. “These patients become like family,” she says. “Seeing them year after year and having them follow me throughout my career is incredibly meaningful.
“We want to be the place where people feel comfortable, cared for, and excited to come back.”
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TAKE A PAGE FROM CHILDREN’S LITERATURE FOR CLASSIC BIRTHDAY PARTY THEMES
let the WILD RUMPUS begin
ARTICLE BY CHERYL PARTON PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Whether seeking philosophical guidance or deciding what’s for dinner, recipes for life can be found in literature. We learn from great minds that came before us, and that’s true when planning a birthday party. Take a page from classical children’s books to find themes that combine playfulness, colorful illustration and words to inspire food, décor and games that will tickle the fancy of youthful guests, with a central activity of reading aloud. Published in 1963, “Where the Wild Things Are” is one of the most recognizable children’s picture books of all time. Writer and illustrator Maurice Sendak created a universal story about mastering fears. Dressed in his wolf costume, and sent to his room for creating havoc at home, young Max travels to an island of Wild Things where he becomes king. It’s a story about childhood resilience and mastery of fears, but simply observed, the fantastical book provides a colorful segue to an afternoon birthday romp in the park. When it comes to wild things, enjoy inspiration from our own party, plus we’ve compiled some ideas for ways to help the rumpus begin based on other beloved titles:
“Regardless of the theme, be sure to leave time to read a favorite passage from the central book of choice.”
“WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE” BY MAURICE SENDAK
As a costume party, have guests dress as their favorite wild thing. A crown-making activity allows everyone to be King (or Queen) for a day.
GAME: Wild Rumpus Dance Party. A twist on the Freeze Dance, guests dance and prance freely until the music stops. An extra step means that player is out. A winner is the last “beast” to stand still after multiple rounds of play.
“CURIOUS GEORGE” BY MARGRET AND H. A. REY
Gather a barrel of monkeys, plus your favorite Man in the Yellow Hat, for a party where guests can go bananas. George always seems to wander, so try a scavenger hunt that meanders from clue to clue. Banana cupcakes, banana bread, and a tower of bananas add a healthy touch to the dessert table.
GAME: Monkey in the Middle. Create a circle with one guest in the middle. Toss a ball, or soft monkey toy, across the circle without the monkey in the middle catching it.
“DON’T LET THE PIGEON DRIVE THE BUS!” BY MO WILLEMS
Though an unlikely party host, pigeon—with his wide-eyed enthusiasm—sets a party tone. Eat “bird seed” trail mix and hot dogs (inspired by another Willems title, “The Pigeon Finds a Hot Dog!”). Printable images of Pigeon lend themselves to thematic and whimsical decorations.
GAME: Red Light, Green Light. With guests as “bus drivers,” they make their way to the station/finish line with a twist on this classic party game.
Regardless of the theme, be sure to leave time to read a favorite passage from the central book of choice. Give books as party favors or add a layer of philanthropy by having guests bring their favorite book to donate to a local nonprofit.
Costumes by Sarah Lodge and styled by Sarah Lodge, Janie Jones and Angela Broockerd.
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LOCAL LUCKY DOGS ARE LIVING THEIR BEST LIVES.
ARTICLE BY SUSAN THWING
S POILED(BEAUTIFULLY)TO THE BONE
If you’ve ever spent more time choosing a shampoo for your dog than for yourself — this is for you.
Across Birmingham and Bloomfield Township, pet owners are embracing a growing trend that goes far beyond basic grooming. Blueberry facials, detox mud baths, spa-quality shampoos, paw-conditioning treatments and personalized wellness care: All are on menus nearby, designed to keep beloved pets healthy, comfortable — and beautiful.
“We see people who really want to invest in their dog’s health and well-being,“ says Adam Neff, owner of Scenthound Birmingham (scenthound. com/birmingham). “A lot of what we do focuses on routine care and keeping dogs healthy.“
One of the biggest seasonal requests at Scenthound is de-shedding treatments. As dogs shed their winter and summer coats, owners are
looking for ways to reduce the tumbleweeds of fur rolling across living room floors.
“Special shampoos and extra brush-outs help get rid of the shedding, or at least cut down on it,“ Neff says.
Scenthound takes a wellness-first approach to grooming, focusing on services such as ear cleaning, nail trimming, teeth brushing and skin and coat assessments. The goal is preventive care rather than simply making a dog look good for a few days.
One of the more delicious offerings is a blueberry facial.
“It’s a special blueberry-scented shampoo that helps with food particles stuck in the beard or tear stains around the eyes,“ Neff explains. “It gives them a healthier look and a healthier coat.“
While most dogs might not leave smelling like a blueberry muffin, they do leave with cleaner faces and happier owners.
SCENTHOUND
Zoomin Groomin
Scenthound
Zoomin Groomin
For some pets, however, the greatest luxury isn’t a facial, it’s avoiding the grooming salon altogether.
That’s where Zoomin Groomin (zoomingroomin.com) comes in.
The mobile grooming company brings a fully equipped grooming spa directly to a client’s driveway, eliminating car rides, crowded waiting rooms and the stress of unfamiliar surroundings.
“Many of our clients come to us because their dogs are anxious, reactive, senior or have medical conditions that make salon environments overwhelming,“ says owner Maria Aguirre.
Inside the custom-designed grooming van are professional grooming stations, climate control, a built-in bathtub and everything needed to create a one-on-one glow-up.
“Our services are designed to feel like a full spa experience,“ Aguirre says.
Premium shampoos and conditioners tailored to specific coat types, blueberry facials, teeth cleaning, ear cleaning, paw and nose balm treatments, nail buffing and finishing touches such as seasonal bandanas and pet-safe cologne are all options.
For especially pampered pups, Zoomin Groomin even offers a detoxifying activated charcoal mud treatment.
“The purifying mud treatment helps clean the skin and leaves the coat softer,“ Aguirre says.
But the biggest luxury isn’t necessarily the products.
“What clients value most is the attention to detail and the personalized care each pet receives,“ she says.
“It’s not just about looking good,“ Neff says. “It’s about helping dogs stay healthy.“
While wellness grooming and mobile spas are gaining popularity, several other Birmingham-area businesses are also helping local pets live their best lives.
MORE WAYS TO SPOIL YOUR PET
DOGTOPIA BIRMINGHAM
Known for daycare and boarding, Dogtopia also offers spa services, including Furminator de-shedding treatments and self-serve bathing stations, with elevated tubs to save owners from bending over a bathtub while helping dogs shed excess fur. Dogtopia.com/birmingham.
TEACUPS & TOYS
This longtime Downtown Birmingham boutique combines upscale pet products with professional grooming services. The focus is on personalized care and luxury products for pets whose owners believe they deserve a little extra spoiling.
ZOOMIN GROOMIN
CANINE COUTURE GROOMING
Canine Couture offers premium grooming, natural products and stress-reducing one-on-one appointments designed for nervous pets. Choose from the Posh Clip, the Sports Clip, the Around Town Clip and more. Beverlyhillsgrooming.com.
Canine Couture
Teacups & Toys
ARTICLE BY KRISTEN HAFNER PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Beating the Dog Days of Summer with a Canine Treat
PUP -SICLE
As we all try to stay cool during the scorching dog days of summer, our furry friends need a break from the heat too. Pamper your pup with a refreshing “pup-sicle.” These dog-friendly frozen treats are sure to make your canine companion’s tail wag!
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 cup of plain, unsweetened yogurt (or dogsafe yogurt alternative)
• 1/2 cup of unsweetened, plain applesauce
• 1/4 cup of water or low-sodium chicken broth
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Mix the yogurt, applesauce, and water or chicken broth in a bowl until well combined.
2. Pour the mixture into ice cube trays or silicone molds.
3. Freeze for several hours or until solid.
4. Serve the frozen treats to your dog to help them cool off!
Senior
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At O44, we take a refined approach to movement. Our training blends progressive and classical Pilates with functional strength work to build endurance, resilience, and lasting strength.
Using the V2 Max Reformer, O44 Plyobox, and Resistance Wall, each session incorporates heavier resistance to support both muscle and bone health.
Our Signature Strength x Cardio format integrates dynamic cardio intervals to elevate heart rate and stamina, while our Reformer Strength format focuses on full-body strength without cardio.
The result is a seamless balance of intensity and restoration-delivered through focused, intentional training.
Treat your dog to the best of everything.
ARTICLE BY LYNNE KONSTANTIN
Puppy
Super durable, super strong, super glam — Susan Alexandra’s Merry Dog Collar lets your pup shine. Susanalexandra.com
Whether you’re smitten with a kitten, or savor coffee with a pup, sip from Molly Hatch Stoneware Dog Mug, in Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Dachsund, Rescue Dog, Golden Doodle and more. Anthropologie.com
Game-day ready in Lions and Tigers Jerseys. Teacups & Toys, Birmingham.
Made for everyday adventures, Hound’s waterproof Jellies Leash is gentle on your pup and your hands. Houndcollection.com
We can’t get enough of Susan Alexandra: Their Custom Devotion Locket will keep your pup close to your heart. Susanalexandra.com
One hundred-percent non-skid rubber, Wagwear’s WagWellies are perfect for comfy puddle-jumping and cuteness, in a rainbow of delicious colors. Wagwear.com
(Left) Your sweetie deserves the sweetest: Foggy Dog’s Berry Sweet Dog Collar, designed by artist Jen B. Peters. Add extra charm with a Strawberry Charm. Thefoggydog.com
Serve up delish, wholesome fun: Pup Cup is made with milk and cream, infused with pup-approved flavors like Bacon, Peanut Butter and Cookie Dough Bites — with no added sugar. Premier Pet Supplies, Beverly Hills; premierpetsupplies.com
Pay homage to your honey with a bronze Custom Pet Portrait Necklace, from Susan Alexandra. It’s like wearing love around your neck. Susanalexandra.com
Wagwear’s extra-snuggly Monkey Fleece Jacket has your pup’s back. Wagwear.com.
Keep your pup looking crisp with Smallboy’s Blue Candy Stripe Dog Shirt — breathable, comfy and appropriate for everything from park playdates to cafe patios (check out their mom-and-me sets, too). Shopsmallboy.com
in August Around Town
5th, 12th, 19th & 26th 5th
The ultimate outdoor party band: Multi Grammy-winning Train brings its most chart-topping hits to Pine Knob with its Drops of Jupiter: 25 Years in the Atmosphere Tour. Opening acts Barenaked Ladies and Matt Nathanson. 313presents.com.
Four concerts left before the end of summer: Sit among the trees, pack a picnic or frolic to the music at Birmingham In the Park Concert, a free series in Shain Park (corner of Merrill and Bates). Bring the whole family for a diverse range of genres, including Atomic Annie’s (shown) favorite “vintage” hits, from ’70s classic rock and ’80s MTV hits to ’90s/Aughts alternative anthems and today’s radio pop and rock. For full lineup and details, visit bhamgov.org
9th
Take your pick of two special events at the Birmingham Farmer’s Market: the Annual Corn Festival, a fun-filled
day featuring local corn, seasonal produce, baked goods, live music, a petting zoo, food trucks and more. Or check out the Second Sunday Fitness Class with Gazelle Sports, who will lead a 10-minute dynamic warm up followed by a three-mile run or two-mile fitness walk around scenic Birmingham. For details and to register for the Fitness Class, visit downtownbirmingham.com.
2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd & 30th
Weekly Live Music from local musicians from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. at the Birmingham Farmers Market. This month’s lineup includes Billy Brandt, Dennis Farac, John Patrick Peters, Route 66 Unplugged and Devyn Mitchell. Downtownbirmingham.com.
7th
The Outdoor Movie Nights presents The Bag Guys, the animated comedy
Train. Photo by Skylar Watkins
Corn Festival
Atomic Annie
ARTICLE BY LYNNE KONSTANTIN
Outdoor Movie Night
starring Sam Rockwell as Mr. Wolf, at Booth Park, free and family friendly at 7:30 p.m. Show up early for a pre-show concert by local Birmingham band Four Stories. Downtownbirmingham.com.
15th
The Woodward Dream Cruise — the always-anticipated Motor City highlight — rolls into town, celebrating all things automotive and showing off thousands of classic cars of all makes and models. Set up early along the Boulevard, or check out Birmingham’s own Cruise Event along South Old Woodward Avenue in Downtown Birmingham, with a space for exotic cars, exhibits, food vendors and more.
16th
Drop a line at Family-Friendly Fishing Event at Bloomfield Hills Schools’ Johnson Nature Center, whose mission is to promote conservation and
stewardship through meaningful experiences in nature. Find out what lies below the surface of the Center’s pond and enjoy activities that highlight the fishing experience. Bring your own equipment or borrow from the Nature Center; bait will be provided. Pre-registration required. Johnsonnaturecenter.org.
29th
16th & 23rd
Tour the peaceful, winding paths of Cranbrook Japanese Garden, at the Cranbrook House & Gardens in Bloomfield Hills, among the oldest Japanese-style gardens in North America. Created in 1915 as part of George and Ellen Booth’s country estate, this one-acre, pond-style strolling garden features an iconic vermillion bridge, a historic Kasuga Lantern and the recently rehabilitated Lily Pond Cascade. Details and tickets: center.cranbrook.edu/ visit/japanese-garden.
It’s true love: Cary Elwes (Westley) comes to Detroit for The Princess Bride: An Inconceivable Evening with Cary Elwes at Detroit’s Fisher Theatre for a special screening of the iconic film followed by a postshow conversation about the making of the beloved film and adventurous tales of ROUSes, giants, revenge and, of course, true love. VIP packages include a meet-andgreet with Elwes and a signed copy of his New York Times best-selling book, As You Wish . Atgtickets.com/ detroit.
Cranbrook Japanese Bridge, July 16, 2019. Photo by Eric Franchy
The Princess Bride
Expect nothing less than exceptional... We don’t just deliver an elevated experience, we set the standard for it.
BIRMINGHAM LEADERSHIP
Kenneth Guerriero
Kenneth
Summertime is busy time, and that often means eating on the go. Whether you’re at constant baseball games or meeting up for a regular play date, you’re probably bringing food along with you to feed your crew. And there’s no meal that’s as on-the-go friendly as the peanut butter and jelly sandwich.
And don’t get me wrong — I love a PB&J. But months of eating anything can get a little old, and this summer, I started to wonder if there was a way to zhuzh up the ol’ standby.
I was actually inspired by a sandwich at one of my favorite places to eat. All the restaurant’s sandwiches feature cheese. So color me surprised when I found that they had a peanut butter and jelly sandwich on the menu — with the addition of sheep’s cheese. And cue more surprise when I discovered that it was absolutely delicious.
IT’S PEANUT BUTTER JELLY TIME
CHANGE UP YOUR PB&J GAME BY DISCOVERING NEW WAYS TO ENJOY THE OL’ STANDBY
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATIE CURRID
All summer, I was craving this sandwich, a fresh PB&J sandwich on sourdough. I decided to try my own at home with what I had on hand, which was goat cheese. And it opened up a whole new world for me.
The PB&J with goat cheese started being my standard poolside sandwich this summer, and then I started talking to other people about it, spreading the gospel of the PB&J with cheese, and they would share their PB&J innovations with me. You could toast them! Put chips on them! Add bacon! The possibilities were endless.
The PB&J is so nostalgic and, yeah, sometimes, you just want a really basic one on white bread with grape jelly and creamy Jif like you had when you were a kid. But it’s also fun to be playful about it, which is nostalgic in its own way, too — being innovative and doing something a little weird or against the rules, just like when you were a kid.
HERE ARE SOME IDEAS TO CHANGE UP YOUR PEANUT BUTTER AND JELLY SANDWICH:
Change up your bread: One easy way to liven up your sandwich is to use different bread. That sourdough you may have learned to make during the pandemic is a perfect bread to use, or you could opt for milk bread, a Japanese option that is fluffier and sweeter than white bread.
Get nutty: While most toddlers would balk at crunchy peanut butter, you’re an adult! You can try new things! If you don’t have the crunchy type on hand, you can also just add peanuts between your layers of peanut butter and jelly to get that crunchy fix.
Toast it: One of my favorite ways to make an “elevated” PB&J is to simply toast it. It’s really similar to grilled cheese — make your PB&J, and then spread some butter on the outside on both sides. Melt some butter in a pan and add your sandwich, flipping once browned. If you want to get really fancy, sprinkle some powdered sugar on before you cut into it. I promise it will be your new late-night craving.
New spreads: You probably already have a go-to jelly for your PB&J (mine is strawberry), but change it up a bit and try raspberry or apricot. Honey is a great addition, too! I’ve also heard ginger or lemon preserves are great, or you could try swapping the peanut butter out for something different nut butter, or even something worldly like tahini, which is a ground sesame seed paste with a similar flavor to peanut butter.
Fresh fruit: This is probably the simplest way to up your PB&J game, since technically, you’ve already got fruit on your sandwich in the form of jelly. Try adding some smashed raspberries or cut strawberries to yours next time you make one! CONTINUED >
Add some spice: Putting some spice on your PB&J can add some interest. Sambal, an Indonesian chili paste, is a good option because it lends itself to sweetness, or Sriracha is an easy one since it’s a common fridge staple. I’m also a big fan of gochujang, a mildly spicy Korean paste with a hint of sweetness. It’s best to mix your spice in with your peanut butter before spreading it — it’ll remind you of satay!
Chip in: Probably the wackier idea you’ll see here, and one a toddler would either love or abhor, but chips on sandwiches are a great way to add crunchiness and saltiness to any sandwich — especially the PB&J. Apparently, Channing Tatum loves to eat Cheetos on his PB&J, though I’ve had others tell me they love to add Doritos — both the Nacho and Cool Ranch variety — to theirs, too.
Say cheese: As I said earlier, you’ve gotta try cheese on your PB&J. I’m a fan of goat cheese, specifically the honey variety, but plain versions or those with dried fruit are great, too. The trick is to set it out for 15-20 minutes before making your sandwich to soften it a bit, so it’s easier to spread on delicate bread.
It’s bacon!: Bacon lends itself well to peanut butter because it’s also both sweet and salty. If you’re opposed to adding straight-up strips of bacon to your sandwich, a bacon jam, which you can buy or make at home, is a good stepping stone to getting out of your comfort zone.
