Chandler Lifestyle December 2014

Chandler december 2014

ChandlerLifestyle.com

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Christmas Traditions Around the Valley Decorate Your Tree with Southwest Ornaments Tamales Have a Christmas History

Editor’s Letter

The joy of Christmas.

I

t’s the most wonderful time of the year! The cool, crisp nights of winter are filled with joy as families huddle around the fire together with hot cocoa. Children dream of their Christmas wishes and family traditions repeat themselves. Lights are strung in the streets and carolers’ voices ring through the air.

This Christmas season tons and tons of events are offered around our beautiful state. From Chandler to Prescott, there are lighting ceremonies, parades, festivities and much more to explore with your family. Whether it’s a tradition that’s been a part of your family for years or you decide to start a new tradition this year, you can be sure to find something to help your family enjoy the holidays with Southwest flair.

Are you struggling with what to buy for your loved ones this year for Christmas?

Well you can find your answers in our gift guide. A great amount of unique gifts can be purchased online. It makes shopping convenient and easy. And the greatest thing is you, don’t even have to leave the comfort of your home. With all of the holiday crowds, that is how I prefer to shop anyways.

Read about Brenda Schodt and how she found her passion for painting beautiful ornaments. She and her husband started Southwest Ornaments. With a vast array of options, they’ve surely created a gorgeous desert painted ornament for each and every family. You can even leave your ornament out to display it all year round.

Indulge in a tamale this Christmas. This southwest food has a history to be discovered. Read about where tamales began, how they have been passed down through the generations, and most excitingly how to make them yourself to serve to your friends and family. They won’t be disappointed.

Never forget, especially during this time of year, to leave your calendar page open so you don’t miss out all of the fun family activities. Check out the Around Town section as well to stay informed and up to date with what’s happening around the city.

Christmas is a joyous time of year. Families gather all around the world to celebrate the birth of Christ. In my opinion, it truly is the most wonderful time of year. Remember to be there for one another, give to those in need, and rejoice in all the wonderful blessings in your life. Set goals for next year and set goals to keep those goals. Surround yourself with people who lift you higher, and strive to lift someone else higher, too.

december 2014 publisher Steven Schowengerdt sales director Eric Williams | EWilliams@LifestylePubs.com

editor

Moriah Schowengerdt | Moriah@LifestylePubs.com

contributing writers Meghann Finn Sepulveda, Erica Forst, Rachel Hawkinson, Seth Conaway, Kathleen Blair, Michelle Guerrero, Suzette Zara, Kory Kilmer, Anne Potter Russ

contributing photographers Joy Reynolds, DarcyPhoto.com, Food City Published monthly, subscriptions are available: 1 year for $22 or 2 years for $39. Details at ChandlerLifestyle.com

corporate team chief executive officer | Steven Schowengerdt chief sales officer | Matthew Perry chief financial officer | DeLand Shore production director | Christina Sandberg director of marketing | Brad Broockerd art director | Sara Minor ad coordinators | Cyndi Vreeland, Samantha Engel layout designer | Liesl Poet copy editor | Kendra Mathewson executive assistant | Lori Cunningham application architect | Michael O’Connell it director | Randy Aufderheide

Blessings and Happy New Year,

by Community ™

Moriah Schowengerdt, Editor

| ChandlerLifestyle.com |

P.O. Box 12608 Overland Park, KS 66282-3214

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Chandler Lifestyle | December 2014

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Chandler Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of Chandler’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Chandler Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

December 2014

Departments

18

8

Good Times

12

Family Feature

14

History 101

16

Home Matters

24

Locally Owned

26

Giving Back

30 Lifestyle Calendar 34

Parting Thoughts

14 The History of Tamales

How this delicious food brings a family together.

18 Places to Go and Things to Do

Keeping Christmas traditions all over the Valley.

24 Southwest Ornaments for Everyone

Find the perfect one for your tree this year.

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26

Good Times

Ribbon Cutting

Chandler-Gilbert Community College President Linda Lujan and Student President Laura Lancaster cut the ribbon at the opening of the new 75,000-square-foot Coyote Center, an academic building combining student services, athletics and academics in one location.

Fore! Randolph Scott Foundation Golf Memorial This year, 44 golfers took part in the 4th annual tournament at Ocotillo Golf Resort. The event helped raised money for the House of Refuge, a transitional housing group that helps homeless families with children.

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Chandler Lifestyle | December 2014

Around Town BALLET ETUDES

ELF THE MUSICAL

The story of Clara’s magic journey is told once again at this year’s Ballet Etudes Nutcracker. Sugar plum fairies and whirling snowflakes will all be a part of this Christmas tradition, as Tchaikovsky’s original score leads dancers through the ballet performance. Ballet Etude’s Nutcracker is a holiday celebration for the whole family. Backstage tours are available and there is a 20 percent discount for groups of ten or more.

The show runs from December 5th to December 7th at Chandler Center for the Arts located at 250 North Arizona Avenue. For more information, visit ChandlerCenter.org.

Elf, the hilarious Will Farrell hit film comes to the stage. Elf: The Musical tells the comedic tale of Buddy, a young orphan, who is unaware that he is a human.

He crawls into one of Santa’s bags and gets transported back to the North Pole.

After noticing that he is ginormous-sized and terrible at making toys, Buddy realizes that he is a human. He gets permission from Santa to travel to NYC, and sets off to find his birth father. While there, he finds that his father is on the naughty list.

So, he sets out to help his new family remember the real meaning of Christmas.

Elf: The Musical runs from Tuesday, December 2nd to Wednesday, December 3rd. The Mesa Arts Center is located on the corner of East Main Street and South Center Street. For more information on Elf, visit MesaArtsCenter.com.

CHANDLER’S FARMERS MARKET Swing by and scoop up your favorite treats and fresh produce at Chandler’s Farmers Market. The event takes place every week on Thursday from 3 to 7 p.m.

The Market features honey, breads, fresh produce, tamales, relishes, sweets, body products and more. This month’s gatherings will take place on December 4th, December 11th and December 18th. The Market gathers at 3 South Arizona Avenue in Chandler on the east side of A.J. Chandler Park. To learn more about the Market, visit DowntownChandler.org.

27th ANNUAL SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS The Spirit of Christmas is fun for the whole family and will get everyone in the Christmas spirit.

Hosted by Tom Booth, the Spirit of Christmas is a vivacious variety show featuring a cast of over 100 dancers, a horse and carriage, special guest performers, singers and a champion hoop dancer. The 27th Annual Spirit of Christmas starts December 13th and runs through December 21st at the Chandler Center for the Arts. For more information, visit ChandlerCenter.org.

MESA ARTS FESTIVAL Looking for a way to find unique gifts this holiday season? Look no further, as the Mesa Arts Festival is here. The Festival will feature art from local and national artists. Along with the art, the event features live music on two stages, delicious treats and The Bookman’s Family Activity area.

The Mesa Arts Festival starts Saturday, December 13th and runs through Sunday, December 14th at the Mesa Arts Center, 1 East Main Street in Mesa. For more information, visit MesaArtsCenter.com.

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Chandler Lifestyle | December 2014

THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER This delightful American comedy classic based on the bestselling book comes to the Mesa Arts Center. In The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, a couple struggles to put on a Christmas pageant at the local church having to cast the awful kids from the Herdman Family. Mayhem and hilarity ensue when the Herdman kids meet the Christmas story. This is a great tale for the entire family. The Best Christmas Pageant Ever takes place at the Mesa Arts Center from December 4th to December 14th. For more information, visit MesaArtsCenter.com.

ART WALK Every 3rd Friday of the month from 6-10 p.m. local artists showcase their artwork for residents of the community to view and purchase. Artwork displayed will include jewelry, oil paintings, pottery, pastel portraiture, floral design and photography.

This is also a great opportunity to purchase holiday gifts. Along with the artwork will be live music and artist demonstrations. Many independently-owned galleries and retail stores will be open for visitors to walk through. You can also enjoy dinner at the various restaurants in town. The Downtown Chandler Art Walk takes place December 19th on South Arizona Avenue south of East Chandler Boulevard. To learn more about the Art Walk, visit DowntownChandler.org.

SANTA’S HOUSE Starting December 13th, you can bring the youngins to Santa’s House at A.J. Chandler Park. Kids can meet Santa and get a free picture taken with him. A.J. Chandler Park is located on South Arizona Avenue just south of East Chandler Boulevard. To learn more, visit ChandlerAZ.gov or call 480.782.2735.

entertainment, a life size snow globe, dancers, singers and other performers. The Tumbleweed Tree Lighting Ceremony and Parade of Lights take place at A.J. Chandler Park in Downtown Chandler located at 3 South Arizona Avenue. For more information about the Ceremony, visit ChandlerAZ.gov.

ART QUILTS XIX: PERMISSION TO PLAY TUMBLEWEED TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY

Quilt makers from all over the country display their quilting skills at this annual contemporary artworks exhibition. The showcase gives artists a platform to tell their own story through quilt making. Starting as a local quilt show, the exhibition now draws entries from national and Canadian artists, and brings in thousands of visitors. The artists use various techniques and materials to express their personal journeys in life. Art Quilts XIX: Permission to Play is put on by the Chandler Center for the Arts located at 250 North Arizona Avenue.

The exhibit runs through January 17th.

For more information on the exhibit, visit ChandlerCenter.org.

It’s that time of year again: time for the Tumbleweed Tree Lighting Ceremony! This exciting annual tradition takes place on December 6th and is fun for the entire family. The Tumbleweed Tree Lighting Ceremony began back in 1957 with an inspired idea from Earl Barnum. Years later the tradition still stands. Every year, hundreds of tumbleweeds are collected and used to create the 25-foot tall wire frame.

After being affixed, the tumbleweeds are sprayed with 25 gallons of white paint, and dusted with 65 pounds of glitter, and 1,200 lights are placed on the tree. Along with the Tree Lighting, there will be a Parade of Lights, live

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11

Family Feature

Love Thy Neighbor One Chandler community is giving new meaning to this phrase Article Meghann Finn Sepulveda | Photography Provided

D

rive through Riggs Ranch Meadows during any major holiday and you’ll not only be surprised by the magnitude of families who gather to celebrate, but you’ll probably be invited to stay and enjoy a meal.

When the Kintner family moved back to Arizona from California in 2005, they were beyond grateful for the warm welcome they received from their neighbors.

Becoming neighbors

Mike and Amanda Kintner, and their two sons, Chase, 9, and Mason, 7, were not expecting to immediately connect with their neighbors, the Coniglarios, who live directly across the street.

“They were so gracious when we moved in,” says Mike. “They have a great patio in the front of their house and are very social, always having friends over.”

Originally from New York, Laura and James Coniglario, along with their three children Gina, 18, Sophia, 15, and Anthony, 11, serve as the heart of the neighborhood.

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Chandler Lifestyle | December 2014

“They not only invite neighbors over, but they extend the invitation to the family and friends of those neighbors,” Kintner adds. “Even when people move away from the neighborhood, they still come back for the fun events that happen here at Halloween and Christmas.”

Kintner grew up a military brat, often moving all over the country and world while his father served in the Air Force. He never had the opportunity to develop long-lasting roots or maintain childhood friendships.

His sons, however, regularly pal around with all the neighborhood kids.

“There are tons of boys ranging in ages from 5 to 13 who all go to school and play sports together,” Kintner says. “They’re like a little pack.”

Celebrating holidays

The neighbors celebrate New Year’s Eve, Fourth of July, Halloween and Christmas together, and have been keeping these traditions alive for many years.

On Halloween, the neighbors, consisting of four core families, set up outside to grill hot dogs and smoke ribs, and enjoy an adult beverage while handing out candy and interacting with other families.

Kintner takes half a day off from his job as the director of marketing and operations for Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino in Maricopa, to purchase bales of hay for his trailer, which he uses to pull the children around the neighborhood for trick-or-treating.

brating at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, where everyone enjoys sunshine, dive-in movies and plenty of swimming.

Planning kids’ activities, social outings During the warm months, the Coniglarios gather the neighborhood children and host movie nights.

“They set up chairs in their garage for all the kids,” Kintner says. “The adults hang out and catch up.”

But not all activities are centered on the kids. There is plenty of adult social interaction.

On a regular basis, the neighbors get together for golf tournaments or poker nights, where it’s typically the husbands against the wives. The ladies play bunco. They celebrate birthdays.

“For my 40th birthday, my wife arranged a double-decker bus to pick us up and take us out for dinner and drinks,” Kintner says.

“James even made a hero sandwich in the shape of the number 40 that we all enjoyed.”

“This year we had 40 people,” Kintner says. “It’s a lot of fun.”

At Christmas, the Coniglarios host a brunch that usually lasts through the day and into the evening hours.

“Typically they host about 60 family members and friends for a nice gathering with a huge spread of food,” Kintner says.

“Everyone brings a dish to share. It’s something that is anticipated every year.”

On the Fourth of July, the neighbors spend the weekend cele-

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Being grateful

Today it’s rare to find such close-knit communities of neighbors who share so much time together, who are like family.

“We consider ourselves very lucky and happy to be a part of it all, Kintner says. “It’s a wonderful little corner in Chandler with great people.”

The Kintners and Coniglarios are definitely demonstrating the meaning of being good neighbors.

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December 2014 | Chandler Lifestyle

13

History 101

Tamales Bring Generations of Family Together Long-standing tradition creates delicious memories Article Meghann Finn Sepulveda | Photography Food City

L

iving in the southwestern U.S., you’ve probably had tamales, either at a restaurant or from a generous co-worker, family member or friend. Typically consumed during the holiday season, these popular “red” and “green” pockets of beef, chicken, pork or green chili and cheese, surrounded by corn dough and wrapped in wax paper, are a staple among Hispanics all over the world.

While tamales are often found on restaurant menus throughout the year, it’s usually during the holidays that families get together to carry on the tradition of making dozens to share with their loved ones.

Origin of tamales

Tamales are thought to be dated back thousands of years, traced back to the ancient Aztec, Mayans and Incas who used the staple food to feed their army, along with hunters and travelers.

During 8000 to 5000 BC, tamales were considered portable food that could be made in advance and packed for a trip, and consisted of turkey, rabbit, frog, eggs, honey, fruit and beans, among other ingredients. Tamales were easily heated up over a wood fire, on hot coals or served cold.

Tamales are a traditional food not only in Mexico, but in other Latin populations such as Central America, South American, the Caribbean and the U.S. Thousands of years ago tamales were – and still are today – used in celebrations, recognizing strong cultural values and honoring family, kinship and community.

Varying in size, texture and filling, tamale wrappings have been known to include not only dried corn husks but soft tree bark and avocado and banana leaves.

Today, tamales have even been turned into a culinary cuisine filled with fruit such as mango, strawberry and pineapple; vegetables like sweet potato, pumpkin and spinach, and even chocolate and raisins for a sweet, spicy or savory combination.

Learning to make tamales

For many, secret tamale recipes have been passed down to family members for generations. It’s not uncommon for grandparents, aunts and uncles, siblings, cousins and children to all get together to assist in the tedious process of making homemade tamales.

While most of the ingredients can be purchased pre-made at grocery stores, specialty shops or Mexican restaurants, many fam14

Chandler Lifestyle | December 2014

ilies take great pride in cooking their own meat, grinding their own chilies and mixing their own corn mixture, known as masa.

All tamales incorporate personal variations, but traditional authentic “red” tamales are made up of cubed or shredded pork shoulder that has been cooked in dried red chili peppers. “Green” tamales are filled with corn, green chili peppers and cheese.

Once the fillings are ready, the masa needs to be prepared. This is often considered the most time consuming step. Mixing the masa with beef broth and lard or butter creates the perfect consistency.

Corn husks need to be sorted and soaked overnight so they soften.

An assembly line is then set up to spread the masa, place the fillings, fold the tamales and package in dozens to freeze or steam.

Once tamales are steamed, they can last for up to one week. Frozen tamales are good for up to a year.

Purchasing tamales

If making homemade tamales sounds like too much work, most Mexican restaurants such as Valle Luna, Nando’s and Si Senior, along with specialty grocery stores like Food City, offer frozen and cooked tamales for purchase.

Prices per dozen vary greatly, and calling to order in advance is strongly recommended.

With so many options, your family can easily start a tradition of bringing tamales to your dinner table during the holiday season.

Tamale Recipes Red Chili Tamales

• • • • • •

10 pounds of unprepared masa Corn husks 2.5 pounds of lard or vegetable oil 1 teaspoon of baking powder 1/3 cup of salt Red chili paste for color (see below)

Mix together the masa and spices; add red chili paste and mix until soft and fluffy.

Soak corn husks for at least two hours or overnight.

Red Chile Paste

Purchase one bag of New Mexico Red Chile Pods from the grocery store. Wash, devein (remove most of the seeds) being very careful not to touch your eyes or face. Place in pan and boil until soft.

When cool, place in blender to puree.

Add to masa recipe for color.

Red Tamale Filling

• 10 pounds of pork shoulder. Cut the roast into fist size portions for boiling purposes • Place in pan, cover with water and boil for about 2.5 hours or until it becomes tender • Remove from broth and cool • Once cooled and you can handle easily, shred the meat with two forks. Discard fat as you go. Save the broth for thinning of masa, etc.

• • • • •

1/3 cup of salt 1/4 cup of garlic powder 1 teaspoon of oregano 1 teaspoon of cumin 4 cups of red chili paste

1. Place shredded pork into sauté pan; add spices and red chili paste 2. Bring to a boil and remove from heat 3. Place in refrigerator to cool Recipes adapted from Valle Luna Mexican Food & Cantinas

December 2014 | Chandler Lifestyle

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Home Matters nucopia filled with treasures your guests will love, like old pictures, ticket stubs or their favorite candies.

Stay chic with the classics

Invest in quality, white dinnerware and serveware to easily transition from holiday entertaining to everyday use. Classic white plates complimented with white baking and serving vessels can serve as a blank canvas to add color and personal touches. Boutique

by Corelle is a timeless dinnerware set that resists breaks, chips, scratches and stains providing durability to create the perfect table season after season. And French White CorningWare with its classic fluting makes every dish you serve look extra smart.

Add seasonal elements

Holiday Tablescapes Fresh finds to inspire any table

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he holiday home entertaining season is gearing up, which means it’s time to take your entertaining dreams and inspirations and make them a reality.

As you begin planning for the next time you play host(ess) with the most(est), don’t let the creativity stop with the food. Create a holiday tablescape to set the mood and serve as the focal point so you can have the prettiest and most festive holiday party possible.

Inspiration can come from the changing seasons, touches of color, unique pieces and chic dinnerware to draw your guests in to an inviting celebration of friends, family and food. Not sure how to tackle your table? Follow these tips from the entertaining experts at Corningware, Corelle And More to help you turn your table from simple to simply breathtaking.

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Chandler Lifestyle | December 2014

Personalize the table with your favorite seasonal flowers, fruits and vegetables for an organic and fresh look. These elements bring pops of color and texture to amplify your tablescape. For arrangements, look for white lilies, red roses, green button poms and other festive greenery, such as berries, pinecones and sprigs of cedar. Not only will it look beautiful, but it will smell good, too.

Match it up

Throwback tablescapes using family treasures

Use a family heirloom as your starting point to bring a totally custom and retro twist to the table. Not only will it help to choose a color theme, but it will serve as a great conversation starter and ice breaker. Whether it’s your grandmother’s gorgeous glass vase filled with seasonal flowers that pop, or a retro tree topper, everyone at the table will notice and enjoy an unexpected piece.

Sweeten the deal

Nothing adds color and fun to a table like sweet treats. Find uniquely shaped bowls and glasses and fill them to the brim with your favorite colorful holiday candy.

Fill an oversized hurricane glass with mini candy canes or chocolates and marshmallows for after dinner s’mores. Get personal and create your own “Friendsgiving” cor-

The best way to create a cohesive look is with full sets of dishes, glassware and silverware. You can get everything to complete your table at Corningware, Corelle And More stores, which offer complete kitchenware collections from more than 80 well-known and trusted brands including Corelle, CorningWare, Baker’s Secret, Chicago Cutlery and Pyrex. Not to mention, Corningware, Corelle And More offers holiday products with the color schemes and patterns you need to complete your festive look. You can find a store closest to you at ShopWorldKitchen.com/stores.

Not only will guests bask in the creative design of your stunning tablescape, but the table will bring everyone together to create new memories, which is what the season is all about. For more ways to make your spread spectacular, visit ShopWorldKitchen.com.

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in the Southwest

Article Kathleen Blair Photography Provided

I

’ll never forget my first Christmas in Arizona. I had been invited to a friend’s for Christmas dinner. I thought it was quite unusual that on this beautiful, sunny day with windows open there would be a fire roaring in the fireplace. She went to great lengths to create a festive ambiance for her and her family. The huge saguaro in their front yard was proudly decorated with Christmas lights and a Christmas stocking had been carefully placed on top. It was also the first time I had seen luminarias lining the pathways of many houses. I left my Midwest memories of snow and sledding behind in Michigan, and I was making new memories in Arizona.

I love traditions and plan to include some new ones this year. To enhance your holiday season you, too, may want to include some from the following activities being held – near and far – in many cities throughout our wonderful state.

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Chandler Lifestyle | December 2014

A Chandler Christmas The city of Chandler is celebrating the Parade Of Lights, on Dec. 6 at 7 p.m. Marching bands, dance troupes, businesses and school groups all participate in this festive event. Right after the parade, the event hosts the 48Th Tumbleweed Tree Lighting Ceremony. And, you’ll want to stop by to see the 15’ human-sized Snow Globe, where up to six adults/children can gather together inside for a photo.

The Chandler Center of the Arts celebrates with Christmas programs including the Ballet Etudes-Nutcracker Dec. 5-7; The Snowcat Dec. 13; The Spirit Of Christmas Dec. 13-14, 20-21 and Zoppe An Italian Christmas Circus Dec. 26-Jan 4.

Other festive events happening throughout the month include Christmas Candy Trains; Revelation Christmas Party Casino Night; Creative Christmas Crafts; Polar Express; and Wreath Making for Birds. For dates and times visit the City of Chandler’s website.

Christmas in Nearby Cities In Mesa, the 33rd Annual Arizona Christmas Lighting is held throughout the month. Hundreds of thousands of lights twinkle in the historic Mesa Temple’s garden and light reflection pool. Wander around and enjoy the light display while listening to beautiful music. The play, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, will be held from Dec. 4-14 and a concert, Heavenly Peace, on Dec. 5-6, will be performed at the Mesa Center of the Arts. The First United Methodist Church of Mesa will be holding a wonderful display of Christmas Lights and music by the Sonoran Desert Chorale on Dec. 6.

The Southwest Version of the popular 12 Days of Christmas song…..

On the Twelfth Day of Christmas my True Love sent to me…

In Scottsdale, the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park is brightly lit with their holiday decorations from Dec. 12–Jan. 3. Children and adults will enjoy the endless strains of lights that wrap the trains and mark the route around the park with cartoon characters and a tunnel of lights. Enjoy Christmas at the Princess, at the Scottsdale Fairmont Princess Resort, with a four story musical tree; a desert ice skating rink; a magical snowfall; photos with Santa; carolers; a Nativity garden; a carousel; a Princess Express Train that takes you to see 2 million lagoon lights; a pirate ship; a rocking horse; and a Menorah lighting and latkes with applesauce for Hanukkah, through Jan. 4.

You’ll want to make Zoolights a family tradition and enjoy one of the largest holiday light shows in the country with more than 3.5 million lights and 600 lighted sculptures from Dec. 1-31. Your family will enjoy Jengo the Talking Giraffe, Tortuga the Talking Galapagos Tortoise, Music in Motion shows, movies, ice sculptors and much more.

Be sure to purchase your tickets early for the Desert Botanical Garden’s wonderful holiday display with luminarias and music, handbell ensembles and, on selected evenings, performances that include folk/bluegrass, jazz, Spanish guitar and violin. For a full list of performers and dates, visit their website.

At the Phoenix Symphony you can enjoy a Holiday Performance by the Phoenix Boys Choir Dec. 10-11 and the Nutcracker Ballet from Dec. 12-28.

Every weekend in December, in historic downtown Glendale, enjoy the festivities of Glendale Glitters with music, food, crafts and carriage rides.

Visit their website for details. continued >

Twelve Luminarias Twinkling, Eleven Peppers Roasting, Ten Cacti Prickling, Nine Rattlers Rattling, Eight Hopi Hoping, Seven Saguaros Soaring, Six Pueblos Perching, Five Golden Sunsets, Four Roadrunners Running, Three Coyotes Slinking, Two Mesas Rising, And a Raven in a Pinyon Pine Tree.

December 2014 | Chandler Lifestyle

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celebrating christmas

(continued)

From Dec. 1-28th at the Tempe Center of the Arts, enjoy the children’s play Jingle Bells, Batman Smells which is based on Barbara Park’s bestselling books. For more information, visit ChildsPlayAZ.org.

Fountain Hills has a Stroll in the Glow on Dec. 6 with music, a live nativity scene, a visit from Santa, and more than 60,000 lights and local shops serving treats and beverages.

Christmas Throughout Arizona In Prescott, experience an old fashion Christmas your family won’t forget and see why in 1989 former Governor Rose Mofford issued an official proclamation naming it Arizona’s Christmas City. For a list of holiday events, which include Christmas concerts, a Lavender tea party, the 32nd Annual Christmas Parade, Wildlights & Animal Sights, Handel’s Messiah Sing-Along, a Christmas Cantata, and a Swingin’ Christmas, visit the city’s website.

Take a drive to Lake Havasu City for their 20th Annual Festival of Lights at the English Village and London Bridge. Stroll and enjoy 650,000 lights on displays nightly from 6-10 p.m.

Little America Holiday Light Festival is found in Flagstaff as well as the Riordan Mansion State Historic Park offers a holiday tour. Have a North Pole Experience at the Santa’s Workshop display where your children can build toys with Santa and the elves and/or read a story and do a craft with Mrs. Santa. To reserve a spot, visit them at NorthPoleExperience.com.

A real treat would be a drive up to Williams for a train ride on the Polar Express, at the Grand Canyon Railroad. This one-hour evening includes a train journey and the reading of the Christmas story, as you travel to the North Pole. There, Santa will board the train and passengers will receive bells representing the spirit of Christmas. The journey back includes a sing-a-long of favorite Christmas carols. For reservations, visit TheTrain.com.

In Sedona, you can watch the Potter’s Hand Productions original play, Pilgrimage To Bethlehem. This wonderful Christmas musical is held Dec. 12-14. Enjoy The Festival of Trees at expose your Biz online takes the stress and confusion out of Social Media marketing. We provide a proven system that builds your Social Media platform with local, targeted people within your community who are interested in what your business has to offer. Once added to your targeted platform, we engage them with beneficial and relevant content that provides value for them on a daily basis. Our proven strategy will grow your customer base and increase your retention rate. This will result in more Money, Exposure, and Traffic for your business.

Tlaquepaque from Dec.4-6 with 45 Christmas trees which are available in a silent auction benefiting Toys for Tots. On Dec. 5, at Sedona’s Center Plaza in Uptown, there’s a tree-lighting celebration, with entertainment. On Dec. 6, a Breakfast with Santa at the Sedona Teen Center and a Jingle Bell Run/Walk through surrounding park trails with jingle bells on your shoes.

A Festival of Lights with 6,000 luminarias will be held Dec. 13 in the Tlaquepaque courtyards and walkways. On Dec. 20, the town celebrates with each retailer opening their doors and celebrating with sweet treats, special give-a-ways and discount offers at Holiday Sweet Stroll with a life size Snow Globe and Elsa, from the movie Frozen.

Other ideas include a trip to Tombstone to experience the old western town with luminarias; a trip to Tucson holds the Winterhaven Festival of Lights event; and, in Oracle, enjoy a Holiday Gifts & Art event with a holiday show and the sale of unique items made by local artisans. Call 520.896.2464 for dates and times.

The Reason for the Season As we celebrate Christmas this year, let us not lose focus on the real reason for this holiday, the birth of Jesus Christ. At Phoenix First Assembly you can purchase tickets for the 22nd Celebration of Christmas running Dec. 4-14. And, of course, a wonderful family tradition is to attend Christmas Eve services or Christmas Day services at your local church. And, in keeping with the season, consider adopting a family who may not be unable to have a Christmas dinner or wrapped presents for their children this year. Contact your city, charity or local church for a name of a family you can bless.

However you decide to celebrate the season this year, I wish you and your family a beautiful and meaningful Christmas and Hanukkah.

For more information and times of performances and other events not listed, visit the cities or facilities websites.

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Gift Guide: Thinking Outside the (Gift) Box This Holiday’s Helpful Guide to Keeping It Real – Real Unique, That Is Article Rachel Hawkinson | Photography Provided

T

he old saying goes, “It isn’t the gift, but the thought that counts.” But sometimes the only thoughts that come to mind are about how to give something that looks more thoughtful than a gift card, or why you keep drawing Aunt Janie’s name every year, or how to actually get your parents something they will use that doesn’t look like you waited until the last minute to shop for them.

Note: We personally love gift cards and think they make fantastic gifts, but they shouldn’t be the only gift you ever give someone, year after year. Now stop being lazy and read on…

Chandler Lifestyle has had their elves scouring the never-ending internet to find you some fun and unique gift ideas to give every type of person on your shopping list this season. Not everyone can face Black Friday, and let’s face it - browser-window shopping can be done in our jammies. But how do you make an impact with the internet? We have what you need to be the gift-giver that everyone will be raving about all season, without you ever having to leave your house.

Help your loved ones smooth over those rough patches with lotions, bath products and more from LUSH Cosmetics. Make sure your gifts are “the bomb” by picking up a variety of their

OneHopeWine GLITTER Celebration Box

bath bombs such as the citrus-infused Dashing Santa Bath Bomb ($5.25). Their New Charity Pot body lotion ($25.95) is a new formula of an old favorite that gives back all of its proceeds to local grassroots organizations that share their passion for animal welfare, human rights, and environmental causes. Go to LUSH Cosmetics at Chandler Fashion Center, or shop online at LushCosmetics.com for more ideas.

Give a gift that does double duty as a both a do-gooder and a show-stopper. ONEHOPE Wines donates half of the profits from each bottle to partner causes like autism, veteran services, ending childhood hunger and more. For more elaborate gift giving, try a GLITTER Celebration Box ($89), which provides 15 meals to a child in need while providing the recipient a Sparkling Brut, two champagne flutes and a $10 gift card. Note that this gift should be reserved for your out-of-state recipients, as laws prevent shipping alcohol to Arizona. But you can still find individual bottles locally at grocers like Fry’s and Fresh & Easy.

For more information on how you can drink up and do some good, go to OneHopeWines.com.

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Chandler Lifestyle | December 2014

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No one wants to be a common gift giver, so it only makes sense that you would look for those uncommon gifts from Uncommon Goods. Full of gifts for him, her, or your home, Uncommon Goods puts a fun twist on online shopping, whether you are gift-giving or simply indulging for yourself. Start by helping your loved ones distill both their holiday nerves and their next drink with a Whiskey and Rum Making Kit ($75).

Each kit comes with an oak barrel, three choices of essences, and everything else you need to make the spirits that will get you into the spirit. And once you’re done rolling out the barrel, you can roll the dice on your next meal with a set of Foodie Dice ($24). There are nine dice total that include proteins, cooking styles, herbs and vegetables for sides, offering over 186,000 possible combinations to keep your favorite foodie’s taste buds from getting bored. Cooking lessons, on the other hand, well that’s up to them. For these and other uncommon holiday gift ideas, check out Uncommon Goods at UncommonGoods.com/ occasions/christmas-gifts/christmas-gifts.

Got a friend that prefers a night in on the couch to a night out

on the town? Show them just how fab they can be with some gifts from Fab – an online retailer with goodies that range from modern artwork to stylish to witty tees to modern home décor.

Encourage your loved one to snuggle up with some campfire s’mores while they don a pair of Snuggly S’Mores USB Footwarmers ($29.99) that will help fend off winter chills by plugging them into the USB port of a computer or laptop. Music lovers can drop the needle on some vinyl with a Cruiser Turntable ($99.95), or plug in their iPhone and find a good yoga workout to follow with a new @earlboykins mat ($80) that helps inspire your downward dogs to be purrfectly centered. Check out these and more truly fab gifts at Fab.com.

Whether you love the rush of retail madness and insist on facing those packed parking lots, or you can’t quite shake your gift card giving addiction, these sites are just a few of the amazing shopping resources available to you for both the holiday season and year-round. So point, click and check out how easy it is to be the person to give the most thoughtful (and least stress-inducing) gifts of them all.

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Locally Owned

Southwest Ornaments Inspired By Arizona, Created In Chandler Article Seth Conaway | Photography Provided

I

n 1980, after plucking herself from Wisconsin to attend ASU, Southwest Ornaments artist Brenda Schodt saw for the first time the majestic beauty of an Arizona sunset from the window of an airplane and discovered an immediate source of inspiration.

“I had never been to Arizona,” Schodt explains. “In fact, I had never even flown on a commercial airline. It was right at sunset when the flight was landing. It was just so beautiful. The sun was bright and happy and colorful. I’d never really seen anything like that, or the mountains or the cactus. I just fell in love with it, and I still love it. This felt like it could be a home forever, right away.”

It was while searching a job board for extra income that Schodt’s eyes fell upon a 3x5 notecard with a vague advertisement for a local artist to duplicate original ornamental designs.

“So I went to apply, was given a few blank ornaments, some paint and a couple paint brushes and I came back and got the job,” she says.

Schodt then began to create her own ornaments, gifting them to friends and family for the holidays and special occasions. It was during this time that Brenda and husband, Rick, began frequenting local art festivals with Brenda’s ornaments in tow.

“Friends and family were encouraging me to do this, to present them to the public, that maybe people would want to buy them,” Brenda remembers. “I went to my first art festival, the Festival of Lights in Ahwatukee, and I sold all that I had.”

Recognizing her calling, Brenda set to work creating more designs and wrote down each idea that came to mind. She considered branching out to capture the natural beauty of other parts of the country, but

24

Chandler Lifestyle | December 2014

little by little came to realize that her true inspiration came primarily from the unique color palette of the great southwest. Thus, Southwest Ornaments was born.

“I just wanted to stick with those kinds of designs,” Brenda explains. “It just seemed like I had to do it. I sent a couple of samples to gift stores, like the Chapel of the Holy Cross in Sedona. They loved them and ordered right away. We’re now in more than 200 stores.”

Rick, the company’s front man, has been managing the business end of things for the past four years. The Schodt’s complement one another: Brenda, the soft spoken and private artist, is happy to have her husband network with local and regional retailers while she designs, creates and experiments with different ideas in the solace of her studio.

Southwest Ornaments can now be found in such places as the Desert Botanical Gardens, Sibley’s West, and A.J.’s Fine Foods, to name a few.

“Brenda paints year round, almost every day,” Rick says. “The ornaments are ready to be distributed immediately. And everything, from the blank ornaments to the boxes we ship our finished product in, is made right in the U.S.A., even right here in Phoenix. We keep it local. If we can get it from here, we do.”

Designs range from the Arizona sunrise and sunset to blooming ocotillo and barrel cactus, hot air balloons and hummingbirds, and a festive “Santa Gecko.” Besides the high demand of the holiday season, ornament enthusiasts of all ages are on the hunt the rest of the year for the next addition to their collection. The Schodts readily admit that Southwest Ornaments has no “off season” to speak of.

“This is original art, Brenda’s art, that happens to be on an ornament,” Rick says.

“We even provide a stand so customers can display their ornament all year round,” Brenda adds.

Recently, the Schodts applied for and obtained a collegiate license so that, in 2015, they can design and distribute official ASU, U of A, and NAU ornaments. Each design features an official logo and color scheme and comes in a custom box designed by Brenda herself. An exciting development, both Brenda and Rick see this as the highlight of their year.

“Every day, I’m appreciative that I get to do what I love for a living,” Brenda says. “I never complain. This has been amazing. I’m so thankful to all of the customers who have kept me going. We’re really going to focus on the collegiate ornaments next year and keep creating, keep appreciating what we have. We seem to get bigger and better every year. The biggest thing is taking care of our customers.

If we put out a top quality product, they’ll keep coming back.”

To learn more about Southwest Ornaments, visit their website at SouthwestOrnaments.com.

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Giving Back

Chandler Business Sparkles and Inspires Coffin & Trout Fine Jewelers Gives ICAN A Unique Gift Article Michelle Guerrero | Photography Provided

B

ehind every great nonprofit organization is a strong group of community members that fuels the program’s services. And by fuel, I mean fund; they fundraise for the program in different and creative ways. They may not work in the trenches like other volunteers, but trust me when I say these great programs wouldn’t be possible without them. These people are the families sending in dollars, the people buying event tickets and companies donating auction and raffle items.

I’m touting this group of people because often they don’t receive the same benefits your typical volunteer receives. They don’t benefit from a child’s smile or a mother’s gratitude, yet find satisfaction knowing that someone is benefitting from the shade tree they grew, even if they aren’t there to sit with them.

Coffin & Trout Fine Jewelers is a Chandler business that fuels ICAN, Positive Programs for Youth. ICAN provides free, comprehensive programs that empower youth to be productive, self-confident and responsible members of the community. Coffin & Trout became involved six years ago, just after Dave Trout passed away unexpectedly. Randy Coffin sought to honor Trout’s passion for youth advocacy by supporting ICAN in his memory.

“We have always had a philanthropic culture at Coffin & Trout and have looked to give back to the community. ICAN seemed like the perfect organization to align with and make a difference with our Chandler youth who live in extreme poverty,” says Dean Reiter, the sales manager at Coffin & Trout.

Rieter has worked at Coffin & Trout for 16 years. He’s been involved with ICAN since 2008, and in 2013 joined the board of directors.

“Many people don’t realize the need just a few miles away in the city of Chandler. Once you hear the statistics of this area, you need to be involved,” says Reiter.

Every year the jewelers donate a piece, such as a Rolex watch, to raffle at ICAN’s Festival of Trees event. This year, Coffin came up with something unique, a beautifully designed pendant filled with jewels and hope.

“It is an exquisite piece of jewelry and has so much meaning behind it, not just as a tribute to Dave Trout, but as representation of ICAN and what this program does for the community,”

says Becky Jackson, president and CEO of ICAN. “The fact that he personally designed this piece exclusively for ICAN shows the sincere generosity of Randy and his team.”

The pendent has pink and blue sapphires to represent the youth whose spirits shine at ICAN each day, while the outer circle of diamonds represent the organization itself and the solid foundation that the ICAN donors and volunteers provide. At the center of the piece is a star of hope; a combination of yellow, white and rose gold with an exquisite one carat diamond at the center.

The pendant is being raffled at ICAN’s 11th Annual Festival continued >

26

Chandler Lifestyle | December 2014

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Giving Back

(continued)

of Trees gala on Friday, December 5. The event takes place at the Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa from 6 p.m. to midnight. The vintage Hollywood-inspired affair, themed An Evening Among Stars, will include a cocktail reception, followed by a fivestar meal and exclusive VIP after-party with live entertainment

by Chuck E. Baby.

“The youth and teens that come to ICAN live in the Chandler Redevelopment area, a place with high poverty and high crime, including nine rival gangs,” says Jackson. “The fact that ICAN can offer these kids critical programs for absolutely no cost is a true testament to the strong support of the East Valley community.”

They provide a full complement of programs, proven effective in equipping youth to achieve personal and academic success by tackling substance abuse, gang involvement and juvenile delinquency. ICAN exists to combat these issues and build a strong future for our community. Their staff is comprised of highly trained professionals who work with the youth on life skills, decision making and goal setting to prepare them to be responsible adults. Through their community partnerships, they are able to transport youth via van to their facility and provide them with a healthy snack and dinner, in addition to the many programs at ICAN such as: homework help, steps to respect and healthy lifestyles.

Not everyone has the time to volunteer and that’s okay. But we can all play a part in our community. To business owners, when a volunteer knocks on your door asking for an auction

design

•

restoration

item, remember that even a small contribution can make a difference in the bottom line of a nonprofit organization. Parents, instead of taking the kids out to dinner and a movie, find a family friendly charity event to attend this holiday season. Everyone will enjoy time together, the kids will learn a powerful lesson about giving, and you all will make an impact on the people or animals they serve.

Raffle tickets for the Festival of Trees drawing are $100 each and can be purchased now at ICANAz.org/festivaloftrees. Participants need not be present to win. ICAN is always looking for new volunteers to work with youth and continually seek donations such as school supplies, art supplies and sports equipment. Visit icanaz.org for more information, or contact Cassie Patris-Brown at 480.874.7577 about volunteering or donating.

Submit your favorite nonprofit organization, or a special person involved in the community, for our Giving Back department to MichelleMGuerrero@live.com.

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December

and a complimentary Santa hat. For more information, visit 12KRun.com.

DECEMBER 3

DECEMBER 9

DIAMOND IN THE ROUGH

CAREER CONNECTORS

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GILBERT

Come see Greg Diamond and his sensational video light show, as he pays tribute to the legendary Neil Diamond. Diamond in the Rough will include the classic hits, “Cracklin’ Rosie,” Sweet Caroline,” and “Cherry Cherry.”

For more information visit NDTribute.com.

Is your career transitioning? Career Connectors can help. The free events include professional speakers, who cover topics, like networking, resume building, and LinkedIn. For more information, visit CareerConnectors.org or call 480.442.5806.

The Salt River Brass plays holiday hits for the whole family to hear. Escape to a winter wonderland with classics, like “The Twelve Days of Christmas,” “The Little Drummer Boy,” and “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.” For more information, visit MesaArtsCenter.com.

Lifestyle Calendar

DECEMBER 5

DECEMBER 14 HOLIDAY POPS

DECEMBER 16 MYTHBUSTERS

BOB NEWHART

MESA

LOCATION

Join Jamie Hyneman and Adam Savage as they take you through an outrageous evening of on-stage experiments and behindthe-scenes stories. For more information, visit MesaArtsCenter.com.

From two successful television shows to fourteen feature films and millions of albums sold worldwide, it would be fair to say that Bob Newhart has mastered the art of entertaining. Newhart brings some of his classics to the stage, including Sir Walter Raleigh and The Submarine Commander. For more information, visit WinGilaRiver.com.

DECEMBER 12 THREE DOG NIGHT LOCATION

In their fourth decade of creating music, Three Dog Night celebrates longevity by sharing its 10+ hits on tour. For more information, visit WinGilaRiver.com.

DECEMBER 6 PATTI LABELLE LOCATION

Patti Labelle and her new attitude are in town, so get ready for the house to be brought down. Ms. Labelle uses her soulful voice to take on pop, R&B, and spiritual sonnets at Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino. For more information, visit WinGilaRiver.com.

DECEMBER 9 MELISSA ETHRIDGE MESA

The Grammy-winning artist brings her iconic voice and personal stories to the stage as she talks about her life journey and sings classics like, “Come to My Window.” For more information, visit MesaArtsCenter.com.

30

Chandler Lifestyle | December 2014

DECEMBER 13

DECEMBER 17

THE SNOWCAT

DAVID KOZ AND FRIENDS

LOCATION

MESA

Live music, story telling, and singing are all a part of this heartwarming original musical production about a little girl searching for her cat.

For more information, visit ChandlerCenter.org.

The David Koz Christmas Tour is here to bring you holiday cheer with artists like Jonathan Butler, Christopher Cross, and R&B singer, Maysa. For more information, visit MesaArtsCenter.com.

DECEMBER 13 VICKI CARR

DECEMBER 19

LOCATION

A PHOENIX BOYS CHOIR HOLIDAY

Three Grammy Awards and 60 best selling recordings later, Vicki Carr is still selling out shows. Her music has paved the way for Latin performers today. For more information, visit WinGilaRiver.com.

MESA

DECEMBER 13 12K’S OF CHRISTMAS GILBERT

Come to Freestone District Park to take part in a running Christmas celebration. The race includes carolers at every kilometer marker

Celebrate holiday traditions from all over the world as The Phoenix Boys Choir plays various Christmas songs. Bring the whole family because there a high likelihood that Santa will be there. For more information, visit MesaArtsCenter.com.

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DECEMBER 20 AN IRISH CHRISTMAS MESA

An Irish Christmas takes you through generations of Irish tradition. From Riverdance to celebrating the tradition of butter making, this show covers it all. For more information, visit MesaArtsCenter.com.

DECEMBER 27 FIESTA BOWL PARADE PHOENIX

Fans of football and fans of parades come on down to Central Phoenix for the Spirit of the Southwest Fiesta Bowl Parade. In its 44th year, the Parade will feature equestrian units, floats, helium balloons, and the Fiesta Bowl Queen & Court. For more information, visit FiestaBowl.org.

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You saw her backstage commentary on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno back in the 90’s and now you can see her in person on stage.

The stand-up comedian brings her routine to Mesa for a night of laughs. For more information, visit MesaArtsCenter.com.

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DECEMBER 31 NEW YEAR’S EVE WITH POWERDRIVE LOCATION

Ring in the new year rockin’ out to the Powerdrive Band. For more information, visit WinGilaRiver.com or call 800.946.4452.

DECEMBER 31 BRIAN REGAN

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What better way to end the year than with a good laugh? Brian Regan comes to Comerica Theatre and brings his hilarious, sarcastic, self-deprecating act with him. For more information, visit ComericaTheatre.com.

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December 2014 | Chandler Lifestyle

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Parting Thoughts

Top Ten Resolutions Even I Can Keep Article Anne Potter Russ

A

s we all contemplate the joys of January and the requisite making of resolutions (and the systematic breaking thereof...), I thought it poignant and pertinent to make some resolutions to which I know I can adhere. Really, who likes to start off a brand new year with the best of intentions only to see them slide down the slippery slope? Not me!

That’s why this list, thanks to Mr. Letterman, is manageable and meant to make you smile.

10. Stay out of the gym during the month of January. There will be 1,003 people there who think they can go nine miles per hour on the treadmill because they saw some yahoo on Biggest Loser do it, and they’re sure it’s not that hard. Get off before you hurt yourself.

9. Refuse to do any more stupid people tricks. I entered some ridiculous 50,000-words-in-a-month novel writing contest in November. First of all, I don’t have 50,000 words I can put in an understandable sequence in a month. Second of all, don’t you people have lives? Moby Dick is already taken.

8. Do not buy one more appealing paperback book until I have finished one of the seven appealing paperbacks on my bedside table.

I don’t care if it’s got Oprah, Michelle Obama, Ellen DeGeneres, Mackenzie Phillips, and Snoopy all on the cover, I’m not buying.

7. I am not going to pay more to check my underwear on a flight than I pay to check my whole person. Do you hear me? I’ll take a cab to Mazatlan, I swear.

6. Insist that wait staff at restaurants learn the soup of the day before they approach my table. True story... recent outing to a restaurant in the Legends; asked the waitress what the soup was; she replied, “Umm, something with chicken in it, I can’t remember the name.” Oh, that narrows it down.

5. Put my Christmas cactus in the closet so it blooms on Christmas instead of November 19th. Oh, for the love of penguins, does this mean Al Gore was right?

4. Use the word “Shankapotomus” more. Seriously, try it. “Catapotomus, Dorkapotomus, Freakapotomus,” isn’t that fun?

3. Watch more prime-time television. Really. I’m the only one I know who can’t keep up at a cocktail party because I have no idea why Madmen aren’t sitting on the laps of Desperate Housewives.

2. Figure out why they put Braille lettering on the ATMs in the drive-up lane.

1. Go to the gym in February.

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Chandler Lifestyle | December 2014

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