



Summer has always carried with it a sense of adventure—longer days, looser schedules, and that irresistible urge to get out and go. It’s a season that invites spontaneity, where everyday routines give way to days at the lake, backyard barbecues, and impromptu road trips. It’s also a time to follow your curiosity and explore something new.
Like many of you, our family counts down to our planned vacations all year long. And we’re not the “lounge by the hotel pool” kind of travelers. We love diving into the culture of wherever we are, seeking out local food, unique places, and the rhythms that make each place we visit diverse and special.
In this Explore issue, we invite you to see the world through that same lens. From highlighting the cool, misty charm of Tomales Bay and the Point Reyes National Seashore just a couple of hours away, to the lush landscapes and vibrant culture of faraway Bali, we’re spanning coasts both near and far. We also spotlight an El Dorado Hills native carving her path and making waves in the fast-paced world of sports media—a reminder that exploring can be just as much about new experiences as it is about new places.
So consider this your invitation to slow down, look around, and embrace the joy of exploring. Happy July!
KRISTY MURDOCH, PUBLISHER @ELDORADOHILLSCITYLIFESTYLE
July 2025
PUBLISHER
Kristy Murdoch | kristy.murdoch@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Todd Murdoch | todd.murdoch@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Krista Minard
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Cadence Murdoch
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Krista Minard, Todd Murdoch, Angela Broockerd
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Heidrun Meadery, Hog Island Oyster Co., Marin Convention & Visitors Bureau, Lodge at Marconi, Jenna Oxford, Janie Jones, Todd Murdoch
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
Hometown Pride: Alex Eschelman, Sports Broadcaster
The EDH native traveled to Arizona, San Francisco, Montana, and Salt Lake City before joining KTNV Channel 13 in Las Vegas as a sports multimedia journalist
Summer Escape to West Marin
A few ways to explore Tomales Bay and Point Reyes Exploring Bali’s Peaceful Side Enjoy a quiet reset in Nusa Dua on the far side of the world
On the shores of Tomales Bay, Hog Island Oyster Co. runs Tony’s Seafood, a sitdown restaurant with beautiful views of the bay.
Hog Island Oyster Co.
ARTICLE BY KRISTA MINARD
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
THE EDH NATIVE TRAVELED TO ARIZONA, SAN FRANCISCO, MONTANA, AND SALT LAKE CITY BEFORE JOINING KTNV CHANNEL 13 IN LAS VEGAS AS A SPORTS MULTIMEDIA JOURNALIST
Sports have always been part of Alex Eschelman’s life. She grew up in a family that enjoyed golfing, skiing, traveling, and watching sports, and her involvement in cheerleading further fed her passion for the thrill of competition. She graduated from University of Arizona in 2019 with degrees in journalism and sports management, then interned at Pac-12 Networks in San Francisco before going on air at ABC and FOX affiliates in Bozeman, Montana. From there, she was on to the Big Sky Conference in Salt Lake City, where she covered the league on ESPN+ and Scripps Sports. In April 2024, she joined KTNV Channel 13 in Las Vegas, where she says work doesn’t feel like work.
“From our family bike rides to our golf outings and ski trips, I grew up with parents who showed me how sports can create everlasting memories.”
On air, she’s confident, warm, and enthusiastic–and she knows her stuff. Let’s catch up with her!
While the Oak Ridge High School cheerleaders were girls I constantly admired as a kid, my parents are two figures who have inspired me every day. From our family bike rides to our golf outings and ski trips, I am extremely fortunate to have been raised by parents who showed my sister and me how sports can create everlasting memories.
Initially, it was my passion for cheerleading. Growing up, I always loved being on the sidelines and finding ways to bring people together. During my senior year of high school, I started thinking about which career path I wanted to pursue in college. I cannot recall the exact moment I realized I wanted to be a sports broadcaster. However, I think I just knew it was the right profession for me. Later, being a part of ESPN College GameDay when I was a freshman cheerleader at University of Arizona really solidified my dream of becoming a sports reporter. Seeing Sam Ponder in action alongside Lee Corso, Kirk Herbstreit, and the entire broadcast team was unforgettable.
I have had many exciting on-air moments, including interviewing Raiders legend Marcus Allen and NBA all-time great Damian Lillard. With that being said, the most exciting was my first time sideline reporting at a Montana State football game. My dream became my reality.
Getting the opportunity to host a Utah Jazz broadcast. In Salt Lake City with the Big Sky Conference, I shadowed the Jazz broadcasters in my off time. One day, I got a phone call asking if I wanted to fill-in host because the main anchor was unable to do the broadcast. I am so thankful to the entire Jazz broadcast production team for that chance, as that invaluable experience has helped me succeed in Las Vegas.
Moving to new places frequently and working weekends and night shifts has been challenging at times. However, I am grateful that there have been many more rewarding moments than difficult ones. It is hard to look at my job as “work” because of how fun it is to attend major sporting events for a living. When my profession poses challenges, I am fortunate to have great family and friends who I lean on.
Every day is different. Oftentimes, I am at a game going live in our shows and putting a story together on the matchup. When I am not at a game, I am covering a practice or event. Sometimes I have a photographer with me. However, I am also responsible for shooting my own content and editing it for television.
“I have had many exciting on-air moments, including interviewing Raiders legend Marcus Allen and NBA all-time great Damian Lillard.”
HOW DO YOU PREPARE FOR INTERVIEWS WITH ATHLETES AND COACHES?
Sounds simple, but I google them! I read articles and watch or listen to previous interviews. From there, I start writing my questions and putting them in order.
ANY PARTICULARLY MEMORABLE INTERVIEWS OR UNEXPECTED MOMENTS ON AIR?
I recently did an interview with a mother and her daughter, Wonderful, who is an adaptive athlete. Wonderful’s mom did the interview. Though Wonderful could not speak, she smiled the entire time, and she grabbed my hand. We held hands most of our interview, and that is a moment I will never forget.
WHAT’S A DREAM ASSIGNMENT?
To be a sideline reporter for ESPN. I would love to be assigned to an oldschool Pac-12 matchup like Colorado versus Arizona.
WHAT’S NEXT FOR YOU?
I’m extremely excited to host the Las Vegas Aces’ pregame, halftime, and postgame shows on Scripps Sports this season.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHER YOUNG WOMEN HOPING TO BREAK INTO SPORTS MEDIA?
Work hard, be kind to people, learn from your failures, celebrate your accomplishments, never be afraid to try something new or ask for help, and believe in yourself.
ARTICLE BY KRISTA MINARD | PHOTOGRAPHY
BY VARIOUS
Tomales Bay is a sparkling estuary that brings the scent of the sea on the breeze.
About two hours’ drive from EDH, western Marin County beckons with rolling hills, farms and dairies, pounding-surf beaches, and a sparkling bay that brings the scent of the sea on the cool breeze. This region is close enough for a day trip, and perfect for a summer weekend getaway. July temps in West Marin might not even reach 70 degrees.
Anchoring West Marin is Tomales Bay, a narrow inlet off the Pacific Ocean that borders Point Reyes National Seashore and extends about 15 miles along an underwater portion of the San Andreas Fault. Merely a mile wide with an average depth of 18 feet, the bay—an estuary—creates serene beaches, reedy marshes, and varying waterscape, depending on the tides. Highway 1 on the bay’s eastern side leads to the area’s renowned oyster farms and cheese purveyors. On the water’s western side, roads go to Drakes Beach and the Kenneth C. Patrick Visitor Center, Point Reyes Lighthouse and Visitor Center, Abbotts Lagoon, Tomales Bay State Park beaches, Tomales Point, and other beaches and vista points. Ranch land abounds. Trails, too—the region is crawling with hikers and walkers. Pick up maps and learn about area topography, flora, and fauna at Bear Valley Visitor Center, outside the area’s hub town of Point Reyes Station. (Note: An approximately 20-minute drive west of the visitor center brings travelers to Limantour Beach, a popular spot for horseback riding, sunset-watching, and wildlife-spotting.)
Near Point Reyes Station, a couple of cheese options beckon. Nicasio Valley Cheese Company, a short jog inland, has a small storefront and a lineup of soft cheeses. At Marin French Cheese Co., tables beside a pretty lake make a nice place to enjoy its specialty triple crème brie, crackers, and other picnic goodies. Other cheese spots in the area include Point Reyes Farmstead and Tomales Farmstead Creamery. These outlets as well as the oyster farms in the area run tours, typically by reservation; it’s always worth checking to see if you can get a peek behind the scenes.
In town, don’t miss the Palace Market’s famous water buffalo milk soft serve, available in chocolate and vanilla (or swirled) from the deli in the back. Also in town: a bookstore, shops full of gift and garden items, Brickmaiden Breads, West Marin Culture Shop (The Farmer’s Wife sandwiches, Wild West Ferments sauerkraut, and other local goodies), and several good restaurants. Station House Café and Side Street Kitchen, both longtime favorites, have menus highlighted with farm-to-plate dishes created from locally grown and raised ingredients. Also in the middle of town, visitors will want to explore Toby’s Feed Barn, which is a community gathering point with a coffee-and-pastry kiosk, bright-colored Adirondack chairs for hanging out, an art gallery, and a store loaded with provisions. Toby’s also is the site of the Saturday morning farmers’ market, a hub of activity from May through September.
On the bay’s Highway 1 side, near Point Reyes Station, Heidrun Meadery’s tree-canopied lane leads to its bucolic, flower-laden grounds. In the charming tasting room, visitors will discover sparkling mead (wine made with honey), honey, and farm-related gift items. The outdoor patio and orchard areas are perfect for groups and picnickers. If your group is six or more, reservations are required. Take a walk out to the pollinator garden, and keep an eye out for the farm’s buzzing bee boxes. Tours take place Saturdays at 11:30 a.m. and include a tasting flight ($56 a ticket; reservations needed).
In Marshall, Lodge at Marconi has 46 guestrooms, a beautiful honeymoon suite A-frame, Mable’s restaurant, and several event and conference spaces. Renovated recently, the property is luxurious retro-’70s style, with a communal fireplace among its courtyard paths—you’ll feel like you’re at camp while roasting marshmallows from lodge-provided s’mores kits. Two cozy reading rooms with mid-mod décor include paraphernalia from the site’s past as an early-1900s trans-Pacific radio center (thanks to inventor/property namesake Guglielmo Marconi).
Renovated recently, the property is luxurious retro-’70s style, with a communal fireplace among its courtyard paths.
The lodge lies among the trees within the 62-acre Marconi State Historic Park, where trails wind through forest. A highlight is Tower Hill, a grassy meadow overlooking Tomales Bay. Watch for deer, turkeys, bobcats, rabbits, squirrels, and many types of birds. Leave the earpods back in the room; the birdsong is delightful.
Lodge guestrooms include queen, double queen, king and combinations with twin beds, too; the property welcomes families and also is a popular wedding site.
At Mable’s, diners will find inventive dishes including a number of spiced dips and a seafood stew served with housemade sourdough focaccia.
Nearby, oyster companies lure the hungry. The cool, clean estuary water, as well as its abundant plankton, make Tomales Bay a prime oyster farming region.
At Tomales Bay Oyster Company, raw oysters are available to go only; plan to shuck and eat them elsewhere. Idea: Take them to the picnic tables in the meadow at Marconi State Historic Park.
At Hog Island Oyster Co. (named for the island near the mouth of the bay), get the bivalves raw to go from The Hog Shack window or make a reservation at The Boat Oyster Bar (Friday–Monday), which serves raw and barbecued oysters, charcuterie boards, and other seafood specialties outdoors beside the water. Hog Island Oyster Co. also runs Tony’s Seafood, a sit-down restaurant on the bay. Also in the vicinity is The Marshall Store, which serves oysters and other seafood with waterside seating.
On the western side of the bay, Sir Francis Drake Boulevard passes through the tiny communities of
Inverness Park (the market makes creative sandwiches) and Inverness, site of the Point Reyes shipwreck (a deteriorating but picturesque fishing boat beached behind the grocery store). Kayaks from Tomales Bay Expeditions can be rented and launched at Tomales Bay Resort; their nighttime bioluminescence tours reveal the bay’s glowing plankton and other microorganisms with each stroke of the paddle.
The road continues toward the lighthouse—on the way, follow signs to North District Operations Center. Sounds boring, right? But you’re in for a treat: the cypress tree tunnel. A stand of Monterey cypress, one of the few tree species with the fortitude to stand up to area wind forces, arches over the road that leads to the historic Point Reyes Receiving Center. In 1929, this site took over for Guglielmo Marconi’s wireless telegraphy site in Marshall, and inside the Art Deco building, radio equipment, ship-to-shore Morse communications, and teletype—some dating to the World War II era—has been restored, and it still broadcasts on numerous frequencies. The center is open most Saturdays noon to 4 p.m. (visit the National Park Service website; search “KPH tree tunnel” to email reservations). On July 12, during the annual “Night of Nights” event, historic Morse code radio station KPH returns to the air to commemorate the cessation of commercial Morse operation in the nation. Radio buffs, visit the Maritime Radio Historical Society website for more info.
Farther out is Drakes Beach, with dramatic sandstone cliffs and the Kenneth C. Patrick Visitor Center (open
Friday–Sunday)—the highlight here is the minke whale skeleton suspended from the ceiling. At the Point Reyes Lighthouse, more than 300 steps lead down to the lighthouse (and back up!). On a clear day, views from the lighthouse, visitor center, and associated observation platforms are unsurpassed—the wild ocean and brilliant sky, stretches of white-cliff-white-surf beaches, and sea lion clusters. Wind and fog can prevail (bring warm layers), and lighthouse stairs will be closed if winds exceed 40 mph, so plan your trip accordingly. This area is closed Tuesday and Wednesday.
A number of hiking trails wind throughout the Point Reyes National Seashore, skirting Tomales Bay, and crisscrossing surrounding ridges and forests. A family favorite: the half-mile (one-way) stretch through the woods between Heart’s Desire and Indian beaches (the latter is accessible by foot or paddle only). Abbotts Lagoon trail (2.8 miles round trip) leads to an observation bench overlooking the peaceful lagoon (so many birds!) and out through sand dunes to the ocean beach. At Tomales Point trailhead, visitors can head for windswept McClure’s Beach and self-tour Pierce Ranch Historic Site to learn dairy farming history before hitting the trail (9.4 miles round trip) that cuts through the tule elk preserve and tangles of wildflowers and reveals spectacular views of Tomales Bay, Bodega Bay, and the open, restless ocean.
Photography provided by Heidrun Meadery, Hog Island Oyster Co., Marin Convention & Visitors Bureau, and Lodge at Marconi.
On a clear day, views are unsurpassed—the wild ocean, white-cliff-white-surf beaches, and sea lion clusters.
Behind every City Lifestyle magazine is a leap of faith — someone who chose to shape the story of their city. They saw a chance to inspire, connect, and elevate the voices that make their community shine.
Now, new cities are waiting for someone to say yes. What if it was you?
Enjoy a quiet reset in Nusa Dua on the far side of the world
For travelers seeking a more peaceful side of Bali, Nusa Dua offers a calm and scenic escape far from the island’s party crowds. Located on Bali’s southern coast, this serene enclave is known for its pristine beaches and relaxed atmosphere, an ideal destination for those wanting a slower pace without sacrificing natural beauty or meaningful activity.
While getting to Bali can be a long journey, the reward is well worth the effort. Once in Nusa Dua, travelers will discover the combination of tropical scenery, warm hospitality, and laid-back energy makes the distance quickly fade from memory.
Mornings in Nusa Dua often begin with quiet walks or runs along the coastal path that winds along the beachfront resorts. The path is shaded, well-maintained, and kept beautifully clean. You will hear the soft, rhythmic swish of palm leaves as locals hand-sweep the streets and walkways, a quiet ritual that reflects the island’s deeprooted sense of care and order. Along the way, you’ll notice small, woven palm-leaf trays called Canang Sari placed on sidewalks, doorsteps, and shrines; these daily offerings are central to Balinese Hinduism. The simple yet beautiful arrangements, filled with flowers, incense, and bits of food, are a way to express gratitude and maintain spiritual balance in everyday life. Furthermore, the beaches themselves are wide, clean, and relatively uncrowded— ideal for relaxing in peace.
One meaningful stop is Pura Nusa Dharma, one of the oldest temples in the area, where the tranquil setting and traditional Balinese architecture offer a moment of cultural connection and quiet reflection, underscoring the island’s blend of natural beauty and spiritual grace.
“Surrounded by natural beauty and a culture rooted in ritual and mindfulness, visitors often find themselves letting go of everyday distractions.”
For surfers, the nearby breaks offer consistent, manageable waves. While the main Nusa Dua beach is better suited to swimming and sunbathing, several surf spots just a short drive away provide ideal conditions for intermediate surfers looking for a rewarding, uncrowded session.
Inland excursions add a different layer to the experience. Day trips to waterfalls like Tegenungan reveal Bali’s lush, tropical interior. The waterfall itself is surrounded by dense jungle and accessible by a short but steep path. At the base, the sound of crashing water and the cool mist create a refreshing escape from the heat. Thanks to the island’s reliable rideshare app, travelers don’t need to rent a car. Cross-island journeys can cost as little as $20. For more flexibility, hiring a private driver for the day is a popular and affordable option, often around $80.
You might be surprised by how effortlessly affordable life feels here. Some of the island’s most delicious meals—fresh, vibrant, and deeply satisfying—can be enjoyed for just a few dollars, allowing you to indulge freely without second-guessing. And affordability doesn’t mean sacrificing ambiance. One standout is Le Bleu, a beachfront restaurant where guests dine in private cabanas nestled in the sand. With the ocean just steps away and the sky glowing at sunset, it’s a setting that perfectly captures the island’s blend of casual elegance and coastal charm. But perhaps the true gift of Nusa Dua is the space it creates, not just physically, but emotionally. Surrounded by natural beauty and a culture rooted in ritual and mindfulness, visitors often find themselves letting go of everyday distractions. It’s a place that encourages stillness, presence, and a quiet return to self.
JULY 3RD
Town Center’s Fireworks & Freedom Concert
EDH Town Center - Steven Young Amphitheater | 6:00 PM
Get ready for the 2025 Fireworks and Freedom Concert at El Dorado Hills Town Center! This family-friendly event will feature a free concert with the amazing Big Crush Band, as well as an incredible fireworks display. Celebrate Independence Day with great music, delicious food, and the best pyrotechnics in the area! edhtowncenter.com
JULY 3RD - 5TH
Folsom Pro Rodeo
Dan Russell Rodeo Arena - Stafford Street, Folsom | 7:30 PM
For over 60 years, the Folsom Pro Rodeo has been a beloved tradition that honors the family cattle ranches that have created the community. Proudly PCRA-sanctioned, this event showcases the tradition and excitement of rodeo, including live music, delicious food, and a fireworks show! Visit folsomprorodeo.com for tickets.
JULY 4TH
El Dorado County Fairgrounds - 100 Placerville Drive, Placerville | 3:00 PM
Enjoy an El Dorado County tradition with live music by Locked-N-Loaded, carnival rides, and other fun kids’ activities, and of course, a fireworks show. Visit eldoradocountyfair.org for a complete list of acceptable items you are able to bring to this great event.
JULY 10TH, 17TH, & 24TH
Town Center’s Live on the Boulevard Thursday Nights
EDH Town Center - Steven Young Amphitheater | 7:00 PM
Live on the Boulevard is Town Center’s signature summer concert series, bringing the community together for free live music every Thursday evening. This month’s bands include One of These Nights (songs from the Eagles), Superbad (‘70s rock through today), and Locked Out of Heaven (a Bruno Mars tribute band). edhtowncenter.com
JULY 18TH
Hands 4 Hope’s Annual Stuff the
EDH Town Center Target parking lot | 9:00 AM
Let’s rally together as a community to support children in need across El Dorado County by helping fill their school supply lists! Stop by the big yellow bus from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. with backpacks, notebooks, and other essential supplies. Every donation, big or small, makes a meaningful difference. hands4hopeyouth.org
JULY 28TH & JULY 29TH
Miraflores Winery - 2120 Four Springs Trail, Placerville
Miraflores invites you to their highly anticipated Pairings lunches. For nearly a decade, Miraflores has hosted accomplished guest chefs to prepare creatively executed four-course menus, exquisitely paired with Miraflores wine chosen by their on-site sommelier. These lovely summer events are held outdoors under a shaded covered patio, overlooking Miraflores’ beautiful estate vineyards. Reservations: (530) 647-8505 or info@mirafloreswinery.com
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Summer is here and what better way to quench your thirst than with drinks crafted from the season’s fresh produce? Embrace the natural sweetness of sun-ripened fruits and the invigorating zest of garden-fresh herbs. From crisp berry infusions to fragrant herbal blends, enjoy the art of crafting delicious and revitalizing beverages that celebrate the fresh flavors of summer.
This sangria emphasizes fresh garden herbs and the sweetness of seasonal berries.
Ingredients:
• 1 bottle wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio or Garnacha)
• ½ cup brandy or rum
• ½ cup elderflower liqueur
• 1 cup sparkling water
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
• ½ cup fresh raspberries
• ½ cup fresh blueberries
• ¼ cup fresh mint leaves
• 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced (optional)
• 1 lime, thinly sliced
Instructions:
In a large pitcher, combine the white wine, brandy (or rum), and elderflower liqueur. Stir gently to mix. Add the sliced strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, mint leaves, rosemary sprigs, and cucumber slices to the pitcher. Gently muddle the berries and herbs slightly to release their flavors. Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld. Just before serving, add the sliced lime and sparkling water or club soda. Stir gently. Serve the sangria over ice, ensuring each glass gets a mix of fruit and herbs.
LOOKING FOR A SERENE & EASY GETAWAY?
MAKE THE SHORT, SCENIC DRIVE TO MIRAFLORES WINERY; WHERE THE OAKS MEET THE PINES.
JUST 30 MILES FROM EL DORADO HILLS!
MIRAFLORES INVITES YOU TO PARTICIPATE IN OUR HIGHLY ANTICIPATED PAIRINGS LUNCH EVENTS THIS SUMMER; SELECT WEEKENDS FROM JUNE-SEPTEMBER!
For nearly a decade, Miraflores has hosted an array of accomplished guest chefs to prepare creatively-executed four-course menus, exquisitely paired with Miraflores wine chosen by their on-site Sommelier. These lovely summer events are held outdoors under a shaded covered patio, overlooking our estate vineyards. Please see our website for all dates, menus, and details!
VOTED THE REGION’S BEST WINERY 8 YEARS RUNNING!
This cocktail balances the tartness of grapefruit, the sweetness of pear, and the distinct notes of rosemary, all brought together with a bubbly finish.
Ingredients:
• 2 oz Gin (or Vodka)
• 1.5 oz Fresh Grapefruit Juice
• 1 oz Pear Liqueur (or Pear Juice)
• 0.75 oz Fresh Lime Juice
• 1 sprig of Rosemary
• Sparkling water
• Garnish: Rosemary sprig, grapefruit slice, pear slice
Instructions:
Place the rosemary sprig in a cocktail shaker. Lightly muddle the rosemary to release its oils. Add the gin (or vodka), grapefruit juice, pear liqueur and lime juice to the shaker. Add ice. Shake well until thoroughly chilled. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice. Top with sparkling water or Prosecco. Garnish with a rosemary sprig, a grapefruit slice, and a pear slice.
A Lime Mint Rose Mojito adds a floral twist to the classic mojito, creating a refreshing and elegant cocktail. Here’s a recipe that balances the traditional lime and mint with the delicate aroma of rose.
Ingredients:
• 10 fresh mint leaves
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• 2 tablespoons white sugar (or simple syrup, to taste)
• 2 ounces white rum
• 1 ounce rose water (adjust to taste, as it can be potent)
• Club soda or sparkling water
• Garnish: Mint sprigs, lime wedges, edible rose petals (optional)
Instructions:
Muddle:
Place the mint leaves and lime wedges in a glass. Add sugar. Use a muddler to gently crush the mint and lime. Pour the white rum and rose water into the glass. Stir well. Fill the glass with ice. Top with club soda or sparkling water. Stir gently. Garnish with a mint sprig, a lime wedge, and, if desired, edible rose petals.