Elkhorn, NE August 2025 by City Lifestyle

Kids & Pets

KITCHENS

THEATERS

Little Feet, Wet Noses and Big Love

There’s a certain chaos that comes with raising kids and caring for pets, sticky fingers, muddy paws, big feelings and even bigger hearts. This month, we’re celebrating all of it in our Kids and Pets issue.

This issue is a tribute to the mess-and-magicmakers who keep our homes buzzing. Whether you're navigating toddler tantrums or introducing a new puppy to your household, we know love, laughter and a lot of patience go hand-in-hand. Or perhaps you're navigating a newly empty nest as college starts and find yourself missing a noise-filled home, and longing for tiny handprints once more.

Inside these pages, you'll find fun places to enrich your four-legged friend's day while you're busy at work, learn more about the Two Rivers Miracle League through Elkhorn Athletic Association, and how they're building an inclusive space for all kids to develop a love of the game, and find fun ways to build and capture family memories.

And of course, we couldn’t resist filling a few pages with adorable pet photos, because really, what’s better than a totally boop-able wet nose? The pages of our City Scene this month are dedicated to the pets of our partners and staff. From felines to turtles, and dogs to birds, we've got all the lovable pets.

So whether your days are filled with school runs, vet visits or snuggle sessions on the couch, we hope this issue reminds you to savor the sweetness in the chaos. After all, some of life’s best memories are made with a leash in one hand and a sippy cup in the other.

With gratitude (and maybe a little pet hair on my shirt),

STEPHANIE LEWIS, PUBLISHER @ELKHORNCITYLIFESTYLE

August 2025

PUBLISHER

Stephanie Lewis stephanie.m.lewis@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Nichole Peringer nichole.peringer@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Nichole Peringer, Christina Koch, Stephanie Lewis, Katie Currid

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Nicholas Fisher, Jennifer Studanski, Janie Jones, Katie Currid

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders

AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

LAYOUT DESIGNER Lillian Gibbs

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler

VIRGINIA

city scene

WHERE

NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Bingo, the Soul + Muse shop dog, is often found napping on the job. 2: Opie, real estate assistant to Brittney McAllister, aro Real Estate Group. 3: Winnie the Wonder Dog, snack quality control at Elkhorn City Lifestyle Magazine. 4: Rigby and Lettie, creative lighting sidekicks at Midwest Lightscaping. 5: Frank, chief mouser at Midwest Lightscaping. 6: Krispy the box turtle, courtesy of Beyond the Vine. 7: Aqua and Bubbles, from Beyond the Vine. Find them on Instagram!

JOSH REEVES

SKYE MIELKE

ROSE MCCORMICK

JOSH REEVES

BRITTNEY MCALLISTER

ROSE MCCORMICK

STEPHANIE LEWIS

8: Wizard, Frankie and Harvey with dog mom, Cali Rethwisch of the Virtue Group, and dog dad, Cody. 9: Marshall, Ruger and Roxie, spa support crew at Home Innovations Spas. 10: Chief and Bella hiking on a well-deserved break from content creation at Wurth Media. 11: Jade, black Lab of Elkhorn City Lifestyle writer Katy Spratte-Joyce, cures writer’s block in nature. 12: Ruby and Tucker support Elizabeth Flaspohler, writer for Elkhorn City Lifestyle. 13: Ori, assistant landscape artist extraordinaire at Sun Valley Landscaping. 14: Maddox, always well-dressed, supports the Kimberly Cahoy Design team.

ELIZABETH FLASPOHLER

CALI RETHWISCH

ASHLEY PALADINO

KATY SPRATTE - JOYCE

KAREN BARR

KIMBERLY CAHOY

Behind each of our 200+ City Lifestyle magazines is someone who cares deeply about their community. Someone who connects people, celebrates businesses, and shares the stories that matter most. What if that someone was you?

Or maybe it’s someone you know. If this isn’t the right time for you, but you know someone who could be the perfect fit, we’d love an introduction.

20: Beau, photo editor at Jennifer Studanski Photography. 21: Denali, lighting director at Jennifer Studanski Photography.

15: Ella and Kleo, editorial support to Elkhorn City Lifestyle writer Haley Gosch. 16: Bingo and Cruz offer lap (or nap) support for Christina Koch, Elkhorn City Lifestyle writer. 17: Paco, best friend and muse of photographer Cara Bresette-Yates. 18: Wrangler, granddog of Elkhorn City Lifestyle writer Mandee Saitta. 19: Mookie, model dog at Jennifer Studanski Photography.

JENNIFER STUDANSKI

HALEY GOSCH

JENNIFER STUDANSKI

MANDEE SAITTA

CHRISTINA KOCH

JENNIFER STUDANSKI

CARA BRESETTE-YATES

22: Winry, administrative assistant to photographer Jennifer Studanski. 23: These ladies egg-cel at brightening Elkhorn City Lifestyle editor Nichole Peringer’s day. 24: Lifestyle interns: Poppy edits with attitude, while Stewie fetches coffee, then spills it.

JENNIFER STUDANSKI

NICHOLE PERINGER

STEPHANIE LEWIS

Birthdays are a BIG deal at Spare Time Omaha

At Spare Time, birthdays are a BIG deal. With four epic packages to choose from and customize, you can craft your custom event and prepare to make memories.

All packages include hand-tossed pizza, soft drinks, celebratory place settings and a dedicated party host to set up, clean up and ensure your event runs smoothly.

For details, visit: www.sparetime entertainment.com/omaha/birth day-parties/. Mention this ad and receive the birthday child free.

Lifespan Counseling now hiring behavioral health providers

Are you a talented behavioral health clinician looking to be part of a grow ing team with an optimized clinician experience? Lifespan Counseling is hiring licensed therapists and psychiatric providers to work in its central Omaha and Elkhorn offices. Whether you’re looking to serve chil dren, teens or adults, they have you covered with a range of patients and needs. Visit mental-health-careers

AUGUST 15- SEPT 1

U-Pick Sunflowers 15+ Sunflower Varieties Sunflower Maze Butterfly Releases Stunning Photo Spots Rise & Bloom Sunrise Sessions

Beyond the Vine Flowers and Home Decor is celebrating 40 years of design and beauty in homes and businesses across Omaha and beyond. In celebration of this milestone, enjoy 40% off an item of your choice during August.

A League

ARTICLE BY NICHOLE PERINGER PHOTOGRAPHY BY ELKHORN ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION

Elkhorn Athletic Association’s Two Rivers Miracle League Makes Sports Accessible

of Their Own

Nestled at the center of the First Interstate SportsPlex in Valley, Nebraska, lies a field of dreams, an adaptive sports field built on the conviction that sports should be for everyone. The Elkhorn Athletic Association (EAA), a leading nonprofit in the Omaha metro area, is turning this vision into reality through the Two Rivers Miracle League, a groundbreaking program designed for athletes with physical, sensory or intellectual challenges. Leading this effort is Josh Todd, EAA’s director of development, whose passion for inclusivity drives the organization’s mission to ensure no child or adult is sidelined from the joy of sports.

EAA’S LEGACY OF COMMUNITY AND GROWTH

Founded in 2015 through the merger of four local sports organizations, EAA has grown over the past decade, now serving 8,300 kids across 10 sports, including baseball, soccer, football, volleyball, basketball and track and field. Participants come from 76 ZIP codes across the Omaha metro, reflecting the organization’s broad reach.

“What makes EAA special is that it’s community-based,” Todd says. “From our home office in Elkhorn, we offer recreational programs, camps and select teams.”

EAA’s commitment to inclusion goes beyond its diverse offerings. The organization provides financial aid to ensure cost is never a barrier to any child.

“Over the last three years, we’ve given six-figure aid packages,” Todd notes. “We want every kid to have the chance to play, regardless of their family’s financial situation.”

This dedication is evident in the development of the First Interstate SportsPlex, a 90-acre complex that serves as a hub for community sports. At its heart is the Boystown Pediatrics Adaptive Sports Field, a state-ofthe-art facility designed specifically for athletes of all abilities.

The adaptive field features a hard surface for gameplay, accommodating wheelchairs and other mobility aids, along with spacious dugouts and wide entryways for easy access.

“These features make our field truly adaptive,” Todd explains. “It’s designed to remove barriers and create an environment where everyone can play.”

The field represents EAA’s broader mission to foster inclusivity and ensure sports are a unifying force for all.

THE TWO RIVERS MIRACLE LEAGUE

Launched on Father’s Day 2025, the Two Rivers Miracle League is Nebraska’s second Miracle League, inspired by Bruce Froendt’s All Play Miracle League in central Omaha. Froendt’s program, which serves about 400 athletes weekly at Seymour Smith Park, highlighted the demand for accessible sports in the region.

Boystown Pediatrics Adaptive Sports Field ensures every athlete, regardless of challenges, can play and belong.

Athletes of all abilities find joy, belonging and the thrill of sports at Two Rivers Miracle League.

“IT’S ABOUT PARENTS SEEING THEIR KIDS’ EYES LIGHT UP FOR THE FIRST TIME, FEELING SEEN AND HEARD. THAT’S WHAT

THIS IS ALL ABOUT.”

Recognizing families from western Douglas County were traveling long distances to participate, Todd saw the need for a local option. The Two Rivers Miracle League debuted with four teams playing modified three-inning softball games where every athlete bats and scores.

“It’s all about having fun,” Todd says. “There are no wins or losses.”

The league’s impact is deeply personal. Todd shared the story of a 22-year-old woman with severe autism, the daughter of an EAA founding board member, who never had the chance to play as a child.

“Seeing her smile when she told her dad she’s finally getting to play, that moment will always stick with me,” he says.

For many athletes, the league offers not just a game but a sense of belonging and community they’ve never experienced before.

THE MAN BEHIND THE MISSION

Josh Todd, who joined EAA two years ago, brings 20 years of experience in sports management and a lifelong passion for inclusion. Growing up in Tempe, Arizona, he attended a unified school “before that was even a thing,” he recalls. There, he formed friendships with peers from all walks of life. Reflecting on that time, Todd says, “Those kids made my life richer and more fun.”

“I do this because it’s fun and incredibly meaningful,” he says. “The impact EAA has on kids and families is an honor to witness.”

Todd prefers to work behind the scenes, focusing on community engagement and fundraising to support EAA’s initiatives. His vision for the Two Rivers Miracle League includes doubling the number of

“It’s about fun, inclusion and seeing every athlete’s eyes light up,” says EAA’s Josh Todd.

teams next year and enhancing the adaptive field with amenities like increased shade, ensuring a more comfortable experience for families.

LOOKING AHEAD

EAA’s commitment to “sports for all” is more than a slogan; it’s a mission lived out daily by its dedicated team. The Two Rivers Miracle League embodies this ethos, offering athletes with challenges the opportunity to experience the thrill of hitting a ball, rounding the bases and celebrating with teammates.

“It’s about parents seeing their kids’ eyes light up for the first time, feeling seen and heard,” Todd says. “That’s what this is all about.”

As EAA looks to the future, the focus remains on expanding the league and enhancing its facilities to serve even more athletes. The organization’s work is a testament to the power of community, inclusion and the belief that sports can transform lives.

To learn more about the Two Rivers Miracle League, visit elkhornathletics.org.

E l i t e A e s t h e t i c s

N e u r o t o x i n S k i n P e n

D e r m a l F i l l e r

C o o l P e e l C O 2

P e p t i d e s

BY JACKIE

C h e m i c a l P e e l

( 4 0 2 ) 6 2 8 - 7 9 7 1 e l i t e a e s t h e t i c s b y j a c k i e c o m 1

PUPPY LOVE

luxury dog resort offers daycare, boarding, grooming, all-natural treats and more.

The Paw Spa Pet Resort Offers Luxury Pet Care With a Personal Touch

ARTICLE BY CHRISTINA KOCH

PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICHOLAS FISHER

Sheila Irish has never met a stranger, human or canine. As owner of and customer service aficionado for The Paw Spa Pet Resort, she meets her clients at the resort’s door with a boisterous laugh and personal greeting while exciting their dogs for the fun experience ahead.

This

“I built this place with my heart and soul; I wanted it to be the best place for dogs because they're family.”

“It’s all very personalized here,” Irish says. “I think that helps people feel comfortable when dropping their babies off.”

Any pet owner can attest, leaving a pet to go on vacation isn’t easy, and finding care that is trustworthy and nurturing can be even more difficult. The Paw Spa Pet Resort was established in 2012 because Irish couldn’t find a boarder she was comfortable with for her own dogs when going on vacation.

“I decided to buy this piece of land and build a boarding facility from scratch,” Irish recalls. “I traveled to different states’ facilities and chose the best bits and pieces from each one and put it all into this facility. I built this place with my full heart and soul; I wanted it to be the best place for dogs because they’re our family.”

The result is a luxury dog resort offering daycare, boarding and grooming, as well as a gift shop carrying the latest dog toys and bakery offering all-natural treats and CBD for stress. The facility features 54-square-foot suites with Kuranda beds, an expansive indoor play area, a unique indoor bone-shaped pool for the doggy paddlers, as well as 6,000 square feet of outdoor play space. Dog parents can view their pets via webcam anytime on the resort’s website, thepawspapetresort.com.

In addition, Irish installed a state-of-the-art air exchanger on the facility’s roof to completely change out the resort’s air four times per hour.

“There are different airborne diseases dogs can get,” Irish explains. “We have had very, very few cases in the years I’ve been open.”

Sheila Irish handpicked all 23 of her employees to ensure top-quality service.

Bottom: Pups enjoy a splash in the one-of-a-kind indoor bone-shaped pool.

Another way Irish mitigates the transmission of disease is strict requirements for enrollment.

“We’ve turned people away because no dog can come here without every single shot,” she notes. “When someone makes an appointment, we call their vet to verify the dog’s health. I must protect the dogs that are here.”

Dogs in the resort’s care are treated with the TLC they’d receive at home, especially those four-legged friends with special needs.

“Dogs with special needs come in for a free day of daycare to ensure we can handle their needs,” Irish explains. “If we cannot, we’ll refer them to a vet for boarding. However, we accept dogs with many types of special needs. We administer medication for no extra charge, and we’ll follow special diets and feeding instructions.”

Because Irish wants to offer the best service, she personally chose each of her 23 employees.

“Everybody here loves dogs; they all own dogs, and they can bring their dogs to work for free,” she says. “My employees know every dog when they walk in and that makes a difference to a pet owner. We love these dogs up, which makes the dogs and owners feel good.”

The quality of Irish’s staff, each of whom is trained for two weeks before being left alone with dogs, ensures minimal problems with pets. But when a dog is naughty, Irish believes in talking about the issue immediately.

“When someone walks in, I want them to feel like they and their dogs are a part of this family and know that I will go to the ends of the Earth for their animals.”

“I think when you pick up your kid from school and you’re handed a naughty report, it’s not very personal. I make sure we talk to the dog parents and let them know about the situation so we can handle it together,” she says.

Three full-time groomers and a bather who works three days per week ensure grooming appointments are easily made. In fact, the groomers will provide walk-in nail trims to clients.

“Like everything else, our grooming services are tailored to your dog,” Irish notes. “If your dog requires a one-hour groom, you’re here for a one-hour appointment, or you pick up at the end of that hour. If your dog needs a two-hour groom, like the doodles and bigger dogs, then it’s a two-hour groom, period.”

Irish’s dedication to personal experiences extends to her staff, whom she refers to as family. Each employee is offered a 401(k) plan.

“My high schoolers move on, go to college, but they come back to work in the summer and over holidays and can continue their 401(k), even though they’re seasonal,” she explains.

Irish notes caring for her employees has helped with her business’s growth, as has Google, social media and word of mouth.

“I think the way we treat people, the way we treat their dogs, makes such a difference,” Irish says. “When someone walks in, I want them to feel like they and their dogs are a part of this family and know that I will go to the ends of the Earth for their animals.”

MERAKI

The Heart and Soul Behind Jennifer Studanski Photography

ARTICLE BY NICHOLE PERINGER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNIFER STUDANSKI

Jennifer Studanski never set out to build an award-winning photography business. She didn’t imagine her photos would one day hang in homes across the Omaha metro, or that she would become such a beloved part of the community.

But after 30 years in business, her work speaks for itself. What makes Studanski’s photography special is the heart and soul she pours into every session and every shot.

EARLY BEGINNINGS

It all started with a Minolta. In the early 1990s, Studanski was a stay-at-home mom looking for an affordable way to capture special moments. The answer came in the form of a vintage camera her father gave her one morning.

Retelling the story, Studanski laughs. “My father had this film camera that was so old. Mind you, he didn’t get an answering machine until 2012, so he couldn’t figure it out and didn’t want to. So he handed it over to me,” she says. “The rest is history.”

Learning that camera set her up for success, though the process was tough at first. “The first few rolls of film were atrocious,” she says. “I am a very visual learner. Every time I took a picture, I would make a mental note of where I was, the lighting, and how my camera was set,” Studanski says. “The hardest part is that with film, you don’t know what the picture will look like until it’s processed. It took me about six months before my photos were even identifiable, and a few more before I got a shot I thought was good.” She adds, “From then on, I had hope and motivation to keep going.”

TRANSITION TO A PROFESSIONAL CAREER

Studanski’s children were her first subjects. As a mother of four, photography became a way to capture important milestones. While family was her priority, she also had another reason to hone her skills: her middle daughter’s autism.

“With Ashley’s diagnosis, it was incredibly challenging to take her somewhere unfamiliar and expect her to sit for photos,” she says. “Photography gave me a way to capture my family in a setting comfortable for her.”

Word spread that Studanski had a talent for photography, and requests soon began coming in.

“A lot of the work I did for free at first,” she recalls. “Eventually, I started getting referrals from people I didn’t know. It was gradual, and I took things slow.”

In 2019, she resigned from her accounting position and launched her photography business full time.

“My kids were older and mostly out of the house, and it felt like the right time to be brave and jump in,” she says.

FAITH AND PHILOSOPHY

Studanski’s faith plays a central role in how she approaches her work.

“I have a lot of faith. It’s my foundation,” she says. “It was scary knowing I wouldn’t have a consistent paycheck at first. But the promise I have in God is that He will always be with me.”

She credits her faith with inspiring her to find beauty in everyday moments.

“You see that beauty, you capture it, then present it. It becomes something to marvel at later,” she says.

JENNIFER STUDANSKI

JENNIFERSTUDANSKIPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

Jennifer Studanski is passionate about capturing all of life's authentic moments. From weddings, engagements and intimate elopements to senior portraits, headshots or lifestyle sessions, Jennifer is available to shoot on-site, or in studio. Or, better yet, let her show you some of the best hidden gems around the Omaha metro. Visit jenniferstudanskiphotography.com to learn more.

“You see that beauty, you capture it, then present it. It becomes something to marvel at later.”

One of her favorite parts of the job is scouting locations others might dismiss. Recently, she took a senior client to a dilapidated barn near her property. The client was unsure at first but thrilled with the results.

“She kept thanking me for the idea because the photos turned out so great,” Studanski says. Her talent extends to photographing people. “There’s a way to pose people to capture their best,” she says. “I’ve learned how to have a woman sit, stand, and place her arms.”

Hearing from brides who are surprised by how beautiful they look remains a highlight. “Each bride deserves to look her best,” Studanski says.

CONCLUSION

Meraki is a Greek word that means doing something with soul, creativity and love, putting everything you have into your work.

It’s no surprise that this word defines Jennifer Studanski’s philosophy. With deep intention, Studanski pours her heart and soul into her photography. That is what truly sets her apart. The results speak for themselves. From lighting to angles to finishing touches, it is clear she is guided by something greater. That force has led her to unforgettable moments and given her the ability to see and capture beauty in a way entirely her own.

Frios Gourmet Pops

Frios Gourmet Pops Omaha is delighting the community with its hand-poured, gourmet ice cream and fruit pops, served from a colorful, tie-dyed “Sweet Ride” van. Locally owned by the Alford family, the mobile dessert business has quickly become a favorite at parties, events and pop-ups. Frios offers a wide variety of unique, allergy-friendly flavors made with real ingredients and no artificial additives.

“Our pops bring joy wherever we go,” says co-owner Liz Alford. “It’s fun, family-friendly, and it’s been amazing to see people of all ages light up when they see the van roll in.”

Frios is delivering “Happiness on a Stick” all over Omaha. From graduations, parties, weddings or corporate events, they've got you covered. Visit friosomaha.com to book the Sweet Ride for your next event!

Serving up “happiness on a stick” in Omaha

Top Left: Chris and Liz Alford, owners of Frios Gourmet Pops

Middle: The "Sweet Ride" van is a hit at events with its tye-dye exterior and sweet interior.

Top Right: Unique flavors range from Pink Lemonade to Fruity Pebbles and Root Beer Float.

Bottom Left: Strawberry Mango Prosecco

AUGUST 2025

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

JULY 31ST - AUGUST 3RD

Santa Lucia Festival

10th and William streets, Omaha

Dive into Omaha’s Little Italy for a fun-filled festival celebrating Italian culture and history. Enjoy authentic Italian eats, live music and activities the whole family will love. It’s a perfect way to experience tradition and good times together! For more information, visit: www.santaluciafestival.com.

AUGUST 1ST - 3RD

Watermelon Fest at

Nelson Produce Farm

10505 N. 234th St., Valley

Come beat the heat at the Watermelon Festival, right here on one of the Midwest’s largest watermelon farms. You can enjoy fresh watermelon slushies available only during the festival, join in on the watermelon eating contest and even try watermelon skiing. Yes, it’s real and seriously fun. With more than six varieties of watermelon plus cantaloupe, you can eat all you want! Grab tickets and details at nelsonproducefarm.com/ watermelon-fest.

AUGUST 2ND

MAHA Festival

800 Douglas St., Omaha

Omaha’s favorite music festival is back and bigger than ever, now at a new location! Don’t miss legendary alt-rock band Pixies, Grammy-nominated Waxahatchee, Band of Horses, Silversun Pickups, Magdalena Bay and hometown heroes Little Brazil. It’s a lineup you won’t want to miss! For tickets and more information, visit: mahafestival.com.

AUGUST 4TH - 10TH

Pinnacle Bank Golf Championship

The Club at Indian Creek 3825 N. 202nd St., Elkhorn

Come to Omaha to watch top-level golf at the Pinnacle Bank Championship, part of the PGA TOUR’s Korn Ferry Tour. It’s a fun event the whole family can enjoy! For more information, visit thepinnaclebankchampionship.com.

AUGUST 15TH - 16TH

Nebraska Balloon & Wine Festival

Ta-Ha-Zouka Park, 905 Elkhorn Dr., Elkhorn

The Nebraska Balloon & Wine Festival is your chance to taste award-winning wines, watch hot air balloons launch and glow, weather permitting, and enjoy delicious food, live entertainment and more. Free parking is available. For more information, visit showofficeonline.com/Nebraska WineBalloon.

AUGUST 15TH - SEPTEMBER 1ST

Sunflower Fest at Nelson Produce Farm

10505 N. 234th St., Valley

Say goodbye to summer and hello to fall at the Sunflower Festival, featuring more than 300,000 sunflowers by the Elkhorn River. Enjoy U-pick fields with 15 varieties, a sunflower maze, butterfly releases and photo-perfect spots. Don’t miss the limited “Rise & Bloom” sunrise sessions. Celebrate the season’s beauty with unforgettable golden moments.For tickets and more information, visit nelsonproducefarm.com/ sunflower-fest.

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

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.

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.

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.

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!