Johnson County, KS July 2021

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

JULY 2021 PUBLISHER

Matthew Perry | matthew@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR

Letter from the Editor SUMMER IS IN FULL SWING AND THE JULY HEAT IS COMING ON STRONG. After a year of “staying in,” our jam-packed summer schedule of baseball games, early morning sports conditioning, camps, outings and traveling is refreshing. It feels so good to be back at it, even though there were some great lessons learned in being still as a family and enjoying the slower pace.

Angela Broockerd | angela.broockerd@lifestylepubs.com SALES DIRECTOR

Justin Stoltman | justin.stoltman@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER

Matthew Endersbe L AYO UT DESIGNER

Kelsey Proctor CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Although the “lazy days of summer” doesn’t seem to exist in our house right now, we

Angela Broockerd, Riley Cowing, Allison Gibeson, Judy Goppert, Lisa Moyer, LeAnn Parker, Allison Swan,

have learned to be more content with the downtime and simple pleasures that remind

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

me of my own childhood. The extravagant outings aren’t as important to check off

Janie Jones

the summer bucket list as just time spent with the people most important in our lives.

Cookouts and gatherings with friends and family is what I have missed most this past year, so we are soaking up as much of it as we can to make up for lost time.

In this issue we wanted to share summer entertaining tips and recipes for summer get-togethers, so we enlisted the help of local culinary expert, Lauren Lane as well as the creative genius, LeAnn Parker. We also wanted to highlight some of my favorite local spots to cool off, great locations to enjoy a picnic or spend time with family.

I hope your summer is filled with moments of relaxation, fun and quality time with the ones you love that creates cherished memories.

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

Angela Broockerd, Editor

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Angela.Broockerd@LifestylePubs.com

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CityLifestyle.com/JohnsonCounty ON THE COVER Watermelon Cake

by LeAnn Parker 4

Johnson County Lifestyle | July 2021

Proverbs 3:5-6 Johnson County Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Johnson County area’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 Johnson County Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

INSIDE THE ISSUE JULY 2021

FEATURES 16 Art as Escape Local artist Seth Smith’s paintings are travel inspired. Although COVID-19 impacted travel, Smith found the last year to be important for him creatively.

22 Backyard Entertaining with Lauren Lane Culinarian

32 Enjoying Summer Making summer memories in your own backyard

22 32

38 Enjoy Pure Food + Drink Clean, plant-rich and nutritious food made easy

16

38

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Local Experiences

12

Healthy Lifestyle

16

Artist’s Palette

22 Culinary Creations 38 Hot Spot 44 Road Trip 47 Realty Report 48 Travel Destination

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LOCAL EXPERIENCES

SUMMER ADVENTURE SUMMERTIME IS THE PERFECT OPPORTUNITY FOR ADVENTURE! School is out, the weather is warm and we have vacation time to spend with our families. Make the most of this summer by exploring all our community has to offer. From the best spots to have a picnic to the perfect places to cool off in the water, there’s plenty of fun summertime activities to do as a family. Seize this season of adventure and make some memories!

BEST PICNIC SPOTS + Pack a picnic and enjoy the amenities at Sar-Ko- Par Trails Park such as the Legler Barn Museum, a pond, and a disc golf course.

14915 W 87th St Pkwy, Lenexa, KS + Kingston Lake Park has plenty of space and shade for a family picnic while enjoying the view of the lake.

15254 Lowell Overland Park, Kansas 66223 + South Lake Park is a casual picnic setting full of outdoor activities that includes fishing, a playground, a loop-trail and areas to relax in the shade.

7601 W. 86th St. Overland Park, Kansas 66212 + Black Hoof Park offers picnic shelters, a unique spillway, several miles of trails through wooded areas, a lake, and fun natural play areas for children.

9053 Monticello Rd, Lenexa, KS + Antioch Park, a Johnson County treasure, includes two lakes, walking paths, tennis courts, picnic shelters, basketball court the historic Dodge Town play area, and playground.

6501 Antioch Road Merriam, KS 66202 8

Johnson County Lifestyle | July 2021

scan for more photos & the full list

WATERY WAYS TO STAY COOL

Donna Daugherty

+ There are countless ways to enjoy Shawnee Mission Lake during hot summer days from fishing to paddle boarding to enjoying the sand beach.

7900 Renner Rd, Shawnee, KS 66217 + Enjoy the swim beach at Lake Olathe that features locker rooms, outdoor showers, vending machines and a floating obstacle course – The Aqua Park.

S Lakeshore Dr Olathe, KS + Sapling Grove Park is a 20-acre neighborhood park with a splash pad, picnic tables, playground and historical walking trail.

8210 Grant Overland Park, Kansas 66204 + Spend a day walking the trails, playing frisbee golf or enjoying this 40-acre lake at Heritage Park Lake.

16050 Pflumm Rd, Olathe, KS 66062

scan for more photos & the full list

+ Clinton Lake, nestled on the outskirts of Lawrence, boasts a pristine sand beach, camp grounds, boat rentals and hiking trails.

872 North 1402 Road, Lawrence, KS 66049

SUMMER ACTIVITIES FOR FAMILIES + Discover the new outdoor amphitheater at Ernie Miller Park on Friday evenings this summer for entertainment and enjoy the beautiful trails.

909 N. Highway 7 Olathe, KS 66061 + Bring the whole family for a morning of shopping local vendors at the Overland Park Farmers Market.

8101 Marty St, Overland Park + Strang Hall is a collective of six chef-driven restaurants under one roof with a great outdoor lawn space for the community to enjoy.

7313 W 80th St, Overland Park + Visit the Deanna Rose Children's Farmstead to see over 250 animals and birds, experience a Kanza Indian encampment, horse back riding and fishing pond.

13800 Switzer Overland Park, KS 66221 + Take a walk in the woods at The Overland Park Arboretum and

Julie Burton

scan for more photos & the full list

Botanical Gardens and enjoy sculptures, fairy houses, the Train Garden and much more.

8909 W. 179th St., Overland Park, KS 66013 CityLifestyle.com/JohnsonCounty

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Tired of everyone asking "What's for dinner?"

KC'S ULTIMATE

FAMILY-STYLE MEAL KITS TAKE THE NIGHT OFF AND SUPPORT LOCAL BY ORDERING FOR YOUR FAMILY + FRIENDS!

Take a picture of me to see options from all of our fave spots!

HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

ARTICLE JUDY GOPPERT PHOTOGRAPHY JANIE JONES

Local runner has stepped up to the challenge of s tay i n g f i t.

JUSTIN KNAPP SEES HIS FITNESS JOURNEY AS A WAY TO MOTIVATE OTHERS WHILE IMPROVING HIMSELF.

SOMETIMES A FIRE CAN BE LIT INSIDE US WHEN WE LEAST EXPECT IT. That is what happened to Justin Knapp. When he ruptured two discs in his lower back in his early twenties, he went to a chiropractor in an attempt to get his back strengthened up.

“I was out of shape and needed motivation,” he says. “Before my 30th birthday, my brother challenged me to a Warrior Dash, which is a 5K obstacle course.

I hadn’t run since high school, but I couldn’t let my older brother win! So, we purchased a used treadmill off Craigslist and started to run. At first, I could barely run for a minute, but with the determination to beat my brother, I was able to make it to the 3.1-mile distance.

Yes, I did beat him!”

He admits to not always being an active person, but that race sparked a fire in him, so he looked up local running clubs and found the Olathe Running Club (ORC). There, he met some amazing people who motivated him even more. He signed up for races and eventually ran a marathon. Desiring more from running, he met a gentleman named Gary Scott, who is a local legend for Streak Running, which means you run at least one mile every day for as long as you can.

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Johnson County Lifestyle | July 2021

Justin Knapp

Justin Knapp

“I started my own Running Streak December 26,

before we start every run which helps set the

2014. Since then, I have run at least one mile every

mood of the run. It’s not a big group, but we have

single day. My average daily mileage over the length

all played important parts in each other’s running

of my streak is 3.9 miles per day,” he says.

journeys. We’ve trained for 5K’s, 10K’s and half

Now at almost 40 years old, he is married to his

marathons together.”

middle school sweetheart, Randi, a teacher in Olathe.

Justin has found he enjoys motivating others to

They have three children, Nevaeh, 15, Hayden, 12

achieve their fitness goals. He suggests that anyone

and Ava, 6. All have run with him at different points.

who wants to start their fitness journey, simply lace

His wife is currently on a fitness journey of her own.

up those shoes and step out the door. Once you’ve

“Sometimes, my kids ride their bikes on my runs,

done that, your journey has begun.

and honestly, I would not be able to run as much

“Find a local running club near your house or in

without my wife and kids supporting me like they

your city. It can be scary to go to a running club if

do,” he says and smiles.

you don’t see yourself as a runner. But everyone

His goal with his running streak is to go as long as

starts somewhere. Most people in running groups

he can. He is getting close to 10,000 miles over the

were not collegiate athletes. They were people start-

life of his streak.

ing off where they were. No matter your age and no

In May of 2013, he decided to start a running

matter your health level,” he says.

group called Running Arrows Out to help motivate people as he was motivated. It is a faith-based run-

TO CONNECT WITH JUSTIN, VISIT:

ning group where each runner invests in the people

Garmin Connect – Just”streak”in

they are running with. “

Instagram - just_streak_in

“We call them Meaningful Miles,” he says. “It’s like therapy while you’re running. We say a prayer

Facebook - Running Arrows out Instagram - running_arrows_out

w e h av e a l l p l ay e d i m p o r tant parts in each other’s running journeys. We’ve trained for 5K’s, 10K’s and h a l f m a r at h o n s t o g e t h e r .”

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Johnson County Lifestyle | July 2021

A R T

ARTIST’S PALETTE

ART AS ESCAPE SETH SMITH’S PAINTINGS FEATURE SCENES OF AN EMPTY POOL OR THE FRONT OF AN INN THAT ONE MIGHT SEE OFF A HIGHWAY EXIT ON A ROAD TRIP. His work, a style he describes as escapism, is travel inspired. Although the COVID-19 pandemic impacted travel—Smith found the last year to be an important year for him creatively.

“Each painting or commission has been a lifeline, since we have all been cut off from travelling and connecting,” he says. “I was able to wander certain

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Johnson County Lifestyle | July 2021

LOCAL ARTIST SETH SMITH’S PAINTINGS ARE TRAVEL INSPIRED

areas, but that freedom and wanderlust being denied was a terrible thing for many. I had to really be present with the compositions and savor each one because they were my only source of escape and stillness in an otherwise scary

ARTICLE RILEY COWING PHOTOGRAPHY JANIE JONES

and depressing year.”

He started creating at a young age, but a trip to Albuquerque, N.M. at 15 years old shifted his focus.

“The art and colors there at the time were really abstract and colorful,” he describes. “Many Native American artists using vivid, textured oil paints and negative space…It was like nothing I had seen before, and it really spoke to me.

It was expressive, sublime, dark and mysterious. I was hooked and wanted to know more and research everything I could about those painters.”

CONTINUED >

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From early 2000 until about 2012, he primarily painted in an abstract style. The work from that period for him was more about enjoying the act of painting. While he had a consistent desire to paint “things,” a lack of experience or insecurity held Smith back from taking the leap to do it and showing the work— until a trip to the Florida Keys in 2010.

“I watched a palm shadow move across a bright blue motel door for about an hour,” he recalls. “I had a revelation about what really mattered to me about making art, and I immediately decided it was time to change.”

Around the time his first child was born, Smith says he was worried he would never get to travel or feel the same freedom while on the road, which inspired something different in his art.

“One night I went into the studio and started to paint a scene that made me feel an escape, a vacation in my mind,” he says. “The calm stillness of shadow and light, the warmth and cool, time passing slowly and purposefully. These things calmed me and took me to a place I needed to be.”

He draws inspiration for his current pieces from places like Southern California, Florida Keys and from mid-century modern architecture. He uses vintage vacation photos, old postcards and travel brochures to find color palettes. He considers painting itself to be the easy part, the challenge is finding what to paint.

“Not all of my stuff is on the nose sunny warm pool scenes. I’m really just looking for moments to interpret,” he says. “Moments that make me pause. Dramatic shadows and searing light that happen for a split second.”

To view more of Smith’s work, visit http://www.sethsmithstudio.com/

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Johnson County Lifestyle | July 2021

C R E A T E

ARTIST’S PALETTE (CONTINUED)

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Johnson County Lifestyle | July 2021

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CULINARY CREATIONS PHOTOGRAPHY JANIE JONES

WITH LAUREN LANE CULINARIAN

22

Johnson County Lifestyle | July 2021

summer entertaining

LAUREN LANE WANTS TO INTRODUCE YOU TO STRESS-FREE COOKING AND EFFORT-

Tomato Peach Burrata Salad YIELD: Serves 6

LESS ENTERTAINING BY SHARING MANY OF THE STRATEGIES, TIPS AND TRICKS SHE’S

INGREDIENTS

DISCOVERED FROM HER OWN IMPERFECT

+ A few big pinches of Kosher salt

PATH TO COOKING AND ENTERTAINING.

+ Freshly ground black pepper

Lauren’s 25 years with Hallmark Cards in brand

+ 1 teaspoon dried oregano or 2 teaspoons fresh oregano

strategy and visual design inform her tablescapes,

+ 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

plating, and entertaining vibes. At age 50, she left

+ 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

the corporate world to pursue her dream of teaching

+ 2 large heirloom tomatoes or large plum tomatoes, or cherry tomatoes.

others how to cook and entertain. Lauren now works

(about 2 1/2 pounds total)

with companies to help bring visibility to their brands

+ Two peaches

through Influencer Marketing, recipe development

+ 8 ounces mozzarella pearls or small balls

and photography. Lauren also offers cooking classes

+ 4 ounces burrata cheese

and private dinners. After one visit to her blog or

+ 1/4 cup torn fresh basil leaves plus additional whole leaves for garnish

social media you will be inspired to follow along and share your table with family and friends.

INSTRUCTIONS + Combine salt through olive oil. + Place the burrata cheese round on a platter. Arrange the tomatoes, peaches and mozzarella balls around cheese. + Drizzle with dressing from bowl. Sprinkle with more salt and pepper.

Garnish with additional basil leaves and serve.

CONTINUED >

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CULINARY CREATIONS (CONTINUED) INSTRUCTIONS + Spoon the hummus into a serving bowl. Using your spoon, make a few swirls on the top. + In medium bowl, toss toppings together. Add a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss well to combine. + Drizzle hummus with olive oil and top with the dressed toppings. Serve with pita chips and/or veggies for dipping.

Grilled Corn Salad YIELD: Serves 4-6 INGREDIENTS + 2 ears corn, grilled and cut from the cob + 1 small shallot, thinly sliced into rings + 1/4 cup fresh feta or goat cheese, crumbled + 3 sprigs basil, leaves removed and torn + 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil + 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar + Black pepper to taste + Jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional) INSTRUCTIONS + Place corn kernels into a bowl with the rest of the ingredients and stir to combine. + Taste, and re-season with salt, pepper, and vinegar to taste.

Steak with Chimichurri Sauce YIELD: Makes about 1 cup INGREDIENTS + 1 cup (packed) fresh Italian parsley + 1/2 cup olive oil + 1/3 cup red wine vinegar + 1/4 cup (packed) fresh cilantro (optional) + 2 garlic cloves, peeled + 3/4 teaspoon dried crushed red pepper + 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin + 1/2 teaspoon salt STEAK

Hummus with Toppings

+ 1 ½-2 pounds flank steak, or steak of choice. I use grassfed beef from KC local Salt Creek Farms.

YIELD: Serves 6-8

PREPARATION INGREDIENTS

+ Make sauce: Puree all ingredients in processor. Transfer

+ Your favorite store-bought hummus, or make my recipe @

to bowl. (Can be made 2 hours ahead. Cover and let stand

Lauren-Lane.com

at room temperature.)

+ Topping Options: 1 small zucchini or a few radishes, thinly sliced

+ Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Sear steak for 6-8

+ 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered

minutes on each side until heavily browned on the outside

+ 1 handful watercress or microgreens

and slightly pink in the middle.

+ Additional topping ideas: fresh basil, crumbled feta cheese, 1/2

+ Thinly slice steak across the grain and top with

cup toasted pine nuts or capers

Chimichurri sauce.

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Johnson County Lifestyle | July 2021

Pitcher Vodka Lemonade YIELD: Makes six cocktails

INSTRUCTIONS + Make the lemonade or pour store-bought in a pitcher. + Add vodka and lemon slices (can be made the day before).

INGREDIENTS

+ To serve: pour cocktail over ice and garnish with fresh mint.

+ 48 ounces homemade lemonade (or store-bought) + 12 ounces vodka

FOLLOW LAUREN LANE CULINARIAN AT:

+ Ice, for serving

Blog: Lauren-Lane.com

+ 1 lemon, sliced thinly

Instagram: Lauren_Lane_Culinarian

+ Fresh mint for garnish

Facebook: Lauren Lane Culinarian

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Finding options in senior living ANTHOLOGY OF OLATHE PROVIDES A PLACE LIKE HOME

WHEN IT COMES TIME FOR A SENIOR TO LEAVE A LONGTIME HOME AND GO SOMEWHERE WITH OPTIONS FOR CARE AND SERVICES, IT CAN BE DIFFICULT TO FIND A PLACE THAT FEELS LIKE HOME. Anthology of Olathe seeks to provide a home-like community with its range of senior living options.

The primary facility in Olathe was previously a Holiday Inn and was renovated five years ago into its current set-up. In May of last year, Anthology Senior Living, a national company that owns other senior living communities in the Kansas City area, took ownership of the facility.

They began offering assisted living, memory care and independent living at the Olathe location.

Amiee Seck, executive director, says the different levels of care they provide range from basic oversight in independent living all the way up to assisted living and memory care.

“You can age in place with us,” Amiee says. “We take a high level of care in assisted living. Even if you require some heavy care, we are able to provide that care in a home-like environment so you don’t feel like you are going into a nursing home.”

CONTINUED >

ARTICLE ALLISON GIBESON 28

Johnson County Lifestyle | July 2021

“We are a ble to prov ide that care i n a home-l i ke env i ron ment so you don’t feel l i ke you are goi ng i nto a nu rsi ng home.”

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FINDING OPTIONS IN SENIOR LIVING (CONTINUED)

Amiee says the memory care area is a small environment, and as such residents are not overwhelmed with their surroundings. In addition, she says it has a low staff-to-resident ratio, and that allows the staff to focus on getting to know the residents and their families.

In addition, they seek to meet the residents where they are at and offer unique programming that even allows the residents to relive some aspects of their lives.

The independent living facility is a free-standing building with one and two-bedroom options and meals offered a-la-cart. In addition, they offer an in-house salon, physician, and therapy.

“We have seniors in the community who are not quite ready for that assisted living, but they need some oversight and security knowing that if something were to happen, we would be there,” Aimee says.

Additionally, Anthology of Olathe is opening short-term rehab-tohome apartments to meet the needs of those transitioning between hospital and home. After hospitalizations or surgeries seniors are often not quite ready to go home even after using all their insurance-allotted time in the hospital. These apartments can help bridge that gap and provide additional time for healing and recovery.

Whatever living arrangement, residents say the connection with the people at Anthology of Olathe stands out.

“It’s that family atmosphere,” Amiee says. “They have all gotten to know each other and the staff so well.”

DeLila Offutt has lived in the independent living facility for nine months and feels at home in the community.

“I love the people,” DeLila says. “You make a connection with the staff and the other residents. I think everyone is very nice.”

She says she has a full schedule that includes Bingo, walks, scenic drives, shopping, happy hours, meals and more, with Anthology arranging all these activities. She also particularly enjoys it when they bring in outside entertainment, which often includes musicians.

“Their facilities are the latest, and they make you feel good when you walk in,” DeLila says.

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Johnson County Lifestyle | July 2021

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enjoy i n g su m mer ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY LEANN PARKER

GROWING UP, MY FAMILY SPENT LONG PORTIONS OF OUR SUMMERS AT MY GRANDPARENTS’ HOUSE ON LAKE MICHIGAN IN DOOR COUNTY, WI. It is a place where all of my good memories live. We didn’t need much entertainment and certainly didn’t have electronics back then. Our days were filled with paddling around in Opa’s worn out red canoe, painting on white rocks, fishing and exploring the great northern woods. I personally loved bird watching and documenting the song births as they built their nests, laid and hatched their eggs and finally flew away. In addition to all of our outdoor play, we would take a day to visit the art galleries where my Oma and my Aunt’s paintings were displayed.

Hopping in and out of our favorite antique stores along the way. Only slow summers allow for those sorts of things. I treasure those slow summer days.

Last year the world experienced the world’s longest summer, quite literally. My kids were home for a solid six months with nothing but nature to entertain them and while it was quite a shock, they were able to experience what slow summer days could truly be like.

Although I am so thankful that there are more things scribbled on the calendar this year, I also don’t want to lose the slowing down that we experienced last summer. I know my kids would like that too.

In the moments between fishing in our pond and swimming in the pool, our family will celebrate birthdays and have outdoor parties. True to form, I love creating something traditional in an untraditional way.

My beach ball garland is a spin off of the traditional balloon garland. Everyone uses balloon garlands… so let’s make one out of beach balls instead! Everyone serves a birthday cake… how about one carved out of a watermelon for a crazy twist?? I hope you join me in the making of these fun additions to a party!

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Johnson County Lifestyle | July 2021

BEACH BALL GARLAND Have you ever noticed that when blown up, beach balls have a little plastic loop that forms where they are blown up and sealed? It makes for the perfect place to string twine through and use as an outdoor “balloon” garland!

String it up, add some extra beach balls to the pool or yard and you have all the party decorations you need!

MATERIALS

+ 2 packs of assorted sized beach balls (assorted 20”, 16” and 12” for a total of 36)

+ 1 pack of mini beach balls (5” sized, total of 25) + Thin rope or twine + Air pump INSTRUCTIONS 1. Using an air pump, blow up all the beach balls... It takes a while!

2. Arrange inflated beach balls in a line on the ground, alternating sizes as you go.

3. Starting on one end, thread your string or twine through the blow loop of each beach ball until you reach the end.

4. Tie each end of your beach ball garland to a post or tack to a wall.

CONTINUED >

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ENJOYING SUMMER (CONTINUED)

*Underwater photo credit goes to my lovely friend and talented photographer, Cherish Smith @cherishandrea.

Watermelon Cake A cake that you could eat for breakfast! Made only of fruit and (if you want to go real crazy) some fresh mint and whipped cream too. A few years ago we started making watermelon cakes for our summer birthday celebrations due to one of our little ones suffering from food allergies. In order to make a cake that even she could enjoy, the watermelon cake was born in our lives. Even if you don’t have family or guests with food allergies, this cake is a thriller and loved by all!

INGREDIENTS

+ 2 large watermelons + Assortment of berries and fruit + 4 wooden skewers + Toothpicks + Whipped Cream (optional) + Fresh Mint (optional) INSTRUCTIONS 1. Prep both watermelons by cutting off the rinds and sculpting to create a cylinder shape with a flat top and bottom. Make the bottom cylinder bigger and the top cylinder slightly smaller.

2. Stack your smaller watermelon on top of the larger using wooden skewers to support the center.

3. Use assorted berries and fruit to decorate the outside of your watermelon cake. For the sides of the cake, use toothpicks to help the berries stay in place.

4. Serve alone or with a dollop of homemade whipped cream.

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Johnson County Lifestyle | July 2021

“I love creati ng someth i ng trad itiona l i n a n u ntrad itiona l way.”

CityLifestyle.com/JohnsonCounty

35

LISTING YOUR HOME IS ONLY PART OF THE STORY...

When I list a home, I get ready to craft a specialized marketing strategy tailored to the home and its potential buyers. I offer distinguished photographers that capture the homes beauty and create an online presence that is impeccable - there Is not a one size f its all approach to any of my clients listings. Let me know if I can give you and your home the white glove service you deserve!

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36

Johnson County Lifestyle | July 2021

816.358.2102 ThinkBordner.com

CityLifestyle.com/JohnsonCounty

37

HOT SPOT

ENJOY PURE FOOD + DRINK ENJOY PURE FOOD + DRINK IN MISSION FARMS MAKES EATING CLEAN, PLANT-RICH AND NUTRITIOUS FOOD EASY. Its purpose is to help raise the vibes through the positive energy of healthy people.

“To me, joy is the ultimate state for the human experience,” says Founder Staci Cross. “It has no need for anything. It encompasses bliss, love, fulfillment, ease, grace, wholeness and pure health of body, mind and spirit.

The idea for Enjoy is that we can reach that state of joy when we are healthy in body, mind and spirit. Because we are physical beings, it starts with how we are nourishing the cells of our bodies first that can then translate to a clear mind and loving spirit. It is through a vibrant and healthy body that we can think clearer, be more present to our life and feel great!”

38

Johnson County Lifestyle | July 2021

P

PURE

ARTICLE ALLISON SWAN | PHOTOGRAPHY JANIE JONES

The inspiration to create her business was due to

the sheer lack of on-the-go high quality, organic plantbased options.

“I have been a healthy eater my entire adult life,” Staci says. “Early on, it was a rarity to find healthy food. I started a company in 2006 where I travelled to almost 40 cities for many years and was blown away and frustrated by the lack of healthy options as I traveled across the country. You really had to search hard for something besides Whole Foods. The concept of what Enjoy Pure Food + Drink could offer started to form in my mind. After retiring our company, I realized this was my mission to create.”

Its extensive menu designed for maximum nutrition is completely made from scratch and is also customizable based on your dietary needs.

“Our focus is plant-based, but we also offer organic chicken, salmon, tuna and eggs,” she adds. “Enjoy tries to provide mainly gluten-free, keto-friendly, vegan or vegetarian menu items, and we can easily modify our items to help with special diets or allergies. We offer organic cold-pressed juices, whole-meal CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/JohnsonCounty

39

FOOD HOT SPOT (CONTINUED)

smoothies, all gluten-free desserts, clean cocktails and sustainably farmed wine. We are extremely intentional about how we source each and every ingredient to ensure they are non-GMO, mostly organic, unprocessed and free of unwanted ingredients.”

The most popular items include the Take on the World warm bowl made with red and white quinoa, avocado, kale, broccoli, beets, almonds, hemp seeds and a ginger-miso dressing; the Taste-Like-Ice Cream Kale smoothie blends kale, banana, cashews, dates, vanilla and ginger to perfection; the Spicy Rooster chicken sandwich features avocado, lettuce, tomato and jalapeno aioli on toasted multigrain bread and the healthy Chicken Parmesan is lightly breaded with house-made marinara and pesto and served with mashed cauliflower and broccoli. Don’t miss Enjoy’s daily vegan soup or guacamole, which is said to be the best in town.

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Johnson County Lifestyle | July 2021

DRINK “Every single item is prepared on premises at Enjoy,” Staci says. “We make everything from scratch. Only extra-virgin olive oil and grapeseed oil is used in our kitchen—no damaging partially hydrogenated vegetable oils containing trans-fat or canola oil are ever used.”

Guests wanting to change their eating habits will find it simple at Enjoy.

“Our goal is healthy food that tastes delicious!” Staci says. “There is never a sacrifice to eating healthy at Enjoy.

Every person’s body is different and at various levels of health, but eating more vegetables and fruit is a fantastic place to start if you’re interested in eating healthier. We sure do make it easy to do that!”

This summer, Enjoy will start its franchise company with plans to expand in Kansas City and beyond in the coming years. For more information, visit enjoypurefood.com.

CityLifestyle.com/JohnsonCounty

41

Blinds.

Shades.

Shutters.

Drapery.

25% OFF ANY SOLAR SHIELD PRODUCTS THROUGH THE END OF JULY

Solar Shield is Kansas City’s fastest growing window treatment solutions company.

Their team of professionals is highly experienced and knowledgeable in project planning, design, and installation.

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WWW.KCMOBLINDS.COM OR CALL 816-479-0160 42

Johnson County Lifestyle | July 2021

CUSTOM PAINTING ALL THINGS METAL (OLD AND NEW)

GRAND OPENING! We opened up last August to serve the best self-serve frozen yogurt to our Johnson County community and we didn’t get a chance to throw a Grand Opening Celebration!

RENEW YOUR PA T I O F U R N I T U R E T O D AY

Join us the weekend of July 16-18 Fun

|

Enjoy our 8 brand-new machines that serve 24 unique flavors!

Games | Photo Booths | and More!

24 froyo flavors

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60+ toppings

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Patio seating open

8941 W 135th St in Overland Park

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(913) 701-6085

YOUR LOOK YOUR LIFE WITH CITYGRL

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JOHNSON COUNT Y’S MOST DETAILED ST YLIST H E A LT H Y H A I R -- H E A LT H Y L I F E S T Y L E H A I R C U T // H A I R CO LO R // E X T E N S I O N S S P E C I A L O CC AS I O N // H A I R SM O O T H I N G T R E AT M E N T S

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913.585.4019 @PerrysPowderCoating 2021 E Spr u ce C ir, Un it A , Ola t h e , Ka n sa s 6 6 0 6 2 CityLifestyle.com/JohnsonCounty

43

ROAD TRIP

Explore National Parks Across the U.S. 6 TOP NATIONAL PARKS TO VISIT NOW

THE UNITED STATES’ NATIONAL PARKS, WHICH ARE KNOWN FOR THEIR NATURAL WONDERS AND UNMATCHED BEAUTY, ENCOMPASS LANDS THAT HELPED SHAPE THE HISTORY OF THIS COUNTRY AND HOLD CULTURAL VALUE AND SIGNIFICANCE. The national parks invite us to stretch our imaginations—and our legs—and explore the great outdoors.

This list of national parks just scratches the surface of the natural wonders to wonderlands to discover, but it includes six of the most stunning national parks in the United States.

1.

ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK Rocky Mountain National Park includes majestic mountains, abundant wildlife, incredible hiking trails and so much more. Popular activities include fishing, hiking, riding horses and bikes and enjoying the spectacular views.

Wintertime brings cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and sledding. Watching wildlife, such as bighorn sheep, elk, moose and mule deer, is a popular activity as well.

2.

YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK Located in California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains, Yosemite National Park boasts giant sequoia trees, breathtaking waterfalls, vast meadows and more.

The park is home to unique rock formations like El Capitan, Half Dome and Glacier Point. Gaze in awe at Yosemite’s thousands of waterfalls, including Yosemite Falls, Ribbon Fall and Wapama Falls.

3.

YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK Yellowstone’s 2.2 million acres include colorful hot springs, awe-inspiring waterfalls, fascinating mudpots, explosive geysers, diverse wildlife and more. It is home to more hot springs and geysers than anywhere else on Earth.

The oldest and largest herd of bison in the country lives at Yellowstone, as well as elk, wolves and grizzly bears.

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Johnson County Lifestyle | July 2021

4.

BRYCE CANYON NATIONAL PARK Bryce Canyon National Park, located in southwestern Utah, is home to the world’s largest concentration of hoodoos on Earth. With its fascinating landscape composed of hoodoos, horseshoe-shaped amphitheaters and whimsical limestone rock formations, a visit to Bryce Canyon is often likened to a visit to another planet. This stunning landscape, formed by wind, water and snow, draws hikers, rock climbers, photographers, stargazers and cross-country skiers.

5.

GLACIER NATIONAL PARK Glacier National Park is located on the border of Canada and the United States and is often referred to as the “Crown of the Continent.”

Visitors will find more than 700 glacial lakes and many hiking trails, ranging in difficulty from easy to strenuous. Going-to-the-Sun Road, known as one of the most spectacular scenic drives in the country, is a paved, two-lane highway that divides the park into east and west regions.

6.

ZION NATIONAL PARK Zion National Park’s colorful sandstone cliffs, lush plateaus covered in pine and junipers, narrow canyons, the Virgin River, plus seeps, springs and waterfalls are just some of the scenic wonders here. One of Zion’s most popular hikes is known as the Narrows, the slimmest section of Zion Canyon. Other popular attractions include the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, Angels Landing, Observation Point and Canyon Overlook Trail.

CityLifestyle.com/JohnsonCounty

45

A neighborhood

that f eels like home.

To learn more about our senior living community in Olathe, call (913) 780-9916

All faiths or beliefs are welcome.

Building Great Smiles for Life!

Olathe

913.764.5600

Prairie Village 913.378.9610

shadow.indd 1

Kansas City

913.299.3300

Overland Park 913.387.3500

For more information, visit our website!

www.kidsmilekc.com

46

Johnson County Lifestyle | July 2021

5/1/12 3:22 PM

REALTY REPORT REALTY REPORT

NEIGHBORHOOD

JOHNSON COUNTY

LIST PRICE

SOLD PRICE

%SOLD/LIST

DOM

BDRMS

BATHS

ROCKWOOD FALLS

$2,200,000

$2,045,000

93%

42

5

6.2

MILLS FARM

$1,950,000

$1,925,000

98%

0

6

6.1

HALLBROOK FARMS

$1,889,000

$1,760,000

93%

29

5

6.1

TUSCANY RESERVE

$1,675,000

$1,595,000

95%

42

4

4.3

REINHARDT ESTATES

$1,699,000

$1,550,000

91%

96

5

5.2

HALLBROOK VILLAGE

$1,395,000

$1,395,000

100%

4

5

3.2

HALLBROOK EAST VILLAGE

$1,370,000

$1,370,000

100%

NEW

3

3.1

TUSCANY RESERVE

$1,335,000

$1,335,000

100%

3

5

5.3

SAGAMORE HILLS

$1,299,000

$1,289,000

99%

80

5

4.1

SIENA OF LEAWOOD

$1,199,000

$1,150,000

95%

164

6

6.1

Information compiled is from Heartland Multiple Listing Service (MLS) and includes properties listed and sold in the area from multiple brokers.

STATISTICS from 05/01/2021 TO 05/31/2021. * DOM=Days on Market

CityLifestyle.com/JohnsonCounty

47

TRAVEL DESTINATION

ADVENTURES CLOSE TO HOME

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

48

Johnson County Lifestyle | July 2021

SUMMER IS IN FULL SWING, AND AFTER A YEAR OF SHUTDOWNS, FAMILIES ARE READY TO GET OUT AND ENJOY TRAVELING. While traveling across the country to a beach destination or exploring the gorgeous rocky mountains, we have a a few treasures right here close to our own back yard. We wanted to share a few of our favorite weekend getaway destinations that makes you feel like you are worlds away.

+ STONEWATER COVE RESORT AND SPA

Stonewater Cove is an all-inclusive destination lake resort on the nearly 850 miles of shoreline Table Rock Lake, nestled in the heart of the Mark Twain National Forest. With all the resort amenities and activities geared towards bringing guests of all interests closer to nature and each other, you can enjoy a bit more of the great outdoors without giving up the luxurious comforts you expect at a 5-star resort. This small luxury property showcases a stunning wood and stone lodge featuring a rustically elegant dining room, lounge, bar, and media room. Five accommodation buildings featuring individually designed rooms or suites, impeccable, family-friendly service as well as an enchanting nearly 500-acre, lake front playground with plenty to do for adults and children alike complete this luxury destination. Lounge on the resort’s outdoor pool lined with waterfalls or on the lake swim dock as the children swim to their hearts’ content. Enjoy the hot afternoons out on the lake trying one of many featured water excursions including wake boarding, water skiing and tubing. Get up early the next morning to take in the forest on a guided ATV tour, discovering its many wonders along the way.

THE LAKE AND FOREST GUIDED ACTIVITIES INCLUDE: + Water Sports: test your agility, strength and balance by trying out our staple water sports (wake-boarding, water skiing, knee boarding and tubing). + ATV Tours: awaken your family’s appreciation of outdoor adventure with an ATV ride that rumbles through the trees along handcrafted trails that meander through the lush forest. Rides can be as mild or daring as your skills and desires allow. + Zip-Lines: sail through the charming wilderness on the resort’s brand new 5 zip lines through and over the forest canopy and enjoy an expansive view of the ancient Ozarks in their verdant summer glory. + Boating: enjoy the professionally guided luxury powerboat fleet and choose from a leisurely cruise along table rock lake, or the adrenalin-rush of the jet boat that can take you for a quick, thrilling dunk in the cool water on a hot day. bring your boat along, as Stonewater Cove has a private boat ramp and plenty of slips on our private boat dock.

For more information visit stonewatercove.com

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/JohnsonCounty

49

TRAVEL DESTINATION (CONTINUED)

+ BENTONVILLE, ARKANSAS

Bentonville is a small town nestled in the beauty and uniqueness that Arkansas offers. The nostalgia of the town square and the proximity of art galleries, diverse culinary eateries and entertainment spaces makes this the ideal family destination for a weekend get-away. One of Bentonville's points of pride is Crystal Bridges, an architecture wonder tucked into a natural ravine where art and nature meet. Enjoy the trails, spring fed ponds, and art installations in the Ozark woods. From the vibrant downtown square, historical areas, world-class museums to the soft and hard cycling trails that connect you across Northwest Arkansas, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

WHERE TO STAY: 21C MUSEUM HOTEL Located on the northeast corner of the Bentonville town square and a short walk to Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, 21c Museum Hotel Bentonville is a 104-room boutique hotel, contemporary art museum, cultural center, and home to The Hive restaurant, led by executive chef Matthew McClure. https://www.21cmuseumhotels.com/bentonville/ For a full list of must-do experiences in Bentonville, visit https://www.visitbentonville.com.

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Johnson County Lifestyle | July 2021

Audi Shawnee Mission offers concierge valet service at just the right time.

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