LIFE + CULTURE GALLOPING INTO ADVENTURE: HEARTWARMING HORSE STORIES FOR KIDS FOOD + BEVERAGE PAWS-ITIVELY DELICIOUS: DIY DOG TREATS & SUMMER FUN TIPS
Kids and Pets, life’s sweetest match!
Dear Readers,
As the summer sun shines over our beautiful Sonoran Foothills, there's no better time to celebrate the special bonds between our kids and their furry friends. Pets teach children invaluable lessons about responsibility, empathy, and compassion. From feeding and grooming to playing and snuggling, these daily interactions help children develop a sense of duty and care. In our fast-paced world, pets offer a constant, calming presence. This bond can be particularly beneficial for children, helping to reduce stress and anxiety. Studies have shown that children with pets tend to have higher self-esteem and better social skills.
To nurture the bond between your kids and pets, creating a pet-friendly environment at home is essential. Set up specific areas where your kids and pets can play safely. Educate your children on how to interact with pets gently and respectfully, encouraging them to understand their pet's body language and needs. Assign age-appropriate tasks to your children, such as filling water bowls, brushing fur, or helping with bath time. This involvement fosters responsibility and strengthens their bond. Take advantage of our beautiful surroundings. The Sonoran Foothills offer excellent trails and parks for pet-friendly family outings. Remember to keep your pets hydrated and safe from the heat.
Did you know that having a pet can improve your child’s physical health? Regular walks with the family dog promote exercise and outdoor activities, which are essential for physical well-being. Additionally, exposure to pet dander and outdoor play can help strengthen your child’s immune system. Our community is brimming with opportunities to engage with pets. Local pet adoption events, veterinary clinics, and pet supply stores are readily available. Consider visiting animal shelters with your children to teach them about the importance of adoption and animal welfare. Participating in community events like pet parades or charity walks can also be a fun way to involve your kids and pets in social activities. In the end, the relationship between children and pets is a beautiful, mutually beneficial bond that enriches lives in countless ways. As we continue to build and grow our community here in the Sonoran Foothills, let’s cherish and nurture these connections.
Warm regards,
MEL FONSECA, PUBLISHER
@SONORANFOOTHILLSLIFESTYLE
August 2024
PUBLISHER
Mel Fonseca | mel.fonseca@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Alexandra James | alexandra.james@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Alexandra Peters
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Ashley Hathaway
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen
business monthly
Desert Maven
Located at Frontier Town in Cave Creek, AZ, Desert Maven creates and sells block printed clothing and unique goods inspired by the desert. Their charming shop also features products from many local makers and artists.
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RHENA ZEMAN’S JOURNEY WITH HORSES
RIDING DREAMS
Rhena Zeman’s journey with horses began when she was just a child. Around the age of seven, she discovered a passion for riding after watching the show "Spirit Riding Free." This early fascination turned into a deep-seated desire to ride, and it wasn't long before she was immersed in the equestrian world.
The first time Rhena rode in a structured lesson with a trainer, she knew she had found something special. "I just really wanted to ride more and started to feel a connection with horses," she says. This connection only grew stronger as she continued to ride, eventually leading her to Caliber, a horse with whom she would form a profound bond.
Caliber was unlike any other horse Rhena had ridden. "I never really had a real connection to a horse until I started leasing Caliber," she recalls. "Caliber was the sweetest horse, but I also learned that you can’t push it. It takes a while to get to the point where you can start jumping meters. Caliber was very patient and very caring." This relationship taught Rhena invaluable lessons about patience, dedication, and understanding, shaping her approach to riding and life.
Working with horses has not been without its challenges for Rhena. One of the biggest hurdles she faced was overcoming a lack of confidence, especially when jumping. "I lost a lot of my
confidence and was scared to jump him. I still do have this problem with other horses, but instead of worrying about falling off before a jump, you have to think about how good the jump is gonna be and think positively. Horses pick up on their rider’s feelings," she explains. This realization has helped Rhena build a more positive and trusting relationship with her horses.
A typical day for Rhena at the barn is filled with routine and care. She starts her mornings early, preparing herself and then heading to the barn at 9 o’clock. There, she goes through her routine of getting a treat for Caliber, grooming, and tacking up before heading to the arena. "If it was a jumping day, my trainer would come out, make sure that the jumps were set up, then we would finish off with a little jumping lesson," she describes. This daily routine reinforces the bond between Rhena and Caliber, as well as her dedication to her craft.
Forming a connection with a horse is about more than just riding. Rhena emphasizes the importance of spending quality time with her horse outside of training. "I formed a connection with Caliber by hanging out with him in his stall, giving him his favorite green apples and treats," she says. These moments of simple companionship are what deepen the trust and understanding between horse and rider.
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ARTICLE BY BRIANNA WHITMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ASHLEY HATHAWAY
“I formed a connection with Caliber by hanging out with him in his stall, giving him his favorite green apples and treats.”
One particularly memorable experience for Rhena was a quiet day at the barn when most people were away at a show. While trotting in the covered arena, a coyote wandered into the uncovered arena and lay in the shavings. "It clearly had no desire to come near the horses, so we kept our distance. After it left, I named it Georgina the second," she recalls with a smile. This moment encapsulates the serene and unexpected joys that come with spending time at the barn.
Looking ahead, Rhena has big dreams. She aspires to compete in Grand Prix show jumping and possibly even the Olympics. Her advice for new riders is simple yet profound: "Take your time and work on building the right form and seat before you start jumping. It does take a while to get to the point, but if you put in the work and patience you can definitely get to that level."
Rhena Zeman’s story is a testament to the deep and meaningful relationships that can be formed between kids and animal friends. In her case, her horse is not just an animal but a friend, a guide, and a constant source of inspiration. In the equestrian-rich area of Sonoran Foothills, her journey resonates with many, highlighting the unique bond between humans and their equine companions.
SUMMER, SUN & SAFETY
ARTICLE BY ALEXANDRA PETERS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY URBAZON, AZMANL AND SANJERI
Summer is upon us – more daylight, energy and activities galore. While children are off for the summer, studies show 46% of families have two full-time working parents. With what feels like not enough time in the day, parents may be wondering how to keep their children, as well as themselves, happy and safe this summer.
Provide Structure and Routine – Throughout the school year, children typically have a regimen day in and out, and for good reason. Research has shown the importance of routines for optimal child development. Routines are
associated with positive developmental outcomes in children, from cognitive, self-regulation, social–emotional, academic skills, and mental and physical health. Keep your children busy, planning activities inside and outside the home as best you can. Incorporate passions they may be developing through free online resources, summer sports and more. It’s important for children to remain socialized throughout the summer; however, it should be noted that downtime is just as important for them to re-charge.
How
to Have a Fun, Safe and Productive Summer With Your Kids
Engage in Summer Learning Programs – Engagement in summer learning programs has shown encouraging outcomes, with students often showing advantages in reading skills comparable to an additional month of school. Such programs are also linked to an increase in graduation rates and improved self-esteem. Something as simple as bringing them to your local library could be beneficial in avoiding a summer slump.
Practice Sun Safety and Stay Hydrated – Remember to wear hats, sunglasses and sunscreen. Seek shade when necessary and if possible, cover up with longer shirts and pants to protect from UV rays.
Schedule breaks for yourself as well – A reminder that you can’t pour from an empty cup. It’s important for parents to have rejuvenating summers, too.
Need inspiration for planning activities with kids? We’ve got you covered.
• Home to more than five zoos and wildlife exhibits, exploring these attractions is always a hit. Or, try the Butterfly Wonderland and the Children’s Museum of Phoenix. The Arizona Science Center has 300+ hands-on exhibits, an IMAX Theater and a Planetarium to engage children of all ages.
• Have really active kids? Try LEGOLAND Discovery Center, Golfland Sunsplash or Sky Zone. Sonoran Foothills is also home to many beautiful hikes and trails. Be sure to wake up early to avoid the heat!
• Kids that love to learn? Phoenix libraries are open daily and are free of charge. Some of them even host storytime days and many activities for kids!
DOG gone GOOD
Try these simple and healthy homemade treats for your furry friends. Not only are they easy to make, they are nutritious and seemingly delicious.
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Peanut Butter Dog Treats
Ingredients:
• 2/3 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/4 to 1/3 cup peanut butter
• 2 eggs
• 2 1/2 cups flour (whole wheat preferred)
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line baking sheet with parchment paper. In a bowl, mix all ingredients except flour and blend well. Gradually add the flour until the dough isn’t sticky. Roll dough into a ball. Lightly flour your surface and lightly knead. Use a rolling pin to roll dough to ¼-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters and place dough on baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Drizzle with peanut butter (optional).
No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls
Ingredients:
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/4 to 1/3 cup peanut butter
• 1/4 cup milk or half and half
• 3 cups oatmeal
Directions:
In a bowl, mix pumpkin puree, peanut butter and milk on medium for 1 minute. Gradually add 2 1/2 cups oatmeal and stir. Use a small scoop or spoon to create 1/4 inch balls. Roll balls into remaining 1/2 cup oats to lightly top. Place into a closed container and refrigerate.
Birthday Cake for Your Pup
Ingredients:
• 1 egg
• 4 tablespoons peanut butter
• 1/2 cup apple, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a ramekin and set aside. Combine all ingredients and mix well. Pour batter into ramekin and sprinkle a few apple slices on top. Bake for 20 minutes.
Treating the Whole Person through Naturopathic Medicine
Restoring
TAKE A PAGE FROM CHILDREN’S LITERATURE FOR CLASSIC BIRTHDAY PARTY THEMES
let the WILD RUMPUS begin
ARTICLE BY CHERYL PARTON PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Whether seeking philosophical guidance or deciding what’s for dinner, recipes for life can be found in literature. We learn from great minds that came before us, and that’s true when planning a birthday party. Take a page from classical children’s books to find themes that combine playfulness, colorful illustration and words to inspire food, décor and games that will tickle the fancy of youthful guests, with a central activity of reading aloud. Published in 1963, “Where the Wild Things Are” is one of the most recognizable children’s picture books of all time. Writer and illustrator Maurice Sendak created a universal story about mastering fears. Dressed in his wolf costume, and sent to his room for creating havoc at home, young Max travels to an island of Wild Things where he becomes king. It’s a story about childhood resilience and mastery of fears, but simply observed, the fantastical book provides a colorful segue to an afternoon birthday romp in the park. When it comes to wild things, enjoy inspiration from our own party, plus we’ve compiled some ideas for ways to help the rumpus begin based on other beloved titles:
“Regardless of the theme, be sure to leave time to read a favorite passage from the central book of choice.”
“WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE” BY MAURICE SENDAK
As a costume party, have guests dress as their favorite wild thing. A crown-making activity allows everyone to be King (or Queen) for a day.
GAME: Wild Rumpus Dance Party. A twist on the Freeze Dance, guests dance and prance freely until the music stops. An extra step means that player is out. A winner is the last “beast” to stand still after multiple rounds of play.
“CURIOUS GEORGE” BY MARGRET AND H. A. REY
Gather a barrel of monkeys, plus your favorite Man in the Yellow Hat, for a party where guests can go bananas. George always seems to wander, so try a scavenger hunt that meanders from clue to clue. Banana cupcakes, banana bread, and a tower of bananas add a healthy touch to the dessert table.
GAME: Monkey in the Middle. Create a circle with one guest in the middle. Toss a ball, or soft monkey toy, across the circle without the monkey in the middle catching it.
“DON’T LET THE PIGEON DRIVE THE BUS!” BY MO WILLEMS
Though an unlikely party host, pigeon—with his wide-eyed enthusiasm—sets a party tone. Eat “bird seed” trail mix and hot dogs (inspired by another Willems title, “The Pigeon Finds a Hot Dog!”). Printable images of Pigeon lend themselves to thematic and whimsical decorations.
GAME: Red Light, Green Light. With guests as “bus drivers,” they make their way to the station/finish line with a twist on this classic party game.
Regardless of the theme, be sure to leave time to read a favorite passage from the central book of choice. Give books as party favors or add a layer of philanthropy by having guests bring their favorite book to donate to a local nonprofit.
Costumes by Sarah Lodge and styled by Sarah, Lodge, Janie Jones and Angela Broockerd.
Summertime is busy time, and that often means eating on the go. Whether you’re at constant baseball games or meeting up for a regular play date, you’re probably bringing food along with you to feed your crew. And there’s no meal that’s as on-the-go friendly as the peanut butter and jelly sandwich.
And don’t get me wrong — I love a PB&J. But months of eating anything can get a little old, and this summer, I started to wonder if there was a way to zhuzh up the ol’ standby.
I was actually inspired by a sandwich at one of my favorite places to eat. All the restaurant’s sandwiches feature cheese. So color me surprised when I found that they had a peanut butter and jelly sandwich on the menu — with the addition of sheep’s cheese. And cue more surprise when I discovered that it was absolutely delicious.
IT’S PEANUT BUTTER JELLY TIME
CHANGE UP YOUR PB&J GAME BY DISCOVERING NEW WAYS TO ENJOY THE OL’ STANDBY
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATIE CURRID
All summer, I was craving this sandwich, a fresh PB&J sandwich on sourdough. I decided to try my own at home with what I had on hand, which was goat cheese. And it opened up a whole new world for me.
The PB&J with goat cheese started being my standard poolside sandwich this summer, and then I started talking to other people about it, spreading the gospel of the PB&J with cheese, and they would share their PB&J innovations with me. You could toast them! Put chips on them! Add bacon! The possibilities were endless.
The PB&J is so nostalgic and, yeah, sometimes, you just want a really basic one on white bread with grape jelly and creamy Jif like you had when you were a kid. But it’s also fun to be playful about it, which is nostalgic in its own way, too — being innovative and doing something a little weird or against the rules, just like when you were a kid.
HERE ARE SOME IDEAS TO CHANGE UP YOUR PEANUT BUTTER AND JELLY SANDWICH:
Change up your bread: One easy way to liven up your sandwich is to use different bread. That sourdough you may have learned to make during the pandemic is a perfect bread to use, or you could opt for milk bread, a Japanese option that is fluffier and sweeter than white bread.
Get nutty: While most toddlers would balk at crunchy peanut butter, you’re an adult! You can try new things! If you don’t have the crunchy type on hand, you can also just add peanuts between your layers of peanut butter and jelly to get that crunchy fix.
Toast it: One of my favorite ways to make an “elevated” PB&J is to simply toast it. It’s really similar to grilled cheese — make your PB&J, and then spread some butter on the outside on both sides. Melt some butter in a pan and add your sandwich, flipping once browned. If you want to get really fancy, sprinkle some powdered sugar on before you cut into it. I promise it will be your new late-night craving.
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!
Say cheese: As I said earlier, you’ve gotta try cheese on your PB&J. I’m a fan of goat cheese, specifically the honey variety, but plain versions or those with dried fruit are great, too. The trick is to set it out for 15-20 minutes before making your sandwich to soften it a bit, so it’s easier to spread on delicate bread.
Whether your pup has the obedience of a dog show finalist, or social behavior that makes you want to play dead around others, you can develop more owner confidence with help from this expert trainer.
“Socializing your dog is beneficial for both dogs and their owners,” says Taryn Tyler, a certified dog trainer. “It creates confidence for both dogs and owners and displaces the anxiety we feel when our dogs aren’t behaving like we want them to.”
Taryn says that boundaries can be learned by dogs of any age.
“There’s a nasty perception along the ‘can’t teach an old dog new tricks’ line of thinking,” she says. “While you can’t take a dog with serious behavioral issues and completely turn them around 180 degrees, you can make improvements in how you understand your dog and how they understand you. Dog training isn’t just for struggling pups either. Creating a relationship between you and your canine based on confidence, reliability and reward can turn a good dog into a great dog.”
ARTICLE
BY LISA MOYER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE
JONES
STYLED BY ANGELA
BROOCKERD
“Creating a relationship between you and your canine based on confidence, reliability and reward can turn a good dog into a great dog.”
Taryn stresses that teaching a dog to sit or stay is less about tricks and more about the relationship that builds between animal and owner. “That, in turn, fosters an environment where the next time a family hosts Thanksgiving or has friends over, the owner and their dogs fall into the habit of obeying commands because of the confidence built through all the work put in beforehand.”
Even dogs with a troubled history can achieve improvement.
“We all love our dogs, but they can be stressful when they can’t seem to click in our home environments.
DOG SOCIALIZING TIPS:
• Socializing is more than taking your dog in public. A guy can dump a bunch of mulch in your driveway and spread it, but he’s not a landscaper until he’s following a plan. When the doorbell rings or a visitor comes into the house, what’s our expectation for the dog? When we’re in public and the dog’s attention is diverted, what’s our plan to refocus them? Socialization is 99 percent working on small steps as part of a larger plan.
• Socializing isn’t about our dogs being the center of attention in public. Everyone loves seeing a dog, but our best outcome for the dog is to go unnoticed. Sitting by our side, ignoring external stimuli, remaining calm—those are things we strive for when socializing a dog.
• When socializing dogs with other dogs, start small. Take a walk with another dog to get them to just exist in the same vicinity. Once they’re able to not be excited by the other dog, work on limited playing in controlled environments.
• If someone comes into your home, let them know what boundaries you’re working on with your dog. You can even suggest asking them to carry a few treats and work on some of the behaviors your dog is already comfortable with.
HOW TO THROW A BIRTHDAY BASH FOR YOUR FOUR-LEGGED FRIENDS:
Once your dog is able to socialize with other pets, playdates are a great way to encourage good play behavior. One way to celebrate your pup’s birthday is to celebrate with their favorite furry friends. Here are a few helpful tips for making your gathering a success.
• Set up play areas for your furry guests to enjoy. This can include a doggy pool or splash pad, chew toys, frisbees, and don’t forget the pet-friendly bubbles.
• Offer party guests birthday attire such as a birthday hat, bandana or party outfit. Set up a photo wall for pet owners to get photos with their furry friends in their birthday outfits. Better yet, make it a costume competition, and invite guests to come dressed up ready to show off their pup’s attire.
• Create a treat display with a pet-friendly birthday cake and various chewy snacks for guests to give their pups.
• Party favors are a must to end your festivities with a bang. Fill party bags with bouncy balls, treats, and pet-friendly bubbles to send your guests off with a smile.
AUGUST 7TH
Phoenix Art Museum: Pay What You Wish Wednesday
1625 North Central Ave. Phoenix, AZ 85004 | 3:00 PM
Every Wednesday from 3pm-9pm, the Phoenix Art Museum offers admission by voluntary donation, allowing visitors to enjoy general and special exhibitions at reduced rates. Support the Museum with a donation. Sponsored by SRP and City of Phoenix. Free admission for Maricopa County Community College District students provided by the Men’s Art Council.
AUGUST 9TH
James and Joni: Their Stories
4725 E. Mayo Blvd. Phoenix, AZ 85050 | 7:30 PM
Join Brian Chartrand (Live from Laurel Canyon, the Sweet Remains) for an evening of music and storytelling, celebrating iconic singer-songwriters James Taylor and Joni Mitchell. Accompanied by a phenomenal Phoenix-based band, Chartrand performs timeless songs and shares captivating stories from their illustrious careers.
AUGUST 12TH
Craft n' Chat at the Desert Foothills Library
38443 N School House Rd. Cave Creek, AZ 85331 | 1:00 PM
Discover Craft 'N Chat at Desert Foothills Library on August 12, 2024, from 1:00pm to 3:00pm. This arts and crafts gathering invites adults to bring their knitting, crochet, needlepoint, or other portable crafts for a friendly, creative session. Whether you're a seasoned crafter or new to the hobby, join in for crafting and conversation. No registration required; donations to support the library are welcome.
AUGUST 22ND
Southwest Wildlife Virtual Speaker Series
Virtual | 6:30 PM
Explore mesocarnivores with Southwest Wildlife on August 22nd, 2024, at 6:30 PM. These pivotal members of the mammalian carnivore family play a crucial role in ecosystems, despite often being overshadowed by hypercarnivores. Join AZGFD biologists Jeff Meyers and Cheyenne Towne for an in-depth look into their diets, habits, and ecological significance. Reserve tickets now for a fascinating virtual session on Arizona’s wildlife conservation efforts.
AUGUST 24TH
Yoga in the Butterfly Conservatory
9500 E. Via de Ventura Scottsdale, AZ 85256 | 1:00 PM
Discover the wonders of marine life every Saturday at 1:00 pm in the Tropical Waters Observation Pool. Dive into an educational Aquarist Talk and Live Feeding led by Sara Donaldson. Learn about venomous round stingrays and meet Agatha, the horn shark. This interactive experience includes a complimentary horn shark education card. Free with admission.
AUGUST 30TH
Carefree Friday Nights
8 Sundial Circle P.O. Box 740 Carefree, AZ 85377 | 5:00 PM
Experience the charm of Carefree after sunset every Friday at 5:00 PM. Enjoy live entertainment at local restaurants and extended shopping hours in the Town Center. Savor a delightful dinner, stroll through the Carefree Desert Gardens, and discover local treasures—all under the stars. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the best of Carefree, AZ.
summer is POPSICLE SEASON
KIDS AND POPSICLES ARE THE PERFECT SUMMERTIME PAIR
ARTICLE BY LINDA DITCH PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
As temperatures rise, children race to the freezer for this frosty treat or wait anxiously for the approach of the musical ice cream truck. Making homemade popsicles is a fun, kidfriendly activity. These recipes feature kid-favorite flavors with an added taste twist. The only tricky part is waiting for them to freeze.
SPICED GRAPE POPSICLES
ingredients:
Makes 18 to 24
• 2 quarts Concord grape juice
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 12 whole cloves
• 4 cinnamon sticks
• 3 tablespoons whole allspice
directions:
Put all of the ingredients into a large saucepan. Bring the mixture to barely a simmer and let it cook for 30 minutes. Remove from the heat and pour the juice through a cheesecloth-lined strainer into a bowl or pitcher to remove the spices. Allow the juice to cool to room temperature, and then refrigerate until well chilled. Pour mixture into popsicle molds. Freeze until firm.
CHERRY LIMEADE POPSICLES
ingredients:
Makes 18 to 24
• 2 cups sugar
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup lime juice
• 2 cups tart cherry juice
directions:
In a saucepan, combine the sugar and water over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Remove from the heat. Add the cherry juice and taste. Add additional sugar or water if needed. Let come to room temperature and then refrigerate until well chilled. Pour mixture into popsicle molds. Freeze until firm.
