PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
SCHOOL STRESS?
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EDUCATION
FIND A PRESCHOOL WHERE JOY LEADS THE WAY. AUGUST 2025
Engaging MultiPrep® curriculum
Nutritious meals and snacks included Character development And more!
Ivy Kids at Stone Oak 24278 Wilderness Oak San Antonio, TX 78258
Infants - Pre-K, After School and Seasonal Camps
Now Enrolling Schedule a virtual tour.
We carry the Full line of Evolution D5 Golf Carts and Recreation Vehicles.
Close to home, your local dealer provides a wealth of knowledge regarding the product, as well as onsite inventory for you to tour and test drive prior to making your purchase.
Purchasing locally allows you to establish a relationship with your dealer representative providing you with the convenience of service and support when you need it.
Many dealers put their purchasing customers first when it comes to getting your UTV, Golf Cart, ATV serviced. You will experience the value your local dealer can add to your purchase.
Visit our showroom Today to explore our extensive inventory.
August is here, and if your house looks anything like mine, it’s part zoo, part snack station, and part low-key chaos. Between back-to-school prep, lost shoes, and at least one mystery smell coming from the couch, I’m just trying to keep everyone fed, somewhat clean, and not chewing on the furniture. And that’s just the teenagers.
This month, we’re shining a light on the smallest (and furriest) members of our world: the ones who make the biggest messes and somehow the best memories. From the kids trying to find their footing in a fast-paced world to the pets who just want to be near us (preferably on the couch we just cleaned), this issue is full of heart. We’re featuring smart support for families through AIM Educate and spotlighting serious pampering for pups at Canine & Co. It’s part chaos, part cuddles, and all kinds of love.
I believe the best stories are the messy ones. The ones where your toddler walks into the kitchen with marker eyebrows and your golden retriever is wearing a tutu. These are the moments we’ll remember. And this issue is full of them!
So grab a juice box or a glass of wine. Find a quiet-ish corner. And take a little time to flip through some good news. I promise there’s something in here that will make you smile!
Same place next month?
PUBLISHER
Sarah Mottu
sarah.mottu@citylifestyle.com
CO-PUBLISHER
Jonathan Mottu
jonathan.mottu@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Chelsea Humphreys
chelsea.humphreys@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Erin Lyons, Chelsea Humphreys
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Yvette Hartridge, Chelsea Humphreys
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Lillian Gibbs
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick
A.I.M.
1: Harry enjoys toys, treats, pieces of Ribeye steak and his outings at The Pearl. 2: Mrs. Waffles arrives through the AZA giraffe conservation program and yes, the zebras have opinions! 3: Ginger and her bestie, Riley, after her spa day at Fine Whines & Lickers! 4: Moana brings island magic and warm hugs to birthdays with Glass Slippers Character Company. 5: Grinning from ear to stirrup during hands-on fun for future cowboys and cowgirls. 6: Every little girl needs a fluffy best friend. Livi and Dixie Belle are pure magic! 7: Moo’s little explorers on a backyard summer mission. @SANANTONIORODEO
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TX 78232
San Antonio Pets Alive! saves at-risk cats and dogs through its Paws Over Texas transport program, partnering with no-kill rescues nationwide. This summer, pets are heading to places like New York and Canada including Miss Girl, who waited six months for her forever home. SAPA! needs shortterm fosters (just 2–3 weeks) and donations to keep these lifesaving trips rolling. Every bit helps! Learn more at sanantoniopetsalive.org.
Want to be featured?
For 30 years, Magik Theatre has brought family-friendly live the atre to the heart of downtown San Antonio, delighting over 3 million children and their families. With original stories and beloved clas sics, every production is designed to spark imagination and joy for all ages. This fall, enjoy Red Riding Hood (Sept. 27–Oct. 12) and A Charlie Brown Christmas (Nov. 22–Dec. 24). Learn more and plan your visit at magiktheatre.org.
by themagiktheatre
Parents, rejoice! Flexible work and reliable childcare are about to share the same roof. Co Play Cove is a new coworking space designed with families in mind, offering profes sional workspaces alongside built-in on-site childcare. Whether you are juggling deadlines or video calls, Co Play Cove lets you focus while your little ones play, learn, and thrive. Stay tuned. Doors open soon!
At M I Dental Designs, we're dedicated to providing a comfortable, high-end dental experience Led by Dr Imam, our team offers exceptional care, from routine checkups to full-mouth rehabilitations, in a patientcentered environment We cater to those who expect the best in comfort, aesthetics, and comprehensive solutions Our promise to you is that we’ll deliver the same care that we would to our own family members This elevated standard of care is what sets us apart from the rest We look forward to meeting you and working towards attaining your smile goals!
A.I.M. Educate X Beyond Education helps kids find their path to learn and succeed.
ARTICLE BY ERIN LYONS PHOTOGRAPHY BY YVETTE HARTRIDGE
Being a parent is hard on the best of days. But when your kid is struggling in any way, it can start to feel impossible. Knowing where to start and who to turn to when your child needs help and you’re not even sure what kind of help that is, can be incredibly daunting. Luckily, A.I.M. Educate X Beyond
“Because success doesn’t have just one path and we’re here to help each student find theirs.”
Education is the perfect place to start. They are ready to help with any challenge your family might be facing with a dedicated, well-trained staff ready to help you find a path forward.
When a parent is trying to understand the challenges their child is facing, one of the hardest parts is figuring out who to consult for help. Should it be the school, a doctor, a therapist, or all three? That is where A.I.M. Educate X Beyond Education can help. The two companies of AIM Educate and Beyond Education came together to create a place where a family can come to have a wide range of educational and mental health needs met. They are equipped to help a student catch up academically, support homeschooling, prep students for tests, conduct psychoeducational evaluations, and much more.
Kassy Campos, the Marketing and Community Outreach Director, said one of the goals at A.I.M. Educate X Beyond Education is for every student’s needs to be met, all in the same place. They do not want families to drive all over town, from the therapist to a tutoring center, and then to the college advisor’s office. If a student comes into A.I.M. Educate X Beyond Education who is struggling in math, has an ADHD diagnosis, and wants to plan for college applications, all those needs can be met at their clinic.
They may be a one stop shop, but they are not one size fits all. The staff at A.I.M. Educate X Beyond Education understand that there is rarely one issue that needs help, but many areas that need to be addressed. Their approach is all about personalization based on the relationships they form with every family
they serve. Kassy said, “We take the time to understand the whole person, how they learn, what motivates them, where they feel stuck, and where they want to go. From there, we craft a plan that’s as strategic as it is supportive.” The services are integrated, allowing everyone to collaborate in personalizing plans that help the student reach their full potential.
One service they are especially passionate about is college and career advising. They recognize that there are many valid ways for a student to approach life after high school. They do this with a very personal approach that is rooted in truly knowing the student. They look at the whole picture: their strengths, interests, hopes, and dreams, along with the test scores, grades, and potential career interests to figure out what is right for them. A.I.M. Educate X Beyond Education’s goal in college and career advising is to make sure the student has the right plan for them, something that gives them direction and hope. They don’t want students to just follow a standard path and get into college; they want to find the right fit for them.
What should be really compelling for families interested in these college and career advising services is
“A learning difference isn't a limitation. It's a signal to teach differently, to listen closely, and to guide each student in the way they learn best.”
that A.I.M. Educate X Beyond Education’s staff will walk alongside you every step of the way. All the guesswork and stress that usually accompanies this process gets replaced with a clear path of discovering “who they are, what they want, and how to get there.” Their staff will not just tell you what tests to take or where to apply. They will also help with essays, scholarship applications, and interview preparation. And this applies to students with neurodivergence or learning differences, because the team at A.I.M. Educate X Beyond Education includes educational evaluators, therapists, as well as tutors that can help with any of the students’ needs.
Kassy told me that the best part about working at A.I.M. Educate X Beyond Education is
knowing that you are making a difference for families, whether that’s helping a parent understand a new diagnosis for their child or advocating for different learning styles at their school. Kassy also told me “The work isn’t always easy, but it’s always worth it.” Sometimes the staff at A.I.M. Educate X Beyond Education deal with the same long waitlists or frustrating roadblocks in existing systems that bring parents to their door. But at the same time, they can see that they are making a difference in the lives of the families they help every single day, and that is what keeps them working hard to help even more people in need. “Because success doesn’t have just one path and we’re here to help each student find theirs.”
At Ivy Kids San Antonio, childhood is cherished, learning is joyful, and each day is designed with purpose. Ivy Kids San Antonio is more than a preschool. It’s a place where little minds blossom and families feel supported. With research-backed curriculum, caring teachers, and an environment that sparks curiosity, Ivy Kids is redefining early education. From enriching activities to healthy meals and loving relationships, every detail is thoughtfully crafted to help children thrive. Parents trust Ivy Kids not just for safety and learning, but for the warmth that feels like home.
AT IVY KIDS SAN ANTONIO, EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION ISN’T JUST A CURRICULUM. IT’S A FOUNDATION FOR LIFELONG SUCCESS.
ARTICLE BY CHELSEA HUMPHREYS
At Ivy Kids, learning happens everywhere. Their enrichment programs introduce kids to the world through music, Spanish, yoga, and hands-on STEM play. These extras are carefully woven into each day to help children discover new interests, explore creatively, and build confidence.
Whether your child is learning a new word in sign language or experimenting with magnets, they’re developing critical thinking skills and curiosity that will carry them into kindergarten and beyond. The goal is to help kids love learning and make every day something to look forward to.
Whole-child care also means fueling those little minds with real, nutritious food. Ivy Kids provides chef-prepared meals onsite daily, including breakfast, lunch, and snacks. Menus are allergy conscious and filled with fresh fruits, veggies, whole grains, and proteins that kids actually enjoy.
Even better, nutrition becomes part of the learning experience with fun food-themed activities, garden projects, and storytime. No lunchbox stress. No mystery meals. Just one more way Ivy Kids creates an environment where children can thrive.
Bright classrooms, warm smiles, and a space that feels safe and inspiring are what greet every family who walks through the doors at Ivy Kids. Designed for exploration and comfort, each room encourages movement, play, and independent discovery.
You’ll find cozy reading corners, art displays full of imagination, and open-ended play stations that let kids lead their own learning. Teachers guide with kindness, knowing how to gently spark curiosity without pressure. The result is a calm, joyful place where every child feels valued and every moment matters.
At the heart of Ivy Kids are the caregivers who make it all feel like family. These teachers aren’t just qualified. They’re passionate about nurturing every child’s growth, both academically and emotionally.
Families often describe the staff as extensions of their village, offering hugs on hard days, encouragement on big milestones, and steady support every step of the way. The directors are communicative and kind, and the environment reflects a deep commitment to relationships. Ivy Kids isn’t just a program. It’s a partnership.
AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHELSEA HUMPHREYS
The Canine Co. is not your average grooming shop. It is a calm, caring space where dogs arrive scruffy and leave with more confidence, less anxiety, and sometimes a whole new attitude. Every appointment is a chance to connect, to listen, and to love on dogs exactly as they are: anxious, silly, stubborn, or shy. It is quiet. It is clean. It smells like lavender shampoo and warm towels! And somehow, every dog who walks through the door seems to sense that they are in good hands.
Owner Sarah Deleon brings years of experience and a calm, compassionate energy to every session. She reads the dog, not the clock. No rushing. No shortcuts. Just patience, empathy, and a little sparkle. The kind you see when a matted rescue walks out looking like a show dog, tail wagging like they know they look good.
She also takes the time to explain things clearly to pet parents, setting expectations and helping each dog ease into the process. If a dog is nervous or reactive, she does not push. She adjusts. She listens. Trust is not something that is demanded. It is something that is earned, one calm moment at a time. For Sarah, grooming is as much about emotional connection as it is about clippers and shears.
“AT THE CANINE CO., GROOMING STARTS WITH trust . IT IS QUIET, CAREFUL, AND FULL OF intention . SOME DOGS COME IN ANXIOUS AND LEAVE STRUTTING. THAT kind OF transformation IS ABOUT SO MUCH MORE THAN SHAMPOO.”
The Canine Co. offers more than just grooming. Calming CBD treatments and holistic care suggestions are part of the experience. Sarah often talks to clients about food allergies, skin issues, or ingredients that might be causing problems. What a dog eats can affect how they feel and how they look. She knows that sometimes the transformation starts from the inside out. For some pups, just switching their treats or kibble can make all the difference in their skin, coat, and energy.
There are no upsells here. Teeth brushing? Included. Nail filing? Included. Extra time for a nervous pup to settle in? That is simply part of the job. This is not a “chop shop” focused on speed and numbers. It is a boutique experience with a big heart, where every breed, coat, and personality is met with thoughtful, individualized care.
Sarah has groomed dogs in multiple states and seen every coat type and temperament under the sun. She knows a Yorkie will not behave like a Boxer, and a terrier probably will not sit still like a poodle. Her approach is both technical and intuitive, shaped by years of experience and a deep respect for each animal she works with. Whether it is a wiggly puppy or a senior with arthritis, Sarah adapts to what the dog needs that day.
Pet parents often leave with more than a clean dog. Groomers are usually the first to notice when something is off. A skin irritation. A foul smell. An ear infection. A quiet signal that might otherwise go unnoticed. Sarah is not a vet, but her hands and eyes are trained to spot early
“SHE READS THE dog , NOT THE CLOCK. Every MOMENT IS BUILT on trust , PATIENCE, AND QUIET, CALM CARE.”
signs and speak up. That awareness can make a huge difference for the health and happiness of the pet.
And it is not just about fixing what is wrong. Sometimes, the real joy is watching a rescue dog slowly relax. Seeing a shy pup wag their tail. Watching them strut out of the shop like they just walked a red carpet. The Canine Co. is a place where grooming is not just about appearance. It is about emotional care, confidence, and connection.
Whether it is your dog’s first appointment or their fiftieth, The Canine Co. is a space where they will be seen, understood, and treated with gentle hands. They will be safe. They will be calm. And yes, they will absolutely look fabulous, inside and out!
BY
Looking for a fun, easy and creative way to help those in need celebrate their special day? Put together a Birthday in a Box! The main element is a birthday cake, and the best part is that no perishable items are needed; all you need is one can of lemon-lime soda to take the place of the oil, water and eggs.
And what is a birthday celebration without decorations? Get the kids to help decide what fun party decorations to include – think candles, banners, confetti, ribbon and more. These are great to make in batches when items are on sale at the grocery store. Stock up and make someone’s day!
Collect all materials. Makes one Birthday in a Box.
• 1 Box of cake mix
• 1 Container of frosting
• 1 Can of lemon-lime soda
• 1 Disposable 9x13 aluminum baking pan with lid
• Cardstock or heavy paper, for baking directions and note (printed or handwritten)
• Party decorations of choice, including candles
Gather cake mix, container of frosting, can of lemon-lime soda, aluminum baking pan with lid and party decorations. Carefully place each item in the bottom of the baking pan, ensuring everything fits snugly.
Print or handwrite the instructions on cardstock, letting the recipient know to replace the oil, eggs and water with the can of lemon-lime soda, following the directions on the back of the cake mix box. You can also include a birthday wish.
Once all the items are in the pan, secure the lid and tie the package with a ribbon for an added festive touch. Deliver to your favorite food pantry.
Include candles; balloons; a birthday banner; noisemakers; a blank card for friends and family to sign; a small, gender-neutral gift or a gift card; birthday-themed paper plates and napkins. You don’t have to make each box the same –choose a different cake mix and frosting flavor for each box!
Collect your essentials and special decorations
2. PUTTING IT TOGETHER
Place each element in the baking pan, including directions, and cover with the lid
3. TIME TO DELIVER
Collect your birthday cake boxes together and drop it at your favorite food pantry
We create bespoke itineraries that offer the best in luxury vacations. Cruise, Land, and Escorted Tours.
Wander through the romantic streets of Europe’s historic cities or sail along the Danube River on the AmaMagna River cruise ship.
Immerse yourself in the wild beauty of Africa. Experience the thrill of close encounters with majestic wildlife, luxurious lodges, and awe-inspiring landscapes.
Explore the captivating sights and rich culture of Japan, South Korea, Thailand or Vietnam.
AUGUST 1ST
555 W Bitters Rd San Antonio, TX
78216 | 9:00 AM
Kids Camp at Painting with a Twist is a fun art adventure for the kiddos! Sign up here to register your kid for the entire week, Monday through Friday. Camps are for ages 6–13. Cost is $195 for five days and includes all supplies and snacks each day (please note any food allergies in the booking notes).
AUGUST 3RD
The Springs at Civic Park | 10:00 AM
Free Community Yoga offers Sunday morning classes in Civic Park! Join us at 10:00 am for a fun, beginner-friendly flow. All are welcome to move and breathe together. Please bring your own yoga mat and water. Check out the Sunday morning schedule at FreeCommunityYoga.com and register for class.
AUGUST 5TH
Yanaguana Park | 10:00 AM
Join us for Story Time at Hemisfair on the first Tuesday of each month! Kids enjoy a themed book reading and hands-on art activity. This month’s story is Change Sings by Amanda Gorman. Explore self-expression through creativity in Yanaguana Garden and no registration needed. Let’s play, learn, and create together. See you there!
"Lauren worked tirelessly to ensure a successful transaction. This particular property was a very difficult unit to market and sell. Lauren never even flinched. She just kept doing whatever was necessary, going above and beyond to get the deal done. I felt like she was my partner, not just a real estate agent. She is the consummate professional and I can honestly say without her efforts this home would not have been sold successfully. If you have an opportunity to work with her or anyone from this group, I would not pass it up!"
-Todd F.
LAUREN FIGUEROA LAMPEL GRI, REALTOR® | Jason Glast Group | Phyllis Browning Company
Lauren Figueroa Lampel is recognized for delivering elevated client experiences and outstanding results, backed by best-in-class marketing and strategic expertise.
Alongside her team, she delivers a 37% higher average sales price in Stone Oak’s most coveted neighborhoods—setting a new standard for success in the area.
With exclusive tools, deep market knowledge, and flawless execution, Lauren is uniquely positioned to redefine your expectations in luxury real estate.
C 210.275.1827
lfigueroa @ phyllisbrowning . com @ laurenlampelrealestate J ason g last com
CONTINUED
AUGUST 7TH
Storytime: Water
Water Everywhere
Urban Ecology Center - Nature Play Area 8400 NW Military HwySan Antonio, TX, 78231 | 10:00 AM
Join Ms Wendy and friends in the park for Story Time! We’ll sing songs, read stories, and have a make-and-take craft. Then let’s have some fun at our Children’s Nature Play Area or head out into the park to find signs of mammals! Best for families with children 1 to 7 years old.
AUGUST 13TH - SEPTEMBER 10TH
Clear the Shelters:
Adoption Fees Waived
SAPA! Rescue Centers (multiple locations throughout San Antonio) | 12:00 PM
Help every tail find a home. Join SAPA! for Clear the Shelters with waived fees, pet vendors, and plenty of puppy kisses. Bring the family and meet your new best friend.
AUGUST 24TH
Dog Days of
Salado Outdoor Classroom 13203 Blanco Road | 9:00 AM
Stay cool in our shady dog park with pupsicles, play games to win pup bandanas, stickers, and more!
Experience the difference of exceptional representation partner with Lauren on your next move.
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GET IN TOUCH AT CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/ STONEOAK
Each Week students, 8 to 18, take a private lesson and rehearse with a band of their peers. This performance-based approach helps students gain a unique type of confidence through practical experience–they learn to rock on stage and in life.
Mention SOL-109 For a Free Trail Lesson And Tour– Call Today: 210-314-7671. Limited Summer Spots Still Available.
