Topeka, KS April 2024

Community, Relationships and Future are all Worthy Investments.

Welcome to our Investment edition of Topeka City Lifestyle. There are many different kinds of investments. The most worthwhile investments involve effort of some kind. Whether you’re investing your time, activity, money, or your mind, you have faith that all of that commitment will pay off in some way further down the road.

In our pages this month, we focus on some classic things we invest in. Of course, when most people hear the word “invest”, their thoughts turn to money. After all, money investments are everyday decisions that help us reach our lifelong financial goals. We’ll introduce you to a local team from Link Wealth Strategies who can help you with all decisions about investing and saving for your retirement years.

Probably the biggest investment the average person makes in their lifetime is buying a home. Melissa Herdman from Kirk & Cobb Realty answers some questions about buying a new home in today’s market and provide some tips for experienced and newbie home buyers. And while we’re on the topic of homes, we’re featuring Nic Luttman from EcoFresh Power Wash with tips for keeping your home looking its best season after season.

If you love the great outdoors, you’ll love hearing how Shawnee Parks and Recreation is investing in our community by creating new nature trails that we can all enjoy. We will introduce you to the Smiths who help people invest in their legacies by creating art that connects us to our past and keeps family members and their memories alive.

Every day, we invest in ourselves and the people around us. We invest in our relationships and we build a personal community of people we know and love. These are the things that make our lives richer in ways that go beyond money or material possessions.

Brian and I are thrilled to be able to invest in this vibrant and promising city. We hope our publication helps you learn more about Topeka and the people and businesses that make our Golden City so special. Thank you for investing your time in reading the pages of our passion project. We hope the stories we weave and the introductions we make will help you create the connections that turn bricks, bridges, and buildings into living, breathing, thriving communities full of caring and kindness.

Blessings,

KATHY GRAHAM, EDITOR @TOPEKALIFESTYLE CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/TOPEKA

April 2024

PUBLISHER

Brian Rodehorst | brian.rodehorst@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Kathy Graham | kathy.graham@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Sara Schultz | saraschultzstyling@gmail.com

STAFF WRITERS

Sue Baldani | suebaldani@yahoo.com

Kelsey Huber | khuber2@gmail.com

Amanda Knowland | amandalanum@gmail.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS

Kristol Kumar | kristol@kristolkumar.com

Lindsey Wagers | info@wagersphotography.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Michelle Terry, Koshia Siver, Emily Foster, Tara Norris

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Michelle Terry, Adalyn Sinclair

business monthly

Solve Pest Problems Safe and Fast

At Honest Pest Control we use Integrated Pest Management (IPM) so that we can limit the chemical needed to control pest problems in your home. When you pay your hard earned money for a service, you deserve to have the safest, most effective pest control possible. We proudly serve Topeka and the surrounding areas, providing top-notch results and experience to our clients. We are rated 5 stars on Google. Visit honestpesttopeka.com or call 785-383-1394.

Scan to read more

True Wellness is a Journey - Summit Health

Summit Health is a high performance functional medicine and sports medicine clinic located in Westridge Mall. Founded by Ryan Tomlins M.D. who has over 12 years of experience working with clients to meet their health needs. Ryan utilizes advance testing strategies and treatments to assist in determining the true root cause of symptoms which ultimately helps his clients optimize health and live the lives they have always dreamed of. Call at 785-256-0811 or visit summithealthks.com.

Scan to read more

CONTINUED >

Certified Dave Ramsey SmartVestor

Thad Allen is a financial advisor with Smith Moore and part of Dave Ramsey’s SmartVestor program. Thad incorporates many of Dave Ramsey’s principles, such as “The 7 Baby Steps”, into reaching your financial goals.  As a SmartVestor Pro*, Thad believes in investing for the long term and eliminating debt. He is ready to begin discussing your financial goals. For more information call 785-274-9991 or visit  SmithMoore.com . *SmartVestor PRO™  is an advertising service for investing professionals.

Scan to read more

New Business Alert - Mad Viking Customs

Mad Viking Customs stands out for its superior window tinting and vehicle customization services. Our skilled team applies premium window tints, ensuring style, privacy, and UV protection for your vehicle's interior. Beyond tinting, we specialize in customizing vehicles with accessories ranging from bed covers, hitches, side steps, audio, and more. With Mad Viking Customs, your vehicle undergoes a transformation that reflects your style and business needs. To schedule an appointment call 785.329.5091 or visit facebook.com/madvikingcustoms

Scan to read more

Photography by Smith Moore

Photography by Mad Viking Customs

Mortgage Lender

We have such amazing, innovative business leaders in our community who are proud to serve you, our residents, with class and quality. We’ve compiled some of our top company picks for the services that might be on your mind this month in an effort to make your lives a little easier.

Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation fairwayindependentmc.com | 785.379.3830

Community Lending of America clatopeka.com | 785.371.4477

CNB Mortgage bankoncnb.com | 785.271.0838

Landmark National Bank banklandmark.com | 785.273.3303

Kaw Valley Bank kawvalleybank.com | 785.232.6062

Accountant

Sparks Tax and Accounting Services sparkstaxks.com | 785.251.8561

Simply Solutions Inc simplysolutionsks.com | 785.408.5445

Accounting Center, Inc. accounting-center.com | 785.267.7100

Want to suggest a monthly pick?

Bradley E Hammel CPA PA bradhammelcpa.com | 785.272.6234

Mikoleit Inc. mikoleitinc.com | 785.271.8113

AN INCREASE DEMAND IN

W E L L N E S S S E R V I C E S

has one local business owner looking at her beauty services in a whole new light

Kelly Robbins is the owner of Sunsations Sun Spray Spa a local business celebrating 18 years serving the Topeka community

In 2006 Sunsations was established to provide quality tanning at an affordable price. The industry quickly changed with the introduction of Spray Tanning and Red-Light Therapy and Sunsations evolved too Now holistic healing trends have us looking at utilizing these beauty devices on the entire body “Fighting Fine Lines and Wrinkles is the purpose of the Poly Pro Rejuv, however I have discovered it has many other benefits in addition to antiaging Not only did I use it to eliminate a dark spot on my face, I am relieving my arthritis pain with weekly treatments.” Red-Light therapy will stimulate collagen production, reduce inflammation, and promote cellular repa firmer, healthier-looking skin. With this g yet effective treatment you can alleviat and enhance overall well-being. We have paired the Poly Pro Rejuv with massaging Cocoon Infrared Sauna Clien utilize the anti-aging effects of Poly Pro face while enjoying the holistic cleansing of the infrared sauna Infrared saunas f harmful toxins from the body through a natural

process of hidrosis This process leads to the reduction of impurities in the body, helps break up body fat, increases metabolism and aids in achieving permanent weight loss Sun tanning manufacturers now combine the positive benefits of Red-Light Therapy into the UV sun beds. We now offer two high end German engineered sun beds that combine UV with Red-Light Therapy and one that offers a higher range of UVB than traditional sun beds. If clients want a tan without the sun, we offer both custom airbrush spray tans and a fully heated and automated spray booth Sunsations has been recognized by the #1 spray tan brand Norvell and is a Norvell University Spray Tan Academy Trust that Sunsations will continue to lead and innovate the Wellness Spa Industry and bring the latest trends to Topeka - Kelly

Try it Free

ON THE FENCE

ARTICLE BY KELSEY HUBER PHOTOGRAPHY BY ECOFRESH POWER WASH

A Fresh Take on Fence and Deck Maintenance

Your home is your biggest investment and it takes a lot of maintenance to keep it looking good. Luckily, some home maintenance projects fall into the DIY category - like deck and fence staining. Or do they? We talked to Nic Luttman of EcoFresh Power Wash and we learned a lot.

TCL: IS THERE A WRONG WAY TO STAIN A WOOD FENCE OR DECK?

Luttman: There are actually more wrong ways to do it than right ways. Most homeowners simply power wash and apply a wood stain and that’s it. What they don’t realize is that the results of all that hard work aren’t going to last very long.

TCL: WHY IS THAT?

Luttman: You have to understand wood and how it reacts to outside forces. Many people like to power wash wood that has turned grey because it looks so good when it’s restored to its original color. But wood is a very soft material. Most power washers can deliver up to 3500 PSI. When you power wash wood with that amount of pressure, you actually tear the wood fibers. You can see the damage in start and stop marks and unnatural textures. This damage leaves it susceptible to the elements and makes it weather faster.

TCL: BUT THEN YOU STAIN IT. DOESN’T THAT PROTECT THE WOOD?

Luttman: That all depends on the product you use. Many stains don’t fully penetrate the wood fibers which can create a moisture gap leaving the wood open to peeling, chipping, and cracking. It doesn’t take long for it to look grey and weathered again.

TCL: WHAT DOES ECOFRESH DO DIFFERENTLY?

Luttman: We rely on product versus pressure. We use a three-step cleaning process that raises the dead wood fibers to the surface where they are rinsed off with a softer power wash. The wood looks new and we don’t create additional damage. Our product is environmentally friendly so it’s safe for kids, pets, and the environment. Once the fence or deck is clean, we apply a high-quality stain so it looks good for a long time.

TCL: WHAT MAKES YOUR STAIN LAST LONGER?

Luttman: Our stain is 100% oil-based. That’s important because it penetrates deeper into the wood forming a seal that is UV and water-resistant. It will not form a film like some other stains on the market. The right processes and products make all the difference. It also allows us to stand behind our work with up to a three-year warranty.

I like to lead with education. Once customers understand what each product does and the great results to expect, they realize that DIY is a lot of work for results that don’t last nearly as long.

TCL: IS THERE ANY FENCE OR DECK MAINTENANCE THAT HOMEOWNERS SHOULD PERFORM REGULARLY?

Luttman: It’s a good idea to clean decks and fences several times a year with a broom or leaf blower to keep dirt particles and debris off the wood. Rinsing with gentle chemicals will kill any organic growth like mold or mildew.

TCL: HOW OFTEN SHOULD FENCES AND DECKS BE STAINED?

Luttman: We recommend staining your fence every three years. For decking, every two years on horizontal surfaces and every four years on vertical surfaces like railings or spindles.

EcoFresh Power Wash also handles house washing and concrete cleaning in the Topeka area. Visit them at ecofreshpowerwash.com.

YOUR BIGGEST INVESTMENT

Expert Tips for Homeowners, Buyers, and Sellers in Today’s Market

ARTICLE BY KELSEY HUBER PHOTOGRAPHY BY KRISTOL KUMAR

For most people, your home is the largest investment you will make in your lifetime. We sat down with Melissa Herdman, a realtor with Kirk & Cobb Realtors, a family-owned company that has been in business in Topeka for over 70 years. We asked her what homeowners need to know about owning, buying, and selling in today’s real estate market.

“When I talk to customers, I listen for their why. People buy for their why not for their what.”

Herdman has been working in real estate since 2012. “My background is in nursing,” she said. “But after I became interested in real estate, I was excited to find that it fulfills my need to help people, just in a different way.” Sitting down with customers and getting to know them is her favorite part of the process. “Helping people get from where they are to where they want to be and feeling confident in the process is my goal,” she shared.

One of her first pieces of advice is: If you own a home, get a real estate review. Homeowners are sitting on a lot of equity. It’s a large investment. “We won’t pressure you into selling your home,” she said. “We’ll help you decide what makes the most financial sense.” For instance, if the bank owns 80% or more of your home, you must have private mortgage insurance (PMI). You may find out that you have built enough equity that you can drop your private mortgage insurance payments.

That’s money in your pocket. If interest rates are low, it may make sense to refinance. If your home is outdated, a home improvement loan may be the best move. You may want to invest in a second home or put the money into other investments like the stock market. The point is that you have options and ways to use your money to your advantage. A real estate agent can help you identify them.

Whether buying or selling, Herdman says it can be an emotional time often precipitated by change and people don’t typically like change. “When I talk to customers, I listen for their why.” Herdman explained. “People buy for their why not for their what. For instance, I’m building a home right now. Why? We wanted space for our family to be able to gather and we wanted to be out in the country on a blacktop road. Everyone’s why is unique to them, but it’s always rooted in emotions, not logic.”

Besides knowing their why, keeping in touch regularly with updates and feedback keeps everyone on the same page. Herdman shared that communication is critical to keeping customers happy. She encourages customers to ask a lot of questions. “I tell them if they don’t have questions, I worry about them,” she laughed. Here are some of her top tips:

REAL ESTATE TOP TIPS

• If you have questions, don’t listen to the national media. Talk to someone local. You’ll get a much better feel for the market you are in.

• If you are on the fence about buying, selling, or both, call a real estate professional. Realtors can answer many questions and provide the information you need to make the smartest decisions with your biggest investment.

• Buying or selling a home is a big decision and it needs to be done on your timeline.

• We can show any home on the market, not just those with our sale sign on it. You don’t have to call that specific listing agent to see that house.

• Ask lots of questions. Don’t be afraid to ask your agent anything. The real estate industry has a lot of moving parts. Most people don’t buy or sell a home more than a few times in their lifetime. Real estate agents know the details because they are immersed in them daily.

• It’s important to find a real estate agent who fits your style. Ask questions about their communication style/preferences. Make sure your personalities mesh well and you feel comfortable.

“Knowledge is power. We know this industry and this local market. Whether you use our services or not, my goal is that you feel more empowered after talking than when we started the conversation.”

As their slogan says, Kirk & Cobb has been matching hearts and homes since 1947. “If you have questions, give us a call. Knowledge is power,” Herdman said. “We know this industry and this local market. Whether you use our services or not, my goal is that you feel more empowered after talking than when we started the conversation.”

Kirk & Cobb Realtors can show all Topeka area MLS listings. You can also search all Topeka area listings on the Kirk & Cobb Property Search page. You can even have new listings that meet your criteria automatically sent to your email account. “We make it easy to get you from where you are to where you want to be,” Herdman said. For more information, visit kirkandcobb.com

-BETTY

Legacy WORTH LEAVING

FAITH, FAMILY AND LOVE

ARTICLE BY AMANDA KNOWLAND PHOTOGRAPHY BY LINDSEY WAGERS/WAGERS PHOTOGRAPHY

When we hear the word ‘legacy’, our minds may fill with ideas of wealth, property or children. For

Rick and Tiffani Smith, their legacy is taking shape in the form of faith, family and skillset.

Both Rick and Tiffani were raised in homes filled with love and respect, which shaped the values they live by today.

“When I was young, I admired my grandpa’s skill with the hammer and steady work ethic as I helped him with

construction projects,” Rick recalls. “The same grandpa would gather us and tell stories about his hardworking parents, grandparents, and other ancestors. Those stories inspired me to work hard and gave me a sense of belonging. They still do. I want to pass on the same legacy to my children by working hard and telling family stories as much as I can.”

Tiffani also grew up hearing stories of her feisty, determined grandmother and the work ethic passed down by the men in her family.

“I have come to know what stock I come from,” she says, “and it helped me determine

who I am and who I want to be. I’ve especially loved discovering that my interests in creative writing, singing and art are all things some of my ancestors excelled at.”

Rick and Tiffani met in college art class. Tiffani fondly recalls the moment she first laid eyes on Rick, describing him as someone who “glowed with goodness.”

Initially drawn to art as a career, the young couple determined art was probably best kept as a cherished hobby, and Rick, instead, pursued a career in law to support their dream of having a family. Now, they have six children, all of whom share their love for art.

CONTINUED >

“Art seems to be a way they communicate with us and others,” the Smiths say of their children.

Each of the Smith family members expresses their art in different ways: drawing animals, drawing people, photography, creating illustrated books, and - for their one-year-old – painting with food.

Portraits have become a special focus for Rick and Tiffani. Tiffani’s love for drawing faces and Rick’s admiration for the connection it creates between generations converge in their portraits. More than images, their sketches bring back to life stories of the past.

“Last October (for family history month), I decided to do as many sketches of my ancestors as I could in that month,” Tiffani shares. “I would sketch my favorite picture of an ancestor, read up on stories about them, and post my sketch with a favorite story on Facebook. I loved getting to know every nuance about their face and little details about their lives. I feel like I got to know them better and could introduce them to my children and friends.”

“When I paint someone’s child or grandparent, for example, I know the painting will not end up in a thrift store; it will stay in the family for generations!” Rick says. “That’s a cool feeling – to create something that connects generations.”

In his day job working in inheritance law, Rick has seen what it truly means to leave a lasting legacy.

“I have seen first-hand that leaving money and property is not as important as a legacy of love and belonging and the core values that we live and share,” he says.

Tiffani adds, “We hope our children know they are loved and that they have an important place in a wonderful family heritage. I hope they know and feel connected to their family (past and present), so they can better face the challenges of life.”

You can view the Smith’s artwork and read their blog at artsmithproject.com

Piece by Piece

ARTICLE BY KOSHIA SILVER PHOTOGRAPHY BY LINDSEY WAGERS/WAGERS PHOTOGRAPHY

As the founder of Link Wealth Strategies, my journey in the world of finance has been driven by a passion for helping individuals live a life filled with joy. At Link, we believe the only way to truly do that is to be at peace. We are proud to help our clients invest in their future, secure their retirement, and leave a lasting legacy.

Now, I don’t see myself as just a financial advisor; I’m a husband, a father, a coach, a friend… and a bit of a puzzle enthusiast. My wife will laugh when she reads that. I do not like jigsaw puzzles at all, she does, but I’m fascinated by the puzzle of life, where each piece represents an aspect of your future—your retirement, your career, your community, and more.

CONTINUED >

Our passion at Link lies in helping you gather the right pieces and fit them together. We believe in futures filled with joy and peace of mind. Here’s how we approach our financial planning relationships.

We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all. You or your business have unique financial goals, circumstances, and hopes for the future. For many of you, this includes a comfortable retirement. Now, retirement planning can feel like a complex puzzle with missing pieces or ones that just don’t quite fit. This is why at Link Wealth Strategies we take a personalized approach. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. We take the time to understand your situation, develop a financial plan unique to you, and from that plan make tax-intelligent recommendations that will give you the freedom you need to achieve your dreams. This customized financial plan then becomes the foundation upon which our analysis, work, and adjustments going forward are based.

We’re lifelong learners. I believe in investing in myself and our team. This is why we have a book club. We discuss best practices, industry trends, and even delve into personal development. By continuously growing and developing ourselves, I believe this creates a healthy team, equipped to guide you effectively, no matter how complex your personal or financial situation may be.

We’re not just colleagues, we’re family. Investing in a team isn’t just about knowledge. It’s about relationships. At Link, we’re more than colleagues; we’re a family that trusts one another.  We celebrate each other’s successes and offer support during challenging times. This spirit is like fitting together the corner pieces of the puzzle. Ultimately, our clients benefit from the stability and health of a trustworthy team that is growing together.

Whether you’re nearing retirement, just starting your career, or somewhere in between, my reminder and encouragement to you is to invest in yourself, your team or family, and those around you.

We believe in giving back to our community. This spirit of investment extends beyond our office doors. We’re committed to the Topeka community, through an investment of our time and monetary donations to various causes like the Topeka Rescue Mission, Young Life, and Meals on Wheels. I believe we are designed to serve others and reap the mental and emotional health benefits of doing so. We at Link firmly believe that true wealth is measured not just by financial success but by the positive investment made toward others who may need our help.

Whether you’re nearing retirement, just starting your career, or somewhere in between, my reminder and encouragement to you is to invest in yourself, your team or family, and those around you. Every successful puzzle starts with a single piece. So, what piece do you need to add or pay attention to today?

I invite you to experience the difference. Schedule some time to visit with our team, let us get to know you, and let us help you piece together what’s possible

Securities offered through Avantax Investment ServicesSM, Member  FINRA,  SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through Avantax Advisory ServicesSM.

Shawnee County Parks and Recreation offers nearly 60 miles of beautiful, diverse natural and concrete trails. Roughly 32 miles of paved pathways and about 28 miles of natural surface trails run through forested, prairie, and open natural areas. In 2022, the trail system connected the community via the Shunga, Deer Creek, and Lake Shawnee Trails. The connectors provide a conduit within the community from SW 29th and McClure to and around Lake Shawnee.

Trail connectivity was an essential part of Shawnee County’s 2014 Master Plan. Trails help build community as runners, hikers, bicyclists, and nature enthusiasts travel through parts of the community they may not have explored otherwise. The Kansas Department of Transportation and Shawnee County Parks and Recreation invested almost half a million dollars in the new trail system through KDOT Transportation Alternatives Grants. In this distribution, KDOT covers 80% of construction costs up to a dedicated amount determined after bids are received. SCP+R is responsible for 20% of construction costs, design fees, any non-participating funds, and annual maintenance.

Tucked in the southeast side of Topeka, the public recreation grounds of Lake Shawnee feature a 6.8-mile, moderately trafficked trail that winds into a newly developed Dornwood tributary, adding another 9.9 miles. Add to that the Shunga, Landon, and Topeka’s trail systems which seek to serve thousands of two-and four-legged trail visitors year-round.

At the heart of these scenic trails is Lake Shawnee, the man-made lake created by Works Progress Administration crews from 1935-1939. The paved trail, completed in 2009, wraps around the lake and invites patrons to meander through professionally maintained botanical gardens and waterfall features. The west side of the lake at Ted Ensley Gardens offers an ideal rest stop showcasing 37.5 acres of garden and a panoramic view of the lake.

Completed in late 2022, the Dornwood trail offers both paved and natural trails. Dornwood is in southeast Topeka and accessible from a trailhead on SE 25th Street, east of California Avenue. The path has evolved from prairie to hardwood forest. Several trails ramble along Deer Creek in heavily forested, rolling terrain. Newly installed wrought-iron bridges provide a unique view of Deer Creek and a waterfall on the far north side.

CONTINUED >

Azura Trails at Skyline Park – Four single-track, natural surface loop trails comprising 4.47 miles of natural surface. This higher elevation provides a beautiful vantage point of the Golden City.

Warren Nature Area – Four miles of natural surface trails beginning at SW 25th and Gage east of Felker Park. The route includes a wetland to slow and clean runoff water from streets and neighborhoods. Birds, mammals, and aquatic species can be found here.

In addition to the featured trails, the Shawnee County community can also enjoy the following routes:

Gage Park Fitness Loop Trail – a two-mile paved trail encircling the park and crossing over Westlake via a bridge.

Shawnee North Nature Trail – a two-mile natural surface trail on undeveloped parkland comprised of grasslands and wooded areas. A short, paved perimeter trail encircles the west side of the park.

Grant-Bradbury Trail – Located west of Forbes Field, a two-mile natural surface trail running through 80 acres of virgin prairie. The area includes hundreds of native species, some of which are scarcely found elsewhere in the state.

Soldier Creek Trail – 1.8-mile paved concrete bicycle/pedestrian trail from Garfield Park to NW Lyman Road.

PLEASE CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING BEFORE, DURING, AND AFTER USING THE TRAILS.

• Adhere to leash laws for your furry friends

• Check the weather, dress in layers, and hydrate

• Be aware of your surroundings, walk with friends

• Leave the trail better than you found it, dispose of trash and pet waste

Are

While CDs offer guaranteed interest rates1, you could be missing out on opportunities to lock in even higher earnings.

talk options today.

April Kelsey

5825 SW 29th St Ste 150

Topeka, KS

Office | 785.272.2132

Mobile | 785.817.1688

aprilkelsey.com

Sara

HOW TO DESIGN A RELAXING SPACE

ARTICLE BY EMILY FOSTER INTERIORS

INVESTING IN HOME DESIGN CAN GIVE YOU A PEACEFUL SANCTUARY WHERE YOU CAN ESCAPE FROM THE STRESSES OF DAILY LIFE. SO GO AHEAD, TAKE THE PLUNGE AND REVAMP YOUR LIVING SPACES – IT’S WORTH EVERY PENNY!

There are many things that can help a room feel relaxing, but let’s keep it simple and focus on my top three. I would say that one must incorporate good lighting, great textures, and a decluttered space to truly get the cozy vibes. Let’s tackle each.

GOOD LIGHTING

It is imperative that there are multiple sources of light in a space. A room needs a soft warm light, so I always like to use a light bulb between 2,700k and 3,000k. Also, and I see this so many times, all lights should have the same temperature light bulb to avoid clashing. It’s not enough to just have recessed or pendant lighting. I always add a table or floor lamp to a space to truly have ambient light.  Also, candles are a must for me. They can be scented candles (an extra way to add relaxation) or I like to use remote control tapered candles, so I don’t have to worry about cleaning up wax later.

GREAT TEXTURES

Textures are seen in toss pillows, rugs, draperies, throw blankets and furniture upholstery. Textures add color, pattern and visual interest. I like to use at least three different textures to help a room feel lived-in and welcoming.

DECLUTTERING

So many times, a person thinks that every nook and cranny and every wall need to have something, and this is not the case. A decluttered space is actually more relaxing because overcrowding of items doesn’t quiet the mind. Decluttering a space can be overwhelming, I get it, so just do it in stages. You’ll love the outcome when the room is tidy, organized and you are only surrounded with what brings you joy.

invest inyour living space

GARDEN TO GLASS

DIY COCKTAILS WITH FRESH HERBS

Nothing says spring like the aroma of fresh-cut herbs in a crisp, cold, cocktail. With warmer weather finally here, growing herbs at home can transform your cocktail hour and add a fresh kick to your springtime favorites.

Growing herbs is incredibly easy and can be done in a variety of ways—from a container in a window, to a planter box in the yard. With a container or garden full of fresh herbs, you will be ready to take your cocktails up a notch.

Basil is a bright herb that is easy to grow and perfect for cocktails. Make sure to harvest immediately before mixing drinks and take leaves from the top to ensure a continual harvest. Fresh muddled basil leaves lend a crispness to the Gin Basil Cucumber cocktail.

Sage is easy to grow and does well in containers. The leaves add an earthy freshness to a refreshing cherry-infused Bourbon.

Mint is also easy to grow, but give it lots of room, as it likes to spread out and is virtually indestructible in the garden. Mint is a versatile herb but is especially lovely in the Rhubarb Mint Mojito.

Try recreating these refreshing cocktails with herbs grown at home and take your cocktail game to new heights!

ARTICLE BY TARA NORRIS PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADALYN SINCLAIR

MR. BROWN

INGREDIENTS

• 2 oz. cherry-sage infused Bourbon

• 0.75 oz. apple brandy or apple jack brandy

DIRECTIONS

• Place over an ice ball in an old-fashioned glass

• Top with ginger beer and garnish with Bordeaux cherries and leaf of sage

RHUBARB MINT MOJITO

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 oz. white rum

• 1 oz. rhubarb puree (2 cups rhubarb, 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup water)

• 0.5 oz. fresh lime juice

• 8-10 fresh mint leaves

• soda water

• lemon-lime soda

• ice

DIRECTIONS:

• Muddle mint, lime juice, and rhubarb puree in a glass or small cocktail shaker

• Once muddled, add the white rum and ice

• Top with large cocktail shaker and shake for a few seconds

• Remove large shaker and pour everything into a glass

• Top with more ice

• Add soda water and lemon-lime soda (equal parts to your liking)

• Garnish with mint leaf and lime wheel

GIN BASIL CUCUMBER

INGREDIENTS

• 2-3 fresh basil leaves

• 0.5 oz. fresh lime juice

• 0.25 oz. simple syrup

• 2-3 cucumber slices

• 2 oz. gin

• tonic water

DIRECTIONS

• Muddle basil, lime juice, simple syrup and cucumber slices together in a small cocktail shaker

• Add gin and ice to cocktail shaker

• Shake well

• Strain over an ice ball

• Top with tonic water and garnish with basil leaf and a cucumber slice

Paisano’s

NEW LOCATION

COMING MID-APRIL 2024

We are excited to bring the same great quality products and service to our all new Croco location!

- The Kueser Family