Waconia, MN August 2023

Living Inspired Our Kids & Pets Issue

EDUCATION CROWN COLLEGE: INSPIRED BY FAITH

EVENT PLANNING + SERVICES

HOME + DESIGN BUILD YOUR KIDS A MAGICAL HIDEAWAY

HEALTH + WELLNESS

PREPARING FOR FALL PHOTOS FOR THE LOVE OF DOGS

Live InspiredOur Kids and Pets Issue

I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits.

This issue is one of my favorites. I suppose it is because of the immense joy that children bring to our families and the significant impact they make on our communities.

Children are not merely the hope for a brighter tomorrow; they are the foundation upon which our society stands. Their innocence, curiosity, and boundless potential have the power to create change and innovate our world. Kids represent our hardest work and greatest investment and we are happy to highlight some inspiring stories about just that.

And of course, who could forget pets? This special kind of companionship can be a transformative experience for children and adults alike. Pets provide us with unconditional love, and the opportunity to learn, grow, and develop essential life skills in a nurturing environment. And my gosh, the bond between kids and their furry or feathery friends, is unmatched! The bond is often deep and meaningful, fostering qualities like empathy, responsibility, and companionship.

I’ll never forget when we first got our cat Jag, and somehow he got into the air exchange in our unfinished basement. We were scared and nervous about his safety and how we would get him out. Adeline, 8 years old at the time, was especially high with anxiety and fear, crying silent tears as she held one end of the tubing, calling for her kitty to come out. After an hour of trying everything, we made one last-ditch effort to take the tubing apart, which thankfully worked, and returned him safely into the arms of his best friend. It was an experience that taught all of us a lot and strengthened the bond between Adeline and her kitty.

What children and pets have in common is that they both need us. Jag needed our patience, persistence, and faith that we would get him back to us safely but children need us in different ways.

Our care, attention, and intention shapes how they are raised and who they become. We have the responsibility as their leaders, parents, and community members to nurture and grow the relationships we create with them.

We hope this issue inspires you to pour a little extra into the children and pets in your life this month and beyond.

With admiration,

AMY JANZEN, PUBLISHER @WACONIACITYLIFESTYLE

August 2023

PUBLISHER

Amy Janzen | amy.janzen@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Emily McKeever | emily.mckeever@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Natalie Finazzo Fox | natalie@nataliefinazzofox.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jessica Loving Maturi, Alison Lee, Lutie Ronglien, Emily McKeever, Angela Broockerd

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Maria Claire Photography, Janie Jones Photography, Pet Matrx, Jamie Joos Photography, RK Photography, Kristin Kraemer, @Blinded_Photographer

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall

LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

1: Instead of rain clouds, clouds of the delicious candy variety were provided by Candie Clouds. 2: Dr. Jesse Toftely and his wife Shannon were welcomed by so many from the community. 3: Don’t Rain on My Parade was the theme of this year’s Waconia Marching Band performance.

4: Color, movement, sound; the Lake Waconia Band Festival is the complete package. 5: Support was strong at Brush Dental’s grand opening despite the much-needed rain. 6: Face paint, a sucker, a smile, and a balloon animal = HomeTown Bank’s Block Party! 7: Thanks to HomeTown Bank for the summer vibes and parking lot full of fun!

Want to be seen in the magazine?

Tag your Instagram photos with @WaconiaCityLifestyle

BRUSH DENTAL

BRUSH DENTAL

BRUSH DENTAL

RK PHOTOGRAPHY

RK PHOTOGRAPHY

AMY JANZEN

AMY JANZEN

business monthly

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Laketown Elementary Wins Sustaining Exemplar Recognition

For the fifth time in the last six years, Laketown Elementary School has received Sustaining Exemplar recognition for its work through the framework of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS). When implemented consistently, PBIS improves academic success, school climate, and social-emotional know-how as well as strengthens teachers’ well-being. Join us in congratulating Laketown Elementary School on being one of eighty-seven schools to earn the honor this year!

It's Never Too Early! Custom Christmas Lighting's 30% Off Special

Magnolia North Boutique is Open in Downtown Waconia!

Yes, it’s the “dog days of summer” but you’ll be high-fiving yourself this holiday season when you sign up with Custom Christmas Tree Lighting. Set up a free on-site estimate and design consultation and receive 30% off if you book by September 30th. They have many colors and decorating options to choose from and they’re in charge of installation and removal, so no Clark-Griswold-ona-ladder-flannel-shirt situation for you this year! Merry early Christmas! https:// customchristmaslighting.com

Scan

In July, downtown Waconia gained a new member, Magnolia North Boutique! Tuesdays through Saturdays you’ll find them open from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm and on Sundays, 12:00 pm –4:00 pm. What goodies will you find? Boutique clothing, accessories, gifts, and home décor. There’s also a studio/ workshop space in the back for their gorgeous jewelry line with the possibility of holding creative classes there in the future. Scan

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Waconia

local experiences

Grab the kids, pack your bags and hit the town for some end of summer fun. Use our list for some family-friendly adventures that will do everything from raising your heart rate, excite the little ones, and create lasting memories together.

THE BURROW: We love playing arcade games, mini golf, and grabbing appetizers with the kids. Favorite thing? Seeing the kids’ faces as they count their tickets! 7999 Victoria Drive Victoria, MN

LAKE MINNETONKA REGIONAL PARK: A big reason why we buy yearly passes is so we can go for an hour or pack a cooler and spend the whole day. 4610 County Road 44 Excelsior, MN

STUDIO D.I.Y: Studio D.I.Y. holds fun monthly classes for parents and kids to do crafts together. Sign up for the next one on August 8th! Waconia, MN

GARAGE BAR & BOWL: We always talk about going bowling as a family and inviting friends and family along. We’re hoping to get it on the calendar soon! 16 West 1st Street Waconia, MN

CARVER COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS: We love going to the fair every year. The kids enjoy seeing the animals, going on all the rides and of course, seeing familiar faces. 501 W 3rd St Waconia, MN

Scan for more photos and the full list.

MEET THIS MONTH’S CURATOR

Ashley Peterson

Ashley Peterson grew up in Litchfield and always remembers Waconia being their biggest rival. After graduating college in 2010 with her cosmetology degree, she moved to the Twin Cities and began a 10-year adventure working in a salon. She and her husband moved to Mayer in 2016 where they started their family; they have two boys who attend Bayview Elementary. When Covid hit, Ashley stepped away from the salon life and started her own business, Amp’d, making custom tumblers and apparel. She also began to substitute teach in the Waconia district. In her free time, she enjoys playing volleyball, rollerblading, spending time with family and friends, and coming up with new products for Amp’d!

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PREPARING FOR FALL FAMILY PHOTOS

Tips from Jamie Joos Photography

Local photographer Jamie Joos, of Jamie Joos Photography has a passion for photographing families. “Each experience is so different,” Jamie shares, which allows her to showcase what she does best, capturing the essence of the family dynamic. She’s deeply passionate about guiding families through the process of a productive and enjoyable photo

shoot where everyone feels at ease, and the final product is exactly as the family envisioned. As you get ready for your summer shoot or fall session, Jamie shares helpful tips and tricks she has stashed in her back pocket that will leave you feeling prepared and ready to document those important milestones or simply capture the unique stage of life you’re in.

LET’S GET THE QUESTION YOU PROBABLY GET ASKED THE MOST OUT OF THE WAY: WHAT SHOULD FAMILIES WEAR TO THEIR PHOTO SESSION?

Wear what feels most comfortable but ideally, there should be some color coordination. “I typically set up a Pinterest board to share with my clients so that they can add their ideas and inspiration.”

“Being flexible and calm is most important to capture candid, authentic photos.” -Jamie Joos

ARTICLE BY JESSICA LOVING MATURI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAMIE JOOS PHOTOGRAPHY

WHAT TECHNIQUES DO YOU USE TO ENGAGE AND CAPTURE THE ATTENTION OF CHILDREN AND PETS DURING FAMILY PHOTOS?

When photographing children, Jamie likes to get to know what their interests are and then uses those to connect.  She’ll also bring stuffed animals and candy for a distraction and to make it a fun experience. Jamie explains, “Being flexible and calm is most important to capture candid, authentic photos”. During one family session, she even had a dance party with a little girl that helped her finish the photo session gracefully.

ARE THERE SPECIFIC LOCATIONS OR ENVIRONMENTS THAT WORK WELL FOR FAMILY SESSIONS?

Jamie’s studio is contained, so she can easily modify her lighting. Pets are also welcome in the studio. “As for outdoor photos, my favorites are the Waconia boat launch and my family farm in Cologne.”

HOW DO YOU ENSURE THE PHOTOS REFLECT THE UNIQUE DYNAMICS AND PERSONALITIES OF EACH FAMILY?

“Having a clear picture of what the expectations are is essential”. If someone loves showing off photo albums in their home, Jamie knows it will be a storytelling session reflecting the time in her clients’ lives, that they can then fill an album with. While she does offer a digital option, Jamie is a print-focused photographer.

WHAT KIND OF PREPARATION DO YOU GO THROUGH WITH FAMILIES BEFORE A PHOTO SHOOT?

Jamie sends a questionnaire to the family covering their expectations. They can review outfit choices, special requests, and price lists.

HOW CAN FAMILIES GET A HOLD OF YOU IF THEY ARE INTERESTED IN BOOKING WITH YOU?

To contact Jamie, visit her website:  https://jamiejoosphotography.com/

Spoil Your Pup

ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES PHOTOGRAPHY

Birthday Cake for your Pup

ingredients

• 1 egg

• 4 tablespoons peanut butter

• 1/2 cup apple chopped fine

• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Grease a ramekin and set aside.

2. Combine all ingredients and mix well.

3. Pour batter into a ramekin and sprinkle a few apple slices on top. Bake for 20 minutes.

DIY gourmet dog treats that are pawsitively delicious

Baking with kids can turn you into a person that you don’t recognize. There’s the prep (why so many questions?), the instructions that aren’t followed in order, the fighting over who scoops the what into the where, the power control that a mature adult would admit to having over all of it, and oh the mess! In reality, many of us secretly desire to be the kind of parent who embraces the chaos of flour flying and the dog bone-shaped cookies raising a few eyebrows. Baking together can be a meaningful bonding experience. It promotes teamwork, and confidence, and might even ignite a little light into the next Duff Goldman. Add to that, it’s an excellent cozy rainy-day activity and one to turn to when a break is needed from summer busyness.

No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls

ingredients

• 1 cup pumpkin puree

• 1/4-1/3 cup peanut butter

• 1/4 cup milk or half and half

• 3 cups oatmeal

directions

1. In a bowl, mix pumpkin puree, peanut butter, and milk on medium for 1 minute. Gradually add 2 1/2 cups oatmeal and stir.

2. Use a small scoop or spoon to create 1/4-inch balls. Roll balls into remaining 1/2 cup oats to lightly top.

3. Place into a closed container and refrigerate.

To make a baking session with the kids just a little easier, reach for recipes with short ingredient lists, basic instructions, and on occasion no need for the oven. How about one that the dog can taste test? Set your baking team up with these simple, basic, yet delicious (Max the mutt gives them 5 paws!) recipes for homemade dog treats. There are few sweeter combinations than kids and dogs and when you can get the ball rolling, then let the little ones run with it, everyone is happy, especially the fur babies. Perhaps these will help you dip your toes into the patient baking waters making it a bit more manageable for you to look away when the bowl isn’t thoroughly scraped and enjoy the sweet parts of creating something together.

Dogs deserve dessert too!

Crown College: Inspired by Faith

A small campus tucked away on 215 acres of land in the quiet corners of Saint Bonifacius is not just a college, it’s an experience and home for many. A place where students gain more than a degree, they discover how to use the talents, skills, and passions that God has equipped them with in order to impact the world.

Welcome to Crown College. An accredited Christian college and an affiliate of The Christian and Missionary Alliance. Here you will find a Christian community that emphasizes spiritual transformation, academic excellence, and global engagement. Make yourself at home and explore what it means to be the hands and feet of Jesus.

Graduating from high school is a pinnacle in every student’s journey. For some, it marks an end to formal education. For others, it marks a new beginning. When a student decides to pursue a college degree, the pilgrimage starts to pivot towards an investment and an interest. The education is no longer an assignment based on where your family lives but rather on where you want to learn. There is a whole new generation that recognizes the deep investment in time, money, and resources that it takes to earn an undergraduate degree. These young people are defining success differently than the previous ones. They have a deeper desire for experiences and connections. Crown College is here to offer both. TAKING THE JOURNEY OF EDUCATION FURTHER

ARTICLE BY ALISON LEE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY @BLINDED_PHOTOGRAPHER

While hard work is valuable and still the primary principle in success, Crown College is a place that is putting more emphasis on the purpose behind the hard work. It’s a Christian school that allows students to develop their holistic self by identifying their skills, talents, gifts, and interests and then transforming them through hard work, dedication, and connection all while acknowledging the reason behind the efforts in the first place. Jesus is that reason. And His scripture teachings are the way.

Success at Crown College comes in light of God’s will on this earth and the reverence to serve Him. The royal passion is for its students to infuse their skills with their faith and formulate a worldview that mobilizes a Christ-centered mindset through every decision, practice, and performance. Bringing this application to a liberal arts education is exactly how Crown College prepares its students to thrive in future professions, including business, pre-law, leadership, education, communications, nursing, and other science-based careers. No matter what a student at Crown chooses to study, the connection that comes from the Christian community and culture is the deepest value of them all.

BOLDLY CHRISTIAN

While many schools have Christian roots, Crown College has built its curriculum and campus on the foundation that Jesus is first and foremost. No matter what field of study a student is pursuing, the focus remains the same. Their people, their place, their purpose. It is all driven by a command to serve God. All the faculty and the staff align with Crown’s mission, vision, and values. It’s a community that’s commanded in faith and is the sole basis of their instruction. Whether a student is attending chapel, meeting with a professor or mentor, or sitting in class, faith will be integrated. He is the cornerstone upon which Crown was built. The integration of faith and one’s future is tight. Whether it’s participating in campus extracurriculars, socializing with friends and peers, or the school’s Division III athletics, each student is encouraged and

challenged to live for Jesus in all aspects of life. Yes, it might be bold. But it is a passionate way of life, leading by example, and loving one another.

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

While many of us walked away from our own college experience with much more than an education, it is undeniable that the primary purpose for higher learning is the pursuit of academic excellence. College is a place to achieve advanced learning and secure greater knowledge in an area of interest or distinction. Crown College values its academia and emphasizes the professional guidance and mentorship that is provided to its students from the first day they step foot on campus. Crown has always been a place that propels personal and spiritual growth while gaining the knowledge that will help each student uncover where God wants them to go and how to get there.

Academic advisors, a highly engaged career center, and an intentional and organized mentorship program are all supportive resources and ways in which the campus equips students with support, guidance, leadership, and even just a friendly face as they explore truth, faith, science, and culture while working towards obtaining their degree.

“We have outstanding faculty and staff committed to integrating learning and faith in an environment that empowers and equips students to excel in their calling in any field.” Dr. Andrew Denton, President, shares.

LIFELONG AUTHENTIC COMMUNITY

Crown values the creation of an authentic community. They strive to provide the kind of atmosphere that is not only physically safe but also offers the kind of space where students feel emotionally and spiritually secure. They are certain that the thing most students say sets their campus and their college apart is their community. It is filled with staff and students alike who crave a deeper sense of self and a collaborative commitment to serving Christ.

“We have outstanding faculty and staff committed to integrating learning and faith in an environment that empowers and equips students to excel in their calling in any field.” -Dr. Andrew Denton, President

“Crown values the creation of an authentic community.”

The base of this community-oriented campus lies in the connections built with one another. The Crown experience means meeting students where they are as they discover their unique gifts and talents. This reveal might look like chatting over coffee on campus, meeting 1:1 with a professor, or even group gatherings

for dinner or dessert at a faculty member’s home. The intimacy of the small campus provides unique opportunities for student fellowship and to spend quality time engaging in authentic conversation. And ultimately, creating relationships that will last far beyond the years spent at Crown.

College is a bridge for students. It is a period filled with experiences that distances them from being a child but introduces a gap before becoming a grown adult. This age is challenged with increased independence, difficult tasks, hard decisions, and often a great distance from the comforts of home. They need meaningful relationships and supportive role models who are encouraging and will help them get to where they want to be with positivity and promise. And they crave an educational experience that offers opportunities to embrace a wide range of activities, meet new people, discover interests, uncover skills and talents, and welcome new freedoms. Crown College adorns this bridge with its Christian-centric curriculum and a community that inspires students to lean into all these changes while fostering their faith and their focus on modeling a Christ-centered life.

It’s not an easy feat to be an educational institution that promises to do all that, but Crown College believes its mission, vision,

and values all contribute to an intimate college experience, whether it be undergraduate, graduate, or PSEO opportunities, that will set them apart from other private Christian schools, and certainly secular universities. Students at Crown College are part of a culture where friends and faculty affirm their faith, spend time in prayer, and grapple with life’s toughest issues together. They believe the years you spend in college are a time to set a firm foundation through the deep nurturing and development of all relationships. This framework allows graduates to feel better equipped to tackle a different set of trials and tribulations as they embark on yet another new adventure.

For Crown College, deciding to pursue a higher education and choosing where to go isn’t just a leap of faith, it’s a leap into your faith along with academic excellence and a community like no other.

A JOURNEY TOWARDS BOOSTING SELF-ESTEEM

ARTICLE BY AMY JANZEN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KRISTIN KRAEMER

EMPOWERING ADOLESCENT GIRLS

weekly sessions, teaching and coaching with other female mentors. The girls are introduced to skills and tools that can grow with them as they navigate the often emotional and difficult middle school and high school years ahead.

BIO Girls originated in North Dakota and has been expanding its reach. BIO Girls believes in the inherent worth and limitless potential of every girl. The acronym “BIO” represents their core value; Beautiful Inside & Out. Through engaging activities, workshops, and interactions with successful women, it aims to create a supportive community with positive role models that motivate and guide girls. By nurturing the whole girl, BIO Girls helps build a strong foundation for a lifetime of success, fulfillment, and positive contributions to society. In and out, each BIO Girl counts.

Adolescence is a critical stage of development, marked by numerous physical, emotional, and social changes. For adolescent girls, this period can be particularly challenging as they navigate through the complexities of identity formation, peer pressure, and societal expectations. One crucial aspect that demands attention during this phase is the development of healthy self-esteem. Recognizing the significance of this, various strategies can be employed to empower them in their journey towards self-acceptance and confidence.

For Waconia, individuals are raising their hands to support our youth to teach skills and provide resources to strengthen that confidence. To flourish in a world that has conflicting messages about what you “should be” to feel valued, parents have the opportunity to utilize these organizations to help their children love and trust themselves. Recently, Kristin Kraemer, Certified Peer Support Specialist and owner of Dunamis Coaching, decided to fundraise for and open a site for BIO Girls, a remarkable nonprofit organization that empowers young girls and fosters their personal growth, self-esteem, and leadership skills, right here in Waconia. BIO Girls is a preventive mental wellness program, with the mission of improving the self-esteem of adolescent girls. As director, Kristin leads 12

Finishing its first full program this July, BIO Girls Waconia plans to open enrollment for a winter 2024 yoga program. As fortunate as Waconia is to have a program like this, strong foundations are encouraged to start at home. Parents can make strides to prepare not just our girls, but our boys too, to navigate their adolescent years.

PROMOTE POSITIVE BODY IMAGE:

One of the major contributors to low self-esteem is a negative body image. Emphasize the importance of inner qualities and talents rather than physical appearances. Schools, families, and media can play a pivotal role by featuring realistic portrayals of beauty and promoting healthy habits rather than unrealistic standards.

ACTIVE ENGAGEMENT:

Align your children’s personal interests by supporting their engagement in activities that enhance their self-esteem like extracurricular programs that allow them to explore their talents.

DEVELOP RESILIENCE:

Encourage them to face obstacles, learn from failures, and develop problem-solving skills that will instill a sense of competence and self-belief.

Kristin Kraemer is the site director for the new BIO Girls – Waconia.

ENCOURAGE HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS: Surround them with individuals who support and uplift them. Talk with your children about the qualities of healthy relationships, establishing boundaries, and ways to promote their assertiveness.

PROVIDE EDUCATION ON MEDIA LITERACY: Help them develop critical thinking skills so they are better able to challenge unrealistic standards and harmful stereotypes. Encourage them to question media messages and engage in constructive dialogue.

CREATE SAFE SPACES FOR EXPRESSION: Provide safe spaces for your children to express their thoughts and emotions. This can be incredibly empowering and bring a sense of belonging so they feel comfortable exploring their identities, thereby promoting self-esteem.

We have the power to equip our youth with tools to embrace their uniqueness, build confidence, and navigate the challenges of adolescence with resilience and self-assurance. With concerted efforts from schools, families, and our communities, we can inspire a generation of empowered adolescent girls, who are ready to take on the world.

Through workshops and activities, BIO Girls offers tools and skills that girls can take with them as they grow.

Physical activity is one way the group works together to promote a healthy lifestyle and positive body image.

BIO Girls strives to foster a supportive community with positive role models.

Living for Play

HOW TO BUILD YOUR KIDS A MAGICAL HIDEAWAY

Childhood play and forts go hand in hand, forming an enchanting realm where imaginations soar and adventures unfold. Children eagerly construct secret hideaways, using blankets, pillows, and whatever materials within reach. These makeshift forts became havens, offering a sanctuary from the

outside world to immerse in limitless possibilities. Within the walls of these forts, they transform into fearless pirates, intrepid explorers, or brave knights defending imaginary kingdoms. Childhood play and forts provide freedom to create our own narratives, fostering creativity, collaboration, and a sense of wonder that lingers in kids’ memories long after they outgrow those magical hideaways.

Here, we provide you an opportunity to create not only an easy and inexpensive way to create your kiddo’s outdoor fort for use of wanderlust and immersive imagination, but also with its charm, the perfect spot for the kids to lounge, relax and have snack time too.

This A-frame structure is easily customizable to any style and color scheme desired. Leave the wood bare, or add flare with paint or stain. An outdoor clubhouse provides a space that allows kids to make it their own and to let their imaginations run wild spending time outdoors.

For this project, we visited Home Depot to get all the necessary supplies. The deck is 8 x 10 so there is no need to cut down the length of any boards. Pressure treated wood was used. First, dig holes 18 inches down to put the footers, which is a 4 x 4 x 8 treated post and cut it into two foot lengths. Next, pour quick set concrete in the holes. Add water, and set the posts in and let it dry. We used lag screws to attach the base 2 x 10’s to the corner posts, and then 2 x 6’s for the joists with metal hangers. Now time to put on the decking boards with exterior screws. Don’t forget to constantly check with a level. Once the decking is finished, it’s time for fun!

For the A-frame you need a 60-degree angle at the top of the A, and a 30-degree angle at the bottom. You can run a 4 x 4 along the decking to attach the A-frame to, which adds a bit of height so adults can stand in it as well. Use heavy duty exterior screws to attach the A-frame 2 x 4’s to the structure. The top of the A comes

together and is held by exterior screws. For the roofing, we used 8-foot corrugated clear panels and screwed those into the A-frame for a weather protecting cover. We left three feet uncovered so a chair and some pots with herbs and flowers could be added to the entrance. Decorate with outdoor pillows, a children’s table, outdoor rug and hanging flower pots to make it feel like a special place for kids to go. If entertaining friends, a few simple charcuterie boards are always a hit.

The realm of kids’ play and imagination is a treasured and vital aspect of childhood. It not only fosters creativity, problem-solving skills, and cognitive development but also serves as an outlet for self-expression and emotional growth. It is within the worlds of these make-believe kingdoms and fantastical scenarios that children discover the essence of joy, curiosity, and uninhibited wonder. As parents, we get to encourage and create sacred spaces like this to plant the seeds of creativity. Enjoy these memories and use this hideaway as a way to preserve the magic of living for play.

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD |

BY JANIE JONES

For the Love of Dogs

NEW DOG SUPPLEMENTS CAN HELP YOUR BEST FRIEND

The tail wag when you walk in the door. The eyes that look deep into your soul. The greeting when you return from the grocery store as if you’ve returned from war.

That’s love from a dog.

American humorist Josh Billings said, “A dog is the only thing on Earth that loves you more than he loves himself.”

ARTICLE BY LUTIE RONGLIEN

PHOTOGRAPHY BY PET MATRX

Anyone who owns a dog knows this is true. That’s why we have support dogs, therapy dogs, search and rescue dogs, dogs that help soldiers with PTSD, and K-9s who run fearlessly into the most dangerous situations for the people they love. Too often this comes at a price that costs them their lives.

Tracy, her husband Eric, Lucky, and Jaxon pose for a family photo.

Why do they do this? Because we tell them to, and our dogs will do whatever it takes to make us happy. Mayo Clinic research tells us that owning a dog keeps us fit, lowers our blood pressure, and boosts our happiness. For those of us who want to return the favor to our best friends, we’ll do whatever it takes to keep them healthy.

In recent years, the pet industry has boomed. Pet owners will do everything they can to make their pets’ lives more enjoyable and increase their time with us. We no longer just provide them with food, water, and shelter. We buy them custom-made collars, throw birthday parties, and never go through the coffee shop drive-through without getting them a treat of their own.

Tracy Langheinrich, of Calming Waters Wellness Center in Victoria, is one of the founders of Pet Matrx, http://www.petmatrx.com/, a company offering high-quality supplements for dogs. The supplements are offered in what she calls the “3-pillar approach” to a healthy dog. One offers anti-inflammation and mobility support, another offers immunity and gut support, and the last supplement offers nervous system and cognitive support. Langheinrich says dogs can take all three for the full 3-pillar approach.

Pet Matrx supplements can improve the overall health of your dog as well as help with issues like digestion and allergies.

“The supplements help dogs with everything from their reactions to loud noises to digestive issues,” Langheinrich says.

Her own golden retrievers, Jaxon and Lucky, have been taking these supplements to help with their overall health and other specific issues. Jaxon has been on a combination of anti-seizure medications since developing seizures after taking a flea and tick medicine. Since using Pet Matrx supplements, Jaxon’s had fewer seizures, and the side effects from the anti-seizure medications have gotten better. The supplements have

also helped Lucky, her other golden retriever, with the endless itching from seasonal irritations to his skin.

You can meet Tracy and learn more about PetMatrx supplements at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum for All About Dogs Day on August 12, 9:00 am - 1:00 pm. Bring your dog to participate in several events, including ‘doga’ (dog yoga), agility demos, and contests. This event, which will showcase approximately 40 other unique vendors, offers an opportunity to learn and have fun with your dog in tow. Tickets are available at https:// arb.umn.edu/events/allaboutdogsday

Getting your

Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. (CFP Board) owns the CFP ® certification mark, the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ certification mark, and the CFP ® certification mark (with plaque design) logo in the United States, which it authorizes use of by individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements. Thrivent is the marketing name for Thrivent Financial for Lutherans. Insurance products issued by Thrivent. Not available in all states. Securities and investment advisory services offered through Thrivent Investment Management Inc., a registered investment adviser, member FINRA and SIPC, and a subsidiary of Thrivent. Licensed agent/producer of Thrivent. Registered representative of Thrivent Investment Management Inc. Thrivent.com/disclosures. Thrivent provides advice and guidance through its Financial Planning Framework that generally includes a review and analysis of a client’s financial situation. A client may choose to further their planning engagement with Thrivent through its Dedicated Planning Services (an investment advisory service) that results in written recommendations for a fee. Insurance products, securities and investment advisory services are provided by appropriately appointed and licensed financial advisors and professionals. Only individuals who are financial advisors are credentialed to provide investment advisory services. Visit Thrivent.com or FINRA’s BrokerCheck

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

Pet Family Super Storytime

WACONIA LIBRARY | 6:30 PM

Families don’t just include those of the people variety; pets are also part of the family tree. They’re fluffy and scaley, exotic and common. Some talk and others have their own signature sounds, but our love for them is a common thread. Celebrate them with music, stories, movement, and a craft from 6:30 – 7:00 pm.

https://www.carverlib.org/home

All About Dogs Day

MINNESOTA LANDSCAPE ARBORETUM | 9:00 AM

Four-legged friends aren’t usually allowed in the main gardens at the Arboretum but on August 12th, for All About Dogs Day, they’re VIPs! Walk the trails, meet other dog parents, visit the Pet Expo for dog yoga, and shop 40 different pet vendors! Find healthy supplements from Pet Matrx or grab homemade dog treats from Gizmo’s Bistro. Register at https://arb.umn.edu/events/allaboutdogsday

Dairy Fun and Games with Dairy Princesses and Ambassadors

CARVER COUNTY FAIR | 11:00 AM

There are two chances to play with the Minnesota dairy princesses and ambassadors at the Carver County Fair! Mark 11:00 am or 1:00 pm on your fair itinerary and visit the Dairy and Beef Barn to meet and play games. It’s not every day you get to spend time with a real-life princess! There’s even more fun at https://www.carvercountyfair.com/.

Amateur Talent Contest

CARVER COUNTY FAIR | 1:00 PM

Grab a seat and get ready to be impressed watching the Amateur Talent Contest at the Carver County Fair. The show kicks off at 1:00 pm in the Entertainment Center and will include three divisions sharing their special talents. Get your clapping hands ready to cheer on these courageous, gifted individuals. Check out https://www.carvercountyfair.com/ for more information.

Cologne Firehouse Drive-in COLOGNE, MINNESOTA

Two nights of family-friendly enjoyment are awaiting you at the Cologne Firehouse Drive-in, an annual fundraiser supporting the Cologne Fire Department. Buy passes for August 18th, 19th, or both, and let the fun begin! Fire truck rides, the Drive-in movie at dusk, and more are included with your pass. There will also be food for purchase. Learn more at https://firehousedrivein.com/

The 162nd Stiftungsfest

NORWOOD YOUNG AMERICA, MINNESOTA

This summer, Stiftungfest, a German celebration in Norwood Young America, is commemorating its 162nd year! There will be food, music, a firefighter challenge, family-friendly activities, food, beverages, a 5K run, and so much more. It’s a great way to get that end-of-summer fun in! Learn a little history about this highly anticipated event and check the schedule at https://stiftungsfest.org/.

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