LIFESTYLE
NWF:
Francisco Hinojosa Community Association Manager Francisco.Hinojosa@TeamEsplanade.com
Billy Gougherty Resort Director Billy.Gougherty@TeamEsplanade.com
10211 Madeira Ranch Drive Elk Grove, CA 95757 Onsite: 916-209-6861
EsplanadeMadeiraRanchLifestyle.com 800-720-0028
Service Hours: Mon-Fri, 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Geno Ivaldi DRE#01309688 GIvaldi@TaylorMorrison.com
Sonya Meyer DRE#02103416 SoMeyer@TaylorMorrison.com
Letter From the Lifestyle Team
BILLY GOUGHERTY YOUR RESORT DIRECTOR
The Holiday Season is Here!
As we move into the festive months of November and December, our community comes alive with the warmth of the season. From cozy morning strolls to cheerful evenings spent with neighbors, these final weeks of the year are a chance to slow down, connect, and celebrate together. We had such a fun October, and are so happy that events here are now entering their second year of being in full swing.
The Lodge is making great progress as well! It is so exciting to see the changes weekly, such as the beautiful windows, warm siding, and large roof!
We invite you to embrace everything that makes life here so special, whether it’s joining a spirited game of pickleball, gathering for a holiday-themed event, or taking a quiet moment to reflect on the year gone by. With festive celebrations, seasonal socials, and opportunities to ring in the New Year side by side, there’s something for everyone to enjoy as we close out 2025 on a joyful note.
Be sure to check the calendar and stay connected as we make the most of these warm, joyful months together. We can’t wait to see you out and about at Esplanade at Madeira Ranch!
Ashley Thao
YOUR RESORT LIFESTYLE STAFF
Last month we featured Katie in our Team Spotlight, and this month… well, we didn’t have to look far! Please give a warm welcome to Katie’s twin, Ashley—no, you’re not seeing double. (We promise this isn’t a “Buy One, Get One Free” deal, but we sure got lucky with this duo!) Ashley is also attending school and, in addition to her studies, she’s the creative mind behind all the adorable Snoopy drawings you’ve been seeing around. When she’s not sketching Snoopy, she’s busy showing off her talents as a very skilled barista, making sure your coffee is just right. Be sure to say, “Hi” to Ashley next time you stop by the café!
Whole-Person Wellness
At Esplanade, life is built on three guiding pillars: Mind, Body, and Spirit. These reflect our commitment to wholeperson wellness and the belief that nurturing every part of ourselves leads to a more balanced, fulfilling life. Whether it’s engaging in meaningful social activities, strengthening your body through movement, or finding peace for your spirit, Esplanade is here to support your journey.
Did you know that even a 20-minute walk each day can boost your mood, reduce stress, and improve heart health? Small steps create big results. Together, let’s embrace a lifestyle of joy, vitality, and meaningful connections.
Is Your Yard Hummingbird-Friendly?
In the fall, Florida sees the southward migration of millions of hummingbirds, primarily Ruby-throated Hummingbirds, with some Rufous Hummingbirds also appearing and staying through the winter. Hummingbirds are an important part of our native ecosystem. Learn how you can provide hummingbirds with the habitat essentials they need to survive. For Hummingbird-Friendly Gardening, scan the QR code. To learn more about feeding Hummingbirds through natural sources provided by native plants and insects, visit www.nwf.org/ Native-Plant-Habitats/Resources/Tips-Tools-andVideos/Hummingbird-Feeders.
Tree LightingCeremony
Wednesday, December 3
5 p.m. Sales Gallery
Join us to kick off the festive season during our Tree Lighting Ceremony! Join us for laughter, fun and community as we gather around the tree, sip festive drinks, enjoy sweet treats, and anticipate a great holiday season!
Cindy & Ed Redford
The Members of our community are truly what make this a wonderful place to live. In each edition, we will spotlight a Member, couple or family to showcase the amazing people that call our community home. If you would like to be featured or want to nominate another Member, please contact your Resort Manager.
Married since 1988, Cindy and Ed first met while playing volleyball in a Sacramento singles league. After serving four years in the Air Force, Ed earned his business degree from Sacramento State, while Cindy pursued a music degree at Hayward State University.
Ed went on to enjoy a 38-year career with C & S Wholesale Distributing. Their daughter, Elizabeth, is now married and living in San Francisco. At age 50, Cindy became a Certified Personal Trainer at 24 Hour Fitness, later achieving the title of Master Trainer with specializations in Senior Fitness and Women’s Fitness.
Together, Cindy and Ed share a love of cruise travel and are excited to join the Esplanade community after nearly 30 years in their two-story home. Cindy also has a passion for cooking, and when they’re not in the kitchen, you’ll often find them relaxing on their corner front porch with their cat, Gumdrop—where neighbors are always welcome to stop by for a cup of coffee or iced tea.
Furry Friends
Meet Duke & Maya LOVED BY KARIN ____
This edition’s Furry Friends are Duke and Maya - the real stars of the porch around here! Maya’s tail-wags are better than any alarm clock, and Duke’s cuddles? They’re basically a weighted blanket with a heartbeat. Together, we’ve mastered the art of turning every day into a new adventure. Life here at Esplanade at Madeira Ranch is pretty great—there are endless walks, friendly faces, and more belly rubs than we can count. The neighbors are always ready with a smile, a treat, or a story (we approve of all three).
Oh, and about our human; after raising her boys up the hill in Placerville, Karin and her mom, JoAnn, moved here with us. We make sure she enjoys all the best things in life—good food, great company, and of course, us. Make sure to catch us at the next porch party!
Exclusive Concierge Offerings
Part of the Esplanade Lifestyle is rolling out the red carpet and giving our Members VIP access to exclusive offers and services! We are excited to continue to build and foster these relationships with local organizations and businesses to offer special rates for our community. If you know of a business or organization that would like to partner with Esplanade, please contact your Lifestyle Manager. Check out more details at esplanademadeiraranchlifestyle.com/concierge.
CAREFREE BOAT CLUB
Carefree Boat Club offers Members exclusive access to stress-free boating at incredible rates! Members can choose from the Experience Package ($1,999 initiation, $199/month), which includes 10 half-day uses annually and the ability to upgrade to unlimited membership within a year, or enjoy 50% off initiation and $100 off monthly dues for unlimited plans. Both options provide access to foreign boating locations and the opportunity to explore the water without the hassle of ownership. Additional perks include a finder’s fee program and rewards for community participation. Ready to set sail? Contact your Lifestyle team for more details!
HILTON GARDEN INN
Looking for extra space when family comes to town? Esplanade at Madeira Ranch Members enjoy an exclusive 15% discount on standard room rates at the Hilton Garden Inn, conveniently located just a short drive from our community at 9241 Laguna Springs Drive. The Hilton Garden Inn is perfect for hosting extended family, offering comfortable accommodations and a fantastic breakfast buffet to start the day off right. To take advantage of this special rate, simply contact Billy directly for booking details. This is just one of the many ways we strive to make your resort-style lifestyle even more enjoyable!
FINLEY PEST CONTROL
CADENCE BIKE
We’re excited to spotlight Cadence Bike, our local concierge partner specializing in fullservice bike sales and repairs—with a focus on electric bikes. Owned and operated by Elk Grove local Jeff, Cadence Bike is known for its personalized service and communityfocused approach. Whether you’re just curious about e-bikes or ready to ride, Jeff will walk you through the options, provide test rides, and offer guidance every step of the way. As a special perk, Cadence Bike offers exclusive discounts and service packages just for Esplanade at Madeira Ranch Members. Thinking about cruising the neighborhood on two wheels? Jeff and Cadence Bike are here to help you ride in style and confidence.
Esplanade is proud to announce Finley Pest Control as our new Concierge partner! As a trusted partner, Finley is offering $99 off first time consultation exclusively for Esplanade at Madeira Ranch. Contact Ben at Ben@finleypest.com and mention Esplanade at Madeira Ranch to use this awesome discount.
Around Town
ILLUMINATION FESTIVAL
Saturday, December 6 | 3 - 8 p.m. District 56 | www.exploreelkgrove.com
This free, family-friendly event offers festive food, live entertainment, cultural celebrations, and joyful surprises. Enjoy shopping in the Americana Vintage Vendor Village, seasonal eats, photos with Santa, and fun for the kids including holiday inflatables, games and synthetic ice skating. Plus, don’t miss the beloved Holiday Parade of Lights at 6 p.m., presented by the Elk Grove Lions Club, followed by a magical tree lighting and snowfall finale.
Recent Events
Paint and Sip NIGHT
Our Paint and Sip Night was a masterpiece of fun! Neighbors gathered with brushes in one hand and wine glasses in the other, creating colorful works of art and plenty of laughter along the way.
Lodi Wine Trip with CHEF FLO AND PATRICK
What a day in wine country! Members joined Chef Flo and Patrick for an unforgettable trip to Lodi, enjoying beautiful vineyards, delicious tastings, and stories regarding Patrick’s last trip with other Esplanade Members to Portugal.
Super Hero Smash PICKLEBALL TOURNAMENT
Heroes truly smashed it on the courts! Our Super Hero Smash Pickleball Tournament brought out colorful costumes, great rallies, and plenty of superhero spirit. A fun reminder that community play is our real superpower.
Karaoke NIGHT
Karaoke Night was a hit! From timeless classics to guilty pleasures, our Members lit up the stage and the crowd sang along. It was an evening filled with music, laughter, and plenty of star power.
Recent Events
Tuna Tartare DEMONSTRATION
Chef Flo wowed the crowd with his Tuna Tartare Demonstration. From fresh ingredients to finishing touches, Members watched (and tasted!) as he turned a simple dish into a gourmet experience.
National Chocolate MILKSHAKE DAY
We raised a glass (or two) to National Chocolate Milkshake Day! Chef Flo whipped up rich, creamy shakes that had everyone smiling. A sweet way to celebrate together and toast to nostalgia. Remember, the “twang” was vanilla yogurt!
Fitness Classes
Discover the perfect balance of movement, mindfulness, and community with our vibrant fitness classes—now held in the brand-new Racquet Center Studio! Relax and restore with Yoga, get your energy flowing with Zumba, find balance and mindfulness in Tai Chi, and move with Stretch Yourself. These classes are designed for all fitness levels and provide a wonderful way to connect with neighbors while taking care of your health. We’re excited to introduce new and engaging classes for our Members—stay tuned for more!
YOGA WITH EILEEN
Tuesdays | 10 a.m. | Racquet Center Studio
Yin Yoga is a gentle and meditative practice that focuses on deep stretching, relaxation, and mindfulness. By holding poses for an extended time, you’ll experience improved flexibility, enhanced joint mobility, and a sense of calm and balance. It’s the perfect way to slow down, unwind, and reconnect with your body and mind. Whether you’re new to yoga or a seasoned practitioner, Yin Yoga is an excellent way to nurture your well-being. Come experience this peaceful practice and see the benefits for yourself!
TAI CHI
Select Thursdays | 10 a.m. | Racquet Center Studio
Join us for Tai Chi with our instructor, Ou! Tai Chi promotes balance, flexibility, and relaxation, making it an ideal practice for improving overall well-being without putting stress on the body. Its low-impact nature also helps enhance joint health and reduce stress while improving mental focus. Please arrive 10 minutes early to obtain a great spot. Please feel free to bring a water and fitness towel.
ZUMBA WITH DEENA
Select Thursdays | 10 a.m. | Racquet Center Studio
Zumba is a fun, high-energy dance workout set to catchy music that combines fast and slow rhythms for a full-body workout. It’s perfect for all fitness levels, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned athlete! With easy-to-follow moves, Zumba keeps you engaged while improving your cardiovascular health, strength, and flexibility. Whether you’re looking to burn calories, boost your mood, or just have a good time, Zumba is the perfect way to get moving and groove with your neighbors! Come join us and feel the rhythm!
STRETCH YOURSELF
Select Wednesdays | 10 a.m. | Racquet Center Studio
This restorative session will guide you through gentle stretching, increase body awareness, provide tools for releasing tension, and open pathways to stillness and rejuvenation. Please arrive 10 minutes early to obtain a great spot. Please bring a yoga mat, a fitness towel, and a bottle of water for yourself. The max for each class is eight people.
Social Groups
Discover the vibrant social scene at Esplanade with our expanding range of groups! Take a leisurely walk with our Walking Group on monthly strolls through the neighborhood, get your heart pumping with our bi-weekly 5K Group, enjoy some friendly competition at our Bunco Group, or test your strategy skills with our Bridge Group. These gatherings are great for staying active, meeting neighbors, and having fun! Have an idea for a new group or activity? We’d love to help make it happen! Reach out to your Lifestyle team to share your vision. The Lifestyle team will provide the application and then help to facilitate promotion of activities developed by the Members. Depending on the group size and activity, we may have a suitable space for your gatherings.
Current Social Groups
BRIDGE CLUB
Dates & Times Vary
See Website Calendar
Sharpen your strategy skills with Bridge Club. Whether you’re a seasoned player or completely new to the game, this is the perfect opportunity to join in! Bridge is a fun and social card game that’s easy to learn, and we’re here to guide you through the basics if you’ve never played before. It’s a great way to exercise your mind, meet new friends, and have fun with your neighbors. Contact your Lifestyle Manager for more details.
WALKING CLUB
Dates & Times Vary
See Website Calendar
Join our Walking Club for monthly strolls through the neighborhood. Contact your Lifestyle Manager for more details.
BUNCO CLUB
Dates & Times Vary
See Website Calendar
Connect with neighbors in friendly competition. Bunco is a simple, fast-paced dice game perfect for everyone. It’s easy to learn, and we’ll walk you through the basics before we begin. It’s the perfect game combining a little bit of luck with a whole lot of fun and a great way to meet new friends. Contact your Lifestyle Manager for details.
Pickled Pink Pickleball Tournament
On Saturday, October 18, Members gathered for Esplanade’s annual Pickled Pink Pickleball Tournament ....
Holiday Peppermint Chocolate Swirl Brownies
BROWNIE INGREDIENTS
» 1 box brownie mix (or your favorite homemade recipe)
» 2 eggs
» 3 tablespoons water
» 1/2 cup olive oil or 1 1/4 cup of softened butter
SWIRL INGREDIENTS
» ½ cup crushed peppermint candies (or candy canes)
» 4 oz cream cheese, softened
» ¼ cup sugar
» 1 egg yolk
» ½ tsp vanilla extract
» ½ cup white chocolate chips
» Optional: festive sprinkles or candy
DIRECTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Prepare brownie batter according to package or recipe directions. Pour into the prepared pan.
3. Make the swirl mixture: In a small bowl, mix cream cheese, sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Swirl it in: Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture on top of the brownie batter. Use a knife to gently swirl through.
5. Sprinkle the top with crushed peppermint candies and white chocolate chips.
6. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until set. Cool completely before cutting into squares.
7. Finish with extra crushed candy canes or sprinkles for a festive touch.
8. Serving idea: Stack them on a holiday platter with a few candy canes tucked in between. They look gorgeous and taste like Christmas in every bite!