Life + Culture

Life Minded

February is for (BOOK) lovers Article by Jen Fortner There was a national article filling my social media recently about how high school students no longer read. As in, one or two books a year in school. I can confirm this. Last year, my son (a Sophomore) asked for editing help for his final paper on The Great Gatsby . As I prepared myself to correct 400 grammar errors without permanently damaging our relationship, I come to find out, he never read the book. The class didn’t read the book...

Health + Wellness

A Spa Approach to Dentistry

Reflections Dental Studio provides ethical, transparent care designed around your comfort. Article by Annie Doran | Photography by Lydia Venjohn, Venlo Studio ​​​​​​For many people, visiting the dentist feels like something to endure rather than something to look forward to. The atmosphere of a typical office, the pressure of tight appointment windows, and the constant question of what insurance will approve can make the experience feel rushed, cold, or confusing. Reflections Dental Studio is...

Life + Culture

The Story Starts Here

How the SouthWest Metro Area Imagination Library Chapter is inspiring a love of reading Article by Sara Hoeman Dolly Parton’s famous Imagination Library has been gifting children all over the world with free books for over 30 years. Spreading a love and appreciation of reading, improving literacy rates, and inspiring future writers and readers is the cornerstone of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.  Since the library began, over 275 million books have been distributed around the world to...

Home + Design

Built to Last

How Fern+Fable’s custom, locally handcrafted furniture is designed to last a lifetime Article by Kendra Johnson Have you ever pined after an old family heirloom? Maybe it’s your grandmother’s wedding ring or your great-grandfather’s pocket watch. For me, it was my grandparents’ dining room table. Once a month, we would eat dinner at that table and talk and laugh for hours. I remember feeling devastated when I found out they sold it. To me, that piece of furniture symbolized all the lovely...

Shopping

A Valentine’s Day Worth Remembering

Inside Gunderson’s curated guide to romantic gifts – from modern diamond jewelry to watches with legendary legacy. Article by Sarah Knieff Valentine’s Day is about more than a single moment – it’s about celebrating a relationship that continues to grow. At Gunderson’s Jewelers, that philosophy is at the heart of everything they do. As a third-generation, family-owned business, Gunderson’s has built its reputation on helping customers mark life’s milestones with meaning, craftsmanship, and...

Arts + Culture

Birds of a Different Feather

The work of mixed media artist Patty Carmody Smith Article by Graham Johnson | Photography by Peter Lee These birds have flown across the country, perched on mosaic bases, and been decorated with vines and leaves and meticulously painted.  The stylized birds have become a calling card of mixed media artist Patty Carmody Smith. The idea for the bird sculptures came originally from a 2009 trip to Yellowstone, where Patty was inspired by the ravens in the park and the bird-themed art in nearby...

Sports + Recreation

Stepping Up to the Plate

How the West Metro Miracle League is making baseball accessible to all abilities Article by Lauren Beaubaire “Every child should have the opportunity to play a sport, regardless of ability. It’s where we develop friendships and build confidence,” emphasizes Tonya Andruskiewicz, director of West Metro Miracle League.  And that is exactly the mission behind the West Metro Miracle League — to create the opportunity to play baseball for people of all abilities. The Miracle League gives kids with...

Professional Services

A Dog-Gone Great Idea this Valentine's Day

How these local organizations are helping people and pets find their perfect match Article by Rebecca Hahn Google defines the word “friend” as someone who has a connection or relationship with you and is not a member of your family. When I was 16, my mother told me that if I could count on one hand five true friends over my lifetime, that I had been a lucky girl. Hopefully, I have a bit more time to find number five, unless I can count my dog? Our world today has many challenges that can...

Finance + Legal Services

AskSusan - January Column

Susan is at it again! It's a new year, with more helpful information on common financial questions. If you haven't seen her column, make sure to check it out and subscribe to make sure you don't miss a single topic. This month, the question revolved around, "Health & Wellness" and the idea of Financial Fitness - what it is and how to get your finances "in shape." Susan, in her uniquely down to earth way, touched on a few simple ways to get started. And then, by clicking the video QR code...

Home Services

Kinetico® Water in the New Year

Another year is coming to a close. Most of us take time to reflect on the year, our progress, and reassess our priorities. I personally get lost in the minutiae and hone in on little pieces of the puzzle to solve, often missing big picture things that have a trickle effect. I get overwhelmed and disappointed when my efforts do not create the impact of change I was hoping for. If you are like me, you may just need your next decision to be focused on larger impact. That's why I love working for...