Arts + Culture

Paws and Prose

Dakota Horan writes about the dogs she loves. Article by Florence Daniels | Photography by Ashley Blake Dakota's mom, Julie Horan, started a dog day care business in 2020 as a bit of extra income. Soon they were not only surrounded by dogs and really enjoying the work. Julie says Dakota got very involved, playing with the dogs and helping to care for them. 'I call her the dog whisperer.' laughed Julie. The benefits were mutual however, Julie says that caring for the animals taught Dakota...

Health + Wellness

State of Mind

Unlock the power of your teenager's mind. Article by Florence Daniels | Photography by Jenny Kaufman In a quiet, dimly lit room, I observed a teen client snuggled comfortably beneath a blanket listening to Quinton's voice with eyes closed. The teenager was asked to imagine several scenes from a busy city to a serene forest. After a few exercises, they were asked to imagine a scenario they normally find stressful... taking an exam at school. 'Can you see the classroom?' asked Quinton Webb, a...

Food + Beverage

After School Snacks

Get inventive and delicious with these easy to make snacks. Article by Breanna Vega | Photography by Ashley Blake Breanna Vega is an Arizona native, homeschool mother to 2, certified teacher and cottage bakery operator. She is a contributing writer for Queen Creek lifestyle magazine and small business owner, creating opportunities for other Christian homeschool families to connect. Breanna also makes adaptogen chocolates, a variety of sweet treats and non toxic home goods. You can find her...

Arts + Culture

Inspiring Passions

Rick Dejesus shares how he inspires his kids. Article by Florence Daniels | Photography by Kaeden Peterson When you ask your kids what do they want to be when they grow up (depending on the age) they might answer veterinarian, or fire fighter, or you might even hear YouTube star. How about rock star? Rick Dejesus, lead singer of Adelita's Way, understands how our passions can shape us. From a young age, music inspired him and Rick sees the value in having that deep love for something to propel...

Education

Unplug To Level Up

Decreased screen time for increased success. Article by Lisa Horne | Photography by Ashley Blake Going Old School by Going Low-Tech Growing up in the 80s, I remember every “high-tech” device we owned—mainly because there were so few. Our giant wood-framed TV had just two dials and a foil-wrapped antenna we adjusted constantly. TV shows ended at night with color bars signaling no further broadcasting until morning. I used a typewriter for school papers, played Oregon Trail on floppy disks...

Local Services

Second Chances

Angel's Wings Pet Rescue gives needy pets a new life. Article by Jared Orr | Photography by Kaeden Peterson In 2012, a scared, overbred pup named Angel was on the brink of euthanasia in a California shelter, discarded by a breeder and forgotten by the world. But for Michelle McMains, Angel’s story wasn’t going to end there. She and her son drove through the night to save her, and by morning, they had rescued not only Angel but four other desperate dogs. That pivotal moment gave birth to On...

Arts + Culture

Tlaquepaque

A small slice of another time nestled in Sedona. Article and Photography by Florence Daniels Walking around Tlaquepaque (pronounced Tla-Kay-Pa-Kee), you feel as though you have discovered a secluded place from another time. The name itself means 'best of everything', and the beautiful surroundings certainly live up to it. The splashing of fountains, the ivy covered balconies, the old columns, and mature trees casting dappled sunlight upon the cobblestones all create a world unto itself, right...

Arts + Culture

Explore Pinal

Pinal County is full of adventure and fun. Article by Florence Daniels | Photography by Pinal County 1. Biosphere The world's largest controlled environment. 2. Arizona Zipline Adventures Experience the desert from new heights. 3. Peralta Regional Park Hiking and camping in the beauty of the Sonoran desert. 4. Goldfield Ghost Town Stage gun fights, shopping, rides, and more. 5. MD Ranch Offering horse rides through San Tan Mountain Regional Park. For more entertainment...

Food + Beverage

Fourth of July Flavors

Taste the red, white, and blue. Article by Florence Daniels | Photography by Ashley Blake Sage and Barrel have whipped up a fun cocktail to ring in America's birthday. Try out this new recipe which marries flavors of coconut and pineapple just in time for you to enjoy as you watch the fireworks. Cool and refreshing on a hot day, you'll bring a touch of the beach to the desert. Chef Chip Kennedy uses his creativity to bring the red, white, and blue to a patriotic twist on a funnel cake with...

Local Services

Desert Days and Cowgirl Weekends

Escape to the desert. Article by Jared Orr | Photography by Marilyn Van De Graaff For Max and Elle Dewitt,  Ride Out Ranch started as a remote family getaway in Florence, Arizona,  and has transformed into a soulful desert escape for horse lovers, adventurers, and those needing to unplug from the noise of everyday life. “When we first bought the land, my dad kind of had a doomsday mindset,” Max laughs. “But the zombie apocalypse never came.” Instead, the land became something much more...