FEBRUARY 2020
LifestylePubs.com/Meridian
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Carving a New Experience
Endless servings of flame-grilled meats cooked over a wood-charcoal fire Chef-crafted gourmet salad area Ultimate caipirinhas, award-winning wines and much more! The Village at Meridian 208.314.3474 Serving Dinner Nightly Happy Hour Monday - Friday | 4:30 - 6:00 PM
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LIFESTYLE LETTER
FEBRUARY 2020 PUBLISHER
Richard Meyer | richard.meyer@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Julie Meyer | julie.meyer@lifestylepubs.com STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Charles Knowles | knowlesgallery@yahoo.com
Local's Choice WE ARE PLEASED TO PRESENT OUR SPECIAL “LOCAL’S CHOICE” ISSUE
AD DESIGNER
Chad Jensen LAYOUT DESIGNER
Dani Moore
FEATURING SOME OF THE TREASURE VALLEYS LARGEST “INFLUENCERS”.
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
After introducing each influencer, each will share some of their favorite local busi-
Julie Meyer
nesses along with more information about why or how that business has made an impression on them. Want more? Check out additional influencers in our sister publication, Boise Lifestyle at at BoiseLifestylePubs.com
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Asia Elizabeth, Corrie Butler, Chantel Moorhouse., Travis J Photography, Megan Hurt, Todd Nichols, Valerie Garrett, Carrie Elton
We also wanted to let you know that after almost one wonderful year of publishing the new Meridian Lifestyle luxury magazine as well as almost three years publishing Boise Lifestyle magazine, we have set our eyes on our next adventure. As this issue will be the last under our ownership, we are pleased to introduce you to the new publisher, Greg Gewalt who will be taking the reins beginning with the March issue. Look for his introduction next month.
CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore
It has been our pleasure to support our local community and highlight the good news
ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor
of our wonderful city and state of Idaho. The relationships, business partners, and
OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson
friends we have made over the past three years have enriched our lives and blessed
AD MANAGER Chad Jensen
us tremendously. We are so grateful to have had this opportunity and are equally
REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams
excited about our new ventures to come.
WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell
If you are interested in following our adventures, please follow us on Facebook at Facebook.com/TasteTreasureValley. From our family to yours, we wish you a blessed and productive 2020 and look forward to serving you and your family, our community, and our neighbors in the years to come.
ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MASSACHUSETTS | MICHIGAN MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA | NEVADA | NEW JERSEY | NEW YORK NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | PENNSYLVANIA
Richard Meyer, Publisher
SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON
Richard.Meyer@LifestylePubs.com 208.817.0660 514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO
ON
THE
COVER
Social
Media
Proverbs 3:5-6
Influencers Local Favorites
Meridian Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via
PHOTOGRAPHY BY NOÉMI
and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of
MACAVEI-KATÓCZ ON UNSPLASH 4
LifestylePubs.com/Meridian
Meridian Lifestyle | February 2020
the US Postal Service to some of the Meridian areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Meridian Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
NEST
NEST
at the corner of Eagle Road & Chinden Blvd Eagle, Idaho
N E S T At The Village www.thenestboise.com
INSIDE THE ISSUE FEBRUARY 2020
FEATURES 12 Mount Regan and Sawtooth Lake Sawtooth National Forest With Summer Wildflowers
14 Raspberry Bread Pudding A Warm and Comforting Winter Treat
17 Local Favorites Social Media Influencers Recommend Their Favorite Businesses
34 Inspired By Success Carson Sofro, Global Founder /
17 14
Director of HSBCAMPS & HSB Academy
34
12
DEPARTMENTS 4
Lifestyle Letter
8
Good Times
10
Around Town
12
Artist’s Palette
14
Culinary Creations
26 Giving Back 28 Renovate & Refine 33 Lifestyle Calendar 34 Parting Thoughts
Now Open Extended Hours 7 am - 7 pm *7 days a week
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Call 208-854-1877 viewpointwindows.com February 2020 | Meridian Lifestyle
7
GOOD TIMES
Smart Foodservice Warehouse Grand Opening November 12, 2019 was the grand opening and ribbon cutting of new Meridian Smart Foodservice Warehouse at 1560 N Hickory Ave, Meridian. The new store is open for businesses and to the public, no membership needed! General manager Jason Barclay held the scissors for the ribbon cutting. SmartFoodservice.com PHOTOGRAPHY BY VALERIE GARRETT
HOT TUBS | POOLS | SAUNAS | BILLIARD TABLES | ENDLESS SWIM SYSTEMS | SWIM SPAS | WATER CARE PRODUCTS | ACCESSORIES
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Call your Spa & Game Table Consultant,
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Meridian Lifestyle | February 2020
o-fish-ally
Meridian’s best
sushi
Across from Buffalo Wild Wings on Eagle Rd
208.888.5000
3210 E Louise Drive, Meridian LingandLouies.com February 2020 | Meridian Lifestyle
9
AROUND TOWN
INTELLIGENT OFFICE EXPANDS BOISE OFFICE Intelligent Office, a professional business center that currently serves over 120 clients in the 800 W Main building in downtown Boise, is significantly expanding the current office size. Intelligent Office opened its Boise location in 2014 and provides clients with administrative assistance, customer/phone support, scheduling, executive office and meeting space, mailboxes and other business needs. The expansion will add nine new offices and a
WHAT IF Y O U R C H I L D WA S
INSPIRED to
BELIEVE...
conference room, bringing the total Intelligent Office Space to 19 offices and four conference rooms. “There is a tremendous demand for virtual office services in Boise,” said Roy Eiguren, co-owner of Boise Intelligent Office. “Boise’s culture of innovation and entrepreneurship and our business-friendly environment leads businesses to want to operate in Boise. Intelligent Office provides individuals and business entities the ability to do business in Boise without the overhead of building and operating a regular office” said Joe Eiguren, co-owner. The expansion is expected to open in February.
...WITH COURAGE? At The Ambrose School, biblical truth is integrated into every subject so that your child will grow to know her
Visit boise.intelligentoffice.com to learn more about Intelligent Office Boise.
WEST ADA SCHOOL DISTRICT WINS BUDGETING AWARD The Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO) is proud to recognize Joint School District No. 2 (West Ada School District) for excellence in budget presentation with the Meritorious Budget Award (MBA) for the 2019–2020 budget year.
worth and purpose and how she fits
ASBO International’s MBA and Pathway to the MBA
into God’s perfect plan. More than
promote and recognize best budget presentation
ever our children need to know they
practices in school districts. Districts that successfully demonstrate they
can depend fully on God’s Word and
have met the necessary program requirements
to have the courage to believe.
may earn either the MBA or Pathway to the MBA, an introductory program that allows districts to ease into full MBA compliance. “Districts that apply to the MBA or Pathway to the MBA programs recognize the importance of presenting a quality, easy-to-understand budget internally and to the community,” ASBO International Executive
K - 12 Classical Christian Education 6100 N. Locust Grove | Meridian, Idaho 83646 (208) 323-3888 | theambroseschool.org
Director David J. Lewis explains. “Participating in the MBA and Pathway programs provides districts with important tools and resources they need to communicate the district’s goals and objectives clearly and illustrates their commitment to adhering to nationally recognized budget presentation standards.”
10
Meridian Lifestyle | February 2020
STUDENT ARTIST, CLARISSA GRKOVIC, WINS DESIGN CONTEST Clarissa Grkovic a 10th grader at Mountain View High school was selected as the grand prize winner for Idaho in the Youth Art Month Flag design contest based on the theme "Your Art, Your Story." Her flag was shown at the National Art Education Conference in Boston. She received a $1,000 prize and Sargent Art will donate $1,500 in art supplies to the art department at Mountain View High School.
LARRY H. MILLER DEALERSHIPS CELEBRATES A DECADE OF “DRIVING FOR COATS” CAMPAIGN Larry H. Miller Dealerships hosted its tenth annual “Driving for Coats” community coat, sock, and underwear drive to benefit the homeless community served by the Boise Rescue Mission Ministries (BRMM). New and gently used coats of all sizes were collected during the month of November to keep adults and children warm this winter. The Rescue Mission provides safe shelter to more than 400 homeless individuals and families each night during the cold winter months. A total of 230 lbs. of coats were collected this year. Boise Rescue Mission Ministries’
stay warm C O O L PEO PLE W I T H Y O RK
Enjoy Fall inside the comfort of your home.
President and CEO, Rev. Bill Roscoe said, “We appreciate the effort by Larry H. Miller Dealerships to provide warm coats for the people we serve at the Rescue Mission. Sadly, many of our guests, even children, come to us without warm clothing. These coats are a wonderful way to say, “We care!” Larry H. Miller’s employees and customers are great examples of this community’s compassion.” We are always accepting submissions for announcements you’d like to see included in our Around Town section. Submissions are
721 N. Ralstin St. Meridian | 208-336-2665
advancedheatingandcooling.com
accepted via the Contact Us tab at LifestylePubs.com/Meridian. February 2020 | Meridian Lifestyle
11
ARTIST’S PALETTE ARTICLE CHARLES KNOWLES PHOTOGRAPHY WWW.KNOWLESGALLERY.COM
Mount Regan and Sawtooth Lake wildflowers
MOUNT REGAN AND SAWTOOTH LAKE SAWTOOTH NATIONAL FOREST WITH SUMMER WILDFLOWERS THE SAWTOOTH MOUNTAINS ARE TRULY ONE OF THE GEMS OF IDAHO. I have spent many years photographing them, sometimes from different angles, different times of years, and as time has gone by with different cameras. This is a lake I have been to on more than a few occasions called Sawtooth Lake with Mount Regan. It is the largest of the lakes within the boundaries of the Sawtooth National Forest. I found this location where the wildflowers spilled into the lake. Every time I look at pictures like this one, it reminds me, and that is what brings me back to the Sawtooths year after year. I remember the tiredness in my feet from the hike, the bite of the cool air breeze, and the smell of the wilderness lake and wildflowers. 12
Meridian Lifestyle | February 2020
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13
CULINARY CREATIONS
R as p b e r ry B r e a d P u d d i n g
A WARM AND COMFORTING WINTER TREAT
Photo by Isaac Quesada on Unsplash
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Meridian Lifestyle | February 2020
raspberry bread pudding I n g r e d i e n ts + 1½ loaves firm, white bread + 1 qt. heavy cream + 3 C. sugar + 1 egg + 1 tsp. vanilla + 5 C. raspberries, fresh or frozen + 1 C. sugar + ½ C. apple juice
I n st r u ct i o n s 01 In a large bowl, combine cream, sugar, egg and vanilla and beat until well combined. 02 Let bread sit in cream mixture for 30 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes to allow cream to absorb. 03 After mixture has absorbed for 30 minutes, in a separate bowl mix the raspberries, sugar and apple juice. Stir until sugar is dissolved. 04 Layer a 9x13 inch baking pan ¾ full of the bread mix and pour fruit mixture over the bread, spreading evenly. Photo by Jo Ann Rooney
05 Top with the remaining bread. 06 Bake 40 minutes at 375 degrees F. 07 Serve warm topped with vanilla cream sauce.
VA N I L L A C R E A M SA U C E I n g r e d i e n ts + 1⅓ C. butter + 5 T. flour + 3 C. heavy cream + ½ tsp. salt + 2 tsp vanilla + ⅔ C. sugar
I n st r u ct i o n s 01 Melt butter in medium saucepan and add flour. Stir about 10 minutes until it has a nutty aroma, but make sure not to brown. Add salt, cream and sugar and stir until mixture becomes thick. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla. 02 Serve warm over the pudding.
tips 01 For nice square pieces, chill before slicing, then heat each serving in the microwave 20-30 second to serve. 02 Keep the cream sauce warm in a small crock pot until ready to serve. It tends to separate when cooled.
February 2020 | Meridian Lifestyle
15
Medical | Dental | Vision | Supplements
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Meridian Lifestyle | February 2020
Insurance Accepted
ARTICLE JULIE MEYER
SOCIAL MEDIA INFLUENCERS RECOMMEND THEIR FAVORITE BUSINESSES
CONTINUED >
February 2020 | Meridian Lifestyle
17
LOCAL FAVORITES (CONTINUED)
NATALIE PLUMMER, SOCIAL MEDIA STRATEGIST AND CREATIVE DIRECTOR OF THE INSTAGRAM PAGE HELLO MERIDIAN @HELLOMERIDIAN I’ve been working in Social Media for close to 15 years now. With all its struggles, I find it a fantastic way to encourage engagement, discussion and creativity. I love being able to offer local companies a way to get their name out to the community in such a relevant way. I’m a mom of three and wanted to create a career that allowed for time with them and my husband. Also, the entrepreneur community in the Treasure Valley is incredible and participating with such talented individuals is hugely inspiring. We love Idaho and plan to call it home forever. We travel into the mountains on a regular basis and are so grateful for the public land. We love the food and music scene of downtown Boise and the incredible array of parks available throughout the valley. It’s just a great place to live, raise a family and own a business.
Photo by Corrie Butler Photography
WIND RIVER LAWN WindRiverLawnCare.com Jake and Kayla Williams started Wind River Lawn Care with the goal of providing the highest quality full-service lawn care and landscaping. With that goal always in mind Wind River Lawn Care specializes in maintaining your oasis weekly and customizing your yard into a living space you want to show off! “I have had the best experience with Wind River Lawn Care. When doing our patio, we knew we wanted it to be a place for entertaining but had a really hard time catching a vision. The owner, Jake, is incredibly gifted at knowing what will look good and what steps are needed to improve the look of your property. We were so impressed with the detail of this project! They also specialize in sprinklers, fencing, total custom patios and lighting.”-Natalie 18
Meridian Lifestyle | February 2020
TIDY STYLE HOME TidyStyleHome.com @TIDYSTYLEHOME Tidy Style is a whole home organization company. We specialize in transforming cluttered and dysfunctional spaces into spaces that are highly functional, intuitive and beautiful with organizational systems in place that make maintenance a breeze! Whether it’s a whole room or just a closet Tidy Style can get you organized! “Tidy Style Home has had an incredible impact for our home. We’ve had our pantry, master bathroom and two closets professionally organized by owner, Heather. It is been incredible how much easier it makes our routine. Heather can create beauty out of chaos, can see the path through the clutter. She has a true gift. We can’t recommend this company enough.”-Natalie
SAVORY N SWEET
26TH STREET STUDIO
1767 Broadway Ave, Boise
310 N. 26th Street Boise
“Thanks to local Savory n Sweet, we are officially
@26STREETSTUDIO
Charcuterie Board obsessed. We have ordered from
This fresh and airy guest house located a mile
Savory n Sweet for events as large as a networking
from the center of downtown Boise, is owned
party, to as small as a weekend getaway for two.
and operated by Idaho native Sara Vandenbos.
From Charcuterie boxes to family style service, owner
Opened in 2018, this boutique rental has wel-
Catherine takes any event to the next level. Seriously
comed couples celebrating their weddings, fami-
no one walks into a room without gasping when they
lies on a staycation, and photographers shooting
see these spreads. Ever. From their hand preserved
cozy in home sessions.
candied jalapeños, fresh made jams to their perfectly
“I can’t think of a place to stay in Boise that is
selected cheeses, fruits and crackers. We could eat
more lovely than the Airbnb 26th Street Studio.
this way every single day.
It’s one of my favorite places in the entire world
It’s food presented in the most artistic, simple, and
and represents all things calm and peaceful to
appetizing way imaginable. That takes some talent
me. Owner Sara has made it a goal to provide the
and we are so happy Savory n Sweet is available for
unlimited oasis, at a great price. Every detail of
us to enjoy! And the news is out. There is rarely an
the studio as perfect and inviting as could be. If
event that happens in the Treasure Valley they aren’t
you need a place to stay in downtown Boise, this
hired to cater!”-Natalie
needs to be it.”-Natalie
Photo By Chantel Moorhouse
CONTINUED >
February 2020 | Meridian Lifestyle
19
LOCAL FAVORITES (CONTINUED)
Photo by @AsiaElizabethPhotography
RC WILLEY 3301 E Lanark Street “RC Willey has amazing customer service and of course I love a great bargain. I love the RC Willey clearance room!!”-Kari
KARI JOHNSON INSTAGRAM @GALVANIZED_CHIC_BOUTIQUE PINTREST GALVANIZEDCHICBOUTIQUE I absolutely love home decor, decorating and design. If its rusty, chippy and old I’m hooked! I love taking something old and making it new. My husband and I DIY a lot of my decor. A dream day would be finding “treasures” on an old farm or in a barn and giving it a new life.
WHAT ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT? Although I love design and decor, I’m most passionate about my family. I love watching my kids sporting events, spending time with family hiking, paddle boarding and vacationing. Most recently I enjoy being a grandma watching my sweet little grandbaby grow and learn.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT LIVING IN IDAHO? I love the people! Idahoans are amazing. I love that we get to enjoy all four seasons. I love our gorgeous mountains and lakes. Idaho summers are my favorite.
20
Meridian Lifestyle | February 2020
TEXAS ROAD HOUSE 3801 E. Fairview Drive “Let me start off with the delicious rolls! Then of course the amazing food and incredible customer service.” -Kari
Photo by by Megan Hurt
FASHION 15 BELOW 143 Main Ave. E, Twin Falls We feature over 10,000 trendy boutique style
MARGARET WILSON
selections for $15.00 or below! We cater to all sizes
208-850-6960
have items shipped out to you when you shop
with a wide selection of fashion forward clothing from sizes small-3x! You can shop us locally or
Margaret@hunterofhomes.com
online at Fashion15Below.com or download
Margaret Wilson is an energetic, personality-plus real estate agent
our free app to see daily updated items! We pride
working at the top of her industry. For the second year in a row, she
ourselves on our excellent customer service as we
is one of Hunter of Homes’ top producers. Margaret says it’s all about
strive to make every woman feel special and help
her Boise-fireman husband and two children. Together, they enjoy
them choose outfits that can fit any girl’s budget!
their DIY home renovations, camping, snowboarding, and working
“Where do I start:) I love fashion and I love that
on community, church and school programs and events.
everything is so affordable. My husband even likes
“Margaret is not only an amazing realtor, but I love that she also flips
the prices haha!” -Kari
houses and truly knows the market.” -Kari
CONTINUED >
February 2020 | Meridian Lifestyle
21
LOCAL FAVORITES (CONTINUED)
SARA WELLS OF OURBESTBITES.COM @SARA_OURBESTBITES Sara Wells is the co-author of 3 bestselling cook books and co-founder of the wildly popular website OurBestBites.com. She specializes in recipes and food tutorials for the everyday cook, and helping families gather around the dinner table with ease and efficiency. Sara has a degree in horticulture and loves to combine her love of food and cooking with tips about gardening and beautifying spaces, both inside and out. She also runs an online boutique where you can find her line of Artisan Olive Oils, and also her hand-poured candle line, Wells+Co.
WHAT ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT? What I love most about food is its ability to bring people together. I’m passionate about family mealtimes and the value that adds to our homes. As a busy mom of 4 growing boys, I know that can also be a real challenge! I love creating real, doable plans to help families create meal-time routines that are both simple and flexible. At OurBestBites.com we dedicate a lot of time to creating our seasonal meal plans to help families do just that.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT LIVING IN IDAHO? I grew up in the Seattle area, and always thought I’d end up back there one day. After marrying an Idaho native and relocating here right after college, I quickly fell in love with the area and knew this would be our forever-home. I love the close-knit community feeling of the Treasure Valley and the proximity to so many outdoor activities my family enjoys.
Photo by Carrie Elton Photography
CLASSI K9 CLIPS 453 N Main Street “We became first-time dog owners a couple of years ago and in my search for a regular groomer, I was surprised at how expensive it was. I first ended up at Classi K9 Clips because it was in a great location in downtown Meridian, and their prices were very reasonable. I’ve continued to be a customer all this time because the staff there is fantastic. Not only do they do a wonderful job with grooming, but I’ve been impressed at how warmly they interact with both dogs and their owners, and they have taught me so much about caring for our pet. When we pull up to Classi K9 Clips, my little Havanese, Finn, starts going crazy because he loves going there so much! He never wants to leave, and I think that’s the best referral you can get!”-Sara
22
Meridian Lifestyle | February 2020
SODALICIOUS 1035 E Fairview Ave. Sodalicious was born to bring the best flavored sodas, treats, and cookies to a drive-thru window for the customer’s convenience. From our classic pink sugar cookie to our signature drinks (try the Your Mom!), we love serving happiness to humanity one cup at a time. “If you haven’t discovered this gem, I’m about to change your life. It’s my favorite place to grab a caffeinated pickme-up as I’m running errands, or celebrate with my kids after a football game, or grab a quick treat to take a friend. I also swing in just to scarf down a cookie on a regular basis as a reward for getting through a busy day!”-Sara
OLD VALLEY NURSERY 4557 W Old Valley Rd, Eagle Old Valley Nursery is family owned and operated and has been in the business of growing quality plants since 1990. We specialize in Perennials, but also grow a wide selection of Ornamental grasses, Flowering Shrubs and Roses for local landscapes. In the early Spring you will also find our greenhouse full of annuals, veggies and beautiful hanging baskets grown for us by another local grower. “Hidden off the road down Linder, Old Valley Nursery offers one of the best selections of locally grown plants. It’s one of my favorite places for their broad selection of shrubs and perennials, and the friendly and helpful staff. I love that everything is grown here in the Treasure Valley so it thrives in the climate of the Inter-Mountain West. They also have regular sales throughout the season. Get on their email list and you’ll be notified when those happen, and you’ll probably run into me there!”-Sara
PORTERHOUSE MARKET 600 S Rivershore Lane “Although many are already loyal fans of this Eagle market and deli, I’ve found it’s still a bit of a hidden gem. I head to Porterhouse Market when I need something fantastic for a special meal, a great cut of quality meat, or a quick lunch. I love their walk-up counter where you can order a custom sandwich (get the pastrami!) and great sides to go along with it. It has the feel of a great neighborhood deli and some of the best food and local products you can find.”-Sara
CONTINUED >
February 2020 | Meridian Lifestyle
23
LOCAL FAVORITES (CONTINUED) Photo by Travis J Photography
F45 MERIDIAN SOUTH 3068 E Overland Rd “I’m often lost at a typical gym, not knowing what weights to use or how to use them. I’d most often find myself hopping from equipment to equipment, just trying not to make a fool of myself. Not at F45. It’s a non-intimidating environment where I’m shown exactly what to do, how to do it, and always walk out with a full body workout. I push myself so much harder than I would on my own. Having a trainer and a group of familiar faces definitely motivates me
MISSY SMITH, SHELLEY COATES AND ALISON PRINCE @HOWDOESSHE HowDoesShe.com is a site created by women, inspired by women, and dedicated to empowering and embracing motherhood and womanhood. As the site’s founders, we have often marveled at the amazing talents and abilities of women around us, asking, “How does she…?” From balancing children, budgets, jobs, a healthy lifestyle, and implementing creative ideas, we are astounded by what it means to be a woman. Whether you are a busy stay-at-home mom, a career woman, entrepreneur, aunt, grandma, or all of the above, HowDoesShe is committed to bringing you the most fabulous DIY projects, crafts, delicious recipes and inspiring ideas!
WHAT ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT? We recently had the incredible opportunity to travel to Guatemala with Operation Underground Railroad and have since become abolitionists because we are passionate about doing all we can to help send light into the darkness and end child slavery.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT LIVING IN IDAHO? Shelley moved away several years ago for grad school, and it took her 7 long years to get back “home” to Idaho. She has been back for about a year and it just feels right. The people, the food, the community, it was all worth the wait. 24
Meridian Lifestyle | February 2020
to show up for class. Did I mention there is often a music DJ at Saturday morning classes? Talk about a pumped-up workout!”-Shelley
THE GRIDDLE 2310 E Overland Road #130 “My friends take me out to breakfast every year on my birthday and I choose the Griddle every time! It has a welcoming, retro atmosphere and their food is incredible! I have tried and love almost everything on the menu, but my two very favorites are the coconut crusted french toast and the eggs benedict.”-Missy
FAT GUYS FRESH DELI 1626 S Wells Ave “Fat Guys is unlike any deli I’ve ever eaten. While it certainly is a deli, the word “deli” just doesn’t seem to do it justice. I’ve never been disappointed with a menu item, but I
SWEET ZOLA’S
highly HIGHLY recommend the Trevor Melt,
917 N Main Street
The Bleu Bronco (if you’re a bleu cheese fan)
Our company exemplifies our motto that the only disability in life is a bad
and go out on a limb and try the Triple decker
attitude. Through inclusion in the workplace, my employees have created an
Grilled Peanut Butter & Jelly. You’ll never be
environment that is not only fun, but functional. Each employee works hard
the same. If you’ve been to Fat Guys Deli,
every day to show the world that they can do the same work as anyone else.
you know the owner. He takes pride in his
“Sweet Zola’s Candy Shop is a unique and amazing store that employs
food, his restaurant, and his customers.
teens and adults with developmental disabilities. How cool is their motto
There has been a handful of times when he
about bad attitudes? I think it is brilliant. Shopping here is not only fun (my
has walked up to my family while dining to
kids love picking out candy from the colorful bins) it is also an opportunity
offer them complimentary cookies or chips.
to teach through experience the importance of inclusion and I always leave
Okay, Fat Guys you’ve won us over.”-Shelley
happy and uplifted. People opening businesses like this, give me hope for humanity and make me proud to live in Meridian.”-Missy February 2020 | Meridian Lifestyle
25
GIVING BACK
ANGEL HOUSE THE INSPIRING STORY OF THE ORGANIZATION BRINGING ABANDONED CHILDREN FROM THE SLUM TO SAFETY + INTO THE LOVING ARMS OF CARETAKERS WHO WILL RAISE THEM TO BECOME FUTURE LEADERS IN THEIR GENERATION
MORE THAN 31 MILLION ORPHANS IN INDIA LIVE TRAGIC LIVES IN THE SLUMS; COMPLETELY ALONE, SEARCHING FOR A PLACE TO CALL HOME. No families, no proper clothing, and no sense of stability whatsoever. Without a miraculous rescue, each child is doomed to end up in one of three places: forced child trafficking, child labor, or begging on the streets. The reality of this injustice came to life for Lindsay Russo while caring for a group of hungry orphans during a humanitarian trip to India in 2010. Nearly 70 children, full orphans, had gathered into a tiny room with dirt floors and cinder block walls to eat their one and only meal for the day being provided by a local feeding program. The children ranged from ages 3 to 12, and they had no place to live. Moved with compassion, Lindsay was unable to turn a blind eye to what she had just witnessed. She thought, ‘These children need a safe place to call home,’ and upon her return to the States, she was determined to make it happen.
26
Meridian Lifestyle | February 2020
BY THE NUMBERS
183
ANGEL HOUSES
4,476
CHILDREN RESCUED
9
YEARS
In the coming months, she began to tell anyone and
The Angel House team in India knew far too well
everyone about the children in India and asked others
the sobering fate of abandoned orphans. Without
to partner with her to build them a home. Although it
intervention, each child would succumb to a life of
was a challenge, Lindsay had an unyielding passion
destitution. Angel House could not stop with 1 home.
and was determined to give the precious children she
Lindsay and her team refused to just “see” the need,
had met a beautiful home.
but resolved to take action.
In December 2010, the dream became a reality! The
Just weeks after the first home opened, Lindsay
very first Angel House Rescue Orphanage was built and
competed and won on the NBC popular game show
became home to 50 beautiful children in India. They
“Minute To Win It!” In a single moment, more than
ran into their new home like they it was Disneyland! As
8.5 million households heard about Angel House as
they laid on their brand new beds it was the first time
Lindsay competed in hopes to use the money to build
they had ever laid on a bed or a pillow in their entire
more homes in India. It was just the beginning!
lives. The Angel House staff wrapped their arms around
What began as one house construction for just
the children and welcomed them into more than just
one group of children has now grown into dozens
their new homes, but their new lives.
of homes and thousands of children rescued out of
The day was memorable, but soon the harsh reality
the slums! Hundreds of orphans and street children
set in – more than 25 million orphans still lived tragic
who would otherwise be trapped in forced child labor,
lives on the streets and in the slums. Who will do some-
human trafficking, or begging on the streets now have
thing to help them?
a safe place to call home. February 2020 | Meridian Lifestyle
27
RENOVATE & REFINE
OUT WITH THE
NEW IN WITH THE
old WE’RE SHARING TIPS, TRICKS + UNIQUE WAYS TO INCORPORATE YOUR ANTIQUE ITEMS INTO YOUR HOME
ANTIQUES ARE MAKING A COMEBACK. Whether you’re an antique aficionada, a thrifty thrifter or new to the whole concept of vintage revival; whether it’s a hand-me-down, a thrift-store-find or just something cool you stumbled upon at an estate sale; endless opportunities exist to effortlessly incorporate retro, vintage, antique or whatever-you-want-to-call-them items into different parts of your modern home.
28
Meridian Lifestyle | February 2020
item
WHAT IT IS Antique Chest STYLE IT Coffee Table PRO TIP Revive solid-wood pieces with little actual value by refinishing the wood to your liking.
Don’t be afraid to do something different, and don’t take things too seriously. If the piece you’re working with doesn’t have any real value, you have so many options to liven it up, including paint, finish and hardware.
Make your piece multi-purpose by turning the lid into a game table or by storing your cocktail accessories inside for an easy-access mini bar!
Spread the vintage love. Use antiques strategically and as accent pieces to keep your overall aesthetic from coming off as too dated.
tips CONTINUED >
February 2020 | Meridian Lifestyle
29
RENOVATE & REFINE (CONTINUED)
tips
ITEM
30
Repurpose old tins, mugs, teacups or storage containers into succulent gardens. Because succulents have shallow root systems, they can survive (and thrive!) in smaller spaces.
Meridian Lifestyle | February 2020
WHAT IT IS
PRO TIP
Antique Bicycle
Incorporate multiple
STYLE IT
plants through the use
Plant Stand
of various baskets.
WHAT IT IS Vintage books + tchotchkes
PRO TIP Display vintage books (or vintage-looking books!) as a visual focal point on nightstands, shelves + coffee tables.
item
STYLE IT Bookends
Create the most impact by displaying (not hiding!) items that carry the best stories or sentimental value. We love the use of incorporating these smaller figurines as bookends and paperweights.
Make it art. Don’t be afraid to display unique pieces as wall art. Consider creating a gallery wall that mixes vintage photographs, prints, mirrors and china.
CONTINUED >
February 2020 | Meridian Lifestyle
31
RENOVATE & REFINE (CONTINUED)
simple ways face lif t
1
2
CHANGE UP THE HARDWARE
REFINISH, RESURFACE + REPAINT
3
REUPHOLSTER THE CUSHIONS + PILLOWS
4 REPURPOSE 32
Meridian Lifestyle | February 2020
5
DEEP CLEAN +SHINE
3
and Garden show is brought to you
NATIONAL GROUNDHOG JOB SHADOW DAY
PM, Saturday 11 AM-7 PM and Sunday
Your Office
by Spectra Productions. The show opens Friday evening from 5 PM-9 11 AM-5 PM. Tickets are $5, Seniors $4, children 12 and under are free.
This nationwide initiative to provide job shadowing experience to students is being extended to your business and our West Ada school district. Consider making an impact on the future career of the incoming
18
FEBRUARY
LIFESTYLE CALENDAR
SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION WORKSHOPS
Meridian Library, Cherry Lane Location
Have questions about growing a small
8
business? How about starting one?
CABIN FEVER RELIEVER
shops on these topics and The Idaho
The Small Business Administration will be leading complimentary work-
Caldwell Event Center, 2207 Blaine St,
Tax Commission will be in attendance
workforce by registering today to host
Caldwell
to answer questions. Please register:
a student! Deadline to register your
The Meridian Anti-Drug Coalition
MLD.org/small-business-adminis-
business for participation is Monday,
presents the 8th Annual - Cabin Fever
tration-workshops-0
January 20th, 2020 idahojob-
Reliever! A fun day filled with educa-
shadow.org/business-registration
tional and instructional activities for everyone with kids, parents and vol-
24
7-9
unteers helping kids to learn great,
HOME AND GARDEN SHOW
family prevention packets, Polaroid
Korn and Breaking Benjamin Winter
pictures and more.
2020 North American Tour with
Ford Idaho Center
healthy, outdoor activities. Stop by and visit the MADC booth for FREE
The Canyon County Spring Home
KORN AND BREAKING BENJAMIN Ford Idaho Center
opening act Bones UK. For tickets visit FordIdahoCenter.com
Be the hostess whose house shines. With Merry Maids®, hosting is a breeze. You worry about the decor, food and music — while we handle the dirty work.
Call now for a Ada & Canyon County
208.888.3332 www.merrymaids.com Text or e-mail
208.858.1156 info4122@merrymaids.net
Merry Maids® services provided by independently owned and operated franchises or by a corporate-owned branch. Prices and services vary by location. © 2018 Merry Maids L.P. All rights reserved.
February 2020 | Meridian Lifestyle
33
PARTING THOUGHTS
Inspired b y S u c c e s s
Carson Sofro
WHAT STARTED YOUR CAREER PATH? I’ve always had a passion for the game of basketball and giving back. A former athlete, in the summer of 2007 I started a small clinic in my hometown of Sun Valley, ID. That small clinic would go on to become a large camp in 2008, 25 camps nationally by 2010, and a rapidly expanding international program for kids by 2012. Since 2007, our decorated staff of professional players and coaches has trained, mentored, and encouraged more than 33,000 young men and women from more than 46 countries and all 50 states. Now headquartered in Idaho’s Treasure Valley, HSBCAMPS, HSB Academy, and the TV80, Boise’s Premier Youth Basketball League offer annual programming for participants of all ages (grades K-12th), incomes, and physical abilities. For more information or to register visit www.hsbacademy.com. WHAT IS SOMETHING YOU ARE PROUD OF? Waking up every day and knowing that myself and our outstanding coaches are truly making a difference in the lives of children, especially here in the Treasure Valley. WHAT IS SOMETHING YOU ARE PASSIONATE ABOUT? Helping kids pursue their dreams and realize their full potential. The game of basketball has opened so many doors and has created so many opportunities for me throughout my life, I believe it is important to pay that forward. WHAT IS YOUR DEFINITION OF SUCCESS? Never giving up! Success has many forms and can look many different ways. Whether running, walking, or
+ GLOBAL FOUNDER / DIRECTOR
crawling at the slowest pace imaginable, as long as you
OF HSBCAMPS & HSB ACADEMY
always be successful.
are moving forward and learning in the process you will
+ COACH
WHAT
34
Meridian Lifestyle | February 2020
DO
YOU
HAVE
FOR
THE
NEXT GENERATION?
+ MENTOR + ENTREPRENEUR
ADVICE
Never let anyone dictate or determine what you will or will not do with your life. Take control of your own destiny, be Photo by Todd Nichols
determined, and remember through Hard Work, Sacrifice, and the belief in yourself anything is possible.
Unmatched Academic Results Join us for an Open House.
Visit ChallengerSchool.com for times and dates by campus.
An independent private school offering preschool through eighth grade
Boise Bloom (208) 338-9500 5551 W. Bloom Street Boise, ID 83703
Everest (208) 846-8888 2020 W. Everest Lane Meridian, ID 83646
Š 2020, Challenger Schools Challenger School admits students of any race, color, and national or ethnic origin.
Open Enrollment has begun!