Health + Wellness

The Sensory Spot

A Haven for Inclusive Play Article by Lisa Bakewell | Photography by Abby Watkins “There are so few options out there for very, very young children, and the IDD community, including our kiddos with sensory needs,” shares Kayla McDonald, co-owner of The Sensory Spot in Parker, Colorado. “A lot of play areas around the country have sensory-friendly ‘zones,’ which in my mind always provided an image of separation. At The Sensory Spot, our entire space is catered toward this population. Not only...

Fitness

Generation Wild

Connecting Youth and Families to Colorado's Beautiful Outdoors Article by Cassandra Green | Photography by Provided by Great Outdoors Colorado Great Outdoors Colorado has a mission to preserve, protect and enhance Colorado’s parks, trails, wildlife, rivers and open spaces. They are funded entirely by the Colorado Lottery and they are responsible for a statewide coordinated effort to help connect youth to the outdoors through Generation Wild. Jackie Miller, the executive director at Great...

Local Services

Cultivating Memories

Meet the Family Behind Mainstreet Flower Market Article by Julie Ann Tripp | Photography by Brogan Resch Photography, Nicole Ryann Photography In a world full of tight schedules and long days, some people choose to make time and space to stop and smell the roses. Meet Amber and Frencesco Micciche, the owners of Mainstreet Flower Market since April 2022. “We are passionately committed to cultivating a legacy of quality, empathetic service, and unique product offerings ensuring every bloom...

Sports + Recreation

The Avs Better Halves' Heartwarming Impact

Parker Resident, Chandra MacFarland on The Avs Better Halves Contributions Article by Elizabeth Watson | Photography by Michael Martin Two years ago, when Chandra (Chan) MacFarland’s husband Chris received a promotion to his “dream job” of General Manager with the Colorado Avalanche, Chan also stepped into a new role with the nonprofit The Avs Better Halves (ABH). ABH was founded the year the Avalanche came to Colorado in their 1995-96 season. The wives and significant others of the Avalanche...

Local Services

All For Good

Heather's Pantry is a Light on the Hill For Those in Need Article by Cassandra Green | Photography by Provided by Heather's Pantry “I challenge people with, 'if money was no object and you could be doing anything that you want, what would you do with your life?'” Todd Bright’s words activate a drive to serve others. Todd and his wife, Heather, founded Heather’s Pantry to fill a need Heather saw. It was only when she got cancer, that Todd became more involved. Heather passed away in October of...

Fitness

Discover Santosha Studios

Parker's Haven for Mind, Body and Soul Wellness Article by Julie Ann Tripp | Photography by Abby Watkins In the heart of Parker, a new oasis invites locals to embark on a journey of self-discovery and well-being. Offering a holistic retreat for the mind, body and soul, Santosha, meaning a feeling of complete contentment, combines yoga and therapy in one space. Owned by the dedicated husband-and-wife team, John and Kelly Nason, Santosha Studios opened in September, and became a hub for those...

Fitness

Train to Rediscover Yourself

Personal trainer Joey Solano believes a better future for you. Article by Cassandra Green | Photography by Juliana Wilfong Photography Joey Solano is an in-home personal trainer and coach. He named his business Black Sheep Lifestyle to represent the concept of being different and to use it as your advantage. While his journey began as a personal endeavor to help his mom regain her health after retirement, Joey realized so many people reach retirement and have health issues. His mission is to...

Wellness

Smooth Transitions

Aging Well With Jill Yasskin Article by Lisa Bakewell | Photography by Pauline Fortuna Photography Colorado is experiencing a notable rise in its senior-care demographic as a record-setting number of Boomers enter their 80s. And, as seniors are living longer, they’re also having to make decisions previous generations didn’t have to make. They didn’t live long enough . Plus, as you can imagine—and AARP and the non-stop media remind us daily—seniors are in ever-increasing danger of being...

Fitness

Vitality and Strength

Experience new strength with the new year. Article by Joan Dameron | Photography by Jolie Rodriguez and Shelli Sifrit With a promise of stronger muscles, stronger health and stronger self, The Exercise Coach can take you to the next level no matter your age or where you are in your fitness journey. “Making a difference in someone’s life is my passion,” owner Shelli Sifrit, says. Shelli and her husband, Mark, have been serving the Parker community since 2020 and recently opened their second...

Travel

11 Towns for Christmas Lovers

Article by Lisa Bakewell In the spirit of the beloved carol “The 12 Days of Christmas,” we thought it would be fun to share the festivities of 11 favorite Christmas towns. From traditional to magical, these destinations will help make your holiday wishes come true. Why only 11? Because, on that 12th day of Christmas, we know your favorite destination is home. Georgetown, Colorado The magic of Georgetown, Colorado will transport you to a bygone era. Embrace the timeless charm of the...