i heart mesa.

Things To Do in Mesa, Arizona for the Last Weekend in January

2012-01-26T15:00:00.000-07:00

We love all the entries so far for our $50 in Arizona Giveaway! Keep them coming. Just remember, entries are judged on how you will spend the money in Arizona AND how you are spreading the word of I Heart Mesa. If you forgot that last part, just leave a separate comment and we will put 2 and 2 together.

As we have said before, any profit we have made from this website, has gone back into it. 100%. That's why it was time for another giveaway. We have a vision to make Mesa better and we realize we are only as effective as our reader base. (Besides a bigger reader base equates to bigger and better giveaways for you!) So, spread the word about I Heart Mesa and keep sending us suggestions of events we can post about. Our e-mail is iheartmesa@gmail.com.

Now, onto some events:

- Are you aware of all the upcoming shows at the Mesa Arts Center? Get tickets for the National Geographic Live! Speakers series. My husband, who loves photography and has taken many of our I Heart Mesa pictures, and I attended one a few years back. It was very interesting listening to the stories and lives behind the pictures. Or, what about tickets to My Fair Lady for this Tuesday and Wednesday? Make sure to add a dash of culture into your life this year.

- Mesa may have lost the Royale, but you can still check out some cult classics in Tempe on Mill Avenue at MADCAP Theater. Back to the Future will be playing Friday night at 9:00 PM. Don't miss your reunion with Marty McFly. More information here.

- Fiesta Mall has free entertainment every weekend. This weekend you can enjoy Polynesian entertainment, folklorico dancing, mariachi bands and more. Go here for a list of the entertainment scheduled for this weekend. Also at Fiesta Mall tomorrow, try to win 20,000 frequent flyer miles from Spirit Airlines. Read this article for more information.

- The last Friday of every month, from 6:00 PM - 8:45 PM, Gilbert's McQueen Park Activity Center at 510 N. Horne, Gilbert, AZ 85233 plays host to "Family Fun Zone." Watch a movie, enjoy family friendly activities, even compete against other families. Cost is $1.50 for residence and $2.25 for non residence. Go here for all the details.

- This Saturday, January 28, 2012 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM at Tempe Marketplace is "Real Snow Skate Show" with skate demos, giveaways, signings with Billy Marks and Aaron "Jaws" Homoki, music and more. Go here for more information.

- We have reminded you over and over about the Historic Home Tour this Saturday. Don't forget to also check out the Flea Market set up on the greenbelt on 2nd Street and Robson. Everything from Domestic Bliss will be 28-50% off!

- Also, don't forget the EVIT Expo on Saturday as well. That cake walk sounds fun.

And...do you know where this picture was taken?

$50 in Arizona Giveaway

2012-01-25T06:00:00.000-07:00

Remember our $50 in Arizona giveaway? It's back! (You can go ahead and do your little fist pump now.)

Our last winner, Coralee, used the $50 towards a fabulous anniversary trip with her husband to nothern Arizona. They started out with bowling and a movie in Prescott, then stopped at Montezuma's Castle and Tuzigoot National Monument, ate at the Javelina Cantina in Sedona, stayed in Cottonwood, and then enjoyed a drive through Oak Creek Canyon to see the first snowfall of the year. They loved and recommended everything they did and I'm sure they won't mind if you copy their itinerary for your next quick getaway. (We know the $50 didn't pay for all of that fun, but we were glad to help.)

To enter, you must leave a comment on this post or on Facebook telling us how you would spend the $50 in Arizona AND how you are spreading the word of I Heart Mesa. Get creative because our winner will be chosen from whoever comes up with the best idea(s) for spending the $50 and the best way(s) of spreading the heart of I Heart Mesa. (Just please no face tattoos of our I Heart Mesa logo. That might be awkward.)

The winner will receive a $50 check from us and is required to submit a few pictures that are okay for posting of how the $50 was spent.

Giveaway ends next Monday, January 30th at midnight. Winner announced next Tuesday.

Thank you Coralee for the beautiful pictures and for thinking of such a fun getaway! Wishing you many more years of happiness in your marriage.

Mesa Historical Museum

2012-01-23T16:08:00.001-07:00

A few weeks ago my husband and I decided to finally check out the Mesa Historical Museum. We enjoyed doing some research for an I Heart Mesa history project, we laughed and reminisced at the Wallace and Ladmo exhibit, thought about all the service men and women in the WWII aviation exhibit, dreamed of Mesa yesteryears, and of course I loved being in a historical building. The building is the old Lehi School. It started as a one room adobe school house and then the larger building which houses the Mesa Historical Museum was built in 1914.

The Mesa Historical Museum is located at:

2345 N. Horne (North of McKellips)

and is open Thursday - Saturday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Admission is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors, $3 for children (those under 3 are free).

The Mesa Historical Museum also has a room and an auditorium for rent if you are planning an event. Go here to view pictures and for more details. I have been to an event in the auditorium and it can fit up to 400 people and is home to some fun murals. Makes for a unique place for an event.

Tips: I wouldn't recommend bringing small kids. They will be bored. There is not much for them to do and the museum is full of things to read. You can't sit and read if your kids are scattering to other rooms. This is not a huge museum and taking a tour won't take you long at all. And don't worry about crowds. We went on a Saturday and we saw only one other patron.

Finally, if you wanted to view the museum, but wanted more bang for your buck, buy tickets to the Historic Home Tour this Saturday, January 28th from 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM. Tickets are $15 and include the full home tour around downtown and admission to the museum. Tickets can be purchased here. (I know I'm not the only one in town that likes to see how other people have decorated their homes. Should be a fun day.)

Dinner Tonight: Unlimited Food Foodtrucks

2012-01-19T09:51:00.000-07:00

Here is a last minute idea for dinner tonight: Superstition Farm is hosting "Pop Up, Pig Out." For $20 enjoy ALL YOU CAN EAT from four local food trucks. This unique event takes place from 4:30pm - 7:30pm tonight, January 19th, during the Super Farm Market at Superstition Farm. An a-la-carte menu is available for children at the Super Truck and free petting zoo and $1 hayride!

Tickets are limited, so go here to purchase tickets.

Superstition Farm is located at:

3440 S. Hawes Rd. Mesa, AZ 85212

602-432-6865

Also, don't forget other events coming up next weekend:

- EVIT Expo

- Mesa Historic Home Tour

Yes, the mystery picture from last week is the white horse on Stapley and Brown. I remember being a little girl and watching so intently for the horse every time we went to the bank. I've heard stories of how it originated, but am unsure of the validity of them. I'm trying to track down some answers, but does anyone out there know how that horse came to be?

And finally, thought you might enjoy this video from Tough Mudder that took place last weekend in Mesa. (You can skip the first minute.) To watch video, go here. Yay for teamwork!

Happy 100th Birthday Arizona: 100 Years of Beauty

2012-01-18T14:22:00.000-07:00

As we recoup and get back into the swing of things after a round of flu at our house, please enjoy these pictures from the southern part of our state. My husband took all these pictures a few days after Christmas. Arizona is such a wonderful place to explore and we promise to continue to post her beauty as we celebrate an amazing 100 years of statehood!

(P.S. Arizona doesn't need Photoshop to be beautiful.)

Park of the Canals

2012-01-13T10:49:00.003-07:00

So awhile back we asked if you knew where this picture was taken:

Yes, it is The Park of the Canals. In December, Marily and I had the privilege to write a few articles for the Gateway to the East Valley Magazine. The editor, Megan Sterling, has always been a great support to us here at I Heart Mesa. When she asked if we could write on a local gem, we knew Park of the Canals was a good fit. And here is why:

The Hohokam people lived in the Salt River Valley between 300 BC and 1450 AD. In order to grow crops of beans, squash, corn, agave, and cotton they used primitive and basic tools to dig an elaborate canal system, spanning hundreds of miles. (Just dig one hole in your backyard with a modern shovel and you will realize how difficult that must have been for the Hohokam people.) After lying dry for over 400 years, in 1878 Mormon pioneer settlers with the Mesa Company began the work of clearing out part of these impressive canals in order to irrigate their own crops in the dry desert. These canals are the reason that Mesa was able to thrive in the desert.

Today what is left of these canals can be seen while visiting the 31 acre Park of the Canals located at 1710 N. Horne in Mesa. The park literally sits at the edge of the mesa for which this city is named. While at this park, take in the centuries old history of the area while walking amongst the canals, visit the quaint Brinton Desert Botanical Garden, play on the newly remodeled playground equipment, participate in the compass course, or enjoy a meal at the park by using the available grills and ramadas. I know my family enjoyed a sunset picnic here.

In 1975, Park of the Canals was placed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Park of the Canals in located on the West side of Horn between Brown and McKellips.

Things to Do in Mesa, Arizona in January (and photo trivia)

2012-01-11T06:00:00.001-07:00

Let's get back into the swing of things with an events post:

- 2nd Friday in Downtown Mesa, Friday, January 13th, 2012. Enjoy this month's theme of "Film Fest on Main" by dressing up as your favorite movie character for a chance at prizes, test your movie knowledge, or enter you short film in the film festival for a chance at winning $50. All information from here.

- Monday, January 16th is Martin Luther King Jr. Day. There will be a community parade in downtown Mesa. Parade starts at 11:00 AM and there will be a festival with music, dancing, and community booths after the parade at the Mesa Arts Center. For other ways to celebrate the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. in Mesa, go here.

- Purchase tickets now for Mesa’s 12th Annual Historic Home Tour. The tour will be held on Saturday, January 28th from 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM and will feature houses in the Sherwood neighborhood built in the 50's and 60's and a few houses in the West Second Street District. Tickets are $15. You can purchase tickets here or on the day of the tour at the Mesa Historical Museum and in the historic neighborhoods. All proceeds will benefit the Mesa Historical Museum.

- Looking to sign up for Mesa Parks and Rec. classes? Registration is now open. To view all classes, leagues, ect. go here.

- Dickey's Barbecue is celebrating their grand opening in Arizona with $1 pulled pork sandwiches, this Friday, January 13th from 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM. I've never had BBQ from this place before, but for $1, now might be a good time to try them out. Also, according to their website, kids eat free now through February (this is with an adult meal purchase, so not sure if the $1 sandwich will count.) The Dickey's will be located at 1914 Power Road (between Baseline and the Freeway.)

- Eating healthier one of your resolutions? You may want to hit up the local Farmers Markets. Super Farm is this Thursday, Downtown Mesa has one on Friday. Read all about local Farmers Markets in our post here.

- Speaking of Farmers Markets, Desert Roots Farm in Queen Creek is looking for some help in planting their onions this Thursday, January 12th and Friday, January 13th. I think the joy of digging in the dirt and enjoying the winter sunshine is good enough reason for me, but because it will be a full day of work, they will pay whoever wants to help out. Contact Kelly using the contact information at the bottom of their site.

- Mark your calendars for the EVIT Expo. EVIT will be celebrating their 20th anniversary with the public on Saturday, January 28th 2012 from 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM. Attend this event and see the students show off their new skills with a car show, chair massages, food, games and prizes, bands, and more. Admission is free. Information from here. EVIT is located at 1601 W. Main St.

And....does anyone recognize this horse?

Looking Ahead to 2012

2012-01-10T13:52:00.000-07:00

We hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season. We did. There were days of urban exploring, eating out, going to the movies, and times when we just stayed home and visited with family. We know you don't want to fill every day with events and things to do, but we hope to continue to be a trusting resource for when you do.

This site was started years ago to promote greater love for our community. We will continue to work on posting about businesses to support, events to check out, people to take note of, things to inspire in order to get more people to take pride in our community. We truly feel that the more people we have in our community content to call Mesa and the East Valley home, the stronger our local economy, the better our schools, the safer our neighborhoods will be.

So here is to 2012...a year of big changes here at I Heart Mesa. A year of growth and a year of creating a stronger community to live in.

Speaking of community, it has taken a community effort and part of the Diving Lady sign is back up! I took these pictures this last Saturday. Can't wait until the Diving Lady herself makes an appearance.

Last Minute Deals in Mesa: Arizona Museum for Youth and Blue Adobe Grille

2011-12-22T15:12:00.000-07:00

For last minute deals this holiday season:

- Arizona Museum for Youth has offered I Heart Mesa readers 11% off your renewal! If you signed up last year (like me) then you probably got the 14 month for 12 month deal, so you don't expire until the end of February. However, if you renew now, you save 11% and then you won't expire until the end of February 2013. You must renew by the end of the business day (4:00 PM) on December 31st and you must mention that you saw this deal via I Heart Mesa. This offer is only good for renewals. So, if you have a membership, or had one once upon a time and are still in the system, this offer is for you. This offer is only good in person or over the phone.

I still love my membership. I know people rave about the Phoenix Children's Museum (which is a great place), but I love the price of the Arizona Museum for Youth, the fact that I don't have to drive that far and that it is usually not that crowded. I have found that my favorite is to pick my older twins up from Kindergarten, take a sack lunch to eat in their food area and let all my girls play for a few hours.

- Blue Adobe Grille is having a promotion - buy $100 in gift cards, get an additional $20 in gift cards. My husband's family will be all together for the first time in over 5 years - I know where we are going for dinner! This is the original Blue Adobe Grille located on Country Club, just north of Main. There is one in Scottsdale, but our Mesa one tastes better and has better prices. I knew Mesa was always more awesome!

I Heart Mesa Local Gift Guide

2011-12-15T10:20:00.002-07:00

Are you looking for a one of a kind gift for that special someone...or even yourself? Here are some of my favorite unique ideas, all from local companies!

Last month we shared with you the story of Karas Kustoms. When I visited the shop, they gave me a top to take home to my family. I'll be honest, at first I didn't think a top was that great of a fit for my family. I mean, it's been a looong time since I've played with a top. So I brought it home and let my kids have fun with it. But what surprised me was how much my husband loved it. I came into the kitchen one day and my husband exclaimed, "Kathryn. Check this out!" While holding his watch to my face I saw that the timer said 5:56. "That's how long the top spun! It's amazing." So for quite awhile, my adult husband played and timed that beautiful little top. And that is when I realized, this top would be the perfect unique stocking stuffer. You can take it to work and leave it on your desk to fiddle with. Have family top-offs (I just made up that game.) See who can make theirs spin longer. Brilliant.

{These are my 2 year old's hands, not mine}

This top is crafted out of solid aluminum and really is a piece of art, mixed with classic fun. All pieces made by Karas Kustoms are designed and produced locally. Even the aluminum is local. Shop now and get 15% off your purchase by using code: CHRISTMAS15. Go here to see all that Karas Kustoms offers.

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A few weeks ago I had the chance to check out Orange Patch Too, a boutique run by a family that has lived in Mesa for generations. The shop is located on McKellips between Val Vista and Greenfield and is complete with a charming boutique area and a place to purchase groceries and sweets. When I was taking pictures to share here, I noticed this shelf of Arizona honey. Who wouldn't love getting a batch of orange blossom honey for Christmas? I'm thinking of asking Santa to forgo loads of candy in stockings this year and to bring my girls some simple sweets, including a dose of this orange blossom or wildflower honey. Young and old would love it!

Other simple ideas for local gift giving:

- Give the gift of nature. Last year my parents gifted all of us kids (okay, I'm the youngest of 6 and I'm turning 30 this year, so I guess we aren't kids anymore) an Arizona Game and Fish Fishing licence. We made some great memories this year taking the whole family fishing. Those under 14 do not need a liscense. Go here to read more about how you can purchase yours.

- Wanting to give jewelry? There is just something about jewelry with history that I love. Last year I had my uncle handcraft me some turquoise rings for my girls. I told them it was to remind them of their family and Arizona heritage. They love them! So this year, I'm thinking I need to head down to Antique Plaza in downtown Mesa and see about purchasing a few vintage rings for family (and maybe one for myself).

- Gift Cards: I know I love it when I'm gifted a gift card. Try Blue Adobe Grille for a flavorful Santa Fe inspired meal. It's one of our favorites! Or Mangos in downtown is always great. And right now I'm craving chips and salsa from Matta's. Can you tell I'm in the mood for Mexican Food? I think it's the season. I could eat homemade tamales and chips and salsa everyday.

What do you plan to buy and gift from a local company? We would love to know.

(We do not receive any incentives to post our gift guides, we just love supporting local businesses.)

Things to Do in the East Valley for the Holidays

2011-12-13T09:55:00.003-07:00

You've asked for some activities for this week and we have found several ideas for you.

If you are wanting to tour around looking at Christmas lights this season, you should check out this holiday lights map from AZ Central. Or, check out our two favorite neighborhoods to see lights in Mesa, listed in this post from last year. And don't forget the LDS Temple Christmas Lights for a nice evening at one of Mesa's landmarks, or head to Mill for lights in downtown Tempe, including a free holiday concert on Thursday night.

Santas Wonderland at Bass Pro

Free 4 x 6 photo with Santa, crafts and activities throughout the store. And they have a carousel for kids to ride for free! We went last week and the kids enjoyed "snowball" fights, playing with the toy train and car, coloring, free samples of fudge, candy canes...but I think the carousel beat out Santa for the favorite. (Santa was nice, but he didn't talk much.) Check here for times and a schedule.

Arizona Big Train Operators Open Houses

Every year, members of this organization for model train enthusiasts open their backyards to the public for viewing. If you want to brave the crowds to see a truly incredible display, go to the Palo Verde and Southwestern Railroad display. His display gets better every year. If you'd like something a little less crazy, check out one of the other homes for their nice displays. This is a great activity for the whole family. Bring a few dollars if you'd like to donate to the organization.

If you want to do something outdoors (if the rain clears), visit our favorite local spots: Usery Park, Lost Dutchman State Park, the Riparian Preserve, or drive just a little farther to see the lights of the city from the top of South Mountain. Many of these places also have events for children or adults if you search their pages.

We just happened to choose that dust storm day in November for our drive to South Mountain, but it was still worth it.

Holiday lights at McCormick Stillman Railroad Park

This is a fun family outing, but be warned--it is super crowded. People show up before the park opens to stand in line to ride the train. We had several adults when we went so we were able to send a couple to play with the kids and ride the carousel while the rest waited in line for the train ride. Holiday lights train rides go until Dec 23rd, then from the 24th - 30th from 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM. Santa will be there through Dec 23rd. Train and carousel rides are $2 each, children under 3 are free with a paying adult. We called the park and they said it's less busy on school nights -- except rainy days like today when they don't run the train. She also said they sometimes start the train a little early (6:15 maybe), and after 8/8:30 is also a good time for shorter lines.

Here are a few other ideas for outings this holiday season:

Los Noches de las Luminarias

Gingerbread house competition at the Arizona Biltmore

A Christmas Carol performance at the Hale Centre Theatre

Spirit of Christmas dance performance at Chandler Center for the Arts this Saturday and Sunday

Winter activities at Golfland

Ballet Arizona's performance of the Nutcracker

ZooLights at the Phoenix Zoo

Holiday Break Activities

For next week, the City of Mesa has some free activities to entertain your kids while they are on break from school. They are held from 10:00 AM - 12:00 NOON on December 21st - 23rd at Candlelight Park, and December 27th - 29th at Falcon Park. Go here for details of the activities each day. Sounds like some great (and free!) fun for winter break.

Or, after Christmas go Swim with Santa at the indoor, heated pool at Kiwanis Park in Tempe from December 26th - 28th.

Have fun!!

Things To Do For the Holidays: Zoo Lights at the Phoenix Zoo

2011-12-12T21:23:00.000-07:00

If you are thinking about going to Zoo Lights this year - we thought we just might post some pictures to tip you over to the yes category. We took these during our visit last week. In our family, special moments are what make up the season, not the number of gifts under the tree.

My favorites of the evening were of course, being with my family and the dancing trees (they don't dance, but they light up to the music) and my girls' favorites were many: fun light animals, petting the stingrays and riding the Polar Ice slide.

Enjoy the visuals:

Zoo Lights run nightly through January 8th, 2012

from 6:00 - 10:00 PM

For pricing and to purchase tickets, you can go online here or to your local Fry's

Tips:

- Viewing the dancing trees (by Monkey Village) up close is awesome, but, if you head over to Yakulla Caverns (the water area that is closed for the winter), there are 3 benches and a picnic area with a great view overlooking the lake and the dancing trees. When we were there, this area was empty so it made for a nice retreat from the crowd to sit and relax a little.

- If you do want to pet the stingrays - save it for last. My girls got so excited to touch the animals that they let their arms go deeper and deeper into the water, which equaled out to very wet children.

Things To Do in Mesa, Arizona for the Weekend of December 9th, 10th and 11th

2011-12-08T09:05:00.000-07:00

Hope you enjoy your weekend roundup of events and don't forget our picture trivia at the end:

- "Read Down Your Fines": Those 17 and under can reduce their fines at the library. For every 20 minutes read, get $1 waived on fines. Go here to sign up.

- Free East Valley Children's Theater Christmas production at the public libraries, Saturday, December 10th. Showing at the Main Library from 11:00 - 11:40 AM. Showing at Dobson Ranch Library from 3:00 - 3:40 PM. Go here for more information.

- 2nd Friday in Downtown Mesa from 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM. Music, unique shopping, free contests.

- If you don't make it to 2nd Friday, you probably want to check out the Mesa Arts Festival this Saturday and Sunday, the 10th and 11th from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Enjoy live music, tons of vendors, kid activities, culinary delights, live performances and artist demonstrations. Last week when we were at the MAC, my girls and I were able to stop and watch an artist make ornaments through the whole process of heating and blowing the glass. I thought it was fabulous - and once again reminded of all the FREE things in our city that we don't always take advantage of. Go here for all the good details and schedules and to print out a listing of where to locate the recycled wreaths that are on display.

- Are you like me and trying to clean out the old before opening the new on Christmas? Then you may want to take advantage of Mesa's hazardous waste collection this Saturday, December 10th from 8:00 AM - Noon. Located at the Center Street Facility, 2412 N. Center St. (Center Street, north of McKellips). More information and a list of what is accepted (paint, pesticides, electronics, batteries, ect.) go here.

-5th Annual EVIT Masquerade Fantasy Hair Show tomorrow, December 9th from 6:00 - 8:00 PM. This events sound fun and exciting. This is from the press release sent to us, "More than 360 Cosmetology students will participate in the fifth annual Masquerade Fantasy Hair Show at the East Valley Institute of Technology. Students will serve as models and work in teams to create a 'Total Look' including hair styling, make up, nail art and costumes based on a chosen theme." Event located in the EVIT Auditorium, 1601 W. Main Street, Mesa, AZ (Building #1).

- Mesa Parks and Recreation's Breakfast with Santa, December 17th. To sign up, go here.

- Gilbert's Farmer's Market will host Santa this Saturday, December 10th. Straight from their FB account, "Santa will be visiting from 9:30-12:30, Gift Boxes & Bags from our Vendors, Tons of Produce from Local Growers & Farmers, Live Music from Josh Metzler, Face Painting & We might even be lucky enough to have Hannah the horse stop by for a Horse Carriage Ride around Downtown Gilbert!" Sounds fun. If you would like a list of this Farmer's Market, as well as others, go here.

- Tempe Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade this Saturday, December 10th at Tempe Beach Park. Santa arrives at 6:00 PM, boat parade starts at 7:00 PM. Once a year, motorized boats are allowed on the lake and are lit up in their glowing holiday best. Go here for more details.

- Boutique in Chandler this Saturday, December 10th from 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM. Located at 999 E. Gunstock Rd. Vendors include Scentsy, Stamp'n Up, Mary Kay, Usborne Books, Lia Sophia, and many others.

- And of course there are still Zoo Lights (we had a lot of fun last night) and MOO-ey Christmas at Superstition Farm (umm, buttermilk pancakes sound delicious) this weekend as well.

And here is a little Mesa trivia: Where was this picture taken?

And for those that I never answered this picture trivia (I thought I did, but I guess not, sorry), the answers are:

- #1 is across the street from the Main library in front of the Council Chambers at 57 E. 1st Street and is of Ernest McFarland who served as Governor, Chief Justice of AZ Supreme Court and the Majority leader in the U.S. Senate.

- #2 Cinderella is in the alley way behind the Surf & Ski building in Downtown Mesa.

- #3 This Buck is on the Buckhorn Bath sign on Main Street.

Hayrides and Trail Rides with DeWitt Stables, North Mesa

2011-12-07T14:55:00.001-07:00

Are you looking for a great idea for your next work/family/school/friend/church party? Last month we invited a few I Heart Mesa friends and volunteers and were able to head to the "country" to have a relaxing hayride at DeWitt Stables, complete with a bonfire for hot dogs and s'mores. We enjoyed our evening out on the farm and realized just how little we actually do slow down the pace of life. Let's just say some of the children learned that when taking a hayride, the point is not to just get somewhere fast, but to enjoy the journey. We let the team of horses do their work as we left ours behind. Some of those more musically inclined (not me) led the younger children in songs as we traveled through the orange groves. At the end of our journey, a roaring fire was waiting and my husband heard one of the children exclaim (while consuming his s'more), "This is the best night ever!"

You can reserve your own hayride by contacting DeWitt Stables through this link.

DeWitt Stables is located at:
2211 E. Quince, Mesa
(Gilbert Rd., just north of the 202 Red Mountain)

Hayrides are $175 for the first wagon. Each wagon holds about 25 (but of course you can fit more if there are several small children) and $150 for additional wagons. This includes a hayride through the groves, big bonfire to have a sing along, make s'mores or access to a couple of different areas to eat or have a party afterwards. They also offer the option of catering, pricing depends upon menu. The reservation usually last 2 - 3 hours.

Also, if you wanted to enjoy a horse ride through our scenic Arizona, DeWitt Stables offers those too. Trail rides are $25 per person for the first hour, a second hour can be added for an additional $15. They can tailor trail rides to your specs - 1/2 day, over nighters, etc. There is a price break to $20 per person if your group is more than 10.

Now, enjoy a few pictures from our evening.

Yes, that is a pitchfork full of roasting hot dogs.

Preview of Items Available at Auction Empire

2011-12-05T15:45:00.001-07:00

Are you going to the auction tomorrow night at Auction Empire?

This seating would be nice....

My youngest could live on this....

Now this would be fun....

Fun times at the auction.

Christmas Idea House and Downtown Tree Lighting

2011-12-02T23:37:00.001-07:00

It's 11:00 on a Friday night and I realized we never got our post up about the Christmas Idea House presented by the Desert Club! The Desert Club is a wonderful organization that works to provide assistance to women and children and also offers scholarships to high school seniors. In fact, back in the day, Marily's husband was a recipient of one such scholarship.

The Christmas Idea House is the primary fundraiser for the Desert Club. Each year a luxury home is transformed into a winter wonderland - filled with beautiful and unique items for sale. Prices range from $2 to the hundreds. The Idea House will be open to the public tomorrow, Saturday, December 3rd, from 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM. Tickets are $10 each and can be purchased at the entry. For a $2 off coupon, go here.

{pictures provided by the Desert Club}

This year the home is located in The Pecans of Queen Creek, located on the south side of Chandler Heights Boulevard, just west of Ellsworth Road. Follow signs to entrance and to the event.

Also, as mentioned in our weekly event post, there will be a holiday tree in downtown Mesa - after many years of little to no decorations downtown. The event is from 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM with the tree lighting at 5:00 PM at Main and Macdonald. There will also be live music, arts and crafts, light tours, you can check out the recycled wreaths, ect.

(And my girls were a little bummed they didn't win the wreath contest, but it sure inspired us to create more art from what seems to just be trash.)

This wreath was made by my 5 year old using old magazines, cardboard and crushed up styrofoam as snow. The little "jewel" on the side that looks like a bird's nest is tin foil. I love her use of gold paint.

This wreath is from my other 5 year old. The frame is made from an old pool noodle which she covered in paper mache, then covered with cut up milk cartons and more "snow." (My girls really liked making the snow, but the snow is still all over my backyard.) She calls this her nest.

This is mine with milk carton, plastic bag and toilet paper roll flowers. I also used a pool noodle as the base and covered it with an old book. I used an old skirt for the material, a Thanksgiving pie tin as a star, a cracker box for the fan flower, old wire for another star and my favorite was the stripes made from pencil shavings (or maybe it was using my blow torch to heat up the material and plastics).

We may not have won, but we did have fun creating! What could you make from trash?

Things To Do in Mesa, Arizona This First Week of December

2011-11-30T15:14:00.000-07:00

Here is our weekly round up of fun events going on right here in Mesa. Enjoy!

- FREE Bahama Bucks. Yep, this is first on the list because I just might be first in line on Tuesday, December 6th to get my free small shaved ice. The workers at the Bahama Bucks on Power, south of Baseline are gearing up for a big turnout. (You don't have to be first in line, EVERYONE gets a free small shaved ice.)

- Check out Superstition Farms Moo-ey Christmas. Moo-ey Christmas runs the first 3 Fridays and Saturdays in December from 5:00 - 9:00 PM. For $7 enjoy a night time hayride, the petting zoo, and play in the Superstition Farm "snow." For a few extra dollars, take a picture with Santa, feed the animals, ride a horse, and enjoy breakfast for dinner from the awesome SuperFarm Super Truck. There will also be the MOO-ey Market Place to purchase one of a kind items like local jam, honey and granola, even Christmas decorations. More tantalizing details here. (And if you are looking to make your trip a little less expensive, forget Groupon, try this Moopon here :)

- "The City of Mesa operates surplus sales every Tuesday and Thursday from 8:00 AM to noon at the City of Mesa Warehouse, 7041 E. Adobe. Bicycle prices have been slashed by 75 percent through Dec. 22, all items marked with a red dot are 25 percent off and all desktop computers prices have been reduced $20." There are more items for sale (even clothes, who knew?) so for more information, go here.

- Highland Elementary, 3042 E. Adobe, is having a Winter Wonderland Boutique this Saturday, December 3rd from 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM. Shop for handcrafted gifts, visit vendor displays and enjoy live music from the students. Even get your picture with Santa. Proceeds help to fund all the wonderful plays and musicals that Highland's students put on each year. If you enjoy arts in the schools, come out and show your support.

- Don't forget Motorcycles in Main this Friday. Details here.

- This week my girls and I have created fun wreaths made out of materials that normally would just go in the trash. We used old pool noodles, pie tins, an old skirt, milk jugs, old magazines and books, toilet paper tubes, diaper boxes...if you want to see our "unique" wreaths, head down to downtown Mesa and enjoy MACfest this Saturday and stick around from the tree lighting (I'm still trying to track down the time of the tree lighting.)

- Catch a showing of "A Christmas Carol" or "The Best Christmas Pageant Ever" now at the MAC.

- If you are thinking of purchasing a poinsettia for your home this winter, please buy local! Support Westwood FFA. "The FFA greenhouse is full of pretty poinsettias in red, red/white, red/pink and rose for $5, $10 and $15. Sue Larsen in the Ag Department will be glad to take your order. Call (480) 472-4590." These were lovingly planted and grown by the students.

- Finally, the Mesa Arizona Temple lights are in full display now through the end of the year. Enjoy live performances each evening. It's like candy for your eyes and ears and it's all free. For a list of performances and more details, go here.

Plenty to do and see.

(A glimpse of toilet paper roll, milk jug, and plastic bag flowers.)

(P.S. If you want to help Westwood High School win $50,000 from Clorox, please go vote here!)

Ideas for Holiday Giving

2011-11-29T14:05:00.000-07:00

This time of year tends to remind us of the needs around us. We've put together a short list to help you get started if you are looking for an opportunity to give time, money, or both this holiday season.

First, you should know about the Arizona Working Poor tax credit. This credit allows you to receive a dollar-for-dollar tax credit for giving to certain charities. You can receive a tax credit of up to $400 when filing a joint tax return, or up to $200 when filing a single tax return. This means you can give and essentially get your donation back when you file your state taxes. Go here for more information, including a complete list of qualifying charities.

Here are a few giving ideas:

Sponsor a family for Christmas through Save the Family.
Host a "Food and Funds" drive for United Food Bank.
Volunteer your time or donate baby items, clothes, other items, or cash to the Child Crisis Center.
Most grocery stores and many other stores have bins at the front for holiday drives. Fry's Grocery stores have teamed up with Channel 3 for a holiday food drive. Safeway has pre-filled bags of groceries you can purchase for $10. These are only a few ideas, there are many more around town.

Here's a short list of some other East Valley charities:

A New Leaf-- domestic violence and homeless shelters, foster care services, counseling, etc
Paz de Cristo - provides food and programs for homeless
Sirrine Adult Day Health Services
Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest
Community Bridges
Central Arizona Shelter Services
Marc Center
East Valley Adult Resources
Boys and Girls Club of the East Valley

It's always a good way to keep in the proper spirit of the holidays to give to those who really need it. We hope you'll consider some kind of charitable giving this season.

And our winner is.....(and a few things to do this weekend)

2011-11-21T09:22:00.001-07:00

Beth Alvis-Delci you just won an iPad or iPhone case from Karas Kustoms!
Please e-mail us at iheartmesa@gmail.com to claim your prize.

Thank you to everyone who entered. If you didn't win today, but are in the market for a great well constructed case for your Apple product, don't forget about Karas Kustoms Black Friday deal. "KarasKustoms is having a Black Friday sale! Enter the coupon code BLACKFRIDAY from 11/25 to 11/28 for 25% all of our Apple Cases! Tell your friends!"

If you are wondering about things to do in Mesa this week, don't forget to check out our Fall Guide where we talk about the Turkey Trot and Fountain Hill's Thanksgiving Day parade. Also, the day after Thanksgiving, you may want to check out the spectacular Tempe Fantasy of Lights Opening Night Parade.

We'll be back tomorrow with more great ideas!

Motherhood Retreat

2011-11-18T07:19:00.000-07:00

We realize this is so very last minute. But we realize than many of our readers are mothers, mothers who are trying their best every day despite their hard job. I know personally, there are times where I feel like a choir should be in my home singing "We Are the Champions" by Queen when I finally get all 4 of my little girls in bed.

Last night a reader let us know about a motherhood retreat this weekend in Gilbert. Mothers can enjoy topics such as, "Taking care of the 'me' in the 'mom,' Effective parenting partnerships with husbands, Helping children WANT to behave, Teaching kids about work and money, Building a family culture that will trump peer culture, Making great ideas into reality."

The retreat is this Saturday, November 19th from 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Cost is $130 and lunch is included.

In attendance will be Arizona's Mother of the Year, the National Young Mother of the Year. The retreat is put on by The Power of Moms and is co-sponored by American Mothers, Inc. For more information, go here.

(This would be me, at the top of Snowbowl, trying to get 4 grumpy girls to look at the camera. I wasn't so successful.)

Boutiques, Shirts and Giveaway - Keeping it Local.

2011-11-17T08:31:00.002-07:00

It is boutique season and there are a few here in the East Valley we thought you should know about:

- Backyard Boutique: 1055 W. Mountain View Dr. Mesa, 85201. This Friday, November 18th and Saturday, November 19th from 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM. For a preview of just some of the items offered, go here.

- Urban Spice Boutique: 2451 E. Desert Ln, Gilbert, 85234. Today, Thursday, November 17th through Saturday, November 19th from 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM. Food is also for sale, so you can grab lunch or dinner and sit and visit. For more information and the food menu, go here.

(this picture has nothing to do with boutiques, shirt orders or giveaways, other than my little girl makes me smile.)

Also, just a reminder, shirt orders must be finalized by Monday! Such a unique local present. I'm stocking up for birthday presents my girls can give to friends.

And...don't forget our iPad and iPhone case giveaway from Karas Kustoms. You have until Sunday night to like them on FB, leave them a message on their wall, and leave us a comment. Hurray for buying local! Support our local economy.

Mesa Business Spotlight: Karas Kustoms - local machinist shop and GIVEAWAY

2011-11-16T07:34:00.001-07:00

Last month I was introduced to a business that is just as old as I Heart Mesa is. Karas Kustoms, a local machinist shop, turned 3 years old this month. For 3 years they have been building and fabricating custom metal parts for local businesses, all at their west Mesa location.

Bill Karas always knew he wanted to be a machinist. He had a passion for creating with his hands and took that passion and years of experience and training into starting his own business. Shortly after, Dan Bishop struck up a conversation with Bill when he realized Bill was the one behind this custom built bike, a bike that would make any child light up with delight.

That conversation led to Dan landing a job as design lead at the shop. Since then Bill and Dan have had fun creating, designing and building all within the Mesa shop. It started with a model car, some salt and pepper shakers and now cases for iPhones and iPads all created out of solid aluminum, aluminum that is purchased locally. Talk about keeping it local!

Bill knows he could make more money if he outsourced production to China. But Bill also knows he takes pride in building things that last a lifetime and would rather make less money and "give my neighbor a job." It's that personable attitude that has allowed Karas Kustoms to be a growing business during this difficult economy.

Bill and Dan were able to give me a tour around the shop. And while Bill and Dan have heard some say dirty work is dumb work, I am here to tell you, these guys prove that idiotic statement wrong. Coding this machinery is like speaking a 2nd language. And the process of design - oh wow.

My time at the shop was very enjoyable. I enjoyed hearing about Bill and Dan's love for Mesa (they both live in Mesa) and how they want Mesa to thrive. I enjoyed seeing some future products that are in the works (shhh, it's a secret...) and was happy to be given this custom top to take home to my family. You'll learn more about the top in our "I Heart Mesa Gift Guide."

Now that you have gotten to know the guys behind Karas Kustoms I Heart Mesa style, it's time for a giveaway - Karas Kustoms would like to give away an iPad or iPhone case to one lucky I Heart Mesa reader! In order to enter, you must:

- Head over to FB and like KarasKustoms.
- While there, leave a comment on their wall.
- Finally, let us know here by commenting!

(As your prize you may choose any Apple case from Karas Kustoms, except the brass and copper cases.)

Winner will be chosen at random. Giveaway ends Sunday, November 20th at midnight and winner announced Monday the 21st.

Simple - awesome product, now go.

(And if you happen to be an android person and not an apple, still enter - I may be able to persuade Dan and Bill to switch your winnings to this awesome pen. Seriously, it's like the maglite of pens. Below is not a picture of super bullets, it's these pens in production! I want one. Once you have one in your hands, you'll know it'll be the last pen you purchase. Though you may have to wait until production is done. Or, you could always get one of these salt and pepper shakers. Such neat stuff. Check them out.)

Thank you Karas Kustoms for giving me the tour. It is always refreshing to get to know more people just as passionate about our community.

-Kathryn

Auction Tonight and Arizona Balloon Classic

2011-11-15T06:00:00.000-07:00

Tonight is another fun auction at Auction Empire. You can preview all items from 10:00 AM today until the auction begins at 6:00 PM. I was able to browse through their online catalog. I possibly have my eye on:

- Campbell Hausfeld General Purpose Spray Gun. I have a list of about 10 things I would paint in my house if I owned a spray gun.

- 1950's dresser and mirror. I love furniture with clean lines. (Maybe I could use the spray gun to paint it an awesome emerald green.)

- Dark stained buffet. (I wouldn't take the spray gun to this. It could quite possibly be a crime to hide this beautiful wood.)

And I don't know how I missed this fun event, but our designer, Angela Hardison, sent us the information on the Arizona Balloon Classic at Wild Horse Pass this weekend, Friday the 18th, Saturday the 19th and Sunday the 20th. Watch over 50 balloons take flight each morning and night and enjoy all the other festivities while there. For more information, go here.

Things To Do in Mesa, Arizona for November 19th-21st.

2011-11-14T07:09:00.001-07:00

I am ready for a new week, a fresh start. Hope you can find something interesting to do this weekend.

(Picture of my girls' backpacking trip in northern Arizona a few weekends ago. Arizona is amazing!)

- Create a wreath to be displayed during December in downtown Mesa using reusable or recyclable material. Youths and adults are encouraged to participate. Youth wreaths will be judge in 3 age groups, ages 5-8, 9-12, and 13-18 and 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place in each age group will receive a cash prize. Adults 19 and older can receive show, museum and dining vouchers for winning wreaths. I personally am excited to enter with my girls. I think they will love seeing their art displayed in Downtown and I think it will add a unique touch to the Mesa holiday decor. Winning would just be a side perk. To participate, you must send in your entry form by November 21st and wreaths must be completed and delivered to the MAC by November 29th or November 30th. For entry form and more detailed information on participation rules, click here.

- Saturday, November 19th from 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM enjoy a free concert at Superstition Springs benefiting the United Food Bank. Bring food to donate and enjoy listening to Plastic Gladys with special guest Vinyl's End. Information via Arizona Shopping Secrets.

- Saturday, November 19th at 9:00 AM is the Gilbert Days Parade. Celebrate with the theme of "100 Years of Progress" as the parade kicks off Arizona's 100 year Heritage Celebrations. The parade starts at Juniper and Gilbert Road and travels south on Gilbert Road. There will be a craft fair and festival in Downtown Gilbert following the parade. And then don't miss the Gilbert's Farmers Market from 1:30 - 5:30 PM. Flyer found here.

- Saturday, November 19th from 5:30 - 7:30 PM enjoy movie night at Hubbard Family Swim School. Cost is $4 per person, maximum of $15 per family. Those 3 and under are free. Float around in the indoor heated pool while watching Monsters, Inc. Information from here.

- Christmas preview event at Domestic Bliss in Downtown Mesa. November 18th and 19th from 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM bring this ad for 20% off one item.

If you have any events that you would like posted, please send them to iheartmesa@gmail.com for consideration.

Veteran's Day Freebies and Craigslist

2011-11-10T22:42:00.000-07:00

Happy Veterans Day. If you are a veteran or active military member, we applaud you and want to make sure you know about free offers around town. Check out the zoo for free, eat at Texas Roadhouse, New York Pizza Dept. and others. Go here, to see deals in the area.

Also, here is a quick Craigslist post for your enjoyment.

1. Aqua Dresser: $125, Mesa. Solid wood dresser from the 1920's.

2. Wardrobe: $175, Mesa. Love the details. Would look excellent in a new color. Great storage inside.

3. Table: $30, Mesa: Top lifts up to reveal hidden storage. I love secret spaces. I wish my house had secret tunnels.

4. Adult Tricycle: $250, Mesa. Is it odd that I've always wanted an adult tricycle? This one is a beaut.