Fountain Hills Splash Park

It's hot.  Burn your feet, scorch your skin, hot.  But, there is still plenty to do.  I personally would take this summer heat over having to bundle kids up all winter long any day.  There aren't many days here in Mesa that I feel stuck indoors. 

So, "plenty to do?"  Yes.  Indoor activities and outdoor as well.  Today's feature is on the Fountain Hills Splash Park.

Fountain Hills is located just a 15 minute drive down the Beeline Highway.  Home to the world's tallest fountain.  And inside Fountain Hills' fountain park is a splash pad.  I personally have yet to check out the splash pad, but I hear it's a good one.  Plus, you have the bonus of being right by the lake and getting to see the fountain go off every hour on the hour for 15 minutes (9 AM to 9 PM).  I know I enjoyed picnics to see the fountain or to watch my sisters run cross country in the park back in the day.   

"The Park which features 21 interactive water spray features is designed around a nautical theme. It includes water tunnels, tipping buckets, water canons and more."

image and information from here

Operates 7 days a week through the summer months from 9am to sunset.

Fountain Park is located at:  12925 N. Saguaro Blvd., Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

"Fountain Hills Splash Park is located at the Fountain Park, behind the Plaza Fountainside, on El Lago Blvd just East of Saguaro Blvd."  Or as I like to say, take the Beeline, turn at the light for Fountain Hills, lake is on the right. 

What do you want to see on I Heart Mesa?

Hi folks,

Hope you are all having a great summer in spite of the heat.  I was hoping I could ask a little tiny favor?  Do you see the little poll going on over on our sidebar?  Would you mind answering a question for us please? 

This blog is a labor of love.  We do it of our own accord because we enjoy doing it.  And we love when you send us emails or comments about I Heart Mesa.  It makes it worth our time.  It really does.  So, if you have a minute, let us know what you'd like to see here.  Answer the question from the poll or leave us a comment to let us know: what you like, what you don't like, or any other thoughts you have. 

Sorry posts about things to do have slowed down--that's just what happens in the desert during the summer.  This week though, you have several options for the Fourth of July.  Also, we always welcome your ideas for things to do and your restaurant reviews.  Send them to iheartmesa at gmail dot com.

With love,

Greater Arizona: Payson

Part of my love of Mesa comes from the fact that in just minutes, you can go from desert to pines.  I've been back east.  Scenery is the same for hours and hours, state to state.  It's beautiful, but I love the diversity in Arizona's landscape.  That is why we will often post of things to do, not just here in Mesa, but those things that seem appealing in our great state.  We'll call it:  Greater Arizona.

  

We've posted about 4th of July festivities here in the Valley, but what about those yearning to go north?  We know some of you have your special places you go: Heber, Pine, Prescott...but today I'll talk a little about Payson.

From my house, it takes under an hour and a half to get to Payson (less if my husband is driving).  When you compare that to how long it takes to get to some places in the west valley, that's nothing.  Besides, the drive is more beautiful and hopefully less congested.

For me, growing up in Mesa, Payson was the bathroom stop on our way to visit family in Snowflake.  It signals the beginning of pines if you are going up, and the descent back to desert if you are going down.  Payson was the first girls trip my friends and I took after graduating from high school.  We had a blast shopping the thrift stores and going horse back riding on the rim.  A few months ago, Payson was my babies' first fishing trip.  Each time I'm there, I wonder why I don't take more quick day trips to the pines.

That fishing trip a few months ago was my first visit to Green Valley Park in Payson.  And lets just say I was impressed.  A playground on one side of the street and then a lake with distant mountains as a picturesque background on the other.  It was beautiful.  My kids had fun running all around with cousins and catching fish with grandpa.  I enjoyed the weather and seeing my kids thrilled.  

  

image from here (Sorry, not my child, but another happy child at Green Valley Park.  My camera was broken.)

Green Valley Park is the location of Payson's 4th of July festivities, so I can imagine it will be grand.  The festivities include an evening parade on Saturday and games, music, and fireworks on Sunday.  If you are even considering, I would check out all the details here.  And even if you don't make it this weekend, you should give Green Valley Park a chance sometime.    

To get to Green Valley Park, take Highway 87 to Payson.  Once in Payson, turn left on Main Street, go approximately 1.1 miles to the end of Main Street and you are at Green Valley Park.

Flour Giveaway Winner

Thank you for all those that entered our giveaway.  I apologize for those that the Flour button did not work for.  I still don't know if I fixed anything.  You see, after I posted about the giveaway, and our 3 days of birthday magic/chaos in our home was over, babies came down with ear infections and well, I now change a million times 2 diapers a day.  I try to be doctor mom but haven't figured out how to fix the button.  (Usually, if I can't get a button to work, the non-techy that I am, I will copy the picture to my blog and then link the picture to the desired destination.)

So there you have it.  And here is our Flour winner:

Jeni at Peppertowne

Congratulations Jeni.  Since Jeni has been following us here at I Heart Mesa, I've been checking out her blog.  Jenni and her sister Amy both post to Peppertowne - Jeni from historic downtown Mesa, Amy from Utah.  They post ways to repurpose furniture and other inspiring ideas.  This one is one of my favorites that Jeni has come up with:

 What a fun and simple way to make a one of a kind swing - for cheap.  Congratulations Jeni, and maybe soon you can post a picture of you swinging in a beautiful Flour dress.

PS - Be on the lookout for a guest post from Jeni - you win, you blog (okay, not really, but we may have begged a future guest post from her.)

Tour the Universe with Pink Floyd

One of our catchiest titles yet for a post, if I do say so myself.  But, I didn't think of it.  Actually, it's Astronomy Night again at MCC.  The show for July 2nd is the brand new "Tour the Universe with Pink Floyd".

"This immersive show sets the Universe in motion with the music of Pink Floyd's iconic album 'Dark Side of the Moon'. See amazing features of the night sky you never imagined and reach the edge of the visible Universe in style. This music video was developed by students and faculty at Mesa Community College."

Friday, July 2nd from 6-10pm

Appropriate Age: all ages

Run Length: 25 minutes

Planetarium shows begin at 6:00pm and repeat every half hour. The last show begins at 9:30pm and ends at 10:00pm. FREE show tickets are handed out at the event on a first-come, first-served basis. Wait times are usually no more than 30 minutes. If a staff member does not approach you about tickets during the event, please ask for them!

Info from here, which is where you should go should you want even more info.  Thanks.

Full Moon Hike at Usery Park

Photo from here.

If you're itching to get outside, this is your chance.  After dark tonight.  Full moon.  Desert hike.  Perfect.

Usery Mountain Regional Park

3939 N. Usery Pass Road (directions here)

 

Join us for this 2.5-mile night hike under June’s “Full Strawberry Moon.” The full moon is a great time to experience new sights and sounds of the desert. Bring your sense of adventure for this fun, interpretive hike! Groups call ahead, and no dogs, please. Please bring water, a flashlight, and appropriate footwear. Location: Trail Staging Area.  (A ranger at the entrance can direct you if you've never been before.)

Date: Friday, 6/25/2010
Time: 8:00 PM
Fee: $6.00 per car

Flour Giveaway

I've known Kayleen since, well, I can't remember.  Possibly birth?  We grew up in the same square mile in west Mesa, went to the same elementary, junior high and high school.  We grew up together, playing Mesa Girls Softball and then soccer at Westwood, though I will say that Kayleen was always a much better player than I.  I was a scrawn who was glad that Kayleen was on my team, cause she was fiesty, and good, and I wouldn't want to be her opposition.    

Then Kayleen and I grew.  We didn't really see much of each other after high school, until, we discovered each other again in blog land.  I was surprised to learn that Kayleen sewed.  She was good, really good, and her blog was witty and artistic.  A few of her poetic words could say what it took me an essay to write.  Kayleen sold her handmade clothes, but over the last few months, Kayleen has taken her style, her knowledge of fashion, and started a new adventure:  Flour.  

She sells vintage clothes, even kids' vintage clothes.  But Kayleen isn't the type to just take something old and slap the name vintage on it.  Her clothes have beauty.  They exude style.  Just check out some of the selection Kayleen has available at Flour.  You'll be plesently surprised.  I am shocked at some of the pieces she has found- perfect mint condition beauties.

So, if you want to continue to support locals, and you want a little more one of a kind style added to your wardrobe, then check out Flour.  

{This is what I would buy.  Simple, not too flashy, me.}

AND....since this is birthday week at my house, I wanted to share another present with you.  Kayleen is generously hosting a giveaway here at I Heart Mesa, for a $75 giftcard towards a single purchase at Flour. 

Oh, now you are dreaming?  Well, here are all the ways you can enter - for a total of 3 entries per person.  Leave a comment and let us know if you:

- Blog about this giveaway on your personal blog.  Make sure to link.

- Go check out Flour's selection here and leave us a comment saying what you would get if you won the giftcard.

- Grab a Flour button and add it to your blog.


<a href="http://www.facebook.com/l/5d3551Q02Wnl40e_lDBOaYtZQJA;www.etsy.com/shop/flourclothing" linkindex="23"><img border="0" height="172" src="http://www.facebook.com/l/5d355jkLjjYNJQ0Uo1uUl_JpAKg;farm5.static.flickr.com/4058/4579941148_295e39dc71_m.jpg" width="175" /></a>

Giveaway closes on Sunday at midnight.  

Thanks Kayleen for hosting and for still loving Mesa after all these years.  Isn't Mesa home to some pretty awesome people?  We should be proud.

A Business Review: The Shabby Shack

For this birthday week, I thought I would share a present with you:  One of my favorite second hand furniture stores.

The Shabby Shack - my kids know it by name.  We pass, and they chime in, "There's Shabby Shack."

Located at:  2829 E. University,  Mesa, AZ 85213, next to the Circle K on the SE corner of Lindsey and University.  Open 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM Monday through Saturday.  You can check them out here (though I will be honest and say that their website isn't my favorite.  The pieces advertised make them seem more expensive.)

I've always loved redoing furniture.  I started with a few pieces in high school.  Now that I'm married and need furniture that is better quality, but at still affordable prices, I like to check out Shabby Shack.  My favorite piece that I have gotten from the Shabby Shack has been a dresser for $100.  A mid-century piece in very good condition.  Perfect for our office.  I painted it antique-ish green and it helps keep our office clutter organized.  We have also gotten a desk, a cast iron rooster, and found my mother-in-law's Christmas present there.  I'm not boasting that you will get furniture for $10, but I am boasting that they will have a good clean selection at good prices.  (And though they have good prices, I always like to ask if they will go lower.  It never hurts to ask.  Right?)  

{Sorry, you get a glimpse, cause if I showed more, you would see the mess that has accrued during this busy month}

I like Shabby Shack because it is a friendly, clean store to walk into.  Many times I have gone in with my 4 little ones in tow, and have not ever gotten those "looks" that often come when you take 4 kids ages 3 and under into a store.  A few months ago, I needed a pedestal to go under a coffee table that my dad made in high school.  I asked if they had anything that might work.  John (I think it was John and not Ron) took me around back where they have pieces that are less than perfect and found me the perfect abandoned pedestal  for resurrecting my dad's coffee table.  I asked how much, he said FREE.  I couldn't believe it.  It made my week.  Maybe I'll post pictures once I get around to finishing it.

Shabby Shack did not pay me to do a write up on our blog, but I couldn't resist passing along information on yet another great Mesa business.  Check them out.  And keep coming back, cause their selection always changes.  (Tip:  Ask for a possible discount and ask for specific pieces.  My sister-in-law did and found the perfect teak table that was in back, and not in their showroom.)  Then let us know what you think.    

Fourth of July Festivities

Image from here.

Of course Mesa is having a big event this year that you won't want to miss, but if you're looking at your options, check out this list from AZcentral.com.  Also, there are plenty of fireworks shows to choose from if you're looking for an event that's on Sunday, July 4th.

Here are some notable events near Mesa:
June 30th
Craft: 1 p.m. Kids make crafts that celebrate the holiday. Free. Bookmans, 1056 S. Country Club Drive, Mesa. 480-835-0505. http://www.bookmans.com/


Chandler 7Up Fireworks Spectacular: 4-10:30 p.m. Fireworks display at dark. Free admission, $5 parking. Tumbleweed Park, 2250 S. McQueen Road, Chandler. 480-236-9123.

Tempe Town Lake Festival: 4 p.m. This celebration includes Fantastic Family Fest, an inflatable village with rock climbing walls, face painting, relay races, rides and entertainment for kids. Cool off with water and games at the Splash Playground. $15 for two, $8 at gate, $5 and $6 in advance, free for age 12 and younger and for military with ID. Tempe Town Lake, 80 W. Rio Salado Parkway. tempe4th.com.

Apache Junction Family Fun: 6-9:30 p.m. Celebrate.  Fireworks display at 9 p.m. Free. Apache Junction High School, 2525 S. Ironwood. 480-983-2181. http://www.ajcity.net/.


Freedom Wireless Fabulous Phoenix Fourth: 6-9:30 p.m. Phoenix's 25th Annual Fourth of July event at Steele Indian School Park has entertainment on three stages, a Kids World area with inflatable rides and other activities, a classic car exhibit and fireworks. Free admission. Steele Indian School Park, 300 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix. 602-262-6862. http://www.phoenix.gov/.

Another couple of fireworks displays I found:

Living Word Bible Church
4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION
3520 East Brown Road, Mesa AZ (Northwest Corner of Brown Road and Val Vista Drive)

Sunday, July 4, 2010
Celebration starts at 5:00pm.
Event is free to attend and all are welcome.
You will enjoy...
• Delicious BBQ
• Exciting Variety Show
• Spectacular Fireworks!
Show up early to reserve your spot on the green belt. We will have security in place to watch and protect your belongings.

Bring the entire family out for this years 4th of July celebration and experience Independence Day like never before!
Info from here.

________________________________________________

Central Christian Church
Fireworks and Food Drive!

965 E. Germann Road, Gilbert AZ (Southeast corner of Lindsay and Germann)


Grab your picnic, chairs, blankets, beverages, and friends and head to Central’s Gilbert campus to celebrate Independence Day on Sunday, July 4 from 7-9 p.m. Fireworks will be shooting off at 8:30 p.m.

We’ll be lighting up the skies with fireworks to help conquer hunger, so please bring at least one non-perishable food items to contribute. We will be selling cold bottle of water, bomb pops, and glow necklaces for $1 each.

This event is FREE
Info from here.
Know of any other events going on? 

Calling all of you alls with kids

My youngest at Park of the Canals

Hello I Heart Mesa friends,

I wanted to let you know about what my family is doing this summer and perhaps see if you'd like to come along for some of it.  I am one of eight participants around the country working with an organization called Kaboom for a pretty ambitious summer challenge.  I have committed to visiting 50 parks or play areas with my kids this summer!  I might be in over my head.  And since, you know, I write for a blog about Mesa I am going to mainly stick with parks and play areas in Mesa.  Did you know there are 56 parks alone just in Mesa?  Parks, pools, splash pads, they all count toward the goal of 50 play areas.  Wanna meet me sometime? 

My kids have the most fun at a park if there are friends to play with.  And kids are so great about making friends in an instant.  So, you wanna be our friend?  We're nice, I promise.  Send me an email: iheartmesa at gmail dot com.  Let me know what parks are close to you and when might be a good time and day for you to play.  Of course we have to consider the heat and so we will be going in the mornings (leave by 10am) and in the evenings (maybe after 6pm).  We're starting next week and will continue through the summer.

I'll keep you updated as we go.  Wish us luck!

Here's a little info from the City of Mesa about its relationship with Kaboom:

KaBOOM! is a national non-profit dedicated to saving play for America's children. Their mission is to create great playspaces through the participation and leadership of communities. Ultimately, they envision a place to play within walking distance of every child in America.

In 2009, Mesa was one of 93 cities nationwide to be recognized by KaBoom as a “Playful City USA.” KaBoom, along with hundreds of volunteers, helped to construct two new playgrounds in Mesa, at Park of the Canals and Beverly Park.

Don't leave us lonely. 

Are you coming? 

P.S. This is similar to but totally separate from Mesa's Summer Challenge.  Because they don't totally overlap I am not doing Mesa's--I think I already am getting amibitious enough.  But if you are doing Mesa's Summer Challenge, send me an email: iheartmesa at gmail dot com.  I'd love to meet up with you when you go to a park or a pool!

Freebies for Birthdays

June is a busy month for us.  Well, more specifically, this week.  5 birthdays in 3 days, plus Father's Day.  Everyone in our home is celebrated this week.  

My family is different than most.  I have 2 sets of twins, born almost exactly 3 years apart.  No, we did not exactly plan for how any of this ended up, but it is quite comical how it did (comical and chaotic all wrapped into one).

Yesterday, Father's Day, my babies turned 1.  Today is a day of rest, then tomorrow is my birthday and the day after my older girls turn 4.  Boom, boom, boom.  I wonder if my body has some built in clock that says babies must be born the week of my birthday.  Cause really, my last set should not have been born so early, but they were coming whether we liked it or not.  

My children will always be my best birthday presents, but it is also fun to get freebies from restaurants and other companies around the valley.  Last year, Crystal posted on her blog a list of FREE things offered on birthdays.  Check out the link here.  Technically this week, my family could get 5 free dozen Krispy Kreme Donuts, 5 free Pizzookees, 5 free dinners at Joe's Farm Grill....well, just check out the list and see what free things you can get on your birthday when the time comes around.  And let us know if you have anything else to add to the list.  

   

These are my birthday presents.  We don't exactly do fancy at our house.  But at least they are all dressed and 2 out of the 4 are looking at the camera.  It looks more like reality this way.

Out and About

First of all, hope you all had a happy Father's Day.  Here's my husband and boys yesterday:

The banner paper, if you're interested, I bought at Paper Plus on Broadway just east of Extension.  You buy it by the yard, 95 cents/yard.  The store is also a great place to get supplies to make wedding announcements or other invitations, and they have tons of great stuff for teachers.  I bought 2 yards of red butcher paper for Father's Day, 3 yards of white butcher paper to make a mural with the kids.  Paid 5 dollars and got a huge, full-page receipt.  They are use to larger orders I think.  But I'll be back for more butcher paper another day.  It's kind of fun to use.

We've been trying to get out of the house and enjoy some of the things Mesa has to offer.  Last week we went to the library for the Craig Davis magic and juggling show.  It's an hour long show and my kids thought it was fabulous.  I liked it to, so it'll be fun for everybody.  Actually, the 11-month old wasn't too fond of it, but anyway....Craig Davis will be at the Southeast Regional Library tomorrow, if you still want to check it out.  (See upcoming events on the right.)

Friday we went to the farmers market.  Every time I go I think to myself that I should go more often.  Summertime hours are 9am to noon.  I try to go as close to 9 as I can before it gets hot.  My 5-year-old took this picture:

Afterwards, we dropped off our produce at my sister's house so it wouldn't wilt in the car while we went to the AZ Museum for Youth.  We've had a membership there since our oldest was a toddler.  It might be the best place to take young kids in Mesa.  Especially in the summertime.  The newest exhibit is about music. 

And there are always several art projects to do as well.

By the way, I have been working on the "Local Attractions" page. Check it out.

Hope you had a great weekend!  Been up to anything fun in this heat?

Mesa Parks Summer Programs

The second session of Mesa Parks and Recreation Summer Programs runs from June 28 through July 23rd. There are opening available in all programs. Enrollment is ongoing and classes will not close out until sessions are full.


Preschool children ages four to five they can participate in “Kidtastics Preschool Program,” where they can create crafts and play games to expand social skills. Meeting locations include: Stapley Elementary, Webster and Jefferson Recreation Centers. Cost for a two-week, half-day session is $40.



For elementary children ages six to 12 they can play in, “Boredom Busters,” “Xtreme Summer Program” and “Summer Sports Zone.”
In “Boredom Busters” kids will participate in activities that include crafts, games, PE skills, guest speakers, movies and theme parties. Meeting locations include: Zaharis, Falcon Hill, Washington, and Bush Elementary Schools. Cost is $100 for a four-week, half-day session that meets Monday to Thursday.

“Xtreme Summer Program” is the same as “Boredom Busters” but offers swimming opportunities weekly. Locations include Webster and Jefferson Recreation Centers. Cost is $50 for a two-week, half-day session from Monday to Friday.

“Summer Sports Zone” promotes physical activity and develops social skills and learning opportunities. Locations include Webster and Jefferson Recreation Centers. Cost is $20 for a two-week, half-day session from Monday to Friday.

For online registration, go here.  All programs offer fee assistance for families in need. For fee assistance, you must register in person at Webster or Jefferson Recreation Centers or at Mesa Parks, Recreation and Commercial Facilities Office located at 200 S. Center Street, Building No. 1.

Info directly from here.

Arizona Celebration of Freedom

This year for the first time downtown Mesa will be hosting a big, two-day event on Fourth of July weekend.  And it's FREE. 

Doesn't FREE usually need to be written in capitals?  Anyway, here's the info: 

Other things you might like to know...

The event begins Friday night with the popular “Motorcycles on Main” event in downtown Mesa and a ceremonial flag raising event at Stage America, the event’s main stage. All along Main Street, bands and other performers will be playing various genres of music, while downtown businesses including restaurants and other retail outlets will stay open to provide opportunities for unique shopping and dining.

Saturday night includes an American classic car show and the official Salute to America program featuring musical performances and a spectacular fireworks display.

Each night, the event includes “fun zones” up and down Main Street and the Wet Zone, a “you-will-get-soaked” area at the event, with more than a dozen water activities.

The Family Fun Zone, your traditional county fair area includes games, pie-eating and watermelon-eating contests, carnival games for the kids and more.

Heritage Lane includes larger-than-life inflatable replicas of some of America’s greatest monuments to freedom in front of Mesa’s Heritage Academy with famous historical characters giving tours and available for photos. Individuals can hear stories told of our founding fathers and sign their names to replicas of the Constitution and Declaration of Independence.

The Mesa Arts Center campus becomes Freedom Plaza and will feature performances by the Symphony of the Southwest and the Salt River Brass playing patriotic songs and readings in the fabulous Ikeda Theater.

Also, if you really want to get the full experience, you can get discounted downtown hotel stays at the Hyatt for $67/night or the Marriott for $69/night.  Now, wouldn't that be a fun weekend?  For details about hotels and other information about this event, go here.

I am really excited about this event.  Great job, Mesa! Hope to see you all there!

Mesa Summer Challenge

July is Park and Recreation Month and Mesa is challenging you to stay active and explore the many fun things to do in your City!

The Challenge: During the month of July do as many of the fun activities listed here as you can. Many of them are free, and some of them may be things you have planned to do already. But expand your experiences and try a few new things too! Check off each item you complete.

The Rewards: In addition to staying active, learning new things and having fun, you will have the opportunity to win great prizes. You earn one point for every activity you complete. And, if you take a photo of yourself doing it, email it to summerchallenge@mesaaz.gov, you get an extra point (for up to 5 activities).

The person who gets the most points wins a GRAND PRIZE PACKAGE (in the event of a tie, there will be a random drawing held). And EVERY person who gets at least 30 points gets entered into the 1st, 2nd and 3rd place drawing! Hey – that’s only one item a day for the month of July!

Prizes will be announced soon, but will include passes to area attractions and more!

Send your name and e-mail address to summerchallenge@mesaaz.gov to receive updates and motivation throughout the month!

For additional information on Mesa Summer Challenge activity locations or rules, go here, or call 480-644-2171.

Info and banner from here.

 

Events at Bookmans in Mesa

Sign, Sign, and Play!

Join us at Bookmans Mesa every Wednesday morning at 10 am for Sign, Sign, & Play!

A fun and interactive way for all ages and levels to learn more about American Sign Language, for free!

------------------------------------------------

Rythm and Beats 

Wed June 16th at 1:00pm

Create your own Maraca and learn how to make your own music with instructor Gerry of Guitars In The Classroom

------------------------------------------------------

 

Adopt a Greyhound

Learn more about the process of adopting a Greyhound on Saturday, June 19th at 1:00 pm

 

----------------------------------------------------------

 

The Great Arizona Puppet Theater Presents : Two Bad Mice

June 23rd at 1:00pm

Two bad Mice make big trouble- and a big mess- in a dollhouse when a little girl and her dolls go out to play. This funny show, full of slapstick action, is based on the story by Beatrix Potter.

Bookman's is located at 1056 S. Country Club in Mesa (On the west side of Country Club, just north of Southern)
 
For more information about these and other events at Bookman's, go here.

Free Hot Dog on a Stick Day

Anna called this morning with great news, today is FREE Hot Dog on a Stick Day.

One of our favorite date nights (since many times we have date night with kids included) is to go down to Superstition Springs Mall, eat at Hot Dog on a Stick and ride the carousel.  And because June 15th is Free Hot Dog on a Stick Day, our date just got cheaper.  The promotion runs from 5:00-8:00 PM tonight, but if you don't make it tonight, every Tuesday hot dogs on a stick are only $1.

Thanks Anna for the info.

Website and image found here

In Chandler: Art Walk and Summer Splash Festival this Weekend

There are two events going on in downtown Chandler this weekend if you are looking for something to do and don't mind traveling a little bit.

Downtown Chandler Art Walk (3rd Friday of every month):

This Friday, June 18th from 5pm to 9pm

From downtownchandlerartwalk.com: "The Art Walk provides a fun family atmosphere where you can browse the many different types of art available from our talented artists.  It's a great opportunity to visit all of the unique establishments in downtown Chandler.  We will feature live music from local talent."

Click here for more information.

SUMMER SPLASH FESTIVAL

Saturday, June 19, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Dr. A.J. Chandler Park (south of Chandler Blvd., west side of Arizona Ave.)

This event is open to the public. It features FREE giant water slides and swim lessons, carnival games, a Family Fun Zone and more.

Info: 480-855-3539. 

Info and picture from here.

Get out of town

All right, so this is a blog about Mesa.  But you know what?  As much as we love it here, it's hot here in the summer.  And there aren't as many things going on because, well, it's too hot outside for much else besides swimming and getting wet.  A couple of weeks ago we went with our extended family on a little day trip to Snowbowl in Flagstaff.  During the summertime they operate their skilift as a scenic ride.  There was still snow on the ground when we went the end of May. 

Admission Prices:

Adults: $12; Seniors (ages 65 –69): $8; Juniors (ages 8-12): $8; Kids 7 and under: Free ; Seniors 70 and over: Free

If you go with a group of ten or more and call in advance, your tickets are half price.  Also, there is a coupon online for 25% off.  Sweet. 

The skilift takes 25 minutes each way.  Here is the view going up:

After you get to the top you can take a short little hike to the summit of the mountain.  From there the view is incredible.  You can see as far as 70 miles, looking down on several mountains, and you can even see the rim of the Grand Canyon which is 60 miles away.

This is the view riding back down the skyride.

If you are looking for a daytrip idea, you should definitely check this out. 

Where do you go to get out of the heat?

Sewing Classes for Kids

Photos from Sally's Fabric website

My mother-in-law picked up a flyer at Sally's Fabrics. It says this:

Now introducing SUMMER KIDS CAMP DAYS

WHEN: Tuesdays and Fridays

TIME: 9:30 - 12:00 pm

DATE: June 1 to August 6

Come join us for any/all of our kids camp days! Each day each child will begin and finish a fun summer project. Each class is only $15.00 plus supplies. Class size is limited to sign up your child soon!

________________________________________________________________________________

Now introducing BEGINNING SEWING LESSONS/KIDS

This summer we will be starting our beginning sewing program for kids. These lessons are weekly - one hour classes - and will continue throughout the school year. Class size is limited to only five students to provide individual and more personalized instruction. Call and enroll your child today!

For more information, contact:
Sally's Fabrics
1235 E. Main Street
Mesa, AZ 85203
480-833-7201

What I can't tell from the flyer is whether the kids camp projects are sewing projects or some other type.  But you can call to check it out.  Also, I found out from Sally's website that the kids sewing classes are for kids ages 8-13.  Other classes for adults from beginning sewing to embroidery and more can be found here.

Saturday Spotlight: Mesa Public Pools

Photo of the splash pad at Rhodes pool from here.

Saturday Spotlight gives you an idea for some last-minute fun on Saturday or any other day. We will spotlight a different place to visit in Mesa or its surrounding neighborhoods.

Let's take a second to truly appreciate the great public swimming pools we have here in Mesa.  Actually, I think the city prefers the term "Aquatic Centers"--at least to explain the majority of them that include extra features like zero-depth entry pools with slides and kid-friendly play areas.  And it's a really great bargain for a fun summer activity.  There are six aquatic centers in Mesa.  Admission is $3.50 for adults (18+) and $1.75 for kids 17 and under.  Babies 6 months and under are free.

Brimhall: Located on Southern, near Higley.  Open Mon-Friday 1pm-7pm; Saturday 10am-6pm; closed Sunday

Carson: Located near Alma School and University.  Open Mon-Fri 1pm-7pm; Sat 11am-6pm; closed Sun

Kino: Located near Stapley and Brown.  Open Mon-Fri 1-7pm; Sat 11am-6pm; closed Sun

Rhodes: Located near Alma School and the 60 freeway.  Open Mon-Fri 1-7pm; Sat 11am-6pm; Sun 1pm-5pm.  The Flowrider at Rhodes is open additional hours: Mon, Tues, Wed 7-9pm and Fri and Sat 10am-12pm

Shepherd: Located near Higley and Brown.  Open Mon-Fri 1pm-7pm; Sat 10am-6pm; closed Sun

Stapley: Located near Val Vista and McKellips.  Open Mon-Fri 1pm-7pm; Sat 10am-6pm; closed Sun

To finish the list of Mesa pools we have these two which offer swimming at an even cheaper price since they don't have the fancy waterslides and such.  Admission is only $1 for kids and $2 for adults.

Taylor: Located near Broadway and Lindsey.  Open Mon-Fri 1pm-5pm; Sat 11am-6pm; closed Sun

Fremont: Located on Power, south of Brown.  Open Mon-Fri 1pm-7pm; Sat 11am-6pm; closed Sun

There are other discounts available, like season passes and punch passes.  For more information, including actual addresses, go here.  To see a map of these pools, go here.

Pet Adoption

image from here - Not my cat, but looks just like her.

When I turned 9, my mom and dad took me to adopt my very own cat from the Animal Shelter by Riverview.  She was the best birthday present.  She was a gray tabby.  A hunter and very independent.  She loved exploring all the land by my parents' house and would bring me home lizards and birds (and even some gophers that I tried to bring back to life).  I cried the day she never came home 11 years later.  Pets do bring something special to a home, if you are ready and able to care for one.  If you are ready to adopt a pet, now is your time.

June 12th, 2010, Mesa Riverview will host a PET ADOPTION, sponsored by the Maricopa County Animal Care and Control Agency (MCACC).

10:00 AM until 2:00 PM

Near the PETCO at 845 North Dobson

Many animals available for same day adoptions. If you know of anyone looking to adopt a pet, please let them know about the adoption.

Information straight from here

Mesa Public Schools Summer Food Program

Mesa Schools is proud to announce the 2010 Summer Meal Program. Anyone 18 years of age or younger can eat breakfast and lunch for FREE. Adults can eat breakfast for $1.25 and lunch for $3.00

Marisa sent us an email with this information.  She says:

I know times are tough for many families, so I thought that I would pass this along. This program is for ALL Mesa children, no matter your financial status.  Who doesn't love a free lunch that you don't have to make? Plus, little kids get to feel like a big kid eating in a school cafeteria.

Go here for a long list of schools in Mesa offering free breakfast and lunch.  Most schools offer free meals through the end of June, but be sure to check the dates and times of the school near you.
Thanks Marisa.

Have something you want to share with us at I Heart Mesa?  Send an email to iheartmesa@gmail.com

Usery Pass Events

This morning I was outside swinging with my daughters.  It was a beautiful morning and under the shade of our orange trees, it was perfect.  And then my husband gave me great news - weather this weekend is supposed to be 10 degrees cooler than normal.  Now that is blog worthy.

So in honor of 10 degree cooler weather (which seems even better after a few days of above normal temperatures) I thought I would blog about the goings on at Usery Mountain Regional Park over the next few days.  Besides, I don't think we have ever blogged about the new nature center at the park.  This is the new nature center:

From what I've read, it sounds like a great building with many great eco-friendly features.  I saw this during construction, but sadly have not been since they opened it.  A few of these events at Usery Pass occur at the new nature center.  This week would be a great time to check it out.  Have any of you been to the new nature center?  What did you think?

Events at Usery Pass:

Wildlife Safari 

We all love to see wild animals, but where are they hiding this time of year? Join us on this exciting 1.5-mile wildlife safari as we sneak to the secret places where the park’s wildlife is often seen. Feel free to bring your camera and binoculars. Please bring water and appropriate footwear. Location: Trail Staging Area.

Date: 6/10/2010

Time: 8:00 AM

Registration Required: No

Fee: $6 per car

All About Rattlesnakes - Evening "Brown-Bag It" with Ranger B

How dangerous are rattlesnakes? What should you do if you encounter one? How do they survive and thrive in our desert? If you would like to know the answers to these questions, or any questions you may have about rattlesnakes, then this one-hour presentation is for you! Bring your sandwich to the “Brown-Bag It” series inside our Nature Center as Ranger B shares some amazing facts about these misunderstood reptiles. 

Join our “Animal Hide & Seek Flashlight Walk” at 8:00pm at no extra cost! We are the nocturnal animals of the desert and we like to hide. Help Ranger B find us if you can! If you would like to learn about us and enjoy a night walk in the desert, then join Ranger B as he takes you on this exciting 1-mile, 1-hour walk along the Merkle Trail. The well-manicured Merkle Trail offers universal access and the hard-smooth surface of this trail will accommodate wheelchairs and strollers. Please bring water and a flashlight. No dogs, please. 

Date: 6/11/2010

Time: 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM then 8:00 PM for Animal Hide & Seek

Registration Required: No

Fee: $6.00 per car

"Just for Kids" - Lookin' for Lizards 

Kids, do you like lizards? Do you like little ones and large ones, leapin’ ones and lazy ones? Come on out to Usery Park and join Ranger B on this exciting 1-mile, 1-hour walk in search of these rockin’ reptiles! Not only will you learn about lizards but you will have a lot of fun lookin’ for lizards as well. Please bring water and hats. Location: Families meet at Area 6.

Date: 6/12/2010

Time: 8:30 AM

Registration Required: No

Fee: $6.00 per car

All About Owls - "Brown-Bag It" with Ranger B 

What makes owls so different from other birds? Which owls live in our area? How do they survive and thrive in our desert? If you would like to know the answers to these questions, or any questions you may have about owls, then this one-hour presentation is for you! Bring your sandwich to the “Brown-Bag It” series inside our Nature Center as Ranger B shares some amazing facts about these rockin’ raptors. Location: Nature Center.

Date: 6/12/2010

Time: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Registration Required: No

Fee: $6.00 per car

Usery Pass Park Hours

Sunday-Thursday: 6:00 AM-8:00 PM

Friday-Saturday: 6:00 AM-10:00 PM

365 days a year

Usery Mountain Regional Park

3939 N. Usery Pass Road

Mesa, AZ 85207

Ph: 480-984-0032 Fax: 480-357-1542

userypark@mail.maricopa.gov

information and image from here