Category: Things-to-Do

Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch in Gilbert, Arizona Creek
Family Travel, Things-to-Do, Travel Tips

Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch: Gilbert, Arizona’s Hidden Nature Escape (+Video)

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riparian-preserve-at-water-ranch-in-gilbert-arizona-entry-map

Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch: Gilbert, Arizona’s Hidden Nature Escape

Whenever I discover a place that I love, I can’t wait to come back and tell you all about it. The Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch in Gilbert, Arizona was no different. We intended to take a quick one-mile walk, but ended up wandering over two miles. This place was just that captivating.

TIP: Bring a water bottle. You’ll need it!

A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Gilbert, Arizona

The Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch is a local park managed by the Town of Gilbert. Let me tell you, it’s a magical little world tucked right in the middle of the city. Think Bridge to Terabithia vibes: peaceful, lush, and full of surprises.

When you arrive, you’ll notice a small parking lot on the north side that fills up quickly. If you continue further west, there’s also a public library with plenty of parking. Yes, you can park there while exploring the Preserve. The parking is free.

A parking lot filled with various vehicles near the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch in Gilbert, Arizona.
Parking near Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch in Gilbert, Arizona.
Parked in a lot with several other vehicles, surrounded by green trees and a cloudy sky.
Parking near Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch in Gilbert, Arizona at the Library

What You’ll Find at the Riparian Preserve

Serene walking path surrounded by lush greenery at the
Riparian Preserve in Gilbert, Arizona.

We didn’t follow a specific trail; we just let curiosity lead the way. That approach turned out to be perfect because there’s so much to see. Here’s what you can expect:

  • 110-acre wetland and wildlife sanctuary
  • 7 ponds connected by scenic hiking trails
  • 1 recreational urban fishing lake (fishing license required)
  • 1 floating boardwalk
  • 3 overnight campsites
  • 2 reservable small ramadas
  • 2 restroom facilities (north and south ends)
Serene walking path at the
Riparian Preserve in Gilbert, Arizona.

According to AZCentral, the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch was created in 1999 to help recycle and replenish groundwater. The preserve also supports native riverside forests and wildlife habitats. Over 70 acres are dedicated to seven recharge basins, which are filled on a rotating basis with treated wastewater. I am always fascinated by how we can re-use our resources time and again.

Nature, Wildlife, and a Touch of Mindfulness

During our walk, we spotted several bird species, squirrels, rabbits, and turtles swimming through the ponds. Me and another trail-walker even discovered some wild mushrooms growing near the trees.

Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch in
Gilbert, Arizona – Turtles

One of my favorite features, were the posted Mental Health Tips along the trails. I thought the mindful health tips was such a thoughtful touch. It made me pause every time and really breathe in the calm of the space.

A sign offering a mental health tip about deep breathing at the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch in Gilbert, Arizona, surrounded by trees and a gravel path.
Sign at the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch featuring a mental health tip about anticipating positive experiences, surrounded by green foliage.
Sign displaying a mental health tip at the Riparian Preserve, emphasizing patience with an inspirational quote by Christine Caine.

Whether you are coming for exercise, photography, a quiet moment of reflection, or a family stroll, the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch lets you choose your own pace. There are benches scattered throughout the trails where you can sit and take it all in.

Would I Go Back?

Absolutely. If you’re looking for peaceful outdoor thing-to-do, this preserve is an absolute must-visit. It’s beautiful, free, and full of life, literally and figuratively. Let the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch, in Gilbert, Arizona, remind you how good it feels to just wander.

Plan Your Visit

Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch
2757 E. Guadalupe Road
Gilbert, Arizona 85234

Hours:
Sunday – Saturday: 5:30 AM – 10:00 PM

Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch in Gilbert, Arizona Creek
Appetizer, cocktails, Date Night, Dining Out, Food Opinion, Good Food, Restaurant Review, Things-to-Do, Wine, Wine Tasting

Copper & Sage – The Restaurant Meal That Defined 2024 and Will Keep Me Coming Back in 2025

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Copper & Sage Goodyear – Dinner

I am about to share the best dining tip you will ever get. Order as many dishes as your budget allows. Share them with your party.  Trust me, you will want to savor as much as possible from Copper & Sage’s incredible menu. Here is what my friends and I ordered during our visit:

Shareables:

  • Bourbon Deviled Eggs – $9
  • Fried Green Tomatoes – $12

Main Dishes:

  • Walleye Fish & Chips – $27
  • 2 Wagyu Short Ribs with Parmesan Risotto – $39 each

Dessert:

  • Beignets – Complimentary

Side:

  • Mac & Cheese – $10

Cocktails:

  • Holy Water – $13
  • Riesling – $9
  • Strawberry Hill – $14

There were three of us in our party, and this was more than enough food for everyone to enjoy.

The Dish That Defined 2024

Hands down, the showstopper was the Wagyu Short Rib with Parmesan Risotto. This dish typically comes with grits. We noticed risotto paired with another dish on the menu. We asked if we could make the switch.  Our request was graciously granted, and it was the best decision we could have made. The tender, flavorful short rib combined with the creamy, cheesy risotto melted in our mouths. It was so good we ordered two plates of it!

Wagyu Short Rib with Parmesan Risotto

But before I get carried away with the main courses, let us talk about the appetizers.

Star-Worthy Appetizers

Fried Green Tomatoes

To date, I have only had one other fried green tomato dish that wowed me as much as this one. That was in Atlanta.  Copper & Sage has officially joined that list. Their perfectly fried green tomatoes are topped with a sprinkle of chevre cheese. A balsamic reduction ties everything together beautifully. Every bite had us saying, “Ohhh, okay! Yum.  This is amazing.”

Fried Green Tomatoes

Bourbon Deviled Eggs

I love it when restaurants elevate classic dishes, and Copper & Sage’s Bourbon Deviled Eggs did not disappoint. Instead of the usual candied bacon topping, they added bacon jam—and wow.  If the phrase “bacon jam” gives you pause, do not hesitate. It is a game-changer.

Bourbon Deviled Eggs

A Second Main Dish Worth Mentioning

The Walleye Fish & Chips was another standout.  Some might find the fish a bit crispier than expected. However, this is exactly how fried fish should be. It should be crispy, crunchy, and seasoned to perfection.  This dish could easily hold its own as a satisfying lunch option.

Walleye Fish & Chips

I almost failed to mention the side of Mac & Cheese. I would not order the mac & cheese again. It was not giving what mac & cheese was supposed to give. Copper & Sage, if you read this: more cheese and cream, and this might make my recommendations list.

Macaroni and Cheese

A Sweet Finale (Almost)

Normally, we do not have room for dessert. However, we were celebrating my friend’s birthday. Copper & Sage generously provided complimentary beignets for the table.  They had great potential, but a few weren’t fully cooked in the center. My tip? Ask for the beignets to be cooked well-done.  I will be giving them another shot on my next visit.

Beignets

Drinks to Celebrate

As part of the birthday festivities, we indulged in some delicious cocktails.  Copper & Sage has an extensive house menu and a full bar to accommodate any request.  The Holy Water and Strawberry Hill cocktails were refreshing. They were perfectly balanced. The Riesling was a light and crisp addition to the meal.

Holy Water
Strawberry Hill
Riesling

Why I Will Be Back in 2025

As soon as I got home, I told my husband that Copper & Sage was the Restaurant Meal That Defined 2024.  I am already planning a return trip.  This might even be our Valentine’s Day outing next month.

If you are in the area, do not miss out on this gem.

Location Visited:
Copper & Sage Goodyear
1975 N Globe Dr, Goodyear, AZ 85338
https://copperandsageaz.com/
#copperandsageaz

Affordable, Awards, Banquets, Basketball Players, Building It Yourself, Easy To Build, Football Players, Home DIY, Living, Storage Ideas, Things-to-Do, Trophies, Tutorials, Woodworking

DIY Trophy Shelf: How to Build and Hang a Trophy Shelf in One Afternoon

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DIY Trophy Shelf: How to Build and Hang a Trophy Shelf in One Afternoon

I’ll admit it, I know my way around tools and woodworking a bit. But don’t worry, you don’t need to be an expert to tackle this project. This DIY trophy shelf is simple, affordable, and quick to execute with just a few tools and materials.

For years, my family’s trophies sat forgotten in a tub, then later on a cabinet, gathering dust. Honestly, I should have built these shelves ages ago. Don’t make the same mistake I did! Grab your materials today. Finally give those hard-earned awards, or any items you have been wanting to display, the showcase they deserve. Let’s get building!

Materials You Will Need:

  • Common Board

You can find one here for about $20:

 1 in. x 12 in. x 6 ft. Common Board 458511 – The Home Depot

  • Heavy Duty Shelf Brackets
  • Purchase them here for about $18:

Amazon.com: 4 Pcs Heavy Duty Shelf Brackets 8 Inch Industrial Metal Floating Bracket Shelving Supports Wall Mounted with Lip (Not Included Planks) : Tools & Home Improvement

Tools:

  • Saw (or have your local hardware store make the cuts for you if you don’t have a miter saw)
  • Sandpaper
  • Measuring tape
  • Drill
  • Stud finder
  • Leveler
  • Spray paint or stain (your choice of color/finish)

Let’s Get Started:

1. Cut Your Board

If you are making your own cuts, measure and cut your board to the desired length. In this example, I am making two 3-foot-long shelves from one 6 foot length board cut in half.  If you do not have a saw at home, do not worry. Most local hardware stores can make cuts for you.

2. Sand Your Boards

Move to a workspace or table and lay your boards flat.  Begin sanding each side until the surface is smooth to the touch.  This will likely be the most time-consuming step.  If you have a power sander, I highly recommend using it to cut your sanding time in half.  I sanded by hand this time because I did not feel like dragging my sander out.

Once you have sanded down both sides and eliminated any rough edges, dust off the boards to remove debris.  Be sure to also dust your workspace so it is clean and ready for the next step.

3. Paint or Stain

I chose spray paint because it is fast and easy. Staining the wood is another excellent option. It provides a beautiful finish. I have done both in other parts of my home, and they both look awesome.  Paint or stain one side of the boards and let them dry while you prepare your wall for the shelves.

4. Measure and Mark the Wall

While your boards are drying, go to the space where you plan to hang the shelves.  Use a stud finder to locate the studs in the wall.  Mark the stud locations with a pencil to ensure the shelves will be properly supported.

Next, measure and mark where the brackets will be placed.  Drill the first bracket into the wall. Use a leveler to ensure the second bracket is even before drilling it into place.  Repeat this process for the second shelf. Use a trophy or another item to gauge the appropriate spacing between the shelves.

5. Finish Painting the Boards

Once the brackets are installed, return to your workspace. Flip the boards over to paint or stain the other side.  Once finished, allow them to dry completely. (Pro tip: use this drying time to take a break or, in my case, make dinner!)

6. Assemble the Shelf

Once both sides of the boards are dry, bring them inside and place them on the brackets.  Arrange your trophies or other items on the shelves how you see fit.

7. Show Off Your Work

Finally, call everyone in to admire your craftsmanship.  Enjoy the compliments from your family. They will tell you what an amazing job you did building and hanging a trophy shelf. You accomplished this all in just one afternoon!

Final Thoughts: This project is not only quick and rewarding but also customizable.  You can build a display for trophies, books, or decor. This method can be easily adapted to suit your needs.  Happy building!

Appetizer, Dining Out, Food Opinion, Home Cooked Food, Living, Things-to-Do

Bobo’s Restaurant: The Best Breakfast in Tucson: Why Bobo’s Is Worth the Wait

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The Best Breakfast in Tucson: Why Bobo’s Is Worth the Wait

Tucson, Arizona is not just a place we drive to for concerts or a quick getaway, it’s also home to one of the best breakfast spots we’ve ever experienced, Bobo’s Restaurant.  During one of our trips, I searched for “the best breakfast in Tucson,” and Yelp led us straight to this charming gem.  With nearly a five-star rating, we knew we had to check it out.  Spoiler alert: it did not disappoint.

The Drive to Tucson

Getting from Phoenix to Tucson is an easy 95-mile drive, taking about an hour and a half.  Whether you are headed there for a specific event or just passing through, you will definitely want to make time for a stop at Bobo’s.

First Impressions

We first visited Bobo’s on a Sunday morning around 11:30 AM. It is a very small, yellow brick building sitting off a main road, that otherwise I would have driven passed.  When we arrived, about 10–15 people were already waiting outside. Pro tip: if you are not a fan of waiting, plan your visit strategically.  The wait for a table can take about an hour during peak times, but we have also visited later in the day, about 40 minutes before closing, and got seated immediately.

What’s On the Menu

Let’s talk about the food, because it’s why you go to Bobo’s, and it’s what makes the wait 100% worth it.  Over a few visits, we have tried several dishes:

  • Apple Upside-Down Pancake:  My husband says this is a breakfast masterpiece that’s equal parts sweet and filling.
  • Buttermilk Pancake: Fluffy perfection every single time. Cutting your pancakes like this makes them taste even better.
  • Chicken Fried Steak with Eggs & Fried Potatoes: Comfort food at its finest, with rich gravy. I usually put it on the side, because you cannot trust everyone’s gravy. I eventually put it on my food, since it passed the taste test. The potatoes I can have live without.
  • French Toast with Eggs & Bacon: The French toast is done how we used to make cinnamon toast in the oven as kids.

The consistency of the food is outstanding.  It is clear why Bobo’s has earned its loyal following and stellar Yelp ratings.

Cost & Value

If you do not know by now, I am always about value, and for the quality and portion sizes, Bobo’s offers unbeatable value.  Whether you are craving something hearty or sweet, you will leave both satisfied and full without breaking the bank.

Better Than Mom’s Cooking?

Bobo’s tagline is “Just like mom’s cookin’,” but honestly, they might need to tweak it to “Better than your mom’s cookin,’ at least for breakfast.  Sorry, Mom!”  It is that good.

Plan Your Visit

Location:  Bobo’s Restaurant, 2938 E. Grant Rd. Tucson, AZ 85716

Pro Tip: If you want to skip the wait, aim for non-peak hours (like just before closing or early morning).

Whether you are heading to Tucson for a concert, a day trip, or even just passing through, Bobo’s Restaurant is a must-visit for breakfast lovers.  Trust me, it is worth every mile and every minute of the wait.

Your Favorites & Recommendations

What is your go-to breakfast spot when you are on the road?  Share your favorites in the comments.  I am always looking for my next great meal!

Classes, Coffee, Date Night, Food Opinion, Living, Self-Care, Things-to-Do, Travel, Tutorials, Wine, Wine Tasting

Think Wine Tasting, but with Coffee: My Experience at Press Coffee Roaster’s Interactive 101 Class

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Think Wine Tasting, but with Coffee: My Experience at Press Coffee Roaster’s Interactive 101 Class

When I signed up for Press Coffee’s 101 class, I wasn’t entirely convinced that I’d walk out a coffee aficionado. But as it turns out, I left with some serious coffee knowledge.  Everything from where coffee originates, to how it’s processed, to what it takes to get it from the farm to your cup.

I stumbled upon this class thanks to Eventbrite’s “events you might like” feature (they know me so well), and seeing Press Coffee’s name didn’t hurt.  Press Coffee is always listed as one of the valley’s premier coffee roasters.  After all, they have 12 locations around Arizona and even supply coffee to multiple retail spots across the valley.

The Scene at Press Coffee

We arrived to find Press buzzing with coffee drinkers in the front, some sipping and socializing, others laser-focused on laptops.  In the back, there’s a spacious second level for more seating, but we stayed downstairs, where three enormous coffee bean roasters sat in all their luxuriousness, along with our cozy 12-person classroom setup.  It was perfect for both tasting and learning.

Our host welcomed us with a steamy cup of Gesha coffee.  This rare, high-end coffee ($50 per cup, just FYI!) has a unique profile that’s more tea-like than coffee-like, and he wasn’t kidding.  It was a delicate, almost floral flavor, unlike anything I’d tasted in coffee form.

The Class Kicks Off

From there, we dove into the rich world of coffee.  We learned about origins, flavors, and roasting techniques.  A cool part of the tasting was letting each blend cool down a bit and then trying it again.  Who knew a little time could bring out so many different notes?

My Favorite Coffee Roast

My favorite roast was Brazil Mogiano for its boldness, but it was also subtle. I like a medium roast. Right up the middle. My husband? He was into them all!

Behind-the-Scenes of Coffee Bean Roasting

We wrapped up with a behind-the-scenes look at the roasters and even learned about the farm Press Coffee owns, which supplies their unique beans.  If you love coffee, want a fun outing with friends, or cool date idea, I can’t recommend this class enough. And yes, you even get a code for a free bag of coffee with a subscription (no pressure to keep it, but why wouldn’t you?!).

Press Coffee 101 Details, Sign-Up, and Cost

So, who’s ready to sip like a pro?