Summertime Fun at your Ironhorse Tramanto Apartment

summertime fun in PhoenixSummer is almost here! It is time to put down the remote and get out for summertime un in and around your Phoenix apartment. 

Let’s start the summer off by exploring the amenities at Ironhorse at Tramonto apartment community!

If you are like many of us, you have been spending a lot of time in your apartment binge-watching Netflix and Hulu! It is okay, but with the warmer weather coming, you may want to get back into summer shape. The fresh air fitness center and smoothie bar are the perfect places to start.

Here are some tips to getting into summer shape in just 4 weeks.

Now that you are getting back in shape, it is time to take a relaxing dip in the pool or grab a book and spend the day reading by the pool! If you are looking for the perfect swimsuit or cover-up, Exquisite Swimwear Collection at Nathalie & Company and Bilbo Sportswear have some great options. Both stores are open for indoor and online ordering. 

Do you love eating outside in the summer? Of course, you said yes, and the outdoor kitchen and dining area will have you eating under the stars all summer long. After your meal, gather with friends and neighbors for a friendly game at the outdoor game area.

Take a hike at one of the many trails in the Phoenix area. From easy to more difficult, these trails are a great opportunity to get some fresh air while you explore the views, the desert, and nature. If you bring your four-legged friend along, be sure to give him a bath in the pet wash station at your Ironhorse at Tramonto apartment in Phoenix. 

We hope that you get out and enjoy the summer in and around your Phoenix apartment.

Add Harmony to Your Phoenix Apartment with Feng Shui

Phoenix ApartmentLiving in an environment that is harmonious and peaceful is important to your overall well-being. With that in mind, we are sharing some ancient Chinese feng shui home tips to help you make your Phoenix apartment a perfectly balanced and peaceful space.

What is Feng Shui?

Feng Shui is an ancient Chinese art. The words literally mean “wind-water”. Both are associated with good luck, and good health. To increase good vibes in your apartment, follow these three easy feng shui home decor tips.

Declutter

The most important objective in creating feng shui is allowing for the flow of good energy, or chi, throughout your apartment. Decluttering is the easiest way to bring Chi, good health, into your apartment. It is time to clear out closets, the space under the bed, and all cabinets and shelves. Keep only the items you love and discard or donate the old and unused.

Improve Air Flow

Good energy and airflow are important to creating good energy in your Ironhorse at Tramonto apartment in Phoenix. Open the windows to increase airflow. Maximize light movement by keeping glass, mirrors, and windows clean. If your apartment has some space that needs a little brightening? Add a lamp to illuminate the spot or place a mirror in a brighter location that reflects light to the darker area.

Add Plants

Adding plants to your apartment helps purify the air. They also attract a vibrant chi energy due to their life force. 

Choose these lucky plants that provide good energy:

  • Lucky Bamboo
  • Peace Lily
  • Ficus
  • Rubber Plant
  • English Ivy
  • Palm
  • Boston Fern
  • Philodendron
  • Spider Plant

Avoid cactus, spiky (unfriendly) plants, or plants that do not require water. They do not provide chi energy.

These three easy feng shui tips will help you create a harmonious environment in your beautiful Phoenix apartment. 

 

Clean Your Phoenix With These Green Clean Tips

Spring Cleaning Phoenix ApartmentSpring is right around the corner, bringing with it blooming flowers, budding trees, and green lawns. It also means spring cleaning your Phoenix apartment. While we are thinking green, why not use these eco-friendly products to keep your home clean this spring.

Use Natural Cleaning Products

Substitute products with harsh chemicals like chlorine, triclosan, and ammonia with more ecological solutions. Combine vinegar, baking soda, lemon juice, and hydrogen peroxide for an all-purpose cleaning solution.

Clean your Bathroom the Healthy Way

Cleaning your toilet and tub with a commercial cleaner can leave behind traces of chemicals that can be harsh on your skin and pollute area waterways. Try using a grapefruit and salt for a natural, fresh smelling, and effective bathroom cleaner.

Keep Your Toilet Sparkling Clean Naturally

Sprinkling baking soda inside of your toilet will save you time each week and will help save the environment. Adding a small amount of white vinegar to the toilet bowl will help keep it fresh in between cleaning.

Use Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products

Paper towels are easy to use but they can be wasteful. Replace paper towels with more eco-friendly sponges and cloths instead. There are several compostable cleaning wipes available in stores and online. Amazon carries a biodegradable, environmentally friendly and affordable product from Green Works.

Use Natural Room Fresheners

It is easy to grab a spray bottle of air freshener, but many of these products have chemicals and the plastic bottles that fill landfills across the country. Instead of using these commercial products, why not make refreshing and natural spray using water, vodka, and lilac oil. Find the full recipe for this sweet, eco-friendly spray here.

These green-clean products will help you spring clean your Ironhorse at Tramonto apartment in Phoenix naturally, leaving you more time to get out and enjoy all the joy that spring brings. 

 

5 Ways to Stay Cozy in Your Phoenix Apartment

phoenix apartmentIt is that time of year where everything is cool outside and many of us are spending more time indoors in our homes. But just because it is cold outside does not mean your Phoenix apartment can’t be warm and cozy.

Here are 5 easy ways to make your apartment warm, welcoming and cozy without spending a lot of money or time. 

Aromatic Mulling Spice 

This is an easy way to make your home feel cozy. You will need sliced apples, cinnamon sticks and whole cloves. You can also add orange rinds and lemon peels. Simply add water to a pot and bring it to a consistent simmer and your home will smell warm and cozy.

Bring the Outdoors in with Pinecones

Gather or purchase some pinecones. (If you find them outside, bake them at 200 degrees for an hour and let cool.) Spray them with a coat of adhesive and sprinkle on cinnamon. Next,  shake off the excess cinnamon and place them in a bowl to make your home smell warm and cozy.

Festive Lights 

Lights make wintertime cozy and magical, but they aren’t just for the holidays. String lights around an indoor plant, place them in a bowl on a shelf or along a doorway to add a warm and cozy aesthetic to your apartment. 

Add Plants

Plants add warmth, life, and color to your home. Try adding these flowering variations, orchids, African violets, or peace lilies. These blooming plants are easy to grow and will make your Phoenix apartment feel cozier.

Add Cozy Pillows

Adding pillows can make relaxing in bed or on your sofa cozier. Select velvety pillows or soft plush pillows that enhance the look and comfort of your Ironhorse at Tramonto apartment.

These 5 tips to make your home cozier, just might make you love your apartment even more than you already do. 

Achieve Your 2021 Apartment Resolutions

Ironhorse at TramontoMake 2021 the year that you achieve all of your apartment goals. Rather than trying to complete them all in the first month, set small, short-term goals throughout the year. From sprucing up your Phoenix apartment to saving meals on takeout to utilizing Iron Horse at Tramonto’s many amenities, here are five achievable apartment resolution ideas. 

No More Take Out

You may not be going out as much, but many of us quickly turn to take out for meals. It may be convenient, but it is also costly! Instead of ordering your meal, prepare weekly meals, and save $30 to $50 per week. 

Take Advantage of the Fitness Center at Ironhorse at Tramonto

Instead of renewing your gym membership, why not try out the fitness center, or swim laps in the pool. If you are like many of us, it is easier for us to hit the “Next Episode” button on Netflix, than to head to the gym, starting slow and sticking to a schedule is key to achieve your fitness goals this year!

Upgrade Your Furniture

Maybe you have been sitting on a hand-me-down sofa or one that you purchased for your previous home, this might be a good time to replace your furniture. Furniture retailers are looking to make room for new stock and often discount furniture in January and February.

Declutter 

A new year – a new start! Declutter your countertops, empty that junk jar, and remove or donate clothing that you no longer wear.

Deep Clean Your Apartment

The new year is a perfect time to do a deep clean of your apartment in Phoenix. Take it room by room and focus on those areas that you skip during your regular cleaning routine. 

Safely remove and clean the showerhead with a mixture of water and vinegar. Move furniture and vacuum or sweep those pesky dust bunnies. A new year is also a great time to wash your bed linens and maybe adding new pillows or a comforter. 

These 5 apartment resolutions are the perfect way to say good riddance to 2020 and welcome in 2021.

 

Celebrating the Holidays in Phoenix

celebrate the holidays in Phoenix The holidays might be a bit different this year, but that does not mean you have to skip out on celebrating the holidays in Phoenix this year. 

Nothing says bright and merry like holiday lights and trees and while some of the biggest holiday celebrations, like Lights of the World, have been put on hold this year, there are plenty of holiday displays near your Ironhorse at Tramonto apartment to get you in the holiday spirit. 

World of Illumination

Located just 20 minutes from your apartment in Phoenix, you will find World of Illumination’s Rockin’ Christmas. This drive-through holiday extravaganza is in the Westgate Entertainment District. Be prepared to be dazzled by a mile-long display of lights and holiday music. Enjoy life-sized animated characters, a dazzling light show, and millions of colorful lights. 

This holiday display runs through January 3rd, 2021 and tickets must be purchased ahead of time. Why not learn more and purchase tickets on their website

ZooLights

ZooLights, a popular way to celebrate the holidays in Phoenix, has been turned to Cruise ZooLights. While you won’t be walking through the zoo this year, it will still be as fantastic. This drive-thru experience includes millions of twinkling lights, a light show with music, and the Wildlife Lantern Safari.

This safe-distancing holiday display runs through January 31st. Tickets and more information can be found here. 

Neighborhood Light Displays

Many of us are looking for ways to brighten this holiday season and are decking the halls with lights a glory. 

To help you celebrate we put together a list of some of the best neighborhood light displays in and around Phoenix. You can also check out AZAM’s Cory McCloskey on Facebook and Instagram, just search for #VeryCoryChristmas.

Tumbleweed Christmas Tree in Nearby Chandler

Who needs a good old-fashioned Christmas tree when you have tumbleweeds! About 45 minutes from your apartment in Phoenix you can find a Tumbleweed Christmas tree! A holiday staple, this Christmas “tree” is made from more than 1500 tumbleweeds! The only tumbleweed tree of its kind, it is a must see this holiday season. So, pack the kids, pack a snack (or two) and head to Chandler to take in the Tumbleweed Tree this year. 

More information can be found here.

We hope that you have a very merry holiday season and that these tips have made celebrating the holidays in Phoenix, a little brighter. 

Thanksgiving in Phoenix

Thanksgiving in PhoenixThanksgiving is meant for traditions, gathering with family, and eating a festive Thanksgiving dinner, But this year is a bit different so we thought that we would share some twists on some old favorites to help you celebrate Thanksgiving in Phoenix.

Green Bean Casserole

One of the most popular Thanksgiving side dishes is the beloved green bean casserole. Instead of making the classic green bean casserole with condensed soup, canned beans, and fried onions, try these twists to an American classic.

Add Bacon – adding some bacon crumbles to your classic recipe kicks this classic casserole up a notch.

Add Cheese – Use either cheddar cheese soup instead of (or in addition to) cream of mushroom soup or add grated cheese.  Either way adding cheese to green bean casserole is a delicious way to change things up.

Make it from Scratch – Instead of using condensed cream of mushroom soup, use heavy cream, a tablespoon of flour, fresh mushrooms, Worcestershire sauce, chopped red peppers, and Parmesan cheese.

Add Artichokes – Add drained, chopped artichokes and cheese to your traditional recipe for a delicious twist!

Apple Cider Gravy

Let’s face it, gravy is pretty yummy, but it’s packed full of calories. You can make a low-fat gravy recipe by adding apple cider vinegar. This is a great way to keep your gravy healthy without sacrificing the dressing you love. Plus, it goes great with everything. Get the recipe.

Cornbread and Sausage Stuffing

Sausage can take any dish to an entirely new level. This year swap out your pork sausage for some turkey sausage when combing meat to classic dishes like cornbread stuffing. Plus, should you choose to omit the butter, you can cut out twice the fat. Get the recipe here. 

 Maple-Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Potatoes are a hearty addition to any meal. Need to add something sweet to your sweet potato recipe? Try this maple-glazed version that makes the perfect, flavorful addition to this traditional side dish.  Get the recipe.

Enjoy a new twist on traditional Thanksgiving recipes while cooking in your Ironhorse at Tramonto apartment in Phoenix.

Celebrate Halloween in Phoenix

halloween in phoenixIt is that time of year again!  The time to celebrate witches, zombies, pumpkins and other things that howl or go bump in the night. Yes, it is Halloween and even in a pandemic, the Phoenix area really knows how to celebrate!

Check out these spooktacular ways to celebrate Halloween in Phoenix this year!

Haunted Houses

Ghosts and Zombies won’t be reaching out and grabbing you this year, but there are still a lot of reasons to be scared when you visit these Phoenix area haunted houses.

Fear Farm

One of Phoenix’ favorite haunted houses will return this year, but tickets are limited, so purchase them early! Expect a bit of social distancing and masks on the monsters. You will be frightened by Bloody Mary, clowns, the living dead, and monsters that inhabit the attractions at Fear Farm.

The Haunted house runs through November 7th and is located at 2209 North 99th Avenue in Phoenix. For more information and to purchase tickets in advance, visit their website.

13th Floor 

Another Haunted House that will open this year is 13th Floor Haunted House. Located at 284 West Bell Road, Phoenix, it is open through November 7th. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit their website.

Throw Your Own Halloween Party

You don’t need to invite a lot of people or spend a lot of money to have a Spooktacular Halloween party this year. Simply follow these tips to create some ghoulish fun!

Decorate for Halloween in Phoenix

Give your guests a scare when they enter your home by spray painting a grapevine wreath with flat black paint and attaching cardboard crows all over them and a Halloween themed ribbon.

Instead of carving your jack-o-lanterns paint them! Use duct tape to create patterns and then spray paint checks, stripes, or other shapes.

Gather sticks and use black ribbon and white glue to make a simple Halloween display with flying bats.

Create Some Hauntingly Good Treats

Mummy Wrapped Brie

This easy to make treat is sure to please all your guests. Purchase frozen puffed pastry and cut it into strips.  Place the strips on a baking sheet in different angles and then place the Brie chees on top. Next wrap the Brie and bake until the dough is lightly brown. Add apple slices and raisins for the mummy’s eyes!

Bone Pretzels

Purchase frozen pizza dough and form several balls. Roll out the balls into tubes and form a knot at the end to look like bones. Sprinkle generously with a coarse salt and bake in the oven according to the directions on the box or until they are lightly brown. Serve with brown mustard, for a delicious Halloween snack.

Stay-At-Home Halloween Activities

Play Halloween Bingo or watch your favorite classic Halloween Movie.

Try these ideas and activities to celebrate Halloween in Phoenix this year!

 

Staying Healthy in Phoenix

Staying Healthy in PhoenixStaying healthy can be a challenge, especially these days when we are spending so much time in our apartments and many of our favorite spots are closed or have limited access. Exercise, sleep, diet, and stress reduction are some of the key factors for good physical and mental health. Here are some tips on how to stay healthy in North Phoenix.

Exercise in Phoenix

As we enter the fall season and say goodbye to the hot summer days, this is a great time to get out for a hike. From kid-friendly, to moderate, and challenging, here is a https://www.alltrails.com/us/arizona/phoenix list of some hiking trails near your apartment in Phoenix. 

Get Enough Sleep

During times of uncertainty, you may be finding it difficult to get a good night’s sleep. But sleep is crucial to allow your body to remain healthy. Try going to bed at the same time every night and turn off electronics. If you are still having difficulty getting your Zs, try a sound machine or add scents that encourage slumber like lavender. 

Eat Healthily

From farm-to-table, farm stands, plant-based restaurants and all the vegan treats, you do not have to go far from your Ironhorse at Tramonto apartment to find something delicious and wholesome.

Verdura

5555 N 7th St
Ste 108
Phoenix, AZ 85014
(602) 283-5168

Website

This plant-based restaurant is open for patio dining and to-go orders! Its menu includes shareables, salads, sandwiches, and smoothies! All plant-based, all organic, and all delicious!

Flower Child

100 E Camelback Rd
Phoenix, AZ 85012

With several locations, Flower Child is fast becoming a local favorite for those looking for healthy eating options. They feature tasty bowls, wraps, organic wine and beer, and a kids’ menu. They promise to serve from scratch, farm-fresh ingredients with many vegan, Paleo, gluten-free, and other options.

Late summer farm stands are bursting with healthy fresh produce. This link includes local farm stands near your Phoenix apartment along with hours of operation and other important details.

Reduce Stress

Reducing stress is an essential part of your overall physical well-being. Try meditation, add calming candles to your home, or play soothing music.

Maintaining a rigorous exercise regime, a balanced diet, and plenty of sleep will make staying healthy in Phoenix easy!

 

Back To School Tips for Studying From Your Phoenix Apartment

back to school tips at Phoenix ApartmentA new school year is upon us and it is likely that you or your child will be spending more time in your Phoenix apartment doing schoolwork or homework! Studying from home can be challenging! You may find yourself easily distracted by family, roommates, the refrigerator, the TV, and more! 

To make this difficult adjustment a bit more manageable, we have put together some back to school tips on how to make the most of studying at home this year.

Establish a Back to School Routine

Treat your study from home as if you are going to class. Set a time to wake up each day, eat breakfast, and get dressed! Having a daily routine can provide structure and signal your brain that it is time to get your schoolwork done!

Have a Dedicated Study Space

Creating a separation between your study area and your living area can be helpful for staying focused when studying or doing homework from your apartment! 

Take Notes for Online Classes

If some of your learning will be done online, it is important to take notes, put your phone away, turn off notifications from messages, and close websites that are not directly related to your schoolwork. Taking notes during your online courses also keeps your hands busy and helps turn your attention classwork.

Keep a Routine for Physical Activity

Don’t forget to set break times to get up and move around. You can stretch, walk around the room, go out on the patio, or do a little yoga.

Invest in Technology

Wireless headphones can make schooling or study from your apartment in Phoenix easier! They can also help you focus on your schoolwork and not disrupt others.

Here is a list of some great wireless headphone options available now.

Find a Quiet Place to Read

Finding a quiet place to read or focus can make doing homework fun! Ironhorse at Tramonto has a number of great places to read a book. Try finding a sunny spot by the pool or a quiet space in the clubhouse. Changing up the scenery when studying helps you stay focused.

These tips will help remote learning and studying to be more productive and less stressful. Don’t forget to get out and enjoy the amenities at your Iron Horse at Tramonto apartment when it is time to take a break from studying!