Life at Acero Val Vista

5 Foolproof Spring Cleaning Tips, Tricks, and Spots You Should Not Miss

The year is zooming by and the first day of Spring (March 20th) is quickly approaching, which means the annual - and possibly the dreaded - Spring cleaning is upon us again. There are those who look forward to this time of year, framing it as a glorious season to purge every old and unused item. Then, there is the crowd who participates, but not very seriously. Finally, there are the folks who would rather do anything else - because who has the time or energy. Yet, this yearly occasion does not need to be an awful or time consuming experience. In fact, it can be just the thing you need! With multiple benefits ranging from a day or so of physical activity, mood and focus improvements, as well as helping to protect your immune system! So, to keep up your luxury Acero Val Vista apartment, here are 5 foolproof Spring cleaning tips, tricks, and uncommon places you might miss! Tip 1: Schedule it Out! Creating a schedule can help take away the stress and anxiety of the undertaking of deep cleaning your whole space in one weekend - let alone one day if you’re short on time! Try splitting up your rooms by days or weekends and creating a task list of all the uncommon areas to clean. Do you have a regular cleaning routine? If so, what are the areas that are generally ignored? Start with those and give yourself the gift of a scheduled plan so that nothing gets missed! Tip 2: The Perfect Cleaning Kit Having the correct supplies can make the entire Spring cleaning event easy and less stressful. Everyone’s kit may be a little different, depending on the needs of their space, but having one ready to go before starting will keep you on track. Don’t know where to even begin? A basic starting kit can be: an all-purpose cleaner , a sponge (specifically for household cleaning - don’t grab the dish sponge!), disinfectant wipes , a glass cleaner (for windows and showers), a small duster, and extra cloths. Once you’ve gathered everything, put them in a bucket or basket to keep yourself organized and so it’s easy to keep everything with you as you go about the day! Tip 3: From the Windows to the Walls Be honest, when was the last time you wiped down your walls? You may remember to clean the floors and carpets, but your walls can use some love too. Dust does not only settle on the floor and can start to build up over time without you even noticing its impact. Try taking one of your extra cloths to wipe down your walls and windows (going from top to bottom). And, when your attention is on the windows, don’t forget to wash the entire window seal, while both opened and closed. This way, when you open it later for that fresh Spring breeze, you won’t be bombarded with dust and grime from last season! Tip 4: Get a Handle on It Your hands can come in contact with quite a bit throughout the day, which we have learned can spread around all kinds of little germs. While you might know to wash your hands regularly, taking the time to grab a few of those disinfectant wipes and going to wipe-town is a great practice to put in place. Be sure to wipe down every single door handle (outside & in), sink handles, TV and electronic remotes, light switches, thermometers, cupboard door handles, and every other household item you may find yourself grabbing regularly. Tip 5: Freshen' Up! So you’ve made your schedule, de-cluttered, disinfected, vacuumed, swept, and wiped-down single nook and cranny - now it’s time to relax and enjoy your sparkling clean space! Reward yourself and your home by bringing in some greenery with a new plant or two for a fresh breath of life or switch out those throw-pillow covers for some new vibes for the upcoming season. Either way, once you have completed your Spring cleaning, be sure to do what you need to for that finishing touch. The yearly Spring clean can be a daunting task, especially if it has been a while. But with these few tips, you’re sure to make it a successful venture! Are you ready for Spring cleaning? Have any additional helpful tips? Leave a comment below to let us know and we’ll see you back here next month for another blog post!

Fun Date Night Ideas in Gilbert, AZ

Now that the holidays have come and gone, January is upon us and Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching. If you’re looking for a fun date night idea for you and your spouse, we’ve got some suggestions that should help you find the perfect way to celebrate love this season. Mystery Mansion Dinner Theater Nothing says date night fun like a mystery dinner theater! Mystery Mansion in Scottsdale AZ has been making people laugh since 1989 with their live interactive theater. Here, you’ll join the interesting cast of characters to try to solve a murder while enjoying a delicious three-course meal. With three different shows – Murder at Greystone Manor, Murder at the Vampire’s Wedding and Murder at Bedside Manor – there is always something fun to be part of at Mystery Mansion Dinner Theater. Imagine 3D Mini Golf If it’s fun you’re looking for, look no further than a round of mini golf! And not just mini golf, but 3D mini golf! With locations in both Gilbert and Scottsdale, Imagine is a small, family-owned business that’s committed to offering you and your loved ones a safe place to enjoy 18 holes of glowing indoor 3D mini golf fun. Check out their website here for hours and prices. The Art House Gilbert For a more laid-back night of fun, try The Art House Gilbert. You can order a drink at the bar, then sit down to participate in a creative paint class, cookie decorating training or charcuterie workshop. Thinking about a double date with some friends? The Art House also offers private paint parties! Visit their website here for more information on booking your painting adventure. Board & Brush If you’re into crafts and DIY projects, Board & Brush is the perfect date night spot. Gilbert’s DIY wood sign workshop, Board & Brush is a studio located in the East Valley that gives you space to create without having to purchase your own supplies and clean up the mess! Visit their website here to book a workshop and learn more about the events they offer. Level 1 Arcade Bar For a more high-paced, energetic environment, Level 1 Arcade Bar has all the makings for a fun evening out. Featuring a wide selection of arcade games and pinball machines, a tasty variety of cocktails drinks, delicious food and tunes that will keep you grooving all night long, Level 1 has over 100 rotating games for you to choose from. Check out their website for information. Did you find a fun idea on this list you want to try? Let us know which date night adventure you choose and how you liked it!

Best New Year’s Activities in Gilbert, AZ

Happy almost-new-year! After a year like 2021, chances are you’re more than ready to ring in a fresh start with 2022. Luckily, there are plenty of fun options for spending New Year’s Eve in Gilbert, AZ. We’ve rounded up a list of our favorites– happy celebrating! Baby Goat Yoga What better way to welcome 2022 than with goat yoga?! Yes, you read that right. From 10:00 - 11:00 AM on December 31st, Arizona Goat Yoga is offering a baby goat and alpaca yoga class, complete with goats in Christmas sweaters and Nigerian Pygmy Goats, the smallest goats in the world. The class is suitable for all ages and can be attended for a fee of $15. Purchase tickets here . Peacock Wine Bar For a New Year’s Eve party that offers all the fun of NYC without the chaos, Peacock Wine Bar is the place to be. Complete with drink and food specials, karaoke and a special complimentary champagne toast at midnight, this party will be rocking from 5PM to 1AM. Countdown Skate Party How fun does it sound to literally skate into the new year?! That’s exactly what AZ Ice Gilbert is offering on New Year’s Eve. Featuring a live DJ with lights, noise makers and a photo op, this event will have you welcoming 2022 on the ice with loads of fun. Karaoke Night If a musical serenade to 2022 is more your style, Skip and Jan’s Sports Bar is the way to go. Ring in the new year with all your favorite songs and a bunch of new friends at karaoke night! The White Rabbit Champagne Gala For a more sophisticated NYE celebration, The White Rabbit is hosting a champagne gala sure to impress. Starting at 9PM and partying all the way to 2AM, this is a limited-ticket dress-code-chic event offering cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, party favors and a special champagne toast at midnight. For ticketing information, visit the event’s page here . How are you planning to ring in the new year? Let us know if you plan on attending one of these fun events, or if you’re planning your own celebration. Happy 2022, Val Vista community!

5 Great Trails to Hike in Gilbert

Fall is in full swing in Gilbert, and that means the weather is perfect for taking a hike! When you’re ready to dive into your next outdoor adventure, we’re here to help with a list of some of the best hiking near Gilbert AZ and the surrounding areas. Grab your pack and let’s go! Camelback Mountain Counted as one of the nation’s top hiking destinations that attracts visitors from all over the globe, Camelback Mountain is named for the shadow it casts on the valley skyline. The two main trails at this destination are marked “extremely difficult,” meaning they should only be taken on by experienced hikers who are prepared for the steep elevation, uneven terrain and a path subject to the elements. This is a great trail, but take all necessary safety precautions to ensure a successful trip! Boulder Canyon Trail - Superstition Mountain Another tricky climb recommended for only experienced hikers, Boulder Canyon Trail lies near Tortilla Flat, Arizona. At 8.7 miles, this is a dog-friendly trail that is open all year and features a lake, making it a great spot for a nature walk. Wind Cave Trail 281 A bit easier of a trek but still falling in the category of “moderate to difficult,” Wind Cave Trail 281 offers hikers a panoramic view of southwest Arizona on their uphill journey. Rocky and steep, this trail is a strenuous climb, but one well worth the work. As a bonus, if you hike Wind Cave during the spring, there are plenty of colorful wildflowers to be seen on the hillside! Hole in the Rock Trail A trail able to be enjoyed by all skill levels, Hole in the Rock is a 0.3 mile trail that’s perfect for kids, beginning hikers or anyone looking for a nice scenic view on their evening walk. Accessible year-round, Hole in the Rock is also dog-friendly, as long as they are kept on leash. Piestewa Peak Summit Trail Rated as “difficult,” Piestewa Peak Summit Trail is a 2.1 out-and-back path near Pheonix. Featuring an array of wildflowers along the way, the trail is best hiked during the span of October through March. As you can see, there are an abundance of hiking trails near GIlbert AZ to explore. Have you hiked one of these trails before? Let us know about your experience! If not, which trail sounds the most intriguing for your next outdoor adventure? Whichever path you choose, have fun and be safe-- and of course, meet us back here next month for a new blog!

Your Guide to the Best Mexican Restaurants in Gilbert

One of the best parts of moving to a new city is all the new food places to explore. Whether it’s date night, a night out with friends or just another taco Tuesday, we’re here to help you out with a list of the best Mexican restaurants in Gilbert, AZ. Yuliana’s Mexican Food Looking for the best breakfast burrito in Gilbert? Yuliana’s has you covered. With a variety of breakfast options alongside their regular menu of burritos, tortas, tacos and more, Yuliana’s has something for everyone to enjoy. Pair your favorite entree with a side of rice, beans, french fries or even a quesadilla for a perfect meal-- no matter the time of day. Joyride Taco House If you’re searching for the perfect mix of fresh food, fun vibes and delicious drinks, Joyride Taco House is the place to be. The kind of restaurant you’d want for a fun night out with friends, Joyride has everything from tacos and burritos to salads and churros alongside an exciting drink menu. Check out their online menu here . Barrio Queen “Made with authenticity” is the tagline of Barrio Queen, a unique dining experience in various locations around Arizona. With regional authentic Mexican dishes, iconic family recipes and delicious hand-crafted margaritas, Barrio Queen has a menu full of options sure to make dinner a delightful treat. La Ristra New Mexican Kitchen Family-owned and operated, La Ristra is a New Mexican kitchen that pairs traditional cuisine with modern style. La Ristra’s recipes have been passed down through generations and prove delicious every time. With a variety of flavorful spicy and non-spicy options on the menu , La Ristra caters to everyone’s tastes. Nando’s Mexican Cafe Started by two friends back in 2003, Nando’s Mexican Cafe offers traditional family recipes passed down to Nando from his mom and step-dad. A “local family joint,” Nando’s places a high value on people and quality. Locally owned and operated, the restaurant not only offers a variety of delicious meals but also has become a hub for community support through volunteering and fundraising opportunities. Gecko Grill Gecko Grill is award-winning Mexican food in the heart of Gilbert. Fresh ingredients and classic recipes combine for a tasty meal in a family-friendly atmosphere. Enjoy full menu service at their new patio bar or stake out a table indoors for a fun dinner with friends. From a variety of traditional favorites as well as house specialty items, Gecko Grill has something everyone will enjoy. Filiberto’s Since 1993, Filiberto’s has been a celebration of Mexico’s vibrant history and culture. With everything made from scratch daily with fresh meat and ingredients, Filiberto’s has a menu of tasty tacos, burritos, carne asada fries and more, sure to offer an enjoyable quality meal. Which of these Mexican restaurants will you visit next? What’s your go-to meal or drink? Let us know in the comments and meet us back here next month for another blog on life in Gilbert.

Virtual History Tour: A Guide to Gilbert’s History

Now that you call Gilbert home, it’s time to learn some history about the city! Whether you’re wanting to take a day out at the museum or just browse the internet for a virtual lesson, we’re here to help you find all the information you need to get your fill of Gilbert, AZ, history. HD South Gilbert Museum Your first stop on a tour of Gilbert, AZ, history is the HD South Gilbert Museum . As the only historical museum in Gilbert, HD South offers a “comprehensive collection” of quality archives over the years. Also functioning as Gilbert’s center for arts and culture, HD South’s event schedule offers a wide variety of art, health & wellness, history, literature, music and science programs. Opened in 1982, the Gilbert Historical Museum has all the information you need to get well-acquainted with your new city. Weather History If it’s Gilbert, AZ, weather history you want, this website has all the stats and graphs you could ever desire. You want to know what the weather was like on this day ten years ago? No problem. Trying to figure out the average temperatures of a Gilbert summer? Weather Spark can give you the answers you need to pack for that vacation accordingly. Whatever Gilbert-related weather questions you have, the information is only a click away. Virtual History For those wanting to stay at home for your history tour of Gilbert, we have some great virtual resources. First and foremost, the Gilbert, AZ, website has all the historical facts and news you’ll need to be in-the-know about your new home. From demographics to past mayors and fun tidbits about the town, this site has it all. Want even more Gilbert knowledge? This AZ Central article gives backstory to the man the town was named after. We hope these resources help you learn everything you want to know about Gilbert, AZ, history to make you feel at home in your new city. What’s the most interesting thing you learned about Gilbert, AZ? Let us know in the comments!