A to Z – Kelli & Kristi of Lolly Jane
In 10 years of interviewing people for Misadventures with Andi, it's the first time I've had twins! Kelli and Kristi of Lolly Jane are 100% industrious and 100% adorable! As soon as I found their blog I was in love. They have been creating things since they were little girls and if there is something to be done around the house from fixing to making it functional or pretty, they've got the tips and tricks for you! Unlike a lot of the Arizona bloggers I've interviewed who as transplants like me, Kelli and Kristi are born and raised here Arizonians have great recommendations!
Let’s meet Kelli & Kristi!
[1] Favorite thing about Phoenix.
The weather! We are NOT fans of snow or extreme cold (or natural disasters like tornados, hurricanes, earthquakes, etc.,) so bring on the heat!
[2] Least favorite thing about Phoenix.
We were born and raised here, so the growth is still new to us and we have a love/hate relationship with crowds/traffic coming to our once small farming town but it's also awesome not to have to drive miles and miles for great shopping/stores!
[3] What differentiates your area of the Valley of the Sun from all the other parts?
Gilbert has all the conveniences of surrounding cities (shopping, fun nightlife, great schools, etc.,) but parts of it (especially where we live) has that small town feel that makes others feel welcome.
[4] Favorite coffee spot in Phoenix.
We don't drink coffee but are big fans of caffeine so the local soda shops are our favorite! Swig, Sodalicious, and Soda Rush are close by and we highly recommend a Dirty Diet Coke with a sugar cookie!
[5] Favorite local hangout in Phoenix.
We could spend all day at Merchant Square in Chandler. They have rows and rows of treasures to browse/shop and the best sandwich shop to grab a bite to eat. Be sure to try one of their many vintage sodas and the oversized brownie is a must!
[6] Favorite breakfast spot in Phoenix.
Hands down, Snooze in downtown Gilbert is the best! From pancakes to omelets, they have it all and everything is excellent.
[7] Favorite lunch spot in Phoenix.
Backyard Taco is a small family owned biz with a commercial feel, try the crazy potato– you'll thank us!
[8] Favorite dinner spot in Phoenix.
New Mexican Grill, our favorite hole-in-the-wall southwest Mex food. Tastes like our Mexican grandmothers cooking!
[9] One thing you always do/spot you always take friends from out of town to do/see.
If we have time, a trip up north to Payson to eat at El Rancho (driving through Saguaro Lake) is a must-see; but if it's around town then a trip to Main Street to shop the antique stores and to eat at Mango's and finish it off at Sweet Cakes bakery.
[10] How do you like to beat the heat?
We have a season pass at Big Surf but having a backyard or community pool is a must! We bought a $10 old billboard that's used as a Slip ‘n Slide and all ages love it with some soapy water for hot summer nights!
Thanks, Kelli & Kristi!
You can keep up with Kelli & Kristi on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, and of course on their blog. Wherever you catch her, I am sure you will enjoy their Arizona adventures!
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A cousin of mine just moved to Phoenix. Now I have more reasons to visit!
I’ve heard of Soda Rush but never visited. Wish they had one closer so we could try it out!
I’ve never been to Arizona, well only to travel through it. Haven’t had the time to make stops or visit, but will have to add these places to the list of stops the next time we go through there !
Lots of great suggestions and ideas of places to eat the next time I visit the area. I prefer cold weather over heat but love Phoenix in the winter.
I’ve never been to Arizona but having a list of favorite places from locals is always great. They definitely know the best places to go and they are never the “tourist” traps. Plus all of those soda shops sounds awesome!
This is great! If I ever come to Arizona… I will have to remember this list. Thanks! 🙂
This is great info for future visits! I went for the first time in February and looking forward to checking some of these spots out next time!
I went to school near Tucson and loved the weather there. It is just beautiful! I love the heat too. The Dirty Diet Coke sounds interesting!
It’s nice to know more bloggers! I’m hopping over to their blog right now.
I like being able to learn more about these bloggers. It’s a great way to network with other talented moms and writers.