

LIFESTYLE





Lee
Dwayne.Heigh@TeamEsplanade.com
Megan Michaux Lifestyle Manager 980-300-4455
Megan.Michaux@TeamEsplanade.com
Letter From the Lifestyle Team
MEGAN MICHAUX YOUR LIFESTYLE MANAGER

The Holiday Season is Here!
As the last of autumn’s colors fade and the cool air settles in, we welcome the cozy and joyful season of November and December. These months are filled with moments of gratitude, togetherness, and celebration, perfect reminders of what makes our community so special.
November begins with a gentle reminder to “fall back” as we turn our clocks back and embrace shorter days filled with golden sunsets and crisp evenings. It is a time to gather around the table, share stories, and reflect on the blessings of the year. Whether you are celebrating Thanksgiving with family or enjoying a Friendsgiving with neighbors, these moments of gratitude strengthen the bonds that connect us.
As December arrives, the spirit of the holidays fills the air with twinkling lights, festive gatherings, and the joy of giving. It is the season of kindness, cheer, and creating memories that last well beyond the new year. Looking back, this has been such an amazing year filled with connection, laughter, and countless memorable moments shared with all of you.
Here’s to a November and December filled with gratitude, joy, and holiday magic.
Megan Michaux
YOUR LIFESTYLE MANAGER
Iam excited to reintroduce myself to our community. Since my last introduction, a lot of new faces have joined, and I can’t wait to connect with you all.
A little about me: I graduated in 2016 from Winston Salem State and I’m originally from a small town here in North Carolina. I share my home with two Yorkies, Jasper who is 10 and Lizzie who is 5, and they keep life lively and full of personality. Outside of work, I enjoy reading mystery books, shopping for sneakers, and staying active with Pilates, yoga, and gym workouts.
My favorite season is fall when I can roast marshmallows by the fire and take in the changing leaves. My favorite holiday is Christmas because I love the decorations, traditions, and festive spirit that comes with it.
Fun fact: I spent four years as a Starbucks barista during undergrad so if you ever need coffee talk or a recommendation, I’m your person.
I’m looking forward to reconnecting with familiar faces and meeting those I haven’t yet. Feel free to stop by and say hi anytime!


Beth Suerdieck
The Members of our community are truly what make this a wonderful place to live. In each edition, we will spotlight a Member, couple or family to showcase the amazing people that call our community home. If you would like to be featured or want to nominate another Member, please contact your Lifestyle Manager.

Iwas born and raised in Northern California, back when there were still fruit orchards there, haha. I’ve lived over 1/2 my life in North Carolina, and I call it home! I was married to a wonderful man named Jeff for 39 years before his passing. I lived a short time in Florida, but way too hot and humid - and FLAT with no seasons. So happy to be back “HOME.”
My work path has been from working in a hospital ER to owning my own business and trust me when I say everything in between. I enjoy sports, football especially, playing all types of cards, traveling, sewing and looking forward to getting back to doing stained glass once again. Tonja and I moved into our home at 515 Sunharvest Lane in May 2025, and we’re really enjoying this wonderful community. We hope to see you around soon!
Wonderful It’s a Lifestyle
Friday, December 12
6 - 9 p.m. | The Venue Register by November 28

Toast to the wonderful life at Esplanade. Come celebrate the season with friends and neighbors while enjoying a mixologist’s demonstration of the signature cocktail of the evening, Winter Wonderland, followed by hors d’oeuvres, music, and fun. Seasonal cocktail attire with a festive holiday touch is encouraged.

Furry Friends
Meet Tonka
LOVED BY BETH SUERDIECK
Tonka is a 3-year-old, 80 pound white bundle of fluff labradoodle. Yes, he is a big boy, but he is as gentle and friendly as he is big. Tonka was born in Palmetto, FL where he lived with Beth for a short time. He is glad she moved back to North Carolina and brought him with her. Tonka loves to play in the back yard and just lie in the grass. You might see them on walks in the morning or after dinner in the evenings. If you do, feel free to say, “Hi;” Tonka is very friendly.
WANT TO FEATURE YOUR PET?
Contact your Lifestyle Manager to be featured in the next edition of the Lifestyle Magazine. Answer a few questions about your furry, feathery, or scaly friend and share a couple pictures.
Around Town
SCROOGE! THE MUSICAL
December 12-21 | Various Times
Matthews Playhouse | www.matthewsplayhouse.com
The timeless musical adaptation of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol is back for the fourth year in a row, bringing its classic tale to the stage once more! This beloved story follows the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge, who, on one fateful Christmas Eve, is visited by three spirits. These ghostly encounters lead him on a journey through his past, present, and future, ultimately resulting in a profound transformation and experience of redemption.
THE PRINCE OF EGYPT
January 16 - February 1 | Various Times Matthews Playhouse | www.matthewsplayhouse.com
Journey through the wonders of Ancient Egypt as Ramses and Moses, two young men raised together as brothers in a kingdom of privilege, find themselves suddenly divided by a secret past. One must rule as Pharaoh, the other must rise up and free his true people; both face a destiny that will change history forever.
Is Your Yard Hummingbird-Friendly?

In the fall, Florida sees the southward migration of millions of hummingbirds, primarily Ruby-throated Hummingbirds, with some Rufous Hummingbirds also appearing and staying through the winter. Hummingbirds are an important part of our native ecosystem. Learn how you can provide hummingbirds with the habitat essentials they need to survive. For Hummingbird-Friendly Gardening, scan the QR code. To learn more about feeding Hummingbirds through natural sources provided by native plants and insects, visit www.nwf.org/ Native-Plant-Habitats/Resources/Tips-Tools-andVideos/Hummingbird-Feeders.

Exclusive Concierge Offerings
Let us handle the details while you enjoy the moments. To browse the full list of available Esplanade Concierge offerings, visit EsplanadePerks.com and use registration code esplanade2023 to access the Esplanade Member portal. Through the Esplanade Concierge program we are proud to offer you exclusive discounts and rates on everything from local restaurants and attractions, to movie tickets, car rentals, hotels and more! With thousands of local and national offers across the country, you’ll always find a reason to celebrate your savings.
VACATION IS CALLING
EXCLUSIVE HOTEL OFFERINGS
In addition to our existing hotel and travel perks, we are pleased to offer Members up to 15% off at select Marriott® Hotels by using code 44M when booking their next reservation at any of the following participating locations:
Art Ovation - Sarasota, FL; Courtyard Faro Blanco Resort - Florida Keys; Playa Largo Resort and Spa - Key Largo; French Leave Resort - Bahamas; The Daytona - Daytona Beach, FL; Courtyard - Downtown Fort Lauderdale, FL; Springhill Jax Beach Oceanfront - Jacksonville, FL; Courtyard Jax Beach OceanfrontJacksonville, FL; Residence Inn Tierra Verde - St. Petersburg, FL.
HOME SERVICES
HYDROSHIELD
ECO-FRIENDLY COATINGS
Hydroshield offers innovative surface protection that takes highmaintenance surfaces in home and transforms them from good to amazing. Their customers receive peace of mind that their surfaces will be easy-to-clean, stain resistant, and guaranteed to stay looking new. Call Noel and Carmen Torres to schedule an appointment for your free consultation. 704-909-9289
QUANTUM SECURITY AND INNOVATIONS
Esplanade Members can choose from three EXCLUSIVE packages: Sonos Home Theater Package, Sonos Package, or Alula Security Package. Members who purchase an exclusive package will also receive a 10% discount on any additional purchase. To view QSI’s state-of-theart systems, visit the Model Homes or stop by the Sales Gallery for a brochure detailing these packages. 704-534-2468
GOLF
TROON ACCESS
Esplanade Members can enjoy a 25% discount on a Troon Access Membership by entering code ESPLANADE25 at checkout! With savings and access to over 150 world-class courses, Troon Access is perfect for every Esplanade golf enthusiast, of any level! From Kapalua, to Gamble Sands and Troon North –your Troon Access benefits give you a network of premier courses to play. Save every time you play. troon.com/access
WINDOW COVERINGS
CAROLINA SHUTTERS & BLINDS
Esplanade Members can choose from exclusive package discounts. Contact Nicole Evans-Lane for a free design consultation. When contacting Nicole, Members are asked to supply the offer code: AFFINITY 303. 704-840-8000 nicole@csandb.us carolinashutterandblinds.com

DRY CLEANING
COLLINS CLEANERS VALET SERVICE
Members receive FREE pickup and delivery service directly to their door. Services include dry cleaning, linens, laundry, alterations, shoes, and household items. Stop by the Sales Gallery for the sign-up sheet with the schedule and pricing list or sign up on their website. 704-398-1525
collinscleaners.com
PET SERVICES
CAMP BOW WOW
10% off all services (including grooming) and 5% off all products. Members are given the Wag Bag when they go under contract. 704-708-9663
campbowwow.com/matthews
HOUNDS TOWN USA
10% off Weekday Daycare, 20% off Saturday Daycare, 50% off first bath. Valid at the Indian Trail location only. 704-218-2100 houndstownusa.com
Recent Events
Aloha Night SIGNATURE EVENT
Aloha Night was a wonderful way to bring our Members together for an evening filled with energy and connection. The tropical theme created a festive atmosphere, complete with delicious food, music, and plenty of laughter. It was a true highlight of the season and set the stage for many more memorable gatherings.






Paint & Sip FALL SCENE
Our recent Paint & Sip was a wonderful evening filled with creativity and laughter. Members gathered to paint a beautiful fall scene. The room was full of great conversation, artistic expression, and a relaxed atmosphere. Everyone had a fantastic time, and it was so nice to see the unique styles and personal touches each member brought to their painting. A special thank you goes to Member Susan Tritinger for her time and efforts in hosting and making this event happen—it would not have been possible without her.



Wine Around the World ARGENTINA
Our Wine Around the World event featuring Argentina was a fantastic evening of learning, tasting, and connecting. Members enjoyed sampling a variety of bold and flavorful Argentinian wines while discovering more about the country’s rich winemaking traditions. The conversation flowed easily, and the event created a warm and welcoming atmosphere that everyone truly enjoyed.


Recent Events
Hiking at CROWDERS MOUNTAIN
The hiking trip gave Members the chance to enjoy the outdoors together. With scenic views, fresh air, and the beauty of nature all around, the group shared a memorable experience. The hike was filled with camaraderie, and Members appreciated both the exercise and the opportunity to spend time with one another.




Making Soaps and Lotions WITH CRAFT NORTHGATE
Creativity was in full swing during our soap and lotion making workshop. Members enjoyed trying something new, learning the process, and creating their own custom products. It was a fun and hands-on event, and everyone left with unique items to enjoy.



Yappy Hour PUP CUPS
Yappy Hour was a joyful gathering that put our four-legged friends at the center of the fun. Members brought their pets to enjoy special pup cups while neighbors mingled and connected. It was a lighthearted event that brought plenty of smiles and highlighted the wonderful sense of community we share.

Yoga with KRIS BLISS
Yoga with Kris Bliss provided Members with the chance to slow down and focus on their wellbeing. The class encouraged relaxation, balance, and mindfulness, leaving everyone feeling refreshed. It was a peaceful experience that allowed Members to connect both with themselves and with each other in a calm setting.


Upcoming Events
All activities and events are subject to change. For full details, please visit EsplanadeNorthgateLifestyle.com/events.

GRAB AND GO PUP CUPS
Thursdays, November 6 & December 4 | 2 p.m.
Bark Park
Join us for a fun and furry-friendly Grab and Go Pup Cup event at the venue! Bring your pups along to enjoy tasty, dog-friendly treats in adorable pup cups. It’s the perfect chance to spoil your furry friends while connecting with other dog lovers. Grab a treat, say hello to new pals, and make your pup’s day a little sweeter! We can’t wait to see all the wagging tails!
GLASS MOSAICS WORKSHOP
Friday, November 7 | 6 p.m.
The Venue
Get into the holiday spirit with this festive glass ornaments class!
In this beginner-friendly workshop, you’ll create three one-of-akind fused glass ornaments—perfect for decorating your tree or giving as handmade gifts. For just $45, all materials are included, and local glass artist Jane will guide you through every step, from designing and arranging your pieces to preparing them for the kiln. No experience necessary!
WINE AROUND THE WORLD: RED WINES
Saturday, November 8 | 6:30 p.m.
The Venue
Take your palate on a journey as we explore a variety of red wines from around the world. This evening is a chance to taste, compare, and enjoy wines from different regions while spending time with fellow Members. A perfect way to savor the season with good company and great conversation.
CRAFT NORTHGATE: PIPE CLEANER SNOWFLAKES & ORIGAMI ORNAMENTS
Thursday, November 13 | 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.
The Venue
Get crafty with us as we create festive decorations you’ll be proud to display! First, twist and shape sparkly pipe cleaner snowflakes—fun for all ages and perfect for adding winter cheer to any space. Then, fold your way into the season with elegant origami ornaments, using beautiful, patterned papers and guided instruction. Come for the fun, leave with handmade holiday magic!
CRAFT NORTHGATE: PAINT & SIP WINTER SCENE
Friday, November 14 | 6:30 p.m.
The Venue
Unwind with a brush in one hand and a warm drink in the other! You’ll be guided step-by-step through creating a serene winter scene on canvas—no painting experience needed. Enjoy good company, cozy vibes. $10 per Member (includes all supplies and refreshments).
FRIENDSGIVING
Saturday, November 15 | 6:30 p.m.
The Venue
Celebrate the season with friends and neighbors at our annual Friendsgiving. We’ll provide two delicious turkeys from Honey Baked Ham, and invite Members to coordinate to bring their favorite side dishes. It will be a wonderful evening of food, laughter, and friendship.
WICKED PART 2 MOVIE MATINEE
Tuesday, November 25 | Morning Showing, Time TBA
Meet at The Theater
Join fellow Members for a magical outing at the theater to see Wicked Part 2. Enjoy this much-anticipated continuation of the story on the big screen while sharing the experience with friends and neighbors. Popcorn and plenty of community cheer provided!

Upcoming Events
All activities and events are subject to change. For full details, please visit EsplanadeNorthgateLifestyle.com/events.
PRE-CHRISTMAS BRUNCH
Friday, December 5 | 11 a.m.
Famous Toastery
Celebrate the holiday season with a cheerful Christmas brunch. Enjoy a delicious meal together while sharing in the joy of the season. This is the perfect way to gather with neighbors and toast to the holidays.
WINE AROUND THE WORLD: PROSECCO
Friday, December 5 | 6:30 p.m.
The Venue
Join us as we continue our Wine Around the World series with a sparkling twist. December will feature prosecco wines, offering a light and festive way to toast the season. Come enjoy the bubbles, the company of friends, and a relaxed evening together.
IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFESTYLE
Friday, December 12 | 6 - 9 p.m.
The Venue
Toast to the wonderful life at Esplanade! Come celebrate the season with friends and neighbors while enjoying a mixologist’s demonstration of the signature cocktail of the evening, The Grinch, followed by hors d’oeuvres, music, and plenty of fun. Seasonal cocktail attire with a festive holiday touch is encouraged to make the evening extra special. The mixologist demonstration will begin at 7 p.m. Tickets are limited to two per household.
Monthly Member Meetings

COFFEE & CONVERSATION
Wednesdays, November 5 & December 10
10:15 a.m. | Gathering Room
Join your Lifestyle Manager for a relaxing and informative meeting. Find out what’s happening on the social scene. Bring your questions and suggestions.

CRAFT NORTHGATE: HOLIDAY LUMINARIES
Saturday, December 20 | 1:30 p.m.
The Venue
Add a warm glow to your holidays with DIY holiday luminaries! Using festive materials, you’ll create candle-lit decorations that shine with seasonal charm. These cozy crafts are great for gifting or displaying at home—no crafting experience needed, just bring your imagination!

ESPLANADE 101
Wed, November 12 & December 10 10:30 a.m. | Gathering Room
New Members can meet with the CAM and Lifestyle Manager to briefly discuss HOA and Lifestyle topics outlined in your Member Handbook. Come with your questions!

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS
Wed, November 19 & December 17 10:30 a.m. | Gathering Room
Meet with your Community Association Manager in a relaxed and social setting to discuss the latest news surrounding the neighborhood.
Interest Groups & Social Clubs
Doing more of what makes us happy is called the key to life by many. Share your passion and take the first step by attending or creating a club/group today.
Meet fellow Members with similar interests by creating or joining an interest group or club! Your Lifestyle Manager will assist in coordinating when and where is available for your club or interest group to meet at the Sales Gallery. All groups and clubs must be open to any Member of the community who is interested in joining. To receive an application or for more information about creating a club or interest group, please contact your Lifestyle Manager. Check out the current clubs below!
Current Clubs & Groups
BOOK CLUB
Tuesdays, November 18 & December 16 (Third Tuesday) | 2 p.m.
Gathering Room
Join the Book Club to discuss each month’s assigned book. Group leader Teresa Cole will be leading the discussion on this book. Books are available on Kindle, books.com (used and new), Barnes and Noble, Amazon, or anywhere books are sold. To learn more about the Book Club or to join, please contact Teresa at cole3761@bellsouth.net.
BUNCO CLUB
November 13 & December 11 (Second Thursday) | 6:30 p.m.
Gathering Room
Gather with your neighbors for a lively evening of Bunco! Join our friendly group where everyone brings their favorite snacks and drinks to share. Just remember, for safety, no glass is allowed. Roll the dice, enjoy good company, and create memories with your community. Contact Judy with questions at 412-952-1125.
KNIGHTS OF NORTHGATE BREAKFAST
Tuesdays, November 11 & December 9 | 9 a.m.
The Americana Restaurant
Calling all Esplanade at Northgate men! Join your neighbors at The Americana Restaurant for some great food and great conversation. See event on Member website for Club Leader details to register.
MAHJONG
Every Monday | 6:30 p.m.
Gathering Room
Mahjong is all the rave! As you learn the game and think about how you play and the choices you make, it’s important to remember a couple of points. In the long term, it’s a game of skill. In the short term, luck is a significant factor. With that in mind, this introduction is intended to get you started off and winning games in no time. Contact Rosalind Rokita at roz.rokita@frontier.com for more information.

LADIES OF NORTHGATE
Ugly Christmas Sweater & White Elephant Party
Thursday, December 18 | 6 - 8 p.m. The Venue
Get ready for an evening of holiday fun and laughter. Ladies of Northgate will gather for a festive Ugly Christmas Sweater Party combined with a White Elephant gift exchange. Bring your best holiday spirit, a wrapped gift to share, and get ready for plenty of laughs with friends.
LADIES BUNCO CLUB
Tuesday, November 25 | 2 p.m. Gathering Room
Gather the ladies for a fun-filled afternoon of Bunco! Enjoy laughter, friendly competition, and great company as we roll the dice and unwind. It’s a perfect opportunity to relax, socialize, and have a blast with friends! Join our friendly group where everyone brings their favorite snacks and drinks to share. Please text the group leader, Judy, if you have any questions at 412-952-1125.
VETERANS GROUP COFFEE HOUSE SOCIAL
Thursdays, November 20 & December 18 | 9 - 11 a.m.
Waxhaw Baptist Church | 8213 Old Waxhaw Monroe Road
Veterans are invited to join Group Leader David Hiza for an opportunity to make new friends, participate in raffle prize drawings, access resources, and enjoy the company of fellow veteran Members. Contact David at 704-562-6946 to register and arrange carpooling.
DIY Peppermint Lip Balm

As the temperatures drop, our lips often bear the brunt of the cold, becoming dry and chapped. This holiday season, treat yourself and your loved ones to a soothing, homemade peppermint lip balm. Not only is it a thoughtful gift, but it’s also a delightful way to pamper your skin naturally.
INGREDIENTS
» 2 tablespoons beeswax pellets
» 2 tablespoons organic coconut oil
» 2 tablespoons organic shea butter
» 10–15 drops peppermint essential oil (adjust to your scent preference)
INSTRUCTIONS
1. In a double boiler over medium heat, melt together the beeswax pellets and coconut oil, stirring until smooth. Add the shea butter and continue to stir until fully melted and combined.
2. Remove from heat but keep the mixture over the warm water to maintain its liquid state.
3. Add the peppermint essential oil and stir well.
4. Carefully pour the mixture into lip balm tubes or small tins.
5. Allow to cool and solidify for a few hours before sealing.
6. For a personal touch, consider adding custom labels or decorative packaging.
This simple recipe yields approximately 12 lip balms, making it perfect for holiday gifts or personal use. The peppermint oil provides a refreshing scent and a slight tingle, while the beeswax and shea butter offer nourishment and protection for your lips.
Resource: lovetobeinthekitchen.com
Keep Moving Through the Holidays

The holiday season is full of joy, but it can also be easy to let physical activity slip from your routine. The good news is that you don’t need a formal workout to stay active. Everyday holiday tasks like decorating the tree, wrapping gifts, or tidying up before guests all count as movement. Even short bursts of activity, such as ten minutes of light stretching or walking around the house, can boost your energy and improve your mood.
Try turning holiday chores into mini exercise opportunities. While wrapping presents, pause to stretch your neck, shoulders, and back.
Take a brisk walk around the neighborhood to enjoy the festive lights. These small, intentional moments of movement add up, keeping your body feeling strong and energized throughout the season.
Remember, staying active does not have to be a chore. By incorporating movement into your holiday traditions, you can enhance both your physical health and your sense of well-being, making the season more enjoyable and vibrant.
Friendsgiving
GATHERING

Saturday, November 15
6:30 P.M. | THE VENUE
Celebrate the season with friends and neighbors. The Lifestyle team will provide two delicious turkeys from Honey Baked Ham, and we invite Members to coordinate to bring their favorite side dishes. It will be a wonderful evening of sharing food, laughter and friendship.

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup with Sage & Brown Butter
Prep Time: 20 min | Cook Time: 60 min | Serving Size: 6
This warm, seasonal soup is perfect for November and December gatherings. Its smooth, creamy texture and subtle nutty flavor from brown butter make it a cozy, elegant starter. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly and easy to make ahead for lunch or dinner.
INGREDIENTS
» 1 large butternut squash (about 2–3 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes
» 2 tablespoons olive oil
» Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
» 1 medium onion, chopped
» 2 cloves garlic, minced
» 4 cups vegetable broth
» 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
» 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for warmth)
» 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
» 8–10 fresh sage leaves
» 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
DIRECTIONS
1. Roast the Squash:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the butternut squash cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelized.
2. Cook Aromatics:
In a large pot, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
3. Combine and Simmer: Add the roasted squash, vegetable broth, nutmeg, and cinnamon to the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10–15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Blend:
Using an immersion blender (or carefully in batches with a regular blender), puree the soup until smooth and creamy. Return to the pot and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
5. Brown the Butter and Sage:
In a small skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until it turns golden brown and fragrant. Add the sage leaves and sauté for 1–2 minutes until crispy.
6. Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls and drizzle with brown butter and sage leaves. Add a splash of cream if desired. Serve warm with crusty bread for a cozy, festive touch.