July 2024 | Issue No. 50

Hello & welcome to my July newsletter! Thanks for tuning in again this month. Well, we are officially in the midst of the hot desert summer season & I'm sure you're looking for ways to cool off,  like I am. One of the very best ways to beat the heat & treat yourself is to enjoy a sweet, cold indulgence. Luckily, we have a little something for everyone around Albuquerque. Whether you are craving homemade ice cream, artisan gelato, a nostalgic sundae or a refreshing paleta, there's a spot just for you. Here are some of my favorite places to visit on these hot summer days. Which is your favorite? Gelato is normally my go-to …must be my Italian heritage showing up.

summer   summer   summer

My go-to spot in the summer is Frost Gelato in Uptown Albuquerque. My Italian roots give this gelato place a competitive edge for sure. Did you know that the difference between gelato & ice cream is the amount of butterfat & air that is incorporated into the final  product? Gelato flavors are intensified due to the lower percentages of butterfat & air compared to ice cream. You'll find fresh, made daily gelato & sorbet at Frost locations. They use machinery from Italy & import many of the ingredients as well. This all contributes to their authentic gelateria atmosphere. They offer fresh flavors of the month each month & you'll find all sorts of imaginative options . For July, their flavor offerings include toasted marshmallow, cinnamon apple pie, peppermint & blueberry sorbet.

When you think of Heidi's, the first thing that comes to mind might be their delicious jams that are a beloved staple around New Mexico. But have you tried their made in-house ice cream or sorbet?  Crafted from the freshest ingredients, with truly imaginative & inspired flavors, they adhere to the same high standards for all of their offerings. You can find the classic flavors, but how could you pass up trying their creme fraiche wild blueberry swirl or a baklava sundae?!

If you can't decide, they also offer ice cream flights. They just added extended summer hours for the ice cream shop, perfect for a late afternoon or evening treat after a long, day in the sun. When you stop in, make sure to congratulate them on  being recognized as a 2024 Local Hero by Edible New Mexico!

I Scream Ice Cream is a long standing favorite ice cream shop & curiosities gallery where you can satisfy your sweet tooth & enjoy fun for all ages. They have a play area, tons of games & often host events, parties & field trips. They serve over 35 ice cream flavors from different brands representing 10 states. You can let your imagination run wild with options including sundaes, shakes, banana splits & more. While the main attraction is definitely the ice cream, they aim to offer an experience that leaves a lasting impression & keeps customers coming back for more. The curiosities gallery began as the original owner's private collection & continues to grow as patrons add to the nostalgia. It's like a trip to a museum & ice cream parlor all rolled into one experience. Perfect for a date night or family outing at the end of a  hot summer  day.

yum! yum!

Neko Neko in Sawmill Market opened in 2020 with a distinct approach to their offerings. They serve Taiyaki, a Japanese fish-shaped cake, filled with soft serve ice cream. You can choose a filling, red bean or nutella, along with lots of topping options. like toasted coconut, fruity pebbles or roasted black sesame to name just a few. This family owned business is a favorite for locals & visitors & offers a delightful & photo-worthy experience that you won't find everywhere. If you're feeling adventurous, this might be the spot for you. Plus you have all the other options that a visit to Sawmill Market offers up, including a relaxing environment to sit & enjoy your treat. 

With 7 locations in Albuquerque & 9 other locations around New Mexico, The Paleta Bar offers fresh flavor options & combinations that are sure to satisfy any craving. Paletas are Mexican frozen treats made from fresh natural ingredients, unlike mass-produced popsicles made from sugar & artificial flavors. Many paletas have a fruit base, but you can also find creamy bases too. Then you get to choose your dips, toppings & additions so no matter what you're in the mood for, paletas are the perfect vehicle. The possibilities are endless with 20 paleta flavors, including mango, horchata & strawberry paired with 4 dipping choices, tons of toppings & the option of also adding fruit. This fresh treat is  always a hit & the perfect outing since everyone can make it their very own experience. 

Opened earlier this year in Scottsdale Village, Mrs. Sprinkles Ice Cream parlor got its start as a NE Heights ice cream truck. The shop owner had a vision for a permanent place to welcome the community with the goal of making visitors smile. The vibrant decor is the perfect backdrop for nostalgic sundaes & their popular doughnut ice cream sandwich, made with locally sourced doughnuts from neighboring Sergio's (Bakery & Cafe).  They serve Blue Bell ice cream & have recently added homemade vegan ice cream from a small Colorado Springs creamery, with plans to continue adding variation & eventually make ice cream in-house as well. They have outdoor space equipped with yard games that perfectly accompany a trip to this ice cream parlor with the goal of feel-good fun. Keep reading for a very special offer!

Our friends at Mrs. Sprinkles want to help you achieve your ice cream goals this summer! Give them a visit, mention this newsletter offer & receive 10% off. Offer valid through August 31, 2024. What a a sweet deal indeed….

If you are in the mood to stay home & make your own sweet treat to help you cool down, here's my favorite homemade ice cream recipe. I love making this in the summer & letting my imagination run wild with the flavor combinations. This is a simple, delicious recipe that you can customize to fit your specific cravings. Enjoy!

The real estate market in Albuquerque continues to add to its inventory of available homes this summer, experiencing a slight dip in new listings in June. Overall, the real estate landscape has improved from last summer, with hopes that although remaining competitive, it will continue to even out over time. There are some amazing properties hitting the market in July, so if you are searching for your dream home you are in luck. I'd love to help you navigate the current market & achieve your 2024 real estate goals. Give me a call today if you are thinking of buying or selling soon!

Thanks for joining me again here this month. I hope you find some great options to treat yourself & cool down to counterbalance our intense summer heat. This list is representative of the many offerings & personalities you will find around Albuquerque. It's always a great reminder of how many small businesses & entrepreneurs we have to choose from to support. I love that no matter what mood I find myself in, there's a spot that will instantly offer a connection & satisfy what I"m craving. Summer is definitely the time that a cool treat comes to mind, but these establishments are open all year too. Something to keep in mind when that dessert craving hits, no matter what the weather is like outside. See you next month!