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602-677-4130 • DLJonesHomes.com January/February 2024 North Valley Pride
Discover Art, Nature, and History in Every Corner A HOME UNLIKE ANY OTHER
January is always the iciest month of the year nationwide, but not in Phoenix! As we dive further into the winter season, we cannot help but be grateful to reside in this desert paradise with never-ending sunshine. Both of us can wholeheartedly admit that we would never consider leaving Phoenix and the endless warmth and beauty. Many people come to Phoenix seeking refuge from harsh winters, lackluster cultural scenes, and sky-rocketing prices. Somehow, this gem we call home continues to offer the best of the best every year, year-round. Even past winter, Phoenix has so much to boast about and reel in new residents. Who can ignore a city that experiences nearly 300 days of sunshine? If you have visited Phoenix before during the winter, you know just how refreshing this warmth can be for those usually busy scraping ice off their windshields. Here, you only need a pair of flip-flops! Yet, for those looking for a snow day in Phoenix, you can easily head to Snowbowl to ski on the powder.
our favorite outdoor activities in the most stunning landscapes, even in the depths of winter. Hit the trail, golf on the numerous local courses, or simply lounge in your own backyard oasis for all 12 months. Since so many people come to Phoenix to stay active under the sun, you can find countless communities that gather for different activities, such as yoga, hiking, and pretty much anything you can imagine! Finding a city with as many activity options as Phoenix will be difficult. We have also met so many new residents who came to Phoenix for the arts and cultural scene. We often take the arts scene for granted since we are constantly surrounded by art, music, architecture, and history from countless different cultures. We have no shortage of galleries, museums, and festivals here, and for those looking for rich cultural experiences, Phoenix is the place to be all year round. Do not even get us started on the city’s dining choices! You could eat at a new (and outstanding) restaurant every evening if you want.
recognize the various nearby gems at your fingertips. Phoenix residents have easy access to places like Sedona, Flagstaff, and the Grand Canyon. Hop in your car, and you can head to California, Nevada, or New Mexico in just hours! Perhaps the most attractive aspect of this populous city has to be the thriving economy and enticing housing market that continues to shock new residents every year. Despite being Arizona’s capital city and the fifth-largest city in the country, the housing market is less expensive than most major cities. Phoenix offers some of the lowest costs compared to other metropolises, not just in housing, but also in food, transportation, and utilities. Clearly, we are big fans! For anyone who is on the fence about making Phoenix their new home, be it a primary or secondary residence, we are here to tell you that you will not find a better, more vibrant city with this price tag. If you ever need more information, whether on real estate or local happenings, we are here for you. We want you to love where you live just as much as we do! –Dennis & Lisa Jones
We not only get to relish the endless summer days all year but also partake in
If you are still wondering if Phoenix is the right place for you, then you need to
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Extraordinary Realtors
602-677-4130
Dennis & Lisa Jones
In today’s fast-paced world, it is easy to overlook the simple yet profound act of sharing a meal with family or friends. However, research suggests that eating together at least three times a week can significantly benefit overall health, particularly for children. Let us delve into why this age-old tradition is more important than ever. Healthy Eating Habits One of the most immediate benefits of family meals is you generally eat better. Families sitting down to eat together are more likely to consume a balanced homemade meal rich in essential nutrients like calcium and fiber. This is especially beneficial for children in their formative years who need these nutrients for growth and development. Weight Management Eating together also helps in controlling weight more effectively. Home-prepared meals usually contain healthier ingredients and allow for better portion control. Mealtime structure also supports better eating habits, which can be a crucial factor in weight management for both adults and children. Positive Effects on Child Development Research suggests that eating dinner together positively affects child development. Children interact with adults and siblings, and conversations help them learn social skills, table manners, family values, and culture. FOOD FOR THOUGHT: THE BENEFITS OF EATING AS A FAMILY
Emotional Well-Being Family meals are not just about the food but also about spending quality time together. Enjoying a meal with loved ones allows family bonding and may even improve mental health. It contributes to fewer emotional problems and helps children feel loved, safe, and secure. Educational Benefits Mealtime conversations can be educational. Parents can discuss various topics, helping children expand their knowledge, vocabulary, and critical thinking skills. This intellectual stimulation can be particularly beneficial for school-aged children. Sharing meals with family or friends is not just a social custom but a healthful practice with numerous benefits. The advantages are numerous, especially for children. So, make it a point to gather around the table for a meal at least three times a week. Your body, mind, and soul will thank you.
We do not want to confuse you, but Jan. 25 is Opposite Day, and in that spirit, we thought we would share advice that we would never give to our clients and why. We hope we can help you steer clear of these mishaps. We promise not one of these bad ideas will do you any good! ‘Never Buy a Home — Always Rent!’ No! Renting is simply paying someone else’s mortgage for them. If you do not want to build equity and work on your financial future, then we recommend you continue renting! Break the rental cycle and purchase a home to start building your financial future. ‘Buy a New Car During Escrow!’ No! If you really want to foul up your financing, then go buy that new car while you are waiting for your home mortgage to close. Rest assured, your lender will find out and will most likely decline your home loan (or make you pay off the vehicle)! HOMEBUYING BLUNDERS YOU NEED TO AVOID Advice You Should Ignore on Opposite Day
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Dennis & Lisa Jones
This delicious soup is heart-healthy, vegetarian, and gluten-free! (Leave out the cheese and make it dairy- free, too!) Courtesy of Ashley Jones. Roasted Cauliflower & Potato Soup LISA’S KITCHEN
Traveling can be an enriching and fulfilling experience, but it can also be costly. Many people dream of exploring new destinations, but financial constraints can be limiting. Fortunately, we are here to share five practical tips to help you save money while enjoying your trip. Plan and budget ahead. One of the most effective ways to save money is by planning and budgeting your trip in advance. Create a comprehensive budget that includes airfare, accommodation, food, transportation, and activities. Having a budget lets you track your expenses and helps you avoid overspending. You can also take advantage of early bird rates for flights and hotels. Cancel unnecessary subscriptions. Before you travel, review your monthly subscriptions like gym memberships, streaming services, or magazines you will not use while you are away. Temporarily canceling these subscriptions can free up extra cash for your travel fund. Look for discounts and offers. Keep an eye out for discounts, offers, and coupons that 5 Proven Strategies for Cost-Effective Travel
INGREDIENTS
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1 yellow onion, cut into chunks
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6 cups vegetable stock 4–5 medium-sized Yukon Gold potatoes 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese Green onions or freeze- dried chives for garnish
2 cloves garlic
1 head of cauliflower (about 2 cups), chopped 1/4 tsp cracked black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil, or more as needed
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DIRECTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 425°F. Toss onion, garlic, and cauliflower in olive oil and pepper. Spread the mixture evenly on a baking sheet. Roast for 20–25 minutes, turning the contents halfway through. 2. While the cauliflower is roasting, bring vegetable stock to a boil and cook the potatoes until fork-tender, about 20 minutes. 3. Combine the potatoes and contents of the baking sheet in a blender and emulsify until smooth or desired consistency. Note: Set aside a few pieces of potato or cauliflower if you prefer the soup to be chunkier. 4. Return the contents of the blender to the pot and add red pepper flakes and 3/4 cup of shredded cheese (leave the remaining 3/4 cup for garnish). Cook on low heat for 5 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and the ingredients to combine. 5. Serve, garnishing with the green onions or chives and remaining shredded cheese.
can help you save money on activities, dining, and shopping. Websites
like Groupon and LivingSocial offer various deals that
could be useful during your trip. These websites often provide discounted tickets to attractions, cheaper dining options, and even discounted rates for experiences like spa treatments or outdoor activities.
‘Paint Every Room of the Home a Different Color!’ No! Prospective buyers will likely not have the same taste or be able to envision your home as you did when you were watching HGTV! Of course, there is nothing wrong with a few strategic pops of color, but be wary of painting each room an entirely different color from the rest. Next thing you know, you are breaking your back (or bank account) trying to repaint these rooms when you decide to sell. ‘Never Buy the First Home You See!’ There is nothing wrong with love at first sight! Just in case you want to “sleep on it,” always remember that someone else saw that house before you and already “slept on it” and might be submitting an offer while you are sleeping. If you love a home, even the first home you see, do not hesitate to make an offer! Once that home is under contract, the chances of buying that home or finding a similar home are significantly diminished. –Dennis & Lisa Jones
Travel during off-peak seasons. Traveling during off-peak seasons will save you money on flights, hotels, and activities. You also benefit from less crowded destinations and shorter queues for popular tourist attractions. This is a win-win for travelers seeking a budget-friendly and less-crowded travel experience. Use local grocery stores and pack snacks. Another way to save money while you travel is by shopping at local grocery stores for snacks and meals rather than eating out for every meal. This gives you a taste of local businesses and culture. Packing snacks can also help you avoid buying overpriced food at airports or touristy areas. By implementing these tips into your travel planning and experience, you can stretch your dollar further without compromising the quality of your trip. Happy traveling!
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Extraordinary Realtors
602-677-4130
New Year, New Listings
We are continually on the lookout for beautiful homes to feature on our “American Dream Valley of the Sun” TV show. If you are thinking of selling, give us a call to schedule a preview meeting. You may watch current and past episodes of our show on our website at DLJonesHomes.com.
Those trendy floating shelves you see all over Instagram are not as difficult to craft as you think! Perfect for any minimalist, plant lover, or beginner renovator, floating shelves are your answer to easy storage and decor. For simple floating shelves, follow these steps. Beginner’s Guide to Floating Shelves HOME RENOVATION MADE SIMPLE
Cut your wood. Depending on how long you want your shelves to be, the length of your wooden boards will vary. Take your time and decide what would work best for your space. Once you decide on the right measurements, cut your boards.
Anthem Parkside: 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, loft, and a private pool! $650k
Attach corner braces. On the flat bottom of the board, secure your corner braces with screws. You can paint your corner braces the same color as your wall to really make your shelves look like they float!
Secure your new shelves! Use painter’s tape to outline where you want your shelves to float. Once your lines are straight, drill holes where you will be securing your corner braces. Screw your shelf into the wall where you drilled your holes, then you’re done!
Single family home in Anthem Country Club! 3 bedrooms — $425k
Anthem Coun 4 bedrooms, 3.5 b
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Dennis & Lisa Jones
Upgrade Your Home Office 3 TIPS TO SPICE UP YOUR WORKSPACE
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, from 2019 to 2021, the number of people working from home tripled from about 9 million to 27.6 million. Remote work is expected to increase because of the benefits workers can get from it. For example, they have flexible schedules, spend less money on commuting, and can have more time with their children. While remote work has many benefits, some people find it challenging to remain productive and motivated in their home office. Here are three tips to upgrade your office space so you can boost creativity and productivity. Upgrading Your Lighting Lighting plays a vital role when it comes to productivity. Natural sunlight is the best illumination for stimulating motivation. PLOS One conducted a study that found sunlight positively affected mental health, improved mood, lowered anxiety, and boosted productivity. However, if you do not get a lot of sun in your home office, you can invest in several kinds of lights to enhance your workspace. Some examples include color-changing accent lights, light therapy lamps, string lights, and stained-glass bulbs. Adding Some Greenery If your home office is feeling a bit bland, plants not only introduce color into your room but also improve air quality and increase motivation. Even if you do not have a green thumb, several houseplants take little maintenance to keep alive. Look into snake plants, aloe vera, nerve plants, and peace lilies. To find the perfect houseplant, go to your local home improvement store to check out plant selections in the garden center. Decluttering Your Workspace If your home office is not organized, it can affect your motivation exponentially. Working in a cluttered area can be distracting and stressful. So, inspect your workspace and see what you need to keep and what can be removed. Invest in containers and drawer dividers to organize supplies and tools.
Anthem Serenity Villas: 3-bedroom condo, 2-car garage. Lock and leave! $414k
Anthem Parkside: 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2-car garage — $425k
Remote work does not seem to be going anywhere any time soon, and it looks like more of us will spend more time in our home offices. So, ensure you have a comfortable workspace to complete all your necessary tasks. Do you work from home? What are some of your strategies to remain motivated? We would love to hear from you!
ntry Club Estate baths — $1,065,000
4 bedrooms, private pool, golf course views, Anthem Country Club — SOLD for $999k
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Extraordinary Realtors
602-677-4130
Discover the Health Benefits of Chlorophyll
Detoxification Chlorophyll aids in purifying the body by binding to and removing toxins, heavy metals, and chemicals. This process supports liver health and promotes overall well-being. Alkalizing Effect Chlorophyll helps alkalize the body and balance pH levels. An alkaline environment is less susceptible to diseases, making it an essential component of an anti- inflammatory diet. Improved Digestion Including chlorophyll in your diet can help promote healthy digestion by reducing inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract and enhancing the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. Odor Control Chlorophyll can act as a natural deodorant by neutralizing odors in the body and reducing bad breath. Skin Health It is believed that chlorophyll can assist with skin conditions such as acne, sun damage, and eczema, as its anti-inflammatory
properties can soothe irritated skin and promote a healthier complexion. Weight Management Chlorophyll supplements can aid in weight loss by controlling appetite and suppressing cravings. These effects can lead to a lower calorie intake. Immune Support By strengthening the immune system and reducing inflammation, chlorophyll can help the body protect itself against infections and diseases. Cancer Prevention While more research is needed, studies suggest that chlorophyll may help protect against certain types of cancer by preventing DNA damage and inhibiting cancer cell growth. While chlorophyll is generally safe, be sure to consult a health care professional before taking chlorophyll supplements, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications. By incorporating more chlorophyll-rich foods and supplements into your daily routine, you will be on your way to improved overall health!
Chlorophyll, the green pigment responsible for absorbing energy from the sun and assisting plants in photosynthesis, is often referred to as “nature’s green magic” due to its numerous health benefits. Let us explore the perks of adding some to your diet. Antioxidants Chlorophyll is rich in antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress in the body. Neutralizing harmful free radicals can reduce cellular damage and lower the risk of chronic diseases such as certain cancers and cardiovascular conditions.
Simple Hacks for a Well-Organized and Clutter-Free Home
Follow the ‘one in, one out’ rule. For every new item you bring into your home, consider getting rid of one item. This rule helps you avoid having too much “stuff” and is a terrific system if you have the discipline to keep up with it (that second part can be tricky)! Utilize deep-cleaning hacks. Did you know that baking soda and vinegar are a dynamic duo when it comes to cleaning various surfaces in your home? Baking soda is a gentle abrasive cleaner, while vinegar is a natural disinfectant. Mixing them is a great way to clean ovens, sinks and drains, and even grout. Another often-neglected area is the inside of your microwave, but it can be easy to clean — with steam! Simply fill a microwave-safe bowl with water and a few slices of lemon and microwave it for a few minutes. The steam will help loosen grime and make it easier to wipe away with a cloth.
Invest in storage solutions. Efficient storage solutions, such as bins, shelves, and drawer dividers, can help you maximize your space and keep everything organized. Under-bed storage containers are great for organizing seasonal items, and wall-mounted shelves are ideal for displaying keepsakes and collectibles.
Now that we have entered 2024, it is the perfect time to refresh and rejuvenate your living space. Decluttering, cleaning, and reorganizing can give your home a fresh start and contribute to a sense of mental clarity and productivity. Here are five cleaning and organizational hacks to kick- start your new year. Use the 15-minute rule. One of the simplest and most effective organizational hacks is to spend just 15 minutes every day decluttering a different area of your home. Whether it is a drawer, shelf, or closet, the consistent effort will add up and help you maintain a clutter-free space throughout the year. Create a cleaning schedule. Establish a weekly or monthly cleaning schedule to ensure all areas of your home are consistently maintained. Having a plan in place will make it easier to stay on top of chores and prevent them from piling up.
By implementing these cleaning and organizational hacks, you can create a more peaceful and efficient living space that sets a positive tone for the entire year. The keys are to start small and stay consistent to enjoy the benefits of a well-organized and clutter-free home.
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Dennis & Lisa Jones
Take a Break
While I do not want to talk your ear off about the topic, I would be remiss if I did not share a few thoughts with you during February, American Heart Month. I am almost at seven months since my quadruple bypass open heart surgery. Since last June, I have taken extra precautions in caring for my heart, and I want to share these tips with you to all protect our hearts this year. HEART HEALTH A Healthy Lifestyle Is Your Best Protection A SURVIVOR’S GUIDE TO
Everyone regularly asks me the same questions, “What were the warning signs?” and “What were the causes?” Well, the truth is I did not see this heart situation coming at all! I know many of us are just looking for a quick fix or an easy way to catch something before the worst happens. Unfortunately, heart disease often appears without warning. The only measure that can keep you safe is to be living a consistently healthy lifestyle. If you are not eating well and taking care of yourself, no easy cure-all exists. You need to be proactive, not reactive!
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MUFFIN PANCAKE RABBIT ROSES
My warning could have killed me! I definitely had a wake-up call to start taking better care of myself. Just eight months prior, I had a clear stress test and passed with no problem. I thought I was perfectly healthy! The truth is I could have done so much more to protect my heart. Now, I have made some changes to my lifestyle that I hope you will consider trying, too.
I truly feel like I am 95% back to normal thanks to these changes:
•
Practice portion control at all meals
• Reduce my sodium intake to less than 2,000 mg per day • Walk at least 10,000 steps every day (4-5 miles) • Monitor my weight daily • Rest more by going to bed earlier with a goal of sleeping seven hours per night
A few alterations to your daily routine can have an incredible impact on your heart health, much more than you imagine. For the new year, let us all make a resolution to work on our heart health! You do not want to wait until it is too late, because you might not survive your warning like I did.
–Dennis Jones
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Extraordinary Realtors
602-677-4130
Inside Why We Are Grateful to Call Phoenix Home Why Eating Together Matters More Than You Think The Top 4 Pieces of Advice We Would NEVER Give Roasted Cauliflower & Potato Soup
PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
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Lisa & Dennis Jones
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3668 W. Anthem Way, Ste. B-158 • Anthem, AZ 85086 602-677-4130 • DLJonesHomes.com
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Innovative Ideas to Cut Your Vacation Costs
Beginner’s Guide to Floating Shelves
New Year, New Listings
Remote Work Isn’t Going Anywhere How ‘Nature’s Green Magic’ Can Transform Your Health Transform Your Home With 5 Cleaning Hacks Dennis’ Practical Tips for a Heart- Healthy Lifestyle
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Take a Break
The Key to Thriving in Your 50s and Beyond
AGE IS JUST A NUMBER HOW CONSISTENT EXERCISE KEEPS YOU YOUNG
It has been said that you are only as old as you feel. If that is true, then there are plenty of Americans in their 50s and 60s who feel like they are in their 30s or 40s. As a result, they are enjoying the “prime” of their lives for much longer than generations past. The general life expectancy for Americans has historically trended upward, though COVID-19 introduced the first downward trend in decades. Today, the average life expectancy for men is 73 and for women, 79.
Correlated to this increase in life expectancy is an overall improvement in a person’s quality of life. People who are 50-plus are enjoying a quality of life that, in many cases, is seamless for them compared to earlier decades. There are several contributing factors, including diet, advances in health care, and other technological improvements, but one of the most important is consistent exercise. If you are over 50, there are steps you can take to age gracefully — literally! First, remember to warm up. While you may want to start your exercise immediately, take a few moments to stretch your muscles properly. Another thing you can do is to ensure your exercise methods are low-impact whenever you can. While you may want to go out and run several miles, approach high-impact exercising with caution. You may feel younger, but your bones and joints continue to age, and the parts of your body that serve as “shock absorbers” for the rest of the skeletal system wear out faster than the rest of your body. The main thing to do to give yourself the best chance of feeling as good as you can in your 50s and 60s is to find a consistent source of activity that you enjoy and keep doing it!
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