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602-677-4130 • DLJonesHomes.com May/June 2025 North Valley Pride
DIGITAL DIAGNOSIS When the Internet Becomes Your Doctor
We have all been there. We feel a strange ache or pain, grab our phone, and type our symptoms into Google. Before you know it, you are scrolling through worst-case scenarios, convinced that your minor knee pain is something far more serious. Or maybe you find “answers” that downplay your actual issue. I get it because I have done it, too. In June 2023, after a serious health scare that led to quadruple bypass heart surgery, I found myself searching the internet for explanations. I wanted to know everything. What caused my condition? What were the treatment options? What would life look like after surgery? There is something comforting in trying to gain control of an uncertain situation, but therein also lies a risk. The internet gives us access to endless information and is filled with expert insight. But the internet is also home to misinformation, unqualified opinions, and worst-case-scenario horror stories. The challenge is knowing how to separate credible sources from unreliable ones. Thankfully, plenty of trustworthy sources are available. Websites like the Mayo Clinic, MedlinePlus, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provide reliable, research-backed health information. Platforms like Smart Patients and NetWellness also offer expert-moderated discussions where people can ask questions and get accurate answers. When used wisely, these “But we all need to remember (including myself) that the internet is not a replacement for a real doctor.”
resources can help you feel more informed and confident when discussing health concerns with your doctor.
Beyond medical facts, the internet offers something equally valuable — community. Social media and online forums connect people who are going through similar health experiences, offering support, encouragement, and shared advice. Whether you are in a Facebook group, a Reddit thread, or a telehealth session with a professional, these digital spaces can help people feel less alone in their health journey. These positive interactions with others in your community and the uplifting health content can boost your mental well-being, provide reassurance, and even inspire healthier habits. But we all need to remember (including myself) that the internet is not a replacement for a real doctor. While tempting to find an answer that says, “You will be fine after a good night’s sleep!” instead of scheduling an actual appointment, you do not want to delay care and let a problem worsen. While research and learning more about your health are great, nothing replaces the expertise of a medical professional. At the end of the day, the internet is a tool — one that can either help or hinder you depending on how you use it. While online resources can be beneficial for learning and emotional support, they should never replace medical advice from a qualified professional. You do not want to delay proper treatment because an online search suggests that everything is fine. My experience reminded me of something simple yet crucial: Always seek out professional medical guidance first. Stay curious, stay informed, but most importantly, trust your doctor first. The internet can provide insights, but your doctor provides the answers that truly matter.
–Dennis Jones
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Extraordinary Realtors
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Dennis & Lisa Jones
We have seen more scams than we would like to count; thus, we are continuing our series on fraud and zeroing in on progressively more dangerous phishing scams . These scams target not just homebuyers and sellers; they are after anyone with an email account. If you have ever received an unexpected email asking you to reset a password unprompted or confirm a payment, you were likely the target of a phishing attempt. What is a phishing scam? Phishing scams disguise themselves as legitimate emails from well- known companies, banks, or even real estate agencies. They often claim there is an issue with your account and ask you to “click this link” to fix the problem. What they are really after is your personal information, financial details, and even your online accounts. With scammers becoming more sophisticated, these emails are harder to detect than ever. Clicking the wrong link can allow scammers to access your bank accounts, lock you out of your email, or even steal your identity. If you use the same password across multiple sites, one mistake can compromise your accounts. Red Flags. Gone are the days of spotting a scam email by obvious typos and terrible grammar. AI-powered scams are smarter, but they still have warning signs: Do Not Take the Bait! CLICKING THE WRONG LINK COULD COST YOU
• The sender’s email address does not quite match the company’s official address. • The message feels urgent or too good to be true. • The formatting looks slightly “off” or inconsistent. • You are requested to click a link or download an attachment. • The email is completely unexpected, especially if it involves money, a gift card, or sensitive information. Stay one step ahead. The best way to beat scammers is to stay one step ahead. Always verify emails by calling the sender directly; do not rely on email alone. Change your passwords regularly and be skeptical of urgency. If an email says “act fast” or threatens consequences, take a breath and double-check the legitimacy. Most importantly, educate yourself and others, especially seniors who are often targeted due to their lack of tech knowledge, larger savings, and generally trusting nature. Think before you click. If something seems off — verify. A simple phone call or a second look can make all the difference. We are more than happy to help you examine any suspicious emails! Phishing scams may be increasingly smarter, but we are too!
–Dennis and Lisa Jones
The Ultimate Mother’s Day Breakfast Plan
We should all show appreciation for the moms in our lives year-round, but Mother’s Day is the perfect opportunity to do something extra special. For many busy moms, a relaxing, stress-free breakfast in bed is the ultimate treat. But Mother’s Day breakfast does not have to be an over-the- top display or super complicated to prepare. A little planning, a few thoughtful details, and helping hands make all the difference. Start with a menu she will love. Mother’s Day breakfast in bed should be simple but meaningful. Breakfast go-tos like
pancakes and French toast are delicious and easy to make, and you can add a parfait or fresh fruit and a cup of freshly squeezed juice for a special touch. If she loves eggs and toast, go in that direction. Preparing Mom’s favorite dish or incorporating ingredients that remind her of a family tradition can take the meal to the next level. Present it beautifully. You can elevate even a simple breakfast with a few thoughtful additions. Ditch the disposables and use real plates, silverware, and linen napkins. Deliver the breakfast with
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Dennis & Lisa Jones
Mexican Street Corn Courtesy of EasyFamilyRecipes.com
HOW TO BUILD A HOME THEATER FOR LESS CINEMA DREAMS ON A POPCORN BUDGET
Lights! Camera! Couch!
You probably know by now that we LOVE Mexican food. This Mexican Street Corn recipe is a great side dish (and even makes a great dip!) and always receives rave reviews! I highly recommend using fresh corn and I always use lower fat content sour cream and mayo. Enjoy for your Cinco de Mayo celebration! –Lisa Jones
Ready to reel in the perfect movie night without breaking the bank? You can bring the theater into your living room by building a budget-friendly cinema your family will enjoy. You do not need a Hollywood actor’s salary to bring the magic of film to your favorite sofa. With some creativity and planning, you will be directing a screening room remodel in no time, saving you money on tickets and popcorn at the chain movie theater! Get the credits rolling on the home theater of your dreams — no blockbuster budget required.
INGREDIENTS
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2 lbs fresh or frozen corn kernels 1/2 cup mayonnaise 1/2 cup sour cream 1 1/2 tsp chili powder 1/2 tsp garlic powder
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1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp cayenne (optional) 5 oz queso fresco, grated or crumbled
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• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish • Fresh lime juice, for garnish
DIRECTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 350 F. 2. Pour the corn into a large casserole dish. Mix in the mayo, sour cream, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and half of the queso fresco until combined. 3. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until heated through and bubbling. 4. Sprinkle the remaining queso fresco over the casserole and top with chopped cilantro and lime juice. Enjoy!
Cast Your Dream Scene Is your family a fan of TV show binges or video game competitions that last for hours? Since you are working with a limited budget, choose the entertainment options most important to you and focus on those. Maybe a new game console is the top item on your wish list, so it is worth spending money on that rather than a new streaming service. And if you already have excellent speakers or a wide-screen TV that will fit perfectly into your plans in other rooms, you can shuffle your furniture around and reduce your costs. Create Star-Studded Effects Proper lighting, sound, and other features can transform a TV room into an authentic theater experience. If you can afford it, add ambient lighting, spotlights, and blackout curtains to set the mood. While a big-screen TV can do the job, projectors can create a real cinematic view. They also tend to be more compact, allowing more room for additional seating or a popcorn maker. Give your screening space the surround sound feel by installing a soundbar, a space-saving audio system that delivers rich, theater-quality sound. Set the Stage Complete your family theater by adding movie-themed decor and extra cinema comforts. Display movie posters of your family’s favorite films, and consider creating a mini concession stand. You can use a bar cart or inexpensive cabinet as a snack area, complete with a mini fridge with drinks.
care on a lovely tray accompanied by a small vase of flowers. Keep everything organized neatly, and include a handwritten card or note to add a heartfelt message to the meal. Make it a team effort. Get the whole family involved — minus Mom, of course! Even young kids can pitch in by spreading butter, arranging fruit, or folding napkins. Older kids can help out more with the actual cooking. To make Mother’s Day morning stress-free for everyone, do prep work the night before. Chop fruit, prepare the coffeemaker, and premix the pancake batter. And do not forget the cleanup. Working as a team to wash dishes and put things away will ensure a dirty kitchen doesn’t ruin Mom’s special day when she gets up. Remember, you do not have to prepare the perfect meal to make Mother’s Day memorable. It is all about showing your love and appreciation. The holiday is an opportunity to bring the entire family together to create a special moment for the most important woman in your life.
So, gather your crew to turn your living room into a movie lover’s paradise! Now, all that’s left is to push play and let the good times and tasty snacks roll!
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Extraordinary Realtors
602-677-4130
The Phoenix Real Estate Market Is ON FIRE! New listing and sales activity has picked up dramatically, as evidenced by the number of homes that will soon have proud new owners!
Anthem Country Club — 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, Great Vacation Just Listed at $425,000
Anthem Country Club — 3 Bedrooms (incl. Casita), Den, Remodeled, Huge Backyard!
Anthem Country Club — 3 Bedrooms, Wood Flooring, Corner Lot REDUCED to $535,000
Anthem Country Club — 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Bathrooms, Den/Office, Private Pool and Spa! Just Listed at $999,900
Anthem Country Club — 3 Bedrooms, Den, Custom Finishes Throughout, Spa, Million-Dollar Views! Just Reduced to $1,297,797
Anthem Country Club — 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Bathrooms, Den/Office, Beautifully Remodeled Kitchen with Amazing Desert and Mountain Views! Just Listed for $799,000
Black Canyon City — 3 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, Incredible Mountain Views, Spa, 1.76 Acres! Under Contract for $375,000
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Dennis & Lisa Jones
n Home!
Sonoran Mountain Ranch — 4 Bedrooms, Den, Granite & Stainless Kitchen, Pool, Wood Tile Floors — $535,000
Corte Bella Country Club — 3 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms (incl. Casita) in Gated Golf Course Community! Just Listed at $459,900
Anthem Country Club — 3 Bedrooms (incl. Casita), Den, Spool, Golf Course Views! $649,000
Anthem Country Club — 4 Bedrooms, Private Lot, Mountain & City Light Views!
Rancho del Rey — 4 Bedrooms, Granite & Stainless Kitchen, Move-in Ready, 1 Year NEW!
Anthem Country Club — Amazing Executive Residence with 2 Bedrooms, 2.5 Bathrooms, Den/Office, and a Private Pool! Just Listed for $799,000
Anthem Country Club — 3 Bedrooms, 3.5 Bathrooms, Den, Distant Mountain & City Light Views — Under Contract in 1 Day! $849,000
Dove Valley Ranch — 3 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, View Fencing to Open Space & Mountain Views — Under Contract First Day on Market!
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602-677-4130
When was the last time you gathered the family, threw down a blanket, and enjoyed a meal together in the warm sun? A picnic is the perfect springtime activity, but the planning and food prep can make it seem like more hassle than it’s worth. The truth is, however, that picnics do not have to be complicated. Here are four tips for planning easy family picnics. Pick the perfect picnic spot. When choosing a location for your picnic, think about how your family would like to spend the day. A park with open fields and playground equipment keeps kids entertained between bites, but a park isn’t the only option. The beach, a local lake, or a mountain picnic area are all fantastic for a family picnic. Just remember bug spray and sunscreen and find a shady spot on hot days. Do not overthink the menu. Picnics are all about the food, but that does not mean you have to fuss over the menu. Keep things simple, and choose items that can withstand time outside the cooler. Easy-
to-eat options like sandwiches, fruit, and finger foods are tasty and quick to prepare. Add variety with veggies and hummus or cheese and crackers. For an extra treat, grab premade cookies or brownies. Lemonade, juice, and fruit- infused water are refreshing options and keep everyone hydrated without the caffeine. Bring an insulated cooler for drinks and food, and do not forget wet wipes for easy cleanup. Create a cozy, kid-friendly setup. The picnic blanket is a great start, but you can take things up a notch with a few extras. Plush blankets, throw pillows, and lawn chairs offer comfortable sitting and lounging options. Pack entertainment as well; outdoor games, like Frisbee and ring toss, and a portable speaker to add to the fun. Do not forget — it is about family! Family outings should not be stressful; the best ones are sometimes the simplest. Instead of worrying about perfect details, focus on spending time together outdoors, relaxing, and enjoying good food and even better company.
Spring Family Picnics Made Easy
A Recipe for Renovation Tips for a Well-Planned Kitchen Upgrade
A great kitchen is the secret ingredient to the perfect home-cooked meal, but it might be the ideal time for a remodel if yours feels a little bland. Whether your cabinets are stuck in the past or your kitchen decor is beyond its best-by date, a kitchen upgrade can take you from groans to gourmet. But before you start whisking up big plans, it is essential to devise a solid strategy to keep your project from boiling over. Let us get cooking! Researching the Recipe Whether you want to handle most of the project yourself or hire professionals, it is essential to do your research. Decide what aesthetic or specific features you want to focus on so you can provide examples to contractors or start getting inspiration online. If hiring a professional, look at their portfolio to see if their qualifications match your kitchen goals. Get several quotes
to compare and find the right team for your remodel — or do it yourself. Planning With a Fully Baked Budget A kitchen remodel can be costly, with an estimated average cost of about $25,000. To create a perfectly baked budget, keep in mind the size of the space, your desired materials, and how drastically you want to change the layout. If you plan to remove walls or install new flooring, you must increase your budget. You can keep your costs down by tackling many of the tasks DIY-style with budget- friendly materials. Carefully consider big purchases, like new appliances or an island, but don’t forget to calculate for the little things, like nails and hardware. Prepping the Perfect Plan Once you know your goals and budget, create a project timeline and plan. Choose
the cabinets, appliances, decor, and other items you want, as well as backup options, so the project stays on track if a product is delayed. Record different measurements in your kitchen, like counter heights, so you have that information handy. If you are making structural changes like plumbing or electrical, contact your local municipality to apply for permits.
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Take a Break
The Future of Wellness at Home BOOST YOUR HOME’S VALUE WITH WELLNESS- CENTERED UPGRADES
Gone are the days when homebuyers only looked for decent square footage or upgraded kitchens! More and more buyers want homes that address their physical and mental well-being, which makes sense with the rise in wellness trends. However, wellness-focused interior design is not a passing trend but a movement redefining how people live and value their spaces. Bring nature indoors with a biophilic design. One of the most popular design choices is a biophilic design, which brings nature into the home to create a calm and inviting atmosphere. Large windows that let in natural light, indoor greenery, and natural materials like wood and stone are all in high demand. These elements are for aesthetic purposes and help you relax, reduce stress, and even boost productivity. Buyers are especially drawn to nature-inspired color palettes like soft greens, blues, and earthy neutrals. Biophilic design is all about making a home feel like a peaceful retreat from the busy world outside. Multi-functional spaces for mind and body. Recently, buyers have also been looking for flexible spaces for multiple wellness purposes. Many prospective buyers are asking about areas dedicated to meditation, yoga, reading, or quiet relaxation. When I walk them through homes, I often hear questions like, “Where can I set up my home gym?” or “Is there a space for a meditation nook?” Having these adaptable spaces makes a home much more appealing and functional for modern lifestyles. The power of smart technology. Wellness is not only about how a home looks but also how a home functions. Features like advanced air filtration systems, circadian lighting that mimics natural daylight, and voice-activated automation are becoming must-haves for many buyers. In my home, Dennis and I have programmed our bedroom so that a simple “Alexa, Goodnight” command turns off the lights, adjusts the temperature, plays ambient sounds, and even wishes us a good night! A smart investment for homeowners. For sellers, incorporating wellness-focused features into a home can significantly boost the appeal and value. As this movement grows, homes prioritizing wellness will enhance daily life and stand out in the market. Whether you are buying, selling, or simply refreshing your space, wellness- centered design is the future of home living. –Lisa Jones
BLOOM CINCO DERBY EMERALD
GEMINI GRADUATION LILY MEMORIAL
MOTHER ROSES TEACHER VETERANS
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Inside Dennis Dives Into the Do’s and Don’ts of a ‘Digital Diagnosis’ Why Phishing Scams Are More Dangerous Than Ever Mother’s Day Breakfast Ideas to Wow Mom
PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
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Lisa & Dennis Jones
3668 W. Anthem Way, Ste. B-158 • Anthem, AZ 85086 602-677-4130 • DLJonesHomes.com
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Mexican Street Corn
Theater Vibes Without the Ticket Price
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The Phoenix Real Estate Market Is Heating Up!
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Secrets to a Stress-Free Family Picnic
Cooking Up a Timely Remodeling Plan
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Discover Why Wellness Is the New Must-Have in Home Design
Take a Break
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Europe’s Hidden Paradise: The Hawaii of the Atlantic
Escape to the Azores
If a trek through timeless volcanic landscapes dotted with crater lakes,
climate is subtropical, with year-round temperatures ranging from 57 to 71 degrees Fahrenheit. Religious festivals and traditional holidays abound on these predominantly Roman Catholic islands, an autonomous region of Portugal. Beyond that, however, the islands’ culture, dialect, and cuisine vary widely. The largest island, São Miguel, is home to numerous hot springs and Europe’s only two tea plantations. An emblematic nature area, Sete Cidades, includes the famed Lagoa Azul (blue lagoon) and Lagoa Verde (green lagoon). Numerous healing hot springs in Furnas offer opportunities for wellness and relaxation seekers. Ilheu de Vila Franca, a flooded crater islet accessible from the southern shore of São Miguel, offers exceptional visibility of unique marine life, plus snorkeling, swimming, and cliff diving.
waterfalls, and hot springs, plus access to awe-inspiring marine life sounds inviting, the Azores may be the vacation spot for you! The Azores are an increasingly popular tourist destination, often called “the Hawaii of Europe” for their remote mid- ocean location and volcanic origins. The archipelago encompasses nine major islands 1,000 miles off the coast of Portugal and is one of the best whale- watching sites in the world. Visitors should plan their trip from the end of April to the beginning of May to view larger migratory species, such as the blue whale. The rocky shorelines of the Azores ascend as high as 7,713 feet atop the Ponta de Pico on the island of Pico. The islands’ untamed beauty offers plenty of outdoor activities, from kayaking to hiking. The
Wine lovers will enjoy the island of Pico, where vintners produce the islands’ complex volcanic wines. The Azores Wine Company offers tastings, tours, and overnight stays. The island of Santa Maria has the only white-sand beaches in the region. And Faial Island’s bountiful hydrangea gardens have earned it the nickname “The Blue Island.” Foodies will also enjoy famous local foods, including octopus stewed in wine, kale soup, fried mackerel, and fresh yogurt and cheeses. Taken together, the Azores have something to delight any traveler.
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