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602-677-4130 • DLJonesHomes.com March/April 2024 North Valley Pride
BUILDING BONDS BEYOND BUSINESS CLIENT APPRECIATION
Stepping back and looking at the big picture, something really stands out to us: How crucial it is for businesses like ours to not just value but truly cherish every single customer and relationship we are lucky enough to build. This belief is not just something we discuss casually; it is the core of who we are. This principle guides every decision we make, turning ordinary business interactions into meaningful, personal connections. With clients as the focus, we wanted to do something to bring people together, show appreciation, and make sure our clients know how valuable they are to us. We decided to open the doors of our home and invite our local clients for an evening. The idea itself was enough to give us butterflies. “What if everyone actually comes?” we joked with each other. The thought was exciting and nerve-wracking. Deep down, we knew not everyone could attend due to other commitments, but the response was
overwhelming in the best way possible. Over a hundred of our clients RSVP’ed “yes” — a number that warmed our hearts. The evening turned out to be something from a dream. We had a lavish spread of food and drinks, with every countertop in our home covered in tasty treats and beverages, creating a feast to express our gratitude. The atmosphere was filled with warmth, laughter, and genuine conversations, making clear just how much we value these relationships. And here is a fun surprise we had up our sleeves — we invited the same photographer who captured last year’s client appreciation event to come again. But this time, we asked for candid shots, capturing the real, unguarded moments of joy and connection throughout the evening. These photos are more than just images; they are memories, snapshots of the vibrant community of which we are so proud to be a part.
These precious moments have found their way into our newsletter and social media, not just as a way to share the joy, but as an invitation to those who could not come to feel connected to what we all experienced together. The heart of our message is simple: We absolutely love our clients. Every event we host, every thank-you note we send, springs from this love. In the bustling world of business, the personal connections are what truly matter, the relationships we nurture that make all the difference. To our clients, both near and far, thank you for being a part of our journey, for turning professional ties into a cherished community. To many more years of shared moments and heartfelt celebrations, –Dennis & Lisa Jones
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Dennis & Lisa Jones
HOW TO ENJOY THE EMPTY NEST
Welcome to the new phase of life every parent faces, the empty nest. It is that bittersweet time when the last child packs up and leaves only echoes in their once bustling rooms. Suddenly, the soundtrack of your life has shifted from a lively chorus to silence. For 18 years or more, school runs, sports practices, and the ever-present hum of family life framed most of your days. Now, your home feels a tad too spacious.
It is normal to miss the commotion and the constant interaction with your children. But you are entering an exciting new chapter in your life, just like your children are. Your role as a parent is simply evolving. You have been their guide, teacher, and protector for years, and those roles do not just disappear — they transform. Your children will still look to you for support and guidance; this is your chance to be there for them in a new way.
There is no reason to be cut off from your children. Stay connected through texts, FaceTime calls, and good old-fashioned phone conversations. Discuss their new experiences and share your own. Arranging in-person visits can turn into new traditions for your family. Allow yourself to enjoy this different but equally rewarding aspect of parenthood. Now, let us turn the spotlight on you. This is your time, a golden opportunity to focus on self-care and personal growth. Remember those hobbies you shelved when parenting took center stage? Dust them off and give them a whirl! Painting, hiking, learning a musical instrument, or even skydiving — there is no better time to explore old or new interests. With fewer responsibilities at home, you can pack your bags and explore. Whether across the globe or the state, travel refreshes your spirit and broadens your horizons, offering perspectives that can only come from stepping out of your comfort zone. Life does not stop teaching, and we never stop learning. Your nest might be empty, but your life is full of opportunities waiting for you to seize.
Beyond the Cable Box A NEW ERA OF TV VIEWING
A significant shift is happening right under our noses, and if you are like me, you have noticed. The era of traditional cable TV is waning, giving way to the vibrant, ever-expanding universe of streaming services. This shift is not just a trend, but a full-blown migration, a march toward a future where our favorite shows and episodes are available at our fingertips, anytime, anywhere. For years, “cutting the cable” was a phrase tossed around with a mix of curiosity and caution. But here we are, witnessing a massive shift from conventional cable TV to streaming platforms. The freedom to choose what we watch, when we watch without being tethered to a cable box or a rigid TV schedule is revolutionizing our viewing experience. Our beloved TV show, “The American Dream TV,” is embracing this wave of change. While we have cherished our time airing on select local Fox TV channels, the horizon calls for something broader, something more accessible, which is why we are taking a significant leap toward streaming services. Platforms like Apple TV, YouTube TV, Travel Channel, Roku, Amazon Prime, and more are now home to
our episodes. Imagine having the liberty to dive into the stories we tell on “The American Dream TV” anytime you want. This change is not just about convenience, but also about connecting with you, our viewers, on a more personal and flexible level. Our episodes, rich with stories of luxury, adventure, and the pursuit of the American dream, are now searchable and watchable 24 hours a day on these streaming platforms. To know that at any moment,
you can immerse yourself in the tales of people chasing and achieving their dreams, without the constraints of a TV schedule, is thrilling. And we have something extra for you here — a QR code. A simple scan with your cellphone will take you to our website, where all our recent episodes await your viewing pleasure, free of charge, any time of the day. Enjoy our way of saying, “Join us, be part of this adventure, and let us explore the American Dream together.”
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Dennis & Lisa Jones
LISA’S KITCHEN
As spring break nears, you might already have plans to travel to Punta Cana, London, Key West, Paris, or a similar destination city. One more to add to your travel checklist is Sintra, Portugal. This beautiful town rests on the hills of Serra de Sintra, just outside the capital, Lisbon. The two castles within the city are the main draws, and it’s easy to see why. Pena Palace and Gardens The National Pena Palace and Gardens are absolutely stunning. The palace is adorned in primary colors, with intricately carved yellow, red, and This Beautiful City Is Straight Out of a Fairy Tale ADD SINTRA, PORTUGAL, TO YOUR TRAVEL PLANS!
I came across this recipe over the holidays, and with fresh asparagus in season, this dip would make a great Easter appetizer with crackers or pita chips. You can assemble this dip hours ahead, store in the refrigerator, then pop it in the oven 30 minutes before serving. From TasteOfHome.com Baked Asparagus Dip
INGREDIENTS
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1 lb diced, cooked fresh asparagus 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese 1 cup mayonnaise (I use low-fat mayo)
blue buildings. It will cost you 10 euros to explore the grounds and a couple of extra euros to go inside, but it is worth it! The
DIRECTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 375 F. 2. In a 2-cup ovenproof bowl, combine all ingredients and mix well. Bake until heated through, about 20 minutes.
carvings include many styles, including Neo-Islamic and Neo- Renaissance. Everything is opulent, and you will have a great time as you take in
the extravagance. Some rooms are painted as an optical illusion, with doors and hallways looking three-dimensional when they are just flat.
Once you head back outside, the rest of the grounds are just as lovely. The enormous gardens have many trails, marked and unmarked. You can get lost in the beautiful oasis, and we encourage you to put aside at least half a day to explore the gardens. Quinta da Regaleira Quinta da Regaleira is the city’s second significant castle boasting beautiful gardens, but its main draw is the initiation well. This 80-foot- deep well is a wonder as it sinks into the earth with mossy walls. We suggest you go early, as this is another big attraction for those visiting the city, and officials try to keep people moving as they arrive, mainly as it is one-way traffic on the steps themselves. Once on the grounds, you can explore many grottos by following their main paths. The castle itself is not as opulent as Pena Palace, but it is still a lovely location to visit. Sintra is perfect for any vacation, and though these are the main draws for the city, by no means are they the only ones. We encourage you to check out this city and see if it fits your travel plans.
Let us embrace the new and endless possibilities streaming services bring to our storytelling. Together, let us continue to dream big, explore further, and connect deeper. After all, is that not what “The American Dream TV” is all about? –Dennis Jones
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Now Is a Great Time to Buy! 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.
Grow Your Green Thumb This Spring A SPRING GARDENING GUIDE
Spring is in the air; the chirping birds and warm air call you outdoors. It is the perfect time to start your garden. Even as a beginning gardener, you can find plants and flowers to bring you joy throughout the summer. Carrots and radishes are quick, easy, and grow well in most areas. Carrots are versatile veggies great for snacking and cooking; even your dogs will love them! They need to be planted early, though, as they take about three months to germinate. Radishes are cool-season vegetables you can start indoors and plant outside after the last frost. Other vegetables can be started from seeds indoors in late February to early March. Try cabbage, kale, broccoli, cauliflower, onions, leeks, endive, and lettuce. Later, in mid to late March, you can start peppers, tomatoes, eggplant, Swiss chard, and tomatillos indoors. Wait to plant your seeds and seedlings in the ground until two weeks after the last frost. Some early cold-tolerant vegetables, like cabbage, broccoli, and head lettuce, can go in the ground in early to mid-March. Heat-loving plants like peppers, okra, and eggplant that grow slowly can also be planted in March. Tomatoes are the stars of many gardens. It is best to wait until early April to plant them, though. They are like Goldilocks and prefer everything just right — not too cold or hot. We cannot talk about gardening without giving a few helpful tips for adding color. Plant hydrangea, aster, pansy, sweet peas, garden mums, and Oriental lilies in the spring to invite pollinators and provide blooming color throughout the summer. Spring bulbs, like crocus and daffodils, are the first to bloom. Sometimes, they will even bloom when there is a bit of snow on the ground. But it is best to plant bulbs in the fall so they have time to settle in their roots. A gardener’s best friend is the USDA Hardiness Zone Map. Since most states include three different growing zones, it is a handy resource to choose the best plants for your area. The website at PlantHardiness.ars. usda.gov has a wealth of information, including tips for easy maintenance. So, grab your gloves, get your seeds, and enjoy watching your garden grow!
Anthem Country Club — 2 Bedrooms, Den, 2.5 Baths, Golf and Mountain Views Just Listed at $750,000
Anthem Parkside — 4 Bedrooms, Loft, 2.75 Baths SOLD for $632,000
Cave Creek — 3 Bedro 1.93 Acre Lot — Just L
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Dennis & Lisa Jones
We accumulate a lot of stuff as we go through life, and it can pile up quickly. For practical and safety reasons, it is good to reduce the clutter. If you are not sure what to keep, try following these seven rules for decluttering your home. 1. The House Fire Rule: If you are organizing your belongings and are unsure if you should throw something away, ask yourself, “If it burned away in a fire, how much would I care?” Putting things into perspective this way may help you let go of things you will not end up missing. 2. The 20/20 Rule: Many people keep too much stuff “just in case” they might need it later. Consider giving away the things that cost under $20 and would take less than 20 minutes to replace. 7 GOLDEN RULES For a Streamlined Living Space
3. The Box Rule: If you are going through your stuff and feel overwhelmed, put it all in a box and store it in your garage or basement. After six months, scan the box and donate everything you do not need.
Anthem Country Club — 4 Bedrooms, 3.5 Baths Just Reduced to $999,999
4. The Investment Rule: Memories are more
important than objects. A trip to the movies with a friend is always more fun than a new T-shirt. So, be proactive about decluttering by buying more experiences with loved ones instead of more things.
Anthem Country Club — 4 Bedrooms, Den, 3.5 Baths Just Reduced to $899,000
5. The Home Rule: Everything you own should have a home. It could be a drawer, a room, or a designated spot on the counter. If it does not have a place in your house and is just being stored without intention, either create a home for it or get rid of it. 6. The Other People Rule: When buying something, consider why you are making the purchase. Is it for you or someone else? For example, a new phone might have better specs, but are you just considering it for the status? And if you are buying for someone else, consider if it is something they really need. 7. The 90% Rule: Love everything you own; only own your favorite things. Whether buying new things or decluttering, only save things that bring you joy at least 90% of the time. Remember, you own your things — they do not own you. Do not be afraid to give or throw away what you do not need. If you follow these rules and declutter your home, you can free yourself from the burden of junk.
ooms, Den, 3 Baths, Listed at $1,275,000
Anthem Country Club — 2 Bedrooms, Den, 2.5 Baths, Golf Course Lot — Just Reduced to $734,900
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Soaking in the heated waters of a hot spring is an experience you will want again and again once you try it. And there is much more to this geothermal wonder than meets the eye. The naturally heated, mineral- rich water nourishes the body and mind, allowing you to shed stress as you easily float on the surface. How Hot Springs Work Hot springs are heated by geothermal energy. Water meets volcanic hot rocks, resulting in boiling mineral-rich water. Regions far away from volcanic activity can also have hot springs; those occur when a spring runs so deep that it hits rocks close to the Earth’s crust. These rocks are naturally very hot, which then heat the water. How Minerals and Heat Improve Your Health The water in hot springs contains a plethora of minerals, so the water can be healthy and rejuvenating, providing benefits for your skin, cardiovascular system, and more. Every spring has a unique mineral makeup and varied health effects, but here are four of the most common.
Improved Blood Circulation: Minerals like calcium, iron, and sodium bicarbonate are great for blood circulation, as they promote oxygen flow. Radiant Skin: Nitrogen, silica, and other minerals are excellent for exfoliating skin. Less Stress: As the warm water melts stress away, the magnesium and lithium improve your mood. Pain Reduction: Sulfate helps reduce pain, while hot water soothes muscles and reduces inflammation.
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Where You Can Find Hot Springs The western part of the U.S. has a higher concentration of hot springs, but if you look hard enough, you can find one anywhere. Some hot springs are deep in the mountains, so you will have to hike in. They often have specular views and are worth the journey. If you do not want to trek up a mountain, you will find many spas built around hot springs that offer amenities besides the spring, such as restaurants and saunas. So, the next time you are traveling, locate the hot springs in your area and put a visit on your itinerary!
The Allure of Hot Springs EARTH’S GEOTHERMAL WONDER
CLICK WHEREVER, WHENEVER WITH FINGERBOT AFFORDABLE SMART TECH LETS YOU PUSH ANY BUTTON REMOTELY
The Fingerbot is a new entry into the fantastic realm of smart gadgets. This small cube acts as a remote finger with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. An app lets you control traditional devices remotely, allowing you to flip a switch anywhere there is Wi-Fi. This opens a wide variety of opportunities. Available for under $30, the little device can click any button or start up any appliance remotely.
Long Battery Life: Boasts up to eight months of power with a rechargeable battery. Easy to Install: All you have to do is peel the Fingerbot backing off and stick it wherever. Automation: Compatible with most smart home software and apps, allowing you to program it however you like. These features make the Fingerbot popular for smart home and automation enthusiasts. It works well with software used in home automation alongside other gadgets. Use Ideas While the Fingerbot may seem simple, it has a wide range of uses. It is limited only by the imagination. The device will function wherever there’s a switch or a button to press.
older devices or make them smart. You can use it to open a garage door, turn the AC off, or turn on a coffee machine. Software compatibility gives you tremendous options, such as voice control. Some people have devised more creative uses. Ever forget to water your plants? Fingerbot can help. Its lightweight size and versatility allow you to attach it to almost anything, including a spray bottle. Program it to spray every 30 seconds and ensure your favorite plant stays perfectly quenched. The Fingerbot is an exciting example of how people use smart technology to automate their homes. While you can find other ways to implement smart tech around the house, the Fingerbot is unique — it helps you repurpose that older technology you are not ready to let go of.
Features Besides its deceptively simple press-down mechanism, the Fingerbot boasts these features:
High Compatibility: Works with 98% of all existing buttons and switches. Voice Control: Use Google Home, Siri, and Alexa to activate the Fingerbot.
People use the Fingerbot primarily to automate
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Dennis & Lisa Jones
Take a Break
PHOENIX HOSTS THE NCAA FINALS A CITY UNITED BY BASKETBALL
As the fervor of March Madness takes center stage in Phoenix this year, I am reminded of the electrifying blend of anticipation and nostalgia that accompanies this storied tournament. March Madness is not merely a basketball tournament; this event is the NCAA basketball championship, celebrated for the intense competition and rich tapestry of school spirit woven across the nation. This year, the spectacle of the Final Four and the championship game unfolds in Phoenix, at the State Farm Stadium on April 6 and 8, which fills me with immense pride and excitement. The city of Phoenix, no stranger to hosting grand events, now is at the heart of college basketball’s pinnacle moments. For someone like me, a proud Jayhawk who graduated from The University of Kansas, the tournament holds a special significance. I had the privilege of attending KU when Danny Manning led us to the national championship in 1988. Those memories of triumph and unity under the banner of our beloved Jayhawks are etched in my heart. Now, as Phoenix prepares to welcome the nation’s top teams and their passionate followers, I am caught in a dilemma: Do I experience the exhilarating atmosphere of State Farm Stadium or relish the games from the comfort of home? The idea of being part of the live crowd, feeling the collective pulse of thousands of fans, is incredibly tempting. But the appeal of a tranquil viewing experience, away from the madness, holds its own charm. Friends and fellow enthusiasts often ask to see my brackets. With a twinkle in my eye and an unwavering faith in my alma mater, I hint at the possibility of the Jayhawks clinching the title once more. After all, March Madness is a time of unpredictability and dreams, where legends are born and history is written. Regardless of the outcome or where I choose to watch, my allegiance to the game and the basketball community it fosters remains steadfast. March Madness in Phoenix is a celebration of more than just basketball; the tournament is a testament to the bonds we share as fans, the stories of perseverance and achievement, and the undying spirit of competition that defines this glorious event.
AQUARIUS BICYCLE DREAM EQUALITY
FESTIVAL GROUNDHOG KING LINCOLN
MUFFIN PANCAKE RABBIT ROSES
As we eagerly await the tournament, let us immerse ourselves in the madness with open hearts. Let us cheer, dream, and revel in the joy of basketball, united by our love for the game and the memories we create along this incredible journey.
–Lisa Jones
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Inside
PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
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The Heart of Our Business: Celebrating You
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Enjoying the Empty Nest
Lisa & Dennis Jones
Watch ‘The American Dream TV’ on Streaming Services
3668 W. Anthem Way, Ste. B-158 • Anthem, AZ 85086 602-677-4130 • DLJonesHomes.com
Baked Asparagus Dip
Exploring Sintra, Portugal
Bring Color and Joy to Your Garden
Now Is a Great Time to Buy!
Transform Your Home With 7 Decluttering Rules Discover the Healing Wonders of Hot Springs
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Automate Any Button With This Device
Feel the Fever of March Madness in Phoenix
Take a Break
Embrace Your Sleep Cycle
Tune Into Your Body’s Clock Unlocking the Secrets of Natural Rest
When we lie down and settle into sleep, our brain starts descending from the conscious realm into the soothing arms of slumber. As you drift off, your brain activity decelerates, your body temperature dips, and muscles relax. This phase, known as light sleep, makes up about half of our total sleep time. As the night progresses, we enter the deep sleep stage. Here, our body’s muscle tone and heartbeat find their calmest rhythm while the brain’s activity shifts to delta waves. It is like a restorative elixir flowing through you, bolstering your immune system and mending the day’s wear and tear. Deep sleep is pivotal in cementing memories and contributes to creativity and insightful thinking. Then, we enter the famous REM sleep, when our brain activity escalates. It is the stage responsible for our most vivid dreams and a fountain of learning and creativity. To enter REM sleep, we must be asleep for at least 90 minutes to cycle through light to deep sleep. Once we are in it, REM can last for about 90 minutes.
stage we are in, so it may wake us when we are in the deep sleep stage. Being abruptly awoken in this state leaves us disoriented and groggy. It creates sleep inertia, an uncomfortable stage that can put us in a bad mood when we first wake up.
Our bodies are not designed to wake up during deep sleep. Cortisol, our natural energy hormone, is like a slow-release pill crafted by nature. Levels decrease as we get ready to go to bed and rise when it is time to wake up. If the alarm disrupts the natural sleep cycle, waking us before the cortisol surge, we feel out of sorts. Our brains and bodies are designed to balance our well-being. When we respect its natural rhythms, we enhance our mood, boost our cognitive abilities, and nurture our overall health. Every night is a new opportunity to reconnect with your body’s innate wisdom and wake up to a more vibrant and harmonious life. So tonight, when you lay your head on the pillow, listen to the whisper of your internal clock and embrace your natural sleep patterns. Sweet dreams and sweeter morning awakenings are ahead if you do.
If we wake up naturally from the light sleep stage, we feel refreshed and rejuvenated. A clock alarm, though, doesn’t know which sleep
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