The Hamlet

Catherine Uretsky, Publisher and Editor

623.398.5541 info@EstrellaPublishing.com

Al Uretsky, Publisher and Sales Executive

623.398.5541 info@EstrellaPublishing.com

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From Me To You...

I am planning a getaway for a few days up to the cooler air in the mountains and honestly I can’t wait. There is something about putting yourself in a different place that reenergizes and restores the mind. I recall holidays when the children were young - times that were anything but relaxing - we all felt like we got to start fresh when we straggled back into our house, tired but refreshed.

In today’s fast-paced world, where we often find ourselves caught up in hectic routines and demanding schedules, it’s easy to overlook the significance of taking a break. When we engage in the same activities day in and day out, our minds can become stagnant, and monotony can set in. This lack of stimulation can lead to decreased productivity, creativity, and motivation. However, introducing change into our lives, whether it’s trying a new hobby,

exploring a different location, or even altering our daily routine, can provide us with a fresh perspective and reinvigorate our enthusiasm.

Change also allows us to break free from our comfort zones and challenge ourselves. It encourages personal growth, as we learn to adapt to new situations and develop new skills. Stepping outside of our familiar environment and embracing change opens up doors to new experiences and opportunities, expanding our horizons and broadening our knowledge.

By taking a break from our usual routines and engaging in new experiences, we can gain a renewed sense of energy and enthusiasm for life. Trying new things together with friends, family, or even strangers can foster bonding and create shared memories. It encourages us to connect with others, exchange ideas, and build meaningful connections, ultimately enriching our social lives. Even if you cant get away, you should try incorporating change into your routine this summer. It may lead to a more fulfilling and balanced life and as they say, “a change is as good as a rest.”

Catherine Uretsky Editor, Estrella Publishing info@estrellapublishing.com

Perception is Reality

Each person’s perception is that person’s reality. That’s what makes the world go ’round. This can be problematic, though, if that perception contradicts another’s with whom we have to interact.

Working with couples, I’m often astounded by how two perceptions of the same event can be so different. Each person’s perception is based on their interpretation vs. entirely grounded in a given reality. I always say that there are at least three sides to every story: yours, mine and the truth–the last of which is usually found somewhere in the middle!

Feelings aren’t right or wrong, but the thoughts that come from them are another matter entirely. They can get us into trouble via the generation of assumptions and other bad choices. How we see a given situation or event is open to interpretation. How we respond is within our control, and our responses are often characterdefining moments. The goal is to see things as clearly as possible, with a balance of rational

thought and emotion.

Sometimes, we may struggle to see things clearly. The lens through which each person sees is colored by their past events and experiences. Lenses come in 3 colors: clear, rose-colored and gray. Clear is the most accurate color, and the other two can result in bad decisions based on positive or negative feelings, originating from the skewed thoughts the lenses create. Rose-colored is the color that Polyanna wears, and these lenses can result in naïveté, being taken advantage of and disappointment when unrealistic expectations aren’t met. For example, trusting too early in a relationship, revealing too much of self and having it used against you by an immature or spiteful person. Seeing through gray glasses can result in sadness, lost opportunities and relationship difficulties. If everything is doom and gloom, self-esteem can be affected, which, in turn, affects motivation and can result in depression or at least chronically negative thinking. Early experiences can create gray lenses that cause us to be more sensitive and take things more personally as well.

Tune in next month for how to perfect your perception! Check out free and paid training options at https:// thepsychoeducationacademy. thinkific.com/collections.

Submitted by Jennifer Bellingrodt, Psy.D., Licensed Clinical Psychologist.

DISCLAIMER: Material is for informational purposes and not intended to be a substitute for evaluation or treatment by a licensed professional. Material is copyrighted and may only be reproduced with written permission of Dr. Bellingrodt.

Dad Jokes

* You can’t blame anyone else if you fall in your driveway…it’s your own asphalt.

* I’ve started telling everyone about the benefits of eating dried grapes. It’s all about raisin awareness.

* I’ve started investing in stocks: beef, vegetable, chicken. One day I hope to be a bouillianaire.

* If you boil a funny bone, it becomes a laughing stock. Now that’s humerus.

* I accidentally rubbed ketchup in my eyes. Now I have Heinzsight.

* Did you know muffins spelled backwards is what you do when you take them out of the oven?

* Scientifically, a raven has 17 primary wing feathers, the big ones at the end of the wing. They are called pinion feathers. A crow has 16. So, the difference between a raven and a crow is only a matter of a pinion.

* I was walking in the jungle and saw a lizard on his hind legs telling jokes. I turned to a local tribal leader and said, “That lizard is really funny!” The leader replied, “That’s not a lizard. He’s a stand-up chameleon.

* I tried to come up with a carpentry pun that woodwork. I thought I nailed it but nobody saw it.

* Singing in the shower is fine until you get soap in your mouth. Then it’s a soap opera.

* The Black-Eyed Peas can sing us a song but the chick peas can only hummus one.

* Then there was the time Fruit of the Loom took Hanes to court… it was a brief case.

* How much does a chimney cost? Nothing, it’s on the house.

* My friend said she wouldn’t eat cow’s tongue because it came out of a cow’s mouth. I gave her an egg.

* Ran out of toilet paper and now using lettuce leaves. Today was just the tip of the iceberg, and tomorrow romaines to be seen.

* My friend Jack says he can communicate with vegetables. That’s right...Jack and the beans talk.

* I was struggling to understand how lightning works and then it struck me.

Summer Fun

Summer in Arizona offers a diverse range of activities that cater to various interests and provide opportunities to beat the scorching heat. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, here are some exciting activities that make Arizona an ideal destination for summertime fun.

One of the most popular activities during summer in Arizona is exploring the state’s stunning natural wonders. The Grand Canyon, one of the seven natural wonders of the world, offers breathtaking views and a chance to hike along its trails or take a scenic helicopter ride for a bird’s-eye perspective. Additionally, Sedona’s red rock formations and Oak Creek Canyon provide excellent opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, and exploring the outdoors.

Water activities play a significant role in beating the Arizona heat. The state boasts several beautiful lakes such as Lake Powell, Lake Havasu, and Canyon Lake, where visitors can enjoy boating, jet skiing, fishing, and swimming. For a unique experience, take a dip in the clear waters of Slide Rock State Park, which features natural water slides formed by the smooth red rocks. For more water based fun, head to one of Arizona’s water parks. Golfland Sunsplash in Mesa and Hurricane Harbor in Phoenix offer thrilling water slides, wave pools, lazy rivers, and splash pads, providing a cool respite for all ages.

Arizona’s cultural scene shines during the summer months as well. The Heard Museum in Phoenix showcases the art and culture of Native American tribes through its vast collection of artifacts and exhibits. Visitors can explore traditional pottery, jewelry, and textiles, gaining a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage of the region. Tucson’s Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum combines a zoo, botanical garden, and natural history museum, offering an immersive educational experience.

For those seeking indoor entertainment, Arizona is home to numerous art galleries, theaters, and museums. The Musical Instrument Museum in Phoenix showcases an extensive collection of instruments from around the world, allowing visitors to explore diverse musical cultures. The Phoenix Art Museum and Tucson Museum of Art provide a visual feast for art enthusiasts.

Summer in Arizona means embracing the vibrant festival scene. The city of Flagstaff hosts the Flagstaff Folk Festival, where visitors can enjoy live music performances and workshops. In Tucson, the Arizona International Film Festival showcases independent films from around the globe.

Arizona offers an abundance of summer activities that cater to all interests and age groups. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or a deeper understanding of the region’s heritage, Arizona’s diverse offerings ensure a memorable summer experience.

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The Bug Guy

Ah, summertime in the West Valley of Phoenix. The sun is shining, the birds are singing, and the scorpions and spiders are out in full force. Wait, what? Yes, it’s true. Scorpions and spiders love to come out and play during the summer months, which is why you need pest control to keep them at bay.

Now, I know what you’re thinking. “Why do I need pest control? Can’t I just squish them myself?”

Admittedly, squishing a spider or scorpion is quite satisfying. But did you know that some spiders and scorpions are poisonous? Yup, that’s right. Not only will they give you a fright, but they could also send you to the hospital. I don’t know about you, but I prefer to avoid the ER as much as possible.

“But I don’t see any spiders or scorpions in my home,” you say. Well, that’s because they’re sneaky little devils. They like to hide in dark corners, under furniture, and even inside shoes

(I can’t tell you how many times I’ve put on a shoe only to find a spider waiting for me).

That’s where pest control comes in. With their expert knowledge and specialized equipment, they’ll find those creepy crawlies and get rid of them for good.

Plus, let’s talk about the psychological impact of seeing spiders and scorpions ‘on the reg’. It’s enough to give anyone nightmares. You’ll be jumping at every little movement and checking your bed sheets for stowaways. Save yourself the stress and anxiety by investing in pest control. Your mental health (and sleep schedule) will thank you.

So, in conclusion, if you want to avoid poisonous bites, save yourself the stress of daily spider and scorpion sightings, and protect your home from damage, you need pest control. It’s a no-brainer, really. Don’t let those creepy crawlies take over your summer. Call your local pest control company today and live in peace (and without fear).

Submitted by Larry Cash, of Estrella Mountain Pest Control, Estrella resident

Stay Cool

While a sunny summer is nice, too much of something is never a good thing. Excessive heat can cause dangerous conditions, such as dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Here are some ways to beat the summer heat:

1. Wear natural fabrics, such as a loose-fitting, white cotton or linen shirt. Dark fabrics absorb light more than lighter ones.

2. Replace the salt lost from excessive sweating with lemon water. One squeezed lemon provides 21% of a person’s daily required dose of vitamin C.

3. Remember that foods rich in fat and protein take longer for your body to digest and therefore require additional metabolic heat. Go for salads to help you feel light and hydrated.

4. Use frozen water bottles to cool down your pulse points including behind your ear, at the bottom of your throat, on your wrist, inside your elbow and behind your knee.

5. Apply a moisturizer that contains aloe vera on sunburned skin. Sunburns slow the skin’s ability to cool itself off.

6. Invest in room-darkening curtains to help keep the light and heat out more efficiently.

7. Avoid heat-producing appliances, such as the dryer. Air-dry your clothes instead.

8. Avoid using the oven, try outdoor grilling or use a slow cooker to help keep the heat out

9. Ditch your incandescent lights and make the switch to LED bulbs. LEDs give off cooler lighting, which also means your air conditioner won’t have to run as high during summer.

10. Stay indoors or in an air-conditioned area as much as possible.

With temperatures sky-high this summer, staying hydrated is important whether you’re just sitting in the sun, exercising for recreation or playing sports. If dehydration sets in, you may start to feel tired and dizzy, have muscle cramps or lose consciousness, entirely. Here are some tips to stay ahead of your hydration needs, especially for those who have an active lifestyle:

• Before exercise: Drink 17 to 20 ounces of water within 2 to 3 hours

• During warm-up: Drink 8 ounces of water within 20 to 30 minutes

• During exercise: Drink 7 to 10 ounces of water every 10 to 20 minutes

• After exercise: Drink 8 ounces of water within 30 minutes

Staying cool this summer can be easier than it seems. But if you or someone you know is suffering from heat stroke or dehydration, go to the nearest hospital or call 911. Please do not delay care.

Submitted by Abrazo Health

Puzzles

Did you know that puzzles can improve your overall mental health? Working on jigsaw puzzles can be an effective way to enhance your mental speed, improve short-term and working memory, and promote more positive mood states through the production of dopamine. A solitary or collaborative activity, the act of putting the pieces of a jigsaw puzzle together has many rewards that can benefit your mental wellbeing.

Puzzles Improve Memory - Working on jigsaw puzzles and similar tasks can improve your working and short-term memory as you mentally manipulate the pieces to fit together by size, color, and location, in addition to frequently recalling where pieces go and whether they fit together, or not. Over time, this can enhance your memory as you make puzzling a regular activity.

Puzzles Improve Problem-Solving Skills and Concentration - When we are solving puzzles, we are reinforcing synaptic connections in our brain. Puzzles force us to look at different ways to solve a problem. In this process, we improve our

capacity to come up with hypotheses, test those hypotheses, and adapt our perspective when it does or does not work out. This problem-solving skill can be applied to real life situations and help us think more critically. Furthermore, the act of finding the puzzle pieces that fit together can improve our perceptual abilities and concentration as we focus on what works and what doesn’t.

Puzzles Reduce Stress and Anxiety and Promote

Adaptability - Research indicates that puzzles may be advantageous in delaying symptoms of certain disorders such as Alzheimer’s Disease and dementias. Puzzles stimulate regions of the brain that elicit feelings of accomplishment, connection, and comfort to people, as well as provide a sense of control. These benefits are enhanced when puzzle building is paired with interpersonal interactions, thereby promoting social supports and connectedness; a known protective factor against most physical and mental health conditions. In addition, solving puzzles encourages mindfulness states, which may be beneficial for those who struggle with anxiety, depression, and related symptoms. As you focus on putting the puzzle pieces together, it can redirect you from the anxious thoughts that might otherwise occupy your mind and allow you to gain a sense of control over your mind and internal experience.

Simply put, puzzling is a fun and easy way to improve your overall mental wellbeing. Spending time alone with a puzzle is a great way to unwind and reset from a busy day, and working on a puzzle with others can be a great bonding exercise for everyone. It’s important to note that while doing jigsaw puzzles has many benefits, when combined with a healthy support system and consistent care for your diet, exercise, and sleep schedule, this brain-stimulating activity is even more effective.

Submitted

by Dr.

William Marsh, licensed Clinical Psychologist & Clinical Director Quality Management, Southwest Behavioral & Health Services

Yum Yum

Tortilla Egg Roll-Ups

Ingredients

4 Large Eggs

4 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil

1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

4 whole grain tortillas (6-inch)

Optional mix-ins: finely chopped spinach, tomatoes, bell peppers

Preparation

1. Over medium heat, warm a 6-inch skillet.

2. In small measuring cup, scramble one egg.

3. Add 1 teaspoon of oil to skillet, pour in the egg, and swirl so it covers the bottom of the pan.

4. Sprinkle on 2 tablespoons of cheese and optional mix-ins.

5. Let egg cook about 30 seconds, or until the bottom is cooked, but the top is still a little wet.

6. Press 1 tortilla right on top of the wet egg, and cook another 30 seconds (the egg and tortilla will stick together.)

7. Using a spatula, flip the egg and tortilla over, and cook another 30 seconds until the egg is fully cooked.

8. Remove from pan, let cool slightly, then roll it.

9. Repeat for remaining eggs and tortillas.

10. Eat immediately or store covered in the fridge for up to four days.

You can even make extras to keep in the freezer for up to three months. Using these tips, you’ll be able to throw a crowd-pleasing get-together that your friends and family will be talking about all summer long!

Gift Card Scams

People love gift cards; they’ve been the top requested gift in America for nearly two decades according to the National Retail Federation. But while everyday folks love giving, receiving and using gift cards, unfortunately so do criminals. Just like other payment methods, criminals use intelligent means of stealing money from gift cards - but we have some tips for how to spot them, outsmart the scammers and protect yourself.

Here are our top gift card safety tips:

* Gift cards can only be used at the company on the card. If you get asked to send money or pay for another service with a gift card, STOP and contact law enforcement, even if the fraudster tells you not to talk to anyone or a loved one is in trouble. No real government agency or business will ever reach out and ask you to pay them with gift cards - and you can’t pay taxes or bail money with gift cards.

* Check gift card packaging at the store and make sure the gift card hasn’t been tampered

with. Look for things like ripped or torn packaging or missing scratchoff material over the top of the PIN number. If something doesn’t look right, pick another card and show the questionable card to a store associate.

* When you buy a gift card, keep your activation receipt as proof of your purchase.

* Only buy gift cards from trusted sources. If you’re offered a deal that’s too good to be true, like a big discount on a gift card, it’s likely a scam or you’re getting a fraudulent card.

* Store your gift cards securely and don’t share gift card numbers or PINs with people you don’t know.

If you think you have been scammed or see fraud happening, contact your local law enforcement or the FTC at ftc.gov/complaint or via this tollfree number: 1-877-FTC-HELP. You can also report IRS impersonation scams to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration, visit their website or call 800-366-4484.

More information about how to have amazing gift card experiences is available at GiftCardSafety.org. You can learn more about the gift card industry at www.thergca.org.

Samurai Sudoku

This samurai sudoku puzzle is a great way to engage the brain and help develop logic skills. To solve this Samurai puzzle use standard sudoku rules for every 9x9 grid: each digit from 1 to 9 can only appear once in every row, column and 3x3 box. Good Luck!

Solutions are on our website www.EstrellaPublishing.com