From Me To You...
In the age of Instagram-or-it-didn’t-happen, I’ve become an accidental photographic rebel. Picture this (pun absolutely intended): I’ve just returned from a trip with a grand total of five photographs. FIVE. In a world where most travelers return home with enough digital memories to crash a cloud storage server, I’m looking at a collection that would make Marie Kondo weep with joy.
I realize that may seem tragic to some of you but I like to think that I was so present and engaged during my holiday that pictures were not necessary. Not once did I interrupt the moment to ensure my followers get visual proof of my adventures. Of course it could have been the fact that my friend of over 25 years and I were gabbing away so much we didn’t have time to stop and snap a memento.
I am not the first in my family to follow this path. There was a famous (in our family) holiday we took to France when I was a teenager. We spent a month driving to famous sites, traipsing around countless cathedrals, and soaking up all the culture you could want as a bored 14 year old. Only to find that my Dad
“I thought I got a lot of value in that roll!” he is quoted as saying when he discovered the problem, turning a potential photographic disaster into a legendary family joke. We’ve been laughing about it for years - a memory far more vivid than any perfectly staged vacation snapshot.
If I have trouble picturing my recent holiday all I have to do is think of the sunburn I got on my shoulders. My mind is flooded with memories of an afternoon spent laughing and enjoying myself so much that I forgot to reapply my sunscreen.
So here’s to the unphotographed adventures, the memories stored in our hearts rather than our camera rolls. Sometimes, the best vacation souvenirs are the stories we’ll tell - not the pictures we’ll scroll through.
Catherine Uretsky Editor, Mountain View Magazine info@estrellapublishing.com
623.398.5541
On Our Cover
This month’s cover features Trilogy resident Robert D. Thompson, a triathlete and competitive swimmer. In May of 2022 Robert competed in the National Senior Games in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, specifically in the Sprint Triathlon and the 5- and 10-kilometer time trial cycling events. In June of the same year, he represented the United States at the Triathlon World Championships in Montreal, Canada.
Robert was born and raised in Mountain View, California. He ran cross country in high school and attended the University of Colorado in Boulder to continue running but even more importantly, to pursue his lifelong passion for skiing. Robert was a member of the CU Cross Country Ski Team which won the NCAA Championship four years in a row. His love for running continued after college while living in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and competing in local races including five Pike’s Peak Marathons.
One non-cycling Saturday morning Robert wandered into the Trilogy lap pool and ran into coach Fred Crawford, who invited him to join the Trilogy Swim Team. The rest is history. It was time to start running again and add triathlon to the competitive racing schedule. A national draft legal triathlon was being held in October 2019 in Tempe, Arizona in which Robert competed against Team USA members. That race experience motivated him to try to qualify for Team USA and get his name on a uniform.
He originally had planned to retire in Breckenridge CO after 32 years as an investment advisor and continue teaching skiing and snowboarding for Vail Associates. However, after spring break family visits to Arizona; Robert and his wife Kim began to explore the active-adult Trilogy lifestyle. Beginning in 2017 they split their time between the mountains and the desert, trading in skis for winter bicycling.
Robert joined the Trilogy Bike Club and rapidly worked his way up to the A+ group rides. Competing for the first time as a senior citizen, he raced in the Arizona Senior Games and later that year in the Wyoming Senior Games and qualified for all 4 cycling events at the 2019 National Champion Senior Games in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Robert’s plans were put on hold on the morning of January 20, 2021. While riding in the bike lane with two members of the bike club on North El Mirage Road, he was struck from behind by an impaired driver, speeding at 60 miles per hour. Robert flew 100 feet in the air from the impact lay unconscious face down in the gravel. The driver sped away with two flat tires and a broken passenger-side mirror. Transported by ambulance to Banner Thunderbird trauma center, doctors began to address the following injuries: an open fracture left toe, fractured left ankle, fibula leg fracture, sacrum, sternum, and ribs fractured. The most serious injury was a burst L3 vertebra requiring surgery to place screws and rods to fuse the lower spine. Additionally, a C1 skull fracture required a cervical neck brace to accompany the hard turtle shell back brace for the next six weeks. After 7 days flat on his back staring at the ceiling Robert was transferred to Banner Rehabilitation Hospital West. Because of Covid-19 restrictions, this was the first time he was able to see his wife since the accident and only for a few minutes.
The long road to recovery began with a few steps. Confined to a wheel chair the process to learn to walk again started with leg exercises and balancing. To be able to come back and race triathlon again was the motivation to push hard in daily rehab sessions. Robert was often told by his therapist to slow down, “this is rehab not training.”
Not content to lie around in the evenings, Robert used the empty hallway outside his room to race his wheelchair from one end to the other, much to the chagrin and cautions from the night nurses, trying for a faster time each lap.
Release from in-patient rehab required successful navigation of steps, curbs walking outside around the hospital learning how to get in and out of an automobile.
Finally after 19 days of rehab, on Valentines Day, Robert was released and greeted by his wife, son, and grandson to return home but continue rehabilitation. The support of family, friends, Trilogy Bike Club, Swim Club, Cigar Club all contributed to the recovery and healing process both physically and emotionally. A surprise parade gathering of these friends was even held outside Robert’s home and was the first time to see everyone and give a testimony to God’s grace and healing power.
Medically the goal for successful rehabilitation is the ability to return to the activities of daily living “ADL” Robert’s motivation was different, a return to competition! Physical Therapy was the next step in the recovery process; 3 days of exercises, 2 days recovery, 2 days walk on own. Treatments included, massage, cupping, dry needling, electrical TENS for muscle simulation, leg compression recovery and red- light therapy. His favorite equipment at therapy was the ALTER G treadmill. This treadmill allowed Robert to start running with only 20% of body weight while being supported by an air bag. A goal was set to be able to at least run, swim, and bike before leaving Arizona and returning to Colorado for the summer.
Rehabilitation continued in Colorado Springs at the University of Colorado Sports and Performance Center. Working with therapist and sports trainers 5 days a week, a new goal was set; return to Arizona and
race in the Anthem Reverse Sprint Triathlon August 27, 2021. Not only was Robert able to meet that goal but he placed 3rd in his age group 65-69. The fall of 2021 brought on more races and a return to the same draft legal National Championship triathlon in Tempe. The finish time was good enough to qualify for Team USA and meet that goal set two years earlier.
So, what has Robert learned from this experience? “Never judge someone else’s performance, you don’t know what their background is.”
His advice to other senior athletes, “Have a goal, sign up for a race.” His attitude towards competing in his new age group 70-74: “Pinning on a number and showing up at the starting line is a win!” Remember, a little exercise each day is better than doing nothing.
Green Thumb
January in Arizona presents unique gardening opportunities, balancing the state’s mild winter with strategic preparation for the upcoming growing season. Unlike many regions, Arizona gardeners can actively work in their landscapes during this cooler month, making it an ideal time for planning and selective planting.
Now is the perfect time to plant leafy greens like kale, spinach, lettuce, and Swiss chard. Root vegetables including carrots, radishes, and beets also do exceptionally well. These crops appreciate the cooler temperatures and can withstand light frost, making them resilient choices for winter gardening. Start seeds indoors for warm-season crops like tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants.
Deciduous fruit trees like apples, peaches, and plums are dormant, making January the optimal time for pruning. Use clean, sharp pruning tools to remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches, focusing on
creating an open canopy that allows sunlight and air circulation. This strategic pruning promotes healthy growth and increases future fruit production. Citrus trees demand special winter care. Protect younger trees from potential frost by covering them when temperatures dip below 32°F.
Remove dead annuals, trim back perennials, and prepare beds for spring planting. Consider adding winter-blooming plants like cyclamen or primrose to add color to your landscape. Native plants like brittlebush, desert marigold, and various cacti require minimal maintenance during this time. These plants have adapted to Arizona’s unique climate and can withstand winter conditions with little intervention.
Remember, Arizona’s microclimates vary significantly. Local elevation and specific location can dramatically impact gardening strategies, so always consult local extension services for hyper-local advice.
Be Prepared
Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy or elderly—it’s a critical financial responsibility that everyone should consider, regardless of age or income level. The key is to approach estate planning as a dynamic process that evolves with your life circumstances.
In Your 20s and 30s:
This is the foundation stage of estate planning. While you might feel invincible, creating basic legal documents is crucial. Start with a simple will that outlines how you want your assets distributed. If you have dependent children, this becomes even more critical. Designate a guardian and create provisions for their care and financial support.
Create a basic healthcare proxy and living will. These documents ensure your medical wishes are respected if you’re unable to communicate. Designate a trusted family member or friend to make medical decisions on your behalf. Additionally, consider basic life insurance, especially if you have dependents or significant debt that could burden your family.
In Your 40s and 50s:
As your financial complexity increases, so should your estate planning sophistication. Review and update your will regularly. Consider establishing a trust to provide more controlled asset distribution and potential tax benefits. This is particularly important if you have children with special needs or want to create specific provisions for inheritance.
Retirement planning becomes critical. Maximize contributions to retirement accounts and ensure beneficiary designations are current. Review life insurance policies to ensure coverage matches your family’s potential financial needs. Consider long-term care insurance as a proactive measure.
In Your 60s and Beyond:
Estate planning transitions from accumulation to preservation and distribution. Work with a financial advisor to minimize tax implications for your heirs. Consider strategies like gifting to reduce estate tax
liability. Update your will and trusts to reflect current family dynamics and financial situation.
Comprehensive End-of-Life Planning:
Regardless of age, create a comprehensive document that includes:
- Detailed will
- Healthcare proxy
- Power of attorney
- List of important financial accounts
- Digital asset instructions
- Funeral and burial preferences
Key Principles for All Ages:
- Review documents every 3-5 years
- Update after major life events
- Communicate your plans with key family members
- Keep important documents accessible
- Consider digital asset management
Estate planning is an act of love and responsibility. It provides peace of mind and protects your loved ones from unnecessary financial and legal complications during difficult times.
I Resolve To...
In the realm of personal growth, sensible resolutions are the unsung heroes of self-improvement. The key is to approach personal development with wisdom, patience, and a genuine commitment to sustainable change.
A truly sensible resolution begins with honest selfassessment. Instead of declaring dramatic, sweeping transformations, focus on modest, achievable objectives that align with your current lifestyle and capabilities. For instance, rather than vowing to become a marathon runner overnight, consider setting a goal of increasing your daily physical activity by taking a 15-minute walk or choosing stairs over elevators.
Financial sensibility is another critical area for meaningful resolutions. Instead of promising to save an unrealistic amount of money, start with something more attainable. Perhaps commit to saving a small, consistent percentage of your income each month or creating a simple budget that tracks your spending.
Health-related resolutions benefit immensely from a measured approach. Rather than eliminating entire food groups or committing to an extreme diet, focus on incremental nutritional improvements. This might mean adding one extra serving of vegetables to your daily meals, drinking more water, or introducing moderate portion control. Mental health is equally important—consider dedicating just ten minutes each day to mindfulness, meditation, or simply unplugging from digital devices.
Professional growth requires a strategic mindset. Instead of setting impossibly broad goals like “get a promotion,” break down your career aspirations into specific, actionable steps. This could involve learning one new skill, networking with one professional contact monthly, or dedicating an hour each week to professional development reading or online courses.
Relationship resolutions should prioritize quality over quantity. Rather than making sweeping promises,
focus on small, meaningful improvements. This might mean being more present during conversations, expressing gratitude more frequently, or setting aside dedicated time for meaningful connections with family and friends.
The most sensible resolutions share common characteristics: they are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). They acknowledge human limitations while still encouraging personal growth. They recognize that change is a journey, not a sudden transformation.
Ultimately, sensible resolutions are about creating lasting habits, not achieving perfection. They embrace the understanding that small, consistent steps lead to significant long-term changes. By setting realistic expectations and approaching personal growth with compassion and patience, we can actually achieve meaningful progress.
The beauty of sensible resolutions lies in their simplicity—they respect our humanity while gently nudging us toward becoming slightly better versions of ourselves.
Cook With Zona
Loaded Potato Soup
With the weather getting… slightly cooler I decided it’s officially time to start making soups and stew!
A fan favorite soup in our house is Loaded Potato Soup. How can you go wrong with potatoes, bacon, cheese, and garlic? Whether you’re curled up at home or hosting a cozy dinner, this soup recipe will surely become one of your favorites too! If you have a recipe you’d like to share with your community email me at ArizonaCooks71@gmail.com to be featured in the magazine!
Prep time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 40 mins | Total time: 55 mins
Ingredients
6 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
16 oz bacon, bite-sized pieces
4 Tbsp unsalted butter
1 med onion, finely chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced ¼ cup all-purpose flour
2 1/2 cups whole milk
2 1/2 cups chicken broth
1 cup mild or sharp cheddar cheese, shredded ¾ cup sour cream green onions, to serve
Salt and pepper, to taste
Steps
1. Place sliced potatoes into a stockpot and completely cover with 1” of water. Season with ½ tsp salt and cook 10-15 minutes or until potatoes pierce easily with a knife then drain.
2. Meanwhile, saute bacon in a Dutch oven until crispy and then transfer to a plate, reserving 1 Tbsp bacon grease in the pot.
3. Add 4 Tbsp butter and chopped onions then saute until tender. Add garlic and cook another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Quickly whisk in the flour then slowly add 2 1/2 cups milk and 2 1/2 cups broth, whisking constantly. Bring the mixture to a soft boil.
5. Add drained potatoes and season soup with 1 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp pepper or season to taste.
6. Stir in 3/4 cup sour cream, 1 cup shredded cheddar, and half of your cooked bacon (reserving the rest for serving). Bring to a boil, remove from heat, and serve with your favorite toppings.
Enjoy!
Puzzle Time
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. Solutions are on our website www.EstrellaPublishing.com Difficulty: Easy
Nuñez
Vintage
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