Published by Estrella Publishing LLC, PO Box 6962, Goodyear AZ 85338. Additional copies and article reproductions can be obtained for a fee by contacting info@EstrellaPublishing. com Catherine Uretsky, Publisher and Editor Talia Uretsky, Assistant Editor Al Uretsky, Publisher and Sales Executive 623.398.5541 info@EstrellaPublishing.com
Have you ever left the house, then a few minutes later gone back to check that you did indeed turn the stove off, or tried the door handle to make sure it was locked? I know I have, and I am sure many of you have too. I recently read about an extreme case where the person who was afflicted with this particular obsession had devised an ingenious solution. She videoed herself doing all the tasks that she completed in the morning before leaving the house. That way, when her brain tried to convince her that the stove was still on, or the dog had not been fed, she was able to look at the recording and calm her nerves. Now I am not saying that we should go to that extreme, but it is an elegant solution.
We all build rituals into our lives, not usually as a response to a compulsion, but they do help us get through the day, nevertheless. Every morning, I make a cup of coffee and take it into the garden where my manic dog plays fetch with a tennis ball until he is out of breath and ready to start his daily round of napping and trying to eat everything in the house. It is a nice way to wake up and get
my day started. Some rituals are ingrained in us during childhood, sometimes we develop them as we age. I usually have a yearning for a cup of tea and a cookie around 3pm, a result of my English upbringing no doubt. It brings me comfort, and as I sip my tea, I reflect on those who introduced me to this daily habit. It connects me to my heritage in a way that is soothing and grounding.
Some rituals are life-affirming, and some are a way to maintain a connection with those we love, making the trek to Aunt Sally’s house for Thanksgiving dinner for example, or dragging yourself to a monthly Bunco with your besties, no matter how much you would rather be curled up watching a TV show at home. These things are valuable and necessary, and we should honor and cherish all the things that help to get us through the day.
I hope everyone has cleared their schedule because the 2024 Summer Olympic Games have commenced! There’s an event for everyone in the family to enjoy; from Gymnastics and Swimming to Skateboarding and Breaking. This summer we’ll see 10,500 athletes from 206 countries compete in 329 events across 32 sports in.
Yet, the Olympics we know and love today weren’t always the same. The first Olympic Games took place in 776 BC in Athens, Greece and began as part of a religious Greek festival honoring Zeus. The first recorded Olympic Games in 776 BC featured only one event: a 192-meter foot race called the stadion. All free Greek males were allowed to take part, from farm hands to royal heirs, although the majority of Olympians were soldiers. Women could not compete or even attend.
In 393 AD, the Olympic Games were canceled by Emperor Theodosius I, a Roman ruler and Christian. He banned the Greek Olympics as he considered it a pagan festival, due to the religious element of the celebration. So, that was the end of the Olympics until 1896, when Baron Pierre de Coubertin adapted the Games. He called this new event the ‘Modern
Olympics’ - which became the specatcle we know today.
From 1921-1948, artists also participated in the Olympics - painters, sculptors, architects, writers, and musicians took part in the games! They competed for medals by creating works of art that often celebrated the sporting successes going on at that time. While artists stopped officially competing in 1948, many still design posters and other merchandise for the Games.
The Olympic Games are arguably the biggest and most prestigious sporting event on earth. And while competitive spirit is important, the Modern Olympic Games aren’t just for our entertainment and about athletes competing for their country and gaining medals while setting records. The International Olympic Committee was founded on the belief that sports can contribute to peace and the harmonious development of humankind. The Olympic Movement continues to use sports to contribute to building a peaceful and better world by educating youth through sports practice without discrimination of any kind, and in the Olympic spirit, which requires mutual understanding with a spirit of friendship, solidarity, and fair play.
Eating Well
Eating healthily on a budget
As temperatures soar and wallets shrink, maintaining a healthy diet can seem like a daunting task but with some creativity and planning, you can eat nutritiously without breaking the bank or sweating over a hot stove.
Embrace no-cook meals
When it is too tiring to cook, turn to refreshing nocook options. Try overnight oats for breakfast, loaded with fruits or nuts. For lunch and dinner, experiment with hearty salads, veggie-packed wraps, or cold sandwiches. These options are not only cool but quick to prepare.
Frozen is your friend
Do not underestimate the power of frozen fruits and vegetables. They are often cheaper than fresh, they last longer, and retain most of their nutrients. Use frozen berries in smoothies or frozen veggies for quick stirfries for that nutritious boost.
Hydrate!
Stay hydrated without resorting to expensive, sugary drinks. Infuse water with sliced cucumbers, citrus fruits, or herbs for a refreshing twist.
Bulk up on staples
Buy nonperishable staples like rice, beans, and pasta in bulk. These items are cheap, versatile, and can form the base of many meals. Combine them with seasonal vegetables for balanced, affordable dishes.
Seasonal and local produce
Take advantage of Arizona’s local produce. Visit farmer’s markets or join a community supported agriculture (CSA) program for fresh, affordable fruits and vegetables. In August, look for deals on melons, tomatoes, and peppers.
Meal prep and portion control
Dedicate a few hours each week to meal prep. Cook larger batches and portion them out for the week. This not only saves money but also helps control portions and reduces the temptation for unhealthy snacking.
Snack smart
Keep healthy, budget friendly snacks on hand. Think carrots and hummus, apple slices with peanut butter, or homemade trail mix. These options are nutritious and can help curb cravings for expensive, processed snacks.
Invest in basic kitchen tools
A few key items like a blender, microwave safe containers, and a good knife can expand your cooking options without needing a full kitchen.
Eating healthily on a budget is all about planning, creativity, and making the most of what is available. With these tips, you can nourish your body and mind without emptying your wallet, even during the hottest months of the year.
Stay cool and eat well!
Teacher’s Notes
As the beginning of the school year approaches, many parents wonder what they can do to prepare their little one(s) before entering Kindergarten. There are many things that can be done to prepare for this big change, however there are 2 things that come to mind that would be greatly appreciated.
1. Being able to sit in a seat for a specific amount of time can be quite a challenge, especially during lunch. Practicing the ability to eat their lunch and remaining in a specific seat for approximately 25 minutes doesn’t seem like much but can be difficult for children. I know that lunchtime will be full of excitement and many distractions that can distract a child from the task at hand, but when a child does not eat an adequate amount of food, a majority of the time resulting in classroom behaviors caused by being ‘hangry’. Hangry is a term referring to the feelings of being angry due to hunger. When a child gets ‘hangry’ it can cause a disruption to their environment and damper their learning ability.
Why not provide a snack when the child appears ‘hangry’? This is not always feasible as there may not be a designated time during the day allotted for snacks as this depends on the school/district policy and/or
the teacher’s policy. There is quite a lot that teachers are expected to get through in a single school day, and there might not always be time allocated for snacks.
There might not be food available during the school day unless purchased by the teacher or donated to the classroom by a parent/guardian. (If you want to contribute to this, PLEASE check with the teacher and school to confirm any/all policies in regards to this as it is different for each school.)
2. Good sportsmanship is also important! Being able to interact and play nicely with others can make any experience more enjoyable. You don’t always need to be the first one to the finish line to win. In my classroom I have this mantra with the students: As long as you had fun, you are always a winner!
Mastering these two things will go a long way towards helping your child succeed this year and making it a good one for you both.
Out & About
Navigating the Seas of Cruise Booking: 4 Essential Tips
Embarking on a cruise can be an exciting and relaxing way to explore new destinations. However, the process of booking a cruise can sometimes feel overwhelming. With countless options for itineraries, ships, and amenities, how do you ensure you’re making the best choice? Here are five essential tips to help you navigate the waters of cruise booking and set sail on your dream vacation.
1. Time Your Booking Strategically
The timing of your cruise booking can significantly impact the price and availability. Generally, booking well in advance (6-12 months) or at the last minute (1-2 months before departure) can offer the best deals. Early bookers enjoy perks like cabin upgrades or onboard credit, while last-minute bookers might snag deeply discounted fares. However, if you have specific preferences for cabin type or location, booking early is
your best bet to secure exactly what you want.
2. Research and Compare Cruise Lines
Each cruise line has its own personality, target audience, and specialties. Research different cruise lines to find one that aligns with your travel style and expectations. Read reviews from past cruisers and compare amenities, dining options, and onboard activities to ensure you’re choosing a ship that suits your preferences.
3. Consider the Itinerary Carefully
While the ship itself is important, don’t overlook the ports of call. Consider how much time you’ll spend at each destination and what activities are available. Some cruises offer longer port stays or overnight stops, allowing for more in-depth exploration. Also, pay attention to the number of sea days – if you love onboard activities, more sea days might be appealing, but if you’re eager to explore multiple destinations, look for itineraries with more frequent stops.
4. Understand the True Cost
The advertised cruise fare is rarely the final price you’ll pay. Factor in additional costs such as gratuities, alcoholic beverages, specialty dining, shore excursions, and Wi-Fi. Many cruise lines offer beverage packages or all-inclusive options that can provide better value if you plan to indulge. Always read the fine print and calculate the total cost before booking to avoid surprises and ensure the cruise fits your budget.
By following these tips, you’ll be well-equipped to book a cruise that meets your expectations and provides the vacation experience you’re seeking. Happy sailing!
Cook With Zona
Brownie Batter Protein Balls
Hello again, I wanted to say I appreciate everyone who has been reading and recreating my recipes! I am truly feeling the love from these communities! Regarding last month’s Chicken Pot Pie Noodle Skillet recipe I apologize for leaving out the measurements for the egg noodles. For all previous recipes you can visit the recipes page on Estrella Publishing’s website.
If you can’t tell by now, I am nuts about any and all things chocolate. Chocolate cake, chocolate ice cream, chocolate milk, chocolate bars, you name it! When I was a child my mother used to make me chocolate cake for breakfast. Granted, now that I think about it, probably not the most nutritious breakfast for a 13 year old, but hey look at me now! Totally fine, I only have a slight chocolate addiction, and it made me love my mother even more than I thought was ever possible! My son developed a peanut intolerance when he was 4 years old, so most dishes I make I stray away from peanut butter, and these Brownie Batter Protein Balls are amazing! If you prefer peanut butter and regular milk you can absolutely sub those in at no measurement change.
If you have any recipes you’d like to share with me I would love to try them out! Email me at ArizonaCooks71@gmail.com.
Prep time: 10 mins | Cool Down Time: 15 mins |
Total time: 25 mins
Ingredients
1 ¼ cup almond flour (or all purpose flour)
¼ cup cocoa powder
¾ cup almond butter (or peanut butter)
½ cup chocolate protein powder (protein of choice)
¼ cup maple syrup (or honey or agave)
¼ cup almond milk (or milk of choice)
¼ cup chocolate chips
Steps
• Line a tray with parchment paper.
• Mix together the almond flour, cocoa powder, almond butter, chocolate protein powder, maple syrup, and almond milk with a hand mixer or just arm muscle until a play dough like consistency forms.
• Add in the chopped chocolate chunks and mix till evenly incorporated. Use a spoon or cookie scoop to form 16-20 1.5”-2” balls. Place them on the prepared tray and freeze for 15 minutes.
• Transfer to an airtight container and store in the fridge or freezer.
Enjoy!
We love to see our neighbors’ delicious creations, so send us a picture of your Brownie Batter Protein Balls or tag us on social media @EstrellaPublishing.
Making wishes come true for women in the Valley undergoing cancer treatment.
Date: November 2nd, 2024
Time: 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Location: Heritage Swim ParK
Featuring Music by TJ Rifkin and Band! Green Pepper Catering! Silent Auction | Live Auction | Raf e TO BECOME A SPONSOR
Contac t: Laura@ebeauty.com
Registration will begin September 1st | $75 per person For more information: www ebeautycommunity org
Legal Advice
BENEFICIARY DEED: BETTER THAN PROBATE
If you want one or two adult to receive your home or real estate upon your death, a Beneficiary Deed is an effective, inexpensive way to avoid probate. A Beneficiary Deed is basically a “pay on death designation” for real property.
The Beneficiary Deed is fully revocable. The owner retains control of the property. There is no need to consult the beneficiaries upon sale or be concerned about the beneficiaries’ creditors. This is not the case when the property is owned as joint tenants with right of survivorship.
The Beneficiary Deed is a great tool for people who have all other assets in accounts which have beneficiary designations of some type. The Beneficiary Deed is not a good tool if you want to leave your
real property to more than two people, to minors or to adults with special needs receiving government assistance. In those instances, a trust is the best nonstress way to avoid probate
Sharon Ravenscroft, M. Scott Rowan, Attorneys, The Cavanagh Law Firm, PA, Sun City and Phoenix offices, (623) 815-7451 or Sravenscroft@ CavanaghLaw.com; legal practice focused on Wills, trusts, probate and trust administration. For more information www.sharonravenscroft.com.
College Costs
Savvy Student Savings
As the scorching Arizona summer winds down, it is time to gear up for another school semester. But let us face it, college life can be expensive. Fear not, parents of future college students! This guide will help you navigate back to campus shopping without breaking the bank.
Textbooks: The ultimate money pit
First up, textbooks. Before going to the campus bookstore, check online marketplaces like Amazon, Chegg, or Abe Books for used copies. Even better, see if your university library has them. Pro tip: Some professors put copies on reserve in the library, so your kid can use them for free.
Tech on a Budget
While that shiny new laptop is tempting, consider refurbished models from certified sellers. They are
often just as good and come with warranties. For software, do not forget to use your student email for discounts on everything (yes, everything).
Dorm essentials: Thrift and collaborate
Thrift stores are goldmines for dorm decorations. Go to your local consignment shops for unique finds. For bigger items like mini-fridges or microwaves, team up with your roommate to split the cost. Alternatively, most dormitories have communal kitchens, so you may not even need your own appliances.
School supplies: Timing Timing Timing
I do not recommend buying things such as notebooks and pens until you arrive on campus. Local stores usually have back to school sales and attending your school’s welcome week could score you some freebies
Clothing: Quality over Quantity
Instead of getting an overhaul on your wardrobe, focus on pieces that can provide versatility by mixing and matching. You could look for end of summer sales at outlet stores or you could go to 3rd party sellers online.
Food and meal prep
Let me be the first to warn you not to become a victim of fast-food alternatives, they are not healthy and with rising inflation, you will be spending more than you think. If you live off campus, bulk shopping at Sam’s club or Costco can save you money long term - if you enjoy eating what you purchase. Invest in some tupperware and plan your meals in advance to avoid costly impulse food purchases.
Remember, being budget conscious does not mean missing out. It is about being smart with your resources and prioritizing what really matters. By following these tips, you will be well prepared for the semester ahead without the added stress of an empty wallet. Happy shopping. And here is to a great academic year!
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
