The Park

Published by Estrella Publishing LLC, PO Box 6962, Goodyear AZ 85338. Additional copies can be obtained

Ringing in a New Year brings to mind Father Time, clocks ticking forwards, turning the old year into a new, shiny thing, full of promise. Time is a thing that has changed as I have marched through the years. As a child, summers stretched out towards infinity; long, lazy days spent reading, taking walks along country lanes and of course massive road trips with my family. The school year itself was never-ending but for completely different reasons...

As I became an adult and had children of my own, time warped again. The days were divided into feedings, naps, and the lack of time spent sleeping ourselves. Those days were long, but strangely the months and years flew by.

Once the children were in school I thought there would be more time for me, time to read and pursue hobbies. In actuality the time after drop off was never as long as it had looked on the clock that morning. Before I knew it I was back at the school gates waiting for happy faces running towards me, “Mommy, look what I made, learned, have to make tonight!”

After school activities gobbled up any time that was left before dinners had to be made, baths taken, and sleepy bundles of children were read stories of giants and princesses, and tucked safely in their beds.

Now I find myself marking the time between visits, the giggling, tiny children are grown and flown, and my days are more or less my own. I cherish my free time, and there are many wonderful things I can accomplish now. And yet... in the back of my mind a clock is always ticking, marking time until the day I will have the house full of noisy, whirling dervishes again, demanding meals and attention.

This year I challenge you all to use the time we are given in the best way you can. Whether that means taking time for yourself, or giving time to others, be aware and fill the year with memories you can cherish once Father Time turns our clocks to 2024.

Editor, Estrella Publishing info@estrellapublishing.com 623-398-5541

Catherine Uretsky

Healthy HVAC

How well do you know your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, or HVAC, system? Like any product, you want to keep it in working order, and being HVAC savvy will help you keep this vital equipment working more efficiently regardless of the temperatures outside.

Here are some important aspects of your HVAC system you should know:

The Average Lifespan of HVAC Generally, with proper maintenance most residential HVAC systems have a typical lifespan between 10 to 20 years. For instance, an increase in dust on surfaces in your home could be a signal to replace the furnace filter, which should be done monthly for optimal performance. Loud noises from the HVAC or inconsistent room temperature can also indicate the need for maintenance or an upgrade. Although an HVAC may continue to provide comfort during this timeframe, the average homeowner may still seek to replace an HVAC system during this period for a variety of reasons, such as rising energy bills which could also be a signal that the HVAC is not operating as efficiently as newer models.

State-of-the-art HVAC Technology

While most people are familiar with central HVAC systems, some homeowners might not know about “mini-split” systems. A “mini-split” system, typically ductless, both heats and cools. There is an indoor and outdoor unit; the outdoor unit does most of the work while the indoor unit distributes the heating or cooling. This ductless system allows you to select comfort settings

for each zone or room in your home and then control the temperature, volume, and direction of airflow, all according to your preference. ENERGY STAR certified models are available and, in addition to being more eco-friendly than a traditional HVAC system, can help cut your cooling costs by up to 30 percent.

Know the SEER Rating

The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating of your air conditioner is a measurement of the product’s cooling output in comparison to the total electric energy input. The SEER rating, which can range from 13 to over 30, represents the heat pump cooling and air conditioning efficiency. In general, the higher the rating, the better. For example, your air conditioner should have a SEER rating of at least 14.5 to qualify as an ENERGY STAR product.

Keeping your heating, ventilation, and HVAC equipment well-maintained can have a significant effect on your utility bills and will help you catch small issues before they snowball into financial burdens. Replace the air filter regularly, have a maintenance expert evaluate your system twice a year in the spring and fall, and report any concerns to your HVAC provider between planned visits.

Plan Ahead

We plan ahead for the things in life we look forward to - the birth of a baby, weddings, vacations and holidays. It doesn’t come as naturally to plan for our funeral. It’s easier to avoid the conversation altogether. But, by discussing your personal wishes for your final arrangements, you can protect your loved ones from having to make difficult decisions in a time of immense grief, and potentially ease their financial obligations.

Starting the conversation can be challenging, whether you’re talking about your funeral or asking a loved one how they want to be memorialized. Here are a few suggestions for kicking off the discussion:

* Do you want to be buried or cremated?

* Have I ever told you my favorite scripture?

* If you could write your own eulogy, what would you say?

* Would you prefer a traditional funeral or more contemporary celebration of life?

If you’re still unsure how to broach the subject, The Insider’s Guide to Funeral & Cremation

Planning is a great resource. Following along with the free guide will help you and your loved ones understand the steps of advance funeral planning. Or you can download Imagine, a free booklet that will help you design the one-of-a-kind service you’d like to have at DignityMemorial.com.

Remember that almost any funeral or cremation can be planned in advance, including the venue, catering, mementos and cemetery property, but you might be surprised at all there is to consider. A memorial service is unlike any other event, and, by some estimates, your loved ones could have up to 200 decisions to make in a short timeframe, during the darkest hours of their lives. The most memorable services are planned thoughtfully, with personalized touches that reflect the individual and bring comfort to those in attendance. A funeral director can help you navigate your options and develop a plan for a truly personalized event.

Talking openly about the memorial you envision - and encouraging your loved ones to do the same - removes the guesswork from the planning process, and the focus can stay on honoring a unique life lived and celebrating the moments you and your loved ones cherish.

Furry Friends

Even the most vigilant pet parents have to contend with pet emergencies. Check out some of the most astonishing pet accidents of 2022.

* Digesting something dangerous: A 2-year-old Bichon mix ate a sugar-free apple cobbler made with xylitol. At first, she seemed all right but began vomiting the next day and declined rapidly. When she arrived at the emergency hospital, her prognosis was very poor. However, after eight days of care, she fully recovered!

* Common household concerns: A 9-month-old kitten hid in a large comforter unbeknownst to his pet parent, who had set it to dry on high heat. The kitten was stuck in the dryer for 10 minutes before they heard him yelping for help. They immediately rushed him to the emergency vet, and he was kept at the hospital overnight for observation.

* Lingering liquids: A 2-month-old Shih Tzu puppy was caught by his owners licking some Children’s Motrin that spilled on the couch over nine hours earlier in the day. The puppy seemed fine at first, but then he started to vomit. He was hospitalized and monitored for four days, but the puppy recovered.

* Unfortunate falls: An 8-year-old Pit Bull jumped off a couch and suddenly became paralyzed in her hind end. Her pet parents rushed her to the vet, who diagnosed her with Intervertebral Disc Disease. After receiving surgery to fix her disc herniation, she recovered well.

* Toys that become treacherous: A 7-month-old Standard Poodle was vomiting, lethargic and appeared uncomfortable for two days. A physical exam revealed he was dehydrated, and radiographs showed a foreign object trapped in his stomach. He was transferred to the surgical unit to remove the foreign object, which turned out to be a squeaker toy. He was kept overnight for observation before being sent home to recover with his family.

All of these accidents - while they may seem somewhat crazy - could have happened to any pet owner. To help avoid having an incident like this in 2023:

1. Avoid leaving harmful foods and liquids within your pets’ reach, and watch out for potential choking hazards in your home. This seems simple but can go a long way in protecting your pet for the long-term.

2. Stay active, even in the cold months. Going on frequent walks and encouraging your pet to move around is key to avoiding joint stiffening and can help prevent future mobility issues. This can feel like a challenge during the cold points of the year - for you and your pet - but there are always indoor activities you can play to engage your furry friend.

3. Invest in your pet’s well-being. When accidents happen to your four-legged family member, you’ll want to be covered. A pet insurance policy can help offset some of the costs associated with expensive veterinarian visits.

The Great Outdoors

More than just fresh air, time spent outdoors has the power to boost physical and emotional strength

Whether you’re taking a stroll in a local park or ambitiously hiking a new trail, being outdoors helps you feel more grounded and connected to nature. But you may not realize the numerous physical and mental benefits that time spent outdoors has on the human body.

Mother Nature has a profound positive impact on people of all ages, but especially kids. Children’s natural curiosity makes the outdoors a place with endless possibilities. It’s where imaginations can take flight, they can observe biodiversity and learn more about their world around them, not to mention, move their bodies and breathe in some fresh air.

Here are some outdoor ideas that you can do any time of year with your family:

1. Visit a hiking trail you’ve never been to before, or try an evening hike and bring along a

headlamp or flashlight to guide the way.

2. Explore free outdoor programs in your community at parks and nature centers.

3. Learn about astronomy and head outdoors at night to observe the stars.

4. Try your hand at geocaching, where you use a free app on your mobile device to find hidden spots.

5. Organize a game of backyard flashlight tag with family, friends and neighbors.

6. Try a new outdoor activity you haven’t done yet, especially in the winter months, like skating, snowshoeing or skiing.

7. Go outside and talk about how nature impacts the different senses - How does it feel, taste, sound, etc.?

9. Have a picnic outdoors! Or even try eating outside in the evening with flashlights and headlamps for extra fun.

Down Syndrome

Down Syndrome Myths Debunked

Although experts have made great strides in understanding Down syndrome, there are still many misconceptions about the genetic disorder. Contrary to stereotypes, individuals with Down syndrome attend school, work, have meaningful relationships, vote, make their own decisions and contribute to society in many wonderful ways. Speaking from experience, having lived my life alongside my older sister who has Downs syndrome, positive support from the community enables people with Down syndrome to lead fulfilling and productive lives.

Here are a few myths debunked:

MYTH #1: Down Syndrome is a rare disorder. Down Syndrome is the most common chromosomal condition in people of all races and economic backgrounds. Approximately one in every 700 babies in the United States is born with Down syndrome.

MYTH #2: People with Down syndrome cannot read or write. Most children with Down syndrome can learn to read, write and spell, and many accelerate in their reading and writing development.

MYTH #3: People with Down syndrome cannot walk or play sports. An inability to walk is not a characteristic of Down syndrome. Individuals with Down syndrome have a variety of athletic abilities and levels of agility.

MYTH #4: Adults with Down syndrome cannot live independently. Many adults with Down syndrome in the U.S. live independently with limited assistance from family members or the state.

MYTH #5: Symptoms and characteristics of Down

syndrome are the same for everyone. Although Down syndrome causes some distinct characteristics, each person will have different degrees of characteristics, and some of the features may not appear at all.

MYTH #6: Adults with Down syndrome are unable to form close interpersonal relationships. People with Down syndrome socialize and have meaningful relationships. Some choose to date, marry and start families. Another common misconception is that women with Down syndrome cannot have children. Although it’s true that a person with Down syndrome may have challenges in bearing a child, women who have Down syndrome are fertile and can give birth to children.

MYTH #7: Adults with Down syndrome are unemployable. Individuals with Down syndrome want to be active contributors within their communities and achieve their highest level of self-reliance. For that reason, my organization has developed several unique approaches that not only assist these individuals in fulfilling their dreams of attaining meaningful employment but ensures that employers are receiving valuable employees.

Madison Blanton is CEO of Arizona-based One Step Beyond, a leading provider of comprehensive programming and services for adults who have intellectual disabilities. More information is available at https://osbi.org/

Resolutions

New Year’s resolutions are a great way to set goals for the upcoming year and to create a plan to achieve them. Setting achievable goals will help you stay on track and reach your desired outcomes.

One of the most popular New Year’s resolutions is to improve physical health. This could mean taking a walk every day, joining a gym, or eating healthier meals. Exercise is a great way to improve physical health, and it can also reduce stress and improve mental health. Eating a balanced diet and avoiding sugary drinks and unhealthy snacks are also important!.

Another popular New Year’s resolution is to improve your mental health. This could mean spending more time on hobbies, reading books, or taking a break from social media.

Spending time with family and friends, taking up meditation, and practicing self-care are all important for mental health.

Saving money is another common resolution. This could mean creating a budget and sticking to it, finding ways to reduce expenses, or setting up an emergency fund. Automating savings deposits can also make it easier to stay on track with your savings goals.

Finally, try setting goals for personal growth. This could mean learning a new language, taking a course, or reading more books. Personal growth goals can be both challenging and rewarding, and they can help you develop skills to improve your life.

No matter what your resolutions are, it’s important to make sure they are achievable. Start small and focus on one resolution at a time. Don’t forget to celebrate your successes and be kind to yourself if you make mistakes.

Family Time

Spending quality time with your family is essential for creating strong relationships and fostering a sense of connection. With busy work and school schedules, it can be hard to find enough time to spend with your loved ones. However, it’s important to make the effort to carve out time to truly connect with your family. Here are five ways to make the most of your family time.

1. Have Family Dinners

One of the easiest and most effective ways to spend quality time with your family is to make it a point to eat dinner together. This is a great way to catch up on the day and reconnect with each other. Even if you’re all coming home late, take the time to sit down, enjoy a meal, and chat together.

2. Play Games Together

Playing games is a great way to have some fun with your family. You can play board games, video games, or even just make up your own game. It’s a great way to have some quality time together and get in a few laughs.

3. Go for a Walk

Going for a walk can be a great way to get out of the house and enjoy the fresh air. Whether you take a stroll through the neighborhood or explore a nearby park, it’s a great way to bond with your family.

4. Take a Road Trip

A road trip is a great way to get away and explore while spending quality time together. You can plan a weekend getaway or even just take a day trip to visit a nearby city. This is a great way to make some memories and spend quality time with your family.

5. Do a Craft or Activity

Crafts and activities can be a great way to spend time together. You can all work together to make something or take turns completing a project. You can also try different activities like cooking, painting, or even just playing with clay.

Spending quality time with your family is important for building strong relationships. Make sure to take the time to connect and enjoy each other’s company.

Yum Yum

Cowboy Caviar for New Year’s Celebrations

Tradition suggests that you eat black-eyed peas to welcome the New Year because as author John Egerton wrote in his book, Southern Food, they have a “mystical and mythical power to bring good luck.”

While the most common way to eat these beans is in a dish called “Hoppin’ John,” I prefer to enjoy them in Cowboy Caviar with tortilla chips while watching a college bowl game!

Ingredients:

One 15-oz can Black-Eyed Peas, drained & rinsed

One 15-oz can Black Beans, drained & rinsed

One 10-oz can Rotel Diced Tomatoes & Green Chiles

1 Yellow Pepper, diced

½ C Red Onion, diced

1 Avocado, diced

3 T Olive Oil

2 T Red Wine Vinegar

1 T Worcestershire Sauce

½ tsp kosher Salt

½ tsp Cumin

½ tsp Black Pepper

Optional: Pickled Jalapeno slices to taste

Chopped Fresh Cilantro to taste

Mix everything together and let flavors blend an hour in the refrigerator before serving. The colors look especially bright and vibrant served with yellow and blue tortilla chips!

Submitted by Maureen Woods

Normalcy

What is Normal and How Do I Get There?

One of the most common questions I’m asked as a psychologist is if something is “normal.” The bottom line is this: Normal is what you know. Therefore, it’s very subjective.

By example, let’s compare Shameless, a train wreck of a show, to the idyllic Leave it to Beaver. If you were raised by the Cleavers, you have a wise father who works in a suit and tie and a near-flawless mother who is a domestic engineer in heels and pearls. If you were brought up in a house a la Shameless, you have a drug-abusing, absentee mother with untreated bipolar disorder and a narcissistic, alcoholic father who is into all measure of lying, cheating and stealing. What you’re used to will be seen as normal until your presented with an alternative.

Instead of “normal,” I invite people to look at behaviors as healthy vs. unhealthy. I also use words like “typical” or “atypical.” For instance, it may seem entirely abnormal for someone to have an abusive childhood and continue to find themselves in abusive, tumultuous or dramatic relationships as an adult. Why would they want that? Because that’s their “normal,” that’s what they know. I would even say that such a pattern is “not atypical,” which

means not infrequent but not the rule either. I wouldn’t say it’s “normal” because there are plenty of women with this history who are not in abusive relationships and some who absolutely refuse to be and look for the polar opposite. Yet there are plenty who find themselves in these repetitive patterns, so I wouldn’t classify it as “abnormal” either.

What can you do to discern whether you should make some changes in your life? Ask yourself one question: “If a friend of mine lived life the way I do, what would I THINK about it? How would I FEEL about their situation? Is there any BEHAVIOR change I would suggest?” Stepping outside of yourself can help you do an honest assessment of which parts of your life are healthy, life-generating ones, and which are unhealthy, soul-damaging ones.

DISCLAIMER: Material is for informational purposes only 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.

Submitted by Jennifer Bellingrodt, Psy.D., Licensed Clinical Psychologist. For the full article and more, visit www.doctorbellingrodt.com.

Home Sweet Home

DIY projects are a great way to improve your home’s value without spending a fortune. Many projects are simple enough to do yourself, and they can make a big impact on the value of your home. Here are some DIY projects you can do to increase your home’s value.

1. Paint: A fresh coat of paint can make a big difference in the look and feel of your home. Choose vibrant colors to give your home a modern look, or go for classic neutrals to create a timeless feel.

2. Refresh your kitchen: A new countertop or a fresh coat of paint on your cabinets can give your kitchen a whole new look. You can also replace outdated appliances with energy-efficient models.

3. Landscaping: Adding plants, flowers, and shrubs to your yard can make it look more inviting and attractive. This can also increase the value of your home.

4. Update your windows: Replacing old windows with new, energy-efficient models can help you save money on energy bills. New windows can also improve the look of your home and increase its value.

5. Install new lighting: Replacing outdated lighting fixtures with modern ones can make your home look more modern and inviting. Choose energy-efficient fixtures to help you save money on your energy bills.

6. Add storage: Adding storage to your home is a great way to make it more efficient and organized. It can also make your home feel bigger and more inviting.

7. Upgrade your bathroom: A new vanity, showerhead, or tile can give your bathroom a fresh look. Modern bathrooms are in high demand, so upgrading yours could increase the value of your home.

These are just a few DIY projects you can do to increase the value of your home. With a little time and effort, you can make your home more attractive and valuable.

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