Published by Estrella Publishing LLC, PO Box 6962, Goodyear AZ 85338. Additional copies 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
As I get older, I find that the challenges of today’s technology get harder and harder to navigate. For example, I recently tried to log on to a website, only to be stopped short by the seemingly obvious and simple question, “Are you human?”
In the past I have breezed past such queries with a basic check of a box, or by picking three pictures that included a traffic light. Not today. The obstacle presented to me involved a riddle that harkened back to an SAT test.
It began innocently enough. “Click on any images that resemble the example.” Hah, I can do that! But what was I looking at? There appeared to be two subjects, however, figuring out what those things were was not going to be easy. After a few minutes it occurred to me that I could be looking at a guitar and some sort of bird. Perhaps an owl? OK, I was getting the hang of it.
On to the second part of the riddle. Pick any images that contained a guitar and/or an owl. I tried looking directly at the nine possibilities, but nothing there seemed remotely bird-like, or musical for that matter. Then I thought that maybe it was one of those 3-D
images, where you have to unfocus your eyes a bit and let things swim into view. Nope, that just gave me a headache and made me feel a tad foolish. In despair I squinted a little and tipped my head to the right. Hold on, was that the curve of a guitar? It was possible I suppose... Well, what did I have to lose? I chose three of the pictures that contained that vague shape and, closing my eyes, pressed ‘enter’. I am not entirely sure if I was correct, or if the website just took pity on me, but it granted me access — only to place me immediately into a queue, as there were too many people trying to log in at the same time!
At this point I had lost the will to navigate any more prompts or intelligence tests and I closed my computer in frustration. I spent the rest of the afternoon with a cool compress on my eyes, and a soothing libation at my elbow, wondering when I had officially become too old to understand new technology.
Catherine Uretsky Editor, Viva Magazine
info@estrellapublishing.com 623.398.5541
Home Sweet Home
Show Your Home Some Love This Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day isn’t just for loved ones—it’s also the perfect time to show your home some extra care. After all, your home is where love truly grows! Here are five simple yet impactful ways to treat your home this season.
1. Declutter and Refresh
Start by giving your home the gift of space. Decluttering not only clears your countertops and closets but also clears your mind. Donate items you no longer use and organize what remains. Finish with a thorough cleaning, and your home will feel as rejuvenated as you do after a spa day.
2. Add a Pop of Color
Nothing says love like vibrant colors. Swap out neutral throw pillows for bold reds or soft pinks, or add a cozy
heart-shaped rug. Fresh flowers in a vase can brighten up your dining table or kitchen counter. These small touches add warmth and a festive feel to your space.
3. Upgrade Your Lighting
Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood. Replace harsh white bulbs with warm, dimmable options to create a soothing ambiance. You can also add string lights or candles for a romantic glow.
4. Pamper Your Bathroom
Transform your bathroom into a mini retreat by upgrading towels, adding scented candles, or even splurging on a luxurious bath bomb. A spa-like bathroom is an everyday indulgence you’ll appreciate long after Valentine’s Day.
5. Invest in Comfort
From a plush throw blanket to a high-quality mattress topper, small comfort upgrades make a big difference. Layering textures like soft velvet, cozy knits, or smooth satin can elevate any room.
Valentine’s Day is about celebrating what you love, and your home deserves to be on that list. By taking these steps, you’ll not only create a more beautiful space but also a more inviting and relaxing environment for you and your loved ones. After all, home is where the heart is—so show it some extra love this February!
Submitted by Tara Rutkowski, Realtor
Cook With Zona
Chocolate Lava Cake
If you’ve ever been on a certain cruise line, where they serve a chocolaty dessert consisting of a chocolate cake with a gooey center, served with vanilla ice cream; you know exactly what I’m talking about!
With Valentine’s Day coming up, I know some couples might scramble last minute to make a reservation or think of heartfelt gifts for their loved ones. Personally, I’d rather have chocolate cake at home over a fancy dinner, any night! Involve the whole family while baking these sweet individual cakes to feel even more love in your kitchen! Happy Valentine’s Day! I love you all!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 14 mins
Total Time: 24 mins
Serves: 4
Ingredients:
1 cup Dark Chocolate Chips
1 ½ sticks of butter
4 Eggs
6 Tbsp Sugar
4 Tbsp Flour
Steps:
1. Melt the chocolate and butter.
2. Mix eggs and sugar in a separate bowl, whisk for a few minutes, then add flour.
3. Add the egg mix to the melted chocolate and mix.
4. Pour the mix into 4 individual greased ramekins.
5. Bake directly in the oven at 390°F for 14 minutes
6. Serve with ice cream and ENJOY!
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!
Winter Health
Winter Respiratory and Stomach Viruses: What You Need to Know and How to Stay Healthy
As respiratory and gastrointestinal infections continue to affect communities across the United States, understanding how to prevent and manage these common viruses is crucial. Three notable viral infections - Norovirus, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), and Influenza - each present distinct challenges to public health. Norovirus, often called the “stomach flu,” is highly contagious and causes severe gastrointestinal symptoms. The virus spreads through contaminated food, surfaces, or close contact with infected individuals. RSV primarily affects the respiratory system and can be particularly dangerous for infants, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals. Influenza, a seasonal respiratory illness, can range from mild to severe and spreads primarily through respiratory droplets.
Prevention strategies for all three viruses share common elements. Frequent handwashing with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds is crucial, especially before handling food and after using the bathroom. For Norovirus specifically, alcohol-based hand sanitizers are less effective, making thorough handwashing essential. To prevent RSV and flu transmission, avoid touching your face, maintain physical distance from sick individuals, and consider wearing a mask in crowded indoor spaces during peak seasons.
If you contract any of these viruses, proper management is key. For Norovirus, focus on preventing dehydration by drinking plenty of clear fluids to replace those lost through vomiting and diarrhea. Small, frequent sips are better tolerated than large amounts at once. With RSV and flu, rest is crucial, and over-the-counter medications can help manage symptoms like fever and congestion. Create a humid environment using a humidifier to ease respiratory symptoms. Maintaining a clean environment is essential for preventing virus spread. Regularly disinfect commonly touched surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, and electronic devices. For Norovirus specifically, use bleach-based cleaners as other disinfectants may not be effective. When caring for someone who is sick, wear disposable gloves and wash contaminated items thoroughly.
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, inability to keep liquids down for 24 hours, or signs of dehydration. For high-risk individuals, including young children, elderly adults, pregnant women, or those with underlying health conditions, early medical consultation is recommended.
Super Bowl History
The Super Bowl has grown from a modest championship game into America’s biggest sporting spectacle since its inception in 1967. The first game, then called the AFL-NFL World Championship Game, saw the Green Bay Packers defeat the Kansas City Chiefs. It wasn’t until the third edition that the term “Super Bowl” was officially adopted, inspired by the “Super Ball” toy that Kansas City Chiefs owner Lamar Hunt’s children played with.
The early years were dominated by the NFL’s established franchises, particularly the Green Bay Packers under legendary coach Vince Lombardi, for whom the championship trophy would later be named. The 1970s saw the emergence of dynasty teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers, who won four championships during the decade with their “Steel Curtain” defense and offensive stars like Terry Bradshaw and Franco Harris. The 1980s brought the rise of the San Francisco 49ers dynasty, led by Joe Montana and Jerry Rice, while the 1990s featured the Dallas Cowboys’ dominance with their trio of Troy Aikman, Emmitt Smith, and Michael Irvin. As the game evolved, so did its cultural significance. The Super Bowl became not just a sporting event but a de facto American holiday, complete with parties, elaborate halftime shows, and eagerly anticipated commercial advertisements.
The New England Patriots defined the modern era, establishing a dynasty under coach Bill Belichick and quarterback Tom Brady that would span nearly two decades,
winning six championships between 2002 and 2019. Their success coincided with the Super Bowl’s transformation into a global media phenomenon, with television viewership regularly exceeding 100 million in the United States alone.
The economic impact of the Super Bowl is staggering, with host cities experiencing significant boosts to their local economies. Companies pay millions of dollars for brief commercial spots, turning advertising into an art form and cultural touchpoint. The game has also embraced technological innovation, from instant replay to advanced broadcasting techniques that enhance the viewing experience.
Today, the Super Bowl represents the pinnacle of American sports culture. Its evolution from a simple championship game to a cultural phenomenon reflects broader changes in American society and the growing influence of professional sports in popular culture.
Money Matters
You can put more into your 401(k) this year
Once you retire, you’ll likely need to draw on a variety of financial sources — and one of the most important ones may be your 401(k). And for 2025, you can put even more money into your plan than ever. With a traditional 401(k), you contribute pre-tax dollars, which can lower your taxable income, and your money can grow tax deferred. If you have a Roth 401(k) option, you can contribute after-tax dollars, which aren’t deductible, but your eventual withdrawals will be tax-free if you’ve had your account at least five years and you’re at least 59½.
For either a traditional or Roth 401(k), as well as similar plans such as a 457(b) (for government employees) or a 403(b) (for educators and employees of some nonprofit groups), the contribution limit has increased by $500 for 2025, to $23,500. If you’re 50 or older, you can contribute an additional $7,500, for a total of $31,000. And under the SECURE 2.0 legislation, if you are between 60 and 63, you have a higher catch-up contribution — $11,250, instead of $7,500, for a total of $34,750.
If you can afford to contribute the full amount to your 401(k) or similar plan, consider doing so. Of course, not everyone is in that position. If you’re a younger worker, you may well have other financial obligations, such as paying off student loans. And even if you’ve been in the workforce for a while, you may be putting
away money for other things — such as your children’s education — as well as your own retirement. But even if you can’t “max out” on your 401(k), try to contribute at least enough to earn your employer’s matching contribution, if one is offered.
Regardless of how much you contribute to your 401(k), consider these suggestions on managing the money within your plan:
• Create a portfolio that fits your risk tolerance.
• Adjust your portfolio as needed.
By contributing what you can afford to your 401(k), and by carefully managing the investments within your plan, you can help maximize the value of this powerful retirement savings vehicle — and give yourself a key asset to help you enjoy your retirement years.
Submitted by Brian Polk, Financial Advisor, of Edward Jones
Desert Romance
Arizona’s Valentine’s
Day Getaways: Where Love Meets the Wild West
As February’s most romantic holiday approaches, Arizonas diverse landscape offers a perfect blend of luxury, adventure, and natural beauty, creating opportunities for couples to craft their own unique love stories against stunning backdrops.
Sedona’s iconic red rock formations create an almost otherworldly setting for romance. The dramatic landscape, with its towering crimson cliffs and spires, takes on an especially magical quality during sunset when the rocks glow in deepening shades of red and pink. Luxury resorts nestled among these formations offer specialized couples’ experiences, from private vortex meditation sessions to romantic spa treatments incorporating indigenous ingredients like prickly pear, desert sage, and local clay.
In Scottsdale, high-end resorts transform their desert properties into romantic sanctuaries. Private candlelit dinners under star-filled skies become unforgettable experiences, often accompanied by live classical music and champagne service. Many resorts offer signature Valentine’s packages combining hot air balloon rides over the Sonoran Desert with gourmet champagne breakfasts and couples’ spa treatments. The city’s vibrant arts district also provides opportunities for romantic gallery walks and intimate dining experiences at award-winning restaurants.
For couples seeking thrills alongside romance, Arizona offers countless options. Lake Powell’s hidden coves provide secluded spots for intimate picnics, while helicopter tours over the Grand Canyon create dramatic backdrops for proposals or anniversary celebrations. Private jeep tours through the desert conclude with gourmet dinners at sunset, often featuring wines from Arizona’s emerging Verde Valley wine region.
Phoenix’s Desert Botanical Garden transforms into a romantic haven during their annual “Love in the Garden” event. Illuminated pathways wind through native desert flora, while live music and wine tastings create an enchanting atmosphere. The garden’s special Valentine’s programming often includes intimate concerts and chef-prepared dinners among the cacti
For those seeking complete privacy, luxury desert camps offer exclusive glamping experiences that combine comfort with adventure. These high-end camps feature private terraces for stargazing, heated outdoor soaking tubs, and personal chefs who prepare romantic dinners in complete seclusion. February’s mild temperatures and clear skies make outdoor evenings particularly appealing, with strategically placed heat lamps ensuring comfort on cooler nights.
Whether you prefer luxury resort experiences, outdoor adventures, or intimate desert retreats, Arizona brings
The Bug Guy
A Fresh Start: February Brings Natural Pest Control to Phoenix
As winter’s mild grip loosens on the Phoenix Valley, February emerges as a pivotal month for sustainable pest management. The moderate temperatures, typically ranging from 45°F to 72°F, create ideal conditions for natural pest control methods that benefit both homeowners and the environment.
• Desert birds, particularly house finches and cactus wrens, return in greater numbers during February, naturally controlling insect populations. These feathered allies consume thousands of mosquito larvae and other problematic insects daily, reducing the need for chemical interventions.
• Local gardeners find February optimal for planting pest-deterrent herbs like rosemary, sage, and native wildflowers. These plants not only beautify yards but also naturally repel unwanted insects while attracting beneficial ones. The cooler temperatures allow these plants to establish strong root systems before summer’s intensity.
• The month’s typically low humidity also works in residents’ favor, naturally deterring moistureloving pests like cockroaches and termites. This environmental advantage, combined with basic home maintenance like sealing entry points and proper ventilation, creates an effective first line of defense against common household pests.
• February’s moderate climate encourages beneficial insects like ladybugs and praying mantises to become more active. These natural predators help control aphids and other garden pests, maintaining a healthy ecological balance without chemical pesticides.
For Phoenix residents, February represents an opportunity to establish sustainable pest management practices that will protect their homes throughout the year. By working with nature’s cycles and embracing biological control methods, homeowners can maintain pest-free environments while contributing to the valley’s delicate desert ecosystem. This approach not only ensures immediate pest control but also promotes long-term environmental health in our unique desert community.
Submitted by Larry Cash, of Estrella Mountain Pest Control
The Doctor Is In
7 Steps to Overcome Imposter Syndrome
Last month, we explored signs of imposter syndrome. This month, I’m sharing 7 steps to overcome it. Let’s get to it!
1. Acknowledge your imposter feelings. Labeling your fear can help you feel some control over it. Instead of engaging with your thoughts of self-doubt, remind yourself that this is your own personal, normal response to the situation at hand.
2. Understand the root of the problem. Figure out where your anxiety is coming from so you can gain greater control over it. (Hint: It starts in childhood with the development of self-limiting beliefs based on your genetics, environment and experiences, and it may take a deep dive into your history or even doing some therapy to figure this out.)
3. Focus on facts, not feelings. When you start feeling
like a fraud, focus on positive, alternative possibilities. Look for ways to dispute your negative automatic thoughts. For instance, what factual evidence do you actually have that you are a fraud?
4. Ask yourself if the thought that you’re an imposter helps or hinders you. Does feeling fraudulent serve you in any way? What might happen if you didn’t have that thought?
5. Reframe your thoughts. Instead of telling yourself that you don’t deserve success, reframe your thoughts to give yourself more credit and enjoy the experience. Own your accomplishments instead of attributing them to luck. Accept that we all have to start somewhere. Successful people just feel the fear and do it anyway.
6. Accept that it’s normal to make mistakes, especially if it’s something new to you. Look for what you can learn from each mistake instead.
7. Reach out for support. Having a safe space to receive support will help you reduce feelings of being an imposter. When you feel imperfect or make a mistake, reach out to an encouraging mentor, coach, friend, colleague or therapist for support.
Imposter syndrome can make you feel like you’re not good enough, you don’t belong or you are undeserving or unworthy. But it’s important to remind yourself that learning and making mistakes does not make you a fraud—it makes you human.
If you struggle with imposter syndrome, your underlying self-limiting beliefs are getting in your way. It’s time to get over yourself and get on with your life and what you want to do with it! Head on over to ThePsychoeducationAcademy.com for help with overcoming your negative thoughts.
Submitted by Dr. J. Paweleck-Bellingrodt, Psy.D.
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.
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
Craft Corner
Getting Started with Crochet
You’ll need:
A size H/8 (5mm) crochet hook
Medium-weight yarn in a light color
Scissors
Stitch markers (optional)
Step 1: The Slip Knot
Create a loop by crossing the yarn over itself, leaving a tail about 6 inches long. Insert your hook through the loop and pull to tighten, but not too tight - you’ll need to work into this first stitch.
Step 2: Holding the Hook and Yarn
Hold your hook like a pencil, using your thumb and index finger to grip the flat part. The yarn should flow over your non-dominant hand’s index finger, with your other fingers controlling tension.
Step 3: Making Chain Stitches
Wrap the yarn over your hook (yarn over)
Catch the yarn with your hook
Pull it through the loop on your hook
Each completed chain looks like a small “V”
Step 4: Single Crochet Stitch
Insert hook into the second chain from hook
Yarn over
Pull through chain (2 loops on hook)
Yarn over again
Pull through both loops
Making A Simple Square
Practice making a 10x10 stitch square:
Chain 11 stitches
Single crochet in each chain across
Chain 1, turn
Repeat until you have 10 rows
Remember: Crochet is a journey of continuous improvement. Your tension and stitch consistency will naturally improve with practice.
