The SunWest Life - January 2024

JANUARY 2024 ISSUE

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Management

Letter From the Editor

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

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Community Happy Birthday St. Goerge

Health Fueling Your Body Right

CONTENTS Lifestyle + Home + More

04 PARADE OF HOMES Parade of Homes offers a captivating exploration of the city’s diverse architectural styles, interior designs, and seamlessly integrated outdoor living spaces.

06 A GUIDE TO RESOLUTIONS Step into 2024 with a splash of fun and self-discovery by creating resolutions that promise a year of transformation.

07 CHARITABLE GIVING

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The strategic benefits of incorporating charitable giving into your estate plan to both fulfill personal satisfaction and minimize transfer taxes.

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

12 SPACE X SpaceX is revolutionizing space exploration by prioritizing efficiency, achieving significant milestones through cost-cutting innovations.

16 EXCLUSIVE!

JANUARY MAINTENANCE TIPS

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HAPPY BIRTHDAY ST. GEORGE

FUELING YOUR BODY RIGHT

St. George is celebrating its 162nd birthday. The celebration reflects on the pioneer spirit that transformed this land into a thriving community.

The practice of mindful eating is a powerful tool and achievable through practical tips that empower individuals to make informed choices.

22 NEW YEAR, NEW YOU As the new year begins, the tradition of making resolutions for personal growth is widespread, but turning these into lasting change requires more.

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Living in one of SunWest Management’s communities is more than just having a place to rest your head — it’s where you call home. At SunWest Management, we know it’s a privilege to say, “Welcome home!”

In our wide variety of communities that meet virtually every need, the perfect fit for your lifestyle is just through the front door of your next dream home in one of our Southern Utah communities.

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PARADE OF HOMES

INSPIRATION FOR YOUR NEXT HOME PROJECT

By Rylee Christensen

The city of St. George is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, warm weather and a community that values architectural innnovation and design. One of the most anticipated events on the local real estate and design calendar is the Parade of Homes. This annual showcase offers an exclusive glimpse into some of the most spectacular residences in the area, providing inspiration for homeowners and design enthusiasts. In this article, we’ll explore how the Parade of Homes in St. George can be a guide for your next home project.

DIVERSITY IN ARCHITECTURE One of the wow features of the Parade of Homes is the diverse range of architectural styles on display.

From modern and minimalist designs to classic and timeless aesthetics, attendees will explore a wide range of styles. This event celebrates the unique character of each home, highlighting the creativity and craftsmanship that go into making St. George’s neighborhoods vibrant and unique.

INNOVATIVE INTERIOR DESIGN Beyond exterior architecture, the Parade of Homes delves into the realm of interior design, showcasing the latest trends, color schemes, and spatial arrangements. Visitors can gain insights into how to create functional and aesthetically pleasing interiors by exploring the curated spaces within these residences. From innovative kitchen layouts to luxurious master suites, the Parade of Homes offers countless ideas for those looking to elevate their own living spaces.

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LANDSCAPING AND OUTDOOR LIVING St. George’s natural beauty serves as a backdrop for many homes featured in the parade. Landscaping and outdoor living spaces are vital components of the showcased residences, demonstrating how homeowners can seamlessly blend their indoor and outdoor environments. Attendees can gather inspiration for creating inviting patios, lush gardens, and breathtaking outdoor retreats that take advantage of the region’s stunning scenery.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND SUSTAINABILITY As environmental consciousness becomes increasingly important, the Parade of Homes in St. George also highlights homes that prioritize energy efficiency and sustainable design. From solar panels to ecofriendly building materials, attendees can discover how to integrate green practices into their own home projects, contributing to both a stylish and environmentally conscious living space.

CONNECTING WITH BUILDERS AND DESIGNERS The Parade of Homes is not only an exhibition but also an opportunity to connect with local builders, architects, and designers.

Visitors can engage in conversations with the creative minds behind the showcased homes, gaining valuable insights into the design process, material choices, and unique challenges faced during construction. This direct interaction can be a valuable resource for those planning their own home projects, offering guidance and expertise.

The Parade of Homes in St. George, Utah, is a treasure trove of inspiration for anyone embarking on a home project. From architectural diversity and interior design innovation to sustainable practices and outdoor living ideas, this annual event provides a comprehensive showcase of the best home designs. Attendees leave not only with a sense of awe but also armed with practical ideas and insights to infuse into their own living spaces, making the Parade of Homes a must-visit for those seeking inspiration for their next home project.

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A Guide to

Resolutions

By Ally Thompson

As we step into the canvas of a new year, it’s the perfect time to add some resolutions into our lives.

If you’re seeking ideas to make 2024 a year of transformation, consider these resolutions.

Practice Gratitude Open your heart to the beauty in everyday moments. Take a moment each day to acknowledge the small wonders, and let gratitude be the gentle guide shaping your perspective.

Learn Something New Rediscover the joy of curiosity. Whether it’s picking up a guitar, learning a new language, or trying your hand at painting, let the excitement of learning something new spark the flame of creativity.

Embrace Healthy Habits Nourish your body and soul with wholesome habits. It could be having nutritious meals, staying hydrated, or simply dancing to your favorite tunes.

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Connect with Loved Ones Cherish the relationships that add color to your life.

Whether it’s a heartfelt conversation with a friend or a cozy dinner with family, prioritize the connections that make your heart feel full.

Reduce Screen Time Unplug and rediscover the world beyond the screen.

Engage in meaningful conversations, enjoy the beauty of nature, and enjoy life without the constant hum of digital distractions.

Set Realistic Goals Celebrate the journey, not just the destination. Set realistic goals that align with your dreams, and savor the small victories that pave the way for a more fulfilling life.

Embrace Positivity Choose positivity as your daily armor. Surround yourself with uplifting vibes, practice selfcompassion, and approach challenges with the belief that every obstacle is an opportunity for growth.

CHARITABLE GIVING

By JC Hallman

When developing your estate plan, you can do well by doing good. Leaving money to charity rewards you in many ways. It gives you a sense of personal satisfaction, and it can save you money in estate taxes.

A FEW WORDS ABOUT TRANSFER TAXES The federal government taxes transfers of wealth you make to others, both during your life and at your death. In 2023, generally, the federal gift and estate tax is imposed on transfers in excess of $12,920,000 ($12,060,000 in 2022) and at a top rate of 40 percent. There is also a separate generation-skipping transfer (GST) tax that is imposed on transfers made to grandchildren and lower generations. For 2023, there is a $12,920,000 ($12,060,000 in 2022) exemption and the top rate is 40 percent.

Note: The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, signed into law in December 2017, doubled the gift and estate tax basic exclusion amount and the GST tax exemption to $11,180,000 in 2018. After 2025, they are scheduled to revert to their pre-2018 levels and cut by about one-half.

You may also be subject to state transfer taxes.

Careful planning is needed to minimize transfer taxes, and charitable giving can play an important role in your estate plan. By leaving money to charity the full amount of your charitable gift may be deducted from the value of your gift or taxable estate.

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MAKE AN OUTRIGHT BEQUEST IN YOUR WILL The easiest and most direct way to make a charitable gift is by an outright bequest of cash in your will. Making an outright bequest requires only a short paragraph in your will that names the charitable beneficiary and states the amount of your gift. The outright bequest is especially appropriate when the amount of your gift is relatively small, or when you want the funds to go to the charity without strings attached.

MAKE A CHARITY THE BENEFICIARY OF AN IRA OR RETIREMENT PLAN If you have funds in an IRA or employersponsored retirement plan, you can name your favorite charity as a beneficiary.

Naming a charity as beneficiary can provide double tax savings. First, the charitable gift will be deductible for estate

tax purposes. Second, the charity will not have to pay any income tax on the funds it receives. This double benefit can save combined taxes that otherwise could eat up a substantial portion of your retirement account.

USE A CHARITABLE TRUST Another way for you to make charitable gifts is to create a charitable trust. There are many types of charitable trusts, the most common of which include the charitable lead trust and the charitable remainder trust.

A charitable lead trust pays income to your chosen charity for a certain period of years after your death. Once that period is up, the trust principal passes to your family members or other heirs. The trust is known as a charitable lead trust because the charity gets the first, or lead, interest.

A charitable remainder trust is the mirror image of the charitable lead trust. Trust income is payable to your family members or other heirs for a period of years after your death or for the lifetime of one or more beneficiaries. Then, the principal goes to your favorite charity. The trust is known as a charitable remainder trust because the charity gets the remainder interest.

Depending on which type of trust you use, the dollar value of the lead (income) interest or the remainder interest produces the estate tax charitable deduction.

Note: There are costs and expenses associated with the creation of these legal instruments.

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WHY USE A CHARITABLE LEAD TRUST? The charitable lead trust is an excellent estate planning vehicle if you are optimistic about the future performance of the investments in the trust. If created properly, a charitable lead trust allows you to keep an asset in the family while being an effective tax-minimization device.

For example, you create a $1 million charitable lead trust. The trust provides for fixed annual payments of $80,000 (or 8 percent of the initial $1 million value of the trust) to ABC Charity for 25 years. At the end of the 25-year period, the entire trust principal goes outright to your beneficiaries. To figure the amount of the charitable deduction, you have to value the 25-year income interest going to ABC Charity. To do this, you use IRS tables. Based on these tables, the value of the income interest can be high — for example, $900,000.

This means that your estate gets a $900,000 charitable deduction when you die, and only $100,000 of the $1 million gift is subject to estate tax.

WHY USE A CHARITABLE REMAINDER TRUST? A charitable remainder trust takes advantage of the fact that lifetime charitable giving generally results in tax savings when compared to testamentary charitable giving. A donation to a charitable remainder trust has the same estate tax effect as a bequest because, at your death, the donated asset has the same estate tax effect as a bequest because, at your death, the donated asset has been removed from your estate. Be aware, however, that a portion of the donation is brought back into your estate through the charitable income tax deduction.

Also, a charitable remainder trust can be beneficial because it provides your family members with a stream of current income — a desirable feature if your family members won’t have enough income from other sources.

For example, you create a $1 million charitable remainder trust. The trust provides that a fixed annual payment be paid to your beneficiaries for a period not to exceed 20 years. At the end of that period, the entire trust principal goes outright to ABC Charity. To figure the amount of the charitable deduction, you have to value the remainder interest going to ABC Charity, using IRS tables. This is a complicated numbers game. Trial computations are needed to see what combination of the annual payment amount and the duration of annual payments will produce the desired charitable deduction and income stream to the family.

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IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES Broadridge Investor Communication Solutions, Inc. does not provide investment, tax, legal, or retirement advice or recommendations. The information presented here is not specific to any individual’s personal circumstances.

To the extent that this material concerns tax matters, it is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, by a taxpayer for the purpose of avoiding penalties that may be imposed by law. Each taxpayer should seek independent advice from a tax professional based on his or her individual circumstances.

These materials are provided for general information and educational purposes based upon publicly available information from sources believed to be reliable — we cannot assure the accuracy or completeness of these materials. The information in these materials may change at any time and without notice.

Prepared by Broadridge Advisor Solutions Copyright 2023.

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HAPPY BirTHDAY

ST. GEOrGE

By Brian Webster

this arid land, transforming it into the thriving community we proudly call home. St. George is not A just a city; it’s a testament to resilience, a living legacy of the enduring pioneer spirit that has shaped its s we celebrate St. George’s 162nd birthday, let’s trace the footsteps of pioneers who ventured into

character since its inception.

162 years ago, the first group of pioneers, known as the Cotton Mission, arrived in this rugged terrain, driven by a vision and faith that would set the foundation for the city we cherish today. Imagine the challenges they faced — a harsh desert climate, untamed wilderness, and the uncertainty of what lay ahead. Yet, these pioneers, undeterred by adversity, turned challenges into opportunities. They carved out a community from the red rock and sandstone, a testament to their unwavering determination.

The pioneer spirit still echoes in every corner of St. George. It’s in the vibrant communities that have grown from those humble beginnings. Take a stroll through Ancestor Square, where historic buildings whisper stories of the past. Visit the Pioneer Courthouse, a living relic of our shared history, reminding us of the principles that shaped our community. The pioneer spirit is not just a memory; it’s a living force that propels us forward, urging us to build upon the foundations laid by those who came before us.

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St. George stands as a beacon of strong values — values that have been nurtured and passed down through generations, and added to with each new neighbor. The core of these values lies in the sense of community. We are not just neighbors; we are a family bound by a shared history and common values. Our strong sense of community is evident in the way we come together to celebrate, support, and uplift one another.

Look at the dedication to education that permeates our community. From the pioneering days when makeshift schools were established to today’s modern educational institutions, we have consistently invested in the future. Utah Tech University, rooted in the same soil where the pioneers toiled, stands as a testament to our commitment to knowledge and progress.

Our values are also reflected in the commitment to preserving our natural beauty. Snow Canyon State Park, with its majestic red rock formations, is not just a scenic wonder; it’s a commitment to environmental stewardship. Our ancestors, in their wisdom, recognized the importance of preserving the land for future generations. As we enjoy the breathtaking vistas, let’s pledge to continue this legacy of environmental responsibility.

St. George is not just a place; it’s a promise to the future. It’s a promise we make to our children and their children — a promise of a community where values are not just spoken but lived. It’s a promise of a city where the pioneer spirit, old and new, continues to thrive. It is where challenges are met with innovation and where each generation builds upon the achievements of the last.

Consider our healthcare facilities, a beacon of health and well-being. The Dixie Regional Medical Center, with its state-of-the-art facilities, is a shining example of our dedication to the health and happiness of our residents. It stands not just as a hospital but as a symbol of our commitment to the welfare of our community.

And let’s not forget the world-class recreational opportunities that surround us. From hiking the trails of Red Cliffs National Conservation Area to teeing off at our renowned golf courses, St. George offers a quality of life that is second to none.

As we celebrate St. George’s 162nd birthday, let’s not merely commemorate the past but commit ourselves to the future. Let’s honor the pioneer spirit by being pioneers in our own right — pioneers of progress, of unity, and of shared values.

St. George is not just the best place to call home; it’s a home worth building. Let’s continue to work honestly and diligently, preparing the way for those who will come after us. As we look back with gratitude and look forward with hope, let the flame of the pioneer spirit illuminate our path toward a brighter, more prosperous, and harmonious future.

Happy birthday, St. George! May the next 162 years be even more glorious than the last.

As we look toward the future, the optimism in St. George is palpable. Our economy is robust, driven by a blossoming range of industries. From tourism to technology, St. George is not just keeping pace with the times; it’s setting the pace. The Silicon Slopes extension here is a testament to our commitment to innovation and emerging business.

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SPACE X

NEW FRONTIER OF SPACE EXPLORATION

By Joseph Brimer

SpaceX, founded by Elon Musk in 2002, is reshaping space exploration, driven by a mission to make it more efficient and accessible. SpaceX has since achieved remarkable milestones!

With a focus on reducing costs and ambitious plans for interplanetary travel, SpaceX is at the forefront of transforming the possibilities of human space exploration.

MISSION OF SPACEX At the heart of SpaceX’s mission is the commitment to reduce space transportation costs and make space travel a viable future option. This commitment is exemplified by the

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development of reusable rocket technology, particularly showcased in the Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy rockets. These innovations not only cut costs significantly but also increase the frequency of launches, opening new frontiers for scientific research, commercial ventures, and international collaboration.

CHALLENGES SpaceX confronts financial challenges in space exploration through the revolutionary concept of reusable rocket technology. The Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy rockets, with their ability to return and be relaunched, mark a paradigm

shift, drastically reducing the expenses associated with space travel. This breakthrough not only enhances the cost-efficiency of space missions but also accelerates the pace of launches, enabling a new era of exploration. Commercial space ventures, previously thought to be impossible due to cost, has become more of a reality thanks to the reusable rocket technology.

FUTURE PLANS Looking ahead, SpaceX’s future plans are as ambitious as its past achievements. The Starship spacecraft, in development, represents the next leap in space exploration, envisioned by Elon Musk as the key vehicle for transporting humans to Mars.

Simultaneously, SpaceX is actively contributing to NASA’s Artemis program, utilizing Starship technology for future lunar missions.

Beyond planetary exploration, SpaceX is making strides in providing global internet coverage through the Starlink project. A constellation of satellites aims to deliver high-speed internet access globally, with the revenue generated supporting SpaceX’s ambitious space exploration projects.

As SpaceX pioneers the new frontier of space exploration, it not only launches rockets but propels humanity toward a future where the cosmos is within reach for exploration, discovery, and perhaps, the establishment of new homes beyond our own planet.

MILESTONES SpaceX’s success has been evident on numerous achievements. By successfully achieving reliable and efficient technology SpaceX has moved into the next phase, crewed missions. The Crew Dragon missions which were in partnership with NASA have finally brough crewed spaceflights back to America. Looking forward, the development of the Starship spacecraft aims to redefine interplanetary travel and potential colonization. The Crew Dragon missions are the lynchpin to reach this next milestone.

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Letter from the editor To our distinguished readers, We hope you had as great of year as our 2023!

While we saw steady growth in our readership over the year, our major focus was on content.

The SunWest Life was created to provide association residents with the knowledge and context of what community living is. A plethora of influences impact each of us in ways that may not be noticeable at first glance. Articles like maintenance tips, local hot spots, and fun pop culture references have shed light on what it’s like living in Washington County.

As we go into 2024, these articles will still be included in each edition of the magazine.

Additionally, we will be getting back to our roots with association articles. We hope this balances

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the personable approach of our staff with the necessary content to bring a greater sense of informed residents. We’re aiming to address stigmas around homeowners associations and present information that aides residents and volunteers in the discussion about what type of community they want to have.

Most importantly, we want to make this magazine as beneficial to you as possible. What content do you want to see? What questions do you have about how associations work? Is there a local topic or place you want us to discuss? Please send us a quick message at collab@swmlife.com We wish you a happy New Year and a great 2024.

Sonny + the SunWest Life team

PERIMETER PEST CONTROL Zap these pests at the perimeter of your home before they make it their home!

Service $45 dollars Perimeter treatments means our techs don’t have to enter your home Washington County experienced an unusual amount of rainfall this year, creating optimal conditions for various pests. Cockroaches are particularly resourceful, and the excess moisture has pushed them to seek refuge indoors, resulting in an increase in sightings within residential spaces. Those cockroaches that are living in your home during the winter months do slow down and multiply less. but when temperatures warm up again, the pests that had been laying low will go into high gear, searching for food and multiplying. To safeguard your home from these pests and protect your living space, take the necessary steps and get treated today.

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JANUARY

MAINTENANCE TIPS

By Nick Boulton

J

anuary may be cold, dark and gloomy at times, but it can also be a time for adventurous beginnings.

Make the most of this month and make it yours as you start out by clearing space, making repairs and doing preventative maintenance throughout your home, both inside and out. Here are some items to give your home a little midwinter Tender Lovin’ Care.

CLEAN OUT THE KITCHEN, PANTRY FRIDGE AND FREEZER SPACES My Wife and I recently did this to our Pantry. We removed everything from the pantry and tossed out stale and expired foods. We took the time to wipe down the shelves before putting everything back and even added some new shelves to create more room. We also added a fresh coat of paint to the existing shelves. Before putting everything back in, take some time to look for pantry and cabinet organizers online. That will help organize this space better. Clean out the fridge and freezer, and clear off your countertops. Let the revived space propel you to stick with your health resolutions for the new year.

CLEAR OUT ANY DISORDER AND CLUTTER THROUGHOUT YOUR HOME Make a brand-new start with the new year and clear out any items that may not be in use. If dealing with the whole house feels staggering and hard to take on, focus on just a few items or areas, such as books, clothes and even children’s toys. Unwanted clutter, donate to a local charity such as Switchpoint thrift store or the Deseret Industries (D.I.).

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ORGANIZE COLD-WEATHER AND WARM WEATHER ACCESSORIES Sort through your sock drawer, entryway baskets, hooks, boxes and anywhere else cold or warm weather accessories are at, and take time to sort through what you have. Organize and put things in order so everything is easier to find. Again, if you have unwanted items, donate them.

ORGANIZE BOARD GAMES, PUZZLES AND TOYS When bad weather has you held up indoors and you’re looking for a substitute to screen time either from the TV or your phone, board games and cards are always a game changer. Pun intended. I recommend pulling out everything you’ve got and take time to check that each set has all of the pieces from dice and chips, to puzzle pieces and so on. Put games your family no longer enjoys aside to give away, and put the rest back in an orderly fashion. By organizing games or even toys slightly different, it may entice your little ones that are stuck indoors and don’t want to brave the colder weather to play with some of those items that they may have stopped playing with. Try adding new items such as a play tent or teepee, a chalkboard or whiteboard wall, a stage area for acting or an area for art.

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PROTECT PIPES FROM FREEZING This time of year can cause all sorts of headaches and one of those is if your pipes freeze and burst, ending in costly repairs. Be sure to insulate any exposed outdoor pipes. Un hook your hose from the house and wrap your hose bib in a hose bib insulation wrap. Pipe or hose bib insulations can be found at any of your local big box stores like Lowes or Home Depot. It’s a good idea to flush toilets and run water in unused bathrooms to prevent frozen pipes and hard water stains. Clean your water softener to keep it in good working order. If you’re planning to be away from home for an extended amount of time, ask a friend or neighbor to keep an eye on things. Make sure to locate and find out where your home and your irrigation water shut-off valve is so you can turn off the water quickly if a pipe does burst.

CHECK SMOKE AND CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTORS With more heaters, wood fires or gas fireplaces being used, it is especially important during winter to make sure those smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning properly. Use the test button on each device, and change batteries as needed. If your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are like mine, they will let you know when they are low or out of batteries by beeping at you. I do think they purposely wait till you’re asleep to do this. Check fire extinguishers and make sure they don’t need to be recharged or replaced. Review your emergency plan and make sure your family knows what the alarms on the smoke detectors sound like and what to do in case of a fire or an emergency. This may be silly for some, but practice what you’ll do in emergencies! Replace or clean your furnace filter and vents.

Winter storms can bring power outages, so it’s a good idea to check other items with batteries and

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have extra batteries on hand. Check light bulbs throughout the house and on flashlights to make sure they are functioning, weather radios, and other emergency items such as a first aid kit. Keep plenty of cold and cough medicine and vitamin C on hand to prepare for flu season. Make sure to have enough water and food on hand for at least 72 hours or longer.

CLEAN THE KITCHEN If you’ve been hosting holiday events like us, your kitchen has logged some serious overtime hours.

And let’s face it, it’s time to give your kitchen and you a well needed break, so sit back and order some takeout. But before you do, take some time to clean the various parts of your kitchen so it’s fresh, clean and well-functioning when you decide to pick up a pot and a serving spoon again. Clean your range and your stove. Clean your range-hood filter in boiling water and baking soda. Cleaning the hood will not only rid your filter of ickiness,

but will help to keep your kitchen’s air pure. Look in your microwave and clean out any splattered food debris. If any of the grease is too stubborn to clean, don’t lose your cool. Look up alternatives and other ways to clean hard stuck on items off of certain items. Refrigerator coils tend to attract dust bunnies as magnets. So if you want to boost your fridge’s efficiency, vacuum the coils regularly.

You can use a vent cleaning brush for cleaning both your refrigerator and freezer coils as well as your dryer vent. When you are through, cozy up on the couch and take that well needed break.

Last but not least, give in to that urge to hibernate.

In winter, it’s instinctive for some to want to spend extra time at home just simply relaxing. Make yourself your own personal haven for snuggling up to read a good book or to watch a movie.

Layer on a warm blanket and some sweats, get that extra pillow, make some hot chocolate or cider, and settle in.

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LPL Financial Advisor Located at Goldenwest Credit Union Office: 435-656-7271 Email: jhallman.lpl@gwcu.org Securities and advisory services are offered through LPL Financial (LPL), a registered investment advisor and broker-dealer (member FINRA/SIPC). Insurance products are offered through LPL or its licensed affiliates. Goldenwest Credit Union (GWCU) and MEMBERS Financial Services are not registered as a broker-dealer or investment advisor.

Registered representatives of LPL offer products and services using MEMBERS Financial Services, and may also be employees of Goldenwest Credit Union. These products and services are being offered through LPL or its affiliates, which are separate entities from, and not affiliates of, Goldenwest Credit Union or MEMBERS Financial Services. Securities and Insurance offered through LPL or its affiliates are: Not Insured by NCUA or Any Other Government Agency

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FUELING YOUR

Body right

By Jared Brimer

In a fast-paced world where convenience often comes first, the concept of mindful eating is gaining momentum as a powerful tool for cultivating a healthier relationship with food. Mindful eating is not just a trend; it’s a practice rooted in the age-old wisdom of paying attention to what, when, and how we eat.

Understand Mindful Eating At its core, mindful eating is about cultivating a heightened awareness of the present moment during meals. It involves being fully engaged with the sensory experience of eating, from the colors and textures of your food to the flavors that dance on your palette. This keeps the entire process intentional, from meal planning and preparation to the emotions associated with eating.

Here are the benefits Weight Management By having a deeper connection with your body’s hunger and fullness cues, mindful eating can contribute to better weight management. You become more attuned to your body’s natural signals, helping you distinguish between physical hunger and emotional cravings.

Awareness of Food Choices Mindful eating prompts you to make conscious food choices. It encourages focus on nutrient-dense, whole foods, as well as an awareness of portion sizes, leading to a more balanced and nutritious diet.

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Emotional Well-being

Eat Without Distractions

Connecting with the present moment during meals can positively affect you. Mindful eating discourages judgment around food choices and promotes a healthy relationship with eating, reducing stress associated with mealtime.

Minimize distractions such as TV, phones, or work during meals. This allows you to focus on the act of eating and tune into your body’s signals.

Enhanced Enjoyment

Practice mindful chewing by savoring each bite and paying attention to the flavors.

Chewing thoroughly aids digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness.

Rushed meals often lead to missing out on the pleasure of eating. Mindful eating allows you to truly savor the flavors and textures of your food, fostering a more enjoyable and satisfying eating experience.

Improved Digestion Mindful eating encourages you to eat more slowly and savor each bite. This aids digestion by allowing your body to properly break down and assimilate nutrients, reducing the risk of digestive discomfort.

some Practical Tips Engage Your Senses Take a moment to appreciate the visual appeal, aroma, and texture of your food before taking a bite. Engaging your senses enhances the enjoyment of your meal.

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Chew Thoroughly

Listen to Your Body Tune in to your body’s hunger and fullness cues. Eat when you’re hungry and stop when you’re satisfied, rather than adhering to external cues or rigid diet rules.

Practice Gratitude Take a moment to express gratitude for your meal. Acknowledge the effort that went into preparing it and appreciate the nourishment it provides. This adds to positive connection you make while eating.

By having a deeper connection with the food you consume, you empower yourself to make informed choices that support your body and mind on the journey to a healthier, more balanced lifestyle.

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STRATEGIES FOR SUCCESSFUL RESOLUTIONS

NEW YEAR NEW YOU

By Ally Thompson

As the calendar turns to a new year, many of us find ourselves reflecting on the past and contemplating ways to improve our lives in the coming months. New Year’s resolutions have become a tradition for countless individuals, representing a fresh start and an opportunity for personal growth. However, turning these aspirations into lasting change can be challenging.

In the hustle and bustle of life, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the new year without considering the intricate details that make resolutions transformative. As we bid farewell to the familiar and usher in the unknown, it’s crucial to acknowledge that resolutions go beyond mere declarations; they require thoughtful planning, commitment, and a deep understanding of oneself. Let’s delve into the intricacies of successful resolution-keeping, providing a personal guide to help you navigate the twists and turns on your path to self-improvement.

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Set Realistic/Specific Goals One common pitfall when making resolutions is setting overly ambitious or vague goals. Instead of aiming for broad objectives like “lose weight” or “get in shape,” break them down into smaller, more achievable tasks. For example, setting a goal to exercise for 30 minutes three times a week or incorporating more fruits and vegetables into your diet are specific and attainable objectives.

Realistic and manageable goals increase the likelihood of success and keep you motivated throughout the year.

Create a Plan Once you’ve defined your resolutions, develop a detailed plan outlining the steps you need to take to achieve them. Break your goals into smaller, actionable tasks with specific timelines. Whether your resolution involves improving your physical

fitness, learning a new skill, or adopting healthier habits, having a well-organized plan provides a roadmap to success. Consider seeking the guidance of professionals, such as a fitness trainer or a nutritionist, to help create a tailored plan suited to your individual needs.

Build a Support System Share your resolutions with friends, family, or a mentor who can offer encouragement and support. Having a strong support system increases accountability and makes the journey more enjoyable. Consider joining a group or community with similar goals. Whether it’s a fitness class, a book club, or an online community, surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals can provide motivation, inspiration, and valuable insights.

Embrace a Growth Mindset Approach your resolutions with a growth mindset, understanding that setbacks are a natural part of the journey. Instead of viewing obstacles as failures, see them as opportunities to learn and adjust your approach. Celebrate small victories along the way, and recognize that progress is a process. A positive and resilient mindset can make a significant difference in staying committed to your resolutions.

Mindfulness and Self-Care Taking care of your mental and emotional well-being is crucial when pursuing any goal.

Incorporate mindfulness practices, such as meditation or deep breathing exercises, into your routine to reduce stress and enhance focus. Additionally, prioritize self-care activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Balancing the pursuit of resolutions with self-compassion contributes to a more sustainable and fulfilling journey.

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Reflect and Adjust Regularly assess your progress and be willing to make adjustments to your plan as needed. Life is dynamic, and circumstances may change. Reflect on what is working well, what needs improvement, and make modifications accordingly. This flexibility ensures that your resolutions remain relevant and adaptable to the evolving nature of your life.

The journey of a “New Year, New You” requires thoughtful planning, determination, and a positive mindset. By setting realistic goals, creating a detailed plan, building a support system, embracing a growth mindset, prioritizing self-care, and remaining adaptable, you can increase your chances of successfully achieving your resolutions.

Remember, the new year is not just a time for change—it’s an opportunity for personal growth, transformation, and the pursuit of a happier and healthier life. www.swmlife.com I 23

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Our digital magazine is another way we share our passion and commitment to serve community associations everywhere. Read on for best practices, tips and offers to enhance your home and community.

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