Superstition Living June by Mansur Design Co.

SUPERSTITIONLIVING

PERALTA CANYON!

2,000 SF / 4 BD / 2 BTH

Priced To Sell! Gorgeous Home With STUNNING Mountain Views—Features An Open Design, Spectacular Chef’s Kitchen & Upgrades Absolutely Everywhere!

$499,900

Call Terri - 480-770-9507

GOLD CANYON EAST!

2,017 SF / 3 BD+Den / 2 BTH Open Design Features Gorgeous Kitchen, Stone Fireplace, Oversized Master Suite & Backyard Oasis With Inspiring Mountain Views!

$850,000

Call Sergio 602-617-3540

MOUNTAIN VIEW AREA!

2,483 SF / 4 BD / 2.5 BTH Breathtaking Superstition Mountain Views, 5 Car Garage Incl. 50 FT RV Garage PLUS A Detached 16x24 Single Bay & Workshop! 1+ Acre, NO HOA, High End Upgrades!

$998,900

GOLD CANYON ESTATES!

2,693 SF / 4 BD / 3.5 BTH VOTED BEST HOME ON TOUR! Gorgeous Custom Retreat - Premier Gated CommunityElegant & Luxurious Upgrades & Finishes Throughout - Turnkey Furnished & Decorated!

GOLD CANYON EAST!

1,696 SF / 2 BD + Office / 2 BTH RESORT Backyard Features Sparkling Pool, Hot Tub & STUNNING Mountain Views! Upgrades & Updates Throughout This Beautiful Great Room Design Home!

Call Zach Jensen & Shelly Lovelady 480-440-4213 SUPERSTITION MOUNTAIN CC!

4,042 SF / 4 BD / 4 BTH Resort Home Showcases Courtyard Entry, Separate Casita, Limestone Floors, Alabaster Light Fixtures, Master Suite Retreat w/Luxury Bath, Custom Closet, Sitting Room, Private Balcony & Breathtaking Mountain Views!

$1,195,000

Call Dawn - 480-250-7556

$829,000 Dawn - 480-250-7556

PERALTA TRAILS!

2,054 SF / 4 BD / 2 BTH Cul De Sac PREMIUM Superstition Mountain View Lot Features Custom Touches & Elegant Upgrades Throughout Including Granite, Wainscoting, Gas Cooktop, Double Ovens, Entertainment Center, Jetted Tub In Master & More!

$515,000 Call Marsha 480-213-7275

$564,000 Call Ronelle 480-326-7849

CLOUDVIEW AREA!

2,800 SF / 3 BD / 2 BTH Remodeled Custom Home On 2.5 ACRES Features Gourmet Kitchen Inside, Gorgeous Master Suite AND SPECTACULAR Upgraded Backyard w/Outdoor Kitchen, Gazebo & Firepit!

$1,350,000 Carol - 480-326-6767

INSIDETHISISSUE

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If you are looking for extra copies of past editions, please email editor@mansurdesign.com to work something out, or if you would like to order some online to be sent to your address, you may do so on my ko-fi shop, ko-fi.com/MansurDesignCo.

This magazine is paid for by Local advertisers and is free to pick up from the Apache Junction Chamber of Commerce, and the Gold Canyon Visitor Center, as well as, other businesses around the area. This Publication would not be here if it wasnt for the support of our Local Businesses, Thank you! You can read them all online at issuu.com/SuperstitionLiving

the joy of

JUNE 2025 ] VOL 9 - n 6

Published monthly by Mansur Design Company LLC. Contact editor@mansurdesign.com for any questions.

& Photo Submissions

& Encouraged!

Please limit stories to approximately 400 words, and Calendar events to 100 words. You may submit Articles and Events to editor@mansurdesign.com or at the upload form on SuperstitionLiving.com

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This is not a platform for complaints or political agenda.

Opinions expressed in editorial or advertisements do not necessarily represent the view or opinion of Mansur Design Co.

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Deadlines

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Mailing ADDRESS: Mansur Design Company LLC. PO Box 2909, Apache Junction, AZ 85178

Estate Team

LOCALEVENTS

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Submissions are due 10th of the month prior editor@mansurdesign.com

Thursday, June 5th & July 10th, from 6-8pm — Paints & Pints! AJ Parks and Rec is teaming up with Cat Wagon Tap and Bottle for Paints & Pints! Each month will have a different theme for its painting, so no two months are the same! Paints & Pints will begin at 6pm, and it should take about two hours to finish. Registration is $40 and open to anyone 16 years or older. Registration covers all painting supplies and a free drink (pint, wine, soda)! Paints & Pints will be held at Cat Wagon Tap and Bottle, located at 2430 W. Apache Trail #4 in Apache Junction. Space is limited, so make sure to register online at https://www.apachejunctionaz.gov/111/ParksRecreation

Saturday June 7th, from 6:30am to 8am — SUNRISE HIKE at Boyce Thompson Arboretum | Get outside this summer with our staff on a family friendly educational hike! Learn about our unique collection plants, Sonoran Desert ecology, and meet our resident Sonoran Desert Tortoises. Be sure to wear closed-toe shoes, sun protective clothing, and bring plenty of water. Sign up for this free hike at the admissions booth on the day of the walk. Sunrise Hikes are first-come, first-served and limited to 15 guests. Reservations are NOT accepted. Distance: Approximately 1 mile

Friday, July 4th — AJ Fireworks Extravaganza - 8:30pm | The fireworks show is the main event! The show will begin at 8:30pm gates open at 6pm, and you definitely don't want to miss it! The main event is located at Superstition Shadows Park, 1091 W Southern Ave, in the area south of the skate park. This is a free event, open to the public (a small fee for food and game booths may apply). Game booths, hosted by local organizations and activities for kids will take place at the field starting at 6pm. Bicycle, Tricycle, & Wagon Mini Float Contest - judging at 6:30 p.m., floats should be placed in front of the main Parks & Recreation booth- Winners will be announced around 7:30pm during the bands intermission. Fireworks start at 8:30pm. Parking and traffic for this event is limited. See www. apachejunctionaz.gov for parking maps and more info.

Events Continue at Boyce Thompson Arboretum, Check the complete event pages on their website at www.btarboretum.org/event or contact the Visitor's Center at 520-689-2723. You may also Email: info@btarboretum. org.

Exciting Activities year round at the Superstition Mountain Museum, Call 480 983-4888 or visit www.superstitionmountainmuseum.org for schedule of classes and events.

Visit Lost Dutchman State Park, Check the website www.azstateparks.com/lost-dutchman/ for a schedule of events and activities. Call 480-982-4485

As a 501(c) nonprofit organization, ADOBE is constrained from direct involvement in partisan political activities. Nonetheless, we retain both the right and responsibility to speak on matters that significantly impact the quality of life in Gold Canyon. These matters, while often situated within politically charged contexts, such as the proposed crosswalk on King’s Ranch Road or the development of a solar farm, are fundamentally community issues.

The ADOBE Board is pleased to express our strong support for the Superstition Fire & Medical District’s forthcoming bond initiative, scheduled for a public vote in November. This support is not offered lightly, but rather with careful consideration of the agency’s essential role in safeguarding our community’s well-being.

Naturally, the final determination lies with the electorate. ADOBE fully respects each citizen’s democratic prerogative to evaluate and vote based on their individual convictions. Equally important, however, is civic participation itself. Voter apathy, especially in off-election years, too often results in underrepresentation. The collective voice of Gold Canyon residents must be heard through active engagement in this democratic process.

Earlier this year, I had the privilege of serving on the Citizens Advisory Committee, comprised of a diverse cross-section of local residents, to examine the proposed bond. The committee’s mandate was to rigorously analyze the District’s needs and provide informed recommendations to the Superstition Fire & Medical District’s Board of Directors. The deliberations were thorough and intellectually rigorous—our stance was not simply to accept assertions of need, but to demand substantiation. In this, the District delivered.

Committee members conducted site visits and were confronted with deteriorating facilities, infrastructure inadequacies, and operational constraints, especially those affecting the needs of both male and female personnel. Health and safety concerns were evident, as were critical equipment deficiencies, particularly concerning wildfire response in our unique desert environment. As Gold Canyon continues to experience significant population and commercial growth, the demand for responsive, wellequipped emergency services will only intensify.

As a former first responder, I can confidently attest that the Superstition Fire & Medical District exemplifies excellence. Their preparedness, competence, and commitment are products of rigorous training and leadership, and they stand as a model of administrative and operational integrity. Anyone who has used or watched their services knows precisely what I mean.

Accordingly, the ADOBE Board of Directors formally endorses a YES vote on the upcoming bond measure supporting the Superstition Fire & Medical District.

A. Walp, PhD • ADOBE – “The Voice and Heart of Gold Canyon since 1989”

JUNE EVENTS AT AJ PUBLIC LIBRARY

1177 N Idaho Rd, Apache Junction, http://www.ajpl.org/

Monday, June 2, 9, 16, 30, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Open Art Group | For adults that want a place to paint or create for a couple of hours! Be sure to bring your own supplies!

Tuesday, June 3, 10, 17, 24, 9 a.m.noon. AZ@Work Job Search Help | AZ@Work will be at the library to support patrons with their job search. From resumes to applications to cover letters.

Thursday, June 5, 5 – 7p.m. Coaster Art | Make some fun painted coasters with us! We will use acrylic paint, markers, vinyl, and salad spinners to make some unique, useful pieces of art. Wear old clothes and have fun with us! Teens and adults welcome. Registration Required

Friday, June 6, 3-5 p.m. Cricut DropIn | Stop by to learn about the Library’s Cricut machine, talk about your ideas, or get help with any issues. Drop in anytime between 3-5 on the first Friday of every month.

Wednesday, June 11, 9 – 10 a.m. Coffee with a Cop | Have coffee with a cop! Community residents are invited to meet with officers from the Apache Junction Police Department. Bring your questions, concerns, share ideas, ask questions, or just get to know your local officers in an informal library environment. No agendas, no speeches, just casual conversation. Coffee and donuts provided

Wednesday, June 11, 4 p.m. Seed Up Meet Up | Help us fill our seed packets for the seed library, hear from Superstition Master Gardeners, ask questions about your home garden, & learn about Earth Heart Park and Community Garden! Topic: Cover Crops

Thursday, June 12, 10 a.m. Breathe Again: Learning to Live After Loss | Are you grieving a loss? Would you like a safe place to discuss your grief? A chance to meet new people and be with others who understand? Join us for a monthly bereavement group hosted by Barbara King, R.N., Executive Director of Supportive Hands Hospice. Free and open to adults.

Thursday, June 12, 5:30 – 7 p.m. Murder Mystery in the Art Gallery | Join us to try to solve this truly stunning murder mystery! Everyone who is anyone is at the grand opening of Catsby’s Fine Art Gallery, but when Mr. Catsby’s fiancee is found murdered, everyone has become a suspect. Watch the mystery unfold, or take on the persona of one of the opening night attendees - who just might be a murderer themselves! Adults only. Please only register if you want a speaking role. If you just want to watch the mystery play out, no need to register!

CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

Saturday, June 14, 3:30 p.m. The Flow of Life: Reiki & the Power Of Presence | This is the first of a monthly series offered by Reiki Master Teacher and author Lori Medina. We’ll explore how Reiki helps us align with the natural flow of life and connect with the present moment. The session includes guided meditation and a deeply restorative group energy healing.

Monday, June 16, 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. Let’s Quilt | Let’s Quilt! provides a place for adults to quilt for a couple hours. Learn more about quilting or share your current project. Be sure to bring your own supplies and enjoy the company of other quilt enthusiasts!

Monday, June 16, 5:30 p.m. Music BINGO | If you know, you know...how fun this event is! Do you know the song? Hope it’s on your card...get BINGO! Join us, sing along and get prizes if you win BINGO!

Tuesday, May 20, 1:30-2:30 p.m. Dying for a Mystery Summer Book Club– One Deadly Eye by Randy Wayne White

Tuesday, June 17, 6 p.m. The No-Wrong-Way Photography Club |Join us monthly at The No-Wrong-Way Photography Club to share tips, critique each other’s work, and get inspired. This group is open to photographers of all skill levels. The objective of individual members is to cultivate a personal style and enhance the quality of their photographs to an

We Understand Commitment

At Edward Jones, we deliver candid guidance and personalized investment strategies to help you plan for and realize the possibilities of your future – for you, your family and generations to follow.

Matthew Fliss, CFP® Financial Advisor

5301 S Superstition Mtn Dr Suite A110 Gold Canyon, AZ 85118 480-983-1333

artistic level. The theme for the following month will also be discussed. Digital photos can be submitted to photoclub@ apachejunctionaz.gov.

Wednesday, June 18, 10 a.m. Funeral Planning Seminar | This funeral planning seminar aims to provide individuals and families with the tools and resources needed to navigate the often emotionally challenging process of arranging a funeral. It will cover the importance of pre-planning, allowing individuals to express their preferences and alleviate the burden on grieving family members. Ultimately, the seminar seeks to empower families with knowledge and support during a difficult time.

Wednesday, June 18, 3:00 p.m. Biblio Bites – Rainbow Charcuterie | Create a board bursting with a rainbow of colors, flavors, and textures at our workshop! Artfully arrange and create your own edible masterpiece to sample or take home. All supplies provided. Registration required and limited to 20 participants. Go to our website or call the library at 480-474-8555 to save your spot. For Ages 13+.

Thursday, June 19, 6:30 p.m. Books & Brews | Rejoice! Books & Brews is continuing throughout the Spring season! Join us at the Handlebar Pub & Grill in Apache Junction. Bring a book that fits the monthly genre or any you’ve enjoyed lately. Delight in discussion and libations on the pub’s patio, plus 10% off your bill! Genre: Summer Reads

Monday, June 23, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Paint & Punch | Let’s “Color Our World” with an afternoon of group painting! Our very own Lab Assistant Dennis Harpool is Bob Ross and Jerry Yarnell certified, and will guide us through the painting process. Each participant will create their own masterpiece, sip some punch, and enjoy the community of other creators. All supplies provided. Teens (ages 13+) & adults welcome. Only 20 seats available, so click the button to register or call the library at 480-474-8555 to save your spot.

Thursday, June 26, 5-7 p.m. B.U.S. Pass Orientation | Have you ever wondered how to use a 3D Printer, Cricut, or Poster Printer? Learn Basic Use and Safety (B.U.S.) of all the devices in our Makerspace and become certified to use all stations without supervision. Registration required and limited to 10 participants. For Ages 13+. The B.U.S. pass will require you to have an Apache Junction Public Library Card.

Thursday, June 26, 6-7:30 p.m. Independence Day Scrap Wreaths | Join us to make simple, stunning wreaths to celebrate Independence Day. All supplies will be provided. Adults and teens welcome.

Monday, June 30, 6 p.m. What’s the Tea | Do you love Tea? Us too! Learn about teas from around the world at this fun experience. No registration but space is limited to the first 40. Bring your unique teacup for Show & Tell. Bring Tea for the Tea Exchange (individually wrapped teabags please) Create a unique loose leaf tea blend to take home.

SONORAN DESERT LANDSCAPES

TOM MCDONALD OWNER - SMILING DOG LANDSCAPES

THE GRACEFUL DESERT WILLOW, CHILOPSIS LINEARIS

Although our Desert Willow is not a true willow, it is a native tree that produces beautiful, large blossoms early spring to fall. Widely hybridized, modern cultivars can have flowers ranging from white to pink to deep purple making it a popular landscape tree extensively used in parks and freeway plantings. While this small tree becomes a little shabby looking in the winter due to the straw-colored seed pods that persist till spring, the Desert Willow is a great attractor of birds for shelter, nectar, and seeds.

Since it is usually found growing in washes and drainage areas, the Native Americans of Arizona recognized it as a reliable indicator of permanent water. Its flexible, durable wood was used to make bows, fence posts, baskets and roofs for their homes. The bark was pounded into cloth and fish nets.

Traditional, ancient medicinal uses include making tea or a hot poultice to soothe coughs, chest and lung fatigue, or rapid pulse. Thanks to its anti-fungal properties, a leaf infusion was often utilized to treat various skin irritations and nail fungi. Modern research has found that desert willow has also shown promise in treating the fungal infection known as valley fever.

So, if you enjoy watching the antics of our feathered friends, consider this hardy, native plant to enhance your landscape with its beautiful blooms. It’s easily found; you can buy it at Home Depot! Such a deal!

JUNE 7 IS FREE FISHING DAY: A GREAT TIME TO INTRODUCE A NOVICE OR YOUNGSTER TO FISHING

By: Arizona Game & Fish

Many anglers have friends who have never been fishing but are curious to learn. One of the best ways to introduce them to this long-standing pastime is to take them out on Arizona's Free Fishing Day.

This year, Saturday, June 7, is the perfect time to do it, as the Arizona Game and Fish Department will not require fishing licenses at any state waters or community lakes as part of National Free Fishing Day.

“The goal of Free Fishing Day is to encourage people to enjoy the outdoors, spend quality time with friends and family, and experience the fun of fishing,” says Chase Newlon, AZGFD fishing R3 coordinator. "Many people who experience fishing for the first time enjoy it so much that they buy a license so they can continue enjoying it all year."

Fishing is already a bargain. Arizona fishing licenses start at just $37 for resident adults (18 and older) and $55 for nonresident adults. A combination hunt and fish license for youths (ages 10-17, residents or nonresidents) is only $5.

While a fishing license is not needed on June 7 this year, bag limits and other Arizona fishing regulations still apply and must be observed on Free Fishing Day. Children under 10 can fish for free all year in Arizona.

For information about fishing and license regulations and places to go, visit www.azgfd.gov.

HEALING NATURALLY

Dr. Tina Marcantel, Naturopathic Doctor

480-738-1647 | DrMarcantel.com

6589 S. Kings Ranch Road, Gold Canyon

A NATURAL APPROACH TO MANAGING HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE

High blood pressure, or hypertension, occurs when the arteries cannot dilate properly to accommodate changes in blood flow being pumped from the heart. It’s a common condition that is a risk factor for heart attacks and strokes and is usually controlled with medications when it’s been diagnosed by a physician. There are natural ways to get your blood pressure under control, too, that can help lower the need for prescription drugs.

First, it’s important to understand that blood pressure fluctuates a lot— one reading in the doctor’s office is not enough to get an accurate diagnosis. If you have a blood pressure cuff at home, it’s a good idea to take your pressure several times throughout the day on different days to get an average of the results. The American Heart Association guidelines consider 130-139 over 8089 as Stage 1 hypertension. “Normal” readings should average less than 120 over 80.

Often, people with hypertension may not experience any symptoms at all. Still, there are some signs to watch for: lightheadedness, dizziness, and headaches. High blood pressure develops over time and some of the contributing factors can be diet, smoking, lack of exercise, stress, age, and even some prescription medications.

A NATURAL APPROACH

Some things you can do to lower blood pressure naturally are:

• Exercise regularly by walking, bike riding, or practicing yoga

• Eat a healthier diet, especially by reducing saturated fats, alcohol, caffeine, and processed foods

• Lose weight—even dropping 10-20 pounds can have a significant effect

• Get at least 7-8 hours of sleep every night

• Certain targeted food supplements can help, too. Magnesium, in particular, is very effective as a vasodilator to improve blood flow.

As mentioned earlier, stress is a big contributing factor to hypertension. Choosing to make peaceful changes to our lives can be very beneficial. Even suppressed emotions can take quite a toll on our wellbeing; learning to identify and be aware of issues that trigger feelings of anger, guilt, pain, and other strong emotions can be a big step toward healing. Meditation, biofeedback, and controlled breathing exercises can be very helpful in learning to release those deeply-held emotions.

If you are currently under a doctor’s care for high blood pressure and are on prescription drugs, remember that practicing these natural approaches may affect how much medication you need. Never stop taking anti-hypertensive drugs without first discussing it with your physician. Self-monitor your blood pressure by checking it regularly and be sure to keep your healthcare provider informed of any changes you are experiencing so they can adjust your medication, as needed.

A Desert PAlette

By Marcia Nelson

Red is a color that the desert flora grooms, for the spiny Hedgehog’s flowers or the Ocotillo’s blooms.

Blue is the sky on any given day, as Arizona neighbors all come out to play!

Yellow is the sun that bakes us to a tan and heats the summer air maybe more than we can stand!

Orange is the color for the sunset’s bright array. It paints the Superstitions, saying good-bye to the day.

Green is for cactus and for Palo Verde trees, the grass on the golf course, and yes, there will be fees!

Purple is illusive. It awaits the desert storm, and then like magic on the Sage, a purple haze will form.

IN THE KITCHEN WITH MARSHA MARSHADORRIS

NO-BAKE MINI KEY LIME PIES

CRUST:

• 1 ½ c graham cracker crumbs

• 1/3 c unsalted butter, melted

• 2 Tbsp granulated sugar

FILLING:

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

• ½ c fresh key lime juice (or regular lime juice – I used 11 key limes to get 1/2c of juice)

• 1 tsp. lime zest

• 1 c heavy whipping cream, cold

• 2 Tbsp powdered sugar

• Optional: A drop of green food coloring

For Garnish:

• Lime slices and zest

• Whipped cream

Prepare the Crust — Mix the crust ingredients:

In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter and sugar. Mix until the texture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture into the bottoms and up the sides of a muffin pan lined with cupcake liners. Use the bottom of a spoon or glass to compact it tightly. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes.

Make the Filling:

In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, lime juice and lime zest until smooth. (Add the green food coloring at this time if using)

Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Do not over beat. Fold half of the whipped cream into the key lime mixture to lighten it, then gently fold in the rest.

Fill the Crusts: Spoon the key lime filling into the prepared crusts, smoothing the tops. Refrigerate the pies for at least 2 to 3 hours, or until set. Top each pie with a dollop of whipped cream, a slice of lime and a sprinkle of lime zest before serving. Recipe calls to store in the refrigerator, but I prefer it in the freezer and just take out 5 to 10 minutes prior to serving.

Recipe compliments of Clara - Quick Dinners

Any questions or comments please contact Marsha at Marsha.Dorris.Realtor@gmail.com

Beat

TRIBUTE BAND LIVE MUSIC CONCERT TO BENEFIT AJUSD

JULY 18, 2025, 6 PM

Apache Junction Performing Arts Center

2525 S Ironwood Dr., Apache Junction, AZ 85120

By: Pam Burks

Make a road trip to The Cars fundraiser concert and help raise money for an important Apache Junction School District improvement project—upgrading the Cactus Canyon Jr. H.S. sports field

The Cars tribute band will bring you cool live music to break the summer heat. The band Broken Lullaby plays popular 1980s rock ’n’ roll music by The Cars!

They will turbocharge your engines and keep them revving through the entire concert. You won’t want to miss out on The Cars experience, because they are the Ultimate Driving Machine.

Let’s all vroom-vroom to the finish line and buy your tickets before they sell out Click on the link or scan the QR code below—tickets are only $25 per person.

Come early! The first 100 purchasers at the student-run concession stand—serving a slice of pizza and a beverage for $5—will receive a souvenir mini race car. The concession

stand will be located in the gym next to the Performing Arts Center and will open at 4 PM.

Doors open to the concert at 5:00 PM; the concert begins at 6 PM

Come on! Get your motors running and rev up your engines for a night of fun! You’ll be dancing in your seats and helping your local school district earn money for essential improvements that will make us all proud.

The students and staff want to be part of the solution by working together to improve their schools, one project at a time.

Hurray for the AJUSD, which will be planning more creative, community-oriented, out-ofthe-box projects and fundraisers to give our students the facilities, classes, and amenities they deserve—ones we can all be proud of.

https://ajpac.ludus.com/200483992

REAL ESTATE FOR YOU LORI BLANK

ASSOCIATE BROKER

LORI BLANK & ASSOCIATES, LLC

WHY TIMING YOUR HOME PURCHASE RIGHT MATTERS MORE THAN YOU THINK

For many people, buying a home is one of the most significant financial decisions they’ll make in their lifetime. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of home shopping, but it’s crucial to consider more than just the aesthetic appeal of a property. Timing is everything, especially in the world of mortgages.

If you’re thinking about buying a home, it’s essential to understand how timing can impact your mortgage rate and overall purchasing power. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned real estate investor, making your move at the right time could save you thousands of dollars in the long run.

Interest Rates and the Cost of Borrowing

The interest rate on your mortgage can make a huge difference in how much you’ll pay each month, and even more significantly, the total amount you’ll pay over the life of the loan. Mortgage rates fluctuate based on several factors, including the state of the economy, inflation, and the Federal Reserve’s monetary policy. In times of economic growth, mortgage rates tend to rise as the demand for borrowing increases, while in times of economic uncertainty, rates may fall to stimulate spending and investment.

Knowing when mortgage rates are at their lowest is key to saving money. Even a small difference in your interest rate can lead to big savings. For instance, on a 30-year loan, a rate that’s just 1% lower could save you thousands of dollars in interest over the life of the loan. If you’re in the market for a home, it’s wise to keep an eye on interest rate trends and consider locking in a favorable rate when possible.

Seasonality and Housing Market Trends

Just like mortgage rates, the housing market itself follows seasonal patterns. Generally speaking, spring and summer are considered the “hot” seasons for real estate. Families with school-

aged children often want to move before the new school year begins, which leads to increased demand for homes. This surge in demand can drive up home prices, making it more competitive to buy.

On the other hand, the winter months tend to be quieter in terms of real estate activity. Fewer people are shopping for homes during the colder months, which may create opportunities for buyers to negotiate better deals and avoid bidding wars. While there may be fewer listings, homes that are on the market during this time might be more motivated to sell, which can work in your favor.

Personal Readiness and Financial Considerations

Timing isn’t just about the market – it’s also about you. Are you financially ready for the responsibility of homeownership? Assess your credit score, debt-to-income ratio, and savings for a down payment before jumping into the market. Lenders will evaluate these factors when determining the terms of your mortgage, so making sure you’re financially prepared can increase your chances of securing a favorable rate.

While you can’t control the housing market or interest rate fluctuations, you can time your purchase strategically and make sure you’re financially prepared for the long-term commitment. With the right timing and preparation, you’ll be able to find the best mortgage deal and ensure a smooth and successful home buying experience.

FINANCIAL FOCUS® MATTRUPPERT QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR FINANCIAL ADVISOR

You should always be able to ask as many questions as you’d like when working with your financial advisor. So, before you have your annual review, think carefully about what you’d like to ask.

Here are a few suggestions:

• Are my goals still realistic? When you first began working with your financial advisor, you may well have articulated several financial goals. For example, you might have said that you wanted to pay for most of your children’s college education, or that you’d like to retire at age 55, or that you hope to travel internationally every year during retirement. In fact, you could have many different goals for which you’re saving and investing. When you meet with your financial advisor, you’ll certainly want to ask whether you’re still on track toward meeting these goals. If you are, you can continue

which entails greater risk. In any case, it’s important to consult with your financial advisor to determine your risk tolerance and use it as a guideline for making investment choices.

• How will changes in my life affect my investment strategy? Your life is not static. Over the years, you may experience any number of major events, such as marriage, remarriage, loss of a spouse, birth of children or grandchildren, changing jobs or illness leading to early retirement. When you meet with your financial advisor, you will want to discuss these types of changes, because they can affect your long-term goals and your investment decisions.

• How are external forces affecting my investment portfolio? Generally speaking, you will want to create an investment strategy based on your goals, risk tolerance and time horizon. And, as mentioned, you may need to adjust your strategy based on changes in your life. But should you also make changes based on outside forces, such as interest rate movements, political events, inflation, new tax legislation or news affecting industries in which you have invested substantially? Try not to make long-term investment decisions based on short-term news. Yet, talk with your financial advisor to make sure your investment portfolio and spending strategy are not out of alignment with relevant external factors.

By making these and other inquiries, you can help yourself stay informed about your overall investment picture and what moves, if any, you should make to keep advancing toward your goals. A financial advisor is there to provide you with valuable guidance — so take full advantage of it.

LIVE IT WELL SUESCHAFFER OWNER LIVE IT WELL PLACE

LIVE EVERY MOMENT

“Stop and smell the roses” is an idiom that means to relax; to take time out of one’s busy schedule to enjoy or appreciate the beauty of life. It conveys the idea of taking time to appreciate and enjoy the present moment and finding joy and beauty in the intricate details of life. It promotes an approach to life that values the quality of experiences over the quantity of achievements.

Although it is impossible to find exactly where the phrase first originated, the golfer Walter Hagen used to say, “stop and smell the roses” and Mac Davis sang a song by the same title in 1974 with these important admonitions:

Hey Mister

Where you going in such a hurry

Don’t you think it’s time you realized

There’s a whole lot more to life than work and worry

The sweetest things in life are free And there right before your eyes

Before you went to work this morning in the city

Did you spend some time with your family

Did you kiss your wife and tell her that she’s pretty

Did you take your children to your breast and love them tenderly

Did you ever take a walk through the forest

Stop and dream a while among the trees

Well, you can look up through the leaves right straight to heaven

You can almost hear the voice of God

In each and every breeze

As we transition into the summer months, it is an opportune moment to reflect on our blessings and recognize the significance of the most important individuals and aspects in our lives. Scientific studies suggest that nature contributes significantly to human wellbeing. The simple act of appreciating elements such as a dandelion or a rose may have a profound impact on our overall happiness.

Stopping to smell the roses is a way to acknowledge and identify the positive aspects in our lives. It is important to take the time to observe the daily moments that bring joy and understand the factors that contribute to this feeling. Recognizing and appreciating moments of joy can significantly improve wellbeing, happiness, elevated mood, and connectedness to others.

Engaging in pleasurable activities and sharing or demonstrating them to others not only enhances the positive sentiment but also promotes joy within the community. This collective experience fosters happiness and gratitude among all participants.

The phrase “stop and smell the roses” transcends its literal meaning of appreciating flowers or nature; it serves as an impetus to approach life with a heightened sense of gratitude for one’s surroundings. The difference in wellbeing, happiness, sense of elevation, and level of connectedness to other people, can be significantly higher for those who spend time noticing and savoring these moments of clarity and relaxation.

It also suggests the importance of decelerating and acknowledging daily occurrences and interactions, fostering a presence at every moment that allows for deeper appreciation beyond

mundane. This entails intentionally focusing one’s mind to remain aware and attentive to the present context, thereby enhancing the ability to experience and appreciate the environment more fully.

One must inhale, to ‘smell’ the roses and an exhale of pure joy for the experience follows. So too, can we find the present moment in our breath. Simply by breathing in and out we draw our attention inward. An effective exercise to consider involves identifying a pleasant scent, such as that of a lemon or a fragrant flower like a rose and then engaging in mindful breathing. Simply inhale and exhale. Extend your breathing to be long and slow – fill the nostrils with the scent of happiness and exhale out all the stress and worry of the day. We also highly recommend downloading the superbly written lyrics by Mac Davis from 1974. These lyrics are sure to bring a smile to your face, and you may find yourself recognizing all the words and singing along.

For as Mac Davis wisely said: You got to stop and smell the roses

You’ve got to count your many blessings everyday

You’re gonna find your way to heaven is a rough and rocky road

If you don’t stop and smell the roses along the way

A peace rose from the author’s late mother’s rose garden.