HI, MY NAME IS… Deena Goldstein.
I’VE LIVED IN ARIZONA FOR 16 YEARS AND I LOVE IT BECAUSE… I have some of my family in town and it also offers an amazing quality of life, lots of sunshine, blue skies, and so much to do!
A TYPICAL DAY IN MY LIFE INCLUDES… lots of multitasking during the week. My recently released book, “OK, Little Bird” always starts my day off with marketing, promotions, reader engagement, and often podcast interviews. After tending to that, I’m off to work, assisting seniors and those with physical limitations to stay safe and fall-free at home. My husband and I own Measurabilities Home Safety and work with community providers across the Valley. No matter how busy the day gets, it’s always important to me to reach out and connect with family––near and far––which I incorporate almost daily. I always stay connected with friends and family through calls, texts, emails, and Facetime. And, I always have time for our pup Cookie who gets lots of snuggles and hugs! When the weekend comes, I love to hit my art studio and paint. I’ve been creating and exhibiting multimedia artwork for many years and it’s important for me to set aside painting time. I’m always busy doing something, but I try to strike a balance and enjoy every minute of every day, especially getting to hang out with my husband.
MY FAMILY IS… a lot of fun. We love spending time together. My daughter lives in Florida, so I stay connected with her frequently and plan visits as well. We love hanging out!
ONE THING I CANNOT LIVE WITHOUT IS… chocolate chip cookies. Yes, it’s true, blame it on “Sesame Street’s” Cookie Monster. Say what you will, but I love a good cookie and daily they are around. When they’re not, I’ll bake them (or call my sis. She makes amazing cookies!).
MY FAVORITE MOVIE I COULD NEVER GET TIRED OF WATCHING AND WHY IS… “The Wedding Planner.” I’ve seen it at least 20 times. I love a good rom com!
WHEN I WAS YOUNGER, I WANTED TO BE… a singer. Issues with nodes on my vocal cords and chronic hoarseness due to allergies prohibited me from singing anywhere but my family room!
THE SONG I WOULD SING AT KARAOKE NIGHT IS… hmmm, that’s a tough one. There are so many great songs, but “Burning Ring of Fire” by Johnny Cash would be my song of choice. It was my father’s favorite and fondly reminds me of his visits to our house, when the family would take turns on the karaoke machine. It was his favorite to belt out.
THE ONE PERSON WHO MOTIVATES ME IS… well, me! I know it may sound funny, but I’ve always been very driven, independent, and self-motivated. And, of course, I’m grateful to have such amazing love and support in my life from family and close friends.
THE LAST THING THAT MADE ME LAUGH OUT LOUD WAS… a video of a miniature horse “clip-clopping” down the hallway of someone’s house. It was an Instagram video, and the sound of the little hooves just cracked me up!
THE PERFECT DAY IS… any time I’m with my family; it’s wonderful. My all-time favorite is spending the day with my amazing daughter and wonderful hubby. We could be eating In-N-Out burgers in the car with the windows rolled down, listening to music––the earth could stop its rotation and I’d be happy. It’s so simple, and so much fun. Whether we spend one-on-one time or together, it’s the best. And, if I had the chance to curl up with a great book, hot tea, and a fuzzy blanket and maybe do a little painting in my studio, then I’d be over the moon with joy!
MY FAVORITE LOCAL NONPROFIT IS… the Brain Injury Alliance of Arizona. I’ve collaborated with them often, providing education for fall prevention home safety, and contributing proceeds from the sale of my artwork at local exhibit events. They are an amazing organization and resource, providing so many incredible services for those dealing with traumatic brain injury-related cognitive issues.
MY LIFE IS… blessed, happy, and my cup is beyond full!
THE BEST GIFT I’VE EVER RECEIVED WAS… the birth of my daughter. Although she is not a “gift for me,” she is a gift. Each day, like the first, I adore her and love every moment we share. She’s a wonderful person!
MY DREAM VACATION WOULD BE… any place with sand and beach, and a sidewalk to ride a vintage beach cruiser bicycle, stopping for ice cream, enjoying a light breeze, and the slow pace of the day.
