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HARMONSON HEADLINES YOUR GUIDE TO PERSONAL INJURY IN THE BORDERLAND SEPTEMBER 2023
A BREAK IN TRADITION AND EMBRACING CHANGE How My Son Is Forging His Own Collegiate Path
Despite the family’s long line of Texas Tech Red Raiders, my son plans to break the mold! College football season is here, along with National College Colors Day on Sept. 1, so university life is definitely on our minds here at home. Clayton is now a Senior at El Paso High School, and although he’s still undecided on his choice of college, he’s made it clear that Texas Tech will not be on his list of considerations. My feelings are not hurt! But seeing a break in our college family tradition is interesting. Not only did I go to Texas Tech, but so did my siblings, my parents (started at UTEP but eventually graduated from Tech), and my grandparents! My grandad was one of the founding members of the Texas Tech Saddle Tramps. Growing up, he always had season tickets to the football games, and we went to so many games that I can’t even count. I grew up in Lubbock, and attending Texas Tech made sense for my whole family! Even when my family decided to move to El Paso after I graduated from high school, I stayed behind to start my own education as a Red Raider. Now that my family isn’t in Lubbock, it’s easy to understand why Clayton would decide against becoming a Red Raider himself. He’s never been a fan of the city, and I don’t entirely blame him! He wants to live in the big city and Lubbock isn’t that. So, as he gets closer to starting school, he’s laid it out plain that Texas Tech isn’t one of his choices.
will enrich his future. When it comes to what schools he is considering, he has been eyeing the University of Texas, Rice University, and even schools in Chicago! While I enjoy my visits to Chicago, I can’t imagine going through those bone-chilling winters. So, if he does decide to go to school in the Windy City, he may have to come here to Texas for the holidays instead of the other way around! As for what field Clayton wants to study, he and Claire have expressed that they do not intend to become lawyers! No, my feelings aren’t hurt … that much. Instead, my son wants to study business. Whatever path he eventually takes, I know he’ll find a path that works for him. I mean, I majored in biology! A degree is never a guaranteed indicator of a lifelong career. While we won’t be heading to any Red Raiders games in the near future, I’m still holding out for our daughter Claire, and even our little one, Winton, who’s only 4 years old! Hey, maybe he’ll even choose to be a lawyer, too! This is such an exciting time for Clayton and our family as we watch him move closer to a new stage in life. We’ve toured schools all over Houston, Austin, and San Antonio and still have more to explore this fall. I can’t wait to see where he decides to apply and the new college colors we’ll support.
Am I disappointed? Well, maybe a little , but the kid is brilliant. With his excellent grades and ambitions, he should go to a university he feels I can’t wait to see where he decides to apply and the new college colors we’ll support.”
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THE BLAME GA A CAR ACC
Why You Should Avoid Admitting
Car accidents can leave anyone worried about repair expenses or insurance rates. But you can feel even more distressed if you think you’re the one to blame. It can be tricky to plan your next steps. Before we discuss what to do after an accident, we need to clarify that “fault” defined legally isn’t the same as how we use the word in everyday language.
Understand cause in fact vs. fault. You might think that glancing at a text or not using your signals could be reasons the accident is your “fault”; however, it would more accurately be described as a “cause in fact” instead. When you tell the police or an insurer that the crash was your fault or caused by you, that can lead to a legal admission of guilt that wouldn’t have occurred otherwise.
Housewares stores are currently full of cute autumn decor, but the cost of refreshing your house’s look each season adds up quickly. Fortunately, you can do a lot for less. Many DIY crafts are not as complicated as you might think. In addition to saving money, you’ll create personalized charm none of your neighbors can match. Repurpose your pumpkins. Small gourds are incredibly versatile. Just sprinkling a few around your dining room table or mantle makes it feel like fall. But you can quickly elevate them using metallic paint to add cute designs, phrases, or names. Another option is to wrap seasonal fabric around them like a pouch, gathered at the stem. If you feel more ambitious, you can also use pumpkins to make succulent planters. Cut a crater in the top of the pumpkin, pop in the succulent and soil, and press the dirt until snug. Light up the night. The soft glow of a lantern or candle is the perfect way to get the cozy vibes started. Instead of succulents in the top of your pumpkin, you can set wax and a candle wick to create something unique. If you’re bored with pumpkins, try the same with acorn caps. An even simpler idea involves glazing real or fabric leaves on the outside of mason jars with craft glue. Then add decorative stones and a wax or battery- operated tealight for a seasonal twinkle. Decorate your door. Wreaths are a DIY staple for several reasons. They’re easy for beginners to make and can set the tone for your home by offering visitors an autumnal focal point. You can buy a variety of starter wreaths at the craft store, so find one that suits your taste. Then pick up other supplies like leaves, pine cones, dried corn, and ribbon. Now you’re ready to hot glue to your heart’s content and create something distinctive. If you need further ideas, look closer the next time you shop. Many of the fun fall items for sale aren’t very difficult to make yourself with a few minor adjustments and a little creativity.
A cause in fact is a factor or action that took place before the accident but is not necessarily what defines
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ON THE ROAD TO RECOVERY
AME AFTER CIDENT Fault After a Car Collision
How to Cope With Stress After a Car Collision
fault. What you might think is the cause may not be the official legal cause at all. This is critical to remember because Texas is an at-fault state, meaning that whoever is legally accountable for the accident is responsible for paying the damages. Avoid taking the blame. Because of this legal fine line, we encourage you to avoid taking the blame no matter what. When speaking to the police and insurers, simply tell them the facts of the event. There is no need to provide your insight or opinion. What you say to them could be used against you in court.
No matter how minor the crash, anyone might feel wary of getting behind the wheel after that experience. An accident can be extremely stressful and nerve-wracking, and these emotions don’t just instantly vanish once the accident is over. Feeling anxious, afraid, or distressed after a car collision is normal, especially if the damage was particularly extensive. In fact, motor vehicle accidents are the primary cause of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in the general population. Even if you’re not experiencing PTSD-level stress, you should still work toward recovering from the anxiety rather than ignoring it. Signs You Haven’t Fully Healed From an Accident One of the main ways trauma can interfere with your daily life is through recurring memories of the accident. You may relive the crash frequently, whether through repeated flashbacks or nightmares of the collision. This could hinder your work, ability to sleep, and personal relationships. Some other signs include:
Always speak with an attorney. You should consult an attorney if you are worried about being blamed for an accident. They can help you determine whether the other driver may have some reason to be liable for the crash and defend you from unjust accusations. If you or someone you know has recently experienced an auto collision, contact our team at 915. 584.8777. We’ll help you through this complicated and nuanced process.
• Avoiding vehicles, whether driving or even being a passenger in a car
• Constantly thinking about the accident, not just flashbacks but also the damages you’ll need to cover financially and other stressors caused by the collision • Irritability or mood changes • Feeling worried or anxious throughout the day • Not wanting to talk about or discuss the accident at all Tips to De-Stress and Get Back on the Road If your anxiety is a daily occurrence after the accident, it can quickly overtake your life and even your ability to get behind the steering wheel. You can participate in therapeutic activities that relieve stress, such as exercise, meditation, journaling, and your favorite hobbies or ways to relax. When driving, take deep breaths or even listen to a podcast that can soothe your nerves. Speaking with someone who can listen to your concerns and thoughts is also critical. This doesn’t necessarily need to be a professional. It can be your partner, friend, neighbor, or anyone in your support system. We have helped thousands of good people injured in bad accidents and we have licensed therapists who can assist you if needed to help you get on with your life. After an accident, the Harmonson Law Firm will always be part of your support system. We are here for you if you need further guidance or resources to recover after a collision. Call 915.584.8777 to connect with a compassionate team member, or visit our office!
Spiced Pecan Pie Bars
INGREDIENTS
Crust •
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2/3 cup packed light brown sugar
3 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup honey
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1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
1/4 cup all-purpose flour 1/4 cup melted butter 1 tsp ground cinnamon
3/4 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp salt
Filling •
1/2 tsp salt
4 eggs
1/2 tsp ground ginger 3 cups chopped pecans
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1 cup corn syrup
DIRECTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 350 F. Use baking spray to grease a 13x9-inch pan before lining with parchment paper. 2. In a food processor, blend crust ingredients until a crumble forms. Press mixture into pan. Bake until light golden brown, about 20 minutes (crust will have cracks). 3. In a bowl, whisk all filling ingredients (except pecans) together until smooth. Stir in pecans and pour over crust. Bake until set, around 30 minutes, then let cool completely in pan.
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Clayton Is Deciding on His College of Choice!
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Simple, Affordable DIY Projects You’ll Love Were You at Fault for a Crash?
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Sudoku Spiced Pecan Pie Bars Tips to Overcome Post-Crash Anxiety and Get Back on the Road
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Keep Yourself Safe While Traveling Alone
KEEP YOURSELF SAFE WHILE TRAVELING ALONE
Traveling alone can be a memorable and adventurous experience — it’s a great way to step outside your comfort zone and continue learning about yourself. While solo travel is chock-full of exciting perks, staying alone in a hotel can be dangerous if you aren’t careful to take certain safety precautions. The next time you take a trip by yourself, keep these tips in mind! Check in the smart way. When you check in to your hotel, always ask for two room keys — this way, hotel staff and anyone else in earshot will automatically assume someone else is traveling with you. If they ask how many guests will be staying with you, don’t admit you are alone. If you have the option, request a room that isn’t on the ground floor, as research shows they are the easiest to break into! Inspect your room. As soon as you enter the room, make a quick sweep to ensure no one is present in closets, in the shower, or under the bed and that nothing appears to be amiss. It’s always best to be safe rather than sorry! Keep your eyes peeled. Any time you leave your room, even if it’s just to scope out the vending machines, be alert for anyone watching or following you, and always keep your room number discreet. If you ever feel like someone is following you, get off on a different floor and avoid going to your room.
Use the deadbolt. If the door in your room comes equipped with a deadbolt, use it! This extra safety measure keeps even those with a key from entering your room without your knowing! Share the hotel information. Let your family and friends know where you are staying! Provide them with the hotel name, address, and phone number in case an emergency arises! Traveling solo is a thrilling experience, but it comes with some extra steps to stay safe! Trust your instincts and use these tips to ensure your trip goes down in the memory books as safe and exciting!
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