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April 2025
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I’ve always admired those who have a knack for gardening. There’s something deeply satisfying about stepping outside, picking fresh vegetables or flowers, and knowing you grew them with your own hands. For years, I told myself I didn’t have the time, space, or knowledge to start a garden. But this year, with spring in full bloom, I’ve decided to take the plunge. And if you’ve been thinking about starting a garden but aren’t sure where to begin, let me tell you — there’s no better time than now. Gardening isn’t just about growing food or creating a beautiful space — it’s also incredibly beneficial for your health and well-being. Studies show that spending time around plants can improve mental and physical health. Digging, planting, and tending to a garden get you moving in a way that counts as exercise. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), just 2.5 hours of moderate activity every week can lower the risk of heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, and Type 2 diabetes. Gardening engages muscles in your arms, legs, and back, making it a full-body workout without feeling like one. And let’s not forget the fresh air, the boost of vitamin D, and the undeniable stress relief from spending time outdoors. After long days in the office, I’ll be looking forward to stepping into my garden, even if it’s just for a few minutes. If you’re ready to start your garden, the first thing to consider is location. You’ll want a spot with at least eight hours of direct sunlight daily, easy access to water, and well-draining soil. If your yard has heavy clay or rocky soil, raised garden REFERRALS WELCOME Thank you for referring clients to us over the years. You will never be Sun, Soil, and Stress Relief A Journey Into Gardening and Why You Should Try It, Too
beds might be a better option. And while it’s tempting to plant everything under the sun, starting small is key. A 10-by- 10-foot plot or a 4-by-4 raised bed is plenty for beginners. Pick 3–5 vegetables you and your family love to eat — there’s no point in growing kale if no one is going to touch it! Beginner-friendly vegetables include lettuce, green beans, tomatoes, zucchini, and peppers. They’re easy to grow, don’t require much maintenance, and give you a great first harvest. If you want to add a pop of color and attract pollinators, throw in some marigolds, zinnias, or sunflowers. One of the biggest mistakes new gardeners make is trying to do too much too soon. I’m guilty of getting overly ambitious with new projects, but gardening is a skill that builds over time. Instead of overwhelming myself with too many different plants, I plan to start with just a handful this season and slowly expand my garden year after year. Another thing to remember is that gardening is hard work but should also be enjoyable. Taking frequent breaks, drinking plenty of water, and appreciating your progress are just as important as tending to the plants themselves. And while it’s easy to get caught up in the details — watering schedules, soil composition, pest control — the best thing you can do is just start. So, here I am, stepping into the world of gardening for the first time, with dirt under my nails and a long list of things to learn. If you’ve been on the fence about starting your own garden, take this as your sign to go for it. Grab a few plants, dig in the dirt, and watch something beautiful take root.
embarrassed by a referral to our office. We’re always available to lend a helping hand to anyone with any legal need. Just give us a call at (314) 961-5678 or visit us at BeckLawMO.com .
-Paul Beck
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Bon Voyage! Your Ticket to Adventure TURN YOUR DREAM CRUISE INTO REALITY
As we grow older, life shifts and creates new opportunities we may not have had before — like the chance to finally turn our travel dreams into reality. For many, few travel experiences compare
to the comfort and excitement of a luxury cruise, and these four tips can help make your dream cruise happen. Choose the right cruise line. With luxury cruises, it’s essential to compare lines to get your preferred experience and the most bang for your buck. Consider your personal preferences, but remain flexible with accommodations. A little research will help you find the perfect fit. Plan your perfect itinerary. There are many cruise options, so planning an itinerary aligned with your interests and comfort level is easy. River cruises, for example, are perfect for scenic travel, while ocean cruises provide access to exotic ports of call. River cruises are also quieter and
more intimate. If you prefer a lively atmosphere with plenty of activities, an ocean cruise is the better option. Book smart for the best deals. Just because a cruise offers luxury accommodations doesn’t mean your trip has to break the bank. Take advantage of early-bird deals, off-peak pricing, and loyalty programs to save big. Some companies even include airfare! You can also save with discounts for seniors and military members. Your adventure awaits! A cruise offers the ultimate way to see the world, from exploring iconic cities to relaxing on scenic rivers or enjoying stunning ocean views. Now is the perfect time to embrace new adventures on a luxury cruise.
3 CUSTOMS WITH SURPRISING BACKSTORIES What Wedding Traditions Are Hiding
Weddings are filled with traditions we follow without question, but have you ever wondered where they come from? Many customs we associate with saying “I do” have fascinating and unexpected origins, and these three common wedding traditions have some of the most surprising backstories. Wearing a Veil The bridal veil has a long history rooted in both symbolism and practicality. In ancient Greece and Rome, they believed veils warded off evil spirits and protected brides from bad luck. In other cultures, veils served as a symbol of modesty or purity, particularly in religious ceremonies. Over time, the veil also became a way to heighten the anticipation and
drama of the bride’s grand reveal. Many brides wear them today because veils carry special meaning in their families (or they like the look). Matching Bridesmaids The tradition of having bridesmaids dressed alike also dates back to ancient times and has supernatural origins. Back then, bridesmaids wore identical clothing to confuse evil spirits or jealous suitors who might harm the bride or disrupt the wedding. The practice was a “protective” measure to ensure the bride’s safety on her wedding day. Saving Part of the Wedding Cake Many traditions exist around the wedding cake, originating in the mid-
17th century. One enduring tradition is saving part of the cake to eat later. This was originally a practical, money-saving measure — the saved portion of cake would serve as the christening cake for the couple’s firstborn. Today, many couples eat the preserved top-tier of their wedding cake on their first wedding anniversary as a symbol of good luck!
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TAKE A BREAK
Working toward big goals is a rewarding and exciting process, but it can also feel overwhelming. It’s easy to get bogged down thinking about how far you still have to go, but you can use a simple strategy to maintain your momentum: Focus on small achievements. The Science of Small Wins While seemingly insignificant, celebrating small wins has psychological benefits that can carry over into every aspect of your life. When you celebrate small achievements, your brain releases dopamine, the “feel good” chemical that lifts your mood and motivates you to keep going. This positive reinforcement generates momentum, making it much easier to tackle the next step. WHY EVERY WIN MATTERS Celebrate the Small Things
ARBOR ARIES
BASEBALL CHERRIES CHOCOLATE DAISY DIAMOND FOOLS GARDEN KITE
RAINBOW SHOWERS
Ginger Veggie Stir Fry Inspired by AllRecipes.com
Acknowledging small wins also has a measurable impact on mental health. It reduces stress, improves resilience, and helps build a growth
mindset. Focusing on your accomplishments allows you to alter your perspective, and you
With delicious vegetables seasoned with tangy ginger, this recipe is sure to please vegans and meat-eaters alike!
learn to see challenges as opportunities for growth. Practical Ways to Celebrate Small Wins
Ingredients
• 4 tbsp vegetable oil, divided • 2 tsp fresh chopped ginger root, divided • 2 cloves garlic, crushed • 1 tbsp cornstarch • 1 small head broccoli, cut into florets
• 3/4 cup julienned carrots • 1/2 cup snow peas • 1/2 cup halved green beans • 3 tbsp water • 2 tbsp soy sauce • 1/4 cup chopped onions • 1/2 tsp salt
Incorporating small celebrations into your daily routine doesn’t have to be complicated, so here are three strategies to help you get started. • Track your achievements in a progress journal. Seeing progress in writing can be very rewarding and provide much-needed motivation when things get difficult. • Share your win with friends and family. When you celebrate your achievements with others, you strengthen personal connections and add positivity to the experience. • Reward yourself. Even simple rewards reinforce the habit of recognizing progress and help make the journey more enjoyable. Achieving small goals is always worth celebrating. Acknowledging every step forward, no matter how seemingly insignificant, helps you stay motivated and confident while improving your overall mental well-being.
Directions 1. In a large bowl, mix 2 tbsp vegetable oil, 1 tsp ginger, garlic, and cornstarch. 2. Add broccoli, carrots, snow peas, and green beans, and toss lightly. 3. Heat the remaining oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the vegetables and cook for 2 minutes. 4. Stir in water and soy sauce. Add onion, salt, and the remaining ginger; cook and stir until the vegetables are crisp and tender.
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INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Plant the Seeds for a Healthier, Happier Life Through Gardening
1
Secrets to the Perfect Cruise
2
Wedding Rituals With Unexpected Origins
Ginger Veggie Stir Fry
3
The Psychology of Celebrating Small Wins
Bizarre Tales of Fairy Romance
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WHEN MYTH MEETS REALITY FAIRY TALES IN COURT
Why These Stories Resonate The allure of fairy romance tales remains strong. Modern literature and media frequently draw inspiration from such stories while reimagining them to explore contemporary themes and societal issues. Authors like Philip Pullman, for example, have crafted thought-provoking retellings, such as his “Grimm Tales,” giving us new ways to look at classic ideas. The continued interest in fairy folklore highlights its timeless relevance. Stories like those from Sweden 400 years ago — where claims of fairy romance sparked legal disputes — bridge the past and present and remind us how imagination and belief have shaped history.
In 17th-century Sweden, stories of fairies and other supernatural beings weren’t just the stuff of folklore — sometimes, they even showed up in court. Tales of people falling in love with these creatures fascinated communities and blurred the line between myth and reality. These beliefs influenced real-life events, leading to bizarre legal disputes and societal consequences. Historical Tales of Fairy Romance Documented examples from Swedish history involve people claiming they had romantic relationships with fairies. According to court records, these claims
weren’t uncommon during the 1600s, when many believed in supernatural creatures. Cases often involved accusations of kidnapping, enchantment, and moral corruption, which mirrored the era’s deep-seated anxiety about the influence of otherworldly powers. These stories went beyond the fantastical and were deeply tied to the cultural norms of the time. Accusations often targeted those on the edges of society,
reflecting how supernatural elements could support real- world prejudices. While these cases might sound unbelievable today, they show how folklore influenced people’s actions and even legal proceedings.
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