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1000 WORDS OR 1000 MEMORIES?
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“We keep this love in a photograph, We made these memories for ourselves, Where our eyes are never closing, Hearts are never broken, And time’s forever frozen still.” — Ed Sheeran, “Photograph”
As I boxed up old photo albums during our recent move, I came across countless photos of family, friends, and places that transported me back in time. My mind immediately went to the old quote: “A picture is worth a thousand words.” But that quote fell short — these weren’t just unmoving images on paper; they were windows into stories, feelings, and moments forever etched into my brain. What struck me is that a picture is worth far more than a thousand words — in truth, “a picture is worth a thousand memories.” Walking down the aisle; our kids in all different phases; the smell of campfires up north; the blazing red rocks of Arizona; smelling the salty air and feeling the sand in your toes while watching the sunset over the Gulf — these images take us far beyond the visual, calling on all our senses to remember the experience itself. Every photo is a tiny time capsule that, when opened, releases the emotions of a moment in a way that nothing else can. They are like bookmarks in the story of our lives, reminding us where we’ve been and who we were with. They connect us to the past, allowing us to relive the event shown and the little details we may have forgotten. You might see the grainy image of my first car and tell me that it was an old rust bucket that would be lucky to start on most days (which is true, by the way). But to me, that image isn’t about the car
— it’s about the hundreds of lawns I mowed to earn the money to buy that car; the freedom I felt driving it for the first time; laughter with buddies on the way to local hoop courts, not a care in the world; and deeper, a symbol of the open roads that stretched out before us. That photo holds memories of people, places, and music that I embraced at that stage of life. Photos are also a moving reminder of moments we can never get back, people we’ve lost, and places we may never visit again. But that’s part of their power — they help us hold onto what might otherwise fade with time. When we look at photos, it’s not the clarity of the picture that moves us but the rush of feelings and memories it unlocks — the laughter shared, the touch of a loved one’s hand, the sense of belonging in that specific place and time. By the time I finished boxing up the photo albums, my perspective had changed. I now understand that while the camera lens may freeze a moment in time, it’s our hearts that capture what the camera cannot: the unspoken words and the meaning that lies beyond the frame. It’s our hearts that make a simple photograph come alive, breathing new life into an old image. So, the next time you hold an old photograph in your hands, remember that it’s not just worth a thousand words — it’s worth a thousand memories, perhaps even more.
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YOUR GO-TO GUIDE FOR HEALTHY FAST-FOOD CHOICES TASTY TAKEOUT TRANSFORMATION
Are you hungry for some delicious takeout but want to keep it healthy? Whether you’re craving spicy Szechuan or dreaming of a cheesy slice of pizza, we’ve got your back with the ultimate guide to guilt-free takeout! From swapping out egg rolls for lighter spring rolls to skipping your hamburger bun, discover how to indulge in your favorite cuisines without compromising health. So, grab your fork, and let’s dive into the menu of nutritious takeout options that will satisfy your cravings and keep you healthy. Avoid fried foods. Many of the most popular dishes
choosing a veggie burger instead of a regular burger with bacon or a baked potato instead of fries can make all the difference. Manage your portion sizes. Many fast food joints serve big portions you can split into two meals, so always watch how much food you order. Avoid supersizing your meal and stick to the smallest serving sizes for sides, drinks, and main entrees. Our favorite takeout hack is to check out the kid’s menu. The children-size hamburgers at most restaurants typically contain only 250–300 calories, so you will still get a solid serving of protein with less fat — and save a little money. Skip the add-ons. When you crave fast food, every calorie counts. Say no to add-ons or extras for your meal, like bacon or cheese. Sauces and dressings often have extra calories and sugar, so avoiding them or asking for them on the side is best. If you want condiments on your food, like mayonnaise, ask them to add only a light amount or ask for sauce packets so you can control those extra calories. Some healthy and tasty swaps for flavor are avocado, hummus, or salsa. So, remember these tips to keep your meal delicious and healthier next time you’re in the drive-thru line. You can enjoy a world of flavors without sacrificing your well-being by making mindful choices and small swaps.
at fast-food restaurants are battered and fried. Look for items on the menu that are baked, steamed, roasted, or grilled, as they are healthier alternatives. Fried foods are high in calories and trans fat, which could negatively impact your health. Simple swaps like
In today’s fast-paced world, having a sharp and reliable memory has become more critical than ever. Fortunately, recent advancements in neuroscience have revealed new techniques to help us improve our cognitive abilities and retain information more effectively. Here are four scientifically backed tips to transform your memory and unlock your full potential. Exercise your brain and body. Numerous studies have shown that regular physical exercise can profoundly impact cognitive function. When you engage in aerobic activities such as running, cycling, or swimming, you improve your cardiovascular health and stimulate the growth of the hippocampus — the area of the brain responsible for learning and memory formation. Meditate for a sharper mind. Did you know mindfulness and meditation can improve your memory? Researchers have discovered that individuals who practice meditation Neuroscience-Backed Tips for a Sharper Mind
regularly, even just a few minutes a day, exhibit increased brain volume in the hippocampus, resulting in enhanced memory performance.
Nourish your brain with the right fuel. The saying “you are what you eat” is true for brain health. A diet rich in low-sugar, low-refined carbs and healthy protein and fat sources can support optimal cognitive function. These foods provide the building blocks your brain needs to keep your memory sharp and thinking clear. Practice improves memory. Practicing regularly is one of the most effective ways to improve your memory. Whether memorizing song lyrics, reciting poetry, or even just trying to recall your daily tasks, the more you challenge your brain to store and retrieve information, the better it will become.
So, what are you waiting for? Start exercising, meditating, fueling your brain, and practicing today — your future self will thank you.
MichiganEstatePlans.com • 888.487.6150
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Sudoku
People have employed lasers, chemical peels, injections, and facelifts in the war against aging skin. While these more extreme measures can be temporarily effective, they can be hard on the wallet and much more cumbersome than natural remedies. Another tool in our arsenal against the effects of aging is our diet. Since our skin ages more like milk than wine, it only makes sense that we eat more fruit (as well as herbs and vegetables). Here are four skin care superfoods that can boost skin health! Blueberries One key ingredient to healthy skin is antioxidants, which help protect skin cells from aging and can even help minimize wrinkles. Fortunately, blueberries are full of antioxidants, such as anthocyanins and flavonoids. They also contain a healthy amount of vitamin C, which has been proven to improve skin firmness. Dark Chocolate Who knew delicious desserts could contribute to healthier skin? Unlike milk chocolate, dark chocolate contains antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that help improve the texture and radiance of your skin. I guess it’s time to give in to the dark side! Kale It won’t kill you to eat kale. In fact, kale is one of the most nutritious foods out there! Best of all, it is full of antioxidants and vitamins to make your body’s biggest organ (your skin) look new again! If you have an aversion to eating greens, you should know that kale also comes in purple varieties. Thyme Everyone has heard of herbal remedies, and one herb in particular has some proven benefits for rejuvenating skin. According to research published in the scientific journal Nutrients, thyme is full of antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins that can help contribute to healthier, smoother skin. SUPERFOODS FOR MORE RADIANT SKIN
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Helpful Resources • Is your estate plan up to date? Ask us about our FREE Estate Planning Checkup. Call our office or email Julie@mtolaw.com. • Don’t miss Glenn on “Senior Law Radio,” WHMI FM 93.5 every Sunday at 8 a.m. You can also listen live (or to previous shows) on WHMI.com. • Questions about your money? Do you need help with your financial goals, investment management, or retirement planning? Glenn has partnered with his personal financial advisor, Brad Jerome, to bring expert financial services to our clients. Brad meets with you right in our office — no cost, no obligation, and no pressure — just an opportunity to discuss your goals with a top-notch financial advisor to see where your path might lead. You can reach Brad directly at 517.301.3070. • Let us be your trusted advisor for all your legal matters. We’ve grown with the referrals we receive from our clients. We want to return the favor by helping you find a great attorney outside of estate planning, elder law, and probate. Our clients often call us in need of an attorney who focuses on personal injury, auto accidents, elder and nursing home abuse, workers’ compensation, Social Security disability, and many other areas. To get the best results, you need an experienced attorney to help. If you want a referral, call our office or email Julie@mtolaw.com. We are glad to help!
MichiganEstatePlans.com • 888.487.6150
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MichiganEstatePlans.com • 888.487.6150 915 N. Michigan Avenue, Suite 6 Howell, Michigan 48843
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What’s Inside? 1 2
The Worth of a Photograph Enjoy Your Favorite Orders Without the Guilt Neuroscience-Inspired Strategies for a Sharper Mind A Diet for Healthier Skin Helpful Resources
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Is Your Neighborhood Affecting Your Health?
HOW YOUR ENVIRONMENT SHAPES YOUR WELL-BEING
Have you ever wondered if your neighborhood might be impacting your health? According to a recent study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, where you live can significantly influence your risk of developing heart disease and stroke. Let’s examine how your surroundings might play a more significant role in your well-being than you think! Nature’s Medicine — Green Spaces Imagine waking up and taking a stroll through a lush park. Sounds nice, right? Well, it turns out that having green spaces nearby is more than just pleasant — it’s good for your health! Dr. Sarju Ganatra from Beth Israel Lahey Hospital in Massachusetts shared with AARP that exposure to green spaces is linked to lower stress levels, better moods, and improved overall well-being. Parks also promote social interaction and community bonding, which are great for your emotional health! The Dangers of ‘Food Deserts’ Now, let’s talk about food. If your neighborhood has limited access to fresh produce and healthy food options, you might be living in what’s known as a food desert. Research shows that people in food deserts are at a higher risk of obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Our environment influences our health, including the availability of nutritious food. So, having a farmers market or a store with fresh produce nearby can make a huge difference.
Steppin’ Up and Out Well-constructed and maintained sidewalks encourage walking, which is essential for maintaining heart health and overall fitness. A safe and walkable neighborhood can significantly impact your daily exercise routine. If your sidewalks are in bad shape, staying active and getting your steps in is harder, so reach out to local leaders or groups to advocate for their repair. Next time you step outside, take a moment to consider your surroundings. Does your neighborhood have plenty of green spaces, easy access to fresh food, and good walkability? These factors might seem small, but they significantly affect your health. Your neighborhood is more than just where you live — it’s vital to your overall well-being.
Offices: Howell | Clinton Township
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