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Keep Improving This Holiday Season
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We’ve heard Christmas songs on the radio for months already. But there’s one song — not technically a holiday song — that always resonates with me this time of year: “Better Days” by the Goo Goo Dolls. It’s not your typical holiday tune, but its message reflects the season in a way that feels honest and hopeful. This song reminds me of what the holidays represent — not just gifts or gatherings but a chance to pause, reflect, and look forward to something better.
“And you ask me what I want this year, And I try to make this kind and clear, Just a chance that maybe we’ll find better days.”
What a simple yet profound wish. It’s easy to get wrapped up in the holiday rush, thinking about what to give, receive, or accomplish. But deep down, the best gift is the possibility of “better days.” We all crave a kinder and more connected world — a world where we’re moving forward with purpose.
simply being there for each other. Faith, trust, and peace are gifts that outlast any holiday season.
“‘Cause I don’t need boxes wrapped in strings, And designer love and empty things, Just a chance that maybe we’ll find better days.”
And then, finally, a connection to Christmas:
We may feel like we need material things to celebrate the holidays, but this line reminds us that these “empty things” aren’t what truly fulfill us. The real gifts — love, understanding, and peace — are priceless. They aren’t things we can wrap up or put under the tree, but they are the most enduring treasures of the season.
“And the one poor child who saved this world, And there’s 10 million more who probably could, If we all just stopped and said a prayer for them.”
What a wonderful reminder that a single act of kindness or a moment of compassion can change someone’s world meaningfully.
“So take these words, And sing out loud, ’Cause everyone is forgiven now, ’Cause tonight’s the night the world begins again.”
The song concludes with a simple but important wish:
“I wish everyone was loved tonight, And somehow stop this endless fight, Just a chance that maybe we’ll find better days.”
The idea of forgiveness and fresh starts is something we can all embrace. This season is about mending what’s broken, reaching out to those we may have drifted away from, and forgiving others and ourselves. There’s something sacred about starting over, especially when reflecting on the year that’s passed and looking forward to the one ahead.
At the heart of it, the holidays are about love, peace, and a wish for a world free of conflict. It’s a season to set aside differences, embrace loved ones, and extend compassion to everyone, even those we don’t know. So, a toast to you this holiday season: I wish you a little more kindness, a little more peace, and, of course, better days. Merry Christmas.
“I need someplace simple where we could live, And something only you can give, And that’s faith and trust and peace while we’re alive.”
We all want simplicity and peace, values that are easy to lose sight of in today’s hectic world. During the holidays, we can return to the basics: being present with loved ones, sharing a meal, and
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THE FELINE-FLYING MILITARY TACTIC THAT NEVER TOOK OFF CAT-APULTING INTO HISTORY Preserved for posterity at the University of Pennsylvania, the “Feuer Buech” reminds
Throughout military history, you’ll find strategic experiments ranging from the genius to the downright bizarre. But few can top the zany brainchild of Franz Helm, a 16th-century German artillery aficionado whose bright idea left historians — and cat lovers — utterly bewildered. Let’s set the scene with Helm’s magnum opus, the “Feuer Buech,” published in 1584, a treasure trove of (literally) explosive innovations in warfare. Imagine this: a battlefield in the Renaissance, not just filled with the clang of swords and the thunder of cannons, but also — wait for it — flying, flaming cats. Yes, you read that right. Franz Helm’s groundbreaking military tactic involved jetpacks for cats. Picture a kitty, strapped with a sack of gunpowder, zipping through the air like a furry missile aimed at enemy strongholds. The hope? These feline projectiles would scamper back to their homes — presumably in enemy territory — and start a blazing inferno. One can only wonder about how they would train cats to become arsonists. The method was straightforward: kidnap an enemy cat, strap it into a gunpowder-laden backpack, light the fuse, and hope Mr. Whiskers doesn’t get cold paws about blowing up its evil overlords.
us of the lengths human creativity can go — especially when combined with a profound misunderstanding of cat behavior. As any cat owner will tell you, cats have their own agendas. The chances of a cat completing its fiery mission are about as high as it bringing you the morning newspaper. Thankfully, we have no evidence that this pyrotechnic plan ever came to pass. Considering cats’ notorious independence, we can rest assured that no self-respecting felines took part in these explosive escapades.
So, next time you’re cuddling with your cat, be thankful its biggest inclination is to knock pens off your table rather than infiltrate enemy castles with fire.
BRIGHT SOLUTIONS TO HOLIDAY LONELINESS
While December is typically a festive time for gathering with loved ones and friends, not everyone can enjoy this holiday gift. Whether due to logistical challenges or physical limitations, some individuals may find themselves home alone over the next few weeks. This isolation, combined with the inclement weather typical of this time of year, can sometimes lead to feelings of despair. Here are a few quick tips to help brighten your day when dark skies, harsh weather, and the inability to travel leave you feeling lonely. Thrive Through Thoughtful Acts Not having visitors this holiday season doesn’t mean you won’t get to spend quality time with good people. If you have an open schedule over the next few weeks, December is a fantastic time to connect with your community through volunteer activities. From clothing and food to a friendly face and listening ear, many people have significant needs this time of year and could benefit from your company, help, and kindness. Donating your time to charities and local organizations committed to making a difference in the lives of others can go a long way toward making you feel valued as you work to add positivity to the experiences of less fortunate people. Nurture Your Mind, Foster Your Future Spending our days alone in winter can be challenging to our mental well-being, making it critical to implement plans to maintain a
positive attitude until spring arrives. If you’re struggling to start the day on a happy note, try welcoming each morning by listening to a favorite piece of music, reading an inspiring quote, or thinking of three things you’re grateful for. These simple actions will help engage your mind while keeping it away from the negative. You may also consider keeping a journal to track your energy level and outlook throughout a day or week. If your attitude or vigor dips at certain times, plan for activities that will keep your spirits high. You may be amazed by how minor adjustments to your routine can improve your mindset when wintertime malaise sets in.
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New Year’s Day will be here before we know it, leading many of us to make resolutions ranging from improving our overall health to staying in better touch with the people we love. When it comes to staying fit, it can be difficult for some people to make regular trips to the gym or invest in at-home exercise gear. Here are a few reminders that sometimes everything we need to keep our bodies in peak physical condition is right under our roofs. Step up your leg strength. When bringing a step machine into your home isn’t an option, look no further than the stairs you walk up and down daily. Taking just a few minutes each day to perform repetitions on your stairs will benefit your cardiovascular system while giving your legs and feet a solid workout — without the expense of added equipment. It’s also an excellent way to promote weight loss, as it leverages gravity to make your legs work overtime and burn more calories. With enough consistency, you’ll likely see your body become more toned as your quads, abs, glutes, and calves get the attention they deserve. Craft arm strength with your countertops. If you’d like to improve the condition of your arms but traditional push-ups on the ground are a challenge, you can achieve a similar effect by using your countertops instead. Stand about shoulder-length away from a counter in your kitchen, stabilize your back, and bend your elbows to lower your chest toward the counter. Performing these standing push-ups consistently will help you maintain your arm strength and flexibility without putting strain on your lower body. Maximize movement with simple chores. Whether you commit to your exercise regimen at home or elsewhere, the goal in either setting is to keep your body moving to the best of your abilities. Sometimes, regularly performing seemingly simple chores like rearranging furniture, vacuuming, or cleaning household appliances does more to help the body than we realize. If the traditional round of holiday meals and activities leaves you feeling sluggish, list things to do around your home that will give you a headstart on spring cleaning and help sharpen your physical strength and mental clarity. Helpful Hints for Home Fitness Where Wellness Wins
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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!
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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 Holidays Are a Time for Better Days
Unravel the Myth of the 16th-Century Rocket Cat Boost Spirits in Solitude Get Fit Without the Gym Helpful Resources Foods to Avoid for a Good Night’s Sleep
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AVOID THESE FOODS FOR BETTER SLEEP
For the estimated 1 in 3 Americans who struggle with insomnia, avoiding sleepless nights is a top priority. Most people know to ease into relaxing activities and avoid blue light from digital devices for at least an hour before bedtime. However, avoiding certain foods that can keep you awake is just as important. Here are four of the worst culprits. Rhythm Wreckers Cheese lovers, beware! Tyramine, an amino acid found in fermented and aged foods, including cheese, tends to trigger the release of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter that can raise blood pressure. Alcohol also is believed to interfere with circadian rhythms by disrupting the body’s sensitivity to natural sleep cues, such as waning light in the evening. Acid Igniters For the estimated 1 in 5 Americans who suffer from acid reflux, the food and drink consumed before bedtime are pivotal to sleep quality. Foods that trigger this gastrointestinal disorder include spicy items and high-fat dairy products like ice cream. Sadly, popular party fare, which includes cheese, tomato sauce, alcohol, and carbonated drinks, also can trigger heartburn. Tummy Troublemakers As enjoyable as carbonated beverages may be, they can cause gas, bloating, and general stomach discomfort, preventing you from settling into sleep.
Other potential triggers of stomach problems include citrus fruits, which have a high acid content that can fuel stomach acid. Citrus also acts as a natural diuretic, prompting you to awaken in need of a bathroom at night. Hidden Caffeine Avoiding the caffeine in coffee, energy drinks, and soft drinks is a no-brainer, but certain teas can disrupt sleep, too. While even the highest-caffeine teas, including yerba mate and black tea, have less than half as much caffeine as a standard cup of coffee, all true teas — so defined because they are made from the Camellia sensinis plant — still have enough caffeine to disturb sleep. Only herbal teas like chamomile, peppermint, and hibiscus brews are caffeine-free. And chamomile, in particular, contains the added benefit of a plant-based compound called apigenin, which calms the brain.
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