One Jar, Countless Smiles KICK OFF THE NEW YEAR WITH GRATITUDE The start of a new year always feels like a blank page full of possibilities. While many families dive into resolutions and goal-setting, try another tradition just as powerful (and a lot more fun): creating a family gratitude jar. Instead of focusing on what to change, this little project helps you notice and celebrate what’s already good in your life. With nothing more than a jar, scraps of paper, and a few minutes daily, you can build a collection of joyful moments your family will treasure all year. GETTING STARTED Pick a container. It doesn’t have to be fancy. A mason jar, decorated tin, or clear plastic container all work as long as they can sit where you’ll see them daily. Prepare the supplies. Cut paper into squares (3-by-3 inches works nicely) and have pens, crayons, or markers nearby. If someone doesn’t love writing, they can draw, circle options, or dictate for an adult to write. Have extras ready so you’re never scrambling. Set a daily ritual. Decide together when you’ll pause to think and share. It could be after dinner, tucked into bedtime routines, or first thing in the morning. What matters is consistency. Stick with it long enough that it becomes part of your rhythm. Use a simple prompt. Here’s an easy method: Ask each person, “What was a bright moment today?” Encourage them to name something specific, even if it’s small, like “the puppy barking” or “a funny joke.” Give them space. Then have them write or draw it, slip it into the jar, and (if you like) share aloud. Make it meaningful later. Open the jar together once a month or at the end of the year and read through the notes. You’ll be surprised how small moments you may have forgotten feel powerful all over again. Use them to spark intention for the coming year: “I want more of that,” or “Let’s do more kind acts like this.” Starting a gratitude jar is about building a modest, consistent habit that opens your eyes to abundance. Over time, the jar becomes a treasure chest of your family’s stories, reminders, and unseen miracles. That collective memory anchors your family in kindness, wonder, and connection as each new year unfolds!
DON’T LET BLACK ICE CATCH YOU OFF GUARD STAY SAFE BEHIND THE WHEEL THIS WINTER Even a short winter in Georgia can create unexpected hazards on the road, and black ice is one of the most dangerous. Unlike snow or frost, black ice is nearly invisible. This thin, glassy layer blends seamlessly with asphalt. It often forms when temperatures drop below freezing, from rain, mist, fog, or melting snow that refreezes overnight. Black ice can appear without warning, so it’s vital that drivers remain alert whenever temperatures hover around freezing. HOW TO STAY SAFE ON THE ROAD Bridges, overpasses, shaded roads, and quiet backstreets are especially prone to icy patches because they don’t receive much warmth from the sun or friction from passing vehicles. But no matter where you drive, avoid cruise control and leave plenty of space between you and the car ahead. When navigating potentially icy roads, always reduce your speed, avoid sudden lane changes, and plan for extra time on your journey. WHAT TO DO IF YOU HIT BLACK ICE If your car starts to slide, the key is to stay calm. Ease off the accelerator and gently steer in the direction you want your car to travel. Overcorrecting can make a skid worse. For vehicles with antilock brakes, hold steady rather than pumping the brakes. In cars without antilock brakes, maintain firm brake pressure while keeping your heel on the floor. Slowing gradually and steering smoothly is safer than sudden maneuvers. THE BEST WAY TO PREPARE FOR WINTER EMERGENCIES Winter in Georgia may be brief, but it can be unpredictable. Freezing temperatures, ice, and snow can create road hazards and power outages. If you’re stranded in your vehicle, stay inside for warmth and safety. Run the engine occasionally and keep your hazard lights on. Recognize early warning signs of frostbite and hypothermia and seek help immediately. Local warming centers provide safe spaces and transportation during extreme cold. If you need to find a nearby shelter, text SHELTER and your ZIP code to 43362 .
Stay alert, plan ahead, and respect the road. Your safety and the safety of your loved ones depend on it.
You can always reach Kevin directly at 404.566.8964 or Kevin@PatrickTrialLaw.com. (If you ever need it, his cellphone is 404.409.3160.)
2 • KEVINPATRICK.LAW I 404.566.5880
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