Brooks & Crowley - December 2021

Creating a Holiday Masterpiece How to Decorate Your Gingerbread House Like a Pro

One of the most popular holiday traditions has become making and decorating gingerbread houses. The tradition began in Germany in the early 1800s and originated from Grimm’s “Hansel and Gretel.” Some shy away from the idea of making their own gingerbread house, but have no fear — if the Germans did it in the early 1800s, so can you! To simplify things, many gingerbread houses come with baked pieces and a full decorating kit. This helps you have more time for the best part: the actual decorating! Each kit usually comes with fun candy and icing, so you can make something really kick-butt for the holidays! Icing will be your best friend. Think of it as the yummy glue that holds everything together while also acting as a colorful trim for your

gingerbread house. However, because it’ll keep the house from falling, be sure to use a lot! Spice drops also make for a great trim and “roofing,” just use icing to hold them in place. Alternate between colors or use a variety to make your house really pop. M&Ms are certainly a must-have for anyone decorating their gingerbread house. Not only are they delicious, but they also make cute little accents all over the house and yard. Mini cookies of your choice may also make a deliciously good-looking roof. Try layering them up for a dimensional look! And, for extra pizazz, strategically place mini candy canes throughout the yard and on either side of the front doors and windows. If you want to get really detailed, try using actual candy bars as fire logs in the fireplace. Just be sure to store your gingerbread house in a cool area so nothing will melt! Whether you prefer a simple gingerbread house or a flashy one, any and ALL candy can be used! Get decorating and be sure to have a bite of candy along the way!

Why Take Pictures of a Car Accident?

Car accidents are scary, and the aftermath of one can be overwhelming. In the chaos, it may slip your mind to take pictures of the accident. But this is more important than you may think. Many people fail to take pictures after an accident because they are in shock. Others may fail to take pictures because they do not know how powerful these photographs are as evidence. Photos from the scene can show proof of the cause of the accident, what factors may have had a role, and the damages sustained. Having car accident photos can make the difference between successful and unsuccessful insurance claims. Consider these suggestions on how to capture the most valuable evidence after a car accident. Property Damage and Surrounding Areas These include internal and external damage to any vehicles, buildings, or signs. Be sure to take photos of skid marks, debris, and any other evidence that shows the accident occurred.

Even if the traffic signs and buildings aren’t damaged, you should still take a picture of them. It can help reconstruct how the accident happened. Context is important because the surrounding areas can be used as evidence, even if you don’t think they are relevant. Injuries This is one of the most important things you can capture. Take pictures of your injuries when they first occur and also the days following your accident. For example, if you need stitches, take a picture before the stitches and as you heal. Witnesses and Police Officers You may not recall all the people present during the accident, so it is helpful to know who was there should you need to talk to them later. Try to snap photos of people on the scene. Vehicle Information Although it is important to take pictures of your car and its damages, you should also record the

make, model, and license plate numbers. It may also be helpful to ask law enforcement to record the driver’s license, insurance, and registration information of the other driver. Take any additional pictures you think you may need or you believe are relevant. These photos will come in handy while talking to insurance companies and working with your attorney. Do you have any questions about gathering evidence after an accident or need any assistance related to a car accident? Allow Brooks & Crowley to help you! Give us a call at 781-251-0555. Our firm would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

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