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April 2025
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THE FOOD THAT BRINGS US TOGETHER A FAMILY HISTORY, ONE BURRITO AT A TIME
Burritos, Fajitas, and a Little Confusion These days, I don’t eat burritos as often as I used to. Let’s just say my diet has changed since my childhood and college years. However, burritos remain a family favorite, especially with my youngest daughter. She’s always preferred burritos over tacos. I even got her a burrito blanket at some point (yes, one of those oversized fleece wraps that make you look like a human-sized tortilla). I may have even bought her two. But what’s not to love about a burrito? There’s something about the universal appeal of portable, customizable, and always tasty food. And in my family, burritos aren’t the only Tex-Mex food to make an impression. My wife’s family had their own memorable introduction to the cuisine, thanks to a little mixup involving fajitas. My father-in-law was first introduced to fajitas while in San Antonio during a job search many years ago. His discovery immediately blew him away. As soon as he returned home to Chicago, he shared the dish with my mother-in-law, who did her best to re-create it. But something was apparently lost in translation. Instead of sizzling steak, onions, and peppers, she made something resembling a stir fry — complete with carrots, cucumbers, and broccoli. They ate and enjoyed it, but only after a move to San Antonio did my mother-in- law find out what an actual fajita tasted like. And THAT reminds me of the first time I had fajitas. It was at the Texas State Fair in Dallas, and I remember they were something like $1,000 a fajita. Well, probably not that much, but it was enough so that my sister and I had to share one. But, oh wow, that fajita was so good I can still remember it today! More Than Just a Meal All this talk of burritos and fajitas isn’t just to make us hungry. Thinking about these stories reminded me again of how much food connects generations and brings families closer together. My mom’s burrito wasn’t the most authentic on the block, but it was full of love. Now, my daughter carries on the tradition, showing that some things never go out of style. Even a recipe lost in translation, like my in-laws’ fajita stir fry, can create memories passed down for years. So, happy National Burrito Day! You can bet that when I celebrate, it will be with Mom’s recipe. I’ll just add a little extra cheese and try not to lose anything in translation.
I know I talk a lot about food here and that’s because some of my best memories are tied to meals, especially the ones that remind me of family. It’s probably not marked on your calendar, but April 4 was National Burrito Day. Like many of you, I don’t celebrate it officially, but burritos have been a staple in my life for as long as I can remember. From my mom’s frugal, freezer-friendly version to my daughter’s burrito-first approach to dining, I’ve had plenty of reasons to celebrate a good burrito. Burritos With Mom I could describe my mom’s cooking in many ways, but “frugal” and “practical” definitely fit most of her meals. And what’s more practical and cost-conscious than a homemade burrito? Mom’s burritos were simple but delicious — ground beef, refried beans, salsa (Pace, because all that other stuff was made in New York City <gasp!>), and cheese, all wrapped up in a flour tortilla. Now, I don’t know where she got her recipe. My mom grew up in Alaska, which isn’t exactly a hotbed of Tex-Mex cuisine. Still, burritos became a staple in my house. And they weren’t just for dinner. Mom often made extras to wrap in plastic and freeze for later. Mom would pack these in my lunch and I would often have them as a quick snack, microwaving them like gourmet convenience food. I think my dad probably took some, too.
-Aaron Miller
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Protect Your Wallet and Your Pet’s Health
Are You Missing Out on This Money-Saving Option?
What kinds of strange things could be in your dog’s stomach? According to veterinarians, dogs find socks weirdly delicious, and at least one has swallowed an engagement ring! These stories sound funny — until it happens to you. All pet owners try to keep their dogs out of the holiday chocolate or their cats from nibbling on poisonous houseplants. Still, fewer than half have insurance to cushion the financial blow if an unexpected visit to the vet becomes necessary. Insurance is growing in popularity, with about 24% of U.S. pet owners opting for coverage, but that’s a small number given that nearly 70% of households have a pet. More people have pets than children these days! Like any family member, a pet’s medical needs should be part of the household budget. Average pet health insurance premiums are between $10 and $50 per month, with most people paying $354 annually. Additional options like dental coverage may make sense depending on your pet’s breed and habits. The cost is worthwhile compared to paying out of pocket for an unexpected surgery, up to $7,000.
Arbor Day, celebrated this year on April 25, is a chance to dig deep and nurture the environment while creating lasting memories with your kids. Rooted in the love of trees, Arbor Day is a perfect opportunity to teach your little ones the importance of caring for our planet while having fun outside. With wildfires destroying millions of acres of trees annually, the need for replanting has never been greater. Planting a tree is a hands-on way to make a difference; kids love getting their hands dirty. Plus, it’s more than just a lesson in environmental stewardship — it’s an activity that promotes exercise, teamwork, and pride in watching something grow. Start the adventure. Choose the perfect tree and location. Let your children take the lead in selecting a spot with the right amount of sunlight and plenty of room for growth. Once you’ve gathered your tools — a spade, mulch, soil, water bucket, and, of course, your tree — the real fun begins. Together, dig a hole just the right size for the root ball. While the adults may handle the more technical steps, like trimming roots that twist or grow in circles, kids can pitch in by scooping dirt and getting up close to nature. As you settle the tree into its new home, explain how the roots will anchor it and how its leaves will turn sunlight into energy. After planting, the work doesn’t stop! Teach your children how to water the tree properly — soaking the root ball without overwatering. Build a mulch ring together and explain its purpose in keeping the roots cool and moist. Then, it’s time to watch it grow! Chart the journey ahead. Planting a tree is just the beginning of a long-term adventure. Encourage your kids to measure the tree’s growth, sketch its leaves, and write about its progress in a journal. Snap photos together to document its transformation, and talk about trees’ vital role in providing oxygen, shade, and habitat for all of us. This Arbor Day, take a moment to plant more than a tree — plant a memory. Working together as a family teaches lessons in responsibility, environmental care, and the joy of nurturing life. Plus, the smiles and laughter along the way? Those are the real treasures. CREATE LASTING FAMILY MEMORIES THIS ARBOR DAY LEAF A LEGACY AND PLANT A TREE!
Pet insurance is just like many human health insurance plans. When you take your insured pet to the veterinarian, you pay the bill upfront and then file for reimbursement
with the insurer. Pet policies fall into three general areas — illness and wellness check-ups, only well check- ups, or accident-only coverage — but they can be combined.
You can save money by comparing the coverages of large insurance carriers against pet- specific carriers. You can also ask your current insurer about bundling coverage with your renter’s, auto, or
homeowner’s policies. They may even have a discount for enrolling multiple pets. To ensure you
get the right policy, find out what is excluded from coverage, like preexisting conditions. It can be helpful to confer with your vet first about your pet’s medical needs for a good fit. Medical care is essential for pets. Budgeting insurance coverage for them can save your sanity and wallet if an emergency arises. Without it, a simple accident can really blow a hole in your finances.
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When Stress Takes a Toll on Your Skin
Why Stress Rashes Happen and How to Handle Them
remedies can be a lifesaver. Antihistamines like Benadryl or Zyrtec can help calm the histamine storm, while cortisone cream works to reduce inflammation. These treatments can soothe the itch and help you find relief until the rash fades away. Of course, addressing the root cause — stress itself — is key to keeping these rashes at bay. Whether you practice mindfulness, take up yoga, or simply carve out a little “me time” in your busy schedule, finding ways to manage stress can do wonders for your mind and skin.
Ever noticed that itchy, splotchy skin patches pop up just when life feels most overwhelming? You’re not alone. Stress rashes , raised, red or pink patches on the skin, are your body’s way of waving a stress flag. Let’s dive into this peculiar skin response and uncover why your body might be itching to tell you to relax. When stress levels rise, your body activates a chemical chain reaction involving the hypothalamus-pituitary- adrenal (HPA) axis. This biological pathway triggers the release of cortisol and other stress hormones. At the same time, mast cells — a critical part of your immune system — jump into action, producing histamine, the pesky chemical behind that itchy, irritated skin. The result? A stress rash or hives that can leave your chest, neck, or stomach feeling uncomfortable and inflamed. These rashes are often temporary, disappearing within 24 hours. However, this doesn’t make them any less annoying, especially if they keep returning during high-pressure moments. So, what can you do when your stress shows up on your skin? Over-the-counter
The next time you spot a stress rash, remember that your body is giving you a nudge to slow down and breathe. A little TLC, both for your mind and your skin, can go a long way. After all, life’s challenges are easier when you feel comfortable in your own (rash-free) skin.
Low-Sugar, No-Bake Cheesecake
Inspired by AllRecipes.com
Ingredients
• 3/4 cup graham cracker crumbs • 3 tbsp butter, melted • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 1/2 cup milk • 1 (1 oz package) sugar-free cheesecake-flavored instant pudding mix • 2 pints fresh strawberries, sliced
1. In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, butter, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Press evenly into an 8-inch pie pan. Refrigerate until set. 2. In a large bowl, using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat cream cheese, then add milk and blend until smooth. 3. Add pudding mixture to cream mixture and blend on low speed until completely mixed. 4. Spoon half the filling over the crust, add a layer of strawberries, then spread the rest of the filling over them and top with remaining strawberries. 5. Cover and refrigerate for at least an hour before serving. Directions
TAKE A BREAK
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214.292.4225 www.AaronMillerLaw.com 1400 Preston Road, Suite 118 Plano, Texas 75093
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INSIDE THIS ISSUE
1
Food, Family, and a Recipe Worth Remembering
2
The Shocking (and Avoidable) Cost of Uninsured Veterinary Bills Planting Memories and Trees This Arbor Day
3
Why Your Skin Reacts to Stress (and How to Calm It Down)
Low-Sugar, No-Bake Cheesecake
4
Mastering the Art of Nature Photography
QUICK TIPS FOR BETTER OUTDOOR PHOTOS Capture Nature’s Beauty Like a Pro
Consider Composition In photography, composition is key. When taking nature photographs, apply compositional rules such as the rule of thirds (placing subjects off-center), leading lines (guiding the eye with pathways or rivers), and framing (using natural elements to highlight the subject). Experimenting with different perspectives and angles can also add depth to your photos. Be Respectful Whenever you’re out in the field, respect the environment by following local guidelines, maintaining a safe distance from wildlife, and minimizing your impact on natural habitats. Always stay on designated paths and never remove any natural objects. Following a few simple rules protects wildlife and the landscape and maintains the integrity of your photography. With these tips in mind, you’re ready to enjoy the outdoors while capturing images that reflect the beauty of the natural world.
Nature photography offers a great way to get outside and capture the beauty of the natural world. Whether you’re new to this hobby or have been snapping photos for years, you can always enhance your skills with these four tips for producing compelling outdoor photos. Plan Ahead Before heading outside with your camera and other gear, research your chosen location and the subject you aim to photograph. Understanding the local wildlife, plant life, and weather conditions can inform your equipment selection. Timing is also key. Early morning and late afternoon, known as the “golden hours,” offer soft, diffused light that enhances natural scenes. Master Your Equipment Be sure to familiarize yourself with your camera’s settings. Some of the most important include aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, which control exposure and depth of field. For instance, a wide aperture (low f-stop) can help create a shallow
depth of field and isolate your subject from the background, which is particularly effective for wildlife photography. Conversely, a narrow aperture (high f-stop) is ideal for landscape shots because it increases the depth of field and helps keep more of the scene in focus.
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