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GRATITUDE IN THE FACE OF ADVERSITY
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My usual November article is about being thankful, but this November, it’s about being thankful in a different way. My wife and I have a place in Florida. Last month, we had a life-changing experience that gave us a new perspective on thankfulness and gratitude. We traveled to Florida in early October to assess the damage after Hurricane Helene had torn through the area. During the clean-up process, we were suddenly evacuated, this time for Hurricane Milton, which was set to hit soon after. In the three days we spent in Florida, we witnessed the devastation left by Helene and something even more powerful: the strength of the human spirit. The destruction around us was undeniable — fallen trees, flooded streets, homes in ruins, and local families’ possessions and memories piled along the roadsides. But amid all the chaos, what stood out to me wasn’t the physical damage. It was the people. Neighbors who had lost so much were coming together, offering whatever help they could to one another. The sense of community was profound, whether it was sharing food, offering shelter, or simply providing a kind word of support. These weren’t just acts of obligation — they were acts of genuine care rooted in the shared experience of hardship. There’s something remarkable about how people respond to a crisis. Faced with loss and uncertainty, so many rise up, help others, and rebuild. We saw volunteers bringing supplies, offering labor, and even supporting those struggling emotionally. It wasn’t just the big organizations; ordinary people stepped up in extraordinary ways. We ate at a local place, Solo’s Pizza, and chatted with the owner about life, loss, and the promise of better days. This experience reminded me of the deeper essence of gratitude. We often think of being thankful for material blessings or personal accomplishments. But sometimes, the deepest gratitude comes from witnessing the resilience of the human spirit. It comes from seeing how people, even in the darkest times, find ways to bring light to one another’s lives. I was struck by how quickly people rallied and showed up for each other. No one asked, “What’s in it for me?” Instead, the focus was on “How can I help?” There’s something incredibly hopeful in that — knowing that people have an immense capacity for compassion and generosity when the chips are down.
As I reflect on those days in Florida, I’m reminded of the power of hope. Hope is what drives people to clear debris, rebuild homes, and offer comfort to strangers. It keeps people moving forward when everything around them seems to fall apart. It’s not the naive belief that everything will be perfect but the quiet confidence that we can make things better together. The hurricanes may have caused destruction, but they also revealed the strength and goodness of the people affected. I saw it in the way people shared their stories and expressed gratitude despite their losses. This November, as we approach the Thanksgiving season, I find myself reflecting on a different kind of thankfulness. It’s not about the usual markers of success or comfort but about the resilience of the human heart. It’s about how people come together in times of crisis, offering help, hope, and a reminder that, even in the toughest of times, we are never truly alone. In this season of gratitude, I’m thankful for what my wife and I have and the example of community and kindness we witnessed. It’s a reminder that, no matter how strong the storm, the human spirit is stronger still.
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STROLL YOUR WAY TO HEALTH
Gentle Exercises to Get Fit Without the Fuss
Ever wish you could get a killer workout without feeling like you’re auditioning for a role in an action movie? Low-impact workouts prove you don’t need to jump, jog, or jostle to get your heart pumping and muscles working. Whether it’s stepping into a fitness routine for the first time or rehabbing an injury to meet your health goals, low-impact exercises are a gentle, safe way to get in shape. Grab your water bottle as we power walk through three low-impact routines! Walking Regular walks have many physical and emotional benefits. This exercise is terrific for improving balance, managing weight, and boosting mood, and it’s also free to participate in. Walking is gentle on your body, and you determine your pace. If you want to increase the intensity of your walking workout, walk up a hill or use a treadmill at an incline. If losing weight is high on your fitness goals, strive to walk 30 minutes daily, but remember, every step helps! Pilates Pilates focuses on controlled movements, improving core strength, alignment, and proper breathing techniques. Though this low-impact routine is easy on your joints, you’ll still work up a sweat and improve your strength, balance, and overall quality of life. Pilates also helps reduce stress, enhance sleep quality, and increase energy levels!
isolation and challenges to their self-esteem by pursuing personal passions and engaging in activities that improve their physical and mental well-being. “You don’t have to succumb to what people think life should be like at your age or what people have done in the generation before you,” explains psychotherapist Angela Buttimer. “With conscious aging, you become your own pioneer.” As just one example, Japanese researchers have found that “forest bathing” — walking with friends through a wooded area — can positively affect an older person’s physical, emotional, and spiritual state. On the more intense side of the spectrum, online TV talk show host Donna Chambers (“Limestone Lens”) once shared a story of a 92-year-old friend who found joy in reupholstering her entire RV . Although your “conscious aging” activities will depend mainly on your physical capabilities, the ultimate goal is to prevent stagnation, reenergize your mind, and explore whatever will lead you toward greater vitality and self-fulfillment. Above all, “conscious aging” is about recognizing that we can get the most out of life at any age. As Buttimer says, “Take your power back by making choices that are authentic to you. There are so many opinions out there, such as ‘never color your hair’ or ‘you need to color your hair if you have grays.’ But it’s your choice.” Circuit Training If you want a complete cardio session that’s gentle on your joints and quick to get done, consider creating a circuit training routine. Begin by selecting a series of low-impact exercises like glute bridges or toe taps. You will perform each move for the same number of reps, then move on to the next exercise without a break. Try to complete the entire sequence as often as possible within 15–20 minutes. Circuit training offers a full-body workout perfect for all experience levels. So, if you’re looking for a workout that delivers results without the high-impact drama, low-impact exercises are your ticket to fitness success. Embrace these gentle routines and enjoy the journey to a healthier you — minus the action movie stunts!
Too often, people determine their sense of value and belonging in society by age. Plenty of TV commercials — as well as the cosmetics sections in our local pharmacies and supermarkets — urge us to buy products that help us defy the physical characteristics of middle age and beyond. As our culture continues to celebrate youth, many elderly folks are pushing against the tide by embracing the philosophy of “conscious aging.” The Power of ‘Conscious Aging’
Also known as “conscious eldering,” “conscious aging” is a lifestyle based on the belief that older adults can rise above feelings of
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Did you know Michigan ranks among the top U.S. states for slip- and-fall injuries in wintertime? Ice, snow, and sleet sweep thousands of residents off their feet as Mother Nature delivers the cold, leading to bruised bodies and hospital stays. With the slipperiest season of the year right around the corner, here are a few quick tips to help keep you on your toes — or at least off the ground — when you venture outside. Think function, not fashion. When it comes to staying safe and warm in the coming months, how you dress is more important than how you look. Wearing layers under a puffy winter coat keeps you insulated and helps cushion your fall if you slip on the ice. Be sure to check the condition of your sneakers or boots before the season kicks off and replace them if their soles are worn down. Also, ensure that your gloves or mittens are water-resistant and strong enough to maintain a good grip on objects to steady you. If you need more durable attire but your local stores have already run out, give area thrift shops a try or order what you need online. Give yourself a hand(rail). Winter is not the time to test your bravery. If you need to walk in snowy conditions, keep your hands out of your pockets and use handrails whenever possible. If you need to carry heavy objects while walking, make sure you can toss them aside quickly if you start to fall. Most of all, don’t rush — the smaller the steps you take, the safer you will be. Mind the law — Michigan-style. Of course, you need to be mindful of more than just your safety this season. Last year, slip-and-fall laws in Michigan were revised to mandate home or business owners to clear their properties of snow and ice. Additionally, owners can now be held liable if any snow and ice they leave behind lead to someone’s injury or death. If you expect visitors to your property over the winter, commit to keeping your outdoor areas safe — even if you need to hire someone to do the shoveling and salting. WINTERIZE YOUR SAFETY! WAYS TO STAY SECURE AND SLIP-FREE
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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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The Human Spirit Rises When Facing Adversity Low-Impact Routines Make Fitness a Breeze Graceful Aging 2.0 Tips to Stay on Your Feet Helpful Resources Curb Your Cough: Discover the Soothing Power of Hot Tea
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The rattle of coughing is the soundtrack of winter, and about 1 in 5 adults suffer from coughs during the peak cold and flu season. While coughing can signify serious illness, sufferers need short-term relief more often. You should always ask a health care professional for advice when you are ill. But simpler, natural treatments for an irritating cough may be as close as your kitchen cupboard: A steaming cup of hot tea can soothe irritation in your throat and chest. As winter draws near, consider stocking your shelves with teas offering these therapeutic effects. Anti-Inflammatory Properties Licorice root, chamomile, elderberry, and green tea are all linked to reducing inflammation in airways. Licorice root also has anti-spasmodic properties that can help calm irritated tissues, and it is an ingredient in many leading tea brands, including Traditional Medicinals, Yogi, and Pukka. However, it’s best to consume licorice root tea in moderation. While the U.S. Food and Drug Administration deems licorice root safe, consuming large amounts can cause side effects, including high blood pressure. Soothing, Lubricating Teas While mucilage may sound like the name of an old-fashioned glue, it is actually a viscous, gelatinous plant substance that soothes and moistens irritated tissues. Mucilage is found in teas containing licorice root, marshmallow root, and mullein.
Expectorant Effects An expectorant can lubricate your airways and thin the mucus in your respiratory system. This, in turn, makes your cough more productive, easing discomfort, expelling bacteria, and helping heal your airways more quickly. Teas containing ginger and mullein offer this benefit. Opening Airways Some of the most popular herbal teas also help ease cold symptoms. Eucalyptus teas can help open up constricted airways, and teas containing peppermint and thyme also relieve sinus and cold symptoms. In all cases, you can amplify tea’s therapeutic benefits by adding a spoonful of honey! Honey’s throat-coating consistency soothes irritated tissues.
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