Take a look at the latest edition of Eversole Quarterly!
Eversole Quarterly
Fall 2021
MAKINGTHEMOST OF THE SEASON BY FINDING WHAT GIVES IT MEANING
The holidays should be a joyful time, but they often turn into a stressful one instead. Even though we love to see our families, the process of making it happen can be overwhelming. And then there are the presents, the invitations, and — this year — a predicted post office slowdown that will leave us all worrying whether everything will arrive on time. In other words, it’s a lot. I envy those who look forward to this time of year, but I know I’m not the only person who finds it difficult. Take gift-giving, for example. I’m certainly not the first person to bemoan the commercialization of Christmas, but there’s a difference between a gift given out of obligation and giving a gift out of love. We’re all surrounded by so much stuff, and “gifts” are ubiquitous. In a business environment, everyone gives gifts to build their brand. But we can all tell the difference between a gift given for marketing purposes and one that’s genuine. People should give gifts because they sincerely care about the recipient and want to present them with something special.
We might do well to mirror the intent of our children. When a child draws a picture and presents it as a gift, you can tell it has come from the heart. As a result, you appreciate and cherish the gift that much more. I think we can take a lesson from kids and find a way to compensate for all of the shipping delays at the same time. Maybe we won’t all draw pictures for our family members, but a lot of us do know how to make something, whether it’s through sewing, knitting, painting, woodworking, or some other skill. Baked goods make excellent presents, and the gift of time is also invaluable; spend more time baking cookies, playing games, or doing something else you enjoy with your loved ones. It also wouldn’t hurt to slow down a bit. Many of us have family members who are living all over the country (or even the world); trying to see everyone at once can be challenging. You get to spend a little time with each person, but quality time can be missing. It’s worth considering visiting fewer people or visiting them at different
times of the year — so you can actually enjoy their company.
For other people who struggle with all of the responsibilities and obligations of this time of year, I recommend taking time to reflect. How could you make the kind of Christmas that is meaningful to you? The answer to that question will help you make the most of the season.
-Alysoun Eversole
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Have a Low-Stress Holiday 3 TIPS FOR A MERRIER TIME
The holidays are right around the corner, and while many people can’t wait to eat turkey and swap presents, others only see stress on the horizon. Especially for those hosting parties, between decorations, big dinners, excited kids, and visiting family, it can all feel overwhelming. If celebrations are happening at your house this year, here are three tips to lessen the strain and keep up the holiday cheer. Recharge First Ensure you’re rested and recharged before the holidays by taking time to relax, getting enough sleep, and engaging in activities that make you feel good. When you’re rushing to get everything done, it can be tempting to skip self-care routines, but that will cost you in the long run. Your daily exercise and other health activities keep you balanced and ready to face challenges head-on. Get Started Early Holidays always arrive faster than we expect, so begin preparing early. If shopping for presents is a pain point, don’t wait until the last minute. Decorate earlier than you need to — or better yet, get the kids to do it for you. There’s only so much cooking you can do ahead of time, but ensuring you have all of the equipment and
nonperishable ingredients you need a few weeks in advance
will reduce both your workload and anxiety.
Don’t Expect Perfection The sooner you let go of the
idea of a “perfect” holiday, the sooner you’ll be able to have a happy one. Face it: Something will
go wrong. Whether it’s an overcooked dish, a child throwing a temper tantrum, or your uncle talking politics at the dinner table, nothing will ever go just how you planned. So, embrace the imperfections.
Whether you’re celebrating this year with a group of two or 20, holidays can be a stressful time — but they don’t have to be. With these tips, your festivities may not be picture-perfect, but they will be a lot of fun.
THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME Meet Receptionist Stephanie Harrison!
Stephanie Harrison is glad to be back in South Carolina. After a brief stint in Georgia, she says, “I’ve returned to where I always wanted to be.” Upon arriving, she took on a receptionist role at Eversole Law Firm, where she loves engaging with clients. Stephanie has an eclectic background, and this isn’t her first time working at a law firm. She started as a runner at a law office and ended up staying there about 10 years, moving into secretarial work. Later, she worked at the Hampton County assessor’s office as a secretary and an appraiser. Most recently, she worked for the tax commissioner’s office during her time in Georgia. “I was looking for new opportunities,” Stephanie says, and Eversole Law seemed like a great fit. She spends her average day on the phones, either fielding incoming calls or contacting clients. Noting that most of the staff is female, she shares that she loves having the opportunity to work with so many other women. She also appreciates that the office has a
structured environment while simultaneously encouraging a strong work/life balance.
Stephanie has a 20-year-old daughter who recently started a nursing program. She also has a beloved Shih Tzu. “She’s
an old lady,” Stephanie says. “I’ve had her for a long time. She’s almost 13, and she’s my baby now.” When not working, sleeping, or spending quality time with her dog, Stephanie enjoys many outdoor activities — especially, she says “anything that has to do with water.” What Stephanie values most about her job is building relationships with clients and helping them make their dreams come true. “The best thing,” she says, “is seeing how happy people are after they close and get keys to their new homes.” In all, she’s glad to be back home in South Carolina and to have found a new home at Eversole Law.
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WHYYOU NEED ONE FOR REAL ESTATE PURCHASES What Does a Closing Attorney Do? The home-buying process can seem shrouded in mystery, especially to those entering the housing market for the first time. In South Carolina, a licensed attorney must supervise all real estate closings. But why is this requirement in place — and what, exactly, does a closing attorney do? Once the buyer and seller create a sales contract, the attorney’s job begins. They will reach out to both sides so they can gather the necessary information to complete the transaction. From the buyer, the attorney will need banking documents and inspection reports. They’ll also gather information about outstanding mortgages, loan insurance, and other homeowner documentation from the seller. Examining the title is one of the attorney’s most important responsibilities. They’ll research the historical chain of ownership (dating back at least 61 years). This process involves ensuring that all previous mortgages or liens against the property are resolved. Defects in the title could threaten the new owner’s claim over the property, so the lawyer carefully reviews the documents to confirm everything is in order. After reviewing the title, the attorney will apply for title insurance. Title insurance is an extra layer of protection for the buyer and lender if an unidentified defect later arises. While unexpected claims are uncommon, they can be financially devastating when they arise, so title insurance is a must.
Next, the lawyer will prepare all of the paperwork needed to complete the closing. When the big day finally arrives, the attorney is present to explain the legal documents and ensure that all parties understand what they're signing. After the keys are handed over, the lawyer will verify that all funds make it to their intended destinations and that all paperwork is filed and logged into the appropriate public records. While the buyer generally selects the closing attorney, sometimes a lender or Realtor may suggest a few for the buyer to choose from. Although attorneys in South Carolina represent the buyers, they do have a duty to make sure the lender’s closing documents are prepared correctly. An attorney is required for closings in South Carolina because buying a home is a complicated process. An attorney who knows the ropes makes sure that you won’t go it alone or end up in a situation you’ll regret.
Crispy FishWith Brown Butter Sauce Inspired by BonAppetit.com
Great Truths
Ingredients
• •
1 tbsp olive oil
•
1/2 cup blanched hazelnuts, chopped
4 5-oz Chilean sea bass or salmon fillets, skin-on • Salt and pepper, to taste • 6 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into pieces
• 2 tsp lemon juice • Lemon wedges, for garnish
“In general, the art of government consists of taking as much money as possible from one party of the citizens to give to the other.” –Voltaire, 1764
Directions
1. In an unheated skillet, add oil. Season fish with salt and pepper, then add to skillet (skin-down). 2. Heat the skillet to medium and cook for 4 minutes. With a spatula, press each fillet down, rotating between fillets every few seconds. When the skin begins to crisp, stop pressing and cook 8–10 minutes, then
flip and cook for another minute. Remove the fish. 3. Wipe the skillet clean and return to medium heat. Add the butter and hazelnuts. Heat, swirling continuously, until butter foams and browns. Remove from heat. 4. Stir in lemon juice and season to taste. Pour over fish, garnish, and serve with salad.
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Eversole Law Firm, P.C. 1509 King Street Beaufort, SC 29902 (843) 379-3333 www.eversolelaw.com
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Disclaimer: The content of this publication has been prepared by Eversole Law Firm, P.C. for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as legal advice. It does not create an attorney-client relationship with its readers and may not be used by you, the reader, as legal advice. You are encouraged to consult with us or another attorney about your circumstances to which the information in this document may apply.
What’s Inside
1. Making the Most of the Season 2. Lowering Holiday Stress
Meet Receptionist Stephanie Harrison! 3. What Does a Closing Attorney Do? Crispy Fish With Brown Butter Sauce 4. 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!
CREATING A HOLIDAY MASTERPIECE HOW TO DECORATE YOUR GINGERBREAD HOUSE LIKE A PRO
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