Littlejohn Law - November 2021

Littlejohn Law - November 2021

Build It, Protect It, Preserve It.

740-314-4829 • LittlejohnLawLLC.com THANKFUL ON THANKSGIVING FOR FREEDOM, FAMILY, AND MORE r s t o 10 November 2021

October has finally passed, and we’re entering the coldest months of the year. Regardless of how you feel about the snow and cold weather, these months bring some of the best holidays of the year. One holiday coming up holds a special place in my heart: Thanksgiving. While I certainly enjoy the food and football, it’s the reason for celebration that truly resonates with me. Thanksgiving is a time to show gratitude for the many blessings we are fortunate enough to receive. I’m extremely thankful for my family. My wife, two children, my parents, my grandparents, my brother, and so many more have been a blessing in my life. With their love, support, and encouragement, I have been able to accomplish many things that would not have been possible without them. Whether it’s practicing law, performing martial arts, or a number of other activities, I know my family will always be by my side encouraging me to be better. As my children grow older, I can only hope to replicate the behavior and interactions my parents had with me. They

have been a great inspiration to me, and I’m thankful for everything they have done.

In addition to my family, I am also thankful for our veterans. They continually make sacrifices so we can live our lives free. We can never repay the debt owed to them for their service. Thanking them for their service and thinking about their efforts during Veterans Day and Thanksgiving is truly the least we can do. During the current turmoil our country faces, I’m thankful for everyone who is standing up for everyone’s individual freedoms as it relates to COVID-19. In our great country, we have all been blessed with the right to choose. Regardless of how you feel about the vaccines, it’s important to remember that you can decide what is best for you. I am thankful I live in the greatest country in the world and that we have certain inalienable rights. It’s through the hard work, sacrifices, and dedication of our military men and women that we have these rights. I would be remiss if I failed to share my appreciation for my team and our clients. The team at Littlejohn Law is amazing at what they do and is easily one of the best in the business. Each person plays an important role in our day-to-day operations, and we would not be here today without everyone’s efforts. People have plenty of options for legal representation, and I am so thankful our clients chose us to help them. You have

entrusted us with your difficulties in your time of need, and I hope we made things easier. After our initial meetings, we have continued to help many of you, and I’m grateful for the opportunity. I’m also thankful to go into court and advocate on behalf of our clients. I can stand up and fight for what’s right for our clients, and we’re allowed to do that because we live in a great country. As you sit down to enjoy your Thanksgiving meal, remember the real reason behind the holiday. We have so many things in our lives to be thankful for. Let’s be sure we take the time to appreciate them.

“I can stand up and fight for what’s right for our clients, and we’re allowed to do that because we live in a great country.”

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The Benefits of Positive Relationships Good for Mind and Health

The political climate in America is more divisive than ever. The two major parties constantly blame each other for the problems our country faces, and families are finding themselves split on where they stand. We have the right to decide our positions on a number of hot-topic issues, but no matter how hard you may try to avoid it, the dreaded political conversation may still sneak in. Here are four tips to keep family political discussions friendly and healthy. Avoid Trigger Words and Topics Families can discuss many things during a holiday dinner that have nothing to do with politics. Talking about school, careers, and vacations is a great way to try to avoid politics. If you’re trying to stay away from political discussions, avoid bringing up anything about current or past presidents, vaccines, or any other politically charged topic. If you avoid talking about politics outright, you won’t have to worry about navigating them. Create Ground Rules If your family is notorious for heated political arguments over holiday meals, it can help to create some personal ground rules so things do not get carried away. If you come in knowing you have different political views from someone else, be ready to simply agree to disagree from the get-go. If anything, it may help keep things civil. Find a place to draw the line, and if the conversation heads in that direction, simply walk away. Value Everyone’s Viewpoints Not everyone has lived the same experiences you have. While you might think their viewpoints don’t make sense, they have lived through experiences that justify them in their own mind. Just accept this. If you expect to change everyone’s stance During the Holiday Season 4 Tips to Navigate Family Politics

Connecting with other humans in a positive way is one of the most profound experiences we have. That positivity is one of the greatest virtues — it’s contagious, and engaging in

happy relationships with others is extremely important not only for our minds but also for our health.

Longer Lives Studies have actually shown that when people are involved in positive relationships, they live longer. This is likely attributed to decreased stress, as stress can exact a toll on the entire body. Positive relationships can also encourage us to

give up negative habits such as drinking or smoking, which cause many health problems and concerns. Healthy habits can help people live longer lives. Quicker Healing Positive people in our lives can distract us from pain, remind us to take medication, be our advocates, and simply reduce stress. And less stress means healing takes place faster. Those who have a support person feel more confident and prepared to undergo surgeries and fight illnesses as well. Boosted Immune Systems It makes sense — people who have less stress have stronger immune systems. During times of high stress, our bodies are more susceptible to illnesses because our immune system’s ability to fight off antigens is reduced. The stress hormone corticosteroid can also lower the number of lymphocytes available to fight infection. However, when we are in a happy and loving relationship, our bodies produce oxytocin, and we are less likely to get sick. Better Physical Shape Being in a positive relationship, especially a romantic one, can provide the motivation to be the best version of ourselves. This includes our physical condition, too! Having a friend or workout partner to encourage accountability and even push us out of our comfort zone a bit at the gym can keep us motivated. Being in a positive, healthy, and happy relationship means we listen to each other, offer advice, openly communicate without judgment, practice respect and trust, and engage in healthy activities together. So, it’s no surprise that positive relationships work wonders for our health and happiness.

on major issues, you will walk away disappointed. Value what they are saying and try to see it through their eyes.

Avoid Alcohol Intake While you might want to hide near a bottle to avoid these conversations, try to avoid drinking what’s in it. Alcohol is more likely to increase emotions and can push a civil conversation over the edge, turning things ugly quickly. If you know your family will discuss politics, avoid drinking alcohol.

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What’s New With Me and My Own?

Attorney Littlejohn is excited for the upcoming release of his business and personal development book, “From the Mat to the Courtroom — How to Find Success in the Struggle.” On Nov. 7, 2011, Attorney Littlejohn was sworn in by the Ohio Supreme Court as an attorney. That’s 10 years as an attorney. WOW, the time flies!

Shout out to Marilyn Mwasi! Marilyn has been our intake Client Care Specialist for a little over three months. She’s one of the first voices you’ll hear when you call the office. Marilyn has been a great addition to the team.

Zade’s getting ready for his tongue tie surgery.

LOCAL BUSINESS PROFILE: YOU!

BAKED CORNBREAD AND CHORIZO STUFFING

Spicy, savory, and sweet, this unique stuffing will level up your Thanksgiving table.

INGREDIENTS

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1 lb Mexican chorizo 1 white onion, chopped 1 carrot, chopped 1 celery rib, chopped 3 garlic cloves, chopped 2 cups premade cornbread, crumbled

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1/4 cup cilantro, chopped 1/2 cup chicken stock 1 tbsp unsalted butter, for greasing Cilantro, for garnish Cotija cheese, for garnish

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DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat your oven to 350 F. 2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chorizo for 5 minutes. Add the onion, carrot, celery, and garlic. Cook for 10 additional minutes. Stir in the cornbread and cilantro. 3. While stirring, slowly add the chicken stock. Stir until absorbed. 4. Butter a small casserole dish, then add the stuffing in an even layer. Bake for 20 minutes, garnish as desired, and serve!

Attention Local Businesses! We are always looking for a local business to feature in our mailed monthly newsletter. You could be next! If you are interested, send an email to [email protected].

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INSIDE

THIS ISSUE

1

Thankful on Thanksgiving

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The Benefits of Positive Relationships

2

4 Tips to Navigate Family Politics at the Holiday Table

3

What’s New With Me and My Own?

3

Will You Be Our Next Business Profile?

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Baked Cornbread and Chorizo Stuffing

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Lowering Holiday Stress

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.

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.

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