It’s holiday time again and I just love Thanksgiving! Last night my daughter and I were talking about how disappointed we are if we are invited out for Thanksgiving and the food isn’t good. Then we get all bummed out because we have to wait a whole year to eat this kind of food again – in bulk – with little or no guilt! That’s something to be thankful for – gluttony with no guilt! So, usually, we just cook it ourselves!
Holiday time brings another joy besides food. Don’t get me wrong, food is high up there. But, for me, it’s extra special when I can be with all my daughters in one place! It’s one of the few times that all 5 girls can make the time to come from the 4 corners of the earth and share a few days with mom. And this year, we have an extra bonus – their dad is coming, too. We haven’t had the whole family together at one time for a holiday in over 10 years!
So, all this family time, and seeing the girls all grown up (sort of) has given time to reflect on my own estate plans. Don’t tell my secret, but my own estate plan isn’t up to date. You know that famous quote about how the shoemaker’s children go without shoes? Well, it’s the same with lawyers.
Discuss estate planning
But, this year, I am resolved to talk to my girls about what I want for my later years and also discuss estate planning. I am even trying to give some of my stuff away, but they won’t take it! I know this is hard for children to talk about, none of us wants to think about our parents aging. But, since I preach these topics all day to my clients, it’s time that I take stock and make sure that me and my children are all on the same page.
I think the end of the year is a good time to put your affairs in order. It’s a good time to look at your old wills, powers of attorney (did you know the law just changed in November on Powers of Attorney?), Medical Directives, and Living Wills. It might be time to think about setting up a Revocable Trust or doing a Lady Bird Deed. And it will cost you nothing if you come to see me. My estate planning consults are free. And, while you’re there, ask about Long-Term Health Care Planning. We might need to take a look at some Elder Care issues such as Medicaid Planning. After all, we already paid for Medicaid in every single paycheck, right?
Call now and get a free Estate Planning consultation. Don’t wait until it’s too late!
Happy Thanksgiving!
Debra G. Simms, Esq.
