While this is not usually something I would blog about (Death is never a "fun" topic) I've found myself contimplating how to help people after the experience I've had this last month.

I'm usually very upbeat, but I want to share with you a different perspective.  This month has been a challenge for our family with my stepdad being killed in a skydiving accident in Colorado and my husband's uncle passing away from cancer.  I immediately left to be with my mom and provide support.  Little did I know, the amount of work that would be required during that time.  For those of you who have never experienced this before, I liken it to planning a wedding (chapel, flowers, invitations, minister, etc) in three to four days.  The situation was made worse because there was no living trust or current will in place, so dealing with the aftermath will take a lot of time.  I believe if he had known this was going to happen, he would have prepared better so my mom would not have to deal with estate problems in addition to her grief. 

Because of this, I'm encouraging everyone I know (for the sake of your loved ones) to plan ahead.  I understand that death is not something we want to think about but now I understand the importance of planning for it.   

Because I value relationships, I want to provide some information that will benefit you and your family and inspire you to action so your family won't have the same experience we had.  Below is a link to a great website recommended to me by my accountant.  It contains important information and a simple but thorough legacy book that can be purchased to give clear instructions to your family.

  www.familyloveletter.com

In addition, I want to highly recommend that you make an appointment with an attorney to start planning your estate.  If you don't have one, I'd be happy to provide the contact informaiton for mine.

We don't know when we will die, so please take care of your business so someone else won't have to. I know having my estate already planned has given me a peace of mind through all of this.  We have all heard the saying, there are two things in life that are inevitable... death and taxes.  Contact a professional to make sure you are prepared for both! 

I know this is not as positive as my normal stuff, but my intention is to give you food for thought on a serious subject.  I hope this finds you and your family well.  And I pray you make the choice to plan your estate if you haven't already done so.  For those of you who have, bravo!   Your family will be thankful.