Planning for the future?

As a couple we plan for things regularly about what we want out of life.  Things such as our jobs, where we want to live, kids or no kids.  Unfortunately, we do not think about planning what happens if one of us dies.  Being my husband was in the military, we were required to have a will on hand and we both had to sign it. I am so thankful we did as it made it easier when he passed away for planning. We had often discussed these things in case things had changed.  Believe me they do!   We moved a few times, and as the kids got older, we felt they had opinions on what was to happen.  We knew we were close to deciding on his retirement as to when that would happen and where we wanted to live when we did retire.

I am so aware this is not anything one wants to consider doing or afford to do. Having your information sitting in probate is not something you want to do.  Especially with the children involved!   Proverbs 15:22 reads – Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers, they succeed.   You do not need many advisors, but I am a believer in talking it over with a close friend who knows how to keep things confidential.  Then contact a legal guardian to get things set up.

The legal documents that are so important are:

• Last Will and Testament
• Statuary Power of Attorney
• Health Care Directive
• Transfer of Death Deed in your county
• Make sure you have someone listed on your mortgage that will access your account upon your death. Transfer of Deed for your property.

I would also suggest that you:

• Have your wishes in writing regarding how you want your funeral.
  • Not everyone wants to be buried so please be specific in your wishes.
• Take the time to write your obituary.   I know this sounds crazy, but I have seen so many obituaries that are not written well.
  • My kids have thanked me for doing this and I have a feeling so will yours.
  • Also, even though one has the power of attorney, all three have my information.  It seems every time I update something and send it off to them, they thank me.

 There is a lot of valuable information on making sure you handle all items correctly.  May I suggest looking at a couple of good websites. Take a look at these for some guidance.

• From the Widow Might Organization – www.widowmight.org/firstthingsfirst 
• Miriam Neff’s website – http://widowconnection.com/for-the-widow/finances/

These things may depend on the ages of your children (if you have them). It is a good idea to update your information every 3 – 5 years.  Things can change quickly. God does desire us to plan accordingly.  Psalms 20:4 reads:  May he grant you your heart’s desire and fulfill all your plans!

Those that know me well, know I have ‘preached’ this subject often!   None of us know when it is our time to die but having our plans in order makes it so much easier for those we leave behind. Be sure you have someone close who knows where you keep these documents.

I know this is not a topic we want to discuss.  However, it is so important as I know of many who have not done this and many who are sitting in probate because they have not taken care of it.

I pray each of you will pray for direction on this topic.  If you need advice, talk with your pastor, priest of rabbi or a close friend. May God richly bless each of you.  You all continue to be in my prayers!