I’m a fan of the minimalism movement. The idea of simplifying my life, by removing those things that are unimportant or don’t add joy or utility to my life, speaks to me. Of course, being a fan of something and…
From Plato, to the Stoics, to Bob Dylan and more, thinkers have long recognized that change is the law of life. And like everything else in your life, your estate plan should grow and change with you. Which leads to…
April – spring, and renewal, and hopefully many gorgeous, sunny days, when the weather is perfect. Also, tax time. For an estate planning attorney, keeping updated on the latest federal tax numbers from the IRS, including estate and gift tax…
April 16, 2023 is National Healthcare Decisions Day (“NHDD”). NHDD was founded in 2008, by a health care lawyer, to inspire, educate and empower the public and providers about the importance of advance care planning. NHDD is an initiative to…
This picture is of a mixing bowl I remember my grandma mixing chocolate chip cookies in and a well-loved recipe book with her handwritten notes. Although they have little material value, they are two of my most-prized possessions. They remind…
In my work-day world of estate planning in St. Louis, Missouri, creating peace of mind for my clients and their loved ones, during all seasons of life, is my focus. I am primarily thinking about protecting my clients and their…
Your Estate Plan is a Gift to Your Loved Ones Happy Valentine’s Day! This month I think about how important estate planning is – not just for ourselves, but for the people we love. This Valentine's Day, show your loved…
What is Probate? To answer why you should avoid probate, it’s important to start with an explanation of what probate is. Probate is the court process by which a deceased person’s property is distributed when there is no clearly and…
Overcoming New Year's Over-Resolving With the Power of Small Steps It’s January, again. I love January, partly because I love New Year’s resolutions. The opportunity to start over, do better, be better – improve myself, my life, my business –…
Happy New Year! Here at The Estate Planner, we’re excited to welcome 2023. The New Year is a great time for reflection, planning and (for some) making resolutions. Although making healthier choices frequently tops New Year’s “to do” lists, we’d…