Five Reasons Why I don't Have a Will

Five Reasons Why I don't Have a Will

One: I hate my children and want them to never speak to each other again after the battle over my estate.

Two: I hate my spouse and want him or her to suffer the agony of attempting to probate my estate without a will.

Three: I think foster care is great and I want my minor children placed there while a court decides which greedy relative will get custody.

Four: My family doesn't need the money so I want the government to take as much of my estate for taxes as possible.

Five: I have reliable information that I am never going to die.

Of course the above is written tongue in cheek. However the tragedy of the Twin Towers, the battle over freezing Ted Williams body, and now the sniper shootings in the D.C. area are bringing to more Americans a deeper realization of their own mortality and that of their loved ones. The American Bar Association estimates that 70% of Americans do not have a will. The median age of those killed in the terrorist attack on the World Trade Center was 39 and over two thirds of those killed were men. This is the age group least likely to have a will and the court battles will last for many years after the physical scars are erased.

A case in point is the story of a young lady from Atlanta, Georgia. Her parents divorced when she was a baby and her mother died several years later. Her aunt took in the child and worked two jobs so the niece could graduate from college. The young lady was ambitious and bright. After college she excelled in her job and which allowed her to buy a house and a new car. Eventually the aunt became disabled and was taken in and cared for by her niece. One foggy morning a crash on an Atlanta freeway ended the young lady's life. Without a will her entire estate; home, car and bank account; was awarded by the court to two half-sisters that she had met only briefly at her father's funeral. The aunt was forced to enter a nursing home. Unfortunately what is fair is not always what is legal. My wife Carolyn is currently involved in a court battle over her mother's estate. A family member confiscated the will and has refused to provide any information in defiance of a court order. It has been over a year and the estate is still in limbo. Much of the emotional stress and most of the legal bills would have been avoided if an attorney had been in possession of a copy of her will.

Review the five reasons not to have a will and ask yourself which one applies to you. I will also be glad to add any new reasons to the list. One that is not acceptable is that it costs too much.

Nolo's Willmaker software is available online at a cost of approximately $40.00. Pre-Paid Legal Services http://www.prepaidlegal.com/info/carolynpatterson will prepare a will for you and your spouse without extra charge with a membership and offers reduced rates on trusts and other estate legal issues. An attorney that specializes in estates can be located through your state's Bar Association. Whatever route you chose, don't leave your final arrangements to the whim of a judge

Decorating, Where There's a Will There's a Way

Decorating, Where There's a Will There's a Way
Decorating anything is one of the easiest things in the world! And when it comes to decorating your home, if one has a will and there is always a way. It helps, of course, to know about materials, including building materials, textiles and fabrics and furnishings including antique and modern furnishings. Add to this a few home decorating ideas and you can transform your house into a home that beckons!

Decorating ideas are always available.

Home is where the "art" is especially when decorating ideas are so easily available. Intelligent interior decorating means employing all the little things that matter energy-saving lighting; a down comforter which not only looks attractive but also provides a cozy, comfortable element that all bedrooms deserve; judicious use of patterned upholstery; and so on. Plants, whether real or fake, can make any room in your home more desirable. They can be placed on shelves or hung on hooks. Large plants, such as Fig trees or Philodendrons can be placed in corners of the room to add color and warmth.

It is said that lighting should be arranged to form a triangle, so use this as a guide when placing lamps. And if you have a fireplace, consider having bookshelves surrounding it as this would be a good place for a specialized collection of statues or attractive dolls. If a room is contemporary, highlight it with a bold antique to add that special element of surprise. Consider what your interiors can do for you especially after what you have done for your interiors!

Will This Year's Flu Paralyze The US And Canada?

Will This Year's Flu Paralyze The US And Canada?
According to the Associated Press on August 26th, the US and Canada may have to close schools, restrict travel and ration scarce medications if a powerful new flu strain spurs a worldwide outbreak, according to the federal planners for the next pandemic. It will take months to brew a new vaccine that works against the kind of super flu that causes a pandemic, although government preparations include research to speed the production. Federal plans have long been awaited by flu specialists, who say that it is just a matter of time before the next pandemic strikes and the nation is woefully unprepared for it!

There have been three flu pandemics in the last century, with the worst in 1918, when more than a half a million Americans and 20 million people worldwide died. Pre-baby boomers most likely heard about it from their parents and boomers from their grandparents.

The specialists say that the next one could be triggered by the recurring bird flu in Asia, if it indeed mutates in a way that lets it spread easily among humans. Bird flu has caused recurring outbreaks in recent years and has killed 27 people already this year in Asia. Until now, human infections have been traced to direct contact with infected poultry or poultry waste, and millions of chickens and other fowl have been slaughtered in attempts to stem the disease.

In a recent report, Dutch researchers found that cats can not only catch the bird flu, but can also spread it to other felines. Dr. Klaus Stohr, the influenza chief of the World Health Organization, states that there is not enough evidence yet to prove that cats can spread the deadly virus to humans, but has urged scientists to examine household cats and other mammals whenever researchers investigate human bird-flu infections. The cat research is of considerable concern because it illustrates the virus continuing adaptations in mammals, said Dr. Nancy Cox of the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Dr. Cox adds we need to do a lot more in the veterinary arena in order to understand what other animals can be infected and can transmit the virus. Last winter Thai veterinarians reported that the bird flu had killed three house cats. That was a big surprise as domesticated cats have long been thought resistant to infection from influenza A-type viruses.

As pointed out above, the US is woefully unprepared for it and public health experts worry that such a bug might come so fast that there will not be enough time to prepare adequate vaccine to keep the risk to a minimum.

The above, now combined with the shortage of normal-strain vaccine, HOW DO YOU PREPARE YOURSELF AND YOUR FAMILY FOR A POSSIBLE FLU EPIDEMIC OR PANDEMIC?

PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR ANSWER http://www.americasdiscounthealthsource.com/AnswerPage.

Business Partners & Marital Partners, Will the Marriage Survive? Part 2Sue and Chuck De

Business Partners & Marital Partners, Will the Marriage Survive? Part 2Sue and Chuck De

In the last article, we concluded by saying that keeping your business and personal relationships separate is very important to the survival of both your business and your marriage. In this article we will talk about how to achieve this goal.

One of the most important ways to accomplish this is to set up distinct business hours, and when they are over, don't discuss business, concentrate on your relationship. It is difficult, but make a concentrated effort at it. Confine your business discussions to business hours or set aside a specific time to discuss the business.

For example, take the last half hour of the day, and discuss the business day; any suggestions you have, what was accomplished, what needs to be done tomorrow, during the week, how are the monthly goals you set at the beginning of the month progressing. Remember to couch any criticisms or suggestions in a positive vein. Think of how you felt in the work situation and how supervisors dealt with you when making suggestions. Negatives only cause resentment. They do in the corporate arena, and even more so, when dealing with a spouse you must live with 24 hours a day. Be sure to set aside time for each other-go for walks, out to dinner, or just for a drive with your spouse. Do not discuss business.

You should have outside activities that are not business related. If not, join a group that interests you. It will allow you to meet with others who are not connected to your business. Running a home-based business can be very lonely; getting away from the home, and having outside interests is imperative.

In addition to the problems inherent to couples running a business, starting a home-based business presents its own set of problems and questions. Before you start be sure to ask yourself the following:

1. Are you self-motivated? Organized? Able to prioritize your work? You will no longer have a supervisor or a boss to tell you what to do. You will be the decision maker. You will have to motivate yourself. One way to accomplish this is to use a To Do List and stick to it. In addition, set definitive business hours, and stick to them.

2. Will you be able to deal with the isolation? You will no longer meet people in the halls, congregate around the coffee pot, or take a break to talk with your co-workers. To combat the loneliness and isolation be sure to join groups that meet outside the home, or schedule luncheons with friends and associates.

3. Write up a business plan. Be sure the business is something that interests you. You might want to start on a part-time basis, and grow from there. Research the business carefully, make sure there is a market, and the competition is not overwhelming.

4. Be sure you have at least six months living expenses set aside. This will give you the time to work through the marketing strategy outlined in your business plan, and avoid bad marketing practices. In addition, if changes need to be made, you can do so, without monetary concerns becoming an issue.

5. Be sure your office space is located in a separate room or area of your home that offers the least distractions. A separate office is best, especially if you are meeting with clients. Remember to always present a professional appearance.

6. When will you do your regular household chores? Make up a schedule of when you will deal with them. Some individuals find getting chores done before the start of the work day is best. At the end of the day, close your office door and then deal with the remaining household items that need to be handled. Time management will be a very important factor in running a home-based business.

7. For husband and wife teams, it becomes imperative to have some form of disability insurance for each other. Remember, even though your partner may be your husband or wife, he or she is still your business partner. An accident or illness to one of you can severely impact the operation of the business.

A business is only as good as you and your partner make it. It takes a lot of dedication, time and energy to run a business, whether it is home-based or not. It can be a very rewarding experience. Think carefully, and ask yourself a lot of self-searching questions before you begin.

Copyright 2000, DeFiore Enterprises.

Interested in having your own successful, home based creative real estate investing business? Chuck and Sue have been helping folks start successful home based businesses for over 17 years, and we can help you too! To see how, visit http://www.homebusinesssolutions.com for the latest FREE tips and tricks, educational products and coaching in creative real estate investing and home based businesses. No time to visit the site? Subscribe to our FREE "how to" Home Business Solutions Digest, it's like having your own personal coach: mailto:[e-mail]

The Right Wheelchair Accessories Will Ease Your Life and Your Journeys on Wheels

The Right Wheelchair Accessories Will Ease Your Life and Your Journeys on Wheels

The Right Wheelchair Accessories Will Ease Your Life and Your Journeys on Wheels

by: Laura Gray

Wheelchairs come in every shape and size with sufficient options that you can find the wheels you like to take you where you want to go with the assistance you need. To enhance the comfort and convenience of your journey, choose accessories tailored to provide the best support for your activities and your health concerns.

A manual powered wheelchair is a good choice if you have reasonable upper body strength, but electric wheelchairs are preferred by people with upper body impairments. A manual chair could be suitable for years, but increasing age, pain, or fatigue might make it clear that it is time to switch to a motorized chair and save the wear and tear on your body. If you are an active sportsperson, youll want a lightweight manual; if you live in an area with rough terrain, youll need wheels and tires that are up to the job. For people whose problem is simply limited ability to walk or stand for long periods of time, motorized scooters are probably the preferred choice. Once you have considered your needs and made your chair selection, check out the wonderful choice of wheelchair accessories that can change your ride from good to great.

The Perfect Cushion is a Necessity not a Luxury

A good seat cushion for your chair is too important to be considered a luxury item and you should find one that fits your requirements exactly. A good cushion can save you not only from pressure sores but also from the incorrect posture that can generate a variety of back and neck problems. If you have a neuromuscular disease, respiration, circulation and swallowing are also concerns that need to be addressed by correct posture, which means being supported by a good cushion.

1. Foam cushions are the least expensive, are lightweight, and are available in a variety of densities. You can also cut and trim them if pressure problems develop. They will, however, lose their shape eventually, which, in itself, can create pressure problems.
2. Air floatation cushions will give you even pressure distribution and some models can be inflated to the exact height needed. You can purchase them as single-chamber cushions or dual-chamber cushions that allow the sides to be at different heights. They are lightweight and waterproof, but can, however, develop leaks or punctures. The pressure should be checked regularly.
3. Gel cushions are particularly comfortable and distribute pressure very evenly. They are heavier than foam or air, however, and it is important to check these products to make sure the design you are considering will not allow the gel to push out to the sides and cause the cushion to lose its shape.

A Wheelchair Ramp Gets You to Where You Want to Be

Weve come a long way, baby, from the days when it was difficult or impossible for wheelchair riders to gain entrance to most public buildings. There are now ramps, enlarged doorways, at least one large stall in most public restrooms, and areas in the parking lot designated for handicap parking. There are older buildings, however, that have not yet made accommodation for mobile chairs, and, of course, most private homes are difficult to access with a wheelchair. You will need to travel by car or van on occasion, which means you need some kind of ramp, lift, or hoist to use with the vehicle, and a lift in the home may be necessary for a wheelchair user to access an upper floor. Fortunately, there is a wide range of new and used lifts, ramps and hoists, and you should be able to find a suitable product among the many wheelchair accessories available for any situation you encounter.

The term "permanent wheelchair ramp" is self-explanatory; "semi-permanent" means that it is assembled using bolts, which, of course, can be loosened so that the ramp can be moved and used elsewhere. A portable ramp can be folded or rolled up and will have some kind of carrying case one model has suitcase handles. Ramps can have such safety refinements as side rails and non-skid tracks. You can select portable ramps that are suitable for use with thresholds only or for use with minivans. Van ramps are less expensive than lifts, fold in half, and are stored vertically.

Wheelchair lifts will have either electrical or hydraulic operating systems. Hydraulic lifts have the advantage of working even when there is a power outage, and they will provide a smooth and fluid ride. Electric lifts are cheaper, are quiet and comfortable, and can be fitted with automatic door openers and even telephone jacks. Make sure you choose one that has a battery for use in case of emergency. Stair lifts are very convenient and popular for home use and for accessing ordinary cars, and are easy for one person to operate. Automotive lifts can be quickly assembled and taken apart.

Other Wheelchair Accessories Provide Additional Comfort and Convenience

Wheelchairs provide independence and mobility, and, with the right wheelchair accessories, will maximize comfort, convenience, safety, and quality of life. These items might include:

1. Mounting systems for communication devices and laptop computers
2. Restraint systems for securing your chair in order to transport it in a car or a van
3. Adjustable hand controls and driving controls
4. Support aids:
* to help in sitting upright
* to prevent slipping from side to side
* to support the head
* to elevate the legs
5. Wheelchair locks and covers
6. Protective pads for arms, elbows and legs, and gloves for the hands and cushions for the back
7. Voice activated wheelchair controls

Take Advantage of Easy Online Shopping

Compare costs and find the best price for the right product online. Whether you need a wheelchair ramp and accessories, or equipment for adapting your chair for growth or loss of body strength or mobility, the Internet can be your best source of product information and cost comparison. Technology is always changing, and there are new products available to make your life easier every year, no matter what medical problems you have. Order replacement parts for your chair, such as batteries, tires, and wheels, as well as new or old and familiar products with confidence from the convenience of your home. We can help keep you independent and on the move with wheelchair accessories that are just right for you.

About the Author

Laura Grayis currently freelance writing and enjoys providing information and moneysaving tips to consumers who are in the market fora wheelchair or wheelchair accessories.