[img]541|left|||no_popup[/img]Maybe it’s because of tax time. Or the upcoming Easter holiday. Whatever the reason, various circumstances have recently served up constant reminders that I’m not as organized as I might think.
Yes, my house is clean. All my music and old photos and school papers are now stored digitally (complete with backup). I have donated all my unused clothes and furniture that wore out its welcome years ago. And I just last week launched a new website for my students to more efficiently organize practice materials and recordings.
Still, I have omitted a critical detail — if not for me, then for my family. I do not have a last will or living trust.
In Action
At least as I type this I don’t have one. However, yesterday I kicked into high hear, and I expect to have a notarized copy within two weeks.
I have a call into an estate lawyer to help my husband and me determine the best structure for our plan. I created a list of all our assets, accounts, etc. My husband and I have reached agreement on everything from what happens if one of us goes first to what will happen to our cat if we die together.
This may sound morbid. However, I have witnessed too many tales of grieving families left with a disorganized mess that takes years to reach resolution thtough probate. It is hard enough to lose a loved one. I don’t want to subject my family to the added burden of not knowing what to do with my possessions… or worse, to fight over them.
Clarity in my last wishes will be my final gift to my loved ones. That… and a great party!
Ms. Dewberry, an accomplished cellist, completed her DMA in Chamber Music Performance from UCLA in December 2005. She received her MM in Cello Performance from UCLA in June 2002 and her B.M. in Cello Performance from Western Michigan University in April 1998. She also holds a B.A. in French with a minor in Women's Studies and Philosophy.
Her website is www.carterdewberry.com
She may be contacted at carter@carterdewberry.com
