Today somebody asked me how often I do my quiet times. I told him, and I quickly added that I was more consistent during the school year, which was pretty ridiculous in itself. Then he asked why I didn’t do them every day. I didn’t have a very good reason. And he told me to do them. So I did. This is what I learned today.

==

1 Samuel 9

1 There was a man of Benjamin whose name was Kish, the son of Abiel, son of Zeror, son of Becorath, son of Aphiah, a Benjaminite, a man of wealth. 2 And he had a son whose name was Saul, a handsome young man. There was not a man among the people of Israel more handsome than he. From his shoulders upward he was taller than any of the people.

3 Now the donkeys of Kish, Saul’s father, were lost. So Kish said to Saul his son, “Take one of the young men with you, and arise, go and look for the donkeys.” 4 And he passed through the hill country of Ephraim and passed through the land of Shalishah, but they did not find them. And they passed through the land of Shaalim, but they were not there. Then they passed through the land of Benjamin, but did not find them.

5 When they came to the land of Zuph, Saul said to his servant who was with him, “Come, let us go back, lest my father cease to care about the donkeys and become anxious about us.” 6 But he said to him, “Behold, there is a man of God in this city, and he is a man who is held in honor; all that he says comes true. So now let us go there. Perhaps he can tell us the way we should go.” 7 Then Saul said to his servant, “But if we go, what can we bring the man? For the bread in our sacks is gone, and there is no present to bring to the man of God. What do we have?” 8 The servant answered Saul again, “Here, I have with me a quarter of a shekel of silver, and I will give it to the man of God to tell us our way.” 9 (Formerly in Israel, when a man went to inquire of God, he said, “Come, let us go to the seer,” for today’s “prophet” was formerly called a seer.) 10 And Saul said to his servant, “Well said; come, let us go.” So they went to the city where the man of God was.

11 As they went up the hill to the city, they met young women coming out to draw water and said to them, “Is the seer here?” 12 They answered, “He is; behold, he is just ahead of you. Hurry. He has come just now to the city, because the people have a sacrifice today on the high place. 13 As soon as you enter the city you will find him, before he goes up to the high place to eat. For the people will not eat till he comes, since he must bless the sacrifice; afterward those who are invited will eat. Now go up, for you will meet him immediately.” 14 So they went up to the city. As they were entering the city, they saw Samuel coming out toward them on his way up to the high place.

15 Now the day before Saul came, the Lord had revealed to Samuel: 16 ”Tomorrow about this time I will send to you a man from the land of Benjamin, and you shall anoint him to be prince over my people Israel. He shall save my people from the hand of the Philistines. For I have seen my people, because their cry has come to me.” 17 When Samuel saw Saul, the Lord told him, “Here is the man of whom I spoke to you! He it is who shall restrain my people.” 18 Then Saul approached Samuel in the gate and said, “Tell me where is the house of the seer?” 19 Samuel answered Saul, “I am the seer. Go up before me to the high place, for today you shall eat with me, and in the morning I will let you go and will tell you all that is on your mind. 20 As for your donkeys that were lost three days ago, do not set your mind on them, for they have been found. And for whom is all that is desirable in Israel? Is it not for you and for all your father’s house?” 21 Saul answered, “Am I not a Benjaminite, from the least of the tribes of Israel? And is not my clan the humblest of all the clans of the tribe of Benjamin? Why then have you spoken to me in this way?”

22 Then Samuel took Saul and his young man and brought them into the hall and gave them a place at the head of those who had been invited, who were about thirty persons. 23 And Samuel said to the cook, “Bring the portion I gave you, of which I said to you, ‘Put it aside.’” 24 So the cook took up the leg and what was on it and set them before Saul. And Samuel said, “See, what was kept is set before you. Eat, because it was kept for you until the hour appointed, that you might eat with the guests.”

So Saul ate with Samuel that day. 25 And when they came down from the high place into the city, a bed was spread for Saul on the roof, and he lay down to sleep. 26 Then at the break of dawn Samuel called to Saul on the roof, “Up, that I may send you on your way.” So Saul arose, and both he and Samuel went out into the street.

27 As they were going down to the outskirts of the city, Samuel said to Saul, “Tell the servant to pass on before us, and when he has passed on, stop here yourself for a while, that I may make known to you the word of God.”

==

Saul was looking for donkeys. Saul sought Samuel in order to find his donkeys. So many people do this with God. We have an agenda in mind. We want money or girls or grades or reputation or whatever, so we go to God in order to get what we want.

Saul wanted to “trade” with Samuel. He wanted Samuel to tell him how to find his donkeys, so he felt like he needed to pay him somehow. So many people do this with God, too. In order to get our prayers answered, we feel like we have to do something first to earn it. But there’s no record of Samuel taking the shekel. Similarly, God doesn’t want our pity things. Our righteous deeds are like a polluted garment (Isaiah 64:6). You cannot buy God.

All Saul wanted were his donkeys. He got a nation (and some free food and lodging). Though Saul, being in the lowliest clan in the lowliest tribe of Israel, clearly did not deserve such a position, he was put at the head of the table, and he dined as a hero. And then he was given a place to rest. And in the next chapter, he is anointed to be king over Israel. That is us. We don’t deserve anything. All we want are our donkeys. Or our cars or our careers or our pats on the back. Whatever it is that we want, God is able to use that misplaced desire to bring us to him, so that we can dine with him and to rest in him, who is far superior to donkeys. This is the Gospel. We want donkeys. God gives us himself.

Lastly, it was all prepared. You can see in this story that it wasn’t really Saul who sought God out but God who sought Saul out. God divinely appointed this encounter between Saul and Samuel. He had it so that Saul went to look for donkeys in this location, and he had it so that Saul would come into the city. Even the food for Saul to eat had been set aside. Samuel said to him, “Eat, because it was kept for you until the hour appointed, that you might eat with the guests.” Meanwhile, Saul had no idea. All he was doing was looking for donkeys. And the amazing thing is that God does that for each and every one of us. While we were lost, minding our own donkey business, God prepared a way for us to come to him. And now that we have come to him, Jesus is preparing for us a place in heaven (John 14:2-3). An hour has been appointed when we will dine with God himself.

To sum it up. All we want are donkeys. We go to God for donkeys. Meanwhile, before we have a clue about anything, God made a plan to give us grace, love, and life. Then he executes that plan. “God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us ” (Romans 5:8). What an amazing story the Bible teaches.

- Larry

The small shrine near our apartment is preparing for new year. The entrance gate has pine and bamboo decorations, and the tent is ready for the celebration. This shrine is very charming because of its small scale and its housing our extremely local gods. I have found myself drawn here several times this year, and I look forward to spending some minutes there to welcome the new year with the neighbors and the spirits that connect us with each other and this small part of Tokyo.

Oftentimes when a car needs to be painted or repainted, the car owners initial decision is

to bring it to an auto repair shop and asked for a quote and let them do the job.

Have you think of trying to do it on your own? There were people who believes that they get

the best results only if they are the one doing it. Are you one of these believers?

Then…you must learn how to paint your car.

Do you want a specific color for your automobile and doesn’t wish to splurge a lot of cash?

Then here’s your chance to do it yourself and save a hundred dollars plus a reward for

yourself in learning something new. Who knows what this developed skill can lead you to.

Before doing the very first step in painting your car, you have to determine the necessary

materials so you can work on smoothly.

What are these materials?

WAX/GREASE REMOVER

Safe cleaner for removing wax, grease, oil and other contaminates.

SANDPAPER

Determine the type of paint you are using. 320 grit sandpaper is minimum and with the

fastest and decent looking finish but 400 is better.

PRIMER

Decide on the finish you want whether it is enamel, laquer, or epoxy then use the proper

primer. Car painting requires special etching primer and intermediate primer before applying

the topcoat. Remember to take ALL the rust down to bare clean metal before using the

primers.

URETHANE BASED PAINT

Why urethane-based? Simply because they provide greater flexibility and exterior durability

although they are more costly.

CLEAR COAT PAINT

To make paint to appear more glossy.

OTHER TOOLS AND MATERIALS

1. Air Compressor

2. Spray Gun

3. Paint Booths

4. Laquer Thinner

5. Masking Paper

6. Masking TapeM

7. Cotton Towels

8. Dust Masks

9. Body Putty

By preparing the materials first it is now much easier for you to start painting your car

Learn more about How to Paint a Car

Recommend : fast electric scooters

Many of us will gather with close family at Christmas and/or New Years.  You may want to observe your parents, or other close relatives, and take note of any new signs of the aging process.

Some of these signs, if occurring infrequently, are no cause for panic.  These signs could mean that your parents need to have someone to check on them daily, or to consider assisted living.

• Declining mobility
• Vision problems
• Loss of interest in favorite pastimes
• Irritability
• Hearing loss
• Confusion
• Repetition
• Short-term memory loss
• Fatigue
• Unopened mail
• Changes in the home environment
• Unusual spending and/or hoarding (collecting)
• Preoccupation with finances
• Change in appetite or not eating well
• Staying alone, isolation
• Depression or anxiety
• Bruising from stumbles or falls

What should you do if you notice any of these signs of aging in your parents?  You shouldn’t overreact, or force the issue to discussion.  You should not ignore the signs either.  Just pay attention.

1. Begin keeping a diary or log of what you notice.  By paying attention and keeping a record, you will be able to objectively determine if these behaviors are happening infrequently, or if they are getting worse and may need intervention.

2. Begin to think about the future.  No one likes to face the inevitable facts of decline and death of our parents.  Those who allow themselves to think proactively are much better prepared for the day when all they have left is their parents’ empty house.  It’s the adult children who have been in denial who really become unglued when the end finally arrives.

With family gathered, this may be a good opportunity to observe and discuss the facts together as siblings.  Go for a walk or out for coffee together.  A little investment of time when all are together may ease the challenges you’ll face later.

Whatever you observe, continue to love them and make great memories together as a family!

Ray Lewis, Baltimore Ravens LB, "Mr. Motivated"

Motivational Poem
By William Arthur Ward

—————————————————–

 
Believe while others are doubting.

Plan while others are playing.

Study while others are sleeping.

Decide while others are delaying.

Prepare while others are daydreaming.

Begin while others are procrastinating.

Work while others are wishing.

Save while others are wasting.

Listen while others are talking.

Smile while others are frowning.

Commend while others are criticizing.

Persist while others are quitting.

As 2009 winds down, I was reflecting on the amazing journey God has taken me on this year.  Not a physical journey but more of a spiritual one where I’ve seen my faith grow by leaps and bounds.  During this journey, four words jumped out at me: prepare, humility, patience, and faith.

PREPARE…I first heard this when I was on a trip to Winter Garden, FL with Kensington Community Church.  During the trip, I had the opportunity to spend some quiet time in prayer after a community service project.  After sitting quietly for a period of time, I felt a calmness around me and the word “prepare” jumped into my mind.  Given the purpose of the trip, it made perfect sense for my wife and I.

HUMILITY…It was during the trip to Florida, that I was introduced to the book, Wide Awake by Erwin McManus.  This book completely changed my outlook on life and what my purpose was.  Life was all about me.  It wasn’t until after I read this book that I realized that having a humble heart can get you through anything.  It helped get me through the toughest year I’ve ever had at GM.  My focus was completely on doing my job, staying positive, and trying to be an encouragement to others instead of joining in the negativity.

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves.  Each of you should look not only to your interests, but also to the interests of others.  (Philippians 2:3-4)

PATIENCE…What a story this was.  This fall, Kensington did a weekend message series called RESET.  Part of the series also included people gathering together in Small Groups to dive deeper into the messages.  One of the week’s assignments was to visit a cemetery.  Once there, we were to make our way to a grave and stand before it.  The action step was to symbollically bury whatever  was preventing us from complete surrender to Him, in my case, I was focused on my own selfishness (see how Humility came into play again!).  As I sat there, I looked at the name on the tombstone…Patience.  I was speechless.  Maybe I needed to bury something else!

FAITH…One thing I’ve found recently is that I need to spend each morning in prayer and reading my Bible.  During one morning, the word “faith” came to mind.  Was this my own faith?  Was it having faith in God that he would answer my prayers?  I began to look at my faith and discovered I wasn’t sharing it with others.  What I have is gift from God and needs to be shared with others.

“But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:15)

I’ve been more open with it lately because I feel that especially during Christmas, we remember what December 25th is all about…the birth of Jesus Christ, God’s gift to us.  Why not share the “reason for the hope I have” with others?

Prepare.  Humility.  Patience.  Faith.  That’s been my 2009 journey.

Tis the season for slip-ups and disasters.  The key is to prepare and prevent them from happening.

3 Levels of Disaster:

1. Lapse- a slight slip-up, you’re able to redirect quickly and get back on track.

2. RElapse- old habits are coming back

3. COLlapse- relapse after relapse leads to fear of failing and anger.  That leads to losing hope, despair.

Major contributors: high risk foods, high risk situations, cravings and urges.

.                                                                                                               .

So how do you redirect?

• Forgive yourself and get back to the environment that worked (meetings).

• Recognize YOU ARE NOT ALONE!!!

• Recognize when you need help.

• Be willing to accept help.

• Make sure you surround yourself with positive people who will help you.

• Know your triggers!

• If you’re still giving in to your triggers, write down why this behavior is continuing- What am I feeling?  Am I really hungry?  Do I really want this?  Am I covering something?  Anger? Lonely?  Tired?

REFRAME!  EXPLORE OTHER OPTIONS!

this morning she did something. something that I would have done, verbatim. It’s crazy how I felt about it. at first I didn’t know how to respond. I didn’t tell her that she reminded me of me, I kind of let her vent for a while.

she called me ignorant a few times, I was. and then an idiot once. I am pretty sure if she is like me, we wont be speaking for a while. or ever. I feel a little content, I don’t want her to feel like things are on her though I definitely played a bit of a part in things, but I just walk the path she sets out and I’m a lot like a pawn in her game.

which I’m okay with. I like her, enough to realize that I may have fucked up way past where I was. I don’t know her, at all. She’s human but an enigma but just like me as well. but I shouldn’t act like she’s just like me, it seems so premature.

I can’t even bank on the fact that she may still feel strongly about me. But I did mean what I said, and if anyone knows anything about not giving out apologies for what you aren’t sorry for, it’s Love. I’ve learned a lot of things from her. I still feel her, next me. I can feel her hair and everything.

is that creepy?

bah, whatever. I don’t care. about the creepiness I mean.

How to prepare Diastatic malt Natural Yeast Food + FREE Recipe for Whole Wheat Bread

When you’re ready to explore the deep, go to your local Colorado diving gear experts. Not only will these people assist you in purchasing the equipment you need for your Colorado scuba diving vacation (and this idea isn’t at all far-fetched), they can also provide you with training for your certification in scuba divng. Colorado has several lakes and rivers where you can try out your new dive equipment; Colorado dive experts can also arrange scuba diving adventures in other parts of the world as well. In fact, for the “hard core” among us, a Colorado diving gear supplier is the best place to get started.

Colorado Scuba Diving Vacation Destinations

Horsetooth Reservoir near Fort Collins, Turquoise Lake outside historic Leadville, scenic George Town Lake in te Clear Creek Basin and Officer’s Gulch are just a few of the Colorado scuba diving vacation spots you will want to check out. If you prefer to stay in the metro area, you can visit Chatfield or Aurora Reservoir , which are within an hour’s drive from Denver; the latter contains the remains of a two-engine aircraft dating from the Second World War, giving divers the opportunity to explore a sunken wreck. In any case, you won’t have to go far to enjoy scuba diving, Colorado may be landlocked, but there’s no shortage of diving opportunities.

Farther Afield

There are of course more traditional destinations at which to go scuba diving; Colorado diving experts can recommend destinations and often have access to “package tours” which can save you money. Just ask about these the next time you visit your local Colorado diving gear supply store. In some cases, when you buy your dive equipment, Colorado diving stores may even offer a deal that includes training and a trip to a popular diving spot.

Get Started Today

Your diving adventure starts with a visit to your nearby Colorado diving gear outfitters. These folks are very passionate about what they do and are more than happy to offer advice on how to get started scuba diving. Colorado is a good a place as any to to purchase dive equipment; Colorado is also an excellent place to get your diving certification. Stop by and get acquainted with the experts at your colorado diving gear outfitters today.

Have any of you prepared anything for your non-believer family and friends to find after the rapture has occured?

I thought this was an interesting question and brought to mind many interesting ideas for me.  The people you love you may be left behind, and they will need some guidance in getting through the tribulation–don’t you think?  I thought it would be a wonderful idea to have a “rapture stash” somewhere in the house so if we’re raptured then friends/family will find these things.  So, what would be best to have in a rapture stash?

*A few extra bibles.  They even sell bibles at the dollar store and thrift shops so I’m sure you’d be able to find a cheap way to load up on extra bibles.  Have enough for your loved ones plus some extras in the hopes that they’ll be able to spread the good word during the tribulation too!

*A theoretical outline/timeline of what you think will happen during the tribulation period.  They can’t be prepared if they don’t know what to expect.

*Some bible study materials you can put together.  These don’t have to be store bought, but things you can put together at home and just print out!  Include passages that pertain to the tribulation period and any explanations you can think of that would be helpful to a first time bible reader. 

*You may also want to let your loved ones know where valuables are because if they are to refuse the mark of the beast they will need items to barter to get food and resources.  Just remember, you won’t need these things when you’re home in your new glorified body!  Material things can’t go with us!

We don’t have a rapture stash put together [yet], but I’m sure thinking about putting something together just in case the rapture happens in our lifetimes.  I do have to say that everyday it seems the news is reporting things that bring us closer and closer to fulfilling the end times prophecies of the Gog/Magog war, the dividing of Israel, that all nations will be against Israel, etc.  I’m not saying for sure that the rapture will happen in our lifetimes, but I’m looking up and watching for His trumpet blast that will call us believers home to Heaven!!  The point here is that I hope to spend eternity with those that I love here on earth, and I want them all to find salvation through Jesus Christ (even if it takes something as big as the rapture to open their eyes to the truth).

So, again, do YOU have anything prepared as a rapture stash?  I’m curious what others have done and prepared.  I’d love to hear anyone’s ideas or if I’m missing anything!!

help for pregnancy

Are you cerebration about accepting abundant and starting a family Adapt for abundance admonition is accessible advisedly all over help for pregnancy the Internet. You can get bags of books committed to this topic. In Help For Pregnancy addition you will Pregnancy Remedy additionally get admonition from ancestors and friends. With the bulk of advice accessible these Pregnancy Remedy days it is accessible to get abashed or accept an afflict of information.

Here is a abbreviate account of things you should chase in adjustment Help For Pregnancy to adapt for pregnancy.

Prepare For Abundance Advice

Improve your diet

This should be the aboriginal affair you should alpha with. Starting absorb commons a day Pregnancy Cures which accommodate aliment that will accord you vitamins and minerals. Accomplish abiding you booty able calcium and folic acid. You can get these through acceptable prenatal vitamins or demography multi-vitamin tablets. Accomplish abiding you cut bottomward on caffeine as it is accepted to adjournment conception.

Maintain Healthy Weight

Make abiding your weight is Pregnancy Remedy in admeasurement to your acme Help For Pregnancy afore you accomplish an attack to conceive. Reports and studies accept apparent that angular mothers tend to accept babies with low bearing weight.

Exercise

Get into appearance months afore you attack to conceive. This will accomplish it easier for you to accept an alive affairs during abundance and it will Pregnancy Cures additionally advice you during labor. Doing aerobic exercise will advice you access your activity Pregnancy Remedy levels and accomplish an ideal pre-pregnancy weight. In addition you will not be too accessible to affection swings. Besides aerobic added accepted pre-pregnancy contest are walking jogging and swimming. It is important to alpha out slowly. Do not dissipate your body.

Stop Smoking Bubbler Alcohol and Demography Recreational Drugs

Several studies accept apparent that smoking bubbler and demography drugs is affiliated to miscarriages behavioral problems after in life low bearing weight babies and SIDS. If help for pregnancy you are austere about accepting pregnant endlessly is the best another for you.

     It is generally true that “spiffing up” your house will help it to sell faster and for a higher price than if it is in disrepair.  Most sellers are constrained in this by time and money.  One of the first things to consider is how much to spend.  Additionally, there are the considerations of curb appeal and readying the interior.

How Much to Spend?

     Spend as little as possible!  There is a big difference between putting on a new roof or   remodeling the kitchen and painting the rooms a neutral color or replacing the knobs on the kitchen cabinets.  Seek the advice of  your Realtor.  Together you can decide on what will give the most bang for your buck.

Curb Appeal

      A house that looks messy on the outside is less inviting than its well cared for counterpart.  It sends a message that the rest of the house may not be well-cared as well. It can put buyers in a negative frame of mind towards  your house before they have even stepped through the front door. On some occasions buyer’s will simply drive by.  To maximize the curb appeal:

• Keep laws edged, cut and watered
• Trim hedges, weed lawns, flowerbeds and prune trees
• Check the foundation, steps, walkways, walls & patios for cracks/crumbling – repair if possible
• Check windows and doors for peeling paint – repair
• Repair/replace loose damage roof shingles
• Repair/repaint loose siding or caulking
• Plant some colorful annuals near your front door – perhaps in pretty pots
• Keep garage door closed
• Store old rundown cars elsewhere while the house is on the market. If an RV overwhelms the front, store it elsewhere. Although an RV that sits comfortably in the driveway with adequate space around it says “extra parking”
• Apply fresh coat of paint to the front door

Interior Spruce Up

     The following are suggestion for enhancing your homes interior:

• Remove clutter.
• Thoroughly clean every room.
• Take down most personal photos.  This helps buyers to imagine themselves living in the home.
• If you have lots of furniture you mght consider renting a storage space for the time of the listing and moving some of it there to create a sleek, stylish look.
• Remove items from the kitchen counters.  Keep them as free from clutter as possible.  Move the coffee pot, toaster, paper towels and other items you keep on your counter to a closet where you can easily access them.
• Keep the bathroom counter as free of personal items as possible.
• Repaint dingy, soiled or strongly colored walls.
• Repair any plumbing leaks, leaky faucets or showerheads.
• Carpet – cosider replacing severely damaged with a neutral color.
• Put new pretty towels in the bathrooms for showing
• Kitchen- consider painting a neutral color and/or new cabinet knobs or curtains.

The list above may seem long and overwhelming but it contains only minimal expense with the exception of the carpet if you decide to replace it.  If you have limited time pick and choose what you are able to do.  Certainly, many houses go on the Market with no preparation.  If you want to set yourself up to succeed by selling for a  good price in the shortest period of time it will be very helpful to prepare your home for sale.

Because it matters…

Should I rest during this time?

If you have the time to rest during the session, all you need to do is either lie down on a comfortable bed or couch, or you can sit in your favorite chair, if you like. It is preferable to relax in a space where you are not likely to be interrupted or disturbed by a ringing phone, TV, or other distractions. If something or someone should disturb you, just quickly take care of the situation and continue resting. It will not interrupt the process or negate the benefits of the session. Also, you may rest on your back or turn onto your side, as you wish. Make yourself as comfortable as possible during this time.

Do I have to think or do anything?

During the session, there is nothing you have to think or do. If you happen to be trained in any particular healing methods, meditation, or other such practices, this is not the time to use them. In fact, this is your time to just “be.” Simply be present to whatever is in the moment without any worry of what should, could, or might be. No need to try to keep your mind quiet if there are thoughts. In fact, it is possible that there may be a few more thoughts at first; but as the session progresses, you will probably find that you will settle into a very quiet state after a few moments.

To sleep or not to sleep, that is the question!

If you find that you are sleepy, that’s great! I have often found that many remnants of stress and trauma residing deep in the subtle layers of the physiology will often be released very quickly during sleep. So sleep is good if it comes. If it doesn’t, that’s fine, too. The benefits will be there in either case.

Will I feel or see anything during the session?

You may possibly experience a mild tingling sensation at times, or you may not. You may possibly experience warmth or coolness in different parts of your body, or you may not. And you may even have some visual experience of the Spectrums-perhaps violet, deep blue, or even gold. Or you may not. . .

How do I get the most out of my session?

The most important thing to remember before the session is to simply let go, relax, and be present to whatever your experience is. There are no “right” experiences, as there are no predetermined or rigid expectations as to what you should or should not experience. Your physiology and consciousness will lead the way and respond in the most appropriate manner. This is how you can gain the most from your session.

What if I can’t be resting during the session?

For those who cannot take the time out to rest during the session, perhaps because it is necessary that you must be in some activity such as work, travel, medical treatment, etc, your physiology will still respond and you will get the benefits of the Healing Spectrums session.

The following is an exerpt from my recently published article “Preparedness Key to Breastfeeding Success”.

1) Determine your definition of a “successful breastfeeding experience”

2) Build a list of names of local experts to be on your support team

3) Purchase breastfeeding book before delivery (mine is coming! “Preparing to Breastfeed: Helping Moms have a Successful Breastfeeding Experience”)

4) Review support groups and online information. Have this info printed out or bookmarked for easy reference when needed.

5) Research and purchase supplies before the baby arrives

To read the complete article click on “Published Articles” on the right side of the page.

Remember that teacher who said, “There are no dumb questions”? Well, she was wrong.  I occasionally answer questions on Yahoo Answers just to be a nice person in case there’s anything to that karma notion, but sometimes the questions are so foolish that I can’t believe someone asked.  I politely answer but then the next day, someone else asks.  I answer, a bit more tersely.  Then a week later, someone else asks that same question.  So I’m writing the answers here in the hope that they google the question and find the answer.

Here are a few of the dumber questions, with the answers:

1. Are these PSAT scores good?

Questioners on Yahoo Answers ask that every day — actually, several times a day.  My answer is always, “Are they good for Harvard? No.  Are they good for community college?  Sure.  Are they good if you’re an honors student getting A+ in everything?  Nope.  Are they good if you’re flunking out of high school?  Probably.”  The question really means, “Can I take the SATs without doing any more prep?”  And the answer is get out a prep book and start working, you lazy bum!

2. I missed the deadline for sending my SAT scores to colleges.  Can I still send them?

The answer is a deadline is a deadline.  That’s why they call it a deadline.  You didn’t do it – now you’re dead.  Figuratively speaking.

3.  My PSATs are really bad.  Can I improve?

Haven’t you seen all those ads for SAT prep classes?  Do you think they’d offer them if people couldn’t improve?  One complaint that academicians have against the SATs is that rich people have a huge advantage because to a small degree classes help but to a greater degree private tutoring helps.  I’ve tutored kids who have gone up 250 points in one category alone.  More common are increases of 50 -100 points in each category.  So yes, read some suggestions on this blog, go to a class, hire a tutor and you can and will improve.

4.  How do I send my scores to colleges?

If you can’t read the instructions on the website, you’re probably not ready for college.  Both the SAT website and the ACT website give very clear directions on how to order official copies of your scores to send to colleges.  You need a credit card and the name of each school or program that you want to get your scores.  They send all previous scores unless you block specific dates or tests.

5.  The college admissions website says I need to have the College Board send my scores, but they’re on my application.  Do I still need to pay to have the College Board send them?

Yup, that’s why the website says to have the College Board send them.  The first college test is if you can follow the application directions.  And you could put anything on that application.  Your guidance department might put the wrong scores on your transcript.  It’s going to cost a fortune to get through college.  It will cost less than $100 to send your scores to your schools.  Just do it.

6. Are the SATs harder than the PSATs?

Why not take a practice SAT and find out, you lazy bum?  There is a free SAT on the College Board website. Sit down and take it timed and you’ll have a reasonable idea if the SATs are harder than the PSATs.  People are different, but most consider the SATs much harder than the PSATs, so don’t get too excited by your decent PSAT scores.  The SATs are longer.  There’s an extra year of math.  The reading selections are longer and more boring.  There’s more difficult vocabulary, both in the sentence completion questions and embedded in the reading selections.  And don’t forget that there’s an essay on the SATs.

7.  I’m a senior and I’m taking my SATs for the first time next week.  What can I do to prepare?

No, I’m not kidding.  Before every SAT, this question is asked by several people, usually followed by a growing string of exclamation and question marks as the test gets closer.  If the test is a day or two away, I usually suggest they look for schools that don’t require any standardized tests.   I also recommend they read the March 2009 entries to this blog (this one and this one) which contain last-minute hints, like bringing plenty of candy and iced tea to the test, changing the calculator batteries, and wearing a watch.  Hey, you too can read all the suggestions — why am I repeating them here?

8.  My grades are really awful.  Can good SATs or ACTs overcome a bad GPA?

No.  Let me say that another way:  NO.  Unless you have a very unusual and serious reason for low grades (a hospitalized parent, frequent moves to different high schools, a documented mental or physical health issue), colleges care more about how you do in your classes over a period of time and the rigor of those classes (you know that photography isn’t as impressive as honors physics, right?) than they do about how you did on your SATs.  Get off the internet and start studying for that U.S. history exam!

9.  Can I get into [name of college] with these SATs?

Why are you asking random strangers?  Go to princetonreview.com and see what the average SATs are for colleges you’re interested in.  Understand, though, that colleges are looking for much, much more than a good SAT score.  They want kids who will fit in with their school’s atmosphere, who will add to what they already have at the school.  They want kids with intelligence, ambition, concern for the wider world, an upbeat attitude, an interest in sports, a willingness to volunteer, an ability to lead — you  have all that, right?

10. A college I’m interested in is coming to my high school.  Do I have to go to that meeting?

My, you are lazy!  If you have a school or two or ten that you’d like to check out, the more contacts you make with that school, the better.  Sign up for information on their website.  See their reps at college fairs.  Talk to their admissions counselors when they show up at your school.  Call the admissions office to ask questions for which you can’t find answers on their website.  Take advantage of the opportunity to visit the campus.

———-

Do you have a dumb question you want to ask? Go ahead. I’ll try to answer without being snide.  And I promise I won’t put your name on a future edition of “Dumbest Questions.”

Wendy Segal

This has been a growing year for me, a chance to help people understand the necessity of preparation before death, and help avoid battles over stuff after death.  I have accumulated a wealth of suggestions, gleaned from nearly 20 years of experience handling personal property in estates.

My book, The Boomer Burden — Dealing With Your Parents’ Lifetime Accumulation of Stuff, provides practical and effective steps for liquidating and distributing your parents’ assets in a way that both honors them and promotes family harmony.

You’ve probably heard the stories:  arguments over stuff, an inheritance lost forever when parents are scammed, siblings estranged, or an adult heir taken from daily responsibilities for months while trying to empty their childhood home.

This book is valuable for both the senior adults and the Boomer children.  My trustworthy counsel covers the following areas:

• Divide your parents’ estate with peace of mind
• Minimize fighting with siblings during the estate settlement process
• Clear out the family home in two weeks or less
• Identify potential items of value in the home
• Have “that conversation” with your parents
• Prepare your own children for the future

Amazon.com carrys my book; you can purchase it in time for your family’s holiday celebrations.  If you have a close relationship with parents and siblings, you owe it to all to keep harmony in the home after the unexpected death of a parent.  If there are difficult relationships, distance between you and your parents, an accumulation of stuff in your parents’ home, and other thorny issues, please buy a copy of this book and save yourself even more pain and struggle.

One of the most distressing, yet integral parts of estate planning and liquidation is the division of personal property; who gets what?  A little talking now can go a long way to prevent squabbling between the heirs after mom and dad pass away.  For peaceful resolutions and wonderful guidance, please order The Boomer Burden.  It has earned wonderful reviews, and it makes a great gift for siblings, parents, children, even clients.

This is my Christmas gift to your family: a wealth of information and valuable resources to protect the relationship, sanity, and peace among your family.  The joy of preparation for the inevitable, and the kindness of knowing that everything is in order.  Merry Christmas!

P.S. I welcome your comments and questions, even suggested topics, at the link below this article.

Zephaniah 3:14-20

¹⁴ Sing, O Daughter of Zion;
shout aloud, O Israel!
Be glad and rejoice with all your heart,
O Daughter of Jerusalem!

¹⁵ The LORD has taken away your punishment,
he has turned back your enemy.
The LORD, the King of Israel, is with you;
never again will you fear any harm.

¹⁶ On that day they will say to Jerusalem,
“Do not fear, O Zion;
do not let your hands hang limp.

¹⁷ The LORD your God is with you,
he is mighty to save.
He will take great delight in you,
he will quiet you with his love,
he will rejoice over you with singing.”

¹⁸ “The sorrows for the appointed feasts
I will remove from you;
they are a burden and a reproach to you.

¹⁹ At that time I will deal
with all who oppressed you;
I will rescue the lame
and gather those who have been scattered.
I will give them praise and honor
in every land where they were put to shame.

²⁰ At that time I will gather you;
at that time I will bring you home.
I will give you honor and praise
among all the peoples of the earth
when I restore your fortunes
before your very eyes,”
says the LORD.

Canticle 9

Surely, it is God who saves me; *
I will trust in him and not be afraid.

For the Lord is my stronghold and my sure defense, *
and he will be my Savior.

Therefore you shall draw water with rejoicing *
from the springs of salvation.

And on that day you shall say, *
Give thanks to the Lord and call upon his Name;

Make his deeds known among the peoples; *
see that they remember that his Name is exalted.

Sing the praises of the Lord, for he has done great things, *
and this is known in all the world.

Cry aloud, inhabitants of Zion, ring out your joy, *
for the great one in the midst of you is the Holy One of Israel.

Philippians 4:4-7

⁴Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! ⁵Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. ⁶Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. ⁷And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Luke 3:7-18

⁷John said to the crowds coming out to be baptized by him, “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the coming wrath? ⁸Produce fruit in keeping with repentance. And do not begin to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ For I tell you that out of these stones God can raise up children for Abraham. ⁹The axe is already at the root of the trees, and every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire.”

¹⁰“What should we do then?” the crowd asked.

¹¹John answered, “The man with two tunics should share with him who has none, and the one who has food should do the same.”

¹²Tax collectors also came to be baptized. “Teacher,” they asked, “what should we do?”

¹³“Don’t collect any more than you are required to,” he told

them. ¹⁴Then some soldiers asked him, “And what should we do?”
He replied, “Don’t extort money and don’t accuse people falsely—be content with your pay.”

¹⁵The people were waiting expectantly and were all wondering in their hearts if John might possibly be the Christ.¹⁶John answered them all, “I baptize you with water. But one more powerful than I will come, the thongs of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire. ¹⁷His winnowing fork is in his hand to clear his threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his barn, but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.” ¹⁸And with many other words John exhorted the people and preached the good news to them.

Have you ever heard the saying, “It’s not what you know, it’s who you know”? Networking has been an established social function in society for as long as there have been people. We often use our connections to get us into social circles and places we might have difficulty getting into alone, or feel awkward if going alone, as I would have this morning when I went to a friend’s church with her.

On television shows and in the media we see people getting things they want because of their family connections or social circles. Most of us have probably done the something like that too. For example, we would rather go to someone we know or to someone recommended than go to a stranger for a haircut or to get our car fixed. That sort of networking is harmless, right?

But when does it cross the line? What about when we find ourselves connected to an individual or a group that demands respect when, in fact, they are driven by arrogance and a misplaced sense of entitlement? Have you ever heard someone say, “Don’t you know who I am?” Have you ever witnessed someone being excused from what would normally be inexcusable behavior because of their connections to a family, a community, or even a belief system?

It doesn’t just happen on TV; it happens anywhere there are people. And it isn’t just a modern day issue.

We hear John the Baptist in our gospel today chastising the crowds before him for this very thing. “You brood of vipers!” he accuses.

“Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bear fruit worthy of repentance. Do not begin to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our ancestor’; for I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise up children to Abraham.”

What vivid imagery! What a dire warning. But most of all, what a reminder of the power of God.

John is telling the crowd and telling us that what our ancestors have done in the past doesn’t matter now. It is what we do in the present that matters. There is an immediacy in John’s declarations. God’s power is being stirred up, and we don’t know what form it is going to take or what the outcome will be. We are powerless before the mystery of God.

Like anyone who feels threatened, the people in the crowd listening to John wanted to avoid judgment, avoid God’s wrath, and avoid pain. They panicked. Human nature hasn’t changed much over the centuries. We still feel the same way in the face of the unknown. We want to control it, we want to analyze it, and we want to have power over it. When we can’t do that, we transmit our anxieties to others who we think we can control and have power over. Exploitation makes us feel better.

It seems as if greed, accumulation of material things, and apathy toward others can create a protective shield around the fearful trembling of our distorted hearts. Like the strange, frightening picture in Oscar Wilde’s story of Dorian Gray, our true selves, our inner selves that should be turning to God, end up atrophied and diseased as we slowly become monsters of our own making, while everything on the outside seems to be going along swimmingly.

“What then should we do?” We ask with the despairing crowds.

John tells us we must bear fruits worthy of repentance. We must turn to God – our hope and our salvation.

This calls us as individuals to decide how we will open our hearts, tearing down our useless shields, to let the love of God, through righteousness and justice, bear our fruits of repentance. It is through righteousness that we restore the relationship between us and God, as well as the relationship between each other; and through justice that we restore our relationship with material things – being good stewards of all that we have.

John, in essence, tells the crowds, the tax collectors, and soldiers that the first step to a restored community as God intended is to redistribute wealth and stop exploitation.

Each individual’s decision is key – it is the idea we have today of thinking globally, but acting locally. Systems don’t change all at once, but through one person at a time. This may be something as small as being honest if a cashier gives you too much change back or going through your closet to give away clothes that another can use. Every small action leads to a larger transformation, not just of ourselves, but of the world around us.

We are to prepare our hearts for the coming of the Lord. Our hearts are filled with expectation and questioning.

We know the answer to the crowd’s question of “Who is the Messiah?” because we have heard this gospel story before. Yet, even though we know that God is about to do something new by being with us in the flesh – Immanuel “God with us” – and we claim to believe that God is still doing something new – revealing, redeeming, sustaining, and moving in the present time – what are the fruits of our repentance? How are we living our lives with righteousness and justice?

We hear the prophet Zephaniah and the prophet Isaiah proclaiming the goodness of the Lord in our Scriptures today; what hope they hold! “The Lord is in your midst,” Zephaniah exults. How then, do our hearts respond? Are we living as if we believe this?

Sometimes it seems that since the gospels were written in a different time and different place, they are not applicable to the world we live in today. What we often forget is that the same God that came among us back then is in our midst now, stirring up power, doing new things. The God of the gospels is the God of the twenty-first century, and He is still calling us to transformation.

If a doctor diagnosed someone with heart disease or diabetes and then gave that person instructions on how to keep it from getting worse, we’d hope that person would follow the doctor’s advice. After all, we trust doctors to prescribe the right diet and medication. But if we ignore our doctor’s advice and adopted the attitude of “this can’t happen to me,” then we are just asking for trouble.

So, too, with our spiritual lives. John the Baptist is helping us prepare a way in our hearts for the Lord to come.

This is an exciting time. We do not know how God will stir things up – but we do know that God’s work always comes to good. If we don’t clear a path, then how will we be able to respond with joy when the Lord is in our midst? How will we be able to hear the call for transformation in our lives and in the community around us if our shields are up?

We have the choice to allow God to come afresh into our lives, giving us new eyes, deeper wisdom, and profound compassion. We have the ability to repent anew and to affirm the covenant made in our baptism, proclaiming the good news to all people. This is no longer our parents’ choice, or our grandparents’ choice, or our ancestors’ choice – we cannot rest on their laurels. The choice is ours. May we choose wisely.

While I was a student at Howard University I had a stay-in-school job at the Department of Veterans Affairs.  I was an Office Automation Clerk, which means I was the office “peon” (Spanish word for someone who has no control over their working conditions).  At the time I was unskilled and simply working to get a pay check.  My day-to-day duties included doing all the tasks that no one else had time to do, or simply did not want to do.  I complained all the time and one day my grandfather who was tired of hearing me complain told me, in his own way, to take a chill pill and take the opportunity to learn something.  He said that nothing you learn is in vain.  In other words, everything you learn is valuable and can add worth to your life.

One day I was asked to load software onto our new computers.  All 25 of them!  Those of you who know computers know that this can be a long and boring task, but I did it.  Then I was asked to learn the new software and show everyone else in the office how to use it.  So I attended the training sessions and read the gigantic manual (there were no CD tutorials back then, you have to read the manual).  Next I had to learn how to troubleshoot both the computer and software program.  Then I had to train on every software program offered by Microsoft (Word, Excel, Access, etc.I sat in classes for weeks learning the ins and outs and advanced techniques for each software package, so that I could go back and train the staff, because again, I was the only one with the time to do so.

Today, I can do just about anything to a computer from hooking it up to troubleshooting.  I can master/manipulate just about any software.  I know advanced techniques in Microsoft that even Bill Gates might not know:-)   I know how to use these programs to their fullest capabilities to save time and energy and make work life so much easier!! Call my office and everyone will tell you, I never type anything twice and I know a gazillion tricks and shortcuts.  I work smarter, not harder!!

I spent a lot of time complaining and threatening to quit this stay-in-school  job because I knew I was doing the tasks that no one else wanted to do.  I felt completely taken advantage of.  I was the lowest paid employee and felt like I given the “peon” jobs, jobs that didn’t really matter.  I wanted to do something more glamorous.  I ultimately wanted to get more pay.  I wasn’t even making minimum wage.  Little did I know that I would later use everything that I learned at that stay-in-school job.  In fact, I am still using the things I learned at that job and to be honest, some of those things give me an edge against other persons doing the same job.

My stay-in-school job gave me authentic work experience.  Many students were happy to get paid and even happier to sit at a desk doing nothing but school work or playing on the computer.  I had the opportunity to learn and work!  Not to mention the opportunity to develop relationships that I still maintain today.  I met a woman who taught me all about dressing for success and job etiquette.  She taught me about seasonal clothing and fabrics!  I am still passing along her words of wisdom.  She calls me often to check to see how I am doing and gets a kick out of my career path.  She is one of the references on my resume.  The work experience and the people have greatly contributed to the professional person I am today.

I am saying all of this to say, take advantage of every experience and opportunity that life has to offer.  Take notes and store information.  So what you are not in your dream job or doing what you feel is your life’s work.  God has a unique way of preparing each of us for the task and purpose that lies ahead.  Your “peon” job may just be your stepping stone or the key to the position that He has for you.  Be patient and LEARN!  In other words, take a chill pill and take the opportunity to learn something.  Everything you learn is valuable and can add worth to your life.

Posted: 03 Dec 2009 05:28 PM PST

Across the country in December, families will be coming together for the holidays.  Sometimes the holidays are one of the few times of year that family members see each other. They eat, share stories, and laugh together. Of course, there may be a few family squabbles, but hopefully no mash-potato flinging. Or will there be? Overall, the holidays are rare opportunities for family members to have face-to-face conversations. One critical conversation is talking about estate planning — what happens legally when a loved one passes away.

As confirmed by the Washington Post this week, the stories in Trial & Heirs:  Famous Fortune Fights! are great conversation starters. Of course you could buy the book, but here are some free tips you can use right away. What questions will these tips help you answer?

What will happen once mom and dad pass away?
Have they done their will or trust?  Is it updated?  Where is it?
What professionals do they work with?
Where are the documents located?

The celebrity stories in “Trial & Heirs:  Famous Fortune Fights!” can help you translate the estate planning talk into a fun and entertaining discussion. Really! Here are some easy-to-use tips and conversation starters taken from the stories in the book.

Tip #1 — Bring the celebrities home for the holidays.

If your family member (mom, dad, sister, aunt, grandma) is reluctant to talk about wills and trusts, begin by sharing some stories about celebrity estate planning.  Start with a story about Ray Charles.  He sat his entire family down (which included 12 kids from 9 different mothers!) and discussed what he planned for his estate after his passing.  Encourage your loved ones to talk to each other like Ray Charles.  Turn the uncomfortable topic of wills and trusts into something entertaining!

Tip # 2 — Find out if your loved ones have done their estate planning.

So now you’ve begun the conversation with your family by describing what Ray Charles did, the next question is:  did your loved ones prepare a will or trust yet?  Find out!  Whether we’re 20 or 92 years old, no one is promised tomorrow.  Share the case of Sonny Bono.  He was 62 years old when he unexpectedly passed away in a skiing accident.  Sonny did not have a will or a trust!  His widow endured lots of complications because of Sonny’s lack of planning.  So if your loved ones haven’t done their estate planning, encourage them to make sure to do so.

Tip #3 — Confirm that they have finished what they started.

Maybe you’ve gotten through the first two hurdles, and your family members say, “don’t worry…we’ve taken care of everything”.  Are they sure that they dotted their “i”s and crossed their “t”s?  Share the stories of Heath Ledger who failed to update his will after his daughter was born, and Michael Jackson who caused his family unnecessary trips to the courthouse because he did not properly “fund” his trust. If your loved ones have a will or trust, has it been updated in the recently?  Have they transferred their assets into their trust?  It’s not enough to just “do” the documents, they need to be done the right way and updated with new laws and life changes.

Tip #4 — Verify that the attorney is a specialist.

“Yes,” your loved ones respond, “we just saw our attorney and updated everything.”  Okay… now we’re getting somewhere, but that doesn’t end the conversation.  Does their attorney specialize in estate planning?  If not, going to the attorney to update the documents may not be enough.  Does the attorney use “one size fits all” forms, or customize the documents to your loved one’s needs?  Share the tips on how to make sure that you have a good attorney from “Trial & Heirs” to give your family peace of mind.  Also, make sure that you have the name of the attorney and other professionals in the event that your loved ones unexpectedly pass away.

Tip #5 — Establish the location of the documents.

You’ve almost conquered the list!  You’ve gotten through the first four tips, but where in the world are the documents located?  Your loved ones have done their documents, updated them, and worked with a specialist, but that doesn’t do the family any good if you cannot find them!  Share the story of Florence Griffith Joyner aka Flo-Jo.  Her original estate planning documents were never located and as a result it cost her family a lot of time, money, grief and uncertainty.  Make sure that your loved ones tell you where those critical documents are located and that the trustee or executor can access them.  There’s no point in hiding the will or trust so well that no one can find them or worse, putting them in a safe deposit box that no one can get into!

Alright, the holidays are around the corner and now you’re armed with some tips on the conversation that you really need to have with your family this holiday season.  Remember “Trial & Heirs:  Famous Fortune Fights!” has these stories to start the conversation and so many more!  For more information, sign up for a free preview of the book here.

Written by:  Danielle B. Mayoras, co-author of “Trial & Heirs:  Famous Fortune Fights!” and co-founder and shareholder of The Center for Elder Law, dedicated her legal career to teaching professionals, businesses and the general public about elder law, special needs planning , and general estate planning.  Danielle is a renowned attorney and Credentialed Professional Gerontologist, educating through speaking engagements, print, and broadcast media across the United States.

Posted: 03 Dec 2009 05:28 PM PST

Across the country in December, families will be coming together for the holidays.  Sometimes the holidays are one of the few times of year that family members see each other. They eat, share stories, and laugh together. Of course, there may be a few family squabbles, but hopefully no mash-potato flinging. Or will there be? Overall, the holidays are rare opportunities for family members to have face-to-face conversations. One critical conversation is talking about estate planning — what happens legally when a loved one passes away.

As confirmed by the Washington Post this week, the stories in Trial & Heirs:  Famous Fortune Fights! are great conversation starters. Of course you could buy the book, but here are some free tips you can use right away. What questions will these tips help you answer?

What will happen once mom and dad pass away?
Have they done their will or trust?  Is it updated?  Where is it?
What professionals do they work with?
Where are the documents located?

The celebrity stories in “Trial & Heirs:  Famous Fortune Fights!” can help you translate the estate planning talk into a fun and entertaining discussion. Really! Here are some easy-to-use tips and conversation starters taken from the stories in the book.

Tip #1 — Bring the celebrities home for the holidays.

If your family member (mom, dad, sister, aunt, grandma) is reluctant to talk about wills and trusts, begin by sharing some stories about celebrity estate planning.  Start with a story about Ray Charles.  He sat his entire family down (which included 12 kids from 9 different mothers!) and discussed what he planned for his estate after his passing.  Encourage your loved ones to talk to each other like Ray Charles.  Turn the uncomfortable topic of wills and trusts into something entertaining!

Tip # 2 — Find out if your loved ones have done their estate planning.

So now you’ve begun the conversation with your family by describing what Ray Charles did, the next question is:  did your loved ones prepare a will or trust yet?  Find out!  Whether we’re 20 or 92 years old, no one is promised tomorrow.  Share the case of Sonny Bono.  He was 62 years old when he unexpectedly passed away in a skiing accident.  Sonny did not have a will or a trust!  His widow endured lots of complications because of Sonny’s lack of planning.  So if your loved ones haven’t done their estate planning, encourage them to make sure to do so.

Tip #3 — Confirm that they have finished what they started.

Maybe you’ve gotten through the first two hurdles, and your family members say, “don’t worry…we’ve taken care of everything”.  Are they sure that they dotted their “i”s and crossed their “t”s?  Share the stories of Heath Ledger who failed to update his will after his daughter was born, and Michael Jackson who caused his family unnecessary trips to the courthouse because he did not properly “fund” his trust. If your loved ones have a will or trust, has it been updated in the recently?  Have they transferred their assets into their trust?  It’s not enough to just “do” the documents, they need to be done the right way and updated with new laws and life changes.

Tip #4 — Verify that the attorney is a specialist.

“Yes,” your loved ones respond, “we just saw our attorney and updated everything.”  Okay… now we’re getting somewhere, but that doesn’t end the conversation.  Does their attorney specialize in estate planning?  If not, going to the attorney to update the documents may not be enough.  Does the attorney use “one size fits all” forms, or customize the documents to your loved one’s needs?  Share the tips on how to make sure that you have a good attorney from “Trial & Heirs” to give your family peace of mind.  Also, make sure that you have the name of the attorney and other professionals in the event that your loved ones unexpectedly pass away.

Tip #5 — Establish the location of the documents.

You’ve almost conquered the list!  You’ve gotten through the first four tips, but where in the world are the documents located?  Your loved ones have done their documents, updated them, and worked with a specialist, but that doesn’t do the family any good if you cannot find them!  Share the story of Florence Griffith Joyner aka Flo-Jo.  Her original estate planning documents were never located and as a result it cost her family a lot of time, money, grief and uncertainty.  Make sure that your loved ones tell you where those critical documents are located and that the trustee or executor can access them.  There’s no point in hiding the will or trust so well that no one can find them or worse, putting them in a safe deposit box that no one can get into!

Alright, the holidays are around the corner and now you’re armed with some tips on the conversation that you really need to have with your family this holiday season.  Remember “Trial & Heirs:  Famous Fortune Fights!” has these stories to start the conversation and so many more!  For more information, sign up for a free preview of the book here.

Written by:  Danielle B. Mayoras, co-author of “Trial & Heirs:  Famous Fortune Fights!” and co-founder and shareholder of The Center for Elder Law, dedicated her legal career to teaching professionals, businesses and the general public about elder law, special needs planning , and general estate planning.  Danielle is a renowned attorney and Credentialed Professional Gerontologist, educating through speaking engagements, print, and broadcast media across the United States.

Journey Church,

It’s that time of year again. No, not Christmas or New Year’s. It’s the Daniel Fast 2010!

The church-wide Daniel Fast will begin on January 3rd, so that means we’ve got to start getting prepared now.

On this blog, you will find a Guide To The Daniel Fast and are able to download the Fast Food Cookbook. You can use these resources to start getting you and your family prepared today. Not only are we preparing our hearts for the Daniel Fast – we are also preparing our pantries!

Use the comments section to share with us your recipes,  testimonies of what God has done for you during past fasts, and what you are expecting from this upcoming fast. When the fast begins, be sure to come back and share with everyone what God is doing in your life during this time of prayer and fasting.

What are you expecting during the Daniel Fast this year?

Successful projects are associated with quality performance (proficiency) by one or more key players in the new products operation. A firm’s key players will vary some, depending on strategy, but we usually see the same bunch. First on most lists is technology. But technology does not mean just in research labs. A technology is a system or set of people and things that permit work. A soft drink bottling system is a technology.

In a virtual tie with technology is a bundle of skills in marketing. The needs and desires of the marketplace are an essential input to product innovation. And the end product must be presented to the end user in a way that stimulates trial and adoption. Just as some marketing firms have lacked technical skills, some technical firms have lacked marketing skills.

A new member of the triad is operations/manufacturing—maybe a factory, a laboratory, a set of carpet cleaning franchisees, an actuarial department in an insurance company, or even the legislature in a government. It is where the good or service is prepared or offered. It could be the classroom where this subject is discussed tomorrow. No matter how well designed or marketed, if the organization cannot deliver on the promised product, success cannot be assured. In the best firms today, manufacturing capability begins its development at the very start of the project, and may even be decided in the strategy if that is where the technology strength is located.

There are some other capabilities needed today, though the list is industry dependent. Two skills are moving up the list—human resource management (HRM) and technology (IT). They both relate to how new product projects are being managed today. HRM people are apparently critical in building the inventory of potential team leaders, and in training those selected for this most difficult task. IT people hold the answer to collocation, the physical grouping of teams that contribute so much to a new product project. Their answer: digital collocation, or the virtual collocated team. On a slightly broader plain, IT also permits effective networking, something we will see actually makes the “company within a company: that new products projects become.

My Consultancy–Asif J. Mir - Management Consultant–transforms organizations where people have the freedom to be creative, a place that brings out the best in everybody–an open, fair place where people have a sense that what they do matters. For details please visit www.asifjmir.com, and my Lectures.