Check out our January newsletter!
It never ceases to amaze me how quickly 24 hours (or 12 months, for that matter) can pass by. It seems like only yesterday that I wrote the cover article for last January’s newsletter. Time is rarely on anyone’s side these days. In the rush, it’s common for even the most diligent people to overlook simple things that become significant issues over time. Sometimes, they pay a bill late or put aside a prescription refill until they really need it. To overlook something now and then is human, but to neglect to address something important for too long can be hazardous. This risk is particularly relevant to estate planning. By the time this month’s newsletter reaches your mailboxes, our Client Care Program members should have also received their annual Client Care package. As with every package, this year’s version includes an overview of your existing plan, including your current trustees, beneficiaries, and health surrogates. Even if the package arrived on a busy day and you decided to review it later, now is the time to give it a close look. Don’t assume everything is exactly the same as it was this time last year and simply file away the package without opening it. Perhaps you’ll notice something in the paperwork that needs to be updated to reflect a life change that occurred within the past 12 months. Something as seemingly minor as getting a new car, opening a new bank account, or making a charitable gift could change your plan. More significant things, like selling your home or purchasing a new property, could alter your existing documents considerably. Of course, if you’ve divorced, remarried, or experienced the loss of Trusts and Timing Protect What’s Precious and Personal
someone named in your plan, those events need to be factored into your decisions moving forward as well. We understand that estate planning isn’t always top of mind for most people, but giving your plan a serious review, at least at the start of the year, is one of the best ways to protect your assets and safeguard your wishes and your loved ones’ security. Having an open door to contact us at any time you have a question is one of the many benefits of our Client Care Program. We encourage you to let us know if you need to refresh your plan or explore new ways to better ensure asset alignment. Life is unpredictable, and even the best laid plans can go sideways if you’re not on top of things. Most importantly, never rely on information you may read online to guide your estate plan. Not all sources are created equal, so contacting our firm with specific questions is the most dependable way to receive the most current and legally sound information available. Additionally, some financial planners, as well-intentioned as they may be, aren’t always the best resources to address nuances with your current situation. Because trusts are set up in specific ways for specific purposes, it is safest to seek direction from those who helped you devise that trust in the first place. With 2026 still new, make reviewing your Client Care package as soon as possible one of your resolutions. The sooner you identify areas that need to be changed, the sooner you can ensure everything will fall into place if your plan needs to be implemented. Time may pass more quickly than any of us would like, but we always have plenty of it here to help you.
We’re now sharing short videos and helpful content on estate planning across our social media platforms. These accounts provide everything from alerts about common misconceptions to planning tips we wish more folks knew. They’re a great way to stay informed — and maybe even entertained! To see all our channels, please scan the QR code provided or visit SheppardLawFirm.com/socials . Thank you for taking a moment to visit and follow our platforms. We appreciate your continued trust in our firm.
–Michael Hill
1 (239) 244-3441
JANUARY 2026
Ditch the Quick Fix It’s 3 p.m., and you’ve hit the dreaded midday slump. For many Americans, coffee or an energy drink may fuel their second wind. When tired, we tend to turn to external sources for a boost, but it’s a temporary fix; we’ll encounter the same Your diet may also need adjustments. If you skip meals, eat junk food, or snack right Energize Naturally With Simple Daily Habits
before bed, you’ll feel it later. During the day, eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and nutrient- rich foods instead. Make time for every meal, stepping away from your work while you eat. If you do not get enough nutrients, supplement your diet with vitamins. Consider your daily movement as well. It might sound counterproductive, but exercise can substantially boost our energy. Exercise improves oxygen and nutrient circulation while allowing us to get better sleep. You don’t have to go through life lacking energy. Make adjustments today for a more energized tomorrow.
issue the next day. Instead, we need to look internally and make changes to improve overall well-being for the long term. A healthier, more consistent way to increase energy is possible! Do you stay up late every night? Do you use your phone right before you fall asleep? Do you have trouble waking up in the morning? If you answered yes to any of these questions, it’s time to give your sleep a facelift. Try to go to bed at the same time every night, ideally around 9 or 10 p.m. Put your phone away at least an hour before bed. If this is difficult, practice meditation whenever you feel tempted to grab your phone.
t o r K e y s t o M a x i
January is typically the time when many people purchase gym memberships in an attempt to fulfill their New Year’s resolutions to get in better physical shape, but how many of them devote that much energy to giving their minds a great workout? January is National Brain Teaser Month, a celebration of the puzzles, games, and other activities that challenge our thinking and help keep our brains functioning well. Additionally, Good Memory Day, a time to reflect on the beautiful and cherished moments from our past, is celebrated on Jan. 19. As a firm dedicated to estate planning, we understand the importance of preserving memories and protecting beloved assets. We also appreciate the value a person places on keeping their personal wishes and legacy plans organized and accurately represented. Just as keeping coherent
tax records, writing a grocery list, and handling monthly bills require organization and careful evaluation, estate planning necessitates a similar approach in crafting what you’d like your legacy to be after you’re gone. The sharper your mind, the more efficient and worry-free your plan will be. So, what are some of the best ways for people, especially seniors, to stay mentally strong? Well, for one thing, there’s a reason why we always feature sudoku in every newsletter. In addition to being a fun puzzle, it has the benefit of putting your brain to the test. Of course, you can use numerous other methods to help keep your thinking crystal clear. According to Harvard Medical School, cognitive decline can be reduced by refraining from smoking, limiting alcohol consumption to one drink a day, staying physically active, and maintaining strong and
positive social connections. Additionally, pursuing new hobbies, serving as a mentor, and repeating new things you’ve learned out loud or writing them down can contribute to maintaining a nimble mind. You can also do something else: Attend our Client Care workshops. These meetings are always a fun way to connect with us, stay up to date on the latest news in the world of estate planning, and explore specific topics that will make your planning process smoother and more positive for you and your loved ones. Please refer to your new Client Care package for information on a special workshop we are hosting on Feb. 4 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. We look forward to seeing you there! Your mind is a beautiful gift. Take the opportunity this month to enjoy it to its fullest!
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HEIRS AND DISHARMONY The Price of a Poor Trustee Choice
Few scenarios are as sad and emotionally challenging as a family torn apart by a poorly considered estate plan.
when asked specific questions about distributions, money, and the logistics surrounding the arrangement. Feeling shut out of the process, the rest of the family grew suspicious and eventually had to take the matter to court. Naturally, our client hadn’t envisioned such a negative ordeal when he chose his eldest son as the trustee; he simply went with what he thought was the most obvious choice. Just because someone is the oldest doesn’t necessarily mean they’re the most equipped to handle certain obligations related to an estate plan. Being an effective trustee requires organization, strong communication skills, emotional strength, and complete transparency. Anything short of these qualities could lead to miscommunication and disputes that could have been easily avoided. An estate plan isn’t a path set in stone; you can always revisit and revise it to ensure greater security for your legacy. Please contact us if you’d like to reconsider your existing plan or reevaluate those you’ve entrusted to
Of all the moving parts involved in creating a smooth and easily executed plan, selecting an ideal trustee is one of the most essential. Unfortunately, we’ve encountered situations over the years where a client chooses a trustee who ultimately proves to be unfit or unable to fulfill their duties, causing familial strife and even litigation on top of the emotional toll of losing a loved one.
As just one example, a client’s daughter contacted us after he had passed away. On paper, her father’s estate plan was well-structured and clearly stated. The trust was funded, and he had named his oldest son as the trustee. However, his daughter expressed grave concerns over her sibling’s ability to uphold his commitments in his assigned role. According to her, he had a habit of poor recordkeeping and failing to respond to emails regarding the trust. He also became evasive
carry out one of the most critical duties needed to ensure harmony within your family once you’re gone.
TAKE A BREAK!
INGREDIENTS
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4 bacon slices, chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
• • • • • •
1/2 tsp cumin 1 1/2 tsp salt
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5–6 large jalapeño peppers, minced with stems and seeds removed
1 lb gold potatoes, peeled and cut into bite-size pieces 8 oz full-fat cream cheese
• • •
1/2 small onion, chopped 4 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup shredded fresh cheddar cheese
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 tbsp lemon juice
DIRECTIONS 1. Place a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy, then remove to a plate. 2. Add jalapeños and onion to the pot and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. 3. Add garlic to the pot and sauté for 1 minute. 4. Stir in chicken broth, cumin, salt, and potatoes, and simmer for 20 minutes. 5. Place cream cheese in a mixing bowl and add 1 ladle of hot broth before mixing. 6. Add cream cheese mixture to the pot and stir. 7. Remove from heat and add cheddar cheese and lemon juice, stirring until the cheese melts. 8. Pour into serving bowls, topping with bacon and more shredded cheese.
ANSWER ON TOP OF PAGE 4
3 (239) 244-3441
Inspired by TheRecipeCritic.com
9100 College Pointe Court Fort Myers, FL 33919 (239) 244-3441
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INSIDE this issue
SUDOKU ANSWER
Preserve Your Purpose and Peace PAGE 1 The Healthy Cure for Your 3 p.m. Crash PAGE 2 Think and Thrive PAGE 2 The Hidden Risk Behind Every Trust PAGE 3 Jalapeño Popper Soup PAGE 3 Your Guide to the Great Barrier Reef’s Most Epic Experiences PAGE 4
The best compliments we receive are your referrals. When you refer us to your loved ones, we do all we can to exceed expectations.
Uncover the Magic of Australia’s Living Wonder Swim With Turtles, Whales, and Wonder at the Great Barrier Reef
If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring a place so vast it dwarfs entire countries, Australia’s Great Barrier Reef should be at the top of your bucket list. Stretching over 1,400 miles along the eastern coastline, this paradise is larger than the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Belgium, and the Netherlands combined! The Great Barrier Reef is home to dazzling coral gardens, colorful fish, giant clams, and six of the seven known marine turtle species. From snorkelers to skydivers, the Reef offers something unforgettable for every kind of adventurer.
Whitsunday Islands are perfect for cruising, whether on a bareboat charter or a luxury superyacht. For a show-stopping perspective, consider a scenic helicopter transfer to the Outer Reef. From the air, the patterns of coral, tiny secluded islands, and endless shades of blue make it clear just how massive this natural wonder truly is. For a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, the Reefsleep Experience takes you to Hardy Reef after day-trippers have left. Snorkel, dive, or relax on the Reefworld platform, then enjoy a barbecue as the sun sets. When night falls, snuggle into your floating tent under the stars or take a night dive to see the reef glow in a completely different light. Thrill-seekers, take note: Mission Beach offers a jaw-dropping skydiving experience over the reef and surrounding rainforest, plunging from 15,000 feet with expert guides to ensure an unforgettable ride. No matter how you experience it (by snorkel, yacht, helicopter, or parachute), the Great Barrier Reef is an adventure that promises awe, excitement, and memories you’ll treasure forever.
Underwater, the options are endless. Lizard Island is a snorkeler’s paradise where you can float above giant clam beds and glide alongside green turtles.
Divers flock to Cod Hole for an up-close look at the Reef’s most famous marine residents, while those craving a more remote experience can hop aboard a dive ship to explore untouched corners teeming with biodiversity. Prefer to keep your head dry? The 74 tropical
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