CRAFT A HEARTFELT LEGACY The Emotional Power of Love Letters in Estate Planning
Legal documents, asset distribution, and preparing for “the worst” — that’s what most people think of when they hear the phrase “estate planning.” Yet, it doesn’t have to be this daunting. In fact, an often-overlooked element can bring a sense of love and care: the incorporation of personal love letters. This approach formalizes your financial wishes, all while capturing the essence of your legacy, offering a profound way to connect with your family and friends even after you’re gone. What Are ‘Love Letters’ in Estate Planning? In estate planning, a love letter isn’t just a casual note; it’s a heartfelt message intended to be read by your loved ones after your passing. These letters can express a range of emotions — from love and gratitude to hopes and dreams for your loved ones’ futures. They can share personal stories, celebrate your relationships,
and impart your wisdom, providing comfort and inspiration during a difficult time.
your pride or gratitude, or offer guidance and encouragement for the future.
The true value of including love letters in your estate plan goes beyond legalities. These messages stand as a testament to your life and relationships, ensuring your emotional legacy accompanies your material bequests.
Integration With Your Estate Plan: Make sure your love letters are recognized in your estate documentation. You can include them with your will and other important papers or specify a method and timing for their distribution, such as through your executor or a personal attorney. A More Thoughtful Approach to Planning Love letters transform estate planning from a purely financial act to an emotionally meaningful gesture. Embracing this more personal side of estate planning can provide much-needed comfort to your loved ones and enrich the legacy you leave behind. Consider taking the time to write these love letters; it’s an opportunity to make a lasting impact beyond financial means.
How to Incorporate Love Letters Into Your Estate Plan
Identify Your Recipients: Start by deciding whom to address in your letters. While family members are common recipients, consider including close friends, mentors, or colleagues who have significantly impacted your life. Content Considerations: Reflect on the memories and messages you want to share. Each letter can be unique and tailored to the individual recipient. You might recount fond memories, express
SUDOKU
MICHELE’S RECIPE CORNER
OLIVE OIL CAKE WITH HONEY-YOGURT CREAM AND STRAWBERRIES
INSPIRED BY FOODANDWINE.COM
INGREDIENTS
DIRECTIONS
• 1 1/2 cups almond flour • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour • 1 tsp baking powder • 1/2 tsp baking soda • 1/2 cup granulated sugar • 4 large eggs • 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil • 1 tsp lime zest • 3 1/2 tbsp lime juice • 1 tsp vanilla extract • 2 qts fresh strawberries, quartered • 1 cup plain whole-milk Greek yogurt • 1/4 cup heavy cream • 1/4 cup honey
1. Preheat oven to 350 F. Lightly grease 8-inch springform pan. Line with parchment paper and lightly grease. 2. In medium bowl, whisk together flours, baking powder, and baking soda. 3. In a stand mixer, whisk sugar and eggs on medium-high, about 3 minutes. Add oil, lime zest, lime juice, and vanilla. On low, gradually add flour mixture until just incorporated. 4. Pour batter into pan. Bake until golden brown and toothpick comes out with crumbs, 40–45 minutes. Cool for 10 minutes. Invert cake out of pan onto wire rack and let cool completely. 5. Whisk yogurt, cream, and honey. Top each cake slice with spoonfuls of yogurt mixture and strawberries.
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