Zihmer Law Firm - February 2025

A Gift of Love: Why Estate Planning Matters

Prevents Family Disputes While we all hope the things we leave behind won’t be a source of conflict, family disputes are common following the passing of a loved one. Heightened stress and emotions can fuel disagreements, but clearly outlining your wishes reduces conflict and helps preserve relationships during an already difficult time. Protects Loved Ones Financially During your lifetime, you’ve shown how much you care by providing for your family financially, and this doesn’t have to end after you’re gone. Whether it’s setting up a trust for minor children or ensuring your spouse is cared for, a well-structured plan supports your family’s financial security. Plan with love in mind. Estate planning is a heartfelt way to show your family how much you truly care. By taking the time to create or revise your plan today, you can give your loved ones peace of mind long into the future. If you’re ready to start or have any questions, call our office and we’ll be happy to help.

When we think of love, grand gestures and heartfelt moments often come to mind. However, one of the most meaningful ways to show love for your family is to plan for their future. While estate planning is about securing your finances, it’s also about ensuring your loved ones will be supported and cared for no matter what happens. Here’s why estate planning is the ultimate gift of love. Reduces Stress for Your Family Losing a loved one is already difficult enough without the added burden of navigating a complex legal process. A detailed estate plan reduces ambiguity and makes it easier for your family to follow your wishes. While you may not be there physically to provide comfort, the plan you leave behind will reduce the financial and emotional stress your loved ones feel after you’re gone. Gives Time to Grieve Without an estate plan, your assets may be subject to probate, a costly and time-consuming process that can take months — or even years. Planning ahead ensures your family can focus on healing rather than managing decision-making, legal paperwork, and conflict.

Inspired by LeCremeDeLaCrumb.com

Skillet Chicken in Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce

Ingredients • 2 tbsp butter • 5 boneless, skinless chicken thighs • 3 garlic cloves, minced • 2 tbsp herbes de Provence • 3/4 cup canned sun-dried

Directions 1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook for 7–8 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside. 2. In the same pan, add garlic, herbes de Provence, tomatoes, chicken broth, cream, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, pine nuts, and spinach and stir to combine. Bring to a boil, and stir periodically until thickened and spinach is wilted, about 3 minutes. 3. Return chicken to the pan and top with salt, pepper, more Parmesan cheese, and thyme, and serve over rice or linguine.

tomatoes, drained and julienned

• 1 cup chicken broth • 1/2 cup heavy cream • 2/3 cup shredded Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving

Take a Break

• 2 tbsp lemon juice • 1/4 cup pine nuts • 1 cup spinach

• Fresh thyme, for topping • Salt and pepper to taste • Cooked rice or linguine, for serving

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