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April 2026
Kindergarten Lessons for Grown-Ups
Simple Rules From the Small Kids
If you ask me what I remember from kindergarten, I don’t start with crayons or juice breaks. My mind goes straight to a Frisbee and a pizza disaster. One school day, I threw a Frisbee over the fence surrounding the playground. In my memory, that fence was 12 feet tall and might as well have had guard towers at the corners. It was there to keep small kids in, not see how far we could launch toys. The teachers weren’t happy about me doing that, but I didn’t get hauled off in handcuffs. I just learned there are boundaries you test once and then think twice about next time. Another day, my mom picked me up from school and stopped to grab a pizza for the office. I insisted on carrying the box. She finally handed it over, probably against her better judgment. I made it a few steps out the door before it flipped and landed upside down on the sidewalk. The pizza stayed in the box, but it wasn’t exactly presentable anymore. Again, I didn’t get in serious trouble. It just taught me that wanting to help and being ready to help aren’t always the same thing. April 21 is National Kindergarten Day, and seeing it on the calendar took me back a few decades. It also made me think of Robert Fulgham’s book “All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten.” In it, he talks about basics like sharing, cleaning up your own mess, and playing fair. Looking back at those “kindergarten rules,” I started to see how much of what we need as adults really does come from simple childhood lessons. Of course, not all the simple lessons we learn as kids are fun ones. Fulgham also talks about how even the goldfish, pets, and little classroom plants all die. I think we start to understand loss and grief at a very young age, even when we’re still figuring things out. I remember crying over a snowman I built because it melted, and I thought that meant it died. I also remember feeling confused at my grandfather’s funeral. He passed when I was very young, and as I stood next to his open casket, I was thinking he was just asleep and would wake up at any moment. We might not fully understand those moments as kids, but they stay with you. I wonder now if those early experiences with loss are part of why time can feel strange as we get older. There might be some days that creep by, but most of the time, they seem like they’re over
A Question to Ask (or Answer for) a Loved One Asking and answering important questions helps preserve your family’s values and life lessons for generations to come. What’s one “kindergarten rule” you’d like to practice more consistently?
before they start. And that brings another “kindergarten rule” to mind: Slow down.
As kids, adults often told us that when we were running in the halls or mindlessly flying through a worksheet during class. As adults, I think it has more to do with how we treat the time we have. Many of us pack our calendars and race from one thing to the next but still feel like we’re not doing enough. We forget we have a say in how we approach our lives. We can keep living in a hurry, or we can choose to slow down and actually pay attention to where we are and what we’re doing right now. Fulgham ends his list by reminding us of the first word in the old “Dick and Jane” books: LOOK. I still like that one. Pay attention. Think things through. Ask good questions. Those are also
kindergarten habits, and they matter just as much now as they did at 5. If we can slow down, clean up our own messes, and stay curious instead of set in our ways, I think our kindergarten teachers would be proud of the adults we turned out to be.
Philip J. Corson, Founder
“Do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God.” MICAH 6:8
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A SMARTER APPROACH TO ESTATE PLANNING IN THE DIGITAL AGE If It Has a Login, It Needs a Plan
Our lives don’t fit neatly into filing cabinets anymore. Bank statements live in apps, family photos are stored in the cloud, and even meaningful personal correspondence often exists only behind a login screen. Estate planning has evolved to meet this reality, and today’s approach reflects how we actually live, work, and stay connected. Blending traditional planning with modern tools lets you organize legal documents and online property in a single, secure, streamlined system. It’s not about replacing thoughtful planning, but enhancing it with technology that makes preparation easier and protection stronger. What Makes Digital Planning Different Instead of relying solely on paper documents tucked away in a drawer, digital estate planning uses secure platforms to house and manage critical information. These systems can safely store estate documents, track online accounts, and simplify life change updates. Many
also allow for electronic signing and controlled access, which can be invaluable during emergencies. For families spread across cities or even states, this kind of accessibility brings peace of mind. Loved ones aren’t left searching for documents or guessing where vital information might be stored. How to Protect What Can’t Be Touched Online accounts, digital photos, cryptocurrency, business websites, and subscription services are all part of a modern estate. Without clear instructions,
these assets can be difficult or even impossible for loved ones to access later. A thoughtful digital plan identifies these items, explains how they should be handled, and legally authorizes the right people to step in when necessary. Designating someone to oversee digital matters ensures your online presence is handled with intention, not confusion. Where Technology and Legal Guidance Meet While online tools make organizing easier, they aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Generic templates can overlook state-specific requirements or miss important details that could cause problems in the future. That’s why the strongest estate plans combine digital convenience with professional legal insight. An attorney ensures everything is compliant, enforceable, and aligned with your long-term goals while still embracing the efficiency technology offers.
Allergy Season Survival Guide for Your Furry Friends Paws, Pollen, and Prevention
As flowers bloom and the air fills with pollen, it’s easy to forget that spring can be a tough season for our furry companions. While we can grab tissues for our runny noses, dogs and cats show their allergies differently. Instead of sneezing dramatically, they scratch, lick, chew, and act cranky. If your pet seems restless, uncomfortable, or just “off,” it might be the season talking. Your fur baby deserves relief, so here are tips to help them. Subtle Signs You Might Be Missing Allergies in pets aren’t always obvious. Watch for these telltale clues: • Endless paw licking, belly rubbing, or ear scratching • Red, irritated skin, thinning fur, or scabbing • Foul-smelling ears or sensitivity when touched • Occasional sneezes, sniffs, or coughs, especially in cats
Even minor irritation can spiral into chronic skin infections, painful ears, or restless nights for your pet. Catching the problem early keeps them happier and healthier. Layered Solutions for a Happier Pet When it comes to seasonal allergies, there’s no magic wand. The best approach is a layered one: • Outsmart Allergens: Keep walks short during peak pollen hours, wipe down paws and bellies after outdoor adventures, and close windows when pollen counts soar. • Soothing Topicals: Medicated shampoos, leave-in sprays, and ear cleaners calm irritation and prevent infections. • Smart Medications: From antihistamines to targeted treatments like Apoquel and Cytopoint, these options tackle itch without slowing your pet down. Always consult your
veterinarian to determine what medications may be right for your pet. • Nutrition Matters: Omega-3s, hypoallergenic diets, and skin- supporting supplements can make your pet’s coat glow and inflammation fade. Everyday Habits That Work Wonders Small, consistent steps go a long way: Wipe paws after walks, vacuum bedding regularly, swap scented products for gentle alternatives, and check skin daily for flare- ups. Prevention is easier than treatment and keeps your pet purring, feeling their best, and playing like their happiest selves. With a bit of observation, patience, and a multifaceted plan, you can help your furry friend enjoy the season itch-free and keep tails wagging all the way through spring.
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A Scam So Brilliant It Fooled France and Doomed a Queen THE DIAMOND NECKLACE THAT CHANGED HISTORY
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Few scandals in history glitter quite as dangerously as the Affair of the Diamond Necklace. It had everything (deception, ambition, romance, and one spectacular piece of jewelry), yet its most ironic twist is this: The woman most blamed for it, Queen Marie Antoinette, had no idea it was happening at all.
The story begins not in the halls of Versailles, but with Jeanne de Valois- Saint-Rémy (self-styled Comtesse de La Motte),
a woman determined to live far beyond her modest means. Although she claimed noble blood, de La Motte was a con artist willing to sacrifice anything for status. So, when attempts to meet the Queen failed, she changed tactics. Her perfect target appeared in Cardinal de Rohan, a powerful clergyman desperate to regain royal favor after years in the Queen’s bad graces. De La Mott convinced him she was secretly close to Marie Antoinette, whispering promises of forgiveness and influence. To sell the illusion, she produced forged letters written in the Queen’s voice, sealed with her authority, and filled with quiet requests. At the same time, an extravagant diamond necklace sat unsold, its creators teetering on the brink of financial ruin. The breathtaking piece was estimated to be worth $15 million and was famously rejected by Marie Antoinette herself for its extravagance in a time of despair. De La Motte seized the moment. Through her fabricated letters, the “Queen” expressed private interest, suggesting the Cardinal discreetly purchase the necklace on her behalf. One moonlit meeting in the gardens of Versailles sealed the deception. De La Motte sent a woman resembling the Queen to offer reassurance to the Cardinal. Convinced he had regained favor, he agreed to the purchase. The necklace passed hands, never reaching the Queen, and its diamonds were swiftly sold off abroad. The scheme unraveled when payments stopped, and questions followed. When the jewelers approached Marie Antoinette, her shock was genuine. Arrests followed, trials were held, and punishments were handed down. De La Motte escaped prison and fled to London, where she rewrote the story to her advantage, casting the Queen as the true villain. Though innocent, Marie Antoinette’s reputation never recovered. In a time of hunger, debt, and unrest, the public believed what fit their anger. The scandal hardened resentment toward the monarchy, helping set the stage for the revolution to come and the Queen’s execution.
Crab Rangoon Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
• 1/2 lb elbow pasta • 8 oz Jack cheese, grated • 8 oz cream cheese • 1 bunch scallions, chopped • 1/2 cup pickled jalapeños, chopped (optional)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce • 1/4 cup milk • 1/2 tbsp red pepper flakes • 1/2 lb lump crab • 12 wonton wrappers
Directions 1. Bring water to a boil for the pasta and preheat the oven to 350 F. 2. Drop pasta into boiling water. 3. In a bowl, mix all the ingredients except pasta and wonton wrappers; stir well. 4. Just before the pasta is ready, add about 1/2 cup of pasta water to the cheese mixture; stir well. 5. Strain pasta and add to cheese mixture. Stir, then place it in a baking dish or individual ramekins. 6. Bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and creamy. 7. While baking, cut wontons into triangles and fry batches in oil until crispy. 8. Drain wontons and season with salt. 9. Serve pasta with the crispy wonton wrappers.
Inspired by TheFoodInMyBeard.com
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INSIDE THIS ISSUE
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Slowing Down to Kindergarten Speed
Why Digital Estate Planning Is No Longer Optional The Secret Signs of Pet Allergies Most Owners Miss
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Crab Rangoon Mac and Cheese
The Jewelry Scandal That Tarnished Marie Antoinette Forever Heath Ledger Was 28, and His Estate Plan Was Already Outdated
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Why Heath Ledger’s Estate Is a Warning for Every Young Parent When Life Changes Faster Than Your Will
Heath Ledger’s death at just 28 years old stunned the world. Fans mourned the loss of a rare talent, a performer whose career was still unfolding, and whose most iconic role, as the Joker in “The Dark Knight,” had yet to be seen in theaters. But beyond the headlines and tributes, Ledger’s passing revealed what can happen when an estate plan no longer matches someone’s life. At the time of his death in January 2008, Ledger was not only an internationally recognized actor but also a young father. His daughter, Matilda, had been born three years earlier, and his personal and professional life had changed dramatically since his early twenties, but
While Ledger’s family ultimately chose to redirect the inheritance to Matilda, that outcome depended entirely on their cooperation. Had circumstances been different, the result could have involved prolonged legal disputes, emotional strain, and uncertainty for a grieving family. Ledger’s situation also underscores the risks of cross-border estate planning. His will was prepared and filed in Australia, even though he lived and worked in the United States and held assets there. For those with international connections, this can create delays, added expense, and conflicting legal standards, issues that surface when loved ones are least prepared to manage them.
his estate plan remained frozen in time. His will, drafted in 2003, reflected a much earlier chapter of his life, before parenthood, before significant wealth, and before complex international ties. Because the document was never updated, it failed to account for the people and responsibilities that mattered most at the time of his death. His daughter and her mother, actress Michelle Williams, were not named beneficiaries. Instead, his estate (estimated at more than $16 million) was left to his parents and siblings.
Perhaps the most powerful lesson from Ledger’s estate is how easy it is to postpone updates. Many people assume estate planning is something to revisit “later,” after marriage, after children grow up, after life settles down. But life rarely pauses long enough to allow for perfect timing. Ledger’s story illustrates how quickly circumstances can change, and how costly it can be when legal documents don’t keep pace.
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