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Plan today for peace of mind tomorrow. JUNE 2024
KEEPING THE SEASON ALIVE THE SWEET EMBRACE OF SUMMER
As a child, one of the best sounds in the world was the final school bell on the last day of school before summer break. Thinking back, I remember the electrifying excitement of heading home from school that day without having to return for over two months — there truly was nothing sweeter. Now, I have the opportunity to relive this through my kids. In May, the countdown begins, and in June, summer is in full swing in our home. As adults, we may not enjoy the lengthy summer breaks of our childhood, but that doesn’t mean we can’t capture some of that seasonal magic. While taking three months off isn’t possible for many of us, I still try to embrace the joys of summer. I reminisce about my favorite childhood summer activities — long evenings, outdoor adventures, the sun’s warmth, stunning sunsets, and the taste of fresh fruit — and make a point to enjoy these delights in my adult life, too. During the week, we keep our kids screen-free, but over the weekend, they get some time to catch up on their favorite shows or play on a tablet or computer. This means our kids are the noisy, energetic ones in the neighborhood, always out biking or splashing around in the pool — and I wouldn’t have it any other “As adults, we may not enjoy the lengthy summer breaks of our childhood, but that doesn’t mean we can’t capture some of that seasonal magic. ”
way. Despite the chaos, those long summer days filled with barbecues with friends, pool games, and basking in the sunshine are incredibly precious.
As adults, we still have to drag ourselves to work over these precious summer months. But, for me, not having to wake up and rush my kids out the door to school each morning feels like a mini vacation in itself! I cherish the long evenings and abundant sunlight, perfect for family bike rides or extra time in the backyard. We also make the most of the season by hitting the beach and taking trips to enjoy the warmer weather as much as possible. Summer truly captures the essence of life’s simple pleasures and small joys, from the sweet taste of strawberries and watermelon to the warm sun upon your skin. Children have so much fun wielding squirt guns and tossing water balloons, fully immersing themselves in the innocence of youthful summers. After all, it’s the season of barbeques and ice cream melting down the cone with golden evenings perfect for backyard festivities and late-night stargazing.
While our summer breaks may look different than they did in childhood, this time of year holds a special significance if we embrace it. Whether we’re enjoying the fresh produce or simply lounging in the sunshine, summer is a reminder to slow down and enjoy life’s simple delights.
–Andrea Shoup
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Master Your Money With Reverse Budgeting Eating Well on a Budget
Are you tired of spending more money on fewer ingredients? You are not alone. While prices for most consumer goods have increased, food costs have increased even more. Grocery prices have increased by 25% since 2020, outpacing inflation by 6%. By buying food that costs less, lasts longer, and feeds more people, you can keep your grocery bills manageable while still eating well. Look for these foods at the grocery store to keep your wallet and pantry full! Ground Meat Whether it’s chicken, beef, turkey, or pork, ground meat is cheap and usable in many recipes. In addition to a range of options to meet dietary restrictions and preferences, ground meat is sold in larger quantities and costs less than many other forms of meat. Despite not being a “prime cut” option, ground meat is still full of protein that satisfies your hunger. Peanut Butter While everyone loves peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, this inexpensive ingredient can also be used in a number of other recipes. It can be used as a delicious protein additive to smoothies or spread on celery to make ants on a log. Tortillas Tortillas come in two main varieties: corn and flour. The former is more traditional and less expensive, but if you prefer flour, it’s still an economical option. While you can buy pre-cooked tortillas, the flavor is much better when you cook them yourself. If you buy in bulk, you can save the tortillas you aren’t ready to use by freezing them, allowing you to save more and only use what you need. Tortillas are also used by astronauts as a substitute for bread since they don’t leave crumbs when you eat them. If they are good enough for astronauts, they’re good enough for us!
Off the Radar
HIDDEN GEM VACATION DESTINATIONS
Crater of Diamonds State Park If you have ever felt envious of the prospectors who made their riches during the California Gold Rush, then pay a visit to Crater of Diamonds State Park in Arkansas, where you can discover your own hidden gems! You can discover rare rocks and minerals in a massive field birthed by volcanic activity, including diamonds, amethysts, garnets, and quartz. The best part? Anything you find, you can keep! Seekers have found more than 35,000 diamonds at the park since it opened in 1972, and with some luck, you could add a few more to that tally!
Are you tired of visiting hyped-up vacation destinations or getting lost in a big city or crowded national park? If so, consider a holiday at a less congested, more laid-back locale. These hidden gems offer beautiful views and exciting excursions — all without the headaches that come with vacationing to big-name destinations!
Pinnacles National Park Make your way north to California’s Pinnacles National Park to enjoy the splendor of nature without having to share space with millions of tourists. With over 30 miles of hiking trails crisscrossing rocky hills and river-strewn caverns, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for memorable adventure. Despite its wondrous views, Pinnacles was named the 15th least-visited national park in 2023, with just over 340,000 annual visitors.
Crater Lake National Park Make an excursion to Oregon and dive into the deepest lake in the country! Crater Lake National Park’s namesake was formed when a volcanic eruption triggered a mountain to come apart in spectacular fashion. You can stay at plenty of campsites and find excellent fishing in the lake’s pristine and seemingly bottomless water. If you are a fan of hiking, fishing, or breathtaking views, then Crater Lake is for you.
Plan today for peace
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Your Guide to Summer Estate Planning Prepare for Tomorrow
Delightful Banana Bread
Ingredients
During the busy school year, teachers and parents alike are often so wrapped up in lesson planning, grading, and tending to their students’ needs that personal affairs like estate planning often take a back seat. However, summer is the perfect time to focus on these essential tasks. At Shoup Legal, we recognize the importance of this period and are ready to assist everyone in securing their futures!
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2 cups all-purpose flour 1 tsp baking powder
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1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp baking soda
2 cups mashed ripe bananas 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup butter, softened
Directions
Summer Estate Planning Checklist
1. Preheat oven to 350 F and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan. 2. Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. 3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. 4. Add eggs and mashed bananas and mix until blended. 5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, stirring until blended. 6. Stir in walnuts. 7. Pour batter into prepared pan. 8. Bake for 65–70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool before serving.
Assess your current situation. Review any existing wills, trusts, or other estate planning documents. Are they up to date? Reflect on any life changes such as marriages, divorces, births, or property acquisitions that may require updates to these documents. Define your goals. What are your objectives for your estate? Whether you want to ensure financial security for your children, support a spouse, or make charitable donations, clearly defining your goals can guide the planning process. Gather important documents. Compile documents such as property deeds, financial statements, insurance policies, and other relevant financial information. These will be crucial in creating a comprehensive estate plan. Consult with our professionals. Schedule a consultation with an estate planning attorney. At Shoup Legal, we specialize in providing personalized advice tailored to the unique needs of teachers, parents, and all professionals and individuals. Consider a trust. Trusts can offer more control over how your assets are distributed and can help you avoid the probate process. They can be particularly beneficial if you have specific wishes about how and when your assets should be distributed. Plan for the unknown. Estate planning isn’t just about managing your affairs after your death. Consider establishing powers of attorney and health care directives to ensure decisions can be made on your behalf if you are incapacitated. Review beneficiary designations. Things change! Double-check the beneficiary designations on your accounts and life insurance policies. These designations often take precedence over the wishes outlined in a will. Take advantage of the summer months to set these important plans in motion. Remember: At Shoup Legal, we are here to help every step of the way so your focus can remain on what you do best — whether that’s in a classroom, office, or your home filled with kids!
TAKE A BREAK
e of mind tomorrow.
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Plan today for peace of mind tomorrow. 39755 Date St., Ste. 203 | Murrieta, CA 92563 (951) 445-4114 | www.shouplegal.com
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1 | Keeping the Spirit of Summer Alive 2 | Tips for Affordable Grocery Shopping 2 | Perfect Spots for a Laid-Back Holiday 3 | Comprehensive Summer Estate Planning Tips Inside This Issue
3 | Delightful Banana Bread 4 | 3 Easy Father’s Day Ideas
CHILDREN CREATE UNIQUE DAD’S DAY GIFTS IT’S FATHER’S DAY! Recently, people have been spending big on Father’s Day, and many wait until the very last minute. Last year, Americans spent a record $22.9 billion on Father’s Day, up nearly 10% from the previous year, according to an industry survey. And more than half of consumers don’t start shopping until the week before Father’s Day, while 3.5% wait until the very last day before the holiday, according to another survey.
answers on notecards. Things like, “How old do you think Daddy is? 100? What is one thing Daddy says? What does Daddy do for work? Why do you love Daddy?” The simplicity and innocence of your children’s answers will warm Dad’s heart more than any store-bought gift ever could. Shopping Spree Give each child $10 to pick out something for Dad, all by themselves, then take them to the nearest big- box store. Walker’s youngsters came up with a mirror, a pair of swim trunks, and crib sheets, and they clearly loved being empowered to make choices. Photos From a Kid’s Perspective You may be surprised at some of the angles children choose and the tender moments they capture, “even if they’re not wow-worthy,” Walker says. Her daughter caught a captivating shot of her husband, Ross, napping with their preschool son resting on his shoulder.
The second survey also revealed that over 75% of shoppers struggle to think of good Father’s Day ideas. Most settle on outings, clothing, gift cards, personal care items, or electronics. Here are three low-budget ideas you can do with your kids that are sure to charm any dad, offered by What’s Up Moms, a top parenting site on YouTube co- founded by vlogger Elle Walker. Interview Cards If your kids are preschoolers, have them answer questions about their father and record their
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