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Peace of Mind Post February 2025 Kiss Your Horse, Hug Your Family, Plan Your Estate Love in Action
Valentine’s Day has the potential to spark mixed feelings. Sure, we celebrate love, but why should love be confined to just one day or even to just romantic relationships? Shouldn’t we be showing kindness, care, and love to the people (and animals) we care about every day? This broader definition of love leads me to something I’m passionate about — protecting what you love. After all, isn’t that what estate planning is really all about? Whether it’s your spouse, your children, your home, farm, or possessions, you create an estate plan to protect the people and things you love most.
When people hear “estate planning,” they often think about legal documents or dividing assets, but when it comes down to it, estate planning is an act of love. It’s about ensuring the people and things you hold closest are cared for, no matter what. It’s about ensuring your family doesn’t have to navigate stressful decisions during difficult times and that your legacy reflects what matters most to you. For example, if you’ve poured your heart and soul into a family farm or business, estate planning can ensure it stays within the family or is handled according to your wishes. Keep in mind that if you care for animals and pets, an estate plan can help with that, too. Speaking of pets — if you know me, you know I love my animals. I adore my horses, especially one of my younger ones, The Dude. Yes, he’s named after “The Big Lebowski,” and yes, I kiss him on the nose every chance I get. Some might call me crazy, but that’s how I show my love. Whether it’s a family member, a favorite pet, or even a cherished collection of memorabilia, love is in the details. Estate planning lets you decide how your assets are distributed, who cares for your children or pets, and how your wishes are honored. It’s a way to show your loved ones you’re thinking of them and taking steps to make their lives easier and more secure. And, let’s not forget: estate planning isn’t only for the elderly. Whether you’re 25, 45, or 75, it’s never too early to start. Life has a funny way of throwing curveballs, and having a plan in place is one of the greatest gifts you can give to those you care about. Instead of only chocolates and fancy dinners, Valentine’s Day should remind us of the everyday acts of love we can practice — being kind to each other, listening to a friend, or simply being present for those who matter most. Estate planning is an extension of that same philosophy. It’s about taking action to protect and care for the people and things you love, not just on one special day but throughout your life. So, this Valentine’s Day, while you’re celebrating love in all its forms, consider taking a step toward creating or updating your estate plan. Because love isn’t just about what you say or do — it’s about the legacy you leave behind.
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The Red Flags of C
When to Take a Step Back
Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia is draining, but it’s also selfless and rewarding. Many caregivers dedicate their time, energy, and heart to caring for a loved one, often at the expense of their own needs. Over time, this can lead to caregiver stress — a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion that, if left unchecked, can impact both you and the person you’re caring for. Recognizing the signs of caregiver stress is the first step toward protecting your well-being. Here are six red flags to watch for. Feeling Overwhelmed or Constantly Anxious Do you feel like your to-do list is never-ending? Are you constantly worried about your loved one’s care or your ability to manage everything? Constant feelings of anxiety or being “on edge” may mean you’re carrying too much. Changes in Sleep Patterns If you find it tough to fall asleep, stay asleep, or feel constantly fatigued, disruptions in your sleep routine are a sign of stress. Poor sleep can make caregiving tasks feel even more daunting. Noticeable Physical Symptoms Stress affects more than just your mind; it can also affect your body. Frequent headaches, stomach issues, or a weakened immune system might mean your body is waving a red flag for help.
Cats are known for many things: their independence, impeccable balancing skills, and endless fascination with shoelaces. However, who would have guessed that our beloved feline friends have an innate GPS built into their brains? This furry tale of two kitties all started when a California couple, Benny and Susanne Anguiano, decided to take their two cats, Rayne Beau and Starr Jasmyn, on their first trip to Yellowstone National Park. The couple says this wasn’t the cats’ first rodeo. In fact, they loved looking out the big windows of the RV at the different wildlife. However, their epic park adventure turned into a nightmare on this particular trip. Shortly after arriving at Yellowstone, something startled Rayne Beau, and he ran into the forest. The couple searched for him for four days, leaving out some of his favorite treats and toys to lure him back to them. Unfortunately, Benny and Susanne’s efforts were short-lived, and they had to return home to Salinas, California. Susanne never lost hope and recalls a moment during their trek home when she saw a double rainbow in the sky. “That’s a sign for our Rayne Beau that he’s going to be okay,” she said. The Anguianos finally got the call they had been waiting for about two months after their Yellowstone trip. Their microchip enrollment company called and said Rayne Beau had been found and turned in to the Placer SPCA in Roseville, California (over 800 miles from Yellowstone and 200 miles from their home)! The next day, Benny and Susanne drove to Roseville to pick up Rayne Beau. Upon arrival, they discovered he had lost 6 pounds, had minor paw injuries, and was malnourished. While seeing their beloved fur baby in such a condition wasn’t easy, the Anguianos made it a point to fit their cats with AirTags and Rayne Beau with a GPS tracker. Rayne Beau’s ability to find his way back home remains a mystery. However, it proves that love (and feline internal GPS) can overcome any obstacle, no matter the distance. A Determined Feline Finds His Way Home No Matter the Distance LOST BUT NOT FORGOTTEN
Puzzle Time!
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Caregiver Burnout
Small Gestures, Big Smiles Let’s face it — the world could always use more kindness, and there’s no better time to start than on Random Acts of Kindness Day on Feb. 17! This special day celebrates the power of small, thoughtful gestures to make someone’s day a little brighter. From long lines at the coffee shop to bumper-to-bumper traffic, we’ve all experienced moments where a tiny act of thoughtfulness could turn our day around. Kindness doesn’t have to be a huge gesture or price tag. It’s often the little things that make the largest impacts. Think about the last time someone gave you an unexpected compliment or held the door open when your arms were full. It probably brought a smile to your face, right? A small hint of kindness may inspire others to pay it forward, too! So, how can you celebrate Random Acts of Kindness Day? Here are five simple and meaningful ways to spread a little love. Pay It Forward: Next time you visit your favorite coffee shop, pay for the person behind you. It’s a small gesture that can make someone’s morning. Hold the Door: Holding the door for someone, whether it’s a coworker, a stranger, or the delivery person, is an easy way to go the extra mile. Offer a Compliment: Tell someone you like their shoes, admire their haircut, or think their smile brightens the room. Compliments cost nothing but can mean everything. Send a Thank-You Note: Surprise someone with a handwritten note of appreciation. A personal note feels extra special in a world dominated by emails and texts. Leave a Positive Review: Do you love the service at your local restaurant? Do you think your hairstylist is a magician? Leave a glowing review to boost their day (and their business). Random Acts of Kindness Day is a reminder that no act of kindness is ever too small. The beauty of this day is that anyone can participate, and the effects can be immediate. So, let’s take Feb. 17 as a challenge to sprinkle a little kindness everywhere we go. After all, kindness isn’t just good for others — it makes us feel pretty amazing, too.
Irritability or Mood Swings Do you find yourself being extra emotional or snapping at others? These mood changes are common when you’re stretched too thin. Neglecting Your Own Needs Caregivers tend to put themselves last and may skip meals, ignore their health, or give up hobbies. If this sounds familiar, it may be time to reassess your priorities. Feeling Isolated Do you feel like you’re the only one taking on the responsibility? Isolation is a common feeling and can cause a ton of stress. What You Can Do Recognizing these signs is key, but taking action is just as important. Reach out to friends, family, or support groups for help.
You may even consider other care services to give yourself a well-deserved break. Remember, taking care of yourself isn’t selfish — it’s necessary.
Fabulous Flourless Chocolate Cake Inspired by EasyDessertRecipes.com
Ingredients
• 1 cup chopped dark chocolate • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted • 3/4 cup granulated sugar • 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts • 4 large eggs, separated • 2 tbsp cocoa powder
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 350 F and grease a springform pan with butter or nonstick spray. 2. Place chocolate in a medium bowl. Pour warm, melted butter over it, wait for 2 minutes, then stir until chocolate is melted and smooth. 3. Add sugar, almond flour, and walnuts and stir to incorporate. Stir in the egg yolks and set mixture aside. 4. In the bowl of a standing mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, whip egg whites on medium until stiff peaks form. 5. Fold 1/4 of the whipped egg whites into the chocolate batter. Repeat, 1/4 at a time, until egg whites are incorporated. 6. Pour batter into springform pan and bake for 30–35 minutes. 7. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely before removing from the pan. Dust with cocoa powder before serving.
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Estate Planning Is the Best Love Letter You Can Write
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A Cat’s Pilgrimage From Yellowstone to California Juggling Caregiving and Self-Care Brighten the World, One Act at a Time Fabulous Flourless Chocolate Cake
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Sniff Back in Time
Nostalgia in the Air Have you ever caught a whiff of freshly baked cookies and suddenly found yourself back in grandma’s kitchen? Our sense of smell has a knack for transporting us back in time, thanks to a bank of 50,000 different scents tied to our memories. This little olfactory time machine plays a significant role in our daily lives, taking smells and turning them into emotional snapshots. Get ready to stop and smell the roses because we’re diving nose-first into the power of our nostrils. Scent-sational Memories mind tells you it’s a cookie and reminds you of the warmth and love you felt as your grandma baked when you were a child. Our nose also protects us by helping us remember smells associated with danger, like fire. Whiff a Mood Lift Scents also impact our moods and feelings. Certain fragrances, like lavender, can make us feel relaxed; others, like fresh citrus, may trigger a boost of energy. The nose and limbic system work closely together. Certain scents activate the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine or serotonin and activate emotions such as happiness. How Familiar Scents Bring Back Memories
The olfactory bulb processes scents at the front of our brain, the area that sends information out to the body. Odors go directly to the limbic system, the part of our brain that processes emotions and memories. When we smell something, our brains label it and remember our emotional response to it. So, when you smell those fresh cookies, your
So, the next time you feel nostalgic, light a candle with a scent that reminds you of home, and your nose will transport you down memory lane.
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