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MAY/JUNE 2026
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Before They Head to Campus THE ‘ADULTING’ CHECKLIST EVERY GRADUATE SHOULD COMPLETE Every spring, caps fly into the air, proud families gather for photos, and young adults step across a stage into the next chapter of their lives. What many families do not realize, however, is that graduation season also marks an important legal transition. Once a student turns 18, the law officially recognizes them as an adult. That change happens overnight, even though most of us know our grads are still “ baby ” adults (who are likely still stuck on our phone bills). However, from a legal standpoint, turning 18 means parents no longer automatically have the authority to step in or make decisions on behalf of their child if something unexpected happens. For many families, that realization is a surprise. This is where basic estate planning tools can make an enormous difference, especially for high school graduates heading off to college. One of the most useful documents for students is a power of attorney. With this in place, parents can help manage certain financial or administrative matters if their student needs assistance. For college-bound students, we often include specific language that allows parents to communicate with the school if necessary. Without that permission, universities are often unable to speak with parents about student issues because of federal privacy rules. I have seen situations where parents called a college simply trying to help resolve a problem, perhaps a billing question or even a disciplinary issue, only to be told the school could not discuss anything with them. A comprehensive power of attorney is a small provision that can remove a surprisingly large obstacle. Health care documents are just as important for young adults. Once someone turns 18, medical providers must treat them as the sole decision- maker for their health care information. That can make communication difficult for families if a student ends up in the hospital and parents are trying to understand what is happening.
We often prepare health care authorizations that allow parents to stay informed during hospital stays. In most cases, young adults want their parents involved if something serious occurs; it simply requires the proper documentation to make those conversations possible. Then there is the next stage of life: college graduation. At that point, estate planning often shifts from basic authorizations to more traditional planning tools. My daughter is graduating from college this year, so this topic is very much on my mind. For many recent graduates, a simple will is a logical starting point. It does not need to be complex. Often, it directs assets back to parents or other family members. In some cases, graduates also want to recognize the organizations that shaped their college experience, perhaps a scholarship fund, their university, or even a fraternity or sorority that meant a lot to them. What I have found over the years is that these conversations do not have to feel intimidating or overly formal. In fact, they can be incredibly empowering for young adults. Estate planning becomes less about legal documents and more about helping someone take their first real steps into adulthood with confidence. For those of us who serve families as trusted advisors, graduation season offers a natural opportunity to start these discussions. If you have clients, friends, or family members celebrating a graduate this year, it may be the perfect time to raise the topic. Our team is always happy to guide families through the process. Helping young adults get these pieces in place is a simple step that can provide lasting peace of mind for them and for the people who care about them most. – Scott Linneweber 317-726-1714 1
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WHAT COMES AFTER THE CAREER? Creating a Life You Love in Retirement
FIND FUN WAYS TO FILL YOUR DAYS. Retirement opens the door to creativity, adventure, and lifelong learning, and there is so much to get into! Some people explore artistic hobbies like painting or photography, while others join choirs, walking groups, or dance classes to stay social. Outdoor activities such as visiting parks, kayaking, or taking local road trips add excitement and movement. Many retirees also enjoy taking courses, learning new skills, or diving into subjects they never had time to study before. EXPLORE HOBBIES, PURPOSE, AND POSSIBILITIES. The right hobby can keep the mind sharp, the body active, and the spirit engaged. From gardening and bird-watching to genealogy, music, or volunteering, meaningful pastimes transform free time into something deeply satisfying. Some retirees even choose flexible part-time work or creative side projects that provide social connection and a renewed sense of purpose. Ultimately, retirement is all about choosing how you want to live. Quiet days, bold adventures, creative projects, or community involvement can all coexist in this new chapter. With curiosity and openness, retirement becomes less about passing time and more about creating a life rich with joy, discovery, and personal meaning.
Retirement is often pictured as a permanent vacation with slow mornings, no deadlines, and complete freedom. But once the novelty fades, many retirees wonder what to do with all their free time. Feeling bored in retirement is surprisingly common, especially after decades of structured schedules and social interaction at work. The encouraging truth is that boredom can be an invitation to explore new passions, reconnect with old interests, and shape a lifestyle filled with meaning and enjoyment. START YOUR DAY WITH PURPOSE. One of the easiest ways to regain youthful energy is by creating a daily routine. A thoughtful morning that includes a walk, a cup of coffee, or a few minutes of journaling can set a positive tone for everything that follows. Gentle structure helps replace the rhythm once provided by work and makes each day feel intentional rather than repetitive. EMBRACE THE TRANSITION. Moving into retirement is not just a schedule change; it is an identity shift. Work often provides community, purpose, and routine, so it is natural to feel uncertain at first. Giving yourself time to rest, experimenting with new activities, and staying socially connected can make the adjustment smoother. Over time, habits and meaningful connections form a new, fulfilling rhythm.
WHY THE ‘OLDEST CHILD’ IS NOT ALWAYS THE BEST ANSWER Who Should Be Your Executor or Trustee?
WHAT MAKES SOMEONE A GOOD FIT? When helping clients evaluate potential candidates, we often encourage them to think through a few practical considerations. 1. The role requires commitment . Estate administration can be a long process, and the person selected should be willing to stay engaged until the work is completed. 2. The individual should be trustworthy and responsible with financial matters. Executors and trustees often have access to accounts and assets, so financial integrity is essential. 3. Organization and communication skills are also key. The person will likely interact with attorneys, financial institutions, and family members. The ability to stay organized and communicate clearly can make the entire process smoother for everyone involved. 4. Perhaps most importantly, the person should want the role . Not everyone is comfortable navigating legal processes or making decisions while grieving. START THE CONVERSATION For many families, choosing an executor or trustee is not something they have discussed openly. As trusted advisors, we often play an important role in helping clients start that conversation. Thoughtful planning now can make a significant difference for families later, and selecting the right individuals to carry out those responsibilities is one of the most important steps in the process.
When clients begin thinking about who should serve as their executor or trustee, the conversation often starts with a familiar assumption: the oldest child should handle it. Sometimes, the reasoning is simply proximity, as “they live closest.” But as many of us know, convenience and tradition do not always equal capability. Serving as an executor or trustee is a significant responsibility. The person in that role may be managing finances, coordinating with attorneys and financial institutions, and communicating with beneficiaries. That is why one of the most important pieces of guidance we give clients is simple: Choose the person who is best suited for the job, not the person who seems like the obvious choice. MATCH THE PERSON TO THE ROLE Another important point that often surprises clients is that these responsibilities do not all have to fall on the same person. Financial decisions and health care decisions are two very different roles, and they often require very different strengths. Someone who is excellent at handling money and long-term planning may not necessarily be the person who feels comfortable making sensitive medical decisions. Likewise, the person who provides calm, thoughtful guidance during health care situations may not be the one who wants to manage financial paperwork. Encouraging clients to think about skill sets rather than family hierarchy often leads to much stronger planning decisions.
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Word Search
The Secret Grandparent Superpower?
BLOOM CINCO COMIC DERBY EMERALD GEMINI GRADUATION LILY MEMORIAL
WORDS. YES, JUST WORDS.
MOTHER RENEWAL VETERANS
Children thrive when they are in positive environments surrounded by loved ones who offer uplifting, kind words of compassion and affirmation.
Unfortunately, many kids do not get this experience. They become another face in the crowd at school, only hear directions or challenges from parents and siblings, and can face ridicule and resentment from friends when sharing something they are passionate about or proud of. As grandparents, you have a unique opportunity to be a shining light in your grandchildren’s lives. For many grandparents, bonding with their grandchildren is not always easy, especially as their grandchildren grow older and reach their teen years. They may act indifferent, spend all their time with their faces buried in their phones, and use terminology that makes absolutely no sense. Thankfully, you don’t have to infiltrate their friend group or start playing video games online to make a greater connection. All you need to do is share a few words of affirmation to show them you care and love them for who they are. These affirmations often look different from family to family. You likely already have an idea of what words will make your grandchild beam with pride and joy, but it is always good to have a few extra phrases in your back pocket in case you do not know what to say and how to make them feel happy and loved. Here are some of our favorites: • “I am so proud of you.” It does not matter if they accomplished a long- term goal or achieved a small everyday victory; saying these words will validate your grandchild’s efforts. • “Tell me more about that.” Sometimes, the only thing our grandchildren need is someone who shows greater interest in something they are passionate about. • “I love spending time with you.” This is something kids do not hear enough, but it can be a game-changer for your relationship. • “Can you teach me to do that?” Children are used to being taught and told what to do, but flipping the script is a great way to learn about their interests and build their confidence.
INGREDIENTS
• 4 skinless salmon fillets • 2 tsp kosher salt • 1 tsp ground black pepper • 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil • 2 garlic cloves, minced • 1/2 cup thinly sliced shallots • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard • 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1 cup unsweetened, full-fat coconut milk
• Zest of 1/2 lemon • 1 tbsp lemon juice • 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives • 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill • 2 tbsp chopped fresh tarragon
1. Pat salmon dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt and pepper. 2. In large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. 3. Add salmon and cook 2–3 minutes. Flip and cook another 2–3 minutes. Remove from skillet. 4. To make the sauce, reduce heat to medium and add garlic and shallots. 5. Sauté for 1 minute, then add Dijon mustard and white wine. Whisk and cook for about 2 minutes. 6. Add coconut milk and simmer on medium-low heat. 7. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, chives, dill, and tarragon. 8. Add salmon to sauce and cook, uncovered, 3–5 minutes. DIRECTIONS
Kind words are at the foundation of every strong relationship. The best way to make sure your grandchildren know how much they mean to you is to tell them!
Inspired by TheDefinedDish.com
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INSIDE THIS ISSUE 1.
Caps, Gowns … and Power of Attorney? What Graduates Really Need When Retirement Gets Quiet, Make Life Feel Full Again How to Choose the Right Executor or Trustee The Magic Words Your Grandkids Secretly Want to Hear Creamy Spring Salmon Get Creative and Plan Beyond the Bank Account
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May 30 is National Creativity Day, and what better way to honor it than by reminding clients that estate planning is not just about numbers? While wills and trusts cover bank accounts, retirement funds, and other financial assets, there are assets equally important to families and loved ones. From cherished heirlooms and journals to photographs and art, these items tell stories and hold memories that money cannot replace. Ignoring them can unintentionally spark disputes among loved ones, but a little planning can preserve both the items and the stories behind them. EASILY ORGANIZE AND ENTRUST HEIRLOOMS This is where tools like Inheralink ® come in. When using its Personal Property Memorandum , clients can easily log and assign specific items to designated beneficiaries. Want to make sure that your grandmother’s necklace goes to your niece, or that your personal journals end up with a particular family member who will treasure them? Inheralink allows clients to take photos of these items, add notes or stories, and specify exactly who should receive each item. It is a structured, stress-free way to make intentions crystal clear and to minimize arguments when the time comes. CAPTURE AND PRESERVE MEMORIES ALONG THE WAY The real beauty of this approach is not just organization, but also storytelling. Every item can carry a message: why it is meaningful, the memories attached, or even guidance for how it should be used or cherished. When you capture these personal touches, clients are not just leaving a list of items; they are leaving a legacy, a way for family members to feel connected to loved ones long after they are gone. MAKE PLANNING PERSONAL For your clients, National Creativity Day is the perfect moment to think beyond financial planning and include the sentimental details that matter. Connect with our team so you or someone you know can start exploring tools like Inheralink to inventory and assign personal property thoughtfully. By doing so, they not only protect their family relationships but also ensure the stories and memories that matter most are preserved.
HEIRLOOMS, JOURNALS, AND MEMORIES
TURN SENTIMENTAL ITEMS INTO A
LEGACY, NOT A FAMILY FEUD
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