Caring Causes: Gibson Gives and TEMPO

 

“Gibson Gives and TEMPO are proud to partner with live music venues across Nashville to provide free access to life-saving Naloxone (Kloxxado®) for music fans in our city,” says Dendy Jarrett, Executive Director, Gibson Gives. “Following our announcement of Hikma’s $1 million dollar donation of Naloxone (Kloxxado®) to the TEMPO program in late 2022, the Tennessee Department of Health CDC Foundation Overdose Response Strategy in TN, and the Metro Police Department reached out to help create an impactful opioid overdose awareness campaign for the city of Nashville concentrating on the areas most affected. We thank them and ONEbox for helping us bring this life-saving program inside our live music venues, so that every music fan can safely enjoy their favorite artists across Music City, Nashville.”   "This partnership is exactly what we need. As a musician and fan, I know how vital it is that we get lifesaving Naloxone in proximity to the largest groups of people, as well as to known populations in danger. This endeavor accomplishes BOTH in a big way," says Joe Murphy, Founder and CEO, ONEbox.   “Drug overdoses caused by fentanyl are now the leading cause of death for Americans aged 18 to 45,” adds Dr. Susan Bissett, President of the Drug Intervention Institute, and Distributor of ONEbox™. “We are pleased that TEMPO understands the need for Naloxone training and access for populations most at-risk for overdose.”   The timing of this life-saving overdose reversal drug comes as musicians are touring again, and in-person concerts and festivals are in full swing after post-COVID shutdowns. Lethal overdoses from opioids and fentanyl are on the rise globally and have reached an all-time high in the U.S. (CDC, Drug Overdose Deaths in the U.S. Top 100,000 annually), awareness has never been more critical. These overdose deaths are preventable through the timely administration of Naloxone-a safe, effective, and easy to administer medication that reverses opioid overdoses and helps save lives.   The new TEMPO Nashville Live Music Venue program is currently being made available to 72+ well-known Nashville live music venues in the Lower Broadway, and Printer’s Ally areas, as well as many other legacy venues in the Nashville metro area, with more to be added.

Freebies!

 Watercolor Card at Michael's stores 2-4pm 1/29

Generation Now - An Interview with Peter Brosius

 Earlier this month I posted about the Generation Now Partnership.

Generation Now brings together five nationally ranked theaters to commission and develop new works for multigenerational audiences by both established and emerging BIPOC artists. The commissions include Ifa Bayeza’s One Small Alice, Michi Barall’s Drawing Lessons, Dustin Tahmahkera’s Comanche Girl on the Moon, and a work exploring the world of folklórico dance created by Latino Theater Company. All commissions will receive at least two developmental workshops at the co-commissioning theatres.

 

I had a chance to interview CTC's longtime Artistic Director Peter C. Brosius to learn more.

1. What led to the Generation Now partnership?
   
   The desire to create new work from BIPOC artists for multi generational audiences was the driver. There is a scarcity of high quality work in this area and it is important for audiences to see themselves, to see each other and to offer artists the opportunities to tell their stories. It is important that young people learn from each other, understand each other, get to know each other and the theatre is an extraordinary vehicle for that. We live in a truly global society and the more that young people see both the uniqueness and differences between us and the commonalities and concerns we all share the more adept, curious and empathetic global citizens they will become

2. Why is it important to create works for multigenerational audiences?
   
   There is no more important audience in the world. This is an audience that is going to remember this work for the rest of their lives. This will be work that can open their eyes, their hearts and help them find the moral rudder that will guide them in life. We want the theatre to reflect the glorious diversity of this community, this nation and this planet. We want our audiences to experience a wide variety of aesthetics, narratives and insights. We want artists to see this field as a place where they can make their best work, work that challenges, excites, surprises, teaches and delights.

3. How did the theaters decide what types of play to commission? Did the theaters choose the topic/title or did the artists?
   
   Every theatre is different. What we do here is start with artists that excite us, whose work is extraordinary, theatrical, inventive, generous in sprit and dynamic theatre. We then have conversations about potential projects. Sometimes we have an idea, a book,a story,  a film, a set of songs, an issue, a challenge in our community. They may bring ideas that matter to them, from their own lives, that of their families or members of their community or something that has fascinated them for years that they are eager to explore. In our theatre, the commission is most often a result of that conversation as we want to create something that excites both of us, the theatre and the artist and something that we are eager and looking forward to producing. We only commission projects that we want and plan to produce.

4. What excites you the most about this partnership?
   
   What excites me is the opportunity to work closely with these incredible leaders and their remarkable theaters. These are national leaders, profound thinkers and artists who have truly moved the theatre field forward. They ask deep and probing questions, they seek new ways of supporting artists and supporting the communities they serve. They create work that is powerful, inventive theatre. I love the conversations we have, I love the collaboration and I love the process of learning from them as we work with artists to see how they work, how they support the artists and how they involve their communities . It is both an incredible learning opportunity, a unique way to partner  and a way to create some truly exciting new theatre work.

Movie Minute: Pure Flix February 2023

Pure Flix is a one-stop shop for faith and family-friendly movies and shows where you can confidently stream in your home with the entire family. With new premium and exclusive original entertainment choices every week, Pure Flix streaming service has the largest variety of high-quality, curated, positive, encouraging, wholesome movies, series and kids' content in one service. Pure Flix is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sony Pictures Entertainment, drawing on Sony's world-class technology and partnering with the storytelling strength of AFFIRM Films.

While many streaming services provide family content mixed with adult content, Pure Flix only provides quality content that’s safe and clean for the whole family. Pure Flix has the largest variety of curated, high-quality, wholesome movies, series and kids’ content available in one place.

Pure Flix Originals & Exclusive Titles
Heaven Sent – available February 3!
Elise, a grandmother hurt by her past, and Patrick, a widowed pastor, have closed the door on love. But with faith and a little help from technology, will their live-streamed romance find a way?

SONY & Affirm Titles
Karen Kingsbury’s A Thousand Tomorrows – coming in February!

Paul, Apostle of Christ – available February 1!
Paul, who goes from the most infamous persecutor of Christians to Christ’s most influential apostle, spends his last days awaiting execution by Emperor Nero in Rome. Paul is under the watchful eye of Mauritius, Mamertine Prison’s ambitious prefect, who seeks to understand how this broken old man can pose such a threat.

Pure Flix New Exclusive Titles
Cream of the Crop – available now!
A feisty young woman, dedicated to saving her family farm, and a driven real estate tycoon fall in love, but things get complicated when his company assigns him to foreclose on her family's farm.

Snapshot of Love – available February 1!
Adrian is a Hollywood paparazzi assigned to get photos of a very elusive star, Parker Bennett. Little does she know, she'll get her chance when they both end up at the same BNB in the mountains of NC.

Priceless – available February 1!
A widower who's lost custody of his daughter finds himself unable to hold down a job. He agrees to drive a truck cross-country, no questions asked, but when he discovers the nature of his cargo, he is faced with a life-changing decision.

No Vacancy – available now!
A suspenseful and faith-filled story of one Child Protective Service agent on a mission to use her God-given gifts to help children in danger.

Journey of Faith – series documentary available now!
Inspired by the Red Paperclip trade, together, Corbin Bernsen, a film crew, and the town of Kipling, make a movie during a frigid winter, and little did they know the miracles that would transpire.

TV Time - AppleTV+ Winter/Spring 2023 Lineup

 Apple today announced the stellar spring lineup of all-new original series, specials and returning fan favorites for kids and families. 

New and returning original series and specials for kids and families premiering globally on Apple TV+ include (in air order):

“Pinecone & Pony” - Season Two - Premieres Friday, February 3, 2023

Based on the book “The Princess and the Pony” by New York Times bestselling author Kate Beaton and hailing from DreamWorks Animation, season Two of “Pinecone & Pony” is an eight-episode animated comedy for kids and families about a young warrior-in-training, Pinecone, and her best friend Pony, whose adventures together teach them how to be brave in the face of adversity, to speak truth to power, and what it truly means to be a hero. 

Peanuts Classics Special “A Charlie Brown Valentine” - Premieres Friday, February 9, 2023

From Mendelson/Melendez Productions and Peanuts Worldwide, watch as warm and fuzzy feelings fill the air and an inspired Snoopy writes poems about Valentine’s Day. Charlie Brown tries to impress the Little Red-Haired Girl. Sally and Lucy hope to get cards from their crushes. Peppermint Patty asks “Chuck” to the dance. 

“Pretzel and the Puppies” - Season Two - Premieres Friday, February 24, 2023

Meet Pretzel, the world’s longest dachshund and a playful, supportive dad to five frisky puppies. Together with his wife, Greta, they encourage their pups to get their paws up to solve problems and “make their bark” on the world.

"Stillwater" - New Shorts - Premiere Wednesday, March 15, 2023

Prior to the launch of the enchanting new season of “Stillwater,” based on the award-winning and bestselling Scholastic book Zen Shorts by Jon J Muth, Apple TV+ will premiere three all-new shorts on platform and made available for non-subscribers on Scholastic’s YouTube. Just in time for International Panda Day, follow Jasper the cat in “Jasper’s Journey” on a mindful journey through Stillwater’s garden, join Stillwater in “Making Waves” as he makes new patterns in his Zen garden, and watch Karl join Stillwater in “Breathing” to learn how breathing can help make him feel better when he has angry feelings. The shorts are produced by Gaumont and Scholastic Entertainment, and executive produced by Sidonie Dumas, Christophe Riandee, Nicolas Atlan, Terry Kalagian, Iole Lucchese, Caitlin Friedman, Jef Kaminsky and Rob Hoegee.

“Eva the Owlet” - New Series - Premieres Friday, March 31, 2023

The new animated kids and family series is based on the New York Times bestselling Scholastic book series “Owl Diaries” by award-winning author Rebecca Elliott. “Eva the Owlet” stars Eva, a creative, cheeky owlet who lives next door to her best friend Lucy in the woodland world of Treetopington. With big ideas and an even bigger personality, Eva goes on high-flying adventures, expressing herself in her journal along the way!

The late Dr. John F. Evans, a writing clinician, National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach at Duke Integrative Medicine, and the Founder and Executive Director of Wellness & Writing Connections, LLC served as the expressive writing expert on the series through Apple TV+’s Changemakers initiative. The series was one of the last significant projects he worked on, hoping to inspire young viewers to write, to find their voices, and to believe in themselves. 

"Jane" - New Series - Premieres Friday, April 14, 2023

“Jane” is a new 10-episode mission-driven series for kids and families inspired by the work of Dr. Jane Goodall. From Emmy Award winner J.J. Johnson (“Ghostwriter” “Dino Dana”), Sinking Ship Entertainment and the Jane Goodall Institute, “Jane” premieres globally on Friday, April 14. 

Ava Louise Murchison (“Reacher”) stars as Jane Garcia, a nine-year-old budding environmentalist on a quest to save endangered animals. Using her powerful imagination, Jane takes her best friends David, played by Mason Blomberg (“Shameless”), and Greybeard the chimpanzee on epic adventures to help protect wild animals all around the world because, according to her idol Dr. Jane Goodall: “Only if we understand, will we care. Only if we care, will we help. Only if we help, can they be saved.”

“Sago Mini Friends” Earth Day Special - New Special - Premieres Friday, April 14, 2023

In “Treasure It,” an old lunch box finds new life when Harvey transforms it into a treasure box full of unique items for his friends. Produced by Spin Master Entertainment, animated by 9 Story Media Group’s Brown Bag Films — Toronto, and based on the award-winning Sago Mini World app, developed by Sago Mini, the “Sago Mini Friends” series is an adorable nod to gratitude, featuring Harvey the floppy-eared dog and his best friends, Jinja the cat, Jack the rabbit and Robin the bird. Along with a unique cast of residents as colorful as their own whimsical world, the four friends play, explore, imagine and celebrate daily in their joyful town of Sagoville. In each episode, Harvey and all his friends express their true thankfulness for all things big and small, through optimism, kindness, preschool-friendly humor and unforgettable original songs! The animated preschool series is executive produced by Jennifer Dodge, Ronnen Harary, Tone Thyne, Dustin Ferrer, Laura Clunie and Toni Stevens, with Chad Hicks as series director. Dr. Sonja Lyubomirsky, Distinguished Professor of Psychology at the University of California, Riverside and expert in the science of happiness, serves as the gratitude expert on the series through Apple TV+’s Changemakers initiative.

"Frog and Toad" - New Series - Premieres Friday, April 28, 2023

Frog is a frog. Toad is a toad. They have a lot in common… but they are also very different. Frog and Toad are best friends who know that the true secret to friendship is not only enjoying the things you have in common, but embracing the things that make you different. Our differences are what makes us special, and Frog and Toad celebrate them in what makes them unique. 

Peanuts Anthology III - New to Apple TV+ - May 5, 2023

Fans of the beloved Peanuts gang will have more classics available to watch from Mendelson/Melendez Productions and Peanuts Worldwide in the Peanuts Classics collection on Apple TV+, including “It's an Adventure, Charlie Brown,” “It's Spring Training, Charlie Brown,” Emmy Award winner “Life is a Circus, Charlie Brown,” “Lucy Must Be Traded, Charlie Brown,” Emmy Award nominated “Play it Again, Charlie Brown,” Emmy Award nominated “Snoopy's Getting Married, Charlie Brown” and Emmy Award winner “You're a Good Sport, Charlie Brown.” 

"Harriet the Spy" - Season Two - Premieres Friday, May 5, 2023

Tune in for season two of “Harriet the Spy,” based on the iconic children’s novel chronicling the coming-of-age adventures of the irrepressible Harriet M. Welsch! Produced by The Jim Henson Company, the animated series stars acclaimed actor Beanie Feldstein ("Lady Bird," “Booksmart”) as Harriet, a fiercely independent and adventurous 11-year-old girl, alongside Emmy Award winner Jane Lynch (“The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel") as Ole Golly, Harriet’s larger-than-life, no-nonsense nanny. 

Set in 1960s New York when the original book was published, “Harriet the Spy” follows the outspoken and perpetually curious 11-year-old Harriet M. Welsch. More than anything, Harriet wants to be a writer, and in order to be a good writer, she’ll need to know everything. And to know everything means she’ll need to spy … on everyone! This season, follow Harriet as she navigates letting go, growing up, and celebrating the gift of today. 

"Stillwater" - Season Three - Premieres Friday, May 19, 2023

Peabody and Daytime Emmy Award-winning series, “Stillwater,” centers on siblings Karl, Addy and Michael, who encounter everyday challenges — big and small — which sometimes feel insurmountable. Fortunately for these three, they have Stillwater, a wise panda, as their next-door neighbor. Through his example, stories and gentle humor, Stillwater gives the children a deeper understanding of their feelings as well as tools that help them face their own day-to-day challenges.

“Stillwater” is based on the award-winning and bestselling Scholastic book Zen Shorts by Jon J Muth and is produced by Gaumont and Scholastic Entertainment. The series is executive produced by Sidonie Dumas, Christophe Riandee, Nicolas Atlan, Terry Kalagian, Iole Lucchese, Caitlin Friedman, Jef Kaminsky, Jun Falkenstein, and Rob Hoegee, and features the voice talents of James Sie, Eva Binder, Tucker Chandler and Judah Mackey.

Peabody and Daytime Emmy Award-winning series “Stillwater” was developed for television in collaboration with awareness and intention expert Mallika Chopra, author of Buddha and The Rose and and the Just Be Series for kids, and CEO of Chopra Global, through Apple TV+’s Changemakers initiative.

The “Stillwater” team partnered with Chopra to imagine and deliver a series that teaches children how to be more mindful and meditative, and how to slow down to make thoughtful, empathetic decisions. Since its debut, the series has been globally praised and recognized with awards for its positive impact on kids' families around the world.

The award-winning slate of original series and film for kids and families on Apple TV+ includes impressive all-ages offerings such as the critically-acclaimed properties BAFTA Award-winning “El Deafo,” “Lovely Little Farm,” “Duck & Goose,” “Pinecone & Pony,” Emmy Award-winning “Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock” and “Harriet the Spy” from The Jim Henson Company, Peabody and Emmy Award-winning series “Stillwater,” “Helpsters” from Sesame Workshop, “Wolfboy and the Everything Factory” from Joseph Gordon-Levitt, HITRECORD and Bento Box Entertainment, “Sago Mini Friends,” “Hello, Jack! The Kindness Show” from Jack McBrayer and Angela C. Santomero, “Snoopy in Space,” “The Snoopy Show” and “Get Rolling with Otis.” Live-action offerings include Bonnie Hunt’s “Amber Brown,” "Best Foot Forward," “Surfside Girls,” “Life By Ella,” Daytime Emmy Award-winning “Ghostwriter” from Sesame Workshop, and “Puppy Place.” 

 

Also included are specials from Peanuts and WildBrain including “It’s the Small Things, Charlie Brown,” “Lucy’s School,” “To Mom (and Dad), With Love,” Emmy Award-winning “Who Are You, Charlie Brown?” and “For Auld Lang Syne,” and “Here We Are: Notes for Living on Planet Earth,” the Daytime Emmy Award-winning television event based on the New York Times best-selling book and TIME Best Book of the Year by Oliver Jeffers.

 

The kids and family film offerings include star-studded animated adventure film “Luck” from Apple Original Films and Skydance Animation which premiered this year and Academy Award-nominated animated film “Wolfwalkers.”

 

Apple TV+ offers premium, compelling drama and comedy series, feature films, groundbreaking documentaries, and kids and family entertainment, and is available to watch across all your favorite screens. After its launch on November 1, 2019, Apple TV+ became the first all-original streaming service to launch around the world, and has premiered more original hits and received more award recognitions faster than any other streaming service in its debut. To date, Apple Original films, documentaries, and series have earned 309 wins and 1,324 award nominations and counting, including multi-Emmy Award-winning comedy “Ted Lasso” and Oscar Best Picture winner “CODA.”

 

Apple TV+ is available on the Apple TV app in over 100 countries and regions, on over 1 billion screens, including iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Mac, popular smart TVs from Samsung, LG, Sony, VIZIO, TCL, and others, Roku and Amazon Fire TV devices, Chromecast with Google TV, PlayStation and Xbox gaming consoles, and at tv.apple.com, for $6.99 per month with a seven-day free trial. For a limited time, customers who purchase and activate a new iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Mac, or iPod touch can enjoy three months of Apple TV+ for free.* For more information, visit apple.com/tvpr and see the full list of supported devices.

World Wisdom: Cinnamon Hearts Candle

 Brunette the Label and Mala the Brand launch their Cinnamon Hearts candle to compliment your Valentine's Day. The two Vancouver Canada based brands have teamed up for a signature candle inspired by the spicy candy for the holiday!

The Cinnamon Hearts candle is an eco-friendly coconut and soy wax candle with a wood wick to make even the most urban of spaces to feel like a winter escape. The two female-owned brands combined forces to spice up your holiday launching alongside Brunette the Label’s coveted Valentine’s Day collection.

The Brunette the Label x Mala the Brand Cinnamon Hearts candle is $40 and available at BrunettetheLabel.com 

Money Matters - Long-Term Renters

 Things are shaking up in the U.S. housing market. The running streak of 124 straight months of rising home prices has been put to rest by several straight months of declining home prices in the U.S.

But, with rent across the country remaining at an all-time high, it begs the question: What does the current economic and housing climate mean for renters? 

This report shows where Americans are staying locked in their leases and in a perpetual renting cycle. The top cities with the most long-term renters (people who moved in 22+ years ago) are:

1. New York (415,817 long-term renters)
2. Los Angeles (82,559 long-term renters)
3. Chicago (32,176 long-term renters)
4. San Francisco (25,803 long-term renters)
5. Philadelphia (14,511 long-term renters)

Why aren’t people buying? It varies person to person, but our nationwide survey found 71% of renters want to buy a home and the top deterrents include money, interest rates, and debt.

I had a chance to learn more in this interview.

Why do renters tend to stay in a city long-term?

 

There can be many reasons why a renter stays in a city for a long time including finances, location, career, or personal life. However, our survey found the majority of renters (71%) want to buy a home, but 90% say money is holding them back. Our survey also found other reasons behind why people choose to rent include interest rates, not wanting debt, and simply not wanting the responsibilities of owning.

 

What factors contribute to renters being unable to buy a home, even if they want to?

 

71% of renters say they want to buy a home. For 9 out of 10, money is what’s holding them back. Additionally, more than 1 in 3 (35%) say interest rates are contributing to their decision not to buy. When asked when they think they will buy a home, 30% of renters said in the next 5 years. For 1 in 10, it’s a long-term goal as they don’t plan on doing so for 10 or more years.

 

How can renters move towards home ownership?

 

There are many steps people can take while on the path to becoming homeowners. Since we know finances are the number one thing holding renters back from taking that step, it’s important to start saving. Being mindful of your expenses and figuring out your budget are two important things renters can do now to move them closer to becoming homeowners. 

Amazing Apps - Story Time International

Social purpose company, Hello Computer, Inc. started 2023 with one of their biggest milestones to date. A recently completed language upgrade to StoryTime, their signature, award-winning EdTech Mobile App which now translates stories into 137 languages, even reading the stories aloud to children using state of the art, AI neural speech synthesis technology.

After winning two EdTech awards for StoryTime in 2021, they just launched StoryTime International (STI), the perfect ESL (English as a Second Language) tool for children (and adults) who want to practice reading, writing and speaking English, as well as stories in their own mother tongue.

“Now, every child across the globe has the opportunity to read and HEAR stories in their native language, as well as English”, says Rossana Jeran, the company’s Co-Founder and CEO.



StoryTime was created by Co-Founder and Developer Christopher Taylor as a revolutionary digital tool to teach and inspire children all over the world to be passionate about reading with never-ending story content and App features that inspire literacy and imagination in a fun and educational way.

This unique, “edutainment” style App helps early readers read and is a wonderful resource helping parents and teachers offer endless, dynamic story content in a variety of contexts, including reading aloud to children.



StoryTime’s activity center encourages fun and imagination with activities such as Silly Sounds, Silly Sentences and Flash Cards. Features like Wordless Picture Book, Jokes, Educational Games and Puzzles, including Relaxing Quiet/Sleepy Time Sounds and Yoga make this App truly one of a kind. There is even a built-in piano that teaches children how to play simple nursery rhymes.

Tracing shapes, letters and numbers right on the mobile device allows preschool and Kindergarten age children to explore writing fundamentals from an early age. Most importantly, StoryTime strives to impart problem-solving skills, improve comprehension, augment vocabulary, promote reading and writing, inspire creativity, imagination and a love of language.



The StoryTime mobile app (English only) is available as a free download for Android devices from the Google Playstore at:
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.hellocomputer.storytime

StoryTime International is available at a download price of $2.99 and includes 137 languages to choose from. It is a fun and revolutionary way to explore different languages and hear stories aloud right from your Smartphone or tablet. STI can be downloaded here:
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.hellocomputer.storytimeint


StoryTime’s EdTech awards include a Go Global Top Placer Award from the International Trade Council in Washington, DC. and a Corporate Vision (UK) Education and Training Award for the “Most Unique Educational Children’s Mobile App”.

Going forward Hello Computer, Inc. will continue its mission for world literacy by forming strategic partnerships with schools, educational institutions and libraries, especially those in underserved communities and developing nations who are without internet access or in need of educational tools.

These programs may apply for a Free license to use StoryTime in their classrooms and programs on mobile devices. “We look forward to working with schools, programs and other strategic partners to bring literacy and imagination to children globally” says Jeran. “Literacy and imagination are human rights”.

About Hello Computer, Inc.: Hello Computer, Inc. is a social-purpose company and the creators of the StoryTime mobile app. Founded in 2020 and headed by CEO Rossana Jeran, its children’s Mobile App, StoryTime has been downloaded many times over and awarded internationally twice. Hello Computer, Inc. is passionate about creating Mobile Apps that blur the lines of education and entertainment.

Money Matters: Estate Planning For Your Childre

 We are so focused on building wealth over time, but, what if something happens to us? Are our children’s futures protected?

Estate planning is one of those things parents put off when it’s sometimes too late, and the consequences can be devastating.

Remember the story of Cinderella, the orphan mistreated by her evil stepmother and stepsisters? Consider an alternative ending: A legally happily ever after, which starts with an estate plan and ends with Cinderella keeping the house.

It’s not just about money. It’s all about protecting your children.

Pamela Maass Garrett is an estate planning attorney, CEO of Law Mother LLC, and the author of the international best-selling book Legally Ever After The 6-Step Plan to Protect Your Children's Happiness and Future.  She is dedicated to helping parents protect their children and assets while building their legacy.

 

I had a chance to learn more in this interview.

1. Why is it important for families to make plans for protecting their children's future?

It is important for families to make an estate plan for protecting their children's future because it ensures that their children are taken care of in case of an untimely death or disability. An estate plan can provide for the financial security of the children and can also provide guidance for how the children should be cared for. The estate plan can include a trust, guardianship and other protective measures to ensure that the children are provided for in the future. Estate planning also helps to avoid potential conflicts between family members or beneficiaries in the future.  In our Estate Planning in Colorado law firm we help families put an estate plan in place, so that parents can rest assured that their children will be taken care of in the event of their death or disability.

2. What are the six steps to get started in estate planning?

The six-step plan detailed in the book Legally Ever After, is a roadmap to protect your children’s future and happiness through L.E.G.A.C.Y:

L - Legal Guardians. Naming legal guardians for your children in the event both you and your children’s other parent pass away or become incapacitated is one of the most difficult decisions a parent must make, but it’s also one of the most important decisions. While the decision might be difficult, if you don’t appoint a guardian, it will be up to a judge, a stranger, to make that decision for you. The dangers of having the court make these decisions are the timeframe, cost, and ultimately losing the ability to choose who ends up caring for your children.

E - Economic Support. Provide for your family’s long term needs through setting up a Living Trust or a Will. 

G – Guidance. Express your wishes for your care of life and for the care of your minor children

A - Asset Protection. Plan for Wealth Preservation. 

C - Carry Through, Communicate & Update. Once you create an estate plan, you need to carry through, communicate and be sure you notify your trusted guardians and trustees of all your plans. They need to know where your original documents are, and which documents

should be used in what situations. Your plan also needs to be updated throughout your life as circumstances change.

Y - Your Family Legacy. Pass on your values, insights and stories.

3. What is the difference between a will and a trust?

A will and a living trust are two different legal instruments used to transfer property and assets upon death. A will is a document that outlines how you would like your property and assets to be distributed after your death, while a living trust is a legal entity that is created while you are still alive and designates who will receive your assets when you pass away. The main difference between a will and a living trust is that a living trust takes effect immediately and allows for the transfer of assets without the need for probate court proceedings, which can be lengthy and costly. Wills, on the other hand, must be approved by a court before the assets are distributed, and this process can take months or even years to complete. Additionally, a living trust is a private document, while a will is a public document that can be accessed by anyone.

4. What is a Caregiver's Guide and why should families have one

An Instructions to Guardians Memorandum (aka Caregiver’s Guide)  provides guidance to the guardians of your minor children if you are unable to care for your children due to death or disability. The memorandum gives guidance with respect to those decisions you consider most important when raising our children, including education, religion and discipline, children-rearing practices, financial considerations, and your wishes regarding your children’s care. 

This article includes excerpts from the International Bestselling Book, Legally Ever After, written by Estate Planning Attorney Pamela Maass Garrett.

Healthy Habits: Weighted Blankets

 There are several simple ways to improve your sleep quality, from cutting out cups of coffee to avoiding any daytime naps – but there are also bedroom additions to consider; specifically weighted blankets. 

 

While a weighted blanket will certainly make you feel cozier in your bedroom, it also has plenty of benefits that will not only contribute to a better night’s sleep but can also help with several health problems. 

 

Experts at Hush. have outlined eight benefits of a weighted blanket, including chronic pain relief and decreasing the frequency of seizures. 

 

Lowers your stress response 

There are many health problems that can occur from an overactive sympathetic nervous system, which triggers our fight or flight response, such as obesity and kidney disease. The deep pressure stimulation in a weighted blanket works to calm nerves and lowers the physiological stress levels, preventing these harmful health issues. 

 

Decreases cortisol levels 

Cortisol, the stress hormone, has been linked to many health issues, including heart disease, weight gain, and high blood sugar – so it’s important to keep the levels low when you can, which is possible with a weighted blanket. Studies have found that deep pressure can lower our cortisol levels and increase serotonin production. 

 

Relieves anxiety symptoms 

Anxiety is a mental health disorders experienced by many with approximately 275 million people around the world suffering with this. Some of the common symptoms include fast heart rate and quick breathing which can be relieved with a weighted blanket. It puts the autonomic nervous system into rest mode and promotes feelings of relaxation. 

 

Promotes deep sleep 

Over 35% of Americans get under seven hours of shut-eye at night, with nearly half of the nation claiming that they feel tired in the daytime between three to seven days each week. Weighted blankets can combat the struggles of insufficient sleep similarly to the way they help anxiety, by calming the heart rate to ensure you fall into a deep sleep. Plus, they use deep pressure stimulation which increases levels of melatonin, known as the sleep hormone. 

 

Eases pain 

Chronic pain including headaches, arthritis, and back pain affects 1 in 5 Americans. Research has shown that sleeping with a weighted blanket can reduce pain; a recent study of 94 chronic pain patients discovered that the gentle pressure from a 15lb weighted blanket eased their symptoms. 

 

Helps with Alzheimer’s and dementia 

Some of the symptoms that people with Alzheimer’s and dementia may face are difficulty sleeping due to agitation. Given that weighted blankets promote relaxation by calming nerves and reducing anxiety, they can be used as a non-drug option for dementia and Alzheimer’s sufferers. As well as this, a previous case study reflected a decrease in night-time wandering, hallucinations, and emotional disturbances for a patient with Alzheimer’s by using a weighted blanket. 

 

Reduce the incidence of seizures 

Epilepsy is one of the most common conditions affecting the brain, with 5.1 million people in the U.S having a history of the condition. Relaxation techniques can work effectively alongside epilepsy medication to reduce the frequency of seizures. One of these techniques is using a weighted blanket as it has deep touch pressure, lowering stress. Although, it’s important to note that some forms of epilepsy make you more prone to seizures when you feel deeply relaxed therefore, please consult with a doctor.

 

Boosts your mood 

In addition to the benefits of improving mental disorders and easing pain, weighted blankets can act as a mood booster. Due to the pressure of a weighted blanket, the production of oxytocin increases, which is a feel-good hormone – and combined with the decrease in cortisol, this works to improve your overall mood. 

 

A spokesperson from Hush. has commented: “There are an abundance of advantages to weighted blankets, whether you struggle to sleep well at night or even if you simply desire a cozier bedroom. However, what’s really interesting is how they can benefit those with health problems, both mental and physical. While a weighted blanket isn’t the sole solution to these health issues, it’s certainly a way to ease symptoms and make those suffering from problems like Alzheimer’s and chronic pain more comfortable.” 

 

This information was provided by Hush., a bedding and mattress brand based in Canada. 

 

Post courtesy of hush.ca.