Happy New Year 2011

Happy New Year!!!

Did you make any New Year's Resolutions?

This is a time when many people set out to change their life; whether that means changing budgetary finance issues, dietary health issues, life philosophies, or problem solving techniques, I wish you the very best.

I recently reviewed The 10 Commandments of Common Sense, by Hal Urban. What a great guide for life transformation! As you know, Common Sense is in many cases quite uncommon!

1. The past three years have given many people new perspectives of financial issues, and consumer spending. People have begun using Layaway plans, and Christmas Club accounts again. As a child, I used a Layaway Plan at Kmart to purchase a Green Machine, the hot toy for kids one year. After only 4 months, I had worked to earn the 31.50 plus tax to get the toy out of the store. I rode my Green Machine for many months, then sold it at a yard sale.

Remember Yard Sales? I have been recommending those to clients quite frequently. How much stuff do we really need. Donations to Good Will, the Salvation Army, and other recyclers is a side benefit of spring cleaning which I want to start sooner rather than later. Donations to charities also help the bottom line at tax time if you keep good records of gifts and values.

Remember Visa? MasterCard? American Express? How much are you using those plastic perils? I have heard from so many people that they no longer carry a credit card other than their banks own debit card for purchases. If they need to borrow to spend, they are rethinking the spending and planning other avenues of support.

2. I signed up to run the New York City Half Marathon. I have run several in the past and need to get back into distance running shape. Eating right and exercise provide benefits for life that far outweigh the temporary happiness found in a bowl of ice cream or extra juicy Pittsburgh Style rib eye. Oops, now my mouth is watering.

3. My life philosophy has always been to follow the teachings of Jesus Christ. Call me a Christian, I am not offended. I am also not pushy. For me, I find the Holy Bible to be full of truth and also suggestive of consequences. As a member of the Board of Directors of Christian Ethics Today, I enjoy finding new ways to serve God.

4. Problems solving techniques are really central to my work as an attorney. My favorite technique is merely Anti-procrastination. If you can do it today, why wait til tomorrow? Another is to learn all you can so you can consider more than one solutions to a problem. Time is a precious gift, and its wise use is central to living a life well.

When you have a legal issue this year, I hope you will call me. I can help find a solution or alternative course of action. When issues arise with aging parents, Elder Law Attorneys have great experience dealing with the common issues, and uncommon advice for the truly bizarre issues. Family Law practice centers on Divorce and making sure the needs of children are met. Please call me when you would like to discuss options for your life.