Thursday, December 30, 2010
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Monday, December 20, 2010
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Tax Law Update
Late Monday, December 6th, President Obama announced that he had reached a compromise with Republican Senators for a two-year extension of the Bush-era tax cuts, plus two years of a $5 million federal estate tax exemption and 35% maximum federal estate tax rate, in exchange for a 13-month extension of unemployment insurance benefits (including a 2% reduction in payroll tax, from 6.2% to 4.2%, in 2011).
Almost immediately this compromise drew fire from both sides of the aisle. Reports from TheHill.com reflect that Republicans and Democrats alike are criticizing various elements of this deal. For example, in Republican ranks uneasy, await details of tax deal with Obama, TheHill.com quotes the Chairwoman of the Tea Party Caucus, Michelle Bachmann, and concludes that “Congressional Republicans could balk at voting to extend all the tax cuts for two years if it’s tied to a long-term extension of jobless benefits.”
And in Democrats to draw line at estate tax after Obama’s deal with Republicans, TheHill.com quotes Nancy Pelosi as saying the estate-tax provision was “a bridge too far.”
By Wednesday, December 8th, it was clear that there is little agreement between the President and lawmakers from his own party. In White House says Democrats partly to blame for tax-cut deal with GOP, TheHill.com reports that White House communications director Dan Pfeiffer said that their own party (and particularly Senate Democrats) is at least partly to blame for the deal. “Pfeiffer's remarks underscore the tensions between the White House and members of its own party on Capitol Hill, where Democrats have threatened to vote down the tax proposal.”
Thus it appears highly unlikely that this compromise will become law (at least not as is). (This information was reported in the WealthCounsel Weekly December 9, 2010)
Almost immediately this compromise drew fire from both sides of the aisle. Reports from TheHill.com reflect that Republicans and Democrats alike are criticizing various elements of this deal. For example, in Republican ranks uneasy, await details of tax deal with Obama, TheHill.com quotes the Chairwoman of the Tea Party Caucus, Michelle Bachmann, and concludes that “Congressional Republicans could balk at voting to extend all the tax cuts for two years if it’s tied to a long-term extension of jobless benefits.”
And in Democrats to draw line at estate tax after Obama’s deal with Republicans, TheHill.com quotes Nancy Pelosi as saying the estate-tax provision was “a bridge too far.”
By Wednesday, December 8th, it was clear that there is little agreement between the President and lawmakers from his own party. In White House says Democrats partly to blame for tax-cut deal with GOP, TheHill.com reports that White House communications director Dan Pfeiffer said that their own party (and particularly Senate Democrats) is at least partly to blame for the deal. “Pfeiffer's remarks underscore the tensions between the White House and members of its own party on Capitol Hill, where Democrats have threatened to vote down the tax proposal.”
Thus it appears highly unlikely that this compromise will become law (at least not as is). (This information was reported in the WealthCounsel Weekly December 9, 2010)
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Horseback Riding Around the World
A few years ago, my friends and I started taking horse back riding trips around the world. Our first was to the most northern part of Quebec. This could not have been more fun - we stayed in a different bed and breakfast every night. We loved our guides and made some new friends. Next was Ireland - what a fabulous time. Great horses, great guides, great acommodations. I can't say much for the food - lol. I did bring home an Irish collie dog - Princess Fiona of Carna Bay so there are unexpected pleasures as well. Next we rode the south of Spain on the recommendation of some friends we made in Ireland (they were from Scotland). The Andalusian horses were a blast. We loved galloping down the beach and stopping for siesta each day at a local bar where I ate my weight in olives. Then back to the great north to ride Icelandics in British Columbia. We loved the beauty of the country and saw a few baby bears - glad momma wasn't around. Again, more great times, more new friends. I would highly recommend one of these adventure vacations if you want something really fun and different. Check out Hidden Trails as a resource. Hidden Trails
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Friday, December 3, 2010
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Monday, November 29, 2010
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Friday, November 19, 2010
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Monday, November 15, 2010
Sunday, November 14, 2010
You can't send a duck to eagle school - how true!
An excerpt from
You Can't Send a Duck to Eagle School
by Mac Anderson
Not long ago, a friend sent me the story of "Old Warwick." It brought a smile to my face, and I think it shares a wonderful lesson for every leader to learn.
A man was lost while driving through the country. As he tried to reach for the map, he accidentally drove off the road into a ditch. Thought he wasn't injured, his car was stuck deep in the mud. So the man walked to a nearby farm to ask for help. "Warwick can get you out of that ditch," said the farmer, pointing to an old mule standing in a field. The man looked at the decrepit old mule and looked at the farmer who just stood there repeating,"Yep, old Warwick can do the job."
The man figured he had nothing to lose. The two men and the mule made their way back to the ditch. The farmer hitched the mule to the car. With a snap of the reins, he shouted, "Pull, Fred! Pull, Jack! Pull, Ted! Pull, Warwick!"
And the mule pulled that car right out of the ditch.
The man was amazed. He thanked the farmer, patted the mule, and asked, "Why did you call out all of those names before you called Warwick?" The farmer grinned and said, "Old Warwick is just about blind. As long as he believes he's part of a team, he doesn't mind pulling."
Teamwork is the ability to work together toward a common vision. The ability to direct individual accomplishment toward organizational objectives. It is the fuel that allows common people to obtain uncommon results.
You Can't Send a Duck to Eagle School
by Mac Anderson
Not long ago, a friend sent me the story of "Old Warwick." It brought a smile to my face, and I think it shares a wonderful lesson for every leader to learn.
A man was lost while driving through the country. As he tried to reach for the map, he accidentally drove off the road into a ditch. Thought he wasn't injured, his car was stuck deep in the mud. So the man walked to a nearby farm to ask for help. "Warwick can get you out of that ditch," said the farmer, pointing to an old mule standing in a field. The man looked at the decrepit old mule and looked at the farmer who just stood there repeating,"Yep, old Warwick can do the job."
The man figured he had nothing to lose. The two men and the mule made their way back to the ditch. The farmer hitched the mule to the car. With a snap of the reins, he shouted, "Pull, Fred! Pull, Jack! Pull, Ted! Pull, Warwick!"
And the mule pulled that car right out of the ditch.
The man was amazed. He thanked the farmer, patted the mule, and asked, "Why did you call out all of those names before you called Warwick?" The farmer grinned and said, "Old Warwick is just about blind. As long as he believes he's part of a team, he doesn't mind pulling."
Teamwork is the ability to work together toward a common vision. The ability to direct individual accomplishment toward organizational objectives. It is the fuel that allows common people to obtain uncommon results.
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Monday, November 1, 2010
Friday, October 29, 2010
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
The American Dream - Revisited
People talk about the American Dream – the ability to make money with complete freedom in this country. This dream is what has attracted so many immigrants to the United States over the years. If you were born in this country, you probably haven’t given much thought to the American Dream. This is undoubtedly because you’ve lived a life where your parents made sure you had everything you needed, and most of us got everything we wanted, too.
As we get older we realize we have to be responsible for getting the things we want and need. Then, it may not be quite so easy. Especially today when we are experiencing economic turmoil like most of us have never experienced.
The American Dream is still alive and well. But it doesn’t come without some hard work and some sacrifice. What are you willing to give up to achieve your dreams? What are your dreams and goals? Can you articulate them by writing them down? This is a good habit – writing down all of things you want to be, do or have. You may be surprised as you review your goals over the years how many of them have been achieved.
One of my goals is to replace my annual income as my monthly income. How am I going to do this? First, I’m going to believe that I can. I subscribe to a life philosophy that says, “Thoughts become things, choose the good ones.” Second, I plan to create multiple streams of income. I don’t want to have to rely on one source for my income. I’m a partner in my own law firm – that’s one source. There I trade my time (and the time of my employees) for dollars. I’m also an author and I own the publishing company that produces my books – that’s another source. I’ve taught law school – another source. I have some investment income – yet another source. Someday, I’ll have Social Security income (maybe). And then there’s the monthly and residual income I earn from SendOutCards. This is the source of income that has the greatest potential for long-term stability.
When I can’t practice law anymore, my income stops. If I stop writing and publishing books, my income stops. If I don’t teach, my income stops. Investment income can fluctuate based on the idiosyncrasies of the stock and bond markets. Social Security income, well that’s another conversation altogether. SendOutCards income is where I see the opportunity for my future.
I was first introduced to SendOutCards at a meeting in Scottsdale, Arizona. I was attending a conference of attorneys, certified public accountants and financial advisors that wanted to work successfully with families whose net worth was more than 10 million dollars. Midway through the second day, my friend (and SendOutCards business partner) Teresa and I took a break and went to the shopping mall nearby. We went into Tiffany’s and tried on diamond rings. We each found one we liked (not hard to do). We gasped when we saw the price tag – more than $65,000! Teresa asked, “Would we ever spend $65,000 on a diamond ring?” “Unlikely,” was my response. But, we determined that we might be willing to spend $25,000 on a ring if we had a way to make extra income (defined as income we did not need for our daily expenses and savings). We discussed the various possibilities for making money. We could start another business…but this time, instead of a law practice we wanted to do something that was “easy and fun.”
The very next morning we went back to our conference and the first person on the podium that morning was Adam Packard. He introduced us to SendOutCards by showing us how we could use the online card creation system in our businesses to help us do a better job of staying in touch with clients, family and friends. We would never again forget another birthday, anniversary or special occasion. This is great! Exactly what we need to do a better job staying “top of mind” with those people we cared about. We could use our own handwriting and even send gifts. Perfect, how do we sign up? Both Teresa and I had determined very quickly this was a great tool to use in our law practices. What we didn’t know about (or see at that moment) was the business opportunity that was staring us right in the face.
Teresa and I spent that weekend at the Grand Canyon relaxing, exploring and thinking about business opportunities we could get involved with (or create) that would be “easy and fun.” We were unable to come up with an answer. They were either too time intensive or required a large capital investment. Then, Tuesday morning when I got on the plane to fly back to Orlando, I sat down next to a lady whose first words were, “Have you ever heard of SendOutCards?” I was stunned. There it was – the answer to our “easy and fun” question. A business opportunity we hadn’t even considered, until that moment. And it didn’t cost a fortune to get started. By 10 a.m. the next morning, we became SendOutCards distributors, we were registered as a limited liability company (don’t forget, first we are lawyers), and we owned the domain name, CardDivas.com.
That was the start of our SendOutCards experience – and it’s been a great one. We quickly promoted to the level of Senior Manager. We achieved VIP status at our first Convention in 2009. We won a spot on the VIP incentive trip to Cancun in early 2010. And, we qualified as VIPs again for the 2010 Convention. Talk about fun! We have met so many wonderful people. Never have we been surrounded by so many motivated positive people. They keep us motivated and moving forward because we want to be surrounded by them and their success!
Our goal now is to promote to Executive. To do so, we have to help five (5) people achieve Senior Manager status. Becoming a Senior Manager takes some concentration and some effort – but it’s not that hard (and it is fun). What’s hard seems to be finding people who are motivated to achieve something greater in their lives. It’s easy to make excuses – I have a full time job, I have kids and a husband, I don’t have any money, I ……blah, blah, blah. Fill in the blanks. Frankly, if someone is looking for an excuse, any one will suffice. Excuses are simply empty reasons for not accomplishing goals.
If you are a doer, someone who is committed to being, having and doing all that you can possibly achieve – you should consider this company! We will be happy to help you accomplish your goals – whatever they are. “Make a Living Through Giving” – very simple, send a card a day and a gift a week. You can make it happen!
As we get older we realize we have to be responsible for getting the things we want and need. Then, it may not be quite so easy. Especially today when we are experiencing economic turmoil like most of us have never experienced.
The American Dream is still alive and well. But it doesn’t come without some hard work and some sacrifice. What are you willing to give up to achieve your dreams? What are your dreams and goals? Can you articulate them by writing them down? This is a good habit – writing down all of things you want to be, do or have. You may be surprised as you review your goals over the years how many of them have been achieved.
One of my goals is to replace my annual income as my monthly income. How am I going to do this? First, I’m going to believe that I can. I subscribe to a life philosophy that says, “Thoughts become things, choose the good ones.” Second, I plan to create multiple streams of income. I don’t want to have to rely on one source for my income. I’m a partner in my own law firm – that’s one source. There I trade my time (and the time of my employees) for dollars. I’m also an author and I own the publishing company that produces my books – that’s another source. I’ve taught law school – another source. I have some investment income – yet another source. Someday, I’ll have Social Security income (maybe). And then there’s the monthly and residual income I earn from SendOutCards. This is the source of income that has the greatest potential for long-term stability.
When I can’t practice law anymore, my income stops. If I stop writing and publishing books, my income stops. If I don’t teach, my income stops. Investment income can fluctuate based on the idiosyncrasies of the stock and bond markets. Social Security income, well that’s another conversation altogether. SendOutCards income is where I see the opportunity for my future.
I was first introduced to SendOutCards at a meeting in Scottsdale, Arizona. I was attending a conference of attorneys, certified public accountants and financial advisors that wanted to work successfully with families whose net worth was more than 10 million dollars. Midway through the second day, my friend (and SendOutCards business partner) Teresa and I took a break and went to the shopping mall nearby. We went into Tiffany’s and tried on diamond rings. We each found one we liked (not hard to do). We gasped when we saw the price tag – more than $65,000! Teresa asked, “Would we ever spend $65,000 on a diamond ring?” “Unlikely,” was my response. But, we determined that we might be willing to spend $25,000 on a ring if we had a way to make extra income (defined as income we did not need for our daily expenses and savings). We discussed the various possibilities for making money. We could start another business…but this time, instead of a law practice we wanted to do something that was “easy and fun.”
The very next morning we went back to our conference and the first person on the podium that morning was Adam Packard. He introduced us to SendOutCards by showing us how we could use the online card creation system in our businesses to help us do a better job of staying in touch with clients, family and friends. We would never again forget another birthday, anniversary or special occasion. This is great! Exactly what we need to do a better job staying “top of mind” with those people we cared about. We could use our own handwriting and even send gifts. Perfect, how do we sign up? Both Teresa and I had determined very quickly this was a great tool to use in our law practices. What we didn’t know about (or see at that moment) was the business opportunity that was staring us right in the face.
Teresa and I spent that weekend at the Grand Canyon relaxing, exploring and thinking about business opportunities we could get involved with (or create) that would be “easy and fun.” We were unable to come up with an answer. They were either too time intensive or required a large capital investment. Then, Tuesday morning when I got on the plane to fly back to Orlando, I sat down next to a lady whose first words were, “Have you ever heard of SendOutCards?” I was stunned. There it was – the answer to our “easy and fun” question. A business opportunity we hadn’t even considered, until that moment. And it didn’t cost a fortune to get started. By 10 a.m. the next morning, we became SendOutCards distributors, we were registered as a limited liability company (don’t forget, first we are lawyers), and we owned the domain name, CardDivas.com.
That was the start of our SendOutCards experience – and it’s been a great one. We quickly promoted to the level of Senior Manager. We achieved VIP status at our first Convention in 2009. We won a spot on the VIP incentive trip to Cancun in early 2010. And, we qualified as VIPs again for the 2010 Convention. Talk about fun! We have met so many wonderful people. Never have we been surrounded by so many motivated positive people. They keep us motivated and moving forward because we want to be surrounded by them and their success!
Our goal now is to promote to Executive. To do so, we have to help five (5) people achieve Senior Manager status. Becoming a Senior Manager takes some concentration and some effort – but it’s not that hard (and it is fun). What’s hard seems to be finding people who are motivated to achieve something greater in their lives. It’s easy to make excuses – I have a full time job, I have kids and a husband, I don’t have any money, I ……blah, blah, blah. Fill in the blanks. Frankly, if someone is looking for an excuse, any one will suffice. Excuses are simply empty reasons for not accomplishing goals.
If you are a doer, someone who is committed to being, having and doing all that you can possibly achieve – you should consider this company! We will be happy to help you accomplish your goals – whatever they are. “Make a Living Through Giving” – very simple, send a card a day and a gift a week. You can make it happen!
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Sometimes You Can't Make it on Your Own
This is an interesting and pertinent article for solo and small firm law practitioners.
Sometimes You Can't Make it on Your Own
Sometimes You Can't Make it on Your Own
Friday, October 1, 2010
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Remember to be grateful - shared by a friend
THE LORD'S TEST
I woke up this morning and knew that today,
The sun would not be shining
and the clouds would be gray.
As I stepped outside,
Rain fell upon my head.
My car wouldn't start
so I walked to work instead.
I forgot all of my duties & assignments
I failed to accomplish my mission/goals for the day.
I dropped my head in disgust and asked the Lord for one request.
'Lord, why is it that
things won't go my way?'
He gently replied,
'Dear child it is because
you didn't thank me yesterday.
I woke you up and enabled
you to see the sun again.
I gave you shelter,
protected your family, and even let you make a new friend..
I blessed you far greater than I ever had before..
But you were too busy
to thank me once more.
You didn't feel sick
because I maintained your health.
You had money in your pocket because I maintained your wealth.
You had shoes on your feet
and clothes to wear, too.
You had plenty of food to eat, and what did you do?
You ignored me and went
about your tasks. But when you wanted something
you never hesitated to ask.
I was there when you needed me and that wasn't too long ago. But when
things started going your way,
it was me you did not know.
As if that weren't enough,
I provided your favorite luxuries.. This was something I didn't have
to do-they weren't even necessities.
And when it was time to get on your knees and show your gratitude,
You decided that after such a fulfilling day, you weren't in the mood.
So I decided to give you just a little test..
To show you how it would feel to stop being blessed.'
I began to realize what
the Lord was saying.
And when I got home, I fell
to my knees and started praying.
He said, 'My child, you have learned and you know I do forgive.
But remember to remember this day as long as you shall live.
I love filling your life with joy, and your pain I'll alleviate it.
But just a simple thank you
would show how much you
appreciate it.'
I woke up this morning and knew that today,
The sun would not be shining
and the clouds would be gray.
As I stepped outside,
Rain fell upon my head.
My car wouldn't start
so I walked to work instead.
I forgot all of my duties & assignments
I failed to accomplish my mission/goals for the day.
I dropped my head in disgust and asked the Lord for one request.
'Lord, why is it that
things won't go my way?'
He gently replied,
'Dear child it is because
you didn't thank me yesterday.
I woke you up and enabled
you to see the sun again.
I gave you shelter,
protected your family, and even let you make a new friend..
I blessed you far greater than I ever had before..
But you were too busy
to thank me once more.
You didn't feel sick
because I maintained your health.
You had money in your pocket because I maintained your wealth.
You had shoes on your feet
and clothes to wear, too.
You had plenty of food to eat, and what did you do?
You ignored me and went
about your tasks. But when you wanted something
you never hesitated to ask.
I was there when you needed me and that wasn't too long ago. But when
things started going your way,
it was me you did not know.
As if that weren't enough,
I provided your favorite luxuries.. This was something I didn't have
to do-they weren't even necessities.
And when it was time to get on your knees and show your gratitude,
You decided that after such a fulfilling day, you weren't in the mood.
So I decided to give you just a little test..
To show you how it would feel to stop being blessed.'
I began to realize what
the Lord was saying.
And when I got home, I fell
to my knees and started praying.
He said, 'My child, you have learned and you know I do forgive.
But remember to remember this day as long as you shall live.
I love filling your life with joy, and your pain I'll alleviate it.
But just a simple thank you
would show how much you
appreciate it.'
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Sunday, September 5, 2010
Friday, September 3, 2010
These puppies need homes!
If you have room in your heart for a puppy, please take a look. They are too cute - puppies for adoption. I have seen them in person and they are precious.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
How to Help Clients Have a ‘Straight Talk’ with Their Parents on Estate Planning and Long-Term Care Needs http://ping.fm/JEJjB
Monday, August 30, 2010
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Special People, Special Planning Teleseminar
Teleseminar with Peggy R. Hoyt & Scott D. Martin of Divorce Direction discussing "Special People, Special Planning"
Friday, August 6, 2010
Sunday, August 1, 2010
Joint tenancy; joys, perils and pitfalls
Joint tenancy; joys, perils and pitfalls. Here's my latest article on Examiner.com. You can subscribe directly at Examiner.com, helping me get more national exposure.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Network Charities
Animal Lovers and Animal Organizations can now find a home on the same website. Network Charities
Friday, June 25, 2010
Animal Legal Defense Fund : Animal Law 101
Here's an online course, called Animal Law 101 sponsored by the Animal Legal Defense Fund. Animal Legal Defense Fund : Animal Law 101
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Understanding real and personal property
This is my latest article on Examiner.com. If you want to stay abreast of estate planning issues (according to Peggy), you can subscribe at Examiner.com. Understanding real and personal property
Monday, June 14, 2010
What Happens to Your Pets if You Die?
This is a personal friend and comrade in the crusade to educate people about the importance of planning for their pets - both at disability and death. What Happens to Your Pets if You Die?
Friday, June 11, 2010
Role Reversal - When Your Parents Need Your Help
Your parents have always been there for you. For all those years growing up, your parents were the ones to offer advice, a shoulder to cry on, and always it seemed, available to lend a helping hand, whenever and wherever. Remember the first day of kindergarten when one or both of your parents walked you to your classroom, their eyes shiny brightly with the tears they didn't want you to see? How about the time you skinned your knee and mom was there to kiss it and make it feel better? What about the day you learned to ride your bike without training wheels and your mom or dad was right there running along side to make sure it was smooth sailing?
Every important moment in my life was shared by my parents. All of my important firsts (well, almost all of them), had my parents front and center. From kindergarten to high school graduation to not one, but multiple college graduations, to my first wedding. They have always been my biggest fans. If I ever needed someone to build my self-confidence or help me through a hard time, they were there.
Now, it's my turn to be there. My parents are aging--and it's hard to watch, let alone participate in. Like the Bonnie Rait song, Nick of Time when she says, "I see my folks, they're getting old, I watch their bodies change. I know they see the same in me and it makes us both feel strange." It certainly does.
I'm visiting with my parents for a couple of days to "see how things are going." Today, after shopping and lunch with my mom (my dad was home with a nurse caregiver) we went to the funeral home and pre-planned and pre-paid for my dad's funeral service. And there you have it...From the beginning of my life to the end of his, someone has to be there. I'm proud and pleased to be able to help my parents when they need me. Fortunately I have three sisters who live significantly closer to my parents than I do and they take the lion's share of the day-to-day responsibility. Today was my turn to do what I can to help ease the concerns my mom and dad have about the inevitable--death.
Ben Franklin once said, "there's nothing certain in life except death and taxes." Still true, even today. Even more important is the certainty of change. Are you ready for it?
Every important moment in my life was shared by my parents. All of my important firsts (well, almost all of them), had my parents front and center. From kindergarten to high school graduation to not one, but multiple college graduations, to my first wedding. They have always been my biggest fans. If I ever needed someone to build my self-confidence or help me through a hard time, they were there.
Now, it's my turn to be there. My parents are aging--and it's hard to watch, let alone participate in. Like the Bonnie Rait song, Nick of Time when she says, "I see my folks, they're getting old, I watch their bodies change. I know they see the same in me and it makes us both feel strange." It certainly does.
I'm visiting with my parents for a couple of days to "see how things are going." Today, after shopping and lunch with my mom (my dad was home with a nurse caregiver) we went to the funeral home and pre-planned and pre-paid for my dad's funeral service. And there you have it...From the beginning of my life to the end of his, someone has to be there. I'm proud and pleased to be able to help my parents when they need me. Fortunately I have three sisters who live significantly closer to my parents than I do and they take the lion's share of the day-to-day responsibility. Today was my turn to do what I can to help ease the concerns my mom and dad have about the inevitable--death.
Ben Franklin once said, "there's nothing certain in life except death and taxes." Still true, even today. Even more important is the certainty of change. Are you ready for it?
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Here's some information on shorebird rescue related to our recent oil spill. Please help. http://ping.fm/Qdo3V
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Today was the Make 'em Smile Walk at Lake Eola for Nathaniel's Hope. Join us next year. http://ping.fm/fNHMi
Friday, June 4, 2010
June is adopt a shelter cat month. Don't forget, "until there are none, adopt one." http://bit.ly/dhxACH
Friday, May 28, 2010
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Animal Legal Defense Fund : Clarifying the Supreme Court's United States v. Stevens Opinion http://ping.fm/qcDn1
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Monday, April 26, 2010
Puppy Love
As a relatively “new mother” of now 17 week old puppies (not to mention my three adult dogs), I am aware of the multitude of benefits pets bring to our lives. AARP recently reported the following statistics: 24% of pet owners over 55 celebrate their pet’s birthdays and 57% of pet owners over 55 say their pets are more likely than their significant other to give them welcome-home kisses.
This last statistic confirms my admonitions to my husband that most marriages would benefit from a few lessons learned from dogs. If all spouses greeted each other with the enthusiasm expressed by a welcoming dog, the divorce rate should decline substantially. I can hardly get out of my car upon arrival home; I always have four wet noses trying to climb into the front seat and onto my lap. (Note: the only reason my fifth dog doesn’t join the “welcoming committee” is she goes to work with me everyday and is already with me.) They are always happy to see me, never care what time it is or if I’m delayed. They are just unabashedly joyous that I’ve come home.
This last statistic confirms my admonitions to my husband that most marriages would benefit from a few lessons learned from dogs. If all spouses greeted each other with the enthusiasm expressed by a welcoming dog, the divorce rate should decline substantially. I can hardly get out of my car upon arrival home; I always have four wet noses trying to climb into the front seat and onto my lap. (Note: the only reason my fifth dog doesn’t join the “welcoming committee” is she goes to work with me everyday and is already with me.) They are always happy to see me, never care what time it is or if I’m delayed. They are just unabashedly joyous that I’ve come home.
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Monday, April 5, 2010
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Goodbye Dave Green
I lost a friend on Friday. Saying goodbye is never easy, never expected. Dave was stoic for a long time about his illness - didn't want anyone to know, to pity him or to act differently around him. I was invited into the inner circle - someone he did share his concerns with. I am honored. I was included partially because in addition to being his friend, I am his attorney. I love my clients and find that many of them become like Dave, friends. When our firm adopted our motto, "Partners in Planning, Friends for Life" it wasn't just something we said without really meaning it. And that's the best part - becoming really good friends with really special people. It's a true blessing and I'm grateful for the opportunity. Every day a new friend enters my life. We have time for everyone and everything we make a priority. I make time for friends.
I wish Dave a safe and peaceful journey. I feel his presence and appreciate his goodness. He is loved by so many. His life was truly blessed. Godspeed Dave.
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Legacy of An Early HSUS Leader: John Hoyt - Wayne Pacelle: A Humane Nation
You may know that my dad, John A. Hoyt, was the President and CEO of The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) before his retirement. This is an article prepared by the HSUS to acknowledge his leadership and contributions.
Legacy of An Early HSUS Leader: John Hoyt - Wayne Pacelle: A Humane Nation
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Legacy of An Early HSUS Leader: John Hoyt - Wayne Pacelle: A Humane Nation
Posted using ShareThis
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