New Life + Death Paperwork

This is a load off my shoulders…

In both of the times I’ve been widowed, I’ve needed to provide legal documentation regarding what was left to me as the surviving spouse of the deceased. Now that I’ve been through this twice, I can’t imagine living without these papers being signed, witnessed and notarized.

Unfortunately, death reveals the longevity of relationships and people who may have been able to be there for you through life are no longer around at death. So, it’s important to revisit your Last Will & Testament, Hippa Authorization, Advanced Directive & Power of Attorney papers when major changes happen - even if it isn’t death.

I’m grateful for Mark’s long-time friends who came over to witness that I was in my right, though grieving mind to sign these papers and honor my wishes (none of which are their business, nor did they ask). They were the ones that found the notary since the one we’d worked with when Mister and I moved to Washington stopped communicating with me. Worked out fine though because the notary that came over tonight lives so close that she only charged me $20 (I tipped her $20). It was a great deal and her disposition was lovely.

I called my son while making copies of all of the signed papers to let him know where they papers and passwords could be found in the event he needs any of them. And now, I’m smiling and extremely grateful knowing this very important task is now crossed off my list.

And this is a huge relief.

If you haven’t done this for yourself and had your people do this, please prioritize it for yourself. It will help remove unnecessary stress from a very stressful, grief-filled situation.