Love, Legacy, and Long Term Protection: Estate Planning as an Act of Love
February 18, 2026
Love, Legacy, and Long Term Protection:
Estate Planning as an Act of Love

February is often associated with love, relationships, and appreciation. Valentine’s Day reminds us to celebrate the people who matter most in our lives. While many people think of love in terms of gifts or special moments, one of the most meaningful ways to show love is through preparation.
Estate planning is not something most people connect with romance, but it is one of the most caring and responsible things you can do for your family.
Protecting the People You Care About
At its core, estate planning is about people. It is about making sure your spouse is protected, your children are cared for, and your loved ones are not left guessing about your wishes. Without clear legal instructions, families can face unnecessary stress, confusion, and even conflict.
Having an estate plan in place helps ensure that decisions are made according to your wishes rather than left up to the court. It allows your family to focus on supporting one another instead of dealing with legal uncertainty.
Why Couples Should Plan Together
February is a natural time for couples to talk about the future. Estate planning encourages honest conversations about finances, healthcare decisions, and long term goals. These discussions can feel uncomfortable at first, but they often bring couples closer by creating clarity and shared understanding.
For married couples, estate planning helps ensure assets are transferred smoothly and efficiently. For unmarried couples, it is especially important because state laws may not automatically reflect your intentions without proper documents.
Parents and Guardianship Decisions
For parents, estate planning is essential. One of the most important decisions you will ever make is choosing who would care for your children if something happened to you. Without a will, that decision could be left to a judge who does not know your family or values.
Taking the time to name a guardian is an act of love and responsibility. It provides guidance and stability for your children during a difficult time.

December is a time for family, giving, and reflection. As the holidays approach, we often focus on gifts under the tree and memories made around the table. But one of the most meaningful gifts you can give your loved ones does not come wrapped in paper or tied with a bow. It is the gift of preparation. Estate planning is about more than documents. It is about protecting your family, ensuring your wishes are carried out, and creating clarity for the future. Without a plan, families may face probate, which can add stress, expense, and heartache during an already difficult time. This holiday season, think beyond the presents. Consider what matters most: family, stability, and peace of mind. A will, a trust, or powers of attorney ensure your loved ones are protected. And if you are already facing probate, working with a trusted probate attorney can make the process smoother and less overwhelming. At The Law Office of Jennifer G. Morton, we believe estate planning is an act of love and responsibility. Just as the holidays bring families closer together, planning ahead brings comfort and security that will last long after the decorations are packed away. This December, give your family a gift that lasts. Contact our office to create or update your estate plan, or to help navigate probate with care and compassion. Peace of mind is the greatest present of all.

November is the season of gratitude, family gatherings, and reflection. As we prepare for Thanksgiving, we often think about what we are thankful for: our loved ones, the home we live in, the traditions we share, and the memories we create. But Thanksgiving is also a reminder of something deeper. Just as we gather around the table to celebrate the present, we should also take steps to protect the future. Estate planning is about ensuring that the people and things you are most thankful for are cared for when you are no longer able to do so. Having a will, a trust, or powers of attorney in place is not about dwelling on the “what ifs.” It is about giving your family peace of mind, clarity, and stability. Without a plan, your loved ones could face unnecessary stress, disputes, and delays in probate. This holiday season, let your gratitude extend beyond words. Give your family the gift of preparedness. An estate plan is one of the most meaningful ways to show love and thanks—it protects your legacy and gives your loved ones a smoother path forward. If you have been putting off your will or need to update your plan, now is the perfect time. Just as Thanksgiving reminds us to express gratitude, let it also remind you to prepare for the future. It is one of the best ways to show thanks for the people you love most.


