The tough stuff...

In life, there are many topics that we sometimes try to avoid:

• politics {I have my opinion and you have yours, and that's ok}
• money {most people have it, most want more}
• death {something that will happen one day}

It's the last one that should be talked about with those you love, and it's probably one of the hardest things to talk about.

No one likes thinking that an unexpected, life altering or ending event could happen to them or those they love; but in my job we deal with those events everyday. Three books that I've read recently (While My Sister Sleeps, Sweetgrass, and The Choice. See In My Book bag for more) all deal with those hard choice we all may have to make one day.

With Bailey coming soon, Chris and I have started talking and planning for the future in case something ever happens to us. It's definitely not an easy subject to broach or one to talk about; but it is one that is necessary for all of us. We both have the pink donor mark on our driver's licenses and know that we want to be cremated or buried but there is so much more to talk about and plan for.

Some important things to discuss {about yourself and with those you love}:

• Who is going to care for your children if something happens to both you and your partner?
• What if you are in a coma? Is there a time frame that you want to remain in that state before your family decides that there is nothing further to be done?
• Do you want to donate your organs? What about your eyes, skin, and bones? Do you want your body to be donated to science?
• If you (or a parent) have a terminal illness and your heart stops, do you want CPR performed or will you have a DNR?
• If you are pregnant and something goes wrong where the doctor has to save you or the baby, how do you choose?
• If you have multiple siblings, who will be in charge of your parent's health care? Their finances? Will one of you be the decision maker or will the majority rule?
• Account numbers and passwords for banks, credit cards, safety deposit boxes, email, and any online accounts {or at least have them somewhere that can be found}
• Insurance information (life, home, auto, etc.)

I know that this is a hard topic to discuss and one of the hardest parts is just bringing it up! Think of how hard it will be if something happens and you have no clue what your family member wanted?

I found a document online (click HERE) that you can fill out and organize your wishes and the wishes of those you love; I have no connection to the document or anything, it was just one I found that seemed to be organized well.

Trust me, it won't be easy thinking about what you want or thinking that something unexpected will happen; but think of how much harder it will be when you are going through a huge emotional event and you have to make important decisions. You will be thankful that you have planned and can have something concrete in your hands to help you.

I hope this helps you get a discussion going with those you love and helps you start thinking about the what-ifs (no matter how unpleasant they may be). It's much better to be prepared!