Many of us make New Year's resolutions. The most common include losing weight, getting more exercise and reading more. All of these resolutions are intended to create a healthier, more knowledgeable future. My New Year's resolutions include all of the above and to blog more frequently so you can be more informed.

One way to take care of your family is by committing to prepare and estate plan. You may think nothing extraordinary happens to you, and so you do not need to plan. But I was pretty amazed by three startling events within two weeks in 2011 in Maryland: an earthquake, Hurricane Irene and the ghost of Hurricane Lee, which contributed to major flooding in Maryland. These events in rapid succession show how quickly our lives could change with little notice.

This year, I am committing my time and energy to updating my will, power of attorney, and advance health care directive. Isn't it ironic - here I am an attorney who focuses on estate planning for her clients and I need to do this just like everyone else. Fortunately, however, I do know that estate planning is easier than losing weight!