Hi Reader,

After her mother died, Heather Nickerson stood in a closet holding a Tiffany vase and cried.

She did not know what the vase meant. Was it a family treasure? Something her mom loved but was afraid to use? A gift from a relative her mom did not like? There was no way to know.

Heather had 6,000 square feet of her mother's things to sort. It took her almost two years.

This week, Heather joined me on Your Estate Matters. She now runs Artifcts, a private app that helps families save the stories behind their things. Here is what stayed with me.

1. A story changes what something is worth to your family. A china set for 12 is easy to give away. But if your kids know Grandma and Grandpa got it while living overseas in 1957, someone may want the teacups.
2. Write down what you want to happen. Heather's kids think a painting she loves is ugly. So she wrote down why it matters, who gets it, and what to do if they don't want it. Sell it at auction. Do not put it on the curb.
3. Start small. Pick one item a week. Use an app, a notebook, or a Google Doc. Just make sure your family knows where to find it.

​Listen to the full episode​

This one hit home for me. My great-grandfather wrote a book of his favourite quotes and the lessons he learned in life. I never met him. That book is one of the most precious things I own.

Your will decides who gets your things. It cannot tell them why those things mattered. That part is up to you.

If you are ready to start on your plan, join my online class, The 5 Biggest Estate Planning Mistakes Canadians Make. In about 40 minutes, I walk you through the mistakes I see most and the five stage System that helps you avoid them. You choose the time.

Registration is usually $19.97. For you, it is free. Use code FREECLASS when you register.

​Choose your class time​

Warmly,

Nicole
Founder, Canadian Estate Club
President, Heritage Trust Company Inc.

This email is for general educational and organizational purposes only. It is not legal, tax, financial, investment, insurance, or medical advice. Please consult qualified professional advisors about your own circumstances.