For any of you who read my columns on a regular basis, you know that one of my most favorite topics (because it is a popular one) is "Getting your affairs in order". For several years, I was part of a weekly radio show called "Healthy, Wealthy and Wise". Each week, three female professionals (one physician, one financial planner and one attorney) would gather with our friend and host, Kathy Kerestes to discuss topics important to women everywhere...our favorite being the one focusing on organizing our lives. Sometimes taking our show on the road, we would host afternoon teas to various ladies' groups...always meeting nice new people, enjoying ourselves and hopefully passing on pertinent information to our fellow women: professionals, stay at home moms, grandmas, single, divorced, widowed or married women.

I was the "wise" of the three. The "wealthy", ReShelle Barrett, Senior Vice President and financial advisor with Bill Few Associates and I have decided that it has been too long. We need to have a tea.

Our topic is the ever popular and useful "Getting your affairs in order". It will focus on the proper estate planning documents that you will need, mainly your Will, Power of Attorney and Living Will; ways to avoid guardianship, protect your assets and make sure that your wishes are carried out. It will focus on financial aspects as well. This includes figuring out where you are now and where you want to be, the basics of investing, common investment planning mistakes, and coordinating your financial plan with your estate plan.

The tea will be held at Trax Farms on Tuesday, October 17, 2006 (the height of the fall season at Trax Farms) from 2:00 4:00 p.m. As many of you know, Trax Farms is on Route 88 South in Finleyville, 12 miles south of Pittsburgh. While we will offer lovely refreshments, we will also provide important food for thought...things every woman needs to know: what documents do you really need and why? How do I ensure a comfortable retirement for myself? Ladies, consider this your invitation. Come to Trax Farms on Tuesday, October 17, 2006 at 2:00 p.m. and enjoy unlimited hot tea, savory tea sandwiches, breads, scones and a selection of desserts and fruit. ReShelle and I can enlighten you as you munch.

If you are interested in coming to our ladies' afternoon, please call me to confirm your reservation at (412) 391-6920 or email me at mcromer@gtnlaw.com.

I hope to see you there!