https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/what-is-needed-from-next-of-kin-for-burial-and-cremation-in-augusta-ga Families in Augusta, Georgia often ask what is required from the next of kin when planning burial or cremation arrangements. According to the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), written authorization from the legal next of kin is typically needed before any final arrangements can move forward. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <strong> Summary  </strong> </p> <p> <span> • The next of kin typically provides authorization for burial or cremation.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> • Funeral homes often need identification, vital information, and signed authorization forms.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> • Documentation needs may vary by state but generally include permit and death certificate details.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> • Funeral directors guide families through each step with clarity and compassion.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <strong> What Is Needed from Next of Kin for Burial and Cremation  </strong> </p> <p> <span> Families in Augusta, Georgia often ask what is required from the next of kin when planning burial or cremation arrangements. According to the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), written authorization from the legal next of kin is typically needed before any final arrangements can move forward.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) notes that this authorization supports transparency under the Funeral Rule. The next of kin—often a spouse, adult child, parent, or court‑appointed representative—usually holds the legal authority to approve funeral, burial, or cremation decisions.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <strong> Identification and Documentation Requirements  </strong> </p> <p> <span> The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlights the importance of accurate documentation when preparing a death certificate. Funeral homes commonly request the following details from the next of kin:  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> - A government‑issued photo ID for the next of kin.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> - Basic vital information about the deceased, including full name, date of birth, parents’ names, and Social Security number.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> - A signed authorization form for burial or cremation.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> - Details required to complete the official death certificate.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> These documents help ensure that arrangements meet legal requirements and reflect a family’s wishes.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <strong> Why Authorization Matters  </strong> </p> <p> <span> <span> Authorization helps ensure that all final arrangements follow legal guidelines and properly honor a family’s preferences. For </span> </span> <a href="https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/traditional-services" target="_blank"> burial </a> <span> <span> , families may need to complete a burial permit and confirm cemetery or vault selections. For </span> </span> <a href="https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/cremation-services" target="_blank"> cremation </a> <span> , a Cremation Authorization Form is typically required, and some areas may require a brief waiting period or medical examiner approval.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> Funeral professionals at Platt's Funeral Home &amp; Cremation Services guide families in Augusta, Georgia with compassion and clarity throughout every step of this process.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <strong> FAQs  </strong> </p> <p> <strong> Who is considered the next of kin? </strong> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> The next of kin is typically a spouse, adult child, parent, or legal representative with the authority to make funeral, burial, or cremation decisions.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <strong> What documents are needed before burial or cremation? </strong> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> Most funeral homes request a government‑issued ID, essential information for the death certificate, and a signed authorization form from the next of kin.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <strong> Do documentation requirements vary by state? </strong> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> Yes. Requirements often differ by region, so families should consult their funeral home for guidance specific to their area.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> Written for Platt's Funeral Home &amp; Cremation Services, proudly serving families in Augusta, Georgia with compassion and care.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <strong> About Platt's Funeral Home &amp; Cremation Services  </strong> </p> <p> <span> <span> Platt's Funeral Home &amp; Cremation Services is honored to support families throughout Augusta, Georgia. Their dedicated and compassionate staff provides steady guidance through each step of funeral and cremation planning. </span> </span> <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=platts+721+Crawford+Ave.%2C+Augusta%2C+GA+30904&amp;oq=platts+721+Crawford+Ave.%2C+Augusta%2C+GA+30904&amp;gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUyBggAEEUYOTIHCAEQIRigATIHCAIQIRirAjIHCAMQIRiPAjIHCAQQIRiPAtIBCDE5MTZqMGo3qAIAsAIA&amp;sourceid=chrome&amp;ie=UTF-8" target="_blank"> Located at 721 Crawford Ave, Augusta, GA 30904, families may reach them at 706-733-3636 </a> <span> <span> for caring assistance.  </span> </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/" target="_blank"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Fri, 10 Apr 2026 12:00:57 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/what-is-needed-from-next-of-kin-for-burial-and-cremation-in-augusta-ga thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/why-do-funeral-cremation-costs-vary-in-augusta-georgia Families in Augusta, Georgia, often notice that funeral and cremation costs vary from one funeral home to another. According to the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), these differences are influenced by location, facility offerings, and service options. All cost data and averages referenced are accurate as <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <strong> Summary  </strong> </p> <p> <span> • Funeral and cremation costs can vary significantly based on factors like location, facilities, and service options.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> • According to the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), median costs differ depending on service type and regional pricing.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> • The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) ensures transparency through the Funeral Rule, requiring clear price disclosures.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> • Families in Augusta, Georgia, can make informed decisions by reviewing price lists and planning ahead.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <strong> Why Do Funeral and Cremation Costs Vary?  </strong> </p> <p> <span> Families in Augusta, Georgia, often notice that funeral and cremation costs vary from one funeral home to another. According to the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), these differences are influenced by location, facility offerings, and service options. All cost data and averages referenced are accurate as of 2025.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> Funeral homes in urban areas, such as Augusta, may have higher operating expenses than those in rural communities. Costs may also vary based on staffing levels, building maintenance, and whether a funeral home operates its own crematory.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> <span> The type of service chosen can also influence total cost. </span> </span> <a href="https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/traditional-services" target="_blank"> Traditional funerals </a> <span> <span> with visitation, </span> </span> <a href="https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/cremation-services" target="_blank"> cremation </a> <span> <span> with a memorial service, and direct cremation all have unique requirements that affect pricing. Families may also choose to personalize a service with readings, music, or displays that honor their loved one’s life.  </span> </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> Transparency is another key factor. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) requires funeral homes to provide a General Price List (GPL) to ensure families understand available options and associated costs. This helps families compare providers and make decisions based on their needs and preferences.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> <span> Organizations such as the Cremation Association of North America (CANA) note that </span> </span> <a href="https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/plan-ahead" target="_blank"> planning ahead </a> <span> <span> can help families manage expenses more effectively. Preplanning allows individuals to outline their wishes and ease emotional and financial stress for loved ones in the future.  </span> </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <strong> Frequently Asked Questions  </strong> </p> <p> <strong> Why do prices differ so much between funeral homes? </strong> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> Funeral homes may have different overhead costs, facility amenities, and service offerings, which can influence pricing.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <strong> Does a higher price mean better service? </strong> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> Not necessarily. Service quality is influenced by professionalism, care, and personalization rather than cost alone.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <strong> How can families compare prices fairly? </strong> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> <span> Families can request a </span> </span> <a href="https://irp.cdn-website.com/f46f021c/files/uploaded/2025-General-Price-List-FINAL-10.8.pdf" target="_blank"> General Price List (GPL) </a> <span> <span> from multiple funeral homes, as required by the FTC, to ensure transparent comparisons.  </span> </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> Written for Platt’s Funeral Home &amp; Cremation Services, proudly serving families in Augusta with compassion and care.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <strong> About Platt’s Funeral Home &amp; Cremation Services  </strong> </p> <p> <span> <span> Families in Augusta, Georgia, can turn to Platt’s Funeral Home &amp; Cremation Services for caring and professional guidance when planning ahead. </span> </span> <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=platts+721+Crawford+Ave.%2C+Augusta%2C+GA+30904&amp;oq=platts+721+Crawford+Ave.%2C+Augusta%2C+GA+30904&amp;gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUyBggAEEUYOTIHCAEQIRigATIHCAIQIRirAjIHCAMQIRiPAjIHCAQQIRiPAtIBCDE5MTZqMGo3qAIAsAIA&amp;sourceid=chrome&amp;ie=UTF-8" target="_blank"> Located at 721 Crawford Ave., Augusta, GA 30904, their dedicated staff can be reached at (706) 733-3636 </a> <span> <span> to answer questions about funeral preplanning and options.  </span> </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/" target="_blank"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Fri, 06 Mar 2026 13:00:45 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/why-do-funeral-cremation-costs-vary-in-augusta-georgia thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/how-much-does-cremation-cost-in-augusta-georgia Families in Augusta, Georgia, often ask what influences the cost of cremation. According to the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), the median cost of a funeral with cremation is about $6,280, while a direct cremation typically ranges between $2,800 and $3,000. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <strong> Summary  </strong> </p> <p> <span> • The median cost of a funeral with cremation is approximately $6,280, according to the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA).  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> • Direct cremation, which excludes a service, generally ranges between $2,800 and $3,000.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> • Factors such as service type, merchandise, and location influence total cremation costs.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> • Planning ahead can help families manage costs and make informed decisions.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <strong> How Much Does Cremation Cost?  </strong> </p> <p> <span> Families in Augusta, Georgia, often ask what influences the cost of cremation. According to the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), the median cost of a funeral with cremation is about $6,280, while a direct cremation typically ranges between $2,800 and $3,000. These national averages, accurate as of 2025, provide a general understanding of what families can expect.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <a href="https://irp.cdn-website.com/f46f021c/files/uploaded/2025-General-Price-List-FINAL-10.8.pdf" target="_blank"> Cremation costs </a> <span> <span> may vary depending on several factors, including the type of service chosen, professional fees, and local market conditions. A cremation that includes a memorial service or viewing may involve additional costs for facilities, staff, and preparation. Direct cremation, on the other hand, is often the most affordable option since it does not include a ceremony or viewing.  </span> </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> Typical cremation costs often include the basic professional services of the funeral director and staff, the cremation process itself, and assistance with necessary paperwork or permits. Families may also choose an urn or keepsake that reflects their loved one’s wishes. Prices can vary between providers depending on the level of service, personalization, and available facilities.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/plan-ahead" target="_blank"> Planning ahead </a> <span> <span> for cremation can help families feel more at ease and ensure that final wishes are honored. Preplanning also allows individuals to lock in today’s prices and minimize future financial stress for loved ones.  </span> </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <strong> Frequently Asked Questions  </strong> </p> <p> <strong> What is included in the cost of cremation? </strong> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> Cremation costs typically include the professional services of the funeral director and staff, the cremation itself, and basic paperwork or permits.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <strong> Is cremation more affordable than burial? </strong> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/cremation-services" target="_blank"> Cremation </a> <span> <span> is often more affordable than burial because it may not require a casket, cemetery plot, or vault. However, the total cost depends on the chosen services.  </span> </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <strong> Can families still have a service with cremation? </strong> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> Yes. Many families choose to hold a memorial or celebration of life either before or after the cremation, allowing loved ones to gather and honor their loved one’s memory.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> Written for Platt’s Funeral Home &amp; Cremation Services, proudly serving families in Augusta with compassion and care.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <strong> About Platt’s Funeral Home &amp; Cremation Services  </strong> </p> <p> <span> <span> Families in Augusta, Georgia, can turn to Platt’s Funeral Home &amp; Cremation Services for caring and professional guidance when planning ahead. </span> </span> <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=platts+721+Crawford+Ave.%2C+Augusta%2C+GA+30904&amp;oq=platts+721+Crawford+Ave.%2C+Augusta%2C+GA+30904&amp;gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUyBggAEEUYOTIHCAEQIRigATIHCAIQIRirAjIHCAMQIRiPAjIHCAQQIRiPAtIBCDE5MTZqMGo3qAIAsAIA&amp;sourceid=chrome&amp;ie=UTF-8" target="_blank"> Located at 721 Crawford Ave, Augusta, GA 30904 </a> <span> , their dedicated staff can be reached at (706) 733-3636 to answer questions about funeral preplanning and options.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/" target="_blank"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Fri, 06 Feb 2026 13:00:50 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/how-much-does-cremation-cost-in-augusta-georgia thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/how-much-does-a-funeral-cost-in-augusta-georgia Families in Augusta, Georgia, often wonder how much a funeral costs and why prices can differ from one provider to another. According to the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), the median cost of a funeral with viewing and burial in the United States is approximately $8,300. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <strong> Summary  </strong> </p> <p> <span> • The median cost of a funeral with viewing and burial in the U.S. is $8,300, according to the NFDA (2024).  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> • A funeral with cremation typically averages around $6,280 nationally.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> • Funeral costs may vary based on service type, merchandise, and regional factors.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> • Families in Augusta can benefit from planning ahead and understanding what is included in these costs.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <strong> How Much Does a Funeral Cost?  </strong> </p> <p> <span> Families in Augusta, Georgia, often wonder how much a funeral costs and why prices can differ from one provider to another. According to the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), the median cost of a funeral with viewing and burial in the United States is approximately $8,300. For those who choose cremation, the median cost is around $6,280. These figures are based on the NFDA’s 2024 General Price List Study and are accurate as of 2025.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> It’s important to note that these averages typically do not include cemetery-related costs such as headstones, grave liners, or burial plots. Funeral expenses often vary due to factors like location, facilities, staffing, and the type of service a family chooses. Urban areas may have higher facility and transportation costs compared to smaller communities.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> A funeral’s total cost often includes several components, such as professional services of the funeral director and staff, use of the facilities for visitation or ceremony, transportation, and care of the deceased. Families may also select merchandise, such as caskets or urns, that reflect their loved one’s preferences. Each of these elements contributes to the overall cost.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> <span> According to the NFDA and guidance from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), funeral homes are required to provide families with a </span> </span> <a href="https://irp.cdn-website.com/f46f021c/files/uploaded/2025-General-Price-List-FINAL-10.8.pdf" target="_blank"> General Price List (GPL) </a> <span> . This ensures transparency and allows families to review pricing and service details before making decisions.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> Planning ahead can make a meaningful difference. Prearranging funeral services helps ensure that personal wishes are honored while protecting loved ones from unexpected expenses. For families in Augusta, understanding average funeral costs is an important first step toward making informed, compassionate decisions.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <strong> Frequently Asked Questions  </strong> </p> <p> <strong> What does the average funeral cost include? </strong> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> The average funeral cost typically includes professional services, use of the funeral home facilities, care of the deceased, transportation, and a casket or urn. Cemetery or memorial costs are usually additional.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <strong> Why do funeral prices vary between providers? </strong> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> Funeral costs can vary due to location, facility quality, and the level of personalization chosen. Each funeral home sets its prices based on its services and local operating expenses.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <strong> Can planning ahead help reduce costs? </strong> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> <span> Yes. </span> </span> <a href="https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/plan-ahead" target="_blank"> Preplanning </a> <span> <span> allows families to make informed decisions, compare pricing, and ensure their wishes are clearly communicated while locking in current pricing options.  </span> </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> Written for Platt’s Funeral Home &amp; Cremation Services, proudly serving families in Augusta with compassion and care.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <strong> About Platt’s Funeral Home &amp; Cremation Services  </strong> </p> <p> <span> <span> Families in Augusta, Georgia, can turn to Platt’s Funeral Home &amp; Cremation Services for caring and professional guidance when planning ahead. </span> </span> <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=platts+721+Crawford+Ave.%2C+Augusta%2C+GA+30904&amp;oq=platts+721+Crawford+Ave.%2C+Augusta%2C+GA+30904&amp;gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUyBggAEEUYOTIHCAEQIRigATIHCAIQIRirAjIHCAMQIRiPAjIHCAQQIRiPAtIBCDE5MTZqMGo3qAIAsAIA&amp;sourceid=chrome&amp;ie=UTF-8" target="_blank"> Located at 721 Crawford Ave., Augusta, GA 30904, their dedicated staff can be reached at (706) 733-3636 </a> <span> <span> to answer questions about funeral and cremation options.  </span> </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/" target="_blank"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Fri, 09 Jan 2026 13:00:47 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/how-much-does-a-funeral-cost-in-augusta-georgia thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/thinking-no-funeral-think-again Maybe you’ve said it, or thought it? “I don’t need a funeral. You can just bury me in the backyard”. That’s the male version of negating the need for a funeral. But the sentiment is not unique to men. Women just say it differently. “I don’t want you to make a fuss. I don’t need a funeral.” These folks are right. The person who died doesn’t need a funeral. They just need a legal, respectful disposal of their body. It’s the people who are left to do the work of grieving that need the support and community from a funeral. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> Maybe you’ve said it, or thought it? “I don’t need a funeral. You can just bury me in the backyard”. That’s the male version of negating the need for a funeral. But the sentiment is not unique to men. Women just say it differently. “I don’t want you to make a fuss. I don’t need a funeral.” These folks are right. The person who died doesn’t need a funeral. They just need a legal, respectful disposal of their body. It’s the people who are left to do the work of grieving that need the support and community from a funeral. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> Princess Diana, Michael Jackson, Aretha Franklin, John McCain, and most recently Kobe Bryant, didn’t need the memorials, teddy bears, or flowers. We needed them. We need to be a part of acknowledging the loss. We find comfort in being able to be a part of the service that honors their lives even when our part is just being an observer via television. We are comforted, in some measure, just by being able to observe. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> It is human nature to seek community in times of trouble and in times of joy. People are pack animals. We don’t live in isolation. We touch the lives of others. We celebrate birth with family and friends. We celebrate the coming together of two people in marriage as a group. We hold each other’s hand in times of tragedy. When we express our caring feelings, it is not weakness. It’s our strength. We are human beings, we care. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> Having the opportunity to express our feelings is not expected to “cure” our grief. Coming together does not provide closure. The door never really closes on the love one human being has for another. Coming together, expressing our feelings in the presence of our community, are steps in the healing process. Being able to express our feelings in a safe, accepting environment provides some measure of healing. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> Grief in the early days is raw. As time passes it softens. The hard edges become rounded and we begin to find the joy we had with the one we loved in our memories. Grief is hard work. It’s a journey. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> Why should anyone have to begin this journey alone? </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/" target="_blank"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Tue, 11 Feb 2025 21:31:24 GMT handerson@plattsfuneralhome.com (Platt's Funeral Home Admin) https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/thinking-no-funeral-think-again thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/moving-on-with-life-after-the-death-of-a-loved-one Moving on is not the same as forgetting. Moving on after the death of a loved one, especially a spouse, just means actively engaging in life. It means reaching a point where the mourner has things to look forward to again. J. William Worden, PhD tells us the fourth task mourners must accomplish as they move through grief is to “find an enduring connection with the deceased while moving on with life.” <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> Moving on is not the same as forgetting. Moving on after the death of a loved one, especially a spouse, just means actively engaging in life. It means reaching a point where the mourner has things to look forward to again. J. William Worden, PhD tells us the fourth task mourners must accomplish as they move through grief is to “find an enduring connection with the deceased while moving on with life.” </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> In Worden’s model, moving on is described as a task rather than a stage. That’s an important distinction and implies active engagement on the part of the mourner. It gives the survivor some control and responsibility for the direction of their life moving forward. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> The more closely entwined the mourner’s life was to the life of the deceased the harder it will be to “move on with life.” When a person’s life has been moving along in lock step with a spouse or partner for the better part of his or her adult life, the adjustment can be very difficult. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Some mourners will decide to move on with life as a single. That will mean changing plans. The trips or activities a couple planned to do together will now need to be undertaken alone, with a friend, or abandoned and changed entirely. An open mind and willingness to stretch one’s comfort zone can bring new opportunities. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> When one door closes another door opens. Painful as it is to lose a spouse, it is possible to find yourself with time to engage in hobbies or interests that had be put on the shelf because they were not enjoyed by a partner.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Some mourners will partner up again with someone new. With that method of moving on comes the task of overcoming fear and putting oneself out there … dating. It may mean working with other family members to gain acceptance of the new person in one’s life. It will most certainly mean adjusting to new expectations, personalities, and habits.   A new spouse will never be just like the one who died. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Whatever the path a widow or widower takes new skills will need to be learned, new things will need to be tried, and adjustments made. It takes work. But then isn’t that just a part of life? </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/" target="_blank"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Thu, 09 Jan 2025 20:17:19 GMT handerson@plattsfuneralhome.com (Platt's Funeral Home Admin) https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/moving-on-with-life-after-the-death-of-a-loved-one thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/holiday-conversations Lots of folks will have the opportunity to sit down and talk with their parents, siblings or children over the next few weeks. For some, the holidays may be the only time during the year has at least one hot topic it’s best to avoid. But there is one subject that should be tackled, even if it seems hard, while everyone is together. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> Lots of folks will have the opportunity to sit down and talk with their parents, siblings or children over the next few weeks. For some, the holidays may be the only time during the year has at least one hot topic it’s best to avoid. But there is one subject that should be tackled, even if it seems hard, while everyone is together.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> <span> It’s not the birds and bees talk. It’s the final wishes talk. Has the burial or cremation question been answered? Does everyone know about funeral preferences? Open casket or closed casket, religious or not, what do your parents want their closing ceremony to look, sound, and feel like?  </span> </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> How in the world does one approach this subject? Probably not at the dinner table or while opening the gifts or after too many egg nogs. Find a quiet time. Maybe over a cup of coffee in the morning or on a walk after dinner. Consider putting a frame around the questions that establishes why it’s important to you, to know.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Something like this, “I love this family. It’s always so great when we get together. You know I think about all of you even when I am not here. Sometimes I worry about how we will all handle the tough times when they come. What happens if one of us is sick or dies. It would help me if I knew what you would want us to do if you were sick or if we needed to put together a funeral.  Can you help me?”  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> It’s a tough conversation to have. But it was also hard for your parents to talk to you about birth control and drugs. Still, those were important conversations and they helped. This one will help as well. Getting started is the hardest part. The reward might be holding your family together through what is always one of the toughest times for any family. When a parent dies.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/" target="_blank"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Thu, 05 Dec 2024 19:55:54 GMT handerson@plattsfuneralhome.com (Platt's Funeral Home Admin) https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/holiday-conversations thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/how-to-thank-a-veteran Three hundred and sixty five days a year, twenty-four hours a day, rain or shine, hot or cold, from the year 1776 to present day, they’re serving our country. They are our veterans and November 11th is the official day that we honor and thank them each year. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> <span> Three hundred and sixty five days a year, twenty-four hours a day, rain or shine, hot or cold, from the year 1776 to present day, they’re serving our country.  They are our veterans and November 11th is the official day that we honor and thank them each year.    </span> </span> </p> <p> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> <span> <span> So what can you do to show your appreciation?  Here are a few ideas:  </span> </span> </p> <p> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <ul> <li> <span> <span> Attend a parade or remembrance event held in your community  </span> </span> </li> <li> <span> <span> Brush up on your patriotic etiquette  </span> </span> </li> <li> <span> <span> Teach your children things such as when to stand for the American flag or what to do during the playing of our National Anthem  </span> </span> </li> <li> <span> <span> Visit the gravesite of a veteran  </span> </span> </li> <li> <span> <span> Hang a flag in your yard  </span> </span> </li> <li> <span> <span> Support a veteran-owned business  </span> </span> </li> <li> <span> <span> Hire a veteran or the spouse of a veteran  </span> </span> </li> <li> <span> <span> Visit a veterans hospital  </span> </span> </li> <li> <span> <span> Say thank you to a veteran and his or her family  </span> </span> </li> </ul> <p> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> <span> <span> Did you know you can even hold a “Care Package Party”? Here’s how:  </span> </span> </p> <ul> <li> <span> <span> Invite friends to bring items for those serving away from home.    </span> </span> </li> <li> <span> <span> You can contact the US Post Office for help with packaging supplies for military care packages.  Some items you could send:  </span> </span> </li> </ul> <ol> <li> <span> <span> Foot care products  </span> </span> </li> <li> <span> <span> Cotton socks  </span> </span> </li> <li> <span> <span> Flavorings for water  </span> </span> </li> <li> <span> <span> iTunes gift card  </span> </span> </li> <li> <span> <span> Snacks  </span> </span> </li> <li> <span> <span> Hand written notes expressing your thanks  </span> </span> </li> </ol> <p> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> <span> Everyone is busy and on Veteran’s Day we’ll be inundated with advertising. It will be easy to see November 11th just as another great sale day…but it is so much more. Perhaps the most important thing you could do is ask a veteran you know to tell you about their experience and then listen. Just really listen.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/" target="_blank"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Thu, 05 Dec 2024 19:53:44 GMT handerson@plattsfuneralhome.com (Platt's Funeral Home Admin) https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/how-to-thank-a-veteran thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/every-day-is-full-of-moments-moments-charged-with-opportunity Grief and loss are difficult. Caregiving can feel thankless. Still, every single day comes with many little moments that can lighten the load. They are there. However, you have to be open and make the effort to see the opportunity. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> You are probably familiar with the iconic National Geographic photo of a grizzly bear just about to close his jaw on a salmon that is literally jumping into his mouth. That photo, taken by Joel Sartore in 1999, speaks to us because it perfectly captures a singular moment of opportunity. An opportunistic moment is something a whole lot of folks are hoping will come their way. They are waiting for their moment.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Do you think Joel, or the bear for that matter, waited for that moment? How many fish do you suppose the bear missed before he caught that one? How many fish did he catch before or after in a much less choregraphed (perhaps even awkward) manner? Do you suppose that was Joel’s only shot of the day or do you imagine he took lots and lots of shots before luck and skill came together and he captured that one?  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Here’s the thing, it’s easy to miss a million little moments of opportunity when you are waiting for the perfect big opportunity. This pattern of waiting is especially easy to fall into when you are grieving or are overwhelmed with care giving. The sad thing is that just when a person would benefit the most from little shining moments, those moments pass by unnoticed.    </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> So, open your eyes and look. When your caregiving duties have you up in the night just take a moment to look at the night sky. When you are out shopping at the food store or picking up something at the pharmacy, speak to the checkout person. See if you can make them smile. Nothing warms the heart like making another person smile.    </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Grief and loss are difficult. Caregiving can feel thankless. Still, every single day comes with many little moments that can lighten the load. They are there. However, you have to be open and make the effort to see the opportunity.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/" target="_blank"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Thu, 05 Dec 2024 19:50:35 GMT handerson@plattsfuneralhome.com (Platt's Funeral Home Admin) https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/every-day-is-full-of-moments-moments-charged-with-opportunity thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/cremation-society-or-funeral-home Cremation, like electric cars and cell phones is here to stay. For some people cremation is part of their religious practice. For other people, cremation just feels right for them. The big question is who should help you with your cremation, a society or a funeral director? <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> Cremation, like electric cars and cell phones is here to stay. For some people cremation is part of their religious practice. For other people, cremation just feels right for them.  The big question is who should help you with your cremation, a society or a funeral director?  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Cremation Societies specialize in what is called a direct cremation. Direct cremation means the society will remove the deceased from the place of death and take the body directly to their crematory where the cremation process will take place. Following cremation, the ashes are returned to the family in a bag or box. It’s all pretty quick. The cost is quite low for direct cremation.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> But something is missing.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> How do we feel when a family member dies? What helps? Death is a loss. It is hard to describe how loss feels, but it is something like a void, a vacuum, or an energy shift.  You see something close when you watch victims of the California wild fires or a tornado on television. You see that dazed and stunned look on their faces. That is loss.  There they stand looking at a pile of rubble that was their home … and now it is gone.  That look is about loss of a building. Loss of a person, someone you love, is so much more. It hurts your heart.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Funeral directors are trained and specialize in taking care of the deceased AND in taking care of the family of the deceased. They know people need more. They are going to encourage you to slow down a little and give the family a little time for the reality of the loss to sink in. Give a little time for the family to consider what they need to do to begin to heal.    </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Funeral directors specialize in helping families put together a gathering to honor the one who died. They know that being with those you love and who love you helps. They know words, as a part of a religious, spiritual, or life celebration ceremony help. Funerals are the funeral director’s specialty. They have done this many times with many families.  Funeral directors are the experts.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Of course, the funeral home will help you with a direct cremation if that is what your family prefers. To be fair, cremation societies will also add on some service options at the family’s request. As you add services the cost increases. It is important to look for value.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> The funeral home is staffed by licensed trained funeral directors and serves families from a clean, company ready facility with plenty of parking and is a good value. Do your homework. Where will cremation take place? If your family wants service where will the service take place? If you add service and products what is the difference in price?  How important is cost over expertise? Share your budget with the funeral director at your funeral home. Don’t assume you need to sacrifice ceremony for savings.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/" target="_blank"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Thu, 05 Dec 2024 19:48:05 GMT handerson@plattsfuneralhome.com (Platt's Funeral Home Admin) https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/cremation-society-or-funeral-home thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/normandys-hallowed-ground The Normandy American Cemetery is the resting place for 9,387 Americans, most of whom gave their lives during the landing operations and in the establishment of the beachhead. The headstones are of white Italian marble adorned with a Star of David for those of Jewish faith and a Latin Cross for all others. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> Every year on June 6, we recognize the anniversary of the Normandy Invasion during World War II. The invasion by the Allied Forces established a foothold on the shores of France; and was the start of the Allied advance into the interior which eventually lead to victory in Europe and liberty for the millions of people living under the tyranny of Adolf Hitler. The costly battle was the most important allied victory in the second world war.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> The campaign began on June 6 and ended on June 30. During that period 425,000 Allied and German troops were killed, wounded, or went missing. Many are buried in the 27 war cemeteries, ranging in size from 30 graves to 20,000, in Normandy.   </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> <span> The Normandy American Cemetery is the resting place for 9,387 Americans, most of whom gave their lives during the landing operations and in the establishment of the beachhead. The headstones are of white Italian marble adorned with a Star of David for those of Jewish faith and a Latin Cross for all others. The permanent cemetery is located on land France granted to the United States in perpetuity.  </span> </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> For those fortunate enough to visit the burial grounds, the experience is singular.  Approaching alone or with a group the mood changes. Breathing slows, the chatter quiets, tones are hushed. The feeling is somber. It draws you in.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> And then, there it is, pristine lush green lawn dotted by thousands of white markers in perfect formation overlooking the very beaches where those buried here fought and died.  </span> </p> <p> <span>     </span> </p> <p> <span> <span> Visitors are, at first, overwhelmed by the sheer number of markers. But as you get closer and begin to read the engravings, the reality of the cost of war begins to sink in.  So many died, they were so very young, and all lost in such a short span of time.  </span> </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> <span> All those lives ended before they ever really began. So many who would never find their true love, hold a new born child of their own, or buy a home. So many who never got to experience all the post war changes the rest of us take for granted. Those buried here did not live to see air travel become commonplace, a man land on the moon or watch a color television.  </span> </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> They were heroic and their sacrifice was great. We must never forget.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> The anniversary is an opportunity to honor those lost. It is also an opportunity celebrate peace and reconciliation. In our mindfulness we become aware of the fragility of peace and the pain of war. It is that mindfulness that makes us better people.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> In the words of the late John Lennon…  </span> </p> <p> <span> Imagine all the people </span> <span>   </span> <span> <br/> Living life in peace  </span> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> You may say that I'm a dreamer </span> <span>   </span> <span> <br/> But I'm not the only one </span> <span>   </span> <span> <br/> I hope someday you'll join us </span> <span>   </span> <span> <br/> And the world will be as one </span> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/" target="_blank"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Thu, 05 Dec 2024 19:44:43 GMT handerson@plattsfuneralhome.com (Platt's Funeral Home Admin) https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/normandys-hallowed-ground thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/flowers-and-funerals What’s the story behind flowers at a funeral? Well, back in the day before funeral directors perfected the art and science of embalming, flowers were used to mask the odor of the body. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> <span> What’s the story behind flowers at a funeral? Well, back in the day before funeral directors perfected the art and science of embalming, flowers were used to mask the odor of the body.  </span> </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> In modern times flowers are no longer needed to mask unpleasant odors but they have come to be a part of the funeral for other reasons. When we struggle to find words to comfort a friend, flowers speak eloquently for us. They express that we care. Flowers can be sent from any place in the world to any place in the world. When we are not able to go to the service, flowers stand in our stead. Flowers are always in good taste and they are appreciated for the beauty and serenity they bring to the occasion.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Did you know different flower colors have different meanings? White flowers symbolize honor and innocence. In many religions, death means going to heaven and a return to innocence. White lilies, carnations, roses, and cushion poms are often used in funeral arrangements.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Red flowers are frequently given by a spouse or close family member. Red blooms symbolize courage, strength, and love. The red tulip is a symbol of perfect love. Blue flowers such as hydrangea and cornflowers represent peace and serenity. Yellow flowers symbolize friendship and new beginnings.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Flowers for the casket are usually provided by close family members. Funeral flowers are sent directly to the funeral home and are not usually addressed to a particular family member, but rather are sent in honor of the deceased. It is appropriate to send smaller cut flowers or plants of remembrance to individual family members at their home.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> <span> Flowers help us communicate feelings of the heart. Flowers speak for us and say we love you, we support you, we are proud of you, and we are with you on your grief journey.  </span> </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> In recorded time, and probably before, communities have understood the importance of gathering following a death. Paying respects to the deceased and comforting the survivors has been a part of life. Coming together when an important life event occurs is just natural. We come to see the new baby and we gather when a loved one’s life on this earth ends. We celebrate and remember with flowers.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/" target="_blank"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Thu, 05 Dec 2024 19:42:25 GMT handerson@plattsfuneralhome.com (Platt's Funeral Home Admin) https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/flowers-and-funerals thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/celebrating-grads-and-grands Millions of high school students across the nation will graduate this year. There will be parties, balloons, cakes and speeches. Many of these young people will receive the gift of a wonderful little book written at 87 years of age by Dr. Seuss. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> Millions of high school students across the nation will graduate this year. There will be parties, balloons, cakes and speeches. Many of these young people will receive the gift of a wonderful little book written at 87 years of age by Dr. Seuss.    </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <strong> Oh, the Places You’ll Go! </strong> <span> <span> was the last book to be published during Seuss’s lifetime. It’s about the journey of life and its challenges. It’s inspiring and makes a terrific graduation gift and is sure to be appreciated by any graduating senior…especially when a check, gift card, or tickets to Europe are stuck inside.    </span> </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> But what about the other end of life. Shouldn’t there be another book… Oh, the Places You Have Been? Why, do people feel diminished as they age? Why are we taking less and less time to wrap up a life and tie it with a pretty ribbon? Why do we say, “No fuss needed for me, no funeral needed.”? Surely six, seven, or even nine decades of life are worth celebrating.    </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> At the end of every life shouldn’t there be a look back? What about the choices that were made, the work that was done, the people encountered, the things that were learned? What about all that? Shouldn’t just sticking with it through all the ups and the downs of life merit a celebration of some kind? As Seuss advises, “With brains in your head and shoes full of feet, you can steer yourself in any direction you choose.”  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> There have to be stories. This is the generation that began with a party line telephone and is ending up with telephone watches that take pictures and tell you how many steps you’ve taken in a day! There have to be stories. These people served in Vietnam, listened to the Beatles, watched a man land on the moon. They had black and white TV that only sent a signal a few hours a day and they walked to the TV to change channels! There have to be stories.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> <span> Now is the time. Capture those stories. Ask your parent(s) about their life before you. Ask the same of grandparents. Ask about their hopes and dreams. What surprised them? What was fun and what was hard? Capture the stories and the life lessons. Prepare to celebrate the grands as well as the grads.  </span> </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/" target="_blank"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Thu, 05 Dec 2024 19:40:14 GMT handerson@plattsfuneralhome.com (Platt's Funeral Home Admin) https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/celebrating-grads-and-grands thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/honoring-military-service Taps. There is nothing like the sound of those patriotic notes. It grabs your heart, it makes you cry. It honors the service and risk a man or woman took for our safety and the safety of our country. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> Taps. There is nothing like the sound of those patriotic notes. It grabs your heart, it makes you cry. It honors the service and risk a man or woman took for our safety and the safety of our country.    </span> </p> <p> <span>    </span> </p> <p> <span> Public law provides military burial benefits for all who served and were honorably discharged from any of the five branches of the U.S. Military. Your funeral director or advance funeral planner can explain all of the benefits you or your family members are eligible to receive. They will also access those benefits related to the funeral or burial on your behalf. Your funeral director can help you weave the remembrance of your loved one’s military service into the fabric of their full life experience.    </span> </p> <p> <span>    </span> </p> <p> <span> Most who have served in any of the branches of our military, whether it be for a few years or as a career, will tell you the experience had a profound impact on their life.  Even when the service period was brief and at a tender age and followed by many years of some other vocation, that service should be honored.     </span> </p> <p> <span>    </span> </p> <p> <span> The funeral professionals at your local funeral home have the resources and know how to help you get the remembrance just right. In addition to the playing of taps and flag ceremony provided by public law, there are caskets, vaults, and urns that highlight each branch of the armed services to be considered. Photos and music can also be a part of the funeral gathering or ceremony and can add so much to the remembrance.     </span> </p> <p> <span>    </span> </p> <p> <span> How much or how little your family wishes to focus on the military service of a loved one is a matter of personal choice. With the assistance of your funeral director, a military service can be planned that finds the perfect balance for your family.   </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/" target="_blank"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Thu, 05 Dec 2024 19:37:50 GMT handerson@plattsfuneralhome.com (Platt's Funeral Home Admin) https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/honoring-military-service thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/death-and-taxes Death and taxes (seemingly unlikely bed fellows at first glance) are often linked together because they have long been considered unavoidable life events. Some even say they are the only two things that are certain in life. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> <span> Death and taxes (seemingly unlikely bed fellows at first glance) are often linked together because they have long been considered unavoidable life events. Some even say they are the </span> </span> <span> only </span> <span> <span> two things that are certain in life. Neither is something people typically look forward to, but they are both events that are anticipated and can be prepared for in advance.    </span> </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> This is the time of year when folks hope they have prepared well for their taxes. Most people prefer to get a tax refund rather than a tax bill. They hope the calculations have been made correctly and the payments made throughout the year will be enough to offset the sting of a big tax bill come April 15th.    </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Hmmm… come to think about it, most folks don’t typically look forward to a big funeral bill at the end of their life either. Few want to leave their family responsible for funeral costs. However, many people don’t plan to offset that expense like they do their taxes.    </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Even though most people, 62.5 percent according to the National Funeral Directors Association’s (NFDA) annual Consumer Awareness and Preferences Study, think it’s important to plan in advance. Only a small percentage (21.4 percent) actually act on their good intentions. Why? They have the perception that prepaying is too costly.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> <span> Most people are unaware that prepaying does not mean you must pay in one single payment. Many funeral homes offer specialized programs that allow funerals to be paid in advance, just like taxes, in small, easily-digested bites. Payments can be made on a variety of schedules allowing the consumer the opportunity to choose how long to stretch out payments and how often to make those payments. Individuals can even choose to make one payment per year!  That means a person could choose to put their tax refund toward their funeral.  Taxes could pay for death!  </span> </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> What about that roughly one quarter of people who do go beyond thinking they should make a funeral plan and actually make one? How do they feel once they have their plan in place? Ahh, they feel good. Funeral planners often say they see shoulders go down, hear audible sighs of relief and get hugs at the conclusion of a planning session. It’s like cleaning out the junk drawer: something most folks put off, but when they dig in and get it done, it feels so good they just keep going back to sneak a peek at that drawer all in order.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/" target="_blank"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Thu, 05 Dec 2024 19:35:35 GMT handerson@plattsfuneralhome.com (Platt's Funeral Home Admin) https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/death-and-taxes thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/until-death-do-us-part-losing-a-spouse-three-to-six-months-after-loss By now most of the big stuff is probably done. The thank you notes have been written and mailed. The marker or head stone has been placed or you’ve found a place for the urn. You’ve probably filed for the life insurance, and perhaps you’ve even begun to clean out his closet. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> By now most of the big stuff is probably done. The thank you notes have been written and mailed. The marker or head stone has been placed or you’ve found a place for the urn. You’ve probably filed for the life insurance, and perhaps you’ve even begun to clean out his closet.     </span> </p> <p> <span>    </span> </p> <p> <span> You may be wondering, what have I missed?   </span> </p> <p> <span>    </span> </p> <ul> <li> <span> Have you changed the titles to the car?   </span> </li> <li> <span> Put the deed to the home in your name?   </span> </li> <li> <span> Have you changed the utilities and cable service into your name?   </span> </li> <li> <span> Is your medical power of attorney up to date?   </span> </li> <li> <span> Have you updated your estate plan or will?   </span> </li> <li> <span> Have you spoken to an accountant or tax expert about any tax consequences associated with gifts you have made or increased allocations from IRA or investments?   </span> </li> </ul> <p> <span>    </span> </p> <p> <span> How about you? What are you doing to take care of you?   </span> </p> <p> <span>    </span> </p> <ul> <li> <span> Are you up-to-date with your health and dental care?   </span> </li> <li> <span> Are you eating well?   </span> </li> <li> <span> Are you learning to cook or have you gotten someone to mow the lawn?   </span> </li> <li> <span> Have you had lunch or dinner with a friend?   </span> </li> <li> <span> Have you done something fun? A movie? Golf? A ballgame?   </span> </li> </ul> <p> <span>    </span> </p> <p> <span> Scientists tell us there is a hand/mind connection. Doing things with our hands actually increases our sense of well-being. Even simple chores such as washing the dishes, preparing your meal, or even making your bed help to provide purpose and a natural routine. Why not step outside of your box and try something creative that you used to enjoy doing or have thought about trying? Don’t discount the value of a craft, woodworking or art project.   </span> </p> <p> <span>    </span> </p> <p> <span> Finally, see people. Human contact is vital to your new normal. If your friends and family aren’t calling you, then call them. Look for a movie you would like to see, a museum you would like to visit, or a restaurant you would like to try and ask someone to join you.      </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/" target="_blank"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Thu, 05 Dec 2024 19:32:10 GMT handerson@plattsfuneralhome.com (Platt's Funeral Home Admin) https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/until-death-do-us-part-losing-a-spouse-three-to-six-months-after-loss thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/thinking-about-skipping-the-funeral Are you considering going to a funeral? Will you be a guest or, are you the survivor in charge and deciding if there will even be a funeral? Either way, before you just skip the funeral perhaps you should consider how elephants behave when one of their species dies. Perhaps we have something to learn from Dumbo. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> Are you considering going to a funeral? Will you be a guest or, are you the survivor in charge and deciding if there will even be a funeral? Either way, before you just skip the funeral perhaps you should consider how elephants behave when one of their species dies. Perhaps we have something to learn from  </span> <span> Dumbo. </span> <span>     </span> </p> <p> <span>    </span> </p> <p> <span> First of all, elephants are very busy mammals. Just like us, they have to work hard to keep life together. An elephant needs to spend nearly 20 hours per day looking for and eating food. However, they do take time to honor their dead. It is rare to see an elephant in the wild stand still. However, when they happen upon the remains of an elephant, they seem to understand they need to stop and take a minute to pay homage.     </span> </p> <p> <span>    </span> </p> <p> <span> Elephants have a natural curiosity about death. They seem to understand that somehow death is connected to their own existence. They use their trunks to fondle the bones of the deceased. They are still and strangely quiet. They raise one foot and paw the air, they are gentle, and they shed tears.    </span> </p> <p> <span>    </span> </p> <p> <span> Elephants, like humans, have very strong social bonds. They help one another. A funeral is an opportunity for people to gather and be still. It is our opportunity to pay homage to our human existence. It’s a safe place to shed a tear, give a hug, or tell a story. A funeral, in any one of many forms, is an opportunity to reach out to our fellow man and give or receive help and comfort.   </span> </p> <p> <span>    </span> </p> <p> <span> There is still a lot of debate regarding whether or not elephants feel emotion. Some think yes and others are equally convinced emotion is exclusive to humans. So maybe we humans should embrace our emotion and just feel it? Having a funeral doesn’t make you sad. You are sad because someone has died. That sad emotion won’t go away just because you skip the funeral. The funeral is actually the first step in the long journey to feeling better.      </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/" target="_blank"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Thu, 05 Dec 2024 19:27:46 GMT handerson@plattsfuneralhome.com (Platt's Funeral Home Admin) https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/thinking-about-skipping-the-funeral thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/the-gift-of-a-note-to-your-family Nothing means more to a grieving child, spouse, sister, brother or friend than a personal note from the deceased. It’s something that will be cherished. The note will make its way out of it’s safe keeping spot whenever the mourner needs to feel close to the person who died. It will be read on those tearful days that are sure to come. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> Nothing means more to a grieving child, spouse, sister, brother or friend than a personal note from the deceased. It’s something that will be cherished. The note will make its way out of it’s safe keeping spot whenever the mourner needs to feel close to the person who died. It will be read on those tearful days that are sure to come. It will also be read on those days that are full of joyful remembrance.    </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> The note doesn’t have to be eloquent. It doesn’t have to be brilliant or witty. It doesn’t have to be long. It just needs to tell the person how you feel about them. The writer might also include what they liked about recipient, enjoyed doing with them, or how the person was helpful. The note can express gratitude or love. It can include a shared “remember when” story. In the end it’s a love note. A personal connection that lasts even when life has ended.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> So, when do you write these notes and where do you keep them? There really is no need to wait. Write your notes today or tomorrow as you live your life. They can always be revised and updated. Waiting may mean that you never get around to it. Remember, life is fragile.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> If you have an advance funeral plan on file at your preferred funeral home, you might ask the funeral director to keep them for you. Just imagine how lovely it would be for your family to receive your note at the conclusion of their conference with the funeral director to finalize your arrangements. If you don’t have a plan on file, make sure someone in your family knows where the notes are kept and when they should be distributed.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <strong> “We are fragile creatures, and it is from this weakness, not despite it, that we discover the possibility of true joy.”  </strong> <span>   </span> <strong> <br/> ― Desmond Tutu,  </strong> <strong> The Book of Joy: Lasting Happiness in a Changing World </strong> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/" target="_blank"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Thu, 05 Dec 2024 19:23:33 GMT handerson@plattsfuneralhome.com (Platt's Funeral Home Admin) https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/the-gift-of-a-note-to-your-family thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/jewish-funeral-traditions As we begin to learn more about religious practices outside of our own, it is sometimes surprising to find how much different faiths have in common. Mourners of all faiths understand the power of grief and the comfort of community. So, what happens when a person of the Jewish faith dies, and how can a person outside that faith support a friend or neighbor who is grieving? <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> As we begin to learn more about religious practices outside of our own, it is sometimes surprising to find how much different faiths have in common. Mourners of all faiths understand the power of grief and the comfort of community. So, what happens when a person of the Jewish faith dies, and how can a person outside that faith support a friend or neighbor who is grieving?  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> <span> In order to support a person of the Jewish faith when they have experienced a loss, one must learn about the Kaddish and sitting Shiva. According to Jewish Law anyone who has lost a parent, sibling, child, or spouse recites Kaddish every day beginning with the funeral and continuing for thirty days after the death. The </span> </span> <span> Mourners Kaddish </span> <span> <span> is a prayer, a profession of faith. The prayer is a listing of God’s holy attributes. Jewish law requires that sanctification of God’s name and requires ten voices … a minyan.  This requirement of a minyan assures that the mourner is not alone. For thirty days the </span> </span> <span> Mourners Kaddish </span> <span> <span> is recited in the presence of at least ten people. According to Anita Diamant in her book </span> </span> <span> Saying Kaddish… </span> <span> <span> “The power of Kaddish comes, in large measure, from the consolations of being in a group that recognizes and embraces the bereaved”.  </span> </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> The Hebrew word for funeral is Levayah, which means “accompanying”. There is no religious requirement for clergy to be present at a Jewish funeral. The responsibility is on the family. The service does not address the ideas of heaven, redemption or reunion, the focus is on the life of the deceased. The service is simple. Here are no flowers or music, the casket is lowered and all in attendance participate in covering the coffin.  Once the casket is lowered the business of caring for the dead is ended. The focus now shifts to mourning and supporting the family in their grief.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Shiva or “sitting Shiva” is a time for the bereaved. Traditionally Shiva lasts for seven days, although in modern times that is sometimes abbreviated to three days. It is a time to “sit” with grief. During Shiva the bereaved do not work or play. No calling into the office, no cooking, no dishes, no television or video games. Shiva is a time to do grief work. It is a time to explore emotions and feelings, to cry and to laugh. It is a time to share memories, tell stories, and receive consolation.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> When a Jewish person dies:  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <ul> <li> <span> Expect the service to take place the day after the death.  </span> </li> <li> <span> The service will be held either at a funeral home or a synagogue/temple  </span> </li> <li> <span> <span> There will never be an open casket  </span> </span> </li> <li> <span> <span> The service will be led by a rabbi  </span> </span> </li> <li> <span> The rabbi may deliver the eulogy or eulogies may be delivered by friends or family  </span> </li> <li> <span> Close friends and family will attend the interment. All who attend the interment will participate in filling the grave.  </span> </li> <li> <span> As the closest members of the family leave the gravesite, they pass between two rows of relatives and friends.  </span> </li> <li> <span> Do telephone or visit the bereaved  </span> </li> <li> <span> Do bring food, to be on the safe side, bring kosher food  </span> </li> <li> <span> Do not send flowers  </span> </li> <li> <span> Do make a contribution to a favorite charity in honor of the deceased  </span> </li> <li> <span> <span> When calling on family members who are </span> </span> <span> sitting Shiva </span> <span> <span> expect to stay for 20 to 30 minutes. The Mourners Kaddish will be recited twice a day, morning and evening. A guest should stand when the mourners stand and read along with the prayer in English  </span> </span> </li> <li> <span> The one-year anniversary of the death is marked with a ceremony, yahrzeit.  This ceremony is by invitation only and usually involves a service at the synagogue and “unveiling” of the tombstone at the cemetery.  </span> </li> </ul> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/" target="_blank"> https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/ </a> </p> </div> Tue, 11 Jun 2024 20:49:06 GMT handerson@plattsfuneralhome.com (Platt's Funeral Home Admin) https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/jewish-funeral-traditions thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/what-is-a-celebration-of-life The celebration of life is the personal or individual aspect of a funeral service. It is about the person who died. It is about their relationships, their loves, their passions, their accomplishments, their beliefs, their talents. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> Do you have to be rich or famous to have a celebration of life?  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> The celebration of life is the personal or individual aspect of a funeral service. It is about the person who died. It is about their relationships, their loves, their passions, their accomplishments, their beliefs, their talents. It is about what and who they cared about as they lived their own unique life. How did they make a difference?    </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> A person does not have to be rich, or famous, or even publicly successful to have had a life that can be celebrated. Maybe they were simply a dependable friend, or a loving parent, a great teacher, or just fun to be around. Isn’t that enough reason to celebrate?    </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> <span> A celebration of life can be compared to a couple writing all or part of their own vows for a wedding ceremony. It is the part of the service that is about the person. It can be the cookies they baked, the children they raised, the oceans they sailed, the buildings they built. What made them who they are and different from the person who was in this funeral home last week? Why will they be missed?  </span> </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Believe it or not, every person is unique. We all have a unique fingerprint, ear shape, and “thermal plume”.  Our own little cloud formed of a combination of 44 compounds given off by our bodies as we strut our stuff around town. We are unique. That is what a celebration of life is all about, who we were and how we touched others as we lived our life. Anyone can have a Celebration of Life.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> <span> A Life Celebration is not an </span> </span> <span> <span> either-or proposition </span> </span> <span> <span> as in “should we have a religious funeral </span> </span> <span> or </span> <span> <span> a Life Celebration”. It is an </span> </span> <span> and also proposition </span> <span> . You can have both. Especially when a person has a strong belief system that is just part of who they were. Talk to your funeral director. He or she can help you both honor faith and celebrate life.    </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/" target="_blank"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Tue, 11 Jun 2024 20:46:15 GMT handerson@plattsfuneralhome.com (Platt's Funeral Home Admin) https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/what-is-a-celebration-of-life thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/how-can-we-use-pictures-at-a-funeral Saying good-bye to someone you love is hard. Using pictures at the funeral of the person who died is a wonderful way to help tell a life story. There are a variety of ways to use photos. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> Saying good-bye to someone you love is hard. Using pictures at the funeral of the person who died is a wonderful way to help tell a life story. There are a variety of ways to use photos.    </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Using photos that span the entire life of a person—Mom as a little girl on the farm, as a young bride, a mother, at work, and as a grandmother—just brings it all back. Pictures trigger memories and that is one of the important functions of a funeral. You want to remember the life, not just the illness or accident that ended the life.    </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> A lot of pictures may not be required to tell the story. A few pictures can be enlarged and displayed around the room. If you have a lot of pictures that your family wants to use, they can be displayed in photo frames or albums. Many funeral homes are equipped with electronics that make it possible to show photos on large screens or televisions. These video tributes can be woven into the format of the service or stand on their own for people to view at will. Ask your funeral director for ideas and how they can help you achieve your goals.    </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Taking the time to come together and go through the family photos can be a healing process on its own. As you are putting together the photos be certain the entire family is well-represented. Everyone will enjoy seeing themselves with the family member who passed.    </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Remember: funeral directors are helpful people. They want your family to have a good experience. Still, they may not be aware that you have an amateur film producer in the family. Be sure to share the talents that your family has at their disposal as well as your family’s vision for the use of pictures at the funeral. A good picture is worth a thousand words. By all means, use those words and bring out those pictures for the funeral.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/" target="_blank"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Tue, 11 Jun 2024 20:37:10 GMT handerson@plattsfuneralhome.com (Platt's Funeral Home Admin) https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/how-can-we-use-pictures-at-a-funeral thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/the-history-of-veterans-day Veterans Day, a national and state holiday, serves as a day for Americans to come together to show their deep respect and appreciation for the military veterans of our country. It is the one day a year when we pause, reflect and show our gratitude to all those who are serving or have ever served in our military. So how did it come to be? <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> Veterans Day, a national and state holiday, serves as a day for Americans to come together to show their deep respect and appreciation for the military veterans of our country. It is the one day a year when we pause, reflect and show our gratitude to all those who are serving or have ever served in our military. So how did it come to be?  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> What we know today as Veterans Day was originally called Armistice Day. On November 11, 2019, we celebrate the 101st anniversary of the armistice that ended World War I. This armistice was signed at the 11th hour on the 11th day in the 11th month of 1918. At the time, we believed World War I was “the war to end all wars”.  One year after the armistice, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed November 11th as Armistice Day to commemorate the end of World War I. In his address to his “fellow-countrymen” delivered from the White House on November 11, 1919, Woodrow Wilson praised the contribution of the American people and shared hope for the future.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> With splendid forgetfulness of mere personal concerns, we remodeled our industries, concentrated our financial resources, increased our agricultural output, and assembled a great army, so that at the last our power was a decisive factor in the victory. We were able to bring the vast resources, material and moral, of a great and free people to the assistance of our associates in Europe who had suffered and sacrificed without limit in the cause for which we fought.  </span> <span> <span>   <br/> </span> </span> <span> <br/> Out of this victory there arose new possibilities of political freedom and economic concert. The war showed us the strength of great nations acting together for high purposes, and the victory of arms foretells the enduring conquests, which can be made in peace when nations act justly and in furtherance of the common interests of men.  </span> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> To us in America the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service, and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of nations.  </span> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Of course, lasting peace was not to be. After the Second World War, Alabama veteran Raymond Weeks had the idea to expand Armistice Day to honor all veterans. On May 26, 1954, President Dwight Eisenhower signed into a law a bill presented by Congressman Ed Rees from Kansas establishing Armistice Day as a national holiday eight years after Weeks began celebrating Armistice Day for all veterans. Congress amended the bill on June 1, 1954, replacing "Armistice" with "Veterans," and it has been known as Veterans Day since.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Memorial Day honors those who died in service, Armed Services Day honors those who currently serve. Veterans Day honors ALL veterans. Thank a Veteran on November 11th and be very proud and happy to go to bed tonight in the United States of America.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/" target="_blank"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Tue, 11 Jun 2024 20:25:11 GMT handerson@plattsfuneralhome.com (Platt's Funeral Home Admin) https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/the-history-of-veterans-day thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/cooking-for-one-the-perfect-egg The Wednesday before Thanksgiving, standing in the checkout line at the local market, a woman looked up and saw a man gazing longingly at her cart which was full of food. As he looked at the food, he said, “I should learn to cook.” As the conversation progressed, he shared that his wife had died awhile back, and he was still eating frozen dinners. He should learn to cook. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> The Wednesday before Thanksgiving, standing in the checkout line at the local market, a woman looked up and saw a man gazing longingly at her cart which was full of food.  As he looked at the food, he said, “I should learn to cook.” As the conversation progressed, he shared that his wife had died awhile back, and he was still eating frozen dinners. He should learn to cook.    </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> As it turns out, cooking for one is one of the most difficult hurdles a person faces when they lose their life partner. The first step is deciding to cook. Change the way you view cooking. Try looking at making food for yourself as an opportunity, rather than a chore. Take on the challenge of making simple food perfectly. Try to see something positive in the experience. One woman said she can eat when she wants and what she wants. That is her positive. She turns on the TV for company. You deserve to eat well.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Mastering the egg is a great place to begin. A lot can be done with an egg. Eggs can be stored in the refrigerator for weeks and can be used for any meal. Start with a few egg basics. Do cook your eggs gently. Lower the heat and cook them for a little longer time.  When cracking an egg, tap it on a flat surface like the kitchen counter rather than the edge of a bowl or pan.  This will prevent getting eggshells in your dish. To prevent rubbery egg whites always wait to salt your eggs until after the white is set.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Scrambled eggs are not just for breakfast. They can also be brunch, lunch, or even supper. To make a lovely scrambled egg the most important thing is to get air into the egg mixture. That is what makes them light and fluffy. So, crack a couple of eggs into the bowl add a tablespoon of milk, cream, half and half, sour cream, crème fraiche or even coconut cream. Then use a whisk or a fork to whip the eggs. Elbow up! It is all in the wrist, get some air in those eggs. Melt two tablespoons of fat such as butter or margarine, oil, or spray the pan with a cooking spray. Add the eggs to the fat and stir gently. Remember, medium heat not hot. Cook until they are the way you like them - soft and a little runny or dry. Just before plating your eggs, sprinkle with salt and pepper to your taste.    </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Hard-boiled eggs have a lot of uses. They can be added to a salad, or chopped with a little celery, onion, mayo and mustard to make an egg salad sandwich. Hard boiled eggs are also a good snack. A properly made hard-boiled egg will have a solid but moist yolk.  Green rings around the outside of the yolk are an indication of over cooking. Place cool eggs in the bottom of a saucepan cover with cool water and bring to a boil then turn the heat down and simmer the eggs for seven to eight minutes. Remove the eggs from the pan and put them in a bowl of ice water. Once they are cool, crack the egg on the bottom (not the side) and peel under cold running water. Older eggs will peel the easiest.    </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> <span> Making a Frittata is easy and provides a hearty supper. A frittata is a good way to use leftovers. Served with a small salad or rolls, it makes a complete dinner. Prepare an oven proof skillet and eggs as for scrambled eggs. Before you add the eggs to your skillet, sauté your vegetable and or meats in the pan. Some good combinations include broccoli, potato, and ham or spinach, red onion &amp; bacon. Really, just use what you like and have on hand or left over. Once your veggie mixture is cooked, pour in your eggs and add a handful of the cheese of your choice. You can even top the egg mixture with tomato slices if you are a fan of the tomato. Pop the mixture into a 375-degree oven and bake until puffed and set. Cut and serve. Yum, look what you made!  </span> </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/" target="_blank"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Tue, 11 Jun 2024 20:11:11 GMT handerson@plattsfuneralhome.com (Platt's Funeral Home Admin) https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/cooking-for-one-the-perfect-egg thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/choosing-music-for-a-funeral Should we play music at the funeral? What music can we play at the funeral? If it is given some thought, music can say everything about a loved one. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> Should we play music at the funeral? What music can we play at the funeral?  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> If it is given some thought, music can say everything about a loved one.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> <span> Too often the power of including music as a part of a funeral service is overlooked. There is a lot to think about when planning a funeral so it is easy to see how music can get lost. There are many ways music can be woven into the service. It can be played as people arrive or depart. Music can accompany the presentation of pictures and it can be played at the graveside. Music can have a little tiny part in the service or have a bigger role.  </span> </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Almost everyone has “their song” or a band they grew up listening to. A surprising number of folks have musical talent. Maybe they played an instrument or sang in the choir. The music that is played at a funeral can help tell the life story. If as a child, you were forced to endure Frank Sinatra on any road trip you took with your parents, why not include a little Sinatra in their funeral service?  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> When selecting music for a funeral think more about the person who died and the music they listened to, and less about finding appropriate funeral music. The music you select does not need to be about loss, it just needs to remind folks of the person they loved. The music will mean more to those attending the funeral when the link to the person they loved is clear. If that musical talent trickled down to the next generation, ask a grandchild or child to sing or play at some point during the service.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> <span> Not sure about what music mom really liked? Check out her records, CD collection, or playlist. You will likely find what you need. Talk to your funeral director, funeral celebrant, or clergy person to help you determine when and where to use music.  </span> </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/" target="_blank"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Tue, 11 Jun 2024 20:06:43 GMT handerson@plattsfuneralhome.com (Platt's Funeral Home Admin) https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/choosing-music-for-a-funeral thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/who-becomes-a-funeral-director Who becomes a funeral director? People who care, people who can lead, people who can mediate, people who are team players, people who quiet chaos. In short, people who help. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> <span> The funeral director is often the son or daughter of a funeral director. They grew up understanding the contribution the job brings to the community. Funeral directors are helpers. It’s more than just being understanding and compassionate. Funeral directors know what to do. They can guide a family that is in disarray due to a sudden loss of a family member. They know exactly where to begin when no one in the family has any idea what to do.  </span> </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> For the funeral directors who did not grow up in the business, they were drawn to the profession by their own memorable experience with loss. Having been comforted and supported by a funeral service themselves, they chose to enter the profession to help others. Funeral directors are helpers.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> <span> According to the </span> </span> <a href="https://www.nfda.org/" target="_blank"> National Funeral Directors Association </a> <span> , 16% of their member funeral directors are women. You can expect to see that number increase as 61% of current mortuary school students are female. Some suggest the increase in women entering the profession reflects changes taking place in the funeral service itself.    </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> The idea of celebrating the unique life of an individual who has died opens unlimited possibilities. Today’s funeral directors are increasingly involved in coordinating with clergy and a whole host of family members and others to ensure the service reflects the life of the person who died. This planning and developing a personalized service is appealing to many women.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> The profession has always taken care of the deceased, lifting that burden from families.  Today’s directors still take care of the one who died, but the real emphasis is on helping the survivors begin a healthy grieving process.    </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Who becomes a funeral director? People who care, people who can lead, people who can mediate, people who are team players, people who quiet chaos. In short, people who help.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/" target="_blank"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Tue, 11 Jun 2024 20:01:05 GMT handerson@plattsfuneralhome.com (Platt's Funeral Home Admin) https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/who-becomes-a-funeral-director thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/what-does-the-embalming-room-look-like Embalming takes place in a designated area of the funeral home. This space is off-limits to all but the professional staff members. The embalming room is very clean and is designed and maintained like a medical procedure room. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> Embalming takes place in a designated area of the funeral home. This space is off-limits to all but the professional staff members. Similar to a surgical suite in a hospital, the embalming room is built and furnished with hard surfaces, like tile, stainless steel, or concrete.  These materials are easily cleaned and nonabsorbent. The embalming room is very clean and is designed and maintained like a medical procedure room.    </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> During the embalming process, the deceased is placed on a hospital-style gurney or embalming table. Throughout the process, the body is treated with the upmost respect and dignity. It is covered except when it is necessary to expose a part in order to complete the procedure.  Funeral directors are very aware that the body was home to the spirit of a valued family member, and it is treated accordingly.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> During the embalming process the body is cleansed, body fluids are replaced with embalming fluids, features are set, and make up is applied to create a more natural appearance. In some cases, restoration is needed. Restoration is used to “repair” the body when an accident, violence, or disease has caused the body damage. Finally, the body is dressed.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Embalming is an ancient process that goes back to the time before Christ.  It has been updated over time to use fewer and less toxic chemicals. It is a form of preserving the body. In America embalming came into regular practice during the civil war. An embalmed body could be preserved and transported back to the soldier’s home so that the family could say their goodbyes. Today, embalming is required by law in some states when the body is going to be transported across state lines. Embalming is required by most funeral homes when a visitation with the body present will be part of the service.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Dying is often very hard on the body. Body mass is lost, pain and suffering make their mark on the facial features. Efforts to keep the dying person alive or comfortable, bruise the body.  Embalming provides the benefit of rolling back the clock and giving friends and family an opportunity to say their farewells to someone who looks more like the person they remember.  For most people, the final expression they see on a loved one’s face sticks with them and is a lasting memory.    </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> For those who prefer not to embalm, but still have family members who would like to have a private family viewing, other options are available. The family just needs to talk to their funeral director. Refrigeration can be used to slow down decomposition and can be a good alternative when religion or family custom eliminate the option of embalming.    </span> </p> <p> <span> The cost of embalming varies from one part of the country to the next. A family should not eliminate embalming for cost reasons alone. Talk to your funeral director. Always share both your family’s wants and needs as well as your budget with the funeral director. You may be surprised to find out embalming is less expensive than you expected.    </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/" target="_blank"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Tue, 11 Jun 2024 19:49:51 GMT handerson@plattsfuneralhome.com (Platt's Funeral Home Admin) https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/what-does-the-embalming-room-look-like thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/three-things-to-include-in-your-funeral-plan Many people plan their own funeral in advance. They keep their plan on file at the funeral home of their choice so that everyone in their family knows exactly what to do when they die. Others choose a more informal route and just tell their kids what they would like to have done. In either case, there are three things that will need to be covered. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> Many people plan their own funeral in advance. They keep their plan on file at the funeral home of their choice so that everyone in their family knows exactly what to do when they die. Others choose a more informal route and just tell their kids what they would like to have done. In either case, there are three things that will need to be covered.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> First consideration should be given to the service. Where will your family and friends gather together to share memories, give each other hugs, and accept the reality that you have died? How will the service be organized? A funeral service can be a celebration of life, a religious ceremony, or a combination of both. It can be held entirely at the funeral home or some part may take place at your place of worship or even a private club. The service that you plan and ask your family to carry out should be based not only on your personal preferences but should also be made with the needs of those closest to you in mind. What should be included to honor your life and give comfort to those you loved?  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Second a plan must include “final disposition.” What will happen to your body? If you choose to be cremated, where will your cremated remains finally rest? If they are to be kept in an urn by family members, how will that plan play out for generations to come?  If your children are happy to keep you inurned on the mantle, will your grandchildren and great grandchildren continue that tradition? There are several options for final disposition for cremated remains. They can be buried, they can be placed in an urn and rest in a columbarium niche, they can be kept by family members or they can be scattered. What is important is the plan include the final step. What happens after cremation? Body burial is a bit more straightforward. One needs only to decide on a cemetery and purchase a burial space.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> The third and final step in planning is to determine how your funeral will be paid for and who will be responsible. All three of these steps are easy to work out with the help of an advance funeral planner. Funeral homes all have a person on staff who will help you complete all the necessary steps. The best part? Planning your funeral is a free service and will include a cost estimate and keeping your plan on file at the funeral home. What a great gift for your family!  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/" target="_blank"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Tue, 11 Jun 2024 19:25:06 GMT handerson@plattsfuneralhome.com (Platt's Funeral Home Admin) https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/three-things-to-include-in-your-funeral-plan thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/top-three-priorities-for-those-who-are-grieving When a person is in the midst of grief, taking care of themselves can get lost in the mayhem. There really are so many things to do. Eating well, exercise, and even sleep just don’t seem that important. The reality is that grief takes a lot of energy. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> <span> When a person is in the midst of grief, taking care of themselves can get lost in the mayhem. There really are so many things to do. Eating well, exercise, and even sleep just don’t seem that important. The reality is that grief takes a lot of energy. Self-care might just be the most important item on the agenda.  </span> </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> If you know someone who is grieving, feed them. Make it easy. Take them something to eat. The effort of ordering a meal or getting dressed to go out to eat can be overwhelming to a person who is mourning a loss.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> If you are grieving, buy a few easy-to-prepare foods. Eggs and soup can be a good start. Don’t overlook the freezer section. Buy an apple. Microwave popcorn is not a meal!  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Exercise doesn’t always need to involve weights, running, or even sweat. Just take a walk. Start small. Try ten minutes the first few days and then see if that can be increased each week. Set your sights on a 30 minute walk each day.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> <span> The experts tell us we need seven to eight hours of sleep a night. They suggest going to bed at a regular time and getting up at a regular time. Set the alarm and watch those naps. It is tempting to use sleep to avoid those sad feelings. Too much sleep is no better than too little sleep. Try turning down the thermostat at night. Those in the know tell us 65 to 68 degrees is the optimal temp for sleep.    </span> </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Paying attention to these three basics, eating well, exercise, and sleep will help support a person who is involved in the difficult task of grieving.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> <a href="https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/" target="_blank"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Tue, 11 Jun 2024 19:18:22 GMT handerson@plattsfuneralhome.com (Platt's Funeral Home Admin) https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/top-three-priorities-for-those-who-are-grieving thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/trouble-sleeping-after-a-loss “The darkest hour is just before dawn,” or “Things will look better in the morning,” both are old sayings that could be interpreted in different ways. One theory holds those sayings refer to “night dreads”. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> “The darkest hour is just before dawn,” or “Things will look better in the morning,” both are old sayings that could be interpreted in different ways. One theory holds those sayings refer to “night dreads”. Night dreads are when sleep is interrupted abruptly with anxious feelings of dread. You wake after just a few hours of sleep when it’s too early to begin your day. The mind is racing in a negative direction swamped by feelings of alarm. These feelings that seem overwhelming at 3 a.m. magically evaporate when the sun comes up and the day begins for real.    </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Waking in the night with these negative thoughts seems to happen more often as we age and our sleep patterns change. They also happen more often during periods of stress. So, if you are a caregiver for a family member or have experienced a death in your family you may be familiar with episodes of “night dreads”. If that is the case, you know it can be difficult to get back to sleep and feel rested for the day ahead.    </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> When you wake with your heart pounding and your brain racing there are a few things you can try to undo the interruption. First, uncoil, change your position in the bed. Make sure your head and neck are well supported. Slow your breathing and actively work on directing your thoughts in another direction. Be very mindful about your breathing.    </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Softly close your eyes and draw your awareness to what you see as you slowly breathe in and out. At first, you may think you see nothing. But, be patient. Just keep breathing slowly and looking. In a little while you will begin to see patterns of light and dark. Stay focused on the patterns. Just watch them drift and move. Concentrate on your breath and the patterns. The negative thoughts will be crowded out and you will drift off to sleep. The key is not to get wrapped up in the negative spiral where one negative thought or fear connects to the next and the merry-go-round of thought is going faster and faster until you have no reasonable hope of sleep.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> If mindful breathing doesn’t work for you, try telling yourself a bedtime story. Be very colorful and descriptive as you develop your story over the details. What are the golfers wearing? Ball caps or visors, short sleeve shirts or sweaters, is the wind blowing, are the trees green or in fall color? How does the ball sound when it is struck by the club? The details are what will take your mind to a simpler, calmer place. Be very descriptive in your thoughts.    </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> If these techniques don’t help and your night dreads are becoming more frequent or they do not evaporate when the sun comes up, talk to your doctor. Sometimes there are physical connections to night dreads and the doctor can help. A good night’s sleep is important for health and well-being.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/" target="_blank"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Tue, 11 Jun 2024 19:05:43 GMT handerson@plattsfuneralhome.com (Platt's Funeral Home Admin) https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/trouble-sleeping-after-a-loss thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/why-dont-we-celebrate-life-while-the-person-is-alive Interesting question, isn’t it? The person asking the question had recently attended what he described as a “fabulous funeral.” Turns out the funeral was billed as a celebration of life. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> Interesting question, isn’t it? The person asking the question had recently attended what he described as a “fabulous funeral.” Turns out the funeral was billed as a celebration of life. Our questioner, Mark, attended because the person who died was the mother of a co-worker he had worked with for more than 30 years.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> Mark was so impressed with the woman’s talents, interests, and accomplishments, all of which were highlighted during the service, he said he wished he had known her. The service got him thinking. Perhaps the deceased would have enjoyed seeing how much her neighbors, friends, grandchildren and children thought of her? Mark was thinking it might be better to celebrate a person’s life BEFORE they die. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> What about that idea? Don’t we do that? Celebrate a person’s life while they are alive. It’s called a birthday party. Maybe we hold back a little. Perhaps we don’t gush over the person’s accomplishments as much on the birthday because the birthday boy or girl is too humble to feel comfortable being lauded while present and breathing? </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> So, is the value of a wonderful life celebration/funeral diminished because the person it was all about isn’t there to enjoy it? Or does the “value” of a funeral run deeper than that? Isn’t a funeral a validation of the significance of life in general? Might the fact that Mark was so moved by this ordinary women’s life inspire him to make more of his own? Isn’t it a worthwhile lesson for all of us to take a few hours and remember a person who died? Each of us is unique. Each of us walks a different path. Shouldn’t just about everyone’s life be summed up with a “fabulous funeral”? </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <a href="/" target="_blank"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Tue, 11 Jun 2024 17:46:05 GMT handerson@plattsfuneralhome.com (Platt's Funeral Home Admin) https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/why-dont-we-celebrate-life-while-the-person-is-alive thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/where-are-you-now-three-to-six-months-after-the-death-of-a-spouse Grief is individual. Everyone experiences the sorrow over the loss of a loved one in their own way and at their own pace. That said, there is enough common ground for scientists, behaviorists and psychologists to describe steps or stages of grief. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> Grief is individual. Everyone experiences the sorrow over the loss of a loved one in their own way and at their own pace. That said, there is enough common ground for scientists, behaviorists and psychologists to describe steps or stages of grief. These scales for grief are useful. They can be helpful to see your feelings mirrored in the process and it is good to see that progress is to be expected. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> In his book, Grief Counseling and Grief Therapy, William Worden takes a little different approach. He describes four tasks the mourner must accomplish. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> 1.   Accept the reality of the loss </span> </p> <p> <span> 2.   Work through the grief and pain </span> </p> <p> <span> 3.   Adjust to a new environment </span> </p> <p> <span> 4.   Find an enduring connection with the deceased while moving on with life </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> The task of accepting the reality of the loss usually takes place in the first weeks and months after the death. This is a busy time. There are many things to do. The busy work of filing papers and getting affairs in order can distract a person to the point they don’t feel the loss. This in turn can delay task number two - Working through the grief and pain. At some point, it is necessary to slow down and allow yourself to feel the pain. As Worden tells us, “The prescription for grief is to grieve. In my experience I have seen that despite best efforts, there is no way to “get around” grief; we have to be willing to go through it in order to get to the other side.”  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Sometime around that three to six-month time frame, it will be time to begin the work needed to accomplish task number three, Adjust to a new environment. This task requires much and takes time. It can mean learning how to live alone, learning how to pay your bills, cook your food, or care for your car. It can mean learning how to ask for and accept help. For some, this may be the hardest part. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> However, just as grief can’t be skipped or glossed over, adjusting to life without a person’s loved one must be done by the mourner. No one can do it for them. Others can help, but if one is to go on with life and experience all the joy of the future, it is necessary to engage in this task.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/" target="_blank"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Tue, 11 Jun 2024 17:34:17 GMT handerson@plattsfuneralhome.com (Platt's Funeral Home Admin) https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/where-are-you-now-three-to-six-months-after-the-death-of-a-spouse thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/when-i-die-i-just-want-you-to Adult children of parents of a certain age frequently find themselves caught off guard by parents who want to share their do’s and don’ts about their funeral service. It’s just natural to want to share thoughts on one’s final wishes. Most families appreciate the guidance. However, something this important really should be written and on file at the funeral home. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> Adult children of parents of a certain age frequently find themselves caught off guard by parents who want to share their do’s and don’ts about their funeral service. It’s just natural to want to share thoughts on one’s final wishes. Most families appreciate the guidance. However, something this important really should be written and on file at the funeral home. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Consistency is crucial. A series of “in the moment” comments to various children at different times, almost always leads to each child having at least a slightly different page at a time when they really need to work together. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Those off hand missives are very frequently made without consideration of the mourners. Telling children, you don’t want to be viewed after death may mean that a dear granddaughter who lives far away misses out on the opportunity to say “good-bye” in a way that would have helped her. So, before telling your children what you would like for your funeral service consider asking them what they would like to do for you. It’s also for the family that is left behind. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Enlisting the help of a funeral director or advance planner is very helpful and not at all difficult. Nearly all funeral homes have dedicated staff to help people plan funerals in advance. Parents and children can come together for the planning meeting and ensure everyone is on the same page. This service is typically provided by the funeral home at no charge and can provide peace of mind for the whole family.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/" target="_blank"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Tue, 11 Jun 2024 17:24:28 GMT handerson@plattsfuneralhome.com (Platt's Funeral Home Admin) https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/when-i-die-i-just-want-you-to thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/the-best-insurance-purchase-you-will-ever-make The storm passes and we are once again caught up in our love/hate relationship with insurance. Typically, we pay and pay and then we pray we don’t ever need to file a claim. No one wants to have their house burn down or blow away. But, it is also hard to write that check every month. Most folks do so because they are afraid not to. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> The storm passes and we are once again caught up in our love/hate relationship with insurance. Typically, we pay and pay and then we pray we don’t ever need to file a claim. No one wants to have their house burn down or blow away. But, it is also hard to write that check every month. Most folks do so because they are afraid not to. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> However, there is one kind of insurance you will absolutely use. You’ll get more than you paid in, and you don’t have to pay endlessly. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Funeral insurance, not to be confused with final expense insurance, is the rare insurance product designed to cover a cost that you absolutely will incur. We all die in the end. So, how does it work? </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Funeral insurance is sold through your funeral home. The amount of the insurance matches the cost of your funeral in today’s dollars. It can be paid in one payment and you are done. Or, you can pay over three to 20 years and be covered for the whole cost of your funeral while you pay.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> It’s easy to find out more. Just call the funeral home and ask to speak to someone in the advance planning department. You will want to set aside one to two hours for your meeting with the advance planner. You will have questions. Remember to ask how funeral insurance is different from final expense insurance.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/" target="_blank"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Sun, 09 Jun 2024 17:23:24 GMT handerson@plattsfuneralhome.com (Platt's Funeral Home Admin) https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/the-best-insurance-purchase-you-will-ever-make thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/after-the-funeral-how-are-you It’s a question we all hear almost every day. “Hi, how are you?” But it has a different feel when you have recently lost someone you love. It just feels heavier. So how do you deal with that question? <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> It’s a question we all hear almost every day. “Hi, how are you?” But it has a different feel when you have recently lost someone you love. It just feels heavier. So how do you deal with that question? </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> It may be tempting to just sort of brush it off saying something along the lines of, “Oh, I’m fine” or “I’m doing ok.” It’s easy to go back into before your loss mode. But, are you fine? How do you get back to being truly fine? </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Consider opening your heart to your closest friends. Let them in a little. The ones who are especially close to you truly do want to help. If you are struggling, say so. Then be specific about what is hard: “I hate eating alone. Sunday evenings are really lonely, I miss going to church with Frank.” Give people a little information that will give them some idea of how they might help. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> As the days, weeks, and months pass and you are still struggling to find peace and normalcy, you might feel like your sadness is becoming a burden to your friends. So, you just clam up. No one wants to feel like a burden. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> First, understand that you are not a burden to your family and friends. It is simply time to change your healing process. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> When confronted with the “how are you” question, consider giving an honest but brief response followed by something positive about your progress. “I still miss Frank terribly, but I have started having Sunday dinner with my son and his family and that really helps.” You might even use this moment to take the bull by the horns and suggest something that you would enjoy doing with your friend. Ask if they would be available for lunch, dinner, or a movie. Take charge of your grief. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> If your grief is stealing your gratitude and you really cannot see where you are doing better, try this. First thing, when you wake up in the morning, think about yesterday. What was good? Make a note of just three of your blessings. Maybe you enjoyed a long telephone call with your brother, or you finally made a decent egg for yourself, perhaps you have baby bunnies in your garden. Where were the little moments of gratitude? </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> If you look for little joys, you will find them. Those joys will feed your healing and grow the positives in your world. Don’t be afraid of the joy your life has to offer. Joy does exist after death. Don’t confuse your joy with not caring for your loved one. Make it a tribute to the joy he/she brought to your life. Making a habit of looking for and noting what you are grateful for in your life really can help. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/" target="_blank"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Sun, 26 May 2024 04:08:43 GMT handerson@plattsfuneralhome.com (Platt's Funeral Home Admin) https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/after-the-funeral-how-are-you thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/funerals-are-changing-but-grief-is-still-the-same Without a doubt, funerals are changing. Funeral services have become less formal and are noticeably more personal. They are sometimes religious and sometimes they are not. Funerals are often shorter and sometimes take place weeks after the death. There may be more songs, more pictures, and there is much more creativity at many funerals today. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> Without a doubt, funerals are changing. Funeral services have become less formal and are noticeably more personal. They are sometimes religious and sometimes they are not. Funerals are often shorter and sometimes take place weeks after the death. There may be more songs, more pictures, and there is much more creativity at many funerals today.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> But the feelings people have when someone they love dies are the same. Grief does not change. People feel detached, alone, numb, untethered. It is hard to believe the person is really gone. You feel their presence, and it hurts to feel it, but you are afraid not to feel it. Grief is hard. When someone important to us dies it is significant and there is a need to grieve and say good-bye.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Most of the changes in funeral services are no more than updated ways to do what funerals have always done. Funerals gather us together so we can cry, hug, laugh, and remember with our family and friends. Funerals let us know we are not alone and provide a way for our friends and family to feed us emotionally and physically. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Funerals provide an avenue toward acceptance of the reality of a death. While a funeral does not alleviate the pain, it is at least a little easier to begin to accept the loss in the embrace of family and friends.   </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Funerals help us acknowledge that life had value. This person was once a child. They were a mother, father, brother or sister. Whether they were famous or infamous, rich or poor, kind or mean, they lived.  </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Funerals can’t erase the pain of loss. When the funeral is over the grief is not over. However, skipping having a funeral won’t eliminate grief either. It won’t make death any easier. The ceremony of a funeral answers an instinctive need when going through the grieving process. </span> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> <span> Watch the reaction of a child when death impacts their life. Little children seem to just instinctively know what needs to happen. When their goldfish dies, they know they need the help of their parents to deal with loss. They are drawn to ceremony of a funeral to complete their grief and understand the feelings that go with it. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/" target="_blank"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Sat, 11 May 2024 18:38:06 GMT handerson@plattsfuneralhome.com (Platt's Funeral Home Admin) https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/funerals-are-changing-but-grief-is-still-the-same thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/remembering-a-rabid-football-fan Fans purchase large screen televisions just to watch the game. Others set up multiple televisions in their game day viewing rooms. All manner of hats, shirts, blankets, sweaters, jackets, mugs, and glasses in team colors are sold each year. Added to the dollars spent on equipment and tickets to events, it all adds up to $100 billion spent each year by fans. Football fans are mighty in number. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> Football, the American kind played with a spheroid shaped ball called a pig skin, is the be all end all fall activity for millions of Americans. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> Fans purchase large screen televisions just to watch the game. Others set up multiple televisions in their game day viewing rooms. All manner of hats, shirts, blankets, sweaters, jackets, mugs, and glasses in team colors are sold each year. Added to the dollars spent on equipment and tickets to events, it all adds up to $100 billion spent each year by fans. Football fans are mighty in number. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> It’s no surprise then when a fan dies and the family is putting together a funeral or memorial service, thoughts turn to how to incorporate the football passion in the service in a tasteful manner. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> This is a great idea. One of the most important benefits of a funeral service is having the opportunity to gather with others who knew and loved this person and reflect on the good times had together. Why not include something he or she enjoyed? </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> So, talk to your funeral director. Ask for ideas. There are caskets and urns that are made for fans. A team blanket can be draped over the casket or the person. Don’t forget the music. Ask about having the team song or alma mater played at some point in the service. Consider printing the words to the song in the program so everyone can remember their friend and sing together.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> Think beyond the things you can bring in or wear and ask the eulogist to share some of the stories that make you laugh. You know, the time the car was loaded with the entire family and they drove three hours to the game only to realize when they got there the tickets were left on the table at home. Share the story of the fabulous tailgate or the terrible tailgate, freezing in the cold, or getting soaked in the rain, or losing the car in the parking lot. There are bound to be stories. Talk about how much friends and family enjoyed sharing the football passion with the person who died.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> It all pulls people closer to the one they loved. Remembering the life, not just the cause of the loss, is the beginning of learning to live with the loss. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <a href="https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/" target="_blank"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Fri, 03 May 2024 14:36:48 GMT handerson@plattsfuneralhome.com (Platt's Funeral Home Admin) https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/remembering-a-rabid-football-fan thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/vanished-without-a-trace No obituary was written, no stone was laid, no words were spoken, no one gathered, no songs were sung and yet… She went to church almost every Sunday of her life. She loved music. The opera and the song Amazing Grace were at the top of her list. She played golf and bet on the ponies. She traveled to China and saw the Great Wall, and to Rome, Paris, and Budapest. She won trophies at golf. She skied and was a master at bridge. She swam in the ocean, collected seashells and watched the whales. She read hundreds of books and saw scores of plays and movies. She painted walls, and flowers, and pictures of her pets. She raised five children and played with grandchildren and great grandchildren. She went to all the weddings, graduations, bridal showers and baby showers. She moved her family and her life 11 times to accommodate her husband’s career. She made new friends (that she kept forever) everywhere she moved. She started a new career of her own time and time again. And made more friends. She called friends, visited friends, wrote to friends and hung out with her friends.  She was loved by her family and they visited often. Her home was full of pictures of family and friends. Her grandchildren learned about growing flowers and berries and tomatoes from her. She lived a long and productive life.   So how, you might ask, did she come to pass from this earth without the event being marked or her life celebrated? How is that her friends do not even know she is gone? Why are her children and grandchildren bearing the loss without the comfort of each other’s company?  She told them, “Please don’t make a fuss.” Her family took her at her word. No fuss was made. She vanished without a trace.   www.plattsfuneralhome.com <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> No obituary was written, no stone was laid, no words were spoken, no one gathered, no songs were sung and yet… </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> She went to church almost every Sunday of her life. She loved music. The opera and the song <em> Amazing Grace </em> were at the top of her list. She played golf and bet on the ponies. She traveled to China and saw the Great Wall, and to Rome, Paris, and Budapest. She won trophies at golf. She skied and was a master at bridge. She swam in the ocean, collected seashells and watched the whales. She read hundreds of books and saw scores of plays and movies. She painted walls, and flowers, and pictures of her pets. </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> She raised five children and played with grandchildren and great grandchildren. She went to all the weddings, graduations, bridal showers and baby showers. She moved her family and her life 11 times to accommodate her husband’s career. She made new friends (that she kept forever) everywhere she moved. She started a new career of her own time and time again. And made more friends. She called friends, visited friends, wrote to friends and hung out with her friends. <span>   </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> She was loved by her family and they visited often. Her home was full of pictures of family and friends. Her grandchildren learned about growing flowers and berries and tomatoes from her. She lived a long and productive life. <span>   </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> So how, you might ask, did she come to pass from this earth without the event being marked or her life celebrated? How is that her friends do not even know she is gone? Why are her children and grandchildren bearing the loss without the comfort of each other’s company? <span>   </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> She told them, “Please don’t make a fuss.” Her family took her at her word. No fuss was made. She vanished without a trace. </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p>   </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <a href="../../"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> <p> </p> </div> Thu, 11 Apr 2024 04:00:00 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/vanished-without-a-trace thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/preparing-the-eulogy <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> Writing and delivering a eulogy can be a daunting task. How do you sum up a life in three to eight minutes? If you are not accustomed to public speaking, the idea of “being on stage” can add to the discomfort. But take heart: what you are going to do is important, but perfection is not required. </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> Here are a few tips to help you along the way. </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> Preparation is important and should not be skipped. A eulogy is not something one can just do “on the fly.” Even the most seasoned of writers and speakers perform better when they plan and organize. <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> Begin by briefly introducing yourself. Share how you are connected to the deceased. If you are representing the family, thank people for coming. </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> Do your homework. Start with a basic outline of the person’s life. Include where and when they were born. Mention parents and siblings. Include basic information about marriages, children born, education, and work. <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> The best eulogies capture the essence of the person who died. Include words like “kind,” “loyal,” “hardworking,” and “free spirited.” These are descriptive adjectives that everyone who knew them can relate to as soon as the word is spoken. </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> A good way to capture that essence is to interview a few people who knew the deceased well. You will find most friends and family will be more than willing to help you. These interviews are one of the most important parts of your preparation. <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span>                                                                                                                                       </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> Plan to ask the same simple questions with each person you interview. Ask permission to record the interview. When a death has occurred, it is too much to expect that you’ll be operating at peak performance. Being able to go back and listen to your interviews will become important as you begin to put the information you receive from everyone in writing. </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> Ask open ended questions. How did you know _______? How would you describe ________? What will you remember about ________? Do you have a story to share? <span>   </span> What should I not forget to say about ______? Don’t forget to answer the questions you asked others yourself. </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> After you talk to a few friends and family you will probably begin to see the essence of the person you are going to talk about begin to emerge. Include a story that illustrates this essence. Be descriptive. Include humor if it feels natural and comes easily. Don’t try to force humor if it doesn’t feel comfortable to you or because you think there should be something funny included. </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> Finally, you must say farewell. There needs to be a conclusion. If words do not come to you, borrow words from a poet, a song writer, or scripture. Perhaps the person who died had a favorite such person that you can quote. </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> Don’t forget to practice. Read the eulogy you have written out loud. Make corrections and read it out loud again. Time yourself and edit if you are going over 10 minutes. Finally, check with others involved in the service regarding the order of the service. If there is more than one eulogist be sure you are not sharing the same story or information. </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> When the time comes, speak slowly and distinctly. Most people tend to speed up when they are nervous. If emotion surfaces, stop, take a minute and a deep breath before continuing. You’ll be glad you practiced. </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <a href="../../"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> Thu, 28 Mar 2024 04:00:00 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/preparing-the-eulogy thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/scam-protection <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> How do I protect myself from scams that have become all too common in society today? How do I prevent myself from becoming a victim of the scammers who are on the phone, on the computer and at the front door? </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> Stuff needs to get done around your house. Maybe you could use some help with yard work, painting, window cleaning, or a new roof. You answer the phone. Another group is asking for your monetary support. What do you do? How do you respond? <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> Take the time now to familiarize yourself with hard and fast rules designed to help you make good choices and avoid the masters of the scam. </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> Rule number 1: NEVER hire someone you don’t know to do a job who comes to your door and asks for the job. Here’s what they will tell you: </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <!-- [if !supportLists]--> <span> <span> · <span>       </span> </span> </span> <!--[endif]--> <span> They are doing work in the neighborhood and will give you a great deal. </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <!-- [if !supportLists]--> <span> <span> · <span>       </span> </span> </span> <!--[endif]--> <span> They’ll tell you how honest they are and may even have a child with them. </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <!-- [if !supportLists]--> <span> <span> · <span>       </span> </span> </span> <!--[endif]--> <span> They’ll scare you … “those bushes block the view of your door someone could break in” or “snakes hide in those weeds I wouldn’t want to see your little dog get hurt” … “That tree could fall on your house.” </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <!-- [if !supportLists]--> <span> <span> · <span>       </span> </span> </span> <!--[endif]--> <span> They’ll want a quick decision and payment up front. </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> Just say no nicely and shut the door. Better yet, don’t open the door to a stranger! Only hire someone you call and who provides references. <span>    </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> Rule number 2: When it comes to the phone and internet, NEVER give ANY personal information, make a financial contribution, or buy anything from anyone who calls, emails, or texts you and asks. Just say, “I do not ever do that.” Here’s what they will tell you: </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <!-- [if !supportLists]--> <span> <span> · <span>       </span> </span> </span> <!--[endif]--> <span> “It’s free.” Not on your life! You will pay. It’s never really free. </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <!-- [if !supportLists]--> <span> <span> · <span>       </span> </span> </span> <!--[endif]--> <span> “It’s for a good cause.” Fire, police, orphans, cancer. They may be good causes, but you can find them locally and donate locally. If you send money you will hear from these folks frequently and forever. They will be asking for additional dollars. </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <!-- [if !supportLists]--> <span> <span> · <span>       </span> </span> </span> <!--[endif]--> <span> They’ll scare you. Someone you care about needs help (translate that to money). </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <!-- [if !supportLists]--> <span> <span> · <span>       </span> </span> </span> <!--[endif]--> <span> They’ll tell you they are official US this or that. The real IRS and Social Security do not call people. Don’t believe it. </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> Just say no and hang up. Better yet, screen your calls. <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> Rule number 3: Give yourself a COOLING OFF PERIOD. NEVER be pressured into a quick decision, especially one that involves money. Designate someone you trust to be your decision buddy BEFORE you need them. Make a hard and fast rule for yourself that before you act, you’ll share what you are thinking about doing with this person. </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> Talk to your spouse, partner or parents about scams and scammers. Make a short list of rules for yourself. No exception rules, short and easy to remember. Sign up for AARP fraud alert network at AARP.org. Be prepared. </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> Finally, if you have been scammed don’t keep it a secret. Report it to your state’s Attorney General, the FBI, or Federal Trade Commission. Ask for help. It is embarrassing. Once you realize what happened, you feel foolish and that can be depressing. Don’t be too hard on yourself. Stuff happens. These people know exactly how to push the buttons of nice, kind folks. Prevention is the only real defense. </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <a href="../../"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> Fri, 15 Mar 2024 04:00:00 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/scam-protection thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/age-associated-financial-vulnerability <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> Read this blog even though you don’t want to. Especially if you or your parent is over 65 or living alone. Age Associated Financial Vulnerability is a real thing and it affects intelligent, independent people. The </span> <a href="https://www.consumerfinance.gov/"> <span> Consumer Financial Protection Bureau </span> </a> <span> puts the cost of elder financial exploitation as high as $36 billion a year.  </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> If you are or you know anyone over 65 you know about the exploitation part. Those calls that come many, many times a day and at increasingly unorthodox hours of the day. <span>   </span> Why are older Americans targeted? Because they hold a large percentage of the wealth. Some estimates have the over age 50 population holding as high as 83% of America’s wealth. And as we age, we become more vulnerable. It’s as simple as that. </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> If you think you are not a likely candidate for fraud, think again. Victims are not who you think they are. They are high functioning seniors and often test as “normal “on cognitive function assessments. It’s complicated. You can check out the report <em> Brains and Losses </em> at </span> <a href="https://www.marketplace.org/"> <span> marketplace.org </span> </a> <span> . It has to do with changes in our brains as we age. How we process information when we are in emotional states. That includes being angry (at the caller), being scared or just being a nice person. Scammers know how to exploit our emotions. </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> Bottom line, living alone increases susceptibility because when you are alone you don’t have that close contact to hash over a call or contact you receive. Prevention is the key. If you are living alone, open up to someone you trust. If you have a parent or relative living alone check in on them regularly. Don’t judge. Make yourself available. Ask your parent what they know about scams. Teach your parent how to screen calls. <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> Being susceptible <u> does not </u> mean an older person needs to go to a nursing home or lose independence. It does mean both the aging and those who love an older person need to be on their toes, maintain close contact, and have open conversations. <span>   </span> </span> <span>   </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> Some ideas about setting hard and fast lines of defense will follow in a later blog at this site. <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p>   </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span> <a href="../../"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> Fri, 01 Mar 2024 05:00:00 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/age-associated-financial-vulnerability thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/grief-is-individual <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span> Let’s talk about the stages of grief. There is denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance. I studied them in nursing school, reviewed them when I got divorced and generally found them to be a pretty accurate and helpful bit of knowledge. And then, a family member died. Stages?   </span> </span> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span> In our house it was more like we all went to the amusement park and were all on very different rides. Up and down, round and round, quiet and loud. We were definitely not that family walking together peacefully along a path through stages. We were all a bunch of nuts. Although we love each other, we were dangerously close to coming apart at the seams. </span> </span> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span> I don’t think we are the only ones. Death is the number one stressor for families. I’ve seen families break under the weight of illness and loss. Funeral directors will tell you the hardest part of their work is dealing with families who are emotionally fragmented. </span> </span> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span> We all experience grief differently. It’s a singular journey. But you have to get along. If you don’t work it out you risk losing your family, not just the one member who actually died. So, what helped us? </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span> Deep breathing and listening, I mean really listening to understand not just hear.  Recognizing anger as an expression of fear. Seeing frenzied activity as a coping mechanism for helplessness. Making room for each other’s ways of expressing love.   </span> </span> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span> Accepting the prayers and the mementos even when the prayers aren’t ours and the memento is not what we would choose for a funeral.   </span> </span> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span> Being tolerant of each other’s needs and expression of their personal grief. Looking for what’s motivating the behavior not just the behavior itself. Being kind and tolerant. Hugging the huggers and giving the non-huggers their space. Letting go of judgment and making room for differences. I mean really, so what if your sister cries loudly? What’s the harm? </span> </span> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span> The days before a funeral, the time during the arranging of the funeral and weeks following a funeral are not easy. You and your family can come out of it broken or stronger. </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p>   </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p>   </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <a href="../../"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> Thu, 15 Feb 2024 05:00:00 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/grief-is-individual thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/how-should-i-prepare-for-my-funeral-preplanning-meeting <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span> First, relax. Talking about your funeral plans might make you a little uncomfortable at first but making a plan doesn’t mean you will be using it anytime soon. Your funeral director or advance planner will guide you through the process. Most people get very comfortable in just a few minutes.   </span> </span> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span> Do consider bringing someone with you. Be aware that children are often reluctant to come. They don’t want to think about losing you. Insist they come anyway. They will thank you later. </span> </span> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span> Do allow enough time. Typically, you will need an hour or two to get the most from your preplanning appointment.   </span> </span> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span> Make a list of your questions. You may be undecided about some things. That’s fine.  This meeting is a good place to get the information you will need. Just ask. Why should I have a gathering? Is it important for my family to see my body? If I am cremated what are my options for a service? What are the benefits of paying in advance? If I pay in advance can I make payments? Any question you have is a good question.  </span> </span> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span> Probably the most important thing you can do to prepare for your meeting is simply to think about your family and your friends. Who are your people? Brothers, sisters, children, grandchildren, the friends you have known forever and the friends you see every day. Picture them. Think about them. What will they remember about you?  What kind of a service will bring them comfort? Will they want to share stories? Will music be important? Will a spiritual component be a valuable part of your service? </span> </span> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span> Become aware that not everyone in your circle may find comfort in the same way. Tell your planner about the needs of your family and friends. Let the funeral professional help you find the right fit for your people. The funeral is for the survivors, so think about them.  </span> </span> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span> People smile, they even laugh at these meetings. What you are about to do is a final gift for those you love.   </span> </span> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p>   </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p>   </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <a href="../../"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> Fri, 02 Feb 2024 05:00:00 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/how-should-i-prepare-for-my-funeral-preplanning-meeting thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/its-not-really-a-funeral-plan-if-its-not-at-the-funeral-home <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span> Can I just say that funerals stick in the mind of a loved one years after a death? It’s important that you get it right <b> .  </b> Please don’t put your wishes in the drawer with the rest of your files. Oh, and that thing where you tell the kids what you want. That’s not the best either.   </span> </span> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span> Here’s what often happens: </span> </span> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <em> <span> The plan in the file -  </span> </em> </span> <span> <span> It might be part of the estate plan or stuck in with the financial advisor’s paperwork, or just written on some paper. It is highly likely that it will not be found until well after the funeral is over. In the hours following a death there are literally more than a hundred things to do. Trust me, I’ve seen the lists. People count this stuff. I know because I’ve just been through it myself. There is a lot to do over a short period of time when someone dies. Your family will not be going through the files.   </span> </span> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span> They will not know you wanted to wear your blue dress and that you wanted  <em> The Wind Beneath My Wings </em>  sung at your funeral. They just won’t. So, imagine the anguish when they find your “plan” two weeks after the funeral service is over.   </span> </span> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span> Imagine how they are going to feel when they realize they buried you in the wrong dress and sang the wrong song. Terrible. That’s how they will feel.  Sadly, they’ll feel that way for a very long time.  </span> </span> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <em> <span> You’ve told your kids what you want -  </span> </em> </span> <span> <span> Seems like it will be ok, but maybe not.  My friend Martha and her two sisters have not been on speaking terms since their mother died. Seems everyone heard something different from Mom regarding what she wanted. The twins heard she didn’t care “do what you want”.  So, when mom died visiting one of them a Southern Baptist service was arranged. That service stunned Martha who was raised Catholic and heard mom say she wanted “a service just like the one we did for your dad.”  </span> </span> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span> Call the funeral home, make an appointment and get everything written down and on file at the funeral home. It’s easy and there is not charge for the appointment. </span> </span> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p>   </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <a href="../../"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> Fri, 19 Jan 2024 05:00:00 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/its-not-really-a-funeral-plan-if-its-not-at-the-funeral-home thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/how-to-dress-for-a-funeral First, understand that what you wear to the funeral is much less important than actually going to the funeral or gathering.  Don’t underestimate the value of your presence.  Your kind words, shared stories, or even just a hug will mean a great deal to friends and family when there has been a death. Don’t let not having a pair of dress shoes keep you from offering your support.  That being said, what you wear depends on several different factors. The first thing to consider is who died.  If your 80-year-old grandfather passed, the funeral is likely to be more traditional. His older friends will attend, so you will want to be more conservative.  A pair of slacks and a collared shirt for men and boys will do nicely. If you own a sport coat, by all means wear it. A tie with or without the jacket would be a nice, but not a required, addition.   For the ladies and girls, dress slacks and a nice sweater or blouse will serve the purpose. A dress or skirt would also be lovely. Do pay attention to necklines and length of the skirt.   When the funeral is for a younger person or will not be faith based, it may be more informal.  A celebration of life is typically more relaxed and may even have a theme that the family will ask attendees to support.  So if you’re asked to wear golf attire to the funeral of an avid golfer, don’t be surprised.   Like the dress code for most events today, what we wear to a funeral has relaxed. Black is no longer required, but neat, clean, and subdued are always in good taste.  A funeral is not a place to stand out or be the center of attention. As you survey your wardrobe, think in terms of what you would wear to an important job interview or something you would want to wear to apply in person for a bank loan.     www.plattsfuneralhome.com <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> First, understand that what you wear to the funeral is <em> much </em> less important than actually going to the funeral or gathering. <span>   </span> Don’t underestimate the value of your presence. <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> Your kind words, shared stories, or even just a hug will mean a great deal to friends and family when there has been a death. Don’t let not having a pair of dress shoes keep you from offering your support. </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span>   </span> <span> That being said, what you wear depends on several different factors. The first thing to consider is who died. </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span>   </span> <span> If your 80-year-old grandfather passed, the funeral is likely to be more traditional. His older friends will attend, so you will want to be more conservative. </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span>   </span> <span> A pair of slacks and a collared shirt for men and boys will do nicely. If you own a sport coat, by all means wear it. A tie with or without the jacket would be a nice, but not a required, addition. <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span>   </span> <span> For the ladies and girls, dress slacks and a nice sweater or blouse will serve the purpose. A dress or skirt would also be lovely. Do pay attention to necklines and length of the skirt. <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span>   </span> <span> When the funeral is for a younger person or will not be faith based, it may be more informal. </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span>   </span> <span> A celebration of life is typically more relaxed and may even have a theme that the family will ask attendees to support. <span>   </span> So if you’re asked to wear golf attire to the funeral of an avid golfer, don’t be surprised. <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span>   </span> <span> Like the dress code for most events today, what we wear to a funeral has relaxed. Black is no longer required, but neat, clean, and subdued are always in good taste. </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span>   </span> <span> A funeral is not a place to stand out or be the center of attention. As you survey your wardrobe, think in terms of what you would wear to an important job interview or something you would want to wear to apply in person for a bank loan. <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p>   </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span>   <a href="../../"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> Sat, 06 Jan 2024 05:00:00 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/how-to-dress-for-a-funeral thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/when-the-soul-leaves-the-body-reacting-to-a-sudden-unexpected-death <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Sometimes, if you are open to it, you can receive amazing information in the most unlikely ways.  For example, there was a driver who was taking a woman to the airport when she received the news that a family member had died. The woman gasped and her driver, who was from another culture, asked if she was okay. Normally she would just say “I am fine” because she is a private person. On this particular occasion, however, she shared her situation with this driver. Upon hearing the news, this gentleman shared his cultural belief and at that moment…it was exactly what she needed to hear. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> He said, “When the soul leaves the body, it can take a long time or it can happen very quickly. No matter how, it is painful. It is painful for the one who is dying, and it is painful for those who are left behind. The separation of the soul from the body, that is the ending of life. That is death. No matter how it happens, there is pain.” </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> When death is sudden and totally unexpected, you may find that you and your family members react in ways that seem strange and unfamiliar. You get the call. Something terrible has happened. Someone has died. You are stunned.  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> As you begin to process the news, you may experience a strong pull to see where it happened. This is a normal response. Before you can accept the reality of the death you may have to see. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Seeing a loved one after their passing is not an easy thing to do, but it is necessary for many. If you feel you need to see, honor your need. The funeral director understands this need and can help you. Even if your mother always said, “I don’t want people to see me after I die”, she probably didn’t understand back then how her passing would affect you now. Talk to the funeral director and he or she will help you honor your mother’s wishes and satisfy your need as well. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> In addition to accepting the reality that a death has occurred, those who experience a sudden loss also have the burden of working out how the death happened and why it happened. Many questions will go through their mind: </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> This is a normal. Be patient with your family members as each of you must work through this in your own personal way. When the soul leaves the body it is always painful, but when it happens suddenly and unexpectedly, there are additional burdens to work through. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <a href="/"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Sun, 04 Dec 2022 05:00:00 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/when-the-soul-leaves-the-body-reacting-to-a-sudden-unexpected-death thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/making-the-funeral-about-the-one-who-died <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> A “personalized” funeral is not just for the rich and famous. When someone we love dies, we want to remember that person. We want to celebrate the life that was lived. A life story does not have to have a dramatic plot twist or culminate in fame and riches to be worthy of remembrance. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> So, how does one go about putting together a life celebration? </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Pictures are a great place to begin. Look for pictures that span their lifetime, show their personality, celebrate their relationships and friends, put them in the context of their work, hobbies, or passions. Most funeral homes now have equipment to create a video that can be shown in a loop on a television or larger screen.    It is also relatively inexpensive to get photographs of those milestone moments made large. Ask your funeral director how these can be displayed at the funeral. They can also direct you to local retailers who will be able to assist with photographs. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Consider integrating pictures with the eulogy. For example, the eulogist might share stories about the childhood years of the person who died while childhood pictures are shown in the background. Don’t be shy about asking the funeral director for what you envision. Maybe you would like two different video tributes. One might showcase family life and one sports, hobbies or special interests. Just ask, because funeral directors want the service to be meaningful for the family and friends. They are there to help you honor your loved one. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Music can also be a great background and can be integrated into the service. Nearly every family has someone who can put together a playlist. Choose musical favorites of the deceased.  There are also many songs that relate to death or loss in every musical genre from country to classical. Be sure to check with your funeral director to make sure the format for the music you would like to use is compatible with the funeral home’s equipment. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> There really is no end to the ways you can express the personality and interests of the person you loved and lost. Talk about your ideas with the key people in your family before you attend the arrangement conference with your funeral director. Then just ask away. Can we bring the dog? Can we bring in some of Mom’s artwork? Can we give everyone a golf ball? Just ask. You might be surprised to find your funeral director has some helpful ideas for a fitting farewell. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <a href="/"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Sun, 04 Dec 2022 05:00:00 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/making-the-funeral-about-the-one-who-died thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/memorial-day <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> What is the purpose of Memorial Day? Why do we have this holiday? </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Of course, it is a three-day weekend. A perfect time to hit the road and do something in the great outdoors. After all, in most parts of the country it’s the start of the Summer season. Time to clean off the grill, get out the frisbee, and invite family and friends over for the first barbecue of the season.  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> But wait, before you get going on the “Yay! It’s Summer” theme, take a moment to remember the origin of this holiday. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> It started as Decoration Day. The Civil War ended in the Spring of 1865 claiming 600,000 lives. More lives than in other wars in US History. Decoration Day was a day set aside to decorate the graves of those who died in this war. Graves were decorated with flowers and flags with a goal to honor the ultimate sacrifice of those who died. By the end of the 1800’s Decoration Day was an official holiday. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> After World War I, Decoration Day was changed to Memorial Day. The revamped holiday was set aside as a time to remember all who gave their lives in service of our country in any war. Memorial Day is a distinctively American holiday and is properly celebrated with red, white, and blue American enthusiasm.  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> It is also a time to visit the cemetery and decorate the graves, fly the flag, and go to a parade. It might also be a time to think about and learn a little about American History. You could even make it a family activity. Get the kids to put those electronic devices to good use playing Memorial Day Trivial Pursuit of sorts. How many wars have we Americans participated in? Where did we fight? Why were we fighting? Just go with the tried and true journalism questions… who, what, where, when, and why. There is a lot to learn.  Your family might even have a discussion! </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Use a little of that time off work to learn about, remember, and honor all the men and women who have died in military service. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <a href="/"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Sun, 04 Dec 2022 05:00:00 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/memorial-day thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/mother-diedhow-long-do-we-keep-her-things <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Separating from a loved one’s belongings is one of the more difficult jobs you will have to do after a death. It is amazing how much is collected over a lifetime. You probably won’t get it done in a day and you will probably shed a few tears.    </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Ask for help. Accepting and asking for help is harder than you might think. It is hard to turn over the decision of what goes and what stays to someone else. If your offer of help is refused, be understanding. Your mother may need to handle every one of your deceased father’s possessions before anything can go. Give her some time and then offer to help again a little later. Offering to box or bag after items have been sifted through is a huge help.   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> If you are the decision maker, consider providing some guidelines and then letting go. It’s a big job. Some help will be nice.   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> First contact your family members to determine what they might be interested in having. Give people some notice and a time limit, “If there is anything that you want from Mom’s wardrobe please come and get it before next week. I am going to sort through then and will be giving things to charity.”  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Second, make it a goal to handle things once. To keep you on track, get boxes, bins or bags and mark them FOR CHARITY, FOR TRASH, TO KEEP.  Keep those boxes moving. At the end of the day take the trash to the trash and the charity to the donation site so that you won’t be tempted to go through them just one more time.    </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> If you are thinking about having a sale, think long and hard. People haggle at tag and garage sales. Are you emotionally prepared to dicker over the value of your dad’s favorite tie or his collection of fishing lures? Might it be better to think of his things finding new homes with people who need them? Sales are a lot of work, be kind to yourself, avoid taking on too much.  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Procrastination won’t make the task easier. If you cannot take care of the sorting and giving, turn the job over to someone else. If you are a procrastinator, storage units have your name written all over them. Calculate the annual cost. Ask yourself, “What will change between now and next year?” Have a plan. When does the storage end?  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Memories are attached to our stuff. You will no doubt take more than a few walks down memory lane. Slow down and enjoy the journey. A life is over, but it’s not forgotten. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <a href="/"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Sun, 04 Dec 2022 05:00:00 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/mother-diedhow-long-do-we-keep-her-things thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/cremation-or-burial-is-that-the-question <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> When a family member dies or when a person is planning their own funeral in advance, one of the first questions that will be asked is, “Do you want burial or cremation?” The burial or cremation question is a starting point for a number of choices that must be made. It’s a place to start. But it is absolutely not the entire story. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> So, how do you decide?  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Approximately 50 percent of people choose burial, so that means the other half choose to be cremated. The numbers vary vastly in different parts of the country, from small towns to big cities, from one faith base to another, from one family to another. The most important thing to remember when you are the decision maker is this: let go of what you think burial is, and let go of what you think cremation is. Either can be just about anything you want, and either can provide comfort for your family. So, yes, cremation can include faith, gathering, visitation, a funeral and burial. And, yes, burial can include a celebration of life, music, and pictures in addition to visitation, faith, and funeral. Woo Hoo! Who knew you can have it your way! </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Here are a few things to consider when deciding between cremation or burial. What is your family tradition? Do you want to continue with that tradition, or do you want to change things up? Do you and your family share a faith base? Where does your faith stand on the cremation or burial question? Where do you live? Does your family live near you? Will someone be around to tend or visit your burial place? Will your family be disappointed if there is no grave to visit? What is your budget? What will your family be able to do? Will they put together a video, sing a song, tell a story, host the gathering?  What can they do and where will they appreciate help? </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> If the choice is to bury, a cemetery will need to be selected and then a location within that cemetery. The burial site provides a place for family members to visit and remember. They can bring flowers or flags to decorate the gravesite during the course of the year. These are all actions that many families find help them with the grieving process.  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> If the choice is to cremate, then a final location for cremated remains will need to be selected. Sadly, this final and very important decision is often overlooked. There are many options. Cremated remains can be buried, placed in a niche, scattered, or retained by a family member. Careful consideration of those left with the ashes should be made before deciding on a final resting place for cremated remains. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> It is a lot. Fortunately, help is available. A funeral director or advance funeral planner can help, and all you need to do is call the funeral home to arrange for an appointment. There is usually no cost for an arrangement appointment. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <a href="/"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Sun, 04 Dec 2022 05:00:00 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/cremation-or-burial-is-that-the-question thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/what-to-expect-with-cremation <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Cremation has been around for thousands of years. It is required by some faiths and forbidden by others. Governments, charged with protection of the public health and aesthetic of the community, have laws governing both cremation and burial practices.  One way to view burial and cremation is to look at each as a means to the same end.  Dust to dust. Cremation is quick, and burial is slow. Either one is a legal and acceptable means to the end. Most people understand what burial is about, but questions remain about cremation. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Cremation takes place in a chamber designed specifically for the purpose of reducing human remains to basic elements. This chamber is called a retort, cremator, or cremation chamber. One human body and only one at a time is cremated in the cremator. The body is clothed or shrouded and placed in a container before being placed in the cremation chamber. The container is made of a combustible material. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> The cremation process takes from 2 to 3 hours. The time varies based on the size of the body and heat capacity of the cremation chamber. Typically, the chamber reaches between 1500 and 1900 degrees during the cremation process. The body is reduced to bone fragments. After cremation the chamber cools and the contents are swept clean, any metal is collected, and the larger bone fragments are crushed. The finished product is greyish white in color and is similar to the consistency of aquarium gravel. It is coarser than dust or ashes.     </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> On average, four to six pounds of cremated remains are produced. The height of the individual has more impact on the amount of remains than the weight of the person.   The composition of cremated remains is largely calcium carbonate. There are several options of what to do with remains. It is important, and sadly often overlooked, to have a plan for cremated remains that is acceptable for the family. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Cremated remains can be buried in a cemetery. Many cemeteries allow one cremated family member to be buried in the same grave space along with another family member.  This option is a cost savings since a second burial space is not needed. It also gives family members the benefit of having a location to visit and remember.  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Ashes can also be scattered on private property or buried at sea. See <a href="http://www.epa.gov/"> epa.gov </a> for the laws regarding burial at sea. There are also services that will assist a family with carrying out a sea burial. It is always advisable to work through your family funeral home. Your local funeral director will know who to call and who can be trusted to carry out your family member’s wishes.  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> It is also possible for family members to keep the remains in an urn or in attractive jewelry pieces. The best person to help you sort out all of these decisions and choices is your funeral director or advance funeral planner. Both typically offer consultation at no cost.  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <a href="/"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Sun, 04 Dec 2022 05:00:00 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/what-to-expect-with-cremation thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/who-should-record-my-funeral-wishes <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> There is a woman who once thought that she’d like to have a hologram made of her wearing an Obi-Wan Kenobi robe for her funeral. Her four sons grew up during the Star Wars era and similar to Obi-Wan, she would love to pass along the wisdom she acquired over her lifetime to those she loves. And yes, she would also like to have the last word!  So who should this woman see to discuss and share her wishes? Should she talk to an attorney? Her financial planner? Or a funeral director? </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Both her attorney and financial planner suggested they could help but she wasn’t convinced based on her past experience. When her parents died the funeral was over before she even started to work on the finances and the estate. And there was so much attention paid to the final, final part…burial or cremation. She decided to contact her family funeral home and she met with Sue, the advance funeral planner. As it turns out, helping people get their funeral plans in place is Sue’s only job at the funeral home. And help this woman Sue did!  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> They talked about what this woman thought she wanted for her funeral plans. They talked a lot about her family – her husband, her four grown up sons, their wives and their children. Sue helped this woman see that although her sons would appreciate the Obi Wan idea, her husband would need something a little more traditional with a spiritual element. They talked about the cost and how she could keep that under control. They also talked about the burial and cremation options. Sue explained to the woman that if she wasn’t ready, she didn’t need to make a decision about burial or cremation. The woman ended up talking to her family about it and she was able to get her wishes recorded at the funeral home and she decided to use a payment plan. With her plan in place, she can go in and change her plans at any time (e.g. if she decides she wants to be cremated at a later date) and Sue will help her with that. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Sue also suggested the woman begin gathering those <em> words of wisdom </em> that she wants to share at her funeral and bring them to Sue so she can put them in the file. On the day of the woman’s funeral, the funeral directors will print these <em> words of wisdom </em> and hand them out to those attending the funeral. As it turns out, holograms aren’t available just yet, but Sue thinks they may be prior to this woman’s death. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> In the end, leaving the finances to the financial planner, the will &amp; estate planning to the attorney, and the funeral planning to the funeral home made the most sense for this woman. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <a href="/"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Sun, 04 Dec 2022 05:00:00 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/who-should-record-my-funeral-wishes thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/embalming-what-funeral-directors-do <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> What is embalming?  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Embalming is the art of slowing the decomposition of the human body. The embalming process is carried out in a clean environment, and proceeds in a fashion similar to medical procedures. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> First, the body is washed and sanitized, and the limbs are massaged to remove stiffness. The facial features are then set, eyes closed, and jaw fixed in a pleasant expression. The body’s own arterial system is used to replace blood with embalming fluid. The abdominal cavity is drained of fluid and gas and embalming fluid is injected into the organs. Once the body is prepared, the hair is washed and arranged, cosmetics are applied, and the body is dressed. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Why embalm? </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> We embalm because we are humans and it is human nature to want to see the person who died. “Seeing is believing” is often said and certainly true, especially when death is sudden or unexpected. We humans have a basic need to see in order to accept the reality of the death. Most people want and need time for a final goodbye. Embalming improves that experience and makes the body presentable. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Have we always embalmed? </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Evidence has been found that as long ago as 5000 to 6000 BC, the Chinchorro culture of Chile and Peru practiced embalming. Ancient Egyptians believed the soul would return to the body, but only if it could recognize the body it belonged to. They developed complex rites and rituals surrounding mummification, a form of embalming. Embalming was also practiced by Aztec, Mayan, Ethiopian and Tibetan cultures. Xin Zhui, a Chinese noble woman who died 160 BC, was meticulously embalmed and her body is still recognizable today. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Embalming in America began during the Civil War. Hundreds of thousands of men were dying far from home and their families. Dr. Thomas Holmes was commissioned by the Army Medical Corp to embalm the bodies of Union officers so they could be returned home for their wives and mothers to gaze upon them one last time. Holmes embalmed more than 4,000 soldiers during the Civil War.    </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Is embalming required by law? </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> No law requires a body to be embalmed. However, most funeral homes require embalming with some service options. Your funeral director will be pleased to discuss all options with you. Today, embalming is standard practice in Canada and the United States.  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <a href="/"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Sun, 04 Dec 2022 05:00:00 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/embalming-what-funeral-directors-do thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/who-will-take-care-of-my-funeral-plans <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> It is not uncommon for people to ask themselves, “Since I never had any children, who will take care of my funeral plans?” That is all the more reason to preplan your own funeral! </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Each state has laws that say who will “own” your body when you die.  The “owner” is responsible for making and paying for your funeral service and “final disposition”. Final disposition is simply what happens to your body in the end and those choices include burial, cremation or donation. Regardless of disposition, a funeral service with or without a religious component will take place before or after disposition. These are all choices the responsible person will make.  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> If you are to be cremated, there is still the matter of what will be done with your cremated remains. They can be kept by a family member, scattered on private property, buried in a cemetery, or kept in a columbarium niche. Again, this is a choice the responsible person will need to make. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> In most states the responsible person is your spouse. When there is no legal marriage then your parent will be responsible. If your parents are deceased, then your child will take the lead. When there are no children then your eldest sibling will be responsible.  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> As you can see, this system only works if you and your family are all of like mind regarding the funeral and you are on the same page regarding faith. Since this is not always the case, you can break the legal chain and designate a person of your choice to carry out your wishes.  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> It’s not at all difficult or even expensive. You just need to call the funeral home of your choice, ask for an appointment with the person who does the pre-planning. Be sure to tell that individual that you want to designate someone to carry out your wishes. He or she will need to get the proper paperwork for you to complete this task.  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> This is also a perfect time to talk to the pre-planning person at the funeral home about your ideas regarding both your funeral service and your final disposition. A funeral professional can help you get everything written down so that your designated person will know just what to do. Since this person will also bear the financial burden for your funeral service and burial or cremation, you will want to talk to the advance funeral planner about eliminating that burden by prefunding your plan. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <a href="/"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Sun, 04 Dec 2022 05:00:00 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/who-will-take-care-of-my-funeral-plans thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/what-to-look-for-when-you-are-buying-final-expense-insurance <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Cost is important, but it’s not the whole story. Take a look at the premium, the amount you will pay each month, how long will you pay that amount? It is not uncommon to pay until you are 100 or even older. Will you be able to pay that amount each month as you age? What if you live to be 100? Will the benefit stay in place? How much will you have paid in by that time? It’s not unheard of for people to end up paying more than they will receive in death benefits.    </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Look at the coverage. How much will be paid on your death? Most policies are for a fixed amount your family will receive when you die. This is the death benefit. How soon will you be covered for the full amount? Sometimes you will need to make payments for as long as two years before you would be eligible for the full death benefit. Often the death benefit stays the same over the course of your lifetime. So, as you age and the price of funerals increases, your policy is at risk of falling short and not providing your family with enough to cover the cost of your funeral.    </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Before you sign anything, call your local funeral home. Ask for an appointment with the funeral professional who takes care of  <em> advance funeral planning. </em>  When you meet with this individual be straight forward. Share your financial situation. See what the funeral home has to offer.    </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Most of the time the funeral home’s funding program is a little more per month but you make payments for a much shorter period of time. So, you pay much less in the long run. If you are in good health you will most likely be covered as soon as the policy is issued. Some funeral homes even offer a cost guarantee which means you have no worries about the rising cost of funerals.   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> It’s always worth the extra time to be sure you are getting the best final expense coverage you can afford. The one that will really be there for your family when it’s needed.  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <a href="/"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Sun, 04 Dec 2022 05:00:00 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/what-to-look-for-when-you-are-buying-final-expense-insurance thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/make-family-the-foundation-for-funeral-planning <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> There are two ways to take care of funeral planning: 1) you can plan your own funeral in advance or 2) your survivors can plan your funeral for you after your death. Regardless of when it is planned, or who plans the funeral, the planning needs to start with your family. Your family should be the foundation for funeral planning.  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> After all, the funeral is not really for the deceased…it is for those who survive. We show respect for all human life in the manner in which we care for the body that housed the soul or spirit of our loved one. Respect and dignity for the body is important. The funeral helps those of us who survive by changing our focus from the cause of the death to the life that was lived. The funeral is the beginning of our grieving process and that is why funerals are so important. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> If you are planning in advance for your own final remembrance, begin by thinking of those who love you. Your spouse, your children, your grandchildren, your friends and even your co-workers, what will they remember? What will make them smile? What will comfort them? What will they need? When they think of you what will come to mind? How is faith a part of their lives? </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> If you are planning a funeral for a deceased family member, involve the children, grandchildren and even close friends in the process. Ask them how they remember their friend or relative. Remember, we have all had a unique relationship with the deceased, so what you want to remember may be different from what your brother remembers. Ask your funeral director for ideas so they can help you capture and express the unique personality of your family member in the service plan. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> For many years funeral planning started with a different set of questions. It started with questions about the faith. <em> What church did your mother belong to? </em> It followed with questions about the decedent’s wishes. <em> What do you think your dad would want? </em> These are still good valid questions but basing the entire funeral plan on only these aspects may not touch every family member. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Mother may have preferred that no one see her after death, but if you, her daughter, need to see her, speak up. If you don’t share your brother’s faith and you need to hear a eulogy that is all about his life or see pictures that bring back your time growing up together, speak up. The imprint of the funeral sticks with the surviving family. It is literally the last memory we carry of someone we loved. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <a href="/"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Sun, 04 Dec 2022 05:00:00 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/make-family-the-foundation-for-funeral-planning thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/food-and-funerals <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Why is food such a fundamental part of any funeral? </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Food provides comfort and strength. A gift of food shows that we care. It’s natural to connect food with the healing process of a funeral. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> When should you give food? What’s helpful without being overwhelming?  How do you accept food graciously without having to buy a second refrigerator?   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> If you’re helping a friend who is dealing with the death of a loved one, a gift of food is appropriate before the funeral, at the conclusion of the funeral, and even weeks or months after the funeral.  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> As you think about your gift, be aware that your friend may not even know they’re hungry. They likely won’t be able to tell you what they want or need. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Take the initiative and make it easy on them. Call with a simple offer that can be changed to meet the needs of those on the receiving end. You might say something like this: </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <em> “I’d like to bring your family dinner tomorrow evening. I thought I’d bring you a turkey roast with a broccoli casserole. Will that work for you? I’ll bring dinner by around 10:30 a.m. It’ll be all ready for you to warm in the oven or microwave.”  </em> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> When you’re on the receiving end, be gracious, but honest. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Your friends want to help you. If their offer won’t be helpful, give them an opportunity to make a different suggestion. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <em> “Thank you for your offer, but we’re all set for the next few days. May I have a rain check?” </em> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> If you’re part of a close circle of friends, consider coordinating with others in your group to cover the family’s food needs on different days and with a variety of dishes. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Consider breakfast food. A basket with granola, muffins, or a breakfast casserole may be a nice change.   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Sheet pan dinners, where the entire meal is cooked on one pan in the oven, are easy for both parties. You can find lots of recipes online. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> If you don’t cook, consider giving a gift card for a local restaurant that offers take out.  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Whatever you do, don’t forget your friend after the funeral is over. Most people find sitting alone at the dinner table one of the bigger challenges of their bereavement. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> A loaf of your famous zucchini bread will be greatly appreciated and it’ll be even better if you can share it together over a cup of tea. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <a href="/"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Sun, 04 Dec 2022 05:00:00 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/food-and-funerals thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/control-funeral-costs-by-planning-ahead <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> How does planning for your funeral in advance save you money? Doesn’t it just let the funeral home make money on your money? How big a part should emotion play in your funeral selections? </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> First, let’s be honest. Emotion is not a bad thing. Some life events <em> should </em> move us emotionally. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Marriage, birth, and death all appropriately tug at our heartstrings. But the cost of all three can also get out of hand if you make all the decisions when emotions are running high. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Put the word “wedding” in front of anything and the cost doubles. If you’ve ever planned a wedding you know that the dress will cost you half as much if you buy it far in advance instead of just before you need it. The same is true of funerals. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> When you and your spouse sit down together with the funeral director, well in advance, you’ll feel a little emotion as you consider the reality of your death. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> But that little tug is nothing compared to what your husband or wife will feel if you don’t prepare in advance and they’re making those decisions alone hours after you’ve died. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Emotional overspending happens. Funeral directors don’t make it happen. In fact, they don’t like it either. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Advance planning allows you to make all the decisions that determine the final cost. Making them together with cool heads and warm hearts saves dollars. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Planning ahead eliminates the excessive spending that can occur when someone is in a heightened emotional state. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Think back to wedding planning. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Starting early can also help you absorb the cost over a longer period of time. That means you don’t drag the wedding debt into your brand new marriage. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> When you plan your funeral in advance, you will also have the option of paying for it over time. That means you don’t have to take money from your savings or investments and your survivors won’t have the financial burden of paying for your funeral days after your passing. Advance planning eliminates the need for a lump sum payment when death occurs. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> All money set aside in advance for a funeral should be held with a third party. Nearly all funeral homes participate in programs that hold the dollars in either insurance or a trust product until the death occurs. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> The funeral home should not have access to your funds and the insurance products they use should have an increasing death benefit to help offset inflation, providing a cushion for increasing funeral costs. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Consult with an advance planning specialist for more details. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <a href="/"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Sun, 04 Dec 2022 05:00:00 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/control-funeral-costs-by-planning-ahead thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/preplanning-your-funeral-in-your-60s <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> According to a National Funeral Directors Association survey, more than half (62.5%) of us expect to participate in making our own funeral arrangements. And yet, less than a quarter of us have actually acted on that impulse. Not really so surprising since making funeral arrangements can literally be the very last thing we do. We can put it off right up to the end!    </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> So, when do you think you should just go ahead and get it done? How about when you are critically ill? Or, maybe before you go on that cruise? Does when you go into the nursing home seem too late? How about as you are preparing for retirement?  Actually, sooner is better than later for several reasons.  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> First, there is no down side to having your arrangements in place. If something new comes along or you change your mind about what you want, you can always make changes to your plan. If you move, you just move your plan. Nothing is carved in stone.  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Second, there are some real up-sides to getting your funeral plan written and on file at the funeral home. For one thing, you just never know. people do die unexpectedly. And then there is the money. Historically funerals, like almost everything, have gone up in price over the years. The funeral of today will likely almost double in cost in 10 years. Why are you waiting?  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Prearranged funerals are often funded in a way that buffers or even eliminates the impact of rising prices. You buy at today’s prices and you are done. When you plan in advance you also have the benefit of being able to pay over a specified period of time (you choose). As you age your choices become more limited. When you make your arrangements while you are in reasonably good health the cost of your funeral can be paid in full should you die before you’ve completed your payment cycle. Again, sooner is better than later.    </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> The early 60’s is a good time to visit your neighborhood funeral home and get your plan written and on file. This is when you will get the most out of the funding options.  It is also when you are likely to have a good idea of what you will want in the way of services. At this age you are grounded, and you are likely to still be earning income. Making payments for a bit will hardly be noticed. Then when you retire, and take that cruise, you can just enjoy. You’re all set to just enjoy the rest of what life has to offer.  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <a href="/"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Sun, 04 Dec 2022 05:00:00 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/preplanning-your-funeral-in-your-60s thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/how-to-say-the-right-thing-at-a-funeral First, take a deep breath and relax. We all worry that we’ll say the wrong thing.   Second, know that you don’t have to be eloquent. While we wish it were so, you can’t make everything all better with a few words.   Here are a few simple ideas to keep in mind to be sure you say the right thing when attending a funeral.   Don’t underestimate the power of your presence. It’s important. Just being there says more than you can know.   Keep your words simple. “I’m sorry for your loss” may be all that is needed.   Share your story. If you have a brief anecdote about how you interacted with the deceased, share it. Knowing how her sister lit up her workplace may just be the most comforting thing a mourner can hear.    Use the deceased person’s name. “Mary always made me laugh.” “John had the longest drive, too bad it wasn’t always straight.” “We always knew when Big Bad Byron was in the plant, everyone was on their toes.” “Nobody made better chocolate chip cookies than your mother.”   Avoid using common platitudes. Resist the temptation to tell the bereaved how they must feel -- “grateful that he is in a better place,” “relieved that his suffering is over,” “grateful for a long life,” etc.   We don’t know how that wife, husband, mother, son, or daughter actually feels. Just say you’re sorry for their loss.   Let them tell you how they feel and accept it with a nod or hug.   Don’t forget about listening.  Listen to understand, not just to hear. Listen to show you care, not to judge. Listen with love, even when you’ve heard the story before.   www.plattsfuneralhome.com <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> First, take a deep breath and relax. We all worry that we’ll say the wrong thing. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Second, know that you don’t have to be eloquent. While we wish it were so, you can’t make everything all better with a few words. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Here are a few simple ideas to keep in mind to be sure you say the right thing when attending a funeral. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <b> Don’t underestimate the power of your presence. </b> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> It’s important. Just being there says more than you can know. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <b> Keep your words simple. </b> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> “I’m sorry for your loss” may be all that is needed. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <b> Share your story. </b> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> If you have a brief anecdote about how you interacted with the deceased, share it. Knowing how her sister lit up her workplace may just be the most comforting thing a mourner can hear.  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <b> Use the deceased person’s name. </b> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> “Mary always made me laugh.” “John had the longest drive, too bad it wasn’t always straight.” “We always knew when Big Bad Byron was in the plant, everyone was on their toes.” “Nobody made better chocolate chip cookies than your mother.” </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <b> Avoid using common platitudes. </b> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Resist the temptation to tell the bereaved how they must feel -- “grateful that he is in a better place,” “relieved that his suffering is over,” “grateful for a long life,” etc. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> We don’t know how that wife, husband, mother, son, or daughter actually feels. Just say you’re sorry for their loss. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Let them tell you how they feel and accept it with a nod or hug. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <b> Don’t forget about listening.  </b> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Listen to understand, not just to hear. Listen to show you care, not to judge. Listen with love, even when you’ve heard the story before. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <a href="/"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Sun, 04 Dec 2022 05:00:00 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/how-to-say-the-right-thing-at-a-funeral thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/should-i-go-to-the-funeral Why should you attend a funeral? The presence of family and friends at the funeral is appreciated. We gather to acknowledge a life that was lived. We gather to comfort those for whom life has just been forever changed by the death of someone they loved.   If you care for one or more of the survivors, you should attend the funeral (even if you did not know the person who died). Your friend will appreciate your presence. Being there shows that you acknowledge that your friend’s life has changed in some way. Your presence shows your support.   If you knew the person who died but do not know their family, you should attend the funeral. Your presence demonstrates your respect for human life in general and the life of the person who died in particular. Perhaps you worked with the person who died. It is comforting for the surviving family to know the person they loved was also appreciated at work.    If you are hesitating because you are unfamiliar with the person’s faith and fear you will embarrass yourself or feel like a fish out of water, go anyway. You will be fine. You can prepare a little in advance by looking for some information online about the funeral customs of the family’s faith.    When should you stay home? Anytime you are going to a funeral and you know it will make one or more members of the immediate family uncomfortable, perhaps you shouldn’t go. If going is more about you and less about the deceased or the surviving family, don’t go. A funeral is not a place to prove a point.   www.plattsfuneralhome.com <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Why should you attend a funeral? The presence of family and friends at the funeral is appreciated. We gather to acknowledge a life that was lived. We gather to comfort those for whom life has just been forever changed by the death of someone they loved. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> If you care for one or more of the survivors, you should attend the funeral (even if you did not know the person who died). Your friend will appreciate your presence. Being there shows that you acknowledge that your friend’s life has changed in some way. Your presence shows your support. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> If you knew the person who died but do not know their family, you should attend the funeral. Your presence demonstrates your respect for human life in general and the life of the person who died in particular. Perhaps you worked with the person who died. It is comforting for the surviving family to know the person they loved was also appreciated at work.  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> If you are hesitating because you are unfamiliar with the person’s faith and fear you will embarrass yourself or feel like a fish out of water, go anyway. You will be fine. You can prepare a little in advance by looking for some information online about the funeral customs of the family’s faith.  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> When should you stay home? Anytime you are going to a funeral and you know it will make one or more members of the immediate family uncomfortable, perhaps you shouldn’t go. If going is more about you and less about the deceased or the surviving family, don’t go. A funeral is not a place to prove a point. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <a href="/"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Sun, 04 Dec 2022 05:00:00 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/should-i-go-to-the-funeral thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/what-do-funeral-directors-do <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <em> It’s late, why is the light on at the funeral home? </em> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Today, there was a funeral. People cried. Tissues were crumpled and left on the tables.  Flower petals fell to the floor. Now, the cleaning staff is making things tidy for the family who will be here tomorrow. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <em> It’s late, why is the light on at the funeral home? </em> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Someone in our town died away from home, the funeral director is traveling many miles to bring him home and into the funeral home’s care. The light is on in anticipation of his safe return. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <em> It’s late, why is the light on at the funeral home? </em> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Hospice called. The teacher who taught the funeral director -- and you -- in the third grade isn’t expected to make it through the night. He’s catching up on paperwork while he keeps vigil. Soon he’ll be called to the home and it will be his turn to take care of the teacher. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <em> It’s late, why is the light on at the funeral home? </em> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> There are computer problems. The video tribute file a family sent won’t work. We’re staying late to make it right for their service. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <em> It’s late, why is the light on at the funeral home? </em> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> It was a busy day today and we still need to notify Social Security and the Veteran’s Administration of Mr. Smith’s death. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <em> It’s late, why is the light on at the funeral home? </em> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> There’s been a terrible accident. We’re doing our best to make a loved one presentable so that they can say goodbye with dignity. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <em> It’s late, why is the light on at the funeral home? </em> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> The obituary the Jones’s gave us for their father is full of misspellings. We need to correct them and get it to the paper. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <em> It’s late, why is the light on at the funeral home? </em> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> We’re reviewing all of the details for tomorrow’s service. When will the celebrant arrive? Do we have drivers for the cars? Who will be the pallbearers? </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <em> It’s late, why is the light on at the funeral home? </em> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> We’re checking tomorrow’s weather in case we need the umbrellas. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <em> It’s late, why is the light on at the funeral home? </em> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> The light is on because your neighbor, the funeral director, is pacing the floor. He can’t sleep. Tomorrow, he will oversee the service for his daughter’s classmate. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Sometimes death is just too close, even for him. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <a href="/"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Sun, 04 Dec 2022 05:00:00 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/what-do-funeral-directors-do thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/cheap-funerals <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Funerals, like everything from paper towels to cars, come in cheap and expensive. It’s not as easy as you might think to figure out what qualifies as cheap when it comes to funerals. This is due, in part, because we don’t all have the same idea of what a “funeral” is. For some folks, a funeral includes a gathering of friends and family the evening before, a trip to the church with the body, a graveside committal service and a luncheon for all attendees following the burial.  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> When families begin to talk about the cost of a funeral, they need to include all the hardware (casket and vault) that goes with all these steps and sometimes the real estate (burial plot) as well. For sure, you know that what you choose to eat for lunch is going to make a difference in the price tag. So, the first thing a person needs to do when shopping for cheap funerals is have a talk with the decision makers in the family and decide what you are looking for in a funeral. What does your family want, need, and expect? </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> That done, you gotta know cheap is cheap. Think about those paper towels. You don’t have the same experience with the cheap paper towels as you do with ones that cost a bit more. If you are paying significantly less, you should expect less. Less staff with less education, less time spent with you and your family, less support. You should expect less to be included in the cost you were quoted and more to cost extra, over and above the cost you were quoted. So, in the end cheap funerals, like cheap paper towels (where you end up using twice as much), can cost MORE. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> That does not mean that you can’t find a good value. Talk to your local funeral director. Instead of calling on the phone and asking, “How much does a funeral cost?”, call and ask for a meeting. Go in prepared with what you want in a funeral, share your budget. Be honest and clear about what you want and need. Also bear in mind, you aren’t really looking for cheap funerals - plural. You are looking for a one-time experience (one funeral) to honor the life of someone close to you. Look for value not cheap. If you are looking for a cheap funeral for yourself remember the funeral is for the living, the family and friends. The burial itself is the only part that is for the individual who died. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <a href="/"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Sun, 04 Dec 2022 05:00:00 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/cheap-funerals thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/cheap-cremation <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> How cheap is cheap cremation? How do they do it so cheap? How is cheap cremation different from the cremation services provided by your local funeral home?  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> The least expensive form of cremation is direct cremation. Direct cremation means that the body is picked up from the place of death and taken directly to the cremation facility.  Cremated remains are returned to the family in a simple container. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Direct cremation takes care of the body but does nothing for the family left behind. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> All funeral homes offer the option of a direct cremation. So, what is missing? Service. There is no help with a memorial service, gathering or celebration of the life.  Most families need more assistance. They need and want to come together and remember. However, in most circumstances, families need help putting together a memorial service after losing a beloved family member. Family members are stunned after a sudden loss and exhausted when death follows a long illness. They appreciate help. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Cremation societies may advertise very low-cost cremations. Very low cost usually means low staff levels, unskilled labor, people who have not been trained to serve families and no service.  When you sign up ask who will pick up the deceased. Ask if more than one body is transported to the cremation facility at a time. Ask how you can be sure the cremated remains you will pick up will be those of your family member. Compare the cost of the cremation society cremation to the direct cremation cost at your funeral home. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Finally, consider your family situation. Do all your family members live in town? Do you have children away at college? Won’t that child want to have a final good-bye with her grandmother before nana is cremated? The funeral home usually can make that good-bye happen. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Your local funeral home offers more options and more service than a cremation society. Saving money may be important but cheap just might not be what your family needs. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <a href="/"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Sun, 04 Dec 2022 05:00:00 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/cheap-cremation thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/too-little-too-late-a-memorial-gone-wrong <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Yesterday, Jane was on duty as a tour guide at a lovely little pre-revolutionary war church in rural Virginia. It was late in the afternoon when a youngish woman wearing shorts and a Cubs ball hat stepped into the visitor’s center looking lost. Thinking that she might need directions, Jane quietly approached to offer her assistance. The seemingly lost young lady said she just wanted to go in the church.   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Since visitors were not allowed in the church without a docent, Jane began to accompany her guest to her destination. Striking up a conversation, Jane quickly discovered there was a story behind the sad eyes of her visitor. She revealed her name was Stella and she was here from Chicago. The pair talked a bit and Jane started to tell her about the church. As they walked and talked, Jane casually asked, “What brings you to this part of Virginia?”  Stella spoke in a soft tone revealing she was here for a “sort of” memorial service for her mother. The pain was obvious on her face with her lips quivering and eyes glistening with small pools of tears.    </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> They walked into the church and sat in one of the high back pews carved from pine when George Washington was just three years old. The sun was shining through the wavy glass windows. Jane took Stella’s hands and asked her, “Would you like to tell me a little bit about your mother?” The floodgates opened. She talked for an hour. She told the story that was her Mom.    </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Stella was the single daughter. She had been the caregiver for her mother who died ten months ago. Her brother lived abroad and her sister and her family traveled frequently. Because it was hard to get them together, they all decided to forgo a funeral service and ship Mom’s cremated remains to Virginia for burial. It seemed, at the time, to make more sense to get together later.    </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> They agreed on June for the get together since that’s when their family typically came to visit mom and dad in this part of Virginia. They all stayed at a local inn and had dinner at their parent’s favorite restaurant. It was nice, but something was missing. There was no service. No words were spoken for Stella’s mother. It wasn’t enough for her. It was too little and too late. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> It was obvious to Jane that Stella was distraught. There had been no closure. Jane’s heart broke for her. Still, she couldn’t help but wonder why. Why was there no service? Even something small, private and simple would have been better than nothing. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Jane knew some people had a fear of planning a service. They don’t know how to or what to plan. They are at a loss. They should have they called the local funeral home for help. The funeral director could have helped them find someone to pull together a brief ceremony at the graveside or in the chapel. There could have even been a service in the lovely little church where Stella sat and cried with a stranger. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <a href="/"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Sun, 04 Dec 2022 05:00:00 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/too-little-too-late-a-memorial-gone-wrong thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/what-to-expect-a-funeral <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> We’ve all been there. Going to a funeral can be a little daunting, especially if it’s your first or if it’s been awhile since you attended one. Let’s talk a little bit about some of the terms you will hear and what you can expect in general. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> There’s a great deal of variety in funeral service today. The funeral home works with the surviving family to help them choose service options that reflect their lifestyle and belief system. The spouse, parents, or children of the deceased determine the content of the service. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> The service typically includes: </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> The gathering may be held the evening before the service or the same day as the service. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> The religious part of the service may be held in the funeral home chapel or in the family’s place of worship. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> At the conclusion of the service, a procession will usually travel to the graveside where the casketed body will be buried. Cremated remains may be buried, placed in a niche, presented to a family member for keeping, or scattered. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> The committal service is often followed by a meal at the church, the funeral home’s celebration center, the family home, or a restaurant. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> If you are attending a gathering or visitation that takes place before the service, the body may or may not be present. When the body is present in an open casket, attendees will usually approach the casket briefly and silently say a few words of farewell or prayer. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> The family may choose to receive their guests informally and casually engage in conversation as they circulate among those attending or they may choose to receive guests in a more formal receiving line.  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> If you are attending a memorial service, the body will not be present. A memorial service may take place weeks or even months after the passing and may or may not include the presence of cremated remains. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> The family may choose to have a memorial service for a variety of reasons. Some religions require that the body be buried immediately, necessitating service after burial. Some families just need more time to come together. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> How we celebrate a life is often less formal today. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> The service may include pictures and music that reflect the lifetime of the deceased. Work or interests of the deceased are often reflected in objects placed in the room or favors shared with attendees. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Attendees may participate by sharing memories of the deceased. A family member or celebrant may also tell the life story in the form of a eulogy. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Funerals are an important part of the grief journey that all families must travel when they lose a family member. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> We attend to support and help the family members transition their thoughts from the cause of death to the life’s legacy. This is so they can begin their long healing process. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Your attendance is appreciated and important. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <a href="/"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Sun, 04 Dec 2022 05:00:00 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/what-to-expect-a-funeral thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/dad-died-what-do-i-do-with-the-pills Prescription medication is expensive. Just that fact can be an understandable motivation for some risky business. When my father died, my mother was asking everyone, “Aren’t you on blood pressure medicine?  You take this heart pill don’t you?  What do you take for depression?” Her plan, no waste. My mom will also save four string beans when dinner is over. The beans I can live with, the pills I think we are treading on thin ice. It’s just best to follow the FDA recommendations.    In order to keep drugs from falling into the wrong hands (children, pets, and addicts) the FDA recommends that you dispose of all medication as soon as possible. They suggest three options.    Take Back Programs:    These are periodic events scheduled in your community for a specified date and time. In addition, some communities have permanent collection sites, you can find the location of permanent collection sites at the FDA website.    Disposal in Household Trash:    Many medications can be disposed of in the household trash following this process.    Mix - the pills with dirt, cat litter, or coffee grounds. Do not crush the pills  Seal – the mixture in a plastic bag  Throw – the bag in the household trash  Scratch – scratch the information on the prescription label off the bottle and discard    Flushing down the toilet:   FDA recommends that a short list of drugs be immediately flushed. These drugs are dangerously addictive for children and others who have not been prescribed the medication. A complete list of these drugs is posted on the FDA website.   www.plattsfuneralhome.com <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Prescription medication is expensive. Just that fact can be an understandable motivation for some risky business. When my father died, my mother was asking everyone, “Aren’t you on blood pressure medicine?  You take this heart pill don’t you?  What do you take for depression?” Her plan, no waste. My mom will also save four string beans when dinner is over. The beans I can live with, the pills I think we are treading on thin ice. It’s just best to follow the FDA recommendations.  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> In order to keep drugs from falling into the wrong hands (children, pets, and addicts) the FDA recommends that you dispose of all medication as soon as possible. They suggest three options.  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <b> Take Back Programs </b> :    </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> These are periodic events scheduled in your community for a specified date and time. In addition, some communities have permanent collection sites, you can find the location of permanent collection sites at the <a href="https://www.fda.gov/drugs/disposal-unused-medicines-what-you-should-know/drug-disposal-drug-take-back-locations"> FDA website </a> .  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <b> Disposal in Household Trash:   </b>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Many medications can be disposed of in the household trash following this process.  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Mix - the pills with dirt, cat litter, or coffee grounds. Do not crush the pills  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Seal – the mixture in a plastic bag  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Throw – the bag in the household trash  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Scratch – scratch the information on the prescription label off the bottle and discard  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <b> Flushing down the toilet:  </b>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> FDA recommends that a short list of drugs be immediately flushed. These drugs are dangerously addictive for children and others who have not been prescribed the medication. A complete list of these drugs is posted on the <a href="https://www.fda.gov/drugs/safe-disposal-medicines/disposal-unused-medicines-what-you-should-know"> FDA website </a> . </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <a href="/"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Sun, 04 Dec 2022 05:00:00 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/dad-died-what-do-i-do-with-the-pills thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/what-do-you-do-with-cremated-remains <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> What happens when no one decides what to do with the six pounds of cremated remains that are left following the funeral or memorial service? You might be surprised at some of the unusual places where they show up. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> For example, let’s just say you buy a swell little red two-seater sports car and drive that baby home. Of course, you are going to give her a good sprucing up. When you get around to cleaning the trunk you find a non-descript little plastic box. Close inspection reveals it’s full of a chunky greyish white substance. On the bottom of the box you notice there is a label and a name! OMG! You have what’s left of someone you never knew in your trunk! Or, you buy a house and it looks like someone left a nice vase in the attic … you get where I am going with this, right? As life moves on, sometimes well-meaning people lose track of the box or urn they were looking after. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Thrift stores and Goodwill are often the recipient of cremated remains. And guess what? They don’t want your great uncle Henry. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> How can this be? Well, family members are not always comfortable with the scattering plan the deceased requested. It’s hard to dispose of what remains of someone you loved. Perhaps the plan wasn’t even realistic. The sand trap on the seventh hole is really not an easy place to “scatter” six pounds of crushed bone fragments. It’s not sand. All too often, cremated remains find their way back to the funeral home years after the funeral service took place. It’s the boom-a-rang effect, leaving the funeral home with the task of tracking down a living relative. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> The moral of this story is simple. When someone you love tells you they “just want to be cremated” ask this question, “And then what shall we do with your ashes?”. If you are thinking about cremation don’t leave your plan partially complete. Talk to your funeral director or advance funeral planner (both can be found at your local funeral home) about your options for after the cremation. Make sure the family members you designate to carry out your final plan are comfortable and able to take care of the final resting place for your ashes. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Finally, if you have a family member’s cremated ashes in the attic, trunk, or somewhere unusual and you need help with a final plan… call the funeral home. They can help you make choices. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <a href="/"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Sun, 04 Dec 2022 05:00:00 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/what-do-you-do-with-cremated-remains thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/writing-the-thank-you-notes Writing thank you notes is usually one of the very first “after the funeral” tasks you will undertake. You may be surprised to find that your brain/hand coordination is not working so well. You sit there with pen in hand and well-formed thoughts in your head, but somehow it all gets lost between the head and the paper. Don’t despair. This is normal and it’s all part of the grief journey. You are not thinking straight now, but you will again soon.    First, let’s tackle who gets a “thank you” and then I can give you a few wordy ideas to help you get started. Anyone who made a donation or sent flowers should get a thank you note from a family member. You will also want to send a note to people who helped. Maybe they provided food or took care of the dog for you or picked up people at the airport. All of those folks should receive a note of thanks. You do not need to send notes to people who sent condolence cards, emails, or texts.     Your words can be brief. No one expects a long letter from you at this time. It is just nice to know that the flowers arrived, or the donation was received. Your kind friends just need to hear thank you.    Thank you for all your kindness ….   Your help meant so much to us….  We all loved the broccoli, thank you for taking care of us ….  Your flowers were so beautiful and such a comfort to us ….    For some, these are written the day after the funeral. Everyone sits around the kitchen table to write the thank you notes and everyone laughs as more than a few notes are torn and tossed in the trash. This may be the first laughter heard in several days.      www.plattsfuneralhome.com <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Writing thank you notes is usually one of the very first “after the funeral” tasks you will undertake. You may be surprised to find that your brain/hand coordination is not working so well. You sit there with pen in hand and well-formed thoughts in your head, but somehow it all gets lost between the head and the paper. Don’t despair. This is normal and it’s all part of the grief journey. You are not thinking straight now, but you will again soon.  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> First, let’s tackle who gets a “thank you” and then I can give you a few wordy ideas to help you get started. Anyone who made a donation or sent flowers should get a thank you note from a family member. You will also want to send a note to people who helped. Maybe they provided food or took care of the dog for you or picked up people at the airport. All of those folks should receive a note of thanks. You do not need to send notes to people who sent condolence cards, emails, or texts.   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Your words can be brief. No one expects a long letter from you at this time. It is just nice to know that the flowers arrived, or the donation was received. Your kind friends just need to hear thank you.  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <em> Thank you for all your kindness ….  </em>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <em> Your help meant so much to us…. </em>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <em> We all loved the broccoli, thank you for taking care of us …. </em>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <em> Your flowers were so beautiful and such a comfort to us …. </em>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> For some, these are written the day after the funeral. Everyone sits around the kitchen table to write the thank you notes and everyone laughs as more than a few notes are torn and tossed in the trash. This may be the first laughter heard in several days.  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <a href="/"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Sun, 04 Dec 2022 05:00:00 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/writing-the-thank-you-notes thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/how-much-do-funerals-cost <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> For most of us, one of our first questions when we think we need a funeral home soon is, “How much will it cost?” It’s understandable that everyone wants a simple answer to this question. Unfortunately, there is no one simple answer. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Think of the last time you bought a pair of shoes. It’s not really helpful to know that the average cost of a pair of shoes is $75.00. So, what does an “average” pair of shoes look like? Shoes come in many different sizes, colors and styles. You wouldn’t expect to call the shoe store and ask, “How much does a pair of shoes cost?” Everyone needs some help finding the right fit for his or her feet. You also understand that you’ll need to share more information about the kind of shoe you are seeking before you find the cost. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> It’s the same with funerals. The funeral you choose will need to fit your family’s needs as well as your budget. The funeral director will help you with both. You will be pleased to know funeral homes are required to have standardized prices for everything they do. This price list must be printed and available for you. You should also take comfort in knowing there will be a range of prices associated with the choices you will be making. The funeral director wants you to be satisfied with both the service you select and with the costs associated with those services. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> As soon as you are able, it is a good idea to call the funeral home and ask to set up a time to meet with a funeral director to review your options and prices. There should be no cost for this meeting. This is the best way to assure that you understand what is involved with the various services so that you can get the best value for your dollar.  You can schedule this kind of meeting with as many funeral homes as you desire. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> At first, this may seem like a lot of work. The reality is, however, that you’ll obtain far more information by meeting with the funeral director versus searching online or making phone calls. You’ll save time, too. Don’t wait to set up that meeting if you think you’ll need a funeral home soon. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <a href="/"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Sun, 27 Nov 2022 05:00:00 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/how-much-do-funerals-cost thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/funerals-are-for-saints-and-sinners   These days we’re hearing a lot about life celebrations. A funeral is a ceremony for someone who has died and the survivors. A celebration of life is a funeral with a celebratory feel and it may or may not have a faith-based component. Celebrating the life of the accomplished, the kind, and the generous feels natural. It feels like something we should do.   On the other hand, what do we do about the “broken” people? The bullies, the addicted, the angry, or those who just never got it all together. What do we do when they die? Most of us have one or more imperfect people in our immediate circle.    The loss of one of these folks is real and it hurts. Because they are gone, our lives will not be the same. We may be relieved of a burden, but we are also without hope. The hope that we will get a hug or a kind word is gone. The hope that a child will get sober and realize the potential you knew was there is gone. The hope that we will hear “I’m sorry” or understand the reason behind the addiction, the anger, or the hatred is now gone. It’s painful. Someone we love has died. Having a funeral will help.   It can be hard to know just what to do when “celebration” doesn’t feel right. This may be especially true if a faith-based service does not feel like the right fit. Ask your funeral director for help. There are funeral celebrants who are not attached to a church who can help you find the right fit. Your funeral director can help you find the right person.    Funerals are always for the survivors. Regardless of how the deceased spent their time on this earth, survivors need to gather with each other and their friends.  Everyone needs to share in a safe place. All survivors grieve. We all need the opportunity to begin our grief journey in a healthy way. A funeral, a ceremony for someone who has died, is the beginning of that journey.   www.plattsfuneralhome.com <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> These days we’re hearing a lot about life celebrations. A funeral is a ceremony for someone who has died and the survivors. A celebration of life is a funeral with a celebratory feel and it may or may not have a faith-based component. Celebrating the life of the accomplished, the kind, and the generous feels natural. It feels like something we should do. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> On the other hand, what do we do about the “broken” people? The bullies, the addicted, the angry, or those who just never got it all together. What do we do when they die? Most of us have one or more imperfect people in our immediate circle.  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> The loss of one of these folks is real and it hurts. Because they are gone, our lives will not be the same. We may be relieved of a burden, but we are also without hope. The hope that we will get a hug or a kind word is gone. The hope that a child will get sober and realize the potential you knew was there is gone. The hope that we will hear “I’m sorry” or understand the reason behind the addiction, the anger, or the hatred is now gone. It’s painful. Someone we love has died. Having a funeral will help. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> It can be hard to know just what to do when “celebration” doesn’t feel right. This may be especially true if a faith-based service does not feel like the right fit. Ask your funeral director for help. There are funeral celebrants who are not attached to a church who can help you find the right fit. Your funeral director can help you find the right person.  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Funerals are <u> always </u> for the survivors. Regardless of how the deceased spent their time on this earth, survivors need to gather with each other and their friends.  Everyone needs to share in a safe place. All survivors grieve. We all need the opportunity to begin our grief journey in a healthy way. A funeral, a ceremony for someone who has died, is the beginning of that journey. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <a href="/"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Sun, 27 Nov 2022 05:00:00 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/funerals-are-for-saints-and-sinners thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/finding-your-joy <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Even months after the funeral it’s not uncommon to feel just not exactly right. We all lose our way from time to time. Things happen and we can’t find our JOY. It’s not really so much gone, as it is misplaced. Life feels dull and the days seem to drag.  No matter what the circumstances, if you look for it, you can find your own personal JOY again. However, you will have to work a bit to find it and reconnect.    </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> To begin, you must put on your little super power cape and take control. You’ll have to take ownership of your joy. Terrible things happen to us in life. Illness of a loved one, your own illness, even the death of a loved one, there really are a lot of things to be unhappy about. You can, however, experience joy in spite of adversity.  Make a positive decision to take your personal joy into your own hands and get it back!  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Start by connecting with your senses, hearing, touch, smell, taste, and sight.  Take them one by one and dig in. What sounds bring you joy? Maybe it’s the sound of little kids on the playground, or the Beatles, or waves crashing on the beach. Get out a piece of paper and make a list. You may be surprised at how many little tiny things you enjoy related to your senses.    </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Once you have identified things you like to smell, touch, taste, hear and see, you need to make a plan to get at least one of those things in your life on a daily basis. Turn on the music you love, buy yourself a bouquet of flowers, bake one little chocolate chip cookie every day! What the heck, they make that frozen cookie dough for a reason! Get up early once a week and see the sunrise. Take a walk. Put joy back in your life in its simplest forms. Just go for it. It’s not that hard.    </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Once your senses are starting to wake up again, start to think about gratitude. What are you thankful for? That time your dad took you fishing, that your grandmother taught you the names of all the birds, fireworks on the Fourth of July or the beauty of a tree. The list is endless, humbling, and there is joy in gratitude. Be grateful.  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> It’s YOUR JOY. Take it back.  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <a href="/"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Mon, 15 Aug 2022 04:00:00 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/finding-your-joy thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/veterans-day-thank-you-for-your-service Because you are there we all sleep better at night. You serve in the Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines, and Coast Guard. Some of you serve for two years, some for twenty or more. Some enter into service at a tender age looking for opportunity. Some are following a longstanding family tradition. You are mothers, fathers, sons, and daughters. We, thank you for your service.   You spend days, weeks, and even years away from your family. You are not always there to teach your daughter to ride her bike; perhaps you missed your son’s first steps. Because you serve, you can’t always be counted on to attend the baseball game or the teacher conference. With your service comes sacrifice. Sacrifices made by both you and your family.  We thank you and your family for your service.    Thank you for being ready and on alert so that we can go about our business without even thinking about the “what ifs”. Thank you for putting yourself in harms way.  Thank you for giving us your time, your energy and your youth. Thank you for representing us with honor where ever you are stationed.   Regardless of whether you serve us at home or in foreign lands, in time of war or peace, we thank you for your service.    On Memorial Day we remember those who gave their lives in our service, on Armed Forces Day we honor those currently serving. On Veterans Day we honor all who have served our country from the Revolution in 1776 to today. Thank you.       www.plattsfuneralhome.com <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Because you are there we all sleep better at night. You serve in the Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines, and Coast Guard. Some of you serve for two years, some for twenty or more. Some enter into service at a tender age looking for opportunity. Some are following a longstanding family tradition. You are mothers, fathers, sons, and daughters. We, thank you for your service. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> You spend days, weeks, and even years away from your family. You are not always there to teach your daughter to ride her bike; perhaps you missed your son’s first steps. Because you serve, you can’t always be counted on to attend the baseball game or the teacher conference. With your service comes sacrifice. Sacrifices made by both you and your family.  We thank you and your family for your service.  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Thank you for being ready and on alert so that we can go about our business without even thinking about the “what ifs”. Thank you for putting yourself in harms way.  Thank you for giving us your time, your energy and your youth. Thank you for representing us with honor where ever you are stationed. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Regardless of whether you serve us at home or in foreign lands, in time of war or peace, we thank you for your service.  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> On Memorial Day we remember those who gave their lives in our service, on Armed Forces Day we honor those currently serving. On Veterans Day we honor all who have served our country from the Revolution in 1776 to today. Thank you. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <a href="/"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Mon, 15 Aug 2022 04:00:00 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/veterans-day-thank-you-for-your-service thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/where-should-i-send-my-condolences <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span> Condolences do matter and timing is important. </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span> Do not put off contacting your friend to express your sympathy. Options and opportunities may have changes over the decades, but the importance of reaching out to those suffering a loss has not. A call or a written note is always just right. Social media is just fine under some circumstances and a personal visit is lovely. Additionally, many funeral homes have a place on their website to post condolences. This format allows your expression of sympathy to be delivered privately and quickly.  </span> </span> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span> So, let’s start with the newest trend - technology and social media. It’s so fast and so easy to access. If you are texting a co-worker several times a day about other things, it would seem rude to not mention the loss of her mother. Do use private messaging forms of social media with people you communicate with regularly in this manner. Caution!! Be very careful to not send a public condolence message using social media if your friend has not made an equally public announcement of his or her loss on the same platform. Do follow-up your message with a call or personal note. Finally, do not use electronic messaging if the receiver is not a regular user of tech.  </span> </span> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span> Hand written notes or cards made for just this purpose should be mailed to the person closest to the deceased or to a personal friend who has experienced a loss. Your personal note should be simple. Thoughts such as you are sorry for their loss, you are thinking of them in this difficult time or they are in your thoughts and prayers are appropriate. If you knew the deceased, you might share a brief story about the person who died and shares your connection.    </span> </span> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span> Should you make a condolence visit? Oh, my yes! A personal visit is the only way to give a hug.  However, do call ahead. Do keep your visit brief and do focus on the grieving individual. Please, don’t say you know how they feel even if you share a similar experience. There will be a time for sharing later. For now, just let them know you are sorry for their loss. Come as a listener not a problem solver. </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p>   </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p>   </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <a href="/"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> Mon, 15 Aug 2022 04:00:00 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/where-should-i-send-my-condolences thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/how-to-prepare-for-a-funeral-contacting-loved-ones <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> The death of a loved one is often the most challenging thing one will face in one’s life. It’s overwhelming, disheartening, and saddening for you personally, but also for those around you. As you prepare for the funeral, you’ll need to start contacting loved ones. How do you determine who to tell first and how? </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <b> Call those closest first </b> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Immediate and extended family members along with close friends are who you should be contacting first. They are the ones who were most important to the deceased, and it is imperative they be made aware first before funeral arrangements are made. As you make your rounds, it will be a good idea to ask for up-to-date information including email addresses so details can be shared as the funeral approaches. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <b> Consider sending out an email </b> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> An email chain can be started with those within the deceased’s communities, religious groups, and workplace. Keeping the email short will allow easy circulation and sharing. Keep funeral details short and omit any sensitive information that the family would want to keep private. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <b> Social Media and Obituary </b> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Writing an obituary can be really challenging for a few reasons, but chief among them is grappling with summarizing the life of your loved one in just a few paragraphs. Don’t worry about getting it perfect; the main purpose of an obituary is to inform the surrounding community of the death and memorial. You’ll have the chance to tell your loved one’s full story at the service. Be sure to have another set of eyes on the obituary as it’s written; this could spare any potential headaches arising from spelling errors or incorrect details. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> And lastly, social media will reach the rest of the deceased’s circle of connections. Be careful to inform the immediate family and inner circle before sending out any social media post. It really should fall to the very bottom of the priority list in terms of spreading the news and is best for minimizing any hurt or shocked feelings. Keep the post brief, and consider linking the published obituary and service details. A good post will generate condolences, the sharing of memories, and support. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <a href="/"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Mon, 15 Aug 2022 04:00:00 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/how-to-prepare-for-a-funeral-contacting-loved-ones thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/why-plan-your-funeral-in-advance <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <em> The story below illustrates the benefits of preplanning your funeral. Also known as an “advance funeral plan”, “preneed”, or a “preplanned funeral”, it is one of the few things in life where you can pay today’s prices for a product and service you may not need for many years down the road, thus saving you money. </em> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> We buried my dad last week. My dad’s funeral would have been just a little more than $8,000 not counting the luncheon or cemetery space. However, thanks to his pre-need funeral plan that he prepared 18 years ago at the funeral home, we got it for $5,000 and some change. Saving money wasn’t necessarily what motivated him to make the plan in advance. But, let me tell you, my mom was pretty pleased to know she didn't have to write that check.  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Now, I should clarify something here. My mom is more than okay financially. Paying, even the full $8,000, for the funeral would not have been a financial issue. It was an emotional thing. She knew the death of my dad was going to change her life. She just didn’t know how it would change. So, everything, every action and especially spending money, increased her anxiety. We didn’t need that. Thank you, dad, for taking care of the plan and its cost well before it was needed.   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> What motivated my father to pre-plan was the fact we are a blended family. It’s not the we don’t all get along, we do (most of the time). But, we don’t all have the same taste. My sister, his oldest daughter, likes the earth tones. Our mom, his wife, on the other hand, likes the jewel tones. My dad picked a black casket and even said he wanted to be buried in his navy suit. Seems like small stuff, but it probably saved us all some angst. There was no fuss, no brown suit and no hurt feelings.  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> If my dad would have asked us 18 years ago if he should pre-plan and pre-pay for his funeral, I feel certain all five of us would have said, “Don’t worry about that. We can take care of it when we have to.” I am so grateful that he did not ask and that he did not think just about the money portion of an advance funeral plan. Dad, thank you for being smarter than us and knowing that we would need your emotional support even in death.  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <a href="/"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Mon, 15 Aug 2022 04:00:00 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/why-plan-your-funeral-in-advance thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/moving-after-a-spouse-dies <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> One of the realities of losing a spouse or a parent is the impact that event has on living arrangements. Are we living in the “right” place? Is the house too big? Is it too far away from family? Will my surviving parent be safe where they live? Should I move to be closer to mom or should mom move closer to me?  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> These are tough questions and they come at a time when emotions are running so very high. They also come at a time when income has likely decreased, perhaps requiring a change be made sooner rather than later. Conventional wisdom says wait at least a year before you make any big changes to your living situation, but the reality is waiting a year may not be financially possible. If you are able to slow down and let the dust settle a bit, that is no small blessing.    </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Really, it all boils down to three considerations: happiness, safety, and finances. The surviving spouse needs to be in a place that not only works financially, but also is safe and happy. You are going to need to use both your rational mind and your emotions if you are to make the best decision.    </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> On the face of it, the financial consideration seems to be the trump card. After all, you have to be able to afford where you live. However, it is not always that simple.  When the happiest place is affordable but not the most frugal choice, then maybe happy trumps financially smart? Decisions based on both emotion and rational thought are usually the best decisions.   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> That emotional happiness factor also impacts the safety issue. Perhaps the safest living arrangement isn’t going to be a happy situation?  In that case, put your rational mind to work on finding a way to make the happy place safer.    </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> You have to find the best fit answer for your family. As you are weighing those three considerations, resist the temptation to base the decision on what you think may happen or will happen down the road. Consider the wisdom of making decisions in the present, based on present circumstances. So, if dad is safe, happy and can afford to stay in his present home maybe no change is necessary … for now. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <a href="/"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Mon, 15 Aug 2022 04:00:00 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/moving-after-a-spouse-dies thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/get-your-family-involved-in-funeral-planning When death is near or has just occurred, there are so many things to do and yet there is nothing you can do. You feel helpless. You can’t make the person well or bring them back.  But you know you will, very soon, need to make many decisions about the service, the final resting place, the music, food, flowers, donations, clothing and much more. Your mind is racing and oddly enough, at the same time, at a complete standstill. On one hand it feels like it is too soon to do anything. You’re just not ready. But at the same time, you feel the weight of all that is coming.   This is stress. It is hard. If you can, reach out to your family and friends and let them help you. Have your son or daughter get the older grandchildren involved in pulling together pictures and music. They are really good at this stuff. Going through the pictures brings back happy memories and it’s one of the most therapeutic chores that comes with funeral preparation. Let them do something that will help them - they are dealing with this loss too.   If would you would like family and friends to donate to a charity, put someone in charge of looking into that. Have your daughter-in-law pull together a few clothing choices for your final selection. Send your son-in-law to the cemetery or have him get the cars washed. You may want to delegate the task of writing the eulogy and obituary. Give someone the job of gathering information for the funeral luncheon or brunch.    Spread the work around. Let go, embrace help and give them something to do. You’ll feel better that things are getting done and they’ll feel better because they are involved and helping.   www.plattsfuneralhome.com <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> When death is near or has just occurred, there are so many things to do and yet there is nothing you can do. You feel helpless. You can’t make the person well or bring them back.  But you know you will, very soon, need to make many decisions about the service, the final resting place, the music, food, flowers, donations, clothing and much more. Your mind is racing and oddly enough, at the same time, at a complete standstill. On one hand it feels like it is too soon to do anything. You’re just not ready. But at the same time, you feel the weight of all that is coming. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> This is stress. It is hard. If you can, reach out to your family and friends and let them help you. Have your son or daughter get the older grandchildren involved in pulling together pictures and music. They are really good at this stuff. Going through the pictures brings back happy memories and it’s one of the most therapeutic chores that comes with funeral preparation. Let them do something that will help them - they are dealing with this loss too. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> If would you would like family and friends to donate to a charity, put someone in charge of looking into that. Have your daughter-in-law pull together a few clothing choices for your final selection. Send your son-in-law to the cemetery or have him get the cars washed. You may want to delegate the task of writing the eulogy and obituary. Give someone the job of gathering information for the funeral luncheon or brunch.  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> Spread the work around. Let go, embrace help and give them something to do. You’ll feel better that things are getting done and they’ll feel better because they are involved and helping. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <a href="/"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Mon, 15 Aug 2022 04:00:00 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/get-your-family-involved-in-funeral-planning thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/do-i-really-need-to-attend-the-funeral Your presence is important. If there is any way possible, please, just be there. When a child is born it is a life changing event for the parents, siblings and grandparents at the very least. It may also be a life changing event for the kindergarten teacher five years in the future. Bottom line, life matters.      When a life ends, it is also a life-changing event. Regardless of the age at which the person dies or circumstances of the death, lives will change. Family and friends will never see that person again. They will not share in each other’s joy. Neither will they have the opportunity to heal old wounds. They will not hear that voice in praise, love or anger ever again. It’s over, and in some way everyone close will have to adjust to the change.    The funeral, the gathering together, acknowledges a living person is gone. Your presence says, “Yes, this life mattered. And, yes, your lives have changed. But not everything has changed, you still have us.” Going is important.      The funeral home is a safe place for the family to receive guests and their condolences. It’s ok to cry at the funeral home. In a few weeks when you see this friend of yours who lost her mom, you will want to say something. And when you do, the emotion will open up and the sadness will surface. Crying at the grocery store or the soccer field is uncomfortable for everyone.      When people organize a funeral gathering and ask friends and family to come to them to share in their loss and sorrow, to help them. Please go, hold a hand, give a hug, share a memory, offer your condolences, and smile at the video. Let them cry in a safe place.     www.plattsfuneralhome.com <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span> Your presence is important. If there is any way possible, please, just be there. When a child is born it is a life changing event for the parents, siblings and grandparents at the very least. It may also be a life changing event for the kindergarten teacher five years in the future. Bottom line, life matters.   </span> </span> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span> When a life ends, it is also a life-changing event. Regardless of the age at which the person dies or circumstances of the death, lives will change. Family and friends will never see that person again. They will not share in each other’s joy. Neither will they have the opportunity to heal old wounds. They will not hear that voice in praise, love or anger ever again. It’s over, and in some way everyone close will have to adjust to the change. </span> </span> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span>   </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span> The funeral, the gathering together, acknowledges a living person is gone. Your presence says, “Yes, this life mattered. And, yes, your lives have changed. But not everything has changed, you still have us.” Going is important.   </span> </span> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span> The funeral home is a safe place for the family to receive guests and their condolences. It’s ok to cry at the funeral home. In a few weeks when you see this friend of yours who lost her mom, you will want to say something. And when you do, the emotion will open up and the sadness will surface. Crying at the grocery store or the soccer field is uncomfortable for everyone.   </span> </span> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <span> When people organize a funeral gathering and ask friends and family to come to them to share in their loss and sorrow, to help them. Please go, hold a hand, give a hug, share a memory, offer your condolences, and smile at the video. Let them cry in a safe place. </span> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p>   </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p>   </p> <p> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> </p> <p> <span> <a href="/"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </span> </p> <p> </p> </div> Mon, 15 Aug 2022 04:00:00 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/do-i-really-need-to-attend-the-funeral thumbnail https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/we-all-love-in-very-different-ways-preserving-the-family-relationship-while-planning-a-funeral You are with someone with whom you share some history. Maybe it’s a brother, sister, or a childhood friend. You are talking about an event from the “old days” and you suddenly realize you all remember the event a little differently. Most of us have had this experience. Our relationships work in a similar fashion. The way we love, like the way we remember, is unique to each of us.      A man’s children know him as Dad. Each child knows and loves a slightly different Dad. His wife knows and loves him in yet a different way. A wife may know fears, strengths, hopes, and dreams children never saw. They all love, but in such different ways. Though not a bad thing, it can add to the stress a family experiences during a death and subsequent funeral planning.    So how do you preserve your family relationship and plan a funeral that provides comfort for each family member?       www.plattsfuneralhome.com <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> You are with someone with whom you share some history. Maybe it’s a brother, sister, or a childhood friend. You are talking about an event from the “old days” and you suddenly realize you all remember the event a little differently. Most of us have had this experience. Our relationships work in a similar fashion. The way we love, like the way we remember, is unique to each of us.    </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> A man’s children know him as Dad. Each child knows and loves a slightly different Dad. His wife knows and loves him in yet a different way. A wife may know fears, strengths, hopes, and dreams children never saw. They all love, but in such different ways. Though not a bad thing, it can add to the stress a family experiences during a death and subsequent funeral planning.  </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> So how do you preserve your family relationship and plan a funeral that provides comfort for each family member?   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p>   </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <a href="/"> www.plattsfuneralhome.com </a> </p> </div> Mon, 15 Aug 2022 04:00:00 GMT https://www.plattsfuneralhome.com/we-all-love-in-very-different-ways-preserving-the-family-relationship-while-planning-a-funeral thumbnail