#Estate Planning Services near me

[smithbarid]

Estate planning ensures asset distribution, family protection, and legacy preservation with the help of a lawyer.

[themis77]

Mobile Notary Services in Yakima WA

For reliable Mobile Notary Services in Yakima WA, Themis Mobile Notary & Apostille Services is your go-to partner. We provide convenient mobile notary solutions, ensuring all legal documents are handled professionally. From estate planning to I-9 employment verification, we cover all your notarization needs with expertise and care.

[willsandtrusts]

How to Choose the Right Estate Planner for Your Family’s Needs

Selecting the right estate planner ensures your assets are managed efficiently and your family is secure. Learn how to choose an experienced professional with tax expertise, personalised services, and clear communication. Get expert estate planning advice today with Wills & Trusts Wealth Management.

[brydonlaw]

Find the Best Estate Planning Near Me

Estate planning is an essential aspect of managing your assets and ensuring your loved ones are cared for after you're gone. It involves creating a plan that outlines how your assets will be distributed, who will make decisions on your behalf, and how to minimize taxes and legal hurdles for your beneficiaries. If you're searching for "estate planning near me," you're likely looking for reliable and professional services to help you navigate this complex process. This guide will help you understand what to look for in estate planning services and how to find the best professionals in your area.

Why Estate Planning is Important

Before diving into how to find the best estate planning services near you, it's important to understand why estate planning is crucial. Without a proper estate plan, your assets could be distributed according to state laws, which may not align with your wishes. Additionally, your loved ones could face significant legal challenges and expenses. Estate planning ensures that your assets are distributed according to your wishes, reduces the tax burden on your estate, and provides clear instructions for your care if you become incapacitated.

Key Components of Estate Planning

A comprehensive estate plan typically includes the following components:

Will: A legal document that outlines how your assets will be distributed after your death.

Trust: A legal entity that holds and manages assets on behalf of your beneficiaries.

Power of Attorney: A document that designates someone to make financial and legal decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated.

Healthcare Directive: A document that outlines your healthcare preferences and designates someone to make medical decisions on your behalf.

Beneficiary Designations: Forms that designate who will receive assets from accounts like life insurance policies and retirement plans.

How to Find the Best Estate Planning Near Me

Finding the right estate planning services can be daunting, but following these steps can help you locate the best professionals in your area:

Research Online: Start by searching for "estate planning near me" on search engines. Look for firms with high ratings and positive reviews. Pay attention to their websites, which should provide detailed information about their services, experience, and qualifications.

Ask for Recommendations: Reach out to friends, family, and colleagues who have gone through the estate planning process. Personal recommendations can provide valuable insights into the quality of service and professionalism of the estate planning firms.

Check Credentials: Ensure that the estate planning professionals you are considering are licensed and have the necessary qualifications. Look for certifications such as Certified Estate Planner (CEP) or membership in professional organizations like the National Association of Estate Planners & Councils (NAEPC).

Schedule Consultations: Meet with a few estate planning professionals to discuss your needs and evaluate their expertise. During the consultation, ask about their experience, approach to estate planning, and fees. This will help you gauge their professionalism and whether they are a good fit for your needs.

Review References: Ask for references from past clients and contact them to inquire about their experience with the estate planning professional. Positive feedback from previous clients can provide assurance that you are making the right choice.

What to Expect During the Estate Planning Process

Once you've found the right estate planning professional, the process typically involves the following steps:

Initial Consultation: During the initial meeting, you'll discuss your goals, assets, and family dynamics. The estate planning professional will explain the different components of an estate plan and recommend the best approach for your situation.

Drafting Documents: The estate planning professional will draft the necessary documents, including your will, trust, power of attorney, and healthcare directive. This process may involve multiple meetings to ensure that all your wishes are accurately reflected in the documents.

Review and Finalization: Once the documents are drafted, you'll review them with your estate planning professional to ensure that everything is in order. Any necessary revisions will be made, and then the documents will be finalized and signed.

Regular Updates: Estate planning is not a one-time event. Your circumstances and the laws may change, so it's important to review and update your estate plan regularly. Most estate planning professionals offer services to help you keep your plan current.

Benefits of Working with a Local Estate Planning Professional

Working with a local estate planning professional offers several advantages:

Familiarity with Local Laws: Estate planning laws can vary significantly from state to state. A local professional will have in-depth knowledge of the laws and regulations in your area, ensuring that your estate plan is compliant and effective.

Personalized Service: Local professionals are more likely to offer personalized service and be readily available for meetings and consultations. This can be particularly important if you have complex needs or require frequent updates to your estate plan.

Community Connections: Local estate planning professionals often have strong connections within the community, which can be beneficial if you need referrals to other trusted professionals, such as financial advisors or accountants.

Convenience: Working with a local professional is convenient, as you can easily schedule in-person meetings and have a more direct line of communication.

Conclusion

Finding the best "estate planning near me" is crucial for ensuring that your assets are managed and distributed according to your wishes. By conducting thorough research, asking for recommendations, and meeting with several professionals, you can find the right estate planning services for your needs. Remember to check credentials, review references, and expect a comprehensive process that includes drafting, reviewing, and updating your estate plan.

For those in search of reliable and professional estate planning services, I highly recommend Brydon Law. Their commitment to excellence and personalized service makes them an excellent choice for managing your estate planning needs. Take the first step towards securing your future and protecting your loved ones by contacting Brydon Law today.

[journeyinorderusa]

Website: https://www.journeyinorder.com

Address: Wheaton, Illinois, USA

Journey In Order specializes in professional organizing services, particularly catering to seniors and estate clearouts. Founded by Christie Klingl, the company offers empathy and compassion in its tailored approach. Key services include downsizing, staging homes for resale, assisting with long-distance moves, and providing senior move management. Their team, including Liz Pearson and Cassie Capp, focuses on no-judgement support, environmentally friendly practices, and extensive pre- and post-move assistance.

Yelp : https://www.yelp.com/biz/journey-in-order-wheaton

Keywords: home staging near me senior move management decluttering near me relocation services for seniors downsizing services organizing help near me downsizing services near me local professional organizers professional organizing near me home staging for resale estate clearout assistance professional organizing solutions long distance move coordination environmentally friendly decluttering personalized downsizing plans compassionate move support efficient estate liquidation tailored senior relocation services stress free organizing experience expert home organizing senior friendly moving assistance comprehensive estate sorting move management for seniors decluttering and organizing help sustainable home clearing senior move planning expertise streamlined downsizing solutions estate liquidation specialists proven senior relocation methods sustainable organizing practices effective home staging strategies coordinated long distance moves environmentally conscious decluttering customized downsizing approaches supportive move assistance expert estate sorting services thoughtful senior move coordination professional decluttering help eco friendly downsizing options home organizing mastery assistance with senior friendly moves estate liquidation efficiency organized downsizing plans resale ready home staging long distance move coordination experts green decluttering solutions personalized downsizing assistance caring move support for seniors efficient estate liquidation services senior relocation tailored solutions stress free downsizing experience home organizing expertise compassionate senior move assistance sustainable estate sorting local professional organizing services downsizing services wheaton estate clearout assistance naperville senior move management wheaton professional organizing solutions naperville home staging wheaton long distance move coordination naperville decluttering wheaton personalized downsizing plans naperville senior friendly moving assistance wheaton estate sorting naperville move management wheaton organizing help naperville sustainable home clearing wheaton professional organizers naperville senior move planning wheaton downsizing services in wheaton estate clearout naperville move management in wheaton professional organizers in naperville senior move planning in wheaton estate clearout assistance near me senior move management near me long distance move coordination near me personalized downsizing near me senior friendly moving assistance near me estate sorting near me move management near me sustainable home clearing near me local professional organizers near me senior move planning near me downsizing services near wheaton estate clearout near naperville move management near wheaton professional organizers near naperville senior move planning near wheaton

[amobilenotary]

Notary Public (Beginner) www.amobilenotary.net #notarypublic #realestate #transferwills #estateplanning #personalhealth #notary #documents #notarization #authentication #affidavit #statutorydeclaration #commerciallease #contracts #Adjudication #Affidavits #FamilyLaw #RealEstateLaw #CorporateLaw #Depositions #DisputeResolution #DueDiligence #EvidenceCollection #Fraud #IntellectualProperty #Interrogation #JusticeSystem #Litigation #Probate #settlementnegotiations #remotenotary

[chasemobilenotary]

For anyone that is close by, come visit me. I will be hosting a couple of giveaway events this week!!! Come visit me at the Kent Showare Center on May 24 between 3 - 7 and/or Federal Way Community Center on May 27 between 10:30 - 6pm.

I'd love to see each and every one of you and tell you more about my business and the services I offer.

[edwardselderlaw]

Protecting Your Loved Ones: Why Hiring an Elder Law Attorney is Essential

As our loved ones age, safeguarding their interests becomes paramount. That's where lawyers specialising in elder law near me come into play. With their expertise, they can help navigate the complex landscape of elder law, protecting your loved ones' rights and ensuring their well-being. Here's why hiring an elder law attorney is essential.

Understanding Elder Law:

Elder law is a complex field that covers areas like estate planning, wills, trusts, guardianship, Medicare/Medicaid, and elder abuse. Lawyers specialising in elder law near me have a deep understanding of these areas and can provide valuable advice to protect your loved ones' interests.

Estate Planning and Wills:

Elder law attorneys can help draft wills and plan estates, ensuring your loved ones' assets are distributed according to their wishes. They can also set up trusts to protect assets and provide for the financial needs of your loved ones.

Guardianship:

Should a loved one become incapable of making decisions, an elder law attorney can guide you through the guardianship process. They'll ensure the appointed guardian is acting in the best interests of your loved one.

Medicare/Medicaid Planning:

It can be difficult to navigate Medicare and Medicaid's complexity. Elder law attorneys can help plan for long-term care, ensuring your loved ones receive the benefits they're entitled to.

Preventing Elder Abuse:

Elder law attorneys play a crucial role in preventing and addressing elder abuse. They can help put safeguards in place and take action if abuse occurs.

Conclusion:

Hiring lawyers specialising in elder law near me is an essential step in protecting your loved ones as they age. They provide the expertise needed to navigate the complexities of elder law, ensuring your loved ones' rights are protected, their wishes are respected, and their future is secure. Don't leave your loved ones' well-being to chance; consider hiring an elder law attorney today!

[akgvgassociates]

Accounting in business & finance: An overview

The evolution of trade, business, and commerce has resulted in the constant growth and sophistication of the financial world. Accounting, the language of finance, has been established due to realizing the need to maintain a written record of every commercial transaction. Read More:  Accounting in business & finance: An overview

[labuenosairesfrancaise]

DUNCOMBE PARK

Hi guys!!

I'm sharing Duncombe Park. This is the 8th building for my English Manors Collection, and I will add many more!

House History: Duncombe Park is the seat of the Duncombe family who previously held the title Earls of Feversham. The title became extinct on the death of the 3rd Earl in 1963, since when the family have continued to hold the title Baron Feversham.

The house was completed in 1713 for Thomas Duncombe (born Thomas Brown) to designs by the Yorkshire gentleman-architect William Wakefield. It was remodelled in 1843 by Sir Charles Barry. In 1879 the main block was gutted by fire and remained a ruin until 1895 when rebuilding was carried out by William Young. The reconstruction was based on the original design, though there were changes made, especially in the interior layout to meet contemporary needs. It is of two storeys with a basement and attic.

In 1694 Charles Duncombe, one of the richest commoners in England, bought the 40,000-acre (16,000 ha) Helmsley estate, occasionally staying at the castle. After his death in 1711 it passed to his sister Ursula and from her to her son Thomas Brown, who changed his name to Thomas Duncombe and commissioned the building of the present house. On his death in 1746 it passed to his son, Thomas Duncombe II, who extended the grounds to include the Rievaulx Terrace. In 1774, Anne Duncombe, daughter of Thomas Duncombe of Duncombe Park was married to Robert Shafto, of Whitworth Hall, near Spennymoor, County Durham, the famous "Bonny Bobby Shaftoe" of the folk song.

In the late 1700s the estate was owned by Thomas' son, Charles Slingsby Duncombe, who was succeeded in 1803 by his eldest son and heir Charles Duncombe, 1st Baron Feversham. Charles was MP for Shaftesbury, Aldborough, Heytesbury and Newport IoW and High Sheriff of Yorkshire for 1790–91. He built up a considerable art collection at the house and was made 1st Baron Feversham in 1826. His son William succeeded him and was MP for Yorkshire and after 1832 for the new North Riding constituency. William's son William Ernest was created the 1st Earl of Feversham. The second Earl was killed in the First World War and the earldom became extinct on the death of the third earl in 1963.

More history: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Duncombe_Park

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This house fits a 64x64 lot and features a great room, a formal dining room and a daily breakfast room, a great library, his and hers bedrooms, a great staris, a ballroom, and many others!.

This time I decorated most of the rooms for picture purposes, but as allways, you can make it your own!

The groung floor is suposed to be for service, and it is not finished. Nor are the side structures, that are actually for decorative purpose as I could not fit the real structure in the lot.

The main house could fit a 50x50 and a 50x40 lot aswell, but you will lose the decorative sides.

Hope you like it.

Be warned: I did not have the floor plan for the 2nd floor nor pictures of most of the inside and worked on an old proposed floorplan for the residence.

You will need the usual CC I use: all of Felixandre, The Jim, SYB, Anachrosims, Regal Sims, TGS, The Golden Sanctuary, Cliffou, Dndr recolors, etc.

Please enjoy, comment if you like it and share pictures with me if you use my creations!

Early access: August 15.

DOWNLOAD: https://www.patreon.com/posts/104087764

[sirfrogsworth]

Froggie's (Almost) Very Productive Day

I try to fit as many out-and-about chores as possible into a single day so I only have one set of post-exertional malaise consequences instead of consequences after each day of doing a thing. So any time I decide to drive, I try to find several tasks to accomplish all at once.

My first stop was the Family Services Division in the hopes of getting some help with grocery bills. I am making ends meet, but it seems to be getting harder each month. And maybe I could have skipped my trip to Florida and saved that money, but if I don't do something drastic for my mental health, I fear this first holiday season without a parent could send me into the darkness.

I needed to do an interview to finish applying for SNAP. I wanted to do a phone interview, but the next appointment was in January. So I went to social services where they allow walk-in appointments. I waited in a tiny plastic chair for several hours until they called my name. She yelled out "Benjamin" because when most people see "Grelle" they aren't really sure how to say it. (Rhymes with belly.)

She started my interview and it was going swimmingly at first. But then she started asking questions about the house and my inheritance and my trust. I had no idea what to tell her. It feels like a mistake now, but I have had pretty much no involvement in that process. I have no idea how it works. And I started to panic because she was acting like I was committing fraud or something by not mentioning the trust. But the entire point of the trust was to protect my benefits. Nothing is mine. I own nothing. I have no access. But I had no idea how to explain that.

Maybe my lawyer can help me apply, but I did not want them investigating everything and screwing things up before we even have the estate through probate. We specifically hired a lawyer and went through this convoluted process to make sure everything was on the up and up. But she really made me feel like I was doing something wrong. And that made me panic, which probably made me look even more guilty of something. So I just canceled everything and left.

After a few hours in a crowded government office, I decided to head to a different crowded government office.

I know I didn't need it until 2025, but I decided to go ahead and get my Real ID thingie before my first flight. I was kind of hoping they'd retake my picture because my current driver's license is... well...

And I'm so glad they took my big terrible picture and made it into a smaller, more terrible picture.

People complain about the DMV, but the one near me runs like a machine. It was filled with people and I still only had a 10 minute wait time.

I'm starting to wonder if all of those 80s comedians who were all, "What's the deal with the DMV?" were exaggerating.

Good stuff, Jerry.

I head up to the counter and ask for a Real ID. She asks for two pieces of mail and my birth certificate.

And this disappointed me a little bit.

I did my research. I went to the Real ID website and used their interactive guide to figure out exactly which documents I would need. They gave me this entire checklist and I printed it out and went through all my records and mail trying to find everything.

I had to wait a week for my internet bill to come because it's the only thing I forgot to change to paperless. This took a lot of effort and I was ready to be validated for being so prepared.

And she asks for two pieces of mail.

Any mail.

So I was off to get new tires.

Driving around on 8 year old bald tires was giving me anxiety. I didn't have the money for new tires, but I remember the guy saying they had financing. Recently several of my past debts went past the statute of limitations, and so my credit score lifted itself out of the pits of "poor" and into the realm of "fair." So I decided to take a chance and apply for a Discount Tire credit card. It's a 6 month payment plan with no interest, so that didn't feel as predatory as all the credit card offers I get in the mail with 8000% interest.

We started going through the approval process and I was answering all of the questions and then I saw the name of the bank offering the credit. It was the same bank that tried to sue me and also the bank that can longer collect due to the statute. I was worried they put me on some sort of list and would deny me. But, to my surprise, they approved me instantly. And wouldn't you know it, they gave me almost exactly the amount needed for a new set of tires.

I'm hoping we'll be doing another auction of the house stuff soon, so I plan to pay off the card and then cancel it, but this was the only solution I could come up with to drive safely until then.

I was having a weird day where photos of crusty rich wide dudes followed me everywhere I went. Here is my good ol' boy governor at the entrance to social services.

And at the tire place, I noticed this fella...

Why does every rich CEO think they are a font of wisdom capable of creating compelling quotes?

Does he think no one has ever said "work hard" and "have fun"? And after he said this was he like...

"That's gold, put that in *every* store."

"Oh, and use that picture of me where it looks like a handsome gal just grabbed my undercarriage."

He probably thinks, "Well, no one has put these specific generic platitudes together into a single mega-platitude. I am a genius."

"Be honest, work hard, have fun, be grateful, pay it forward" sounds like he had a bunch of motivational posters on his wall and started reading them all at once.

Like, every line could have a picture of an eagle above it.

In any case, the guy at the tire store, Dakota, was really nice. He made the experience very low anxiety. And he really liked my Thor's Hammer keychain with built in fidget spinner.

He went around showing it to all his coworkers. "Look, it even spins!" And they were like, "Dude, where did you get that??" And I was like, "Amazon." Now I'm just imagining 10 dudes at a tire store all fidgeting their hammers.

As nice as he was, Dakota was still a salesman and had a job to do. He gave me two tire options and tried to upsell me. The cheapest tires had a "1" rating for winter. He said they get "super hard" in the cold... I tried not to giggle. But I explained I drive about twice a month and mostly to the grocery store. If it is a bad winter day, I'll just wait or get delivery. He understood and set me up with the cheaper tires.

He then checked out my car and noticed my tire pressure sensors were dying. I keep getting a warning light on my dash. Apparently they all have tiny batteries in them that die after 7 years. And you can't just replace the batteries so you have to install brand new sensors.

And this is where my social anxiety got me into trouble.

I don't actually need these sensors. They are usually inaccurate. I prefer to test my tires with an actual gauge. But I got so caught up in his sales pitch that I agreed to replace them... at $60 each. For that I could have gotten the fancier tires. I really don't care if an orange light shows up on my dash. And I looked up the price online and a pack of 4 is $30. Though that is without installation.

But still... I wasn't thinking and he was so nice that I was just like, "I want to please Dakota. Saying no might make Dakota sad." Dakota's job is selling me but that doesn't mean I have to buy anything. He would live if I had said "no thanks."

To make my blunder more blunderous, when they finished the tires he asked for my key fob. And it decided that was the time for the battery to die. And in order to reset the system for the new tire pressure sensors, you have to press two buttons on the fob for 7 seconds. Thankfully I had a spare fob at home, but if I want my fancy new $240 sensors to work, I have to return to Dakota and have him initialize them.

I really hope these are the Cadillac of sensors.

Or, like, the ones they use on Cadillacs?

They better be accurate, is what I'm saying.

I do feel safer with new tires. So I am glad I did that. And I gave them a good obligatory kick and felt the tread. They seem nice enough even if they get boners in the winter. It's crazy how bald my other tires were in comparison. Like, I can fit half my finger down into the tread on the new ones—which did not get them super hard.

The way I drive, I probably won't wear them down. They'll probably start to rot before I do.

Before I do, meaning before I wear them down.

Not before I rot.

I am not in a rotting competition with my tires.

I was then off to Sam's. I decided all of my hard work accomplishing 2 out of 3 goals deserved some sushi. So I grabbed some California Rolls and headed home. On my way out, a Hummer and a Porsche nearly collided in the parking lot. And they sort of got stuck facing each other. One of them needed to back up and they both signaled at each other like "You back up, I'm not backing up." And it was just this weird standoff between the two douchiest looking cars you could imagine.

I mean, you have to be a douche to drive a Hummer.

I still remember the mystery Hummer dialysis patient from when my dad was going 3 time per week. We could never figure out who owned the Hummer, but we knew it was not the underpaid nurses and techs. So it had to be one of the patients. And none of them seemed the type. We never solved that mystery.

That hummer started off a delightful safety yellow. (Elon would cry.)

They decided this wasn't extra enough... so they did this...

Katrina and I could never decide... are these cow spots or the world's least effective camoflauge?

There was another patient who drove this old beater...

And I loved seeing this car because we had the same one when I was a little kid. I'm afraid the aesthetics of the 1980s Caprice Classic did not stand the test of time, but it had great sentimental appeal for me.

But this maroon beast that squeaked and sputtered its way from here to there belonged to a very sweet older gentleman. Sometimes he and my dad would be dialysis buddies—sitting next to each other in the recliners. And the worst thing about dialysis was the boredom. All you have to do is watch broadcast TV with 4 channels.

All of the TVs require headphones. They give you your own set of super cheap headphones in the dialysis welcome bag. They were very uncomfortable so I ordered my dad better ones with cushioned ear cups.

His dialysis buddy noticed them and thought they looked nice. And then he revealed that his free headphones broke and he didn't know how to get new ones. He had been watching TV with no sound for weeks. So, I bought another pair with the soft ear cups and my dad gave them to his friend. And it just made me happy imagining the two of them watching The Price is Right in matching headphones.

I do have to make fun of this sweet old man a little bit. When I walked passed his car I noticed he implemented the world's most effective anti-theft device ever created.

That's right... The Club™.

If someone decides they have to have a 40 year old car with an engine that sounds like a dying hyena and a hubcap missing... they are out of luck.

But hey, you gotta protect what is important to you. And if I needed a getaway car and my choices were between his beater and the Cow Hummer, I'd take his ride for sure.

Well, I'd try... and then get arrested because The Club™ is undefeatable.

Do NOT look that up on YouTube. It's 100% true. (And the Lock Picking Lawyer doesn't count due to him being able to break into Fort Knox with a paperclip and then doing it again to make sure it isn't a fluke.)

The dialysis center is in the same complex as my local Tolerable Schnucks and I still see that maroon boat of a car every once in a while. I always smile whenever it is there because it lets me know he is hanging in there and hopefully still has sound for his TV.

Wow, I went off on a mega-tangent.

I didn't even finish talking about my day. Where was I? Oh, the douche standoff finally ended. The Porsche Douche capitulated and backed up. Probably due to the fact the Hummer Douche has 0 visibility behind him.

When I got home I started devouring my sushi. I finally heard back from my lawyer. He submitted the last of the evidence for my appeal. And I was finally able to confirm he got the records of my ECT treatments from 20 years ago. I worked so hard to get those. At first, they forgot to send all records before 2011. I had to call back and figure that out. They shipped them and they didn't arrive until a week before we had to file. Everything was so last minute and my anxiety has been... palpable. It felt like when I did my science fair project on Sunday night.

He's hoping to get a decision at the beginning of next year. He warned me that these appeals are usually rejected. And that the most effective method of approval was a hearing in front of an administrative law judge. But that could be delayed by up to a year. So I might need to figure out how to survive until 2025. As long as my brother does what he is legally required to do, I should be okay. But counting on that also gives me palpable anxiety.

And that was my day.

Every time I go out is always an adventure.

But remember...

BE NICE. EAT YOUR VEGGIES. PET CUTE DOGS. DREAM BIG. KEEP YOUR TIRES WARM... FOR REASONS. 5 LIFE LESSONS -Froggie, Mildly Famous Internet Person

[thistransient]

More musings on Naha:

- My Japan-visiting history includes Naha in 2018 and Tokyo in 2023 (each for 3 nights). I loved Naha the first time, but did not really have the same feeling about Tokyo (which I chalked up to insufficient planning, sprained ribs, and having gotten over the first-time-in-Japan thrill). But I also loved my second time in Naha! The factors I think are at play:

1. Public transport: there's a singular monorail, no need to navigate Tokyo's convoluted two-company labyrinth of an MRT system. It was also a brisk 12 minute ride from the station nearest my hotel to Naha International, unlike the commute from the city center to the airports servicing Tokyo. It's also only a 1 hr 30 minute flight from Taipei, can't really beat that.

2. Walkability: to get anywhere else in Okinawa one must rent a car, but it's perfectly possible to stroll around Naha center on foot. I spent quite a bit of time on the train in Tokyo (and all that that entailed) trying to explore different neighborhoods, which was tiring. I didn't feel threatened by motorised traffic in either city but I found myself jumping out of the way of bicycles in Tokyo a few times.

3. Shīsā (シーサー, 風獅爺, 獅子): "a traditional Ryukyuan cultural artifact and decoration derived from Chinese guardian lions, often seen in similar pairs, resembling a cross between a lion and a dog, from Okinawan mythology. Shisa are wards, believed to protect from some evils. People place pairs of shisa on their rooftops or flanking the gates to their houses, with the left shisa traditionally having a closed mouth, the right one an open mouth. The open mouth shisa traditionally wards off evil spirits, and the closed mouth shisa keeps good spirits in." I love these things so much, they are so fun to spot while walking around, people even dress them up in little outfits depending on the season!

(At this point I should optimally visit a third city to triangulate my experiences a bit.)

- I find if I only go somewhere for a few days, it can be really nice to not buy a SIM card, just download an offline map, save some restaurant locations, and wander around looking at stuff almost like the pre-smartphone days.

- At some point I was also thinking to myself "wow, sometimes it's nice being in a country with minimal hawkers, hustlers, and touts! No one is trying to sell me stuff unsolicited!" Then I accidentally wandered into the red light district while taking a roundabout stroll to a shrine on the edge of town. The deserted back streets of Naha sprang to life and suddenly I was very popular (I suppose it must get boring for them at noon on a Sunday, but I felt like a lone gazelle on the savanna and made a hasty escape with a lot of head shaking and staring intently at the pavement). Perhaps they intentionally put the brothels near the temple to ensnare wayward tourists, who knows.

- The silence of Naha streets compared to the incessant scooter-revving in Taipei made me wonder how much psychic damage the noise pollution is really dealing me on a daily basis. I was also operating with a Taiwanese mindset when jaywalking across a median to get to a supermarket (only because I'd seen some locals doing it), and stepped back cautiously to wait for an oncoming bus which I was sure would otherwise punch me a one-way ticket to the afterlife. Instead, it STOPPED. There wasn't even a cross-walk! I waved somewhat guiltily and scampered away full of wonderment. Frankly I did not really want to come back from pedestrian heaven where there are zero scooters on the unobstructed sidewalks and crossing the street is not a hair-raising experience.

- By sheer, strange coincidence I ran into a friend on the street (as she was getting off a bus), who definitely should not have been in Japan (she told me she was moving back, probably to Tokyo, only after Christmas)- she was in Okinawa for approximately 24 hours to look at real estate and didn't have time to hang out but it was very surreal to catch up for a couple minutes.

- I was a bit surprised when the airline queue employee in International Departures started talking to me in Japanese off the bat (something that has never happened in TPE with Mandarin, they see a westerner and have real low linguistic expectations), so I eyed her a bit blankly til she was done and then tested out my Duolingo skills with 日本語が話せませ¹ to which she responded 英語?², I said "yeah" and she told me I needed to use the kiosk first, to which I protested that I'm always prompted to go to the counter for document verification, but then for once the thing actually didn't (take note if you're doing visa runs, Peach Aviation evidently gives no shits about exit flights). �� I don't speak Japanese ² English?

To be honest I had had some ambitions for trying out more Duolingo-learnt phrases, but in the moment chickened out and ended up just pointing at stuff lest I give the impression I was capable of more in-depth conversation beyond これをください³. I've had vague thoughts about language school (for the purpose of being able to communicate about print-making and/or shibari, but also to test the waters beyond the tourist experience), and I feel in theory knowing Mandarin first should help with learning kanji, but on the other hand I look at this

and in my mind it says "Jiùmìng dòngyī wa zuòxí no xià ni aimasu". I think I will stay in Taiwan for now. (Also apparently immigration is not super keen on people over 30 with dubious employment history rocking up for language school in Japan, but that's a bridge to cross when one comes to it). ³ Please give me this

- Last but not least, I flew back south only to find Taipei 5 degrees Celsius colder than Naha, the bidet frostier than ever. 再見琉球，等我回來 T_T

[colliholly]

since you plan on continuing the chipposting, do you have any chip x reader headcanons regarding a toon s/o? 👀

Oh buddy I’m a little embarrassed to say you’re about to open Pandora’s box with that question. Absolutely. Thanks for giving me an excuse to talk it

This got a little lengthy so I’ll put it under a cut lol…

🌲 Chainsaw Consultant/Chip Revvington x Reader/Toon S/O

• Chip is generally very reserved, serious and formal. He’s a hard worker with work on his mind most of the time. He's extremely aloof, it must have taken a long time for him to be friendly around you!

• In the rare event he took interest in you, however, you should know he’s never flirted in his life before lol. He’ll be stuffy and a little awkward. Flirting from him would involve him asking if you wanted to get a coffee (Cogfee? Oil?) on his lunch break with him. He’d probably compliment you on really dry things like your work performance or work ethic while nervously adjusting his tie or cuffs.

• Despite his stoic, cold and scary exterior, he’s very sweet and gentle around his loved ones. The last thing he’d want to do is hurt you! Which is a little bit of a challenge, being a huge robot with a massive unwieldy blade on his face, so he tries really hard to be careful around you.

• Likes picking you up and holding you. You’re small and the perfect holding-size, you can’t blame the guy! Though again, he tries to be extremely careful when doing so.

• He wouldn’t be caught dead wearing a chainsaw cover around his coworkers, but he insists on wearing it around you at home, for your safety. Especially since that saw of his will activate in response to certain emotions - like when he’s angry, or laughing, etc.

• He loves simply spending quiet time with you at your estate. You don’t even have to talk, your presence and company is enough. It gives him a moment of peace where he doesn’t have to worry about his demanding bosses, the stress from work, the override, or gags being launched at his head.

• Regarding the override… you’re aware it exists, and before you started dating, he warned you profusely about it. It took a lot of convincing on your part that you trust him and that you’ll stay safe around him. Thankfully, the override only seems to trigger when he’s at work, but he’s still wary. You both agree that you’ll keep a Toon portal on you at all times… just in case you ever need an out.

• There will be times when he’s going to come home after an override at work. He’ll be especially exhausted and likely banged up from potential fights. It’s times like this he’ll appreciate comfort the most.

• Chip is not good with words (he’s a robot meant for business after all) but he’s a good listener. Especially since you always want to help him with his problems, he wants to try to do his best to reciprocate. His love language is very much action-based rather than words. That being said, he’ll listen to what you like. It’s not uncommon for him to come home with gifts that made him think of you.

• Yeah ofc he’s touch-starved, no one wants to be near the huge scary chainsaw guy. Though the thought of being touch-starved never occurred to him much in the past - again, he’s all business. It isn’t until you show him some affection does he realize “Hmm. This is actually very nice.”

• One perk of dating chip is literally 0 Cogs or Toons would try to mess with you out of fear of provoking his wrath lol. He’s also naturally protective. Like I imagine if you go on a dinner date with him you two would get the absolute BEST service due to this.

• Chip is not good at cheering people up (he’s a Cog! His job is to do the complete opposite, you can’t blame him) but he would try regardless. He would crack the most stiff and awkward joke ever (which in itself is really funny to me and would probably cheer me up, personally).

• Speaking of which, he doesn’t make it apparent at all but I think he actually has somewhat of a sense of humor under his cold exterior. He has the world’s DRYEST sense of humor, but it’s there - the kind where you have to do a double take and say “wait, did you just make a joke?” Of course, it only comes out when he's around people he’s comfortable with, like you or Spruce.

• I think having a Toon s/o would help him loosen up just a tad! He’s usually really uptight, but he might be slightly more willing to do “fun” things with you over time. You might be able to convince him to play Toono or go mini golfing. It’s good for him too, he needs a break!

[reedsofintimacy]

How smart are you? You’ve given some hints before but how many degrees do you have? What are you studying? What do you want to do in live professionally and passionately? What’s your purpose career wise?

Also hypothetically would you be open to being your wives employee if she had a really successful company?

I actually don't have any degrees! I'm a nerd and smart but also certainly have my flaws.

For context, I was an honors student all growing up. Always tested in the 99th percentile for state aptitude assessments. I got a 33 on my ACT, did well on a bunch of AP tests and went to a non-ivy-league but prestiguous state school in the top 25% of the incoming class and as a university scholar, in an accelerated chemistry PhD program, and lived in an honors community on campus.

I learned to speak some Chinese, became an instructor for a traditional Korean percussion group, led a bible study, tutored students in organic chemistry, and did excellent in my humanities courses writing on topics like a linguistic study of gender conception in viking-era icelandic society and designing an interventional plan to address youth homelessness in the community.

College was the best 2 years of my life, I adored everything about it but I also completely overloaded myself. Turns out you need more than raw brains for success. I was conflicted between prioritizing my studies vs my faith, and had unadressed adhd and anxiety i wasnt ever aware of and didnt know how to cope with. When my 19 credit hours were drowning me, I couldnt own up to the shame of overwhelm and failure, couldnt look my teachers in the eye and ultimately stopped showing up to class and dropped out.

I'm now back in school with a better understanding of myself, an absense of competing priorities and a lot of experience. Im pursuing working in Radiology doing either CT or MRI. A lot of my friends growing up are finishing their PhD theses and I love discussing them with them, but I myself don't have even an associate's to my name.

Career wise, I originally wanted to be a professor of either Chemistry or Materials Science. I debated majoring in Linguistics or teaching English as a second language but i don't speak anything fluent enough to really do that yet. I've since considered pursuing a career in comedy, as a science communicator and journalist or PIO, as a university student advisor, and taught myself to code to maybe pursue programming.

I love learning. Currently I'm putting the most effort into Chinese classical literature. I've done personal units on nutrition, skincare, fitness, urban planning, economics, and some software like adobe illustrator and game dev with Unity and Godot.

For my professional future, I think I'm for now planning on being a travelling technician in healthcare. It'd give me an opportunity to see lots of different places which is a goal of mine and shouldn't have too many commitments keeping me held in place. Maybe I'll finally get over my fear of casual hookups and become a traveling nurse by day and city-to-city clit servicer by night sampling all sorts of delicious lady bits. Idk. For now I'm just focused on what I'm doing in the moment.

In terms of passions I want time and independence to pursue learning as an autodidact. I'd love to maintain access to university libraries and attend lots of public lectures and symposiums if i could live near enough a big university. I want to read about the things that interest me and someday get over my social anxiety and travel to make friends all over the world with fellow nerds.

In terms of working for my wife of course that would be really sexy I'd love to be my partners doting but slutty assistant 💕 depending on the industry i guess. I think something like insurance or real estate is kind of predatory tbh and wouldnt want to be associated with it. But if I didn't have an issue with it I'd adore being my partners employee. Or even just a supportive house husband or trusted personal assistant ❤️❤️ a role i've always thought I have the potential to be quite good at

[lucaspaqueta007]

How to Find the Ideal Commercial Real Estate for Rent Near Me: A Step-by-Step Guide

Securing the right commercial real estate is a critical decision that can significantly impact the success of your business. Whether you're a startup searching for your first office, a retailer looking to expand, or a business owner in need of a warehouse, finding the perfect commercial space requires careful planning and research. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to finding the best "Commercial Real Estate for Rent Near Me," ensuring you make an informed decision. Commercial Real Estate for Rent Near Me

1. Identify Your Business Needs

Before you begin your search, it's crucial to clearly define what you need from your commercial space. Consider the following factors:

Size and Layout: How much square footage do you need? What layout will best suit your operations?

Location: Which areas are most convenient for your customers, employees, and suppliers?

Budget: What is your price range, including rent, utilities, and other expenses?

Amenities: Are there specific features or services that your business requires, such as parking, security, or high-speed internet?

2. Research the Local Market

Understanding the local commercial real estate market is essential for finding the best options. Use the following strategies:

Online Listings: Start by searching online for "Commercial Real Estate for Rent Near Me." Websites like LoopNet, Zillow, and local real estate agencies often have comprehensive listings.

Commercial Real Estate Brokers: Consider hiring a broker who specializes in commercial properties in your area. They can provide valuable insights and help you find properties that meet your criteria.

Market Trends: Stay informed about local market trends, including average rental rates, vacancy rates, and new developments. This knowledge can help you negotiate better terms.

3. Visit Potential Spaces

Once you've shortlisted a few properties, schedule visits to assess them in person. During your visit:

Evaluate the Location: Is it easily accessible? Is there enough foot traffic if needed? How is the neighborhood?

Inspect the Property: Look for any signs of wear and tear, and assess the overall condition of the building.

Check Compliance: Ensure that the space complies with local zoning laws and building codes. You may need to verify if the property is suitable for your specific type of business.

Consider Future Growth: Choose a space that can accommodate your business as it grows. Flexibility in the lease terms can be beneficial.

4. Negotiate the Lease

After finding the ideal space, the next step is to negotiate the lease terms. Here’s what to consider:

Lease Length: Determine the ideal duration of the lease. Longer leases may offer stability, while shorter leases provide flexibility.

Rent Increases: Understand how rent will increase over time and whether there are caps on these increases.

Maintenance Responsibilities: Clarify who is responsible for repairs and maintenance—landlord or tenant.

Exit Clauses: Ensure there are clear terms regarding breaking the lease if necessary.

5. Finalizing the Deal

Before signing the lease, take the following precautions:

Legal Review: Have a legal professional review the lease to ensure it protects your interests.

Get Everything in Writing: Any verbal agreements or promises made during negotiations should be documented in the lease.

Insurance: Arrange for the necessary insurance coverage for your new business space.

6. Prepare for Move-In

Once the lease is signed, start preparing for the move. Consider the following:

Renovations: If the space needs modifications to fit your business, coordinate these before moving in.

Utilities and Services: Set up utilities, internet, and any other essential services in advance.

Furnishing and Equipment: Plan the layout and order any furniture or equipment needed for your operations.

Conclusion

Finding the best "Commercial Real Estate for Rent Near Me" requires time, research, and careful consideration of your business needs. By following these steps, you can secure a space that not only meets your current requirements but also supports your long-term business goals. Remember, the right location and setup can make a significant difference in your business’s success, so take the time to find the perfect fit.

[renee-writer]

All's Fair Chapter 3

AO3

After six months, two surgeries, a cast on most of her lower body, and months of rehab, she is released to go home. She is anxious to get out of hospital but not to return to her Uncle Lamb’s home without him.  She knows from Nubia  that he is buried in the Egyptian style, along with Yussef. Now all that is left to do is grief.

 

Honorably discharged from His Majesty ‘s service, she heads home. Susan meets her at the door and helps her to her new room on the bottom floor. There she collapses on the bed and sobs, for Uncle Lamb and Yussef, for her parents, for all the soldiers, airmen, and others that she has seen die.

 

As the months went by, she grows used to living in Uncle Lamb ‘s home. With a stipend from the army, as well as, money provided by his estate for the upkeep of the house, she is able to take time to decide what she wants to do.

 

Botany or healthcare? She ponders which to finish her degree in.

 

The book from Geillis is a treasure. It amazes her to think it has been around since the 1600’s. So many plants that were available for healing! Plants that were indigenous to England and Scotland, some she wasn’t sure are still around. On those, she made notes on, planning on looking them up.

 

One day as she sat going over the notes, sipping a cup of tea, she hears a knock on the door.  Raising with her brand new cane, she goes to answer it.

 

Her cane, found in a local  charity shop, with a head of amber containing a dragonfly, was necessary. Her legs are still unsteady and shoes are a near impossibility, worn only when she must. For the house, it is slippers that she slips on, on the way to the door.

 

She opens it to a tall, redheaded man who reminds her of the gods in the Cairo museum. Though none have cropped red hair and stand alive at her doorstep.

 

He bows to her, his blue eyes sparkling, “ Mistress  Claire Beauchamp?”

 

“Yes, how may I help you?”

 

“Mistress Beauchamp, I am James Fraser Esquire. Myself and my partner, Ned Gowan Esquire, are in charge of your late uncle’s estate. We are quite sorry for your loss and offer heartfelt condolences. He was a great man. If you have time, I would like to come in a discuss the disposition of his estate.” He takes a breath and continues, “apologies for not phoning ahead. I am in Oxford for only a few days. I was brought here on other business and hoped to see you at the same time.”

 

She steps aside, inviting him in. His presence was another reminder of her loss. Tears gathered but none fall as she asks, “Would you care for some tea Mr. Fraser?”

 

“That would be lovely. Thank you.” She leads him to the table where he rests his briefcase. Turning back after fetching another cup, she sees he has removed a stack of papers out of it, as thick as a book. Her eyes grow wide.

 

“Miss Beauchamp, were you aware of the size of your uncle’s estate?”

 

She is shaking her head as she answers, “No, Mr. Fraser. Uncle Lamb took care of everything. There is an account that sees to the incidentals here and I get a stipend from the army for my injury. That is all I am aware of.”

 

“Mr. Gowan and myself were sorry to hear of your injury and pray you are feeling better and fully heal.”

 

She nods and sets the small tray of biscuits in the middle of the table. “I was injured taken care of soldiers. An honor to have served.”

 

He nods. “Aye. I would have enjoyed the honor of service to King and country. Unfortunately a back injury disqualified me.” He looks to the tray of biscuits, reaches for one before pulling his hand back, “May I?”

 

She smiles and nods. “Yes. Help yourself.”

 

He does. “Back to business. Your uncle owned this house here, your parent’s  house in Inverness. His home in Egypt has been gifted to his friend ‘s mam, Nubia. This house and your parents, you inherit. There is also three life insurance policies. One for each of your parents, one for Lamb. Between them they pay out 5,000,000 pounds sterling, all to you. Ah, let’s see…” He ruffles the papers as she sits stunned. She has no idea about any of these.

 

“A bank account in Edinburgh worth £3,000,000, the antiques in both houses that are valued at £3,000,000 more, if you wished to sell them. There are several museums awaiting your decision on that.

 

You can sell the Inverness house and live here or sell this house and live in Edinburgh. It is fully up to you. We can see all the money placed in one account of a bank of your choice or leave it in several. I will place your Uncle ‘s life insurance policy in the Edinburgh bank where both himself and your parents held accounts. There is also a small, ah, not a farm but a place to grow things, one second,” He searches through the papers, “ah here it is, a flower shop with a greenhouse attached.”

 

He remembered, she thinks. He knew my interest in plants and provided for it. She swallows back more tears.

 

“It was purchased two years before you went to war with a Miss Mary MacNab seeing to it’s care.” He keep looking through the will. “Oh, you have a stack in Lallybroch, my family estate. Your uncle and my father are, err were, very close friends . I didn’t know that “ He looks up from the papers, “May I trouble you to use your phone and ring my dad?”

 

“Of course.” She stands and points to where it sits. He raises, gives her a half bow and heads over to it.

 

“Da, I am at the home of a Mistress Claire Beauchamp going over her late uncle’s  estate, a Mr. Quinton Lambert Beauchamp.”

 

“Lamb, aye, I was so sorrowed by his passing.” Brian replies.

 

“Aye, it seems he owns  25 percent of our horse breeding program.”

 

“Aye son. We needed the capital to get started. As he was a good mate…”

 

“Mistress Claire has ownership now. I will see the profit to her account.”

 

“A good lass, is she, Jamie?”

 

“Aye da. I will see you and mam after I finish my business in Oxford.” He rings off.

 

“Sorry about that. I just wasn’t aware my da needed money to get our horse breeding business started. I would have helped, would he have came to me.”

 

“I am sure Uncle Lamb was happy to. He was a very giving soul.”

 

“Aye,” he gives her a smile, “The profits from your stake will be added to the account. Do you have any questions for me?”

 

She can’t think of any, her mind to overwhelmed by all she has found out. “Not right now. This is a lot to take in. Uncle Lamb and I lived simply. I would never suspect that he would leave this much, making me a very wealthy woman. Oh, one question, if I decide to sell this house, what is the house in Inverness like?”

 

“I can check into that when I return to Scotland. From what I can recall, it is one story with three or four rooms and a few loos. The shop is very near it. Would that be something you are interested in?”

 

“I am not sure right now. Will need time to think on it. Is there anything I need to sign?”

 

“Not right now,” he gathers up the papers, placing them back in his briefcase, “before I leave Oxford, I will return with the papers needing signatures. It was a pleasure to meet you Miss Beauchamp. If you have any questions before I return, you can reach my office,” he hands her a card and their hands glaze. She feels a tingle at the contact, something she has never felt before, “ah, they can reach me, Miss Beauchamp.”

 

“Please, call me Claire.”

 

“Claire, call me Jamie then.” They stand, grinning at each other.

 

“Well, I must be off, Claire. I shall see you in a few days.”

 

“Yes Jamie.” She walks him to the door.

 

Susan prepares supper. She offers to help but she insists that she rest.

 

After dinner, there is a banging on the door. Claire raises, confused by who would be so rude at that time of night. Then she hears Frank.

 

“Claire , Claire, why didn’t you tell me you were injured?”

 

She opens the door. “Frank, I wrote you and told you. You never wrote me back. Oh, a German soldier toke your ring.” She holds her hand out, “Where have you been and why didn’t you write me back?” she demands.

 

“I was out in the field collecting intelligence. I just heard of your ambush.”

 

She rolls her eyes. “Frank, you are lying. I was hurt eight months ago. We lost eight British officers. You are telling me you didn’t know that?”

 

“Claire, I never got a letter from you.”

 

“No, you just never read them. Go away Frank. I don’t need you in my life.” She shuts the door in his face.

 

She then picks up the phone. Reaching the operator, she gives her the number on the card Jamie gave her. Jamie called back in less then an hour.

 

“Mr. Fraser, Jamie, you can put this house on the market. I wish to move to Inverness.”

 

Jamie is smiling as they ring off.