Cold mornings, black ice on the north side of the valley, and a clear road just a mile away—mountain weather keeps you humble. That same unpredictability shows up in life events, which is why we sat down with attorney Jane Dearwester to connect winter preparedness with estate planning that actually works when the road disappears. From Hurricane Helene to fast-moving forest fires and sudden evacuations, Jane shares how her Hendersonville team built resilience: checking on staff across elevations, setting remote work protocols, and keeping signings and client support moving even when the power blinked and supplies thinned.

We carry those lessons straight into your home and finances. Jane breaks down the essential documents—durable financial power of attorney, health care power of attorney, HIPAA release, living will, will or trust—and explains how they prevent guardianship, unblock access to accounts, and keep medical decisions in trusted hands. We also dive into property strategies like Lady Bird deeds and how trusts can protect assets and streamline benefits, especially when timing and eligibility matter. The message is clear: planning early gives you options; waiting narrows your choices at the exact moment you need them most.

If you’ve ever wondered whether four-wheel drive equals safety, Jane’s PSA says otherwise: it helps on snow, not on ice. The legal parallel is powerful—good intentions slide, signed authority grips. You’ll hear practical tips for winter kits (boots, blanket, charger), a simple activation sheet for families, and the operational steps that keep a practice serving clients when roads close. Use this conversation as your cue to put both kinds of preparedness in place. Subscribe for more practical guides, share this with someone driving into winter unprepared, and leave a review with the one action you’re taking this week to secure your plan.