By Cindy Kent

Here's a follow-up to my post earlier this month about discussing wills with your loved ones.

Since I brought up the topic before Valentine's Day, reactions have ranged from "Oh, that's nice," to "You guys are really smart to do that," to "Gee, how morbid." Of my three children, one said we didn't need to do wills -- but he really meant he'd rather not think about it.

Tom, the 12 year old, was trying to work out the implications and logistics in his head when he blurted, "How long would I have to wait to get your car?" He wasn't being selfish or greedy -- he was trying to figure it out.

"Hopefully, you'll have your own life and family and car by then," I smiled. He thought about it for a moment and then corrected himself.

"Wait," he said apologetically, " I mean, forget what I said."

"It's something we are sure we will not have to deal with for years and years," I explained. "And besides," I smiled, "By then, I'll have a Mercedes. That's the car you'll want!"

We laughed. Tom was relieved. Keeping the discussion to facts and adding a sense of humor has helped to keep the topic approachable.

Though we went to a lawyer to draw up our wills, there are a few Web sites that are helpful in beginning the discussion. Here are two: The Florida Bar, and Caring Connections, which provides forms that conform to state laws.

How have you dealt with the issue?

Cindy Kent is a reporter assistant at the Sun-Sentinel and a Fort Lauderdale mother of three children ages 12 to 28.