Mom’s driver may be conman

Dear Annie: My mother, who is elderly and cannot drive, employs a taxi driver named “George” on a regular basis. George is in his 30s and married with children. He has befriended my mom, calls her on her cell phone to chat when she’s out of town visiting my sister, and has even taken her with him on a family vacation.

I just found out George was named executor for the estate of an elderly man who is another customer of his. George will inherit $1.5 million when this man passes away.

Does George sound like a con man who knows how to get elderly people to sign over their money to him, or just a friendly guy to whom people want to leave their life savings? I’m worried about my mother and not sure what to do. Am I worried over nothing? – Concerned Daughter

Dear Concerned: No. Taking Mom on vacation is plenty unusual, and although it’s possible George is just a great guy, it pays to be careful. First check to see if George has a criminal record. Then, no matter the results, explain to Mom that it’s time she spoke to a lawyer about updating her will and assigning someone to make health care decisions for her should she become unable to do so herself. Offer to set up the appointment and accompany her. Too many children are reluctant to bring up end-of-life subjects, but these matters should not be left until it’s too late to arrange them properly.

Dear Annie: My husband spent 25 years in the military, and we tried to make love every night he was home. We were married for more than 47 years. He was my husband, best friend and lover. We talked about everything and set aside time for family. When the children grew up and left home, we still made a point of taking time to talk. Our lovemaking stopped only when my husband’s cancer made him too weak to do anything but hold me and kiss me and tell me he loved me.

A good marriage is based on mutual respect and wanting the best for your spouse. It’s a two-way street. Marriage is never perfect, and it is not 50-50. My husband never did housework, but I never changed the tires or took care of the yard.

Making love to someone you truly love is not a chore, but something I looked forward to. My husband died in January and my world ended. My advice is to love completely and enjoy every minute you have. – Arkansas

Dear Arkansas: We appreciate your sharing your beautiful love story. We send our deepest condolences.