Tying the Knot

After many years of marriage, separation and divorce I have found a woman that I've been living with these last four years who still makes me smile, laugh and can stimulate both my mind and body. So, we're going to do it... Tying the knot!

At 51 years of age (she's only 38) I don't really feel the need to marry again. My children are all over the age of 20 so I'm not about to start a new family. My lady Carline is divorced, two boys and has no interest in having any more children. So why make it legal? Why go through a marriage or handfasting?

Well, since I injured my neck almost three years ago, I've not been able to return to full time work. WSIB won't pay me a disability since they feel one should be able to work every day with a near migraine headache. Oh, there are drugs that can help take away the pain, but you know, I would rather have a headache than risk heart attack, stomach ulcers, impotence, flat affect (feeling like furniture) dry mouth, dizziness, fatigue and the list goes on.

So, I'm now a house husband and I love it... Most of the time. But I have no income other than what the store generates and to be honest it's only three years old and still growing so the income is still nill.

Carline has two young boys that would be left with me if something were to happen to her. But what if family contested? She wouldn't want them to go elsewhere but I may have no choice if the court orders it.

If I passed away, would she inherit my estate even if I will it? Or can someone contest that too since we're not legally married? What of my share of the business? Would she get that too or would she have to fight for it?

Anyway, I'm sure legal agreements can be drawn up and contracts signed but still is it worth all that just to protect yourself from people outside of our family?

It would seem that getting married is the best way to protect yourself from people contesting your will, your property and your business ventures.

What do you think?