Dear Ann Landers,
y husband was open-mouthed, slack-jawed and almost turned gray overnight when I told him I wanted to hire a wood craftsman to design a beautiful chest to use in the family room and put some cushions on it so people can sit there-then, when I die, I want it to be my coffin. Besides being able to store blankets in this chest, I will know and become accustomed to my final resting place. I am a practical person. My husband thinks I am crazy. I also told him I want a private funeral, the most inexpensive one available, only wild flowers, and that he should not have me embalmed. I hate funerals and do not want my friends and family looking at me in that shape. Do you think I am kooky? If I put this in my will, who should I give it to? If you print my letter, I ask that I remain anonymous. I'm in enough trouble with my family over this. The neighbors don't have to know.

Dear Oklahoma,
If this is what you want, I see no reason why you shouldn't have it. Putting the instructions in your will ensures nothing. You may be buried before the will is read. Your best bet is to discuss the situation with one of your children, your clergyman and your physician. Be-tween the three of them, someone should see to it that your wishes are respected.