Probate - A Personal Journey

After looking after mother-in-law's financial affairs for many years under a power of attorney, we decided to carry out probate ourselves. There were two executors named in the will, but this was a difficult time emotionally for the family. Although I felt a great affection for mother-in-law, for me there was an element of detachment which suggested that I should be in the driving seat.
So, I started out on what I thought could be a lengthy and arduous process. It was not. There were hiccups, of course, but none of any great consequence. The process didn't take long, and it was not expensive. Anyone of reasonable intelligence, who can use a computer, write letters, keep accurate records, and understand official guidance should be perfectly capable of obtaining grant of probate and administering an estate.
This is a diary of what happened to me. It is not a typical 'How To' guide, but is a record of my personal experience.
I hope it will encourage others to take the plunge.