The last quarter of the year is always our most productive quarter. People wake up on a cool, Autumn morning and say… the year is ending… I better make some moves before it is too late.
The moves to keep your financial house in good order don’t have to be on the top of your mind, because they’re on the top of our to-do lists (unless you’ve been procrastinating on some of the recommendations that we’ve given you over the past 9 months). In general, we have those covered for you. They may include stuff like tax planning, loss harvesting, charitable giving, new entity formation, making substantial gifts, updating business valuations, improving your company’s retirement plan, updating your estate documents, improving your insurance coverages, changing ownership to some assets for more protection….
But the year end moves I’m talking about are in the joy, fun and family category for the rest of this year and for next year. They say charity begins at home, so why don’t you start with getting to some of your own bucket list items in 2026. Going to Australia? Going to the Olympics, the Masters, the World Series or Super Bowl? How about that Luxury vehicle that you’ve been dreaming about or graduate level courses in areas that have always piqued your curiosity? Is it too late to learn how to play the bass?
As for Joan and me, we have a few things on the books already. One is a trip to Las Vegas to see the Eagles at the Sphere. We are going in January and would love to see some of you join us for that fun adventure. And just in case you’re wondering… I am not a gambler. I can spend days in Vegas and not even be tempted by the flashing lights or gaming tables. I’d rather see the Carrot Top show than watch our money fund their opulent buildings.
On the family side, I’d start thinking about holiday gifts now. Do your grandkids really need more toys? I personally have a small lifetime experience in mind for my kids and grandchildren that if used properly, can change their lives and well-being forever. As they are readers of this letter, I really shouldn’t say much more about this.
I have always admired those who take the time for one-on-one experiences with their grandchildren. With 8 grandchildren for us (at least for now!), that could keep us busy all year… but they are starting to get to the age where it now seems plausible for some of them. My grandson, Jack, got a highly anticipated day on the course with me just last week, though I’m fairly certain he was only in it for the golf cart rides. And If you’re thinking about trips with the little ones… book your trips now. You know how expensive flying is when the school vacation weeks get closer.
