As we rolled through the unofficial last days of summer, we looked around each morning and saw the yellow school buses pick up the neighborhood kids with brand new backpacks and clean sneakers. I can remember being anxious about heading back to school. What class would I be in, what was my teacher like, … I know we can all fill in the blanks. It is a clear break in the calendar, which I find is a perfect time to reflect on the summer activities we did and what we can plan for next summer.
In looking back at those memories, what you remember was who you went with – what the mood was – how hard you laughed – how much you enjoyed yourself. It is quickly forgotten how much money something costs. Did you splurge on the ticket? Was it on sale? Or was it a gift from someone? You really must think about that. I’m saying all of this because we all need a plan to empower our spending (no matter how much or how little). And then you need to build a plan for implementation so you can enjoy your 168 hours per week, or the ‘100 days of summer’ in this case.
Looking back at our 100 days of summer, we did some memorable things. I took Natalie to her first Red Sox game, and she devoured her first Fenway Frank (proud dad moment!). We all went on the log flume at Canobie Lake park – yes, even Holly who isn’t even 2 ½ yet (but is exactly 36 inches to do the ride). We went on hikes and to museums. To the zoo and to the beach. Below are a few pictures of the highlights.
It may be a surprise to some that your financial planner wants you to spend – but we do, just with the proper plan. Everyone reading this has worked so hard and accomplished so much to become financially stable. Now it is time to enjoy yourself because you don’t know what will happen tomorrow and you cannot take all that money with you. Enjoy it the way you want but keep us informed so we can keep your plan up to date.
Until next time.
