“Don’t get a haircut!” That was my father’s reaction years ago when I told him I was about to have a professional photograph taken. I was baffled. I had no more hair then than I do now. Why this odd advice? Dad proceeded to tell me about his own experience. He’d once had his picture […]
The Problem with Financial Plans Based on Sad Stories Read More »
When my wife and I are on the interstate, nothing makes her more nervous than me passing an 18-wheeler. (In her defense, I’m not the one who would first feel the effects of a tractor-trailer swerving violently in our direction.) If she senses even the slightest movement our way, she ends up in my lap!
5 Ways You Can Be Safer Financially Read More »
Life is made up of promises, big and small. From marriages, to mortgages, to meals delivered on time, we depend on others—as they depend on us—to keep the promises that have been made. Take the young man who pledges to be faithful to his young bride “till death do us part.” That’s a promise he
Making and Keeping Promises Read More »
Didn’t see that one coming, did you? We’ve been so focused on a deadly pandemic and unceasing political drama that we missed the onset of…winter. You remember winter, don’t you? Normally in Louisiana, it’s that brief period between the Sugar Bowl and the Super Bowl. At least, that’s the way I remember it. Until this
What an Arctic Blast Can Teach Us Read More »
On Valentine’s Day, what could possibly be more romantic than flowers, chocolate…and life insurance? On second thought, let’s reserve February 14 for sweet notes, roses, and intimate dinners. Do the life insurance part on February 13 (or save it till the 15th). But definitely do it. Here’s why… Life insurance is love assurance. It demonstrates
In my first meeting with a new client, we typically do what I call a “data dump.” They bring all their financial information and dump it (sometimes literally) on my desk. Right now, I’m thinking of a particular young couple. They owned a business and had two young children at home. They were busy folks!
Is Your Most Valuable Asset Protected? Read More »
In one sense, Laura and Sally didn’t sneak up on anyone. Meteorologists helped us track both hurricanes from their births deep in the warm Atlantic waters to their tempestuous tromps through coastal cities and towns. Laura devastated Lake Charles as she worked her way up the western side of south Louisiana. As I write this,
Are You Ready for the Next Storm? Read More »
The interviews are over. You’ve managed to make it through the gauntlet and emerge on the other side, ready to claim that new job. All that remains is for them to make the offer and you to accept. “We are pleased to be able to make you a job offer to become part of the
Which Job Do You Want? Read More »
Question: All the uncertainty surrounding the Coronavirus has me wondering how effective long-term planning can be during times like these. What do you think? Answer: “My life has been filled with terrible misfortune; most of which never happened.” So said French philosopher Michel de Montaigne over 500 years ago…which just goes to show you worry is
Coronavirus – Good Reason to Delay Planning? Read More »
“If I have my mind, I can work.” “Great,” I answered. “Let’s test that theory out.” I opened my drawer and pulled out a hammer, laying it gently on the desk between us. “Please place your hand palm down on the desk,” I said. “Your off-hand is fine. And please don’t move it…the hammer can
Your Disaster Scenario Read More »
Speak with an Advisor