Marriage is an exciting time in one’s life. Planning for a wedding entails a lot of time and effort, regardless of the size of the celebration. Nowadays, there are many layers to consider when contemplating those nuptials. Where will you live? Do you want kids? Are you marrying into an instant family? Ask yourself if… Read more »
The Parent Trap
- By Michele T. Sarna, CFP®, AIF®
- January/February 2021
Hello, 2021! Boy, are we glad to see you. However, with an unbelievable year behind us, many are still faced with the repercussions of the extraordinary events in 2020; pointedly, the need for families to move in together. Whether you are a recent college graduate or a full household, moving home takes on a whole… Read more »
To ROTH or Not to ROTH That is the Question.
- By Michele T. Sarna, CFP®, AIF®
- November/December 2020
I often get questions on ROTH contributions and how they work, who they work for, and which is better to contribute to – a traditional or ROTH IRA. There is a lot to be said about ROTHs. Below is a brief summary. Named after former Delaware Senator William Roth Jr., the ROTH IRA was established… Read more »
A Tale of Two Decades
- By Michele T. Sarna, AIF, AWMA
- September/October 2020
When looking back at the roaring ‘20s I think of flappers, jazz music and prohibition. However, it was a time of social and political change, defiance and the great stock market crash. Sound familiar? We’re barely in the first year of a new decade and it’s already lived up to the name of Roaring 20… Read more »
How to Teach Your Dog to Run
- By Michele T. Sarna, AIF, AWMA
- July/August 2020
The Event. Recently, our family adopted another dog and I was excited for a potential running buddy. I knew Jack would need a little training and guidance, but this guy was made to be a running companion. In the beginning, we took him out for walks around the neighborhood, so he could get comfortable with… Read more »
Trying to Hang Ten in a Tidal Wave
- By Michele T. Sarna, AIF, AWMA
- May/June 2020
The year is 2020 and I’m on an island called Pandemic. The plan was to relax and enjoy the spring while preparing for the summer surf season. As I look out to sea, the series of waves catches my attention. There is a calming element to watching the tide go in and out. Depending on… Read more »
CalSavers is Coming, CalSavers is Coming!
- By Michele T. Sarna, AIF, AWMA
- March/April 2020
With our nation in a retirement savings crisis, California has joined seven other states in implementing a savings plan for employees: the CalSavers Retirement Savings Program. It is a state-run retirement plan for all companies that do not offer an employee-sponsored plan such as a 401(k), 403(b), SEP, SIMPLE or Payroll Deduction IRA with automatic… Read more »
The Bucket List
- By Michele T. Sarna, AIF, AWMA
- January/February 2020
Ringing in the New Year always sparks reflection on a new beginning and enthusiastic goals for the year ahead. Whether it be personal growth, must do experiences, or starting a new way of eating, we plan by jotting it down on paper, making a visual board, or telling someone our desires to be held accountable.… Read more »
Allocation Pie
- By Michele T. Sarna, AIF, AWMA
- November/December 2019
‘Tis the season…to eat pie! With the holidays around the corner, many of us will forego our diets and allow ourselves to enjoy the season baking our favorite desserts to share with family and friends or enjoy the benefits of the enthusiastic chefs in the group. As a seasonal baker, I reflected on the time… Read more »
How to Talk to Your Kids About The “S” Word…SAVINGS!
- By Michele T. Sarna, AIF, AWMA (and mother of 4)
- September/October 2019
It’s back to school time again and excitement is in the air for students and parents. Whether the kids are starting kindergarten, heading off to college, or somewhere in between, for many of us, this means long lists of school supplies, new clothes, new backpacks, and a drained wallet. Nevertheless, it’s a great time to… Read more »
My Friend “Charity”
- By Michele T. Sarna, AIF, AWMA
- July/August 2019
I have a close friend, Charity. I like Charity. She’s one of those friends who always makes you feel good about yourself. Unfortunately, as with most friends, finding time to spend together presents challenges. We are busy with work, family, and other commitments. Sometimes, months go by without ever connecting. Like a true friend, however,… Read more »
Buying a Home: Lessons from Three Little Pigs
- By Michele T. Sarna, AIF, AWMA
- May/June 2019
Once upon a time there were 3 little pigs that wanted to buy a house. Each of them had their own ideas on where they wanted to live so they each went off to find a home. House of Straw. The first little pig met with a lender and to its surprise could qualify for… Read more »
Summiting the Markets
- By Michele T. Sarna, AIF, AWMA
- March/April 2019
A few years back I took on the challenge to hike and summit Mt. Whitney, the tallest peak in California at 14, 505 feet. For weeks I hiked, ran, and did whatever I thought was necessary to physically prepare for the event–not to mention practicing carrying a 35-pound backpack with all the necessities. In reflecting… Read more »
The Game of Golf “FORE” Savings
- By Michele T. Sarna, AIF, AWMA
- January/February 2019
Learning how to play the game of golf can be very challenging. The terminology alone is a hurdle in itself: bogey, eagle, mulligan, shank, fried egg! Seriously, was this originally an initiation into a secret society? Nonetheless, those who play are passionate about the game. Understandably so. You spend a good part of the day… Read more »
The Tortoise and the Hare
- By Michele T. Sarna
- November/December 2018
Remember the famous fable The Hare and the Tortoise? Spoiler Alert: The tortoise ends ups winning the race. That story always comes to mind when speaking with individuals about saving for retirement. The tortoise looked at the race as a marathon – maintained a steady pace, kept his eye on the finish line, didn’t deviate… Read more »
Financial Fitness
- By Michele T. Sarna
- September/October 2018
As we fall into a new season, staying focused on wellness may fade away with the summer tide. Whether we spent the first part of the year working towards that summer body or a desired fitness goal, we tend to lose focus during the fall and winter months. Year after year, we put a lot… Read more »