How much do your children or grandchildren know about money, where it comes from, and how to use it? Understanding money, the work required to earn it and the knowledge to manage it, are important parts of any good education. In late 2011, I opened trading accounts for all four grandchildren at Charles Schwab. These accounts weren’t some fancy inheritance tax strategy, or college savings accounts, rather small custodial accounts that couldn’t be cashed out until age 21. The goal was education …
Bruce
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“Granddaddy Day” – Priceless
It started in 2005 as my Christmas gift to our four grandchildren. I wrote each their own card announcing “Granddaddy Days.” They were to be special days when we would spend time together, one grandchild at a time, for the full day. The initial impressions that morning were not good, but quickly became a cherished tradition. Seeing the world through the eyes of my grandchildren is wonderful. I often think about where their curious minds will take them as they grow.
Finding The Perfect Home
My mother collected many things her trips to Florida, including two prints. For years, they sat in a dark storage cabinet in my home. Now they are back home in Florida, back out in the sunshine. I’m sure they will be comfortable there. Now, in their new home, people will look at them and they’ll look back, pleased. I want that for everyone, even my things ..
It’s Time To Lace Up My Shoes and Volunteer
I was caught by images of a white dog, then a veteran, some homeless people, refugees and immigrants, and even a polar bear. I heard their cry for help, I could see it in their expressions. It wasn’t until the end of the commercial that I realized I’d been watching an ad for an insurance company. I don’t know if I’ll buy their insurance but I want to follow their advice …
Live Longer! Start Blogging!
They say, You can’t teach old dogs new tricks, but I think new skills are important for “oldsters.” For some of us, the new trick can be learning to appreciate music, or to play a new instrument. For others, it’s learning a second language, or tutoring younger students. Some explore volunteering and exercising to stay active and busy. The new trick list is long because any new cognitive activity will work magic. It can take us from just “Oldsters” to “Super-Oldsters.” Me? I blog.
Turn Off The Radio And Sing
When I finished my cancer treatment, it turned out that the journey back was longer and slower than I had planned. I tried many alternative therapies, but there was one possible cure I never stumbled across … until I stumbled across Fia Jack Skye.
A Lawn Chair and Six-Pack in the Age of Trump
Few people know Yellowstone country better than wildlife biologist Jeremy Schmidt. Jeremy has spent more than 30 years in the area, working as a winter keeper, park ranger, naturalist, photographer, and author. I asked Jeremy what he would do if he knew it was about to erupt – to blow. Jeremy’s response lingers, “Bruce, I’d set up my lawn chair, grab a six-pack, and enjoy the fireworks …
When “NO” Was Not A Choice
Smucker’s would be the ideal fit for us. But when I finally got the Region Manager on the phone, he told me he would only be in Charlotte for one day and his interview schedule was already full. Sorry. Later that evening, my thoughts started to come together. I was not going to accept his NO answer. Period.
Handshakes Matter
I won’t say that I ever made a decision solely on a person’s handshake, but I will say the handshake is always a big part of my first impression of that person. Good handshakes convey warmth and strength. They’re firm but never overpowering, conveying confidence and truthfulness. I trust a good handshake, and at the close of the meeting I feel comfortable with my partner, never pulled off-balance.
A Family Tradition of Gratitude
Family gatherings, especially around the holidays, can be packed with traditions. Some old, some newer, but it’s the traditions forgotten – then revived, that can be the most special. This past Christmas there was a dented silver cup on the table with slips of paper folded inside. It went overlooked among all the other offerings on our festive table until midway through the meal …