Can you believe we just finished the first week of September?

How did that happen? Wasn’t it just Christmas 2024?

Time seems to fly by so much faster than when I was younger.

This week I spent some time with long-time clients and friends. Their daughter, off to her second year of college, is ready to conquer the world. Last summer, she interned for us; just a fantastic young woman.

Together with her parents, we discussed where they were personally and financially. Things are going well.

We discussed how all the planning we’ve done over the last two decades is working as planned – and even better in some respects.

As we sat there chatting and discussing what the next steps would be – as their next child enters college, and they plan for their own retirement, I was struck by how many years I have known these people.

I remembered when their children were young and when they themselves were just getting started.
‘Working to build what they have built.
‘Unsure of how it would all go.
‘All of the conversations we had to get them to where they are today.

Upon leaving, we all hugged and said our farewells for the day.

Later that evening, I received the following message from them: “It was great seeing you, JD. Thank you for everything you and your team do for our family….and extended family! We appreciate you so much.”

That is really what it is all about.

Knowing how people feel is a reward unmatched.

Relationships are not built in a day. They start in a day, but they build over many days and years.

Time will keep on moving. The question is, will we let it pass us by, or will we enjoy the ride?

I say, enjoy and cherish every day.

After all, what else is there?!

-J.D.