December 2024 Newsletter:
Wisdom & Wealth
In the spirit of the festive season, our team is excited to share what makes the holidays special to them. Whether it’s cherished traditions, delicious holiday treats, or cozy winter activities—let’s spread some holiday cheer and discover what makes this time of year so meaningful!
What Makes The Holidays Special To You?
Robyn Hill
JD, CFP®
Our holidays were always magical with many traditions, including a birds’ tree, candy wreath, gingerbread house and dolls’ Christmas. Perhaps my favorite was that stuffed animals “come to life” on Christmas Eve, but only for that magical night. Christmas morning, we would wake to find them frozen where they were when the magic ended … playing with our toys, scarfing Christmas cookies or waving to Santa as he went back up the chimney. My sons loved this one too and insisted on my keeping it up well into their twenties (and long after the stuffed animals were moved to the attic).
Olivia Cooper
Operations Manager
While I’m not the biggest fan of the cold and early evenings winter brings, I always find myself looking forward to the magic of the holiday season. There’s just something so special about this time of year! One of my favorite things to do is bake. There’s a unique joy in stepping into the kitchen, trying out new recipes, and sharing those delicious treats with friends and family. I especially love making gingerbread cookies, peppermint bark, and other holiday classics. But, if I’m being honest, nothing quite compares to a classic chocolate chip cookie.
Stephan Hess
CFP® CDFA®
I always used to be a bit of a grinch, especially towards those who would put their holiday decorations up the day after Thanksgiving, but guess what? That’s exactly what we did this year, and it was me who was leading the charge. It always seemed that the holidays, and my growing holiday spirit, would be over right when I was just getting into it. Well, this year, I wanted to change that and fully experience the season. Since November we have had our favorite songs playing, a half-finished puzzle on a table, and lots of lights, decorations, and great holiday smells happening. I love it!
Sara Kate Garman
CPA
The holiday season is special—from family time and sweet treats to Christmas movies with hot cocoa—so it’s hard to pick just one favorite thing! This year, I’m focusing on being present to make the holidays truly memorable. With all the activities, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle, but I’ve realized how fleeting these moments are. My goal is to slow down and savor time with loved ones. By being mindful and present, I hope to fully embrace the magic of the season and create lasting memories with those who make it so special.
Derek Hess
CFP®
I’m certainly not the most gifted baker, but I do like to help my wife prepare cookies to give our friends and family around the holidays. From growing up with my mom, and now living with my wife, I’m always surrounded by sweet treats this time of the year, and I like to share this with others. I do also enjoy finding the perfect gift for someone; something that’s meaningful and is tailored for the recipient. I know I’m not the easiest person to shop for and that’s partly because I would rather get a unique gift for someone else. It’s just a great time of the year to be selfless and show others that you care.
Kevin Flint
CFP®
As another busy week approaches, my family has a cherished tradition this time of year: our Sunday night “Christmas Light Tour.” We pile into the car, with the kids and my wife cozy under blankets in the back seat, and drive around town to admire the festive displays. It’s a tradition we started when our oldest daughter was just three years old, and it remains a perfect way for us to soak in the magic of the holiday season together.
Let’s Decode The Headlines
Check out Hess Financial’s Recent Blogs
Our goal is to decode the stories you see on the news into simple and straightforward concepts that are easy to digest. Let us know what you think!
What’s in an Estate Plan? A Will, Power of Attorney & More.
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Navigating Financial Planning in your 40s & 50s.
Stephan Hess, CFP®, discusses common budget challenges people face in their midlife.
Financial Questions to Ask Before Making a Real Estate Purchase.
Robyn Hill, CFP®, shares tips and questions to ask before making a real estate purchase.
November 2024 Market Update
