Thanksgiving Reflections 2023
Sitting down with clients recently, the first thing out of their mouths was, “Where has this year gone?” Doesn’t every year end with some sense of “time flies”? 2023 has been a year of anniversaries and milestones. As I reflect on what I’m thankful for, I wanted to share some of them with you.
This past May my oldest son graduated high school. It’s the first of many graduations, I expect, and I was reminded how quickly the time passed. I am thankful for all those hours spent playing together, watching movies, watching him play soccer, basketball, football, and running track. Tucking him into bed at night and catching him hours later reading a book. Riding a bike for the first time, driving alone for the first time, taking his first job and many other firsts after that are all great memories that I’m thankful for. While there was a real sadness the first night he spent out of the house, I’m overcome with gratitude for the 18 years in our home together. Thank you, Malcolm!
In 2003, on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, my life changed forever when Kandice and I were married. This year marks 20 years of marriage. With all the ups and downs that come from any marriage, I could not be more thankful for my wife and her love, support, and encouragement. Thus far we’ve lived in two apartments and two houses, welcomed 7 children into our family and said goodbye to one. With lots of adventures in between, I’m thankful for each day and look forward to however many we have left, Kandice!
In 2013, Ed Copeland and I met to explore working together. We sat at a corner table in Olive Garden for our first meeting. I was relatively happy where I was at the time but knew I should hear him out on what he had to say. Looking back now after 10 years at Raymond James, it is one of the best decisions of my career. Working with clients is a source of real joy, and I love serving them. I’m thankful for the team of people over these 10 years who have worked alongside me in serving clients. Good people make all the difference, and I’ve been surrounded by them while at Raymond James. Thank you, Ed!
Another milestone this year was bringing a second, full-time member onto the team. Macinsie Bennett joined us mid-year and has already proven to be a great addition to us. Speaking of the team, you may not know that Hannah is expecting her second child in the spring of 2024. I’m thankful for her contribution over the last 2 years and can’t wait to see the new Donnell!
While you wouldn’t typically think of surgeries as milestones to be celebrated, my wife’s new hip has given us another reason to be thankful this year. She is not your “typical” candidate for a hip replacement at her age, but when you need a new hip, you need a new hip. I’m thankful for all the innovation that takes place in our medical community. The ability to replace joints is just one example of the ways we are able to bring comfort to the hurting and healing to sickness. We have much to be thankful for to all those that provide medical care. Thank you!
Spending holidays like Thanksgiving with family and friends reminds us of all the people who have poured goodness into our lives. As I get older, I see more clearly the ways that my parents, grandparents, siblings, aunts and uncles, teachers, coaches, professors, ministers, and long-time friends have made my life richer and sweeter. I’m forever thankful and hope that I’m doing the same thing to the next generations.
One more thing, for years I wondered, planned, and panicked at times over what I’d do with my life. What kind of work would allow me to use my gifts, be a help to others, and honor God? After 10 years at Raymond James and 17 years in financial planning, I’m thankful that thus far I’m able to do all those things I worried over. “Numbers and people” were the two things I liked most. Thank you for allowing me to help with the numbers and enjoy people at the same time.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Any opinions are those of Landon Vick and not necessarily those of RJFS or Raymond James. The foregoing information has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but we do not guarantee that it is accurate or complete; it is not a statement of all available data necessary for making an investment decision and it does not constitute a recommendation. Raymond James and its advisors do not offer tax or legal advice. You should discuss any tax or legal matters with the appropriate professional. Be sure to contact a qualified professional regarding your particular situation before making any investment or withdrawal decisions.
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