www.flickr.com

Sunday, December 2, 2007

A New Career

As many of you know in mid-2007 I began a career as a financial advisor with Edward Jones. I have been in a extended training period for almost 4 months which finally ends tomorrow, December 3 as I move into my new office in Grand Rapids. Karen and I are excited about this new direction and the possibilities it brings. Thanks to those who have expressed encouragement and support. That encouragement has made all the difference during this time.

One thing our family has decided to do as our first priority is to begin planning for Joseph's education. We are starting what is called a 529 plan, which is like an "educational IRA". Basically the contributions are a deduction for those who participate & the funds are withdrawn for the beneficiary tax free.

We are posting this message as an option for friends and family who may want to contribute during the Holiday season, or anytime thereafter. If you are interested please call Karen or me if you wish to discuss this further.

We hope the holidays is a blessed time for all of you.

Brad & Karen
616.285.5427

That time of year

Hello All! Get ready, the month of December is upon us! Between work, family, and jockeying for position in checkout lines, the real meaning of the season is sometimes lost. So as we take a collective deep breath for the roller coaster drop into Christmas and New Year, I wanted to quickly send out a wire with a message of encouragement and hope, to fend off missing the best things about this month.
When I step back to think about the many people in my immediate and extended family and the hundred or so new family members I have after Karen I were married, I cannot believe all the wonderful stories. We have those who have gotten married this year and some who are planning weddings. We have those (too many to count) who have delivered healthy babies and those who are expecting. We know of many who are not 100% in health, others who have battled back from sickness. The bottom line is it's just amazing to sit back and think of the many who are in this "circle" and provide encouragement for us, through their stories. If overlooked however, these things--simple stories of other people lives--may cause us to miss something important. So, I wanted to let you know Karen and I are thinking of you today, wishing you all the best.

Happy Holidays,