Brybeck Financial - March/April 2022

F INANCIAL F O R U M

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Celebrating Your Milestones With an Important Reminder ROLLING WITH LIFE’S CHANGES

Just this past October, Becky and I celebrated our 40th wedding anniversary in Newport, Rhode Island. There were many things to do, and the sights were beauitful. I recommend visiting if you ever get the chance. It’s hard to believe it has already been 40 years. Together, we have experienced the start and growth of a business, raised two children, enjoyed the companionship of a few dogs, and are now experiencing the joys of grandparenthood. The past 40 years feel like a blink, but they are a culmination of hard work and partnership. And we’re still evolving! I know Becky and I have many other milestones and changes to look forward to in the next years of our life, and while every moment won’t be easy, I’m grateful for what I do have. Many of you may be experiencing changes and significant events of your own. In fact, I know you have! I have always enjoyed witnessing the milestones my clients complete, and the past two years have been a whirlwind. I believe many of us have taken a critical look at our lives in the past two years, inspired by or in spite of — however you choose to view it — the pandemic. Some of you retired recently. I cannot wait to see what you do in this brave, new chapter of your life. Others are picking up their roots and settling in new communities, like Florida or Alabama. Whether you moved to be closer to family or to experience a new community, I wish you the best on this new adventure. Then there are those of you who have chosen to change your home with the goal of downsizing or upgrading a home for your hobbies and needs. For instance, I have one client who added a large garden to the side of his home, and I work with a couple who decided a 55-plus community better fits their needs. Changes like these can be intimidating, but it can also be beneficial for your lifestyle and your family’s peace of mind. I’m sure you will make many new, special memories in these new spaces, too. Lastly, I can understand the excitement some of you are experiencing with your grandchildren! There are those who are entering new phases of grandparenthood — like my client who has twin 3-year-old grandsons — and others who are experiencing that special moment of becoming a grandparent for the first time. Enjoy every moment. As you may remember with your own children, they grow up entirely too fast!

As common and sometimes thrilling as these changes are, they are never simple. There may be moments when your plans for retirement have to change, or your estate plan is out of date because of something unexpected. In those moments, it’s easy to get overwhelmed or forget what steps to take next. This month, as we turn the calendar to a new season, I would encourage you to look at the ways in which your life has “turned the page.” That is, examine how your life has changed in the past two years and consider

corresponding financial, long-term planning, or estate planning that need to follow suit. And if nothing has changed but you are considering a new path, don’t hesitate to call me. I’m happy to discuss the ways in which this new concept for your life can fit into your long-term plan or to refer you to an estate planning expert who can help as well. Remember, changes vary, but they do happen. I would know; after 40 years of marriage, it’s safe to say life has changed quite a bit! Your planning should reflect these to protect you and your family. Let’s get started. –Brian Irving

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HOW TO ENTERTAIN KIDS DESPITE FATIGUE Running Low on Fuel?

After working all day, it can be tough to keep up with your kids. Sometimes, it can even feel like working a second job. While you still need to be physically and emotionally present, there are ways to exert less energy and still play with kids of all different ages. If your baby is under 1 year old, they are too young to play by themselves, but you can still play while not physically overdoing it. Resting on the floor with your baby and showing them some sensory toys or reading to them is both entertaining and educational. Another great option for your infant is to blow bubbles for them — they will love watching the bubbles float and dance through the air.

If your toddler is on the go and walking, they may require a little more to stay adequately entertained. Try sitting on the floor and singing nursery rhymes. You can also let your child explore objects in the room while you build upon their language by explaining what different items are. Since you’re sleepy, why not pretend your toddler’s stuffed animal is sleepy too? Have your child “put teddy to bed.” If you’re lucky, you may be able to get in a few moments of shut-eye too! If your child is 2–4 years old, they might love using their imagination! Try having a picnic with them in the living room (you can even invite their stuffed animals to join!). Playing doctor is also a fun option and opportunity to be lazy and sleepy if you get to play the part of the sickly patient. You may also get out the building blocks and create with them — this requires little physical exertion and is a great developmentally appropriate activity.

If your child is 4 years or older, they are likely very active. What about hosting an indoor obstacle course where you get to be the timer? All you have to do is gather a few items from around the house and use furniture and pillows to build a course. Think of incorporating activities such as having them crawl under the dining room table, walk across a blanket bridge, or hop over the pillow rocks. If you’re feeling artsy and would prefer to make something with your child,

you can even just sit down at the table and break out some homemade play dough.

The most important thing is to get creative and never feel guilty for needing to scale back a bit after having a long day. With these interactive ideas and tips, you will make it through the tough days and still feel like the super-parent you are!

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It’s not a joke — your makeup brushes can actually make you sick! While the task of cleaning each one individually sounds like a colossal waste of time, you might rethink the tedious task after you find out about the many gross things that can happen if you don’t. Keep in mind that this article is only meant to inform you about what can potentially happen; it’s not meant to freak you out! Regular brush cleanings are worth considering for the following reasons. Your makeup application may suffer. When traces of foundation, contour, and powder get caked up and stuck to the bristles of your makeup brushes, you’re likely to make a mess of your face. On top of that, makeup brushes can become weak and even break from lingering makeup residue, even your eyelash curler! If mascara accumulates on it, it can end up breaking your lashes. DANGER IN THE MAKEUP CASE What Happens if You Don’t Clean Your Makeup Brushes Regularly?

Dirty brushes can harm your skin. When your skin is exposed to dirty brushes filled with bacteria, it can become stressed out and congested, leading to collagen loss and premature wrinkles. So, yes, dirty makeup brushes can literally age you! Acne and pimples love bacteria, too, especially when you use wet makeup products such as foundation and creams. Bacteria thrives on the moisture, possibly leading to breakouts. Not washing your brushes may lead to infections and viruses. Bacteria and viruses can enter your body through the pores on your skin, allowing them to infect your system. It can lead to herpes, the flu, pink eye, or even a Staphylococcus infection! Hurry, rush and clean those makeup brushes — twice! It’s important to keep in mind that spot cleaning your makeup brushes here and there does not replace deep-cleaning, which should be done at least once a week to keep them safe for your face!

TAKE A BREAK

EASY MARCH MADNESS CHILI Inspired by MyRecipes.com

Cheer on your favorite team and chow down in minutes with this easy chili recipe!

Ingredients

Directions

• 2 lbs ground beef • 2 tbsp chili powder • 1 tbsp Creole seasoning • 1 tsp ground cumin • 2 16-oz cans diced tomatoes • 2 16-oz cans small red beans • 2 8-oz cans tomato sauce

1. In a deep pot, brown beef, stirring often. 2. Once beef is cooked, add chili powder, Creole seasoning, and cumin, cooking for 1 minute. 3. Stir in diced tomatoes, beans, and tomato sauce and bring the mixture to a boil. 4. After the mixture boils, reduce the heat to low and let chili simmer for 15 minutes. 5. Serve with toppings of choice, like cheese, sour cream, or chives.

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8 CAMPUS DRIVE, STE 105 PARSIPPANY, NJ 07054 973.335.9444 WWW.BRYBECK.COM

Securities and advisory services offered through Triad Advisors, LLC Member FINRA / SIPC Brybeck Financial and Triad Advisors, LLC are not affiliated.

INSIDE

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Let’s Celebrate Life’s Changes With Proper Planning

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Interacting With Kids While Running on Empty

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Makeup Brushes Can Make You Sick?!

Easy March Madness Chili

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Get Healthy While Spring-Cleaning!

It’s More Than Just Tidying Up 4 Health Benefits of Spring-Cleaning

It prevents illnesses. Doorknobs, refrigerator handles, light switches, countertops, and remote controls are all things we touch many times a day. Cleaning anything that’s used often is one way to reduce the spread of germs. By keeping household surfaces clean, we help thwart the spread of viruses and illnesses. Spring-cleaning helps you breathe better. Spring often brings pollen that triggers allergies for many. But pollen isn’t the only thing to blame when people have difficulty breathing. When dust and pet dander build up in your home, your respiratory system is greatly affected too. Deep-cleaning your air filters and vents can make breathing effortless — and it’s truly amazing how this can improve your well-being. It keeps you more active. Off the couch and on your feet! Even just running the vacuum and clearing the clutter from the dining room table will get you up and moving, which is healthy for your heart and body.

Sunday, March 20, is the first day of spring — which means it’s time for some spring- cleaning. Did you know that cleaning is not just about tidying up a physical space?

It’s also about improving overall well-being. Here’s how organization and

cleanliness can help you in more ways than you might expect.

Spring-cleaning reduces stress and depression. Tidiness and mental health are actually connected. Studies have found that having a clean home is directly correlated to happiness and your ability to focus. Anxiety can spike when laundry is piling up, items are strewn everywhere, and papers get scattered on various surfaces within the home. Clearing the clutter is a great way to boost your mood and increase those feel-good hormones.

This spring season, putting some elbow grease into your cleaning will benefit you in more ways than one. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later!

We are dedicated to your financial success. 4 •

973.335.9444