Thanksgiving Reflections: Finding Financial Peace, Presence, and Genuine Joy in the Season

Thanksgiving marks a pause for many of us in the whirlwind of daily life. I love it for that.  For a few days, we gather with family and friends, enjoying good food, laughter, and conversation. Yet, the season can be bittersweet—a time of reflection and celebration that’s often overshadowed by the stress of holiday expenses and the pressures of hosting or attending gatherings or other family dynamics that are just hard to put a finger on. As we enter this Thanksgiving season, maybe we consider a different approach: focusing on financial stability, being fully present with our loved ones, and finding genuine enjoyment rather than just getting through it.  Yeah, I know, you’ve heard this before, but hear me out.

Cultivating Financial Stability…it’s not about the money

Financial stability isn’t about extravagance; it’s about having peace of mind and the freedom to make choices aligned with our values. For many, holidays add a financial strain, but it doesn’t have to.  Trust me, this is the part of the article where I’m talking to myself, so feel free to listen in.

Financial stability begins in the mind. It’s about adopting a mindset that values contentment over accumulation, embracing a sense of “enough” rather than striving for more. This mindset allows us to approach the holidays with gratitude for what we have rather than stressing about what we lack. Thanksgiving invites us to step back and see our resources—time, energy, and money—as tools to be used intentionally, not indicators of success or happiness. When we feel secure in what we have, we’re less tempted by the holiday urge to overspend or overextend.

The Power of (Being) the Present

With today’s technology, it’s easy to be physically present with family while mentally absent—our thoughts divided between notifications, emails, and to-do lists. I truly believe that there is no such thing as multi-tasking…our brains are hardwired in this way.  So, if you’re staring at your phone, you’re not present with those around you.  One of the most profound gifts we can give during Thanksgiving is the full presence of our attention. Choosing to leave phones in another room, engage in conversation, and listen to each family member’s story without distraction can transform our gatherings. These moments don’t require perfection in family dynamics; they only need our open ears and a willingness to embrace others as they are. 

Being fully present also applies to ourselves. Instead of rushing to fit every seasonal obligation, we can consciously slow down, taking time to recharge. Whether it’s a quiet morning walk, reading a book, or simply breathing deeply before a meal, these moments allow us to enjoy Thanksgiving with gratitude and grace rather than as an item on a checklist.

Enjoying, Not Enduring, the Season

Many people experience the holidays as something to endure rather than enjoy—a time of fulfilling social expectations or family obligations. However, true enjoyment comes from engaging with the season in a way that’s meaningful to us personally. For some, this might mean traditional festivities; for others, it might look like an intimate gathering or even a quiet Thanksgiving hike. The key is to spend the day in a way that brings joy and connection, free from imposed expectations.

Setting boundaries on how we celebrate doesn’t diminish the holiday’s value—it enhances it. When we choose celebrations that align with who we are, we foster genuine gratitude. If that means opting for a small dinner, skipping crowded stores, or using Thanksgiving to volunteer instead, so be it. Our traditions should reflect what brings us joy, not what we feel pressured to maintain.

Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on abundance—of love, health, relationships, and even the lessons learned through challenges. I want us all to pursue our Great Life right now, and this holiday season is a great opportunity to pursue it with the people that we care most about.  This season, let’s make it less about stretching our resources thin and more about stretching our capacity for gratitude. Embrace simplicity, give the gift of presence, and choose joy over obligation. In doing so, Thanksgiving becomes more than a holiday; it becomes a practice in contentment, reminding us that true wealth is measured by the richness of our experiences and the depth of our connections. 

Thanks for listening without judgment to my inner dialogue.

 

How to Plan a Big Family Trip Without Becoming the Griswold’s

Research shows that spending money on experiences often brings more lasting joy than buying more “stuff.” Now imagine the joy and connection that comes from planning a big family vacation—one that creates memories for generations to come. I believe Clark Griswold knew the value of such trips, but he clearly had trouble pulling it off.  While getting everyone aligned may feel challenging, it’s also what makes the journey worthwhile. Let’s go over some key steps to ensure your family adventure is one for the books.

Open the Dialogue Early

Nobody enjoys being dragged along on someone else’s vacation. The key to a successful family trip is making sure everyone feels included from the start. Whether some family members are retired with flexible schedules or others are balancing school, work, and activities, it’s important to consider everyone’s situation.

Start by agreeing who is the ‘champion’ of the planning overall.  Someone must be responsible for organizing the communicating the plans.  Then start gathering input from everyone—use a group video chat, shared document, or a family meeting to talk through options. This gives everyone a chance to voice what works for them and helps you find common ground. Collaboration early on can make all the difference in pulling off a trip everyone enjoys.  Obviously this will look different if you are traveling with younger kids, but you know that they have opinions too!

Balance Togetherness and Individual Time

When planning a vacation for a large group, it’s crucial to strike the right balance between shared experiences and personal space. Not everyone will want to do the same activities, and that’s okay. Whether it’s golfers heading out for a round while others enjoy a spa day or different groups exploring different sights, the key is flexibility.

Plan a few moments for everyone to be together—like beach time or family dinners—but also allow space for each person to pursue what excites them. This balance will help everyone enjoy the trip in their own way without feeling overwhelmed or restricted.

Be Clear About the Budget

Few things create tension faster than money talk, especially in a family setting. If each family is paying their way, aim to pick a destination that fits most people’s budgets. If one person is paying for it all (ie, mom and dad), be totally clear about that from the beginning.  This ensures everyone can enjoy the trip without feeling financially strained.  Or worse, living in the uncertainty of ‘who is paying for what’?

If you are generously covering the cost, having a clear budget in place is even more important. Setting limits upfront helps ensure you don’t overstretch yourself financially, allowing you to fully enjoy this special experience with your loved ones.

Thinking ahead about your travel budget and ensuring that this family vacation fits within your broader financial goals will allow you to focus on making memories instead of managing costs.  This is what it is all about!

 

How to Live Like a Local…in Paris

How to Live Like a Local in Paris, France: A Financial Planner’s Guide to Adventure

Paris, the City of Light, is known for its world-class art, cuisine, and culture. But to truly experience the magic of Paris, you need to live like a local. Not only does this provide a more authentic experience, but it can also be more financially sustainable, which is a priority for our financial planning clients. Here’s a guide to living like a local in Paris with a touch of adventure, while keeping your budget in check.

Navigate Paris Like a Parisian

One of the best ways to explore Paris is on foot or by using public transportation. Parisians often walk or bike around the city, especially in pedestrian-friendly areas like Le Marais or the Latin Quarter. Renting a Vélib’ bike is a great option for getting around efficiently and affordably. For longer journeys, the Paris Metro is fast, cheap, and easy to navigate. A weekly or monthly Navigo pass can save you money compared to purchasing individual tickets.

Explore the Neighborhoods Beyond the Tourist Spots

While the Eiffel Tower and Louvre are iconic, living like a local means venturing into Paris’s unique neighborhoods. Montmartre offers cobblestone streets, art galleries, and an authentic bohemian atmosphere. Definitely visit the Sacré-Cœur Basilica at the top of Montmarte and take the short tram from the front steps down to a delicious streetside crepe.  My family loved this excursion!  Le Marais, with its narrow medieval streets, is home to fashionable boutiques, quaint cafés, and hidden courtyards. Canal Saint-Martin is a favorite among Parisians for picnics and strolls along the water.

For a true local experience, spend time in lesser-known districts like Belleville, known for its vibrant street art and multicultural food scene, or the 11th arrondissement, where you’ll find affordable restaurants and a relaxed, authentic vibe.

Shop at Local Markets

One of the most enjoyable ways to live like a Parisian is by shopping at local markets. Rue Mouffetard, in the Latin Quarter, is a historic market street with fresh produce, cheeses, and bread. Marché d’Aligre in the 12th arrondissement is a bustling market where you can find everything from gourmet foods to second-hand treasures.

Shopping at markets not only supports local businesses but also offers a budget-friendly way to enjoy the best of French cuisine. Grab some fresh baguettes, cheese, and a bottle of wine for a perfect Parisian picnic in one of the city’s many parks.  The amount of Fromageries in Paris will make a cheese lover’s heart melt!

Enjoy the Green Spaces

Paris is home to beautiful parks and gardens where locals spend their weekends relaxing. The Jardin du Luxembourg is a favorite for its tranquil atmosphere and stunning landscapes. For something off the beaten path, visit Parc des Buttes-Chaumont in the 19th arrondissement, one of Paris’s largest parks, complete with waterfalls, cliffs, and stunning views of the city. Parc Monceau in the 8th arrondissement is another gem, offering a peaceful retreat surrounded by elegant townhouses.

Eat Like a Parisian

Dining in Paris can be pricey, but there are ways to eat like a local without overspending. Skip the tourist traps and head to neighborhood bistros and brasseries where locals dine. For an authentic Parisian experience, visit a fromagerie (cheese shop) and boulangerie (bakery) to assemble your own meal. Enjoy a simple, yet delicious picnic by the Seine or in one of Paris’s parks.

For those looking to experience Paris’s diverse culinary scene, explore the affordable eateries in neighborhoods like Belleville or the 10th arrondissement, where you’ll find cuisines from around the world. Don’t forget to visit the pâtisseries (pastry shops) to treat yourself to a croissant or pain au chocolat.

Take Advantage of Free Cultural Attractions

Many of Paris’s most famous museums offer free entry on the first Sunday of every month, including the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay (one of my favs). Additionally, some of the city’s most beautiful landmarks, like Notre-Dame and Sacré-Cœur, are free to visit. Wander the streets of the historic neighborhoods like Le Marais and the Latin Quarter, soaking in the city’s architecture and charm without spending a euro.

Another way to experience local culture is by attending free events. From outdoor film screenings in the summer to seasonal festivals, Paris offers numerous opportunities for entertainment that won’t strain your budget.

Live Like a Local, Plan Like a Pro

Living like a local in Paris means embracing the city’s slower pace, savoring simple pleasures, and avoiding the touristy spots in favor of authentic experiences. As financial planners, we understand that your travel adventures shouldn’t come at the expense of your financial well-being. By making smart choices, from using public transportation to shopping at local markets, you can enjoy the best of Paris without breaking the bank.

Financial Tips for Adventurous Paris Travelers
  • Set a Daily Budget: Paris can be expensive if you’re not mindful of your spending. Set a daily budget for meals, transportation, and activities to stay on track.
  • Accommodation: Consider staying in short-term rentals or chambres d’hôtes (bed and breakfasts) instead of pricey hotels. This also gives you the chance to live in authentic Parisian neighborhoods.
  • Local Banking Options: If staying for a longer period, consider opening a local bank account to avoid foreign transaction fees.
  • Use Public Transport: The Navigo pass is cost-effective for public transport, and Vélib’ bikes are an affordable, fun way to explore the city.

By following these tips, you can experience Paris like a local and make your trip both memorable and financially smart. Paris is a city for dreamers and adventurers alike, and with the right approach, you can explore its wonders without overspending.

Episode 29: Reconnecting the World, One Letter at a Time with Jonny Beardmore, the Galapagos Postman


Welcome back to the On Adventure Podcast! In this episode, I chat with Jonny Beardmore, now famously known as the Galapagos Postman. Jonny’s unique quest involves delivering handwritten letters left in an ancient Galapagos Islands postbox to various locations worldwide. But this adventure is more than just about delivering mail; it’s about exploring a deeper question about whether we are disconnected as a species and how we can rebuild those crucial human connections.

Throughout his journey, Jonny has met a diverse array of people, each with their own fascinating stories. From reuniting a couple in Belize through a heartfelt love letter to delivering a touching note from a daughter to her mother in Mexico City, Jonny’s mission has brought surprises,  unexpected joy and reconnections (to him and the receipients). He shares stories of spontaneous hospitality, like the family in Mexico City who welcomed him with tequila and dried crickets, and the emotional reunions that have occurred as a result of his deliveries. Join me as Jonny shares his serendipitous encounters, the challenges he faces, and the incredible impact his journey is having on people’s lives and the charities he is fundraising for.

Episode Highlights:

  • [00:00] Introduction: Josh introduces Jonny Beardmore, explaining how he discovered Jonny’s story and what intrigued him about it.
  • [02:20] The Galapagos Postman: Jonny explains his nickname and details the tradition of the Galapagos Islands postbox that dates back to 1793.
  • [05:17] The Challenge: Jonny talks about the inception of the Galapagos Postman Challenge, collecting 50 letters from the Galapagos and his year-long journey to deliver them.
  • [07:45] Personal Motivation: Jonny discusses his personal motivations, including the impact of his father’s battle with motor neurone disease (ALS).
  • [15:05] Planning and Logistics: The process of planning this ambitious global adventure, including the support systems in place and the challenges faced.
  • [24:03] Human Connections: Jonny reflects on the commonalities he has found among diverse cultures and the importance of personal connections in an increasingly digital world.
  • [38:00] Inspiring Stories: Jonny shares some of the most touching and inspiring stories of delivering letters, including reuniting people and the emotional impacts.
    • Belize: Reuniting a couple through a heartfelt love letter.
    • Mexico City: Delivering a daughter’s letter to her mother, recovering from surgery, resulting in an emotional family reunion.
    • Central America: Overcoming challenges to deliver letters, experiencing spontaneous hospitality, and hearing incredible life stories.
  • [47:50] Funding and Support: Insight into how Jonny funds his adventures and the work-life balance required to manage such an undertaking.
  • [55:00] The Bigger Picture: Jonny’s thoughts on whether the world is truly disconnected despite technological advancements and how this challenge has impacted his views.

Links & Resources:

Thank you for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, follow, share, and review the podcast. Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories to light. For more content, visit Ridgeline Wealth Advisors and sign up for our newsletter, The Money Trail Guide. Until next time, pursue your own great adventure!

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How to Live Like a Local…in London

London, England is a city brimming with history, culture, and adventure. For those planning to make the most of their time in any vibrant metropolis, it’s essential to live like a local. This approach not only provides a richer experience but can also be more cost-effective, a key consideration for any Everyday Explorer traveling to a new place. Here’s a guide to help you navigate London with a spirit of adventure and a savvy financial mindset.

Embrace Public Transportation

London’s public transportation system is extensive and efficient. Locals rely heavily on the Tube (London Underground), buses, and trains to get around. Purchase an Oyster card or use contactless payment for seamless travel across the city. Not only will this save you money compared to taxis or ride-sharing services, but it also immerses you in the daily rhythm of London life.  If you’d rather get from point to point a little more quickly, using the famous Black Cabs will do it for you.  You can definitely spend a small fortune getting around the city, but it’s fast and pretty fun if you get a good driver.

Discover Hidden Gems

While iconic landmarks like the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace are must-sees, living like a local means seeking out hidden gems. Explore neighborhoods like Shoreditch, known for its street art and eclectic vibe, or Hampstead Heath, a vast green space offering panoramic views of the city. For a unique experience, visit the Leighton House Museum in Kensington, an opulent Victorian home filled with art and history.  As soccer fans (sorry, futbol), we had to visit a stadium and so we picked Stamford Bridge to see the home of Chelsea Futbol Club.  We are now big fans!

Shop at Local Markets

Londoners love their markets, and these bustling hubs are perfect for immersing yourself in local culture. Borough Market, near London Bridge, offers a feast of fresh produce, artisanal foods, and culinary delights. For vintage finds and quirky treasures, head to Portobello Road Market in Notting Hill. Covent Market was one we visited and loved the shops, food and live music…an amazing vibe.  Shopping at markets not only supports local vendors but also provides a more authentic and budget-friendly shopping experience.  And for some extra flare, visit in December so you can experience the amazing Christmas markets.

Enjoy the Outdoors

Despite its urban nature, London boasts an array of parks and outdoor spaces. Hyde Park, Regent’s Park, and Richmond Park are just a few of the green havens where locals unwind. Rent a bike through Santander Cycles and explore these parks on two wheels. For a more adventurous outing, take a walk along the Thames Path or venture to the outskirts of the city for a hike in the Epping Forest.

Eat Like a Londoner

Dining out in London can be expensive, but locals know where to find great food without breaking the bank. Visit neighborhood pubs for traditional British fare like fish and chips or a hearty Sunday roast. Discover the city’s diverse culinary scene by exploring food halls such as Mercato Metropolitano in Elephant and Castle or Boxpark in Shoreditch, where you can sample dishes from around the world.  We found ourselves in a pub (especially for the World Cup final which was absolutely electric!) almost every day in the city, but the fav…and evening dinner at the Sky Garden overlooking the entire London Skyline.  Make your reservation well in advance. 

Take Advantage of Free Attractions

London is home to numerous world-class museums and galleries, many of which offer free entry. Spend an afternoon at the British Museum, the National Gallery, or the Tate Modern.   For an even more immersive experience, hire a guide to take you through for a few hours.  It will change the entire experience!  Wander through the charming streets of Covent Garden (again, great at Christmas time) or take in the lively atmosphere of Southbank, all without spending a penny. These free attractions provide cultural enrichment and entertainment, making them perfect for the budget-conscious traveler.

Live Like a Local, Plan Like a Pro

Living like a local in London involves more than just seeing the sights—it’s about immersing yourself in the city’s culture and lifestyle. As financial planners, we understand the importance of balancing adventure with financial prudence. By embracing local habits, seeking out hidden gems, and making the most of free attractions, you can enjoy an enriching and cost-effective stay in London.

Financial Tips for the Adventurous Traveler
  • Budget Wisely: Allocate funds for daily expenses and stick to your budget. Use apps to track spending and find deals.  Check in on your progress each day.
  • Local Banking: Consider opening a local bank account if staying for an extended period. This can save on foreign transaction fees.  I haven’t done this personally so do your research.
  • Public Transport: Utilize weekly or monthly travel cards for the best rates on public transportation.
  • Cultural Memberships: Some museums and attractions offer memberships that provide free or discounted entry.

By following these tips, you can experience the best of London. Living like a local not only enriches your travel experience but also ensures you make the most of your adventures in this incredible city.

From Istanbul to Ireland with Rick Steeves


I can’t say that I have spent enough time in a bike saddle to consider the merits of cycle touring.  In fact, until I met my next guest, I really didn’t understand cycle touring at all.  Rick Steeves has it down to a science, though.  What started as a time-filler during a gap year in college eventually turned in to a life long pursuit of adventure on two wheels.

Rick is a veteran of cycle touring, cycling through 35 countries on almost 18 different trips since 1989.  In fact, he retired from his IT job in 2015 to put wheels down on a 6000km journey from Istanbul to Ireland (and yes, there is a ferry involved).  We discuss many details of this epic trip, but also spend a lot of time talking about the dozens of other trips he has done around the world, mostly in Europe but also the US and New Zealand.  But he keeps being pulled back to Europe to fill in the gaps on his trekking map. 

Rick is a wealth of knowledge and experience, and gives freely of what he knows.  You can find him, his blog and his book at his website irelandbybicycle.com.  His website has a ton of information about how you can see the world from a different vantage point. Check it out!

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