2023: Get Out
It is no secret that we are living in some wild times. So much is happening all around us – but hasn’t it always? With the advent of instant news via social media, we have come to expect the most up – to – date information, but we are learning – accuracy is suffering. We see the Tik-Tok and the Instagram, et. al. postings, and are lead to believe all that we see. Various videos, memes and commentary, thrust at us all day, every day. I am not sure what to believe if I have not experienced it myself. Being a part of something real and rewarding is important for my family and myself. Our time spent doing things that are healthy and away from “spin”, conjecture and wild opinion add to the wholesome life experience. Creating memories. Not engaging in the chaos. That said…..
Last weekend Victoria and I took a ride on our side by side (ATV type vehicle) through the Ocala National Forest. It was such a beautiful day. We packed a lunch and enjoyed listening to the wind through the REALLY TALL pines. Vic discovered how large the pinecones are deep in the forest. Yep, she dragged a couple home. I am sure she will be putting her artistic talents at work to create something we will have in our home for a long time.
Recently we visited with friends who are training for the RAGBRAI. This is really something! It is an annual ride across Iowa, and they call it a “rolling festival of bicycles, music, food camaraderie and community.” I can only imagine the amount of fun, exercise and scenery on this 8-day trek. Best part would be no TV! I hope they share many pictures! While they are there, I will ride with Vic to Lake Washington and back…. That will do it for us! Along those lines and a bit more tame, is the Virginia Creeper Trail. We did this ride with some friends and highly recommend this in the fall! Just stunning! It is a 34.3 mile rail – to – recreation trail that goes through Abingdon, VA through Damascus and ends in the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area at the Virginia – North Carolina border.
Let me share some more ideas for “getting away” and getting fresh air:
- Depending on your local: Best Hot Air Balloon Festivals 2023
- One of my favorites – Barret Jackson, Palm Beach (This is fresh air for the gents!)
- For our travelers in and out of the country: Art Fairs 2023
- If you are a beach lover: Sand Sculpting Events 2023
- Who doesn’t love a great Farmer’s Market?? (Top 30)
I plan to get out and about as much as possible, and I hope you do too! Maybe some of the above links spark a fancy – or spark other ideas you may have. Whatever it is, go and enjoy life. We will do the heavy lifting.
Share your photos! We love to see all the places you visit and the smiles that those excursions create. If your friends or families are having a tough time with getting the answers to financial questions they need, share our website and phone number. Because of your referrals, we have grown, and we serve families across the US, and are celebrating my 25-year anniversary with Raymond James. Thank you for your trust and advocacy.
Steven T. Wilmarth, CEP®, WMS℠
Senior Vice President, Investments
Managing Director
Wealth Management Specialist℠
