Take a look at our June newsletter!
FINANCIAL SERVICES, LLC
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www.MattsonFinancial.com
June 2025
Order What You Want, Eat What You Get! Learning the Ropes as a Savvy Thai Traveler
One of the greatest joys Nancy and I share is traveling together whenever we get the chance. We’ve visited over 48 countries together, and every trip teaches us something new about other cultures, and often something about ourselves. I want to share a story from my first trip to Thailand, where I went to visit my nephew. Before the trip, I read a travel advisory for U.S. citizens and decided to hire a guide who also acted as a bodyguard for English-speaking tourists. When I landed in Bangkok, I was met by two women — one who spoke English and one who didn’t. Turns out, the one who didn’t speak English was actually my bodyguard. She carried a weapon for protection, which caught me by surprise. As we traveled, I noticed that everything I said was translated directly to the locals, from cab drivers to wait staff. But after a few days, an honest market vendor tipped me off: The guides were negotiating commissions behind the scenes. I was often paying 1.5 to 2 times the actual price for things. When I confronted my guide, she simply replied, “That’s the custom in Thailand.” I ended their services right there. For a day or two, they still followed me around, but by the fifth day, I was on my own. My nephew, who lives and works in Thailand, helped me get a better sense of the local culture. One eye-opening moment came when I realized the hotel brand I was staying in charged $180 a night on the “English side” but only $20 a night on the “Thai side.” The only difference? On the Thai side, no one spoke English. With some hand gestures and patience, I got by just fine. In fact, the locals found my attempts at communication endearing. I negotiated room rates, excursions, even scuba trips — all without speaking the language fluently. But the one area where things didn’t always go smoothly was at mealtime. Sometimes I ordered chicken and got pork. Other times, I wasn’t quite sure what protein I was being served. I learned that street food, while delicious, isn’t always prepared in ways our American stomachs can handle.
be reheated, it may not sit well with foreign digestive systems. I warned a friend about this on a later trip, but he forgot. He spent roughly 72 hours confined to his hotel room.
And then there was the spice. Thai chili oil is no joke. That same friend ignored warnings and added just two drops to his dish. He couldn’t speak for 20 minutes, and it took him a full day to recover! It was one of the most humorous situations I’ve ever witnessed — I felt bad for him, truly — but I couldn’t help laughing out loud. It’s not often you see a grown man brought to complete silence by something so small!
So, what’s the takeaway? As many of you enter your “go-go years,” full of travel and new experiences, I encourage you to be adventurous — but not reckless. Staying in local areas, trying local food, and learning to communicate in simple ways can make your travel richer and more affordable. But if a guide or vendor says, “This may not be right for you,” take their advice seriously. Ask questions and understand the risks before diving in. Travel is one of the best gifts retirement can offer. Don’t be afraid of it — just be thoughtful. Respect the local culture, greet people with warmth, and keep an open mind.
And always remember my travel motto: Order what you want, eat what you get.
Looking forward to sharing more stories and tips with you at our next First Friday event.
See you in the next country!
–Gary Mattson
Thai street chicken is one of my favorites, but it’s cooked once and stored in a glass case until someone orders it. Unless you request it to
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Watching your children grow into independent adults is one of life’s greatest joys — but just because your kids are grown doesn’t mean they won’t test your limits now and then. As they build their own lives, the relationship between parent and child shifts, and deciding where to draw the line can be challenging. If you’re an empty nester, it’s time to redefine and set healthy boundaries that protect your time, energy, and well-being. Whether it’s financial independence, personal space, or learning to say “no” without guilt, establishing clear expectations can strengthen your relationship with your grown kids while allowing you to enjoy this exciting new chapter. EMBRACE THEIR INDEPENDENCE Though they will always be your baby, the first step in setting new boundaries is acknowledging their independence and adulthood. Your children need to make their own decisions and mistakes and find their own belief system, no matter how much it may differ from yours. Set flexible boundaries that give them the space to problem-solve without HELP YOUR KIDS FLY, WHILE DRAWING THE L
Ready to shake or stir things up this summer? Grab your martini glasses because there’s nothing like a summertime soiree. Whether mixing it up with a tropical tiki night, pouring classy spritzers in the garden, or sipping something cool at a poolside bash, hosting a summer cocktail party is the perfect way to serve up flavor and fun. Get ready to be the host or hostess with the mostest with these delicious tips (and sips) to throw the ultimate party this summer! PERFECT PARTY FORMULA Do you want to keep things casual with familiar beers and classic finger foods, or do you want to see your friends in their best “Great Gatsby” attire sipping on a sidecar for a roaring ’20s-themed party? Plan your theme and the perfect menu of drinks, appetizers, and entrees to match. Next, pick out your summer guest squad and invite them at least a month in advance to give them ample notice. Ideally, you want to keep the guest list to about 15 people, mixing in long-time friends and new acquaintances to keep the conversations lively and the party manageable. MIX, MINGLE, MOVE AROUND Set up an inviting scene with cute cocktail glasses, festive decorations, and different seating options that encourage guests to mingle and have fun. Clear space for a makeshift dance floor, and provide snacks at every little grouping of comfy chairs to entice guests to nosh while they chat. Your Perfect Summer Soiree Formula Sip, Sip, Hooray!
Having an attractive and central bar area can set the party’s mood. You can go all out and hire someone to handle a full bar, create a drink station in the kitchen, or set up a DIY bar cart with recipes and all the ingredients for your friends to be their own bartenders. SHAKE UP CONVERSATIONS No celebration is complete without engaging conversation and entertainment. Help your guests get to know each other by putting out fun icebreaker questions on the tables or serving each drink with one. This will get people to open up, laugh, and make new friends (the ultimate party favor). You could also come up with some fun games that encourage a little goofiness, like charades, a board game, or your very own talent show.
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E YOU SET THE BOUNDARIES LINE WITH LOVE your interference. Though it may be your first instinct to provide them with advice or guidance, they may want space. Remember, you are forging a new relationship with them, becoming more of a mentor than a director. Resist the urge to immediately run to their aid because the more lessons they learn for themselves, the more self-confidence they will build. RECOGNIZE YOUR LIMITS Your life, needs, and routine also undergo significant changes as your child enters adulthood and leaves home. It’s time to identify your own desires, plans, and limits. Communicate clearly with your children about what you’re doing with your time, and learn to say “no” if their behavior or expectations overstep your boundaries. It could be as simple as saying you can’t cover their bills for them, but you’ll help them look for a new job or set up a savings account. Remain open to discussion and change, but stay consistent. Having more time for yourself is an emotional transition, too, so practice self-care. Taking care of yourself will model healthy behaviors for your children in their adult lives — and enable you to live the life you choose.
UPCOMING EVENTS
June Market Commentary June 6, 2025 Released via email
Every month, we feature insights from portfolio managers at Gradient Investments who dive into market trends and economic developments. We encourage you to take a few moments and stay informed when it comes to the ever changing financial landscape!
Holiday Office Closures June 19, 2025 Our office will be closed for Juneteenth. July 4, 2025 Our office will be closed for the Fourth of July. July Market Commentary July 11, 2025 Released via email
Shelby’s
Ingredients • 1 1/2 cups light brown sugar • 1 cup soy sauce • 1/2 cup pineapple juice (optional) • 1/2 cup water • 1/4 cup vegetable oil TERIYAKI BEEF SKEWERS
Every month, we feature insights from portfolio managers at Gradient Investments who dive into market trends and economic developments. We encourage you to take a few moments and stay informed when it comes to the ever changing financial landscape!
• 3 large garlic cloves, chopped • 4 lbs boneless round steak, cut into 1/4-inch-thick slices • Bamboo skewers soaked in water
August Educational Event Aug. 14, 2025, 4:30–6:30 p.m. New Location Kent District Library Kentwood Branch
4950 Breton Rd. SE Kentwood, MI 49508
Directions 1. In a large bowl, whisk brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, water, vegetable oil, and garlic together. Drop beef slices into the mixture and stir to coat. 2. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and marinate in the refrigerator for 24 hours. 3. Remove beef from marinade, shaking to remove excess liquid. 4. Thread beef slices on skewers in a zig-zag pattern. 5. Preheat grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grate. 6. Cook beef skewers for about 3 minutes per side until the meat is cooked through.
More details coming soon!
Our advising team will be hosting seminars all month long! Scan the QR code to view those dates and locations. Not on our email list? Contact us at info@mattsonfinancial.com !
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FINANCIAL SERVICES, LLC
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INSIDE THIS ISSUE
1
Lessons Learned About Traveling Smart in Thailand
2
Know When to Say ‘No’
Pop the Bubbly, It’s Party Time!
3
Teriyaki Beef Skewers
Upcoming Events
4
Safe Destinations for Women Traveling Solo
Investment advisory services offered through Mattson Financial Services, LLC, an SEC-Registered Investment Advisor. Insurance and annuities offered through Lakeview Financial Group, LLC. Mattson Financial Services, LLC and Lakeview Financial Group, LLC are affiliated companies. Reminder: If you have any changes to your financial situation, please notify us as soon as possible. For distribution requests, please provide at least one week’s notice to allow time for placing trades and raising cash.
4 Top Destinations for Women Travelers GOING SOLO SAFELY
unique blend of multicultural influences and indigenous traditions.
700-foot-tall wall that dates back an estimated 300 million years. All across Ireland, historic cathedrals, castles, and museums tell the story of the suffering of the Irish people. JAPAN This Asian nation has a rich blend of cultural traditions and modern comforts. A trip up the Tokyo Tower, a landmark inspired by the Eiffel Tower, offers a view of the surrounding temples and museums from its top deck 250 meters above the city. The five crater lakes near Mount Fuji offer water sports, hiking, and beautiful views. Visit Kyushu Island resorts to enjoy bubbling hot springs and markets of handcrafted bamboo goods. Regardless of which of these welcoming destinations you choose, you are sure to return with wonderful memories and plenty of stories to share.
ICELAND Often described as “the land of ice and fire,” Iceland is home to some of the world’s largest volcanos, glaciers, and hot springs. Visit Reykjavik to enjoy museums, galleries, and souvenir shops. To soak in Iceland’s legendary thermal hot springs, check out the mineral spa at the Blue Lagoon. And if you love a good hike, enjoy some of Iceland’s world-class treks across breathtaking volcanic landscapes. IRELAND Unmatched in its rolling green landscapes and cultural richness, Ireland is a favorite destination for travelers. According to travel expert Rick Steves, the capital city of Dublin “punches above its weight” in the arts, entertainment, food, and fun. Don’t miss the Cliffs of Moher, a 5-mile-long,
If you’re yearning for a travel adventure and are flying solo this season, don’t hesitate! Many enticing destinations welcome visitors traveling alone and are safe for women. Here are four destinations recognized for low crime rates, welcoming attitudes, and cultural respect for women.
CANADA Few nations can rival the diversity of
attractions offered by this northern beauty. Check out Montreal’s dazzling architecture and museums and the historic chateaux of French-speaking Quebec City. Then, head west to experience the rustic spas and ski resorts of Banff and British Columbia, savoring Canada’s
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