Take a look at our July newsletter!
FINANCIAL SERVICES, LLC
616-514-3831
www.MattsonFinancial.com
July 2025
Like many Northerners, when my wife and I first started visiting Florida, we quickly fell in love with “shelling.” We strolled the beaches after the tides to see what treasures the ocean left behind. Over the years, I’ve gathered quite a collection — colorful shells, tiny sand dollars, and ocean relics. My original plan was to turn them into functional artwork and sell them at local venues back in Michigan. Well, as often happens, life got busy, and those shells are still sitting in bins waiting for their second life. Recently, my wife reminded me that it’s time to either start creating or start selling! Beach Cleanup: Cigarette Butts, Sucker Sticks, and Straws A Mindful Legacy
Now, before you think I’m trying to paint myself as some eco-hero, let me confess: I haven’t always been so mindful. Growing up, litter and recycling were never topics we talked about at home. Even when recycling bins started showing up everywhere, it felt like an inconvenience more than a necessity. It wasn’t until about six years ago, when our granddaughter visited, that my perspective began to change. She asked my wife why she was sorting our trash. My wife explained that recycling helps reduce waste and that plastics can take generations to break down. Our granddaughter took that lesson to heart, so much so that she gave a class presentation on recycling and earned an A for it! Even then, I wasn’t fully committed. It took time, experience, and watching my grandkids embrace the idea before I fully came around. Now, I’m a converted believer. Today, it’s a different story. We walk the beaches not just for shells, but to pick up whatever trash we find. And do you know what’s remarkable? Over time, we see less and less litter, and sometimes even spot other beachgoers following our example. It’s contagious in the best way. On our last trip, we brought our youngest grandkids along. They were just as excited to find shells as they were to find and remove trash. That sparked some fun conversations:
As my shell collection grew, I realized I didn’t need many more. So, we started a new kind of beachcombing: picking up trash. Many Florida beaches now offer blue handheld crates at their entrances,
encouraging visitors to take one along the
shoreline to collect litter. At first, this seemed like a small effort, but it quickly became an adventure. If you can name it, we’ve probably found it washed up or left behind. The most common items? Cigarette butts, sucker sticks, and used straws.
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In a world where you can have anything delivered in a day, it’s easy to forget that less can be more. But our grandparents and great-grandparents knew the art of stretching a dollar. These timeless frugal habits aren’t just budget-friendly; they’re resourceful and surprisingly satisfying. Ready to channel your inner penny-pincher? Let’s bring these throwback habits back to life. MEND IT, DON’T END IT. Once upon a time, people didn’t just toss a sock with a hole. Instead, you sewed it right back up! No need to rush to the store — just a few basic mending skills can save you from countless unnecessary purchases. It’s also more empowering to fix something with your own hands than tossing it — not to mention much more eco-friendly. MASTER THE MAGIC OF HOMEMADE MEALS. Fast food might be convenient, but cooking from scratch is where the real savings (and flavor) happen. Think soups from veggie scraps and hearty meals made from simple pantry staples. Not only does it cut costs, but it puts you in control of your ingredients and nutrition — a win-win.
RETRO HABITS MAKE MODERN LIFE (AND PRICES) EASIER
STAYING CLOSE TO FARAWAY GRANDKIDS Bridging the Miles
Many parents look forward to spending their preretirement and golden years with grandchildren, cuddling on the couch, mixing cookie dough, or planting seeds in a garden. Yet that comfy dream eludes half of today’s grandparents because their grandchildren live more than 200 miles away. According to a 2023 AARP survey, distance is currently the biggest obstacle to grandparents spending as much time as they want with grandchildren. A growing number of grandparents are closing that gap by using FaceTime, Google Hangouts, or other video-chat apps for virtual get-togethers with grandkids. The rewards of mastering those apps are worth the effort. Here are two strategies for making the most of virtual family visits. LET KIDS LEAD Children often revel in a grandparent’s undivided attention and delight in hosting a room tour or a show-and-tell session with their latest project or toy. A grandchild might enjoy showing you how they play with a train set or blocks. Others might like modeling their latest superhero costume or showing you how they make slime.
Many games and conversations you would have when you are physically together can also work virtually, such as delivering a joke, riddle, magic trick, song, or poem. Take turns making up stories or holding two-way conversations with hand puppets. Kids also love scavenger hunts, guessing games, or playing I Spy. MIND THEIR MOODS When you call, your grandchildren may feel tired, excited, silly, or sad. Don’t take it personally if your grandchild checks in briefly, then breezes away to do something else. Children live in the moment. Some days, they may be eager to engage in a lively conversation, while on others, they want to roam free. They may also want to “hang out” with you without talking. Many grandparents learn to just “be in the room” as a presence on the screen. Some grandparents keep the same toys, puzzles, or craft materials on hand that their grandchildren enjoy. Then, you can either invite your grandchild to teach you how to use the items or just play alongside them.
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Upcoming Events
REINVENT YOUR LEFTOVERS. Gone are the days of letting food wilt in the fridge. Old-school frugal folks gave every last bite a second act. Roast chicken becomes broth. Rice gets turned into stir-fry. Stale bread transforms into French toast or bread pudding. Get creative! You’ll waste less and eat better. CHOOSE CASH OVER CARD. There’s something about handing over $20 cash that makes you think twice before spending it. Cash budgeting may feel outdated, but it’s one of the simplest ways to curb impulse buys. Envelopes marked for groceries, gas, or coffee dates give you a clear snapshot of your spending — and what’s left. No more senseless swiping! SAVE WITH SECONDHAND SAVVY. Hand-me-downs were once a household norm! Today, thrift stores and vintage finds are trending again, and for good reason. Whether it’s clothing, furniture, or kitchenware, buying secondhand is kinder to your wallet and the planet.
Holiday Office Closures July 4, 2025 Our office will be closed for the Fourth of July. July Market Commentary July 11, 2025 Released via email
So, channel some old-school genius and start living a frugal, intentional lifestyle!
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!
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August Educational Event Aug. 14, 2025, 4:30–6:30 p.m. New Location Kent District Library Kentwood Branch
“Grandma, where did this plastic spoon come from? Did it float in from the ocean, or did someone just leave it here?”
We talked about how trash can harm people and wildlife, and how a few minutes of effort can make a big difference. At a young age, our grandkids are becoming shellers and stewards of the environment. Spending time with them, teaching them these small but important lessons, reminds me of something I’ve come to believe: Your children and grandchildren are always watching and listening. They may not always show it — especially during their teenage years — but they notice how we live, what we say, and what we value.
4950 Breton Rd. SE Kentwood, MI 49508
Join us for an informative and engaging evening designed to help you stay informed and confident about your financial future! This free event will feature expert speakers and valuable insights for those approaching or already in retirement. You’ll learn how Senior Neighbors of Grand Rapids supports aging with dignity by helping older adults stay independent, active, and connected. We also provide a clear, easy-to-understand overview of Medicare and your options. And our Live Market Update will help you stay current with the latest economic and market trends that may impact your retirement planning.
One day, you might catch yourself smiling as you hear your kids passing along the same words and lessons you once shared with them.
Legacy isn’t just about the money we leave behind. It’s about the values, habits, and love we pass down. Whether teaching younger generations how to fill a car with gas, look someone in the eye, shake their hand, or care for the earth we share, every moment matters. I’d love to hear from you: What lessons are you passing on? What traditions or values are you proud to see your children and grandchildren carry forward?
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 !
They are always listening.
–Gary Mattson
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FINANCIAL SERVICES, LLC
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INSIDE THIS ISSUE
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Little Eyes Are Always Watching — Your Actions Shape the Next Generation
2
Old-School Habits That Will Save Your Wallet Master the Art of Connecting With Grandkids From Afar
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Upcoming Events
The Parks You’ve Never Heard Of (But Need to Visit)
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.
Ditch the Tourist Traps 3 NATIONAL PARKS THAT ARE WORTH THE DETOUR
Whenever you hear a friend or family member say they’re going to take a road trip to visit some of America’s most beautiful national parks, they usually plan to visit the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, the Great Smoky Mountains, or Yosemite. These national parks consistently attract millions of visitors every year, but they’re far from the only must-see national parks in the country. There are 429 protected national sites within the U.S., and 63 of those have obtained the official “national park” designation in their names. (The other labels are battlefields, historic sites, monuments, recreation areas, etc.) If you want to experience the beauty of America without the crowds, consider visiting these destinations during your next vacation!
CHANNEL ISLANDS NATIONAL PARK, CALIFORNIA Often referred to as the Galapagos of North America, the Channel Islands are a unique area of the coast of Southern California. While visiting, you can expect to see seals, island foxes, and over 2,000 other plant and animal species, with 145 found nowhere else on Earth. You can reach the mainland visitor center in Ventura by car, but the islands are only accessible by park concessionaire boats or private boats. Make reservations in advance. CUYAHOGA NATIONAL PARK, OHIO If you want a unique experience, visit Cuyahoga National Park. Like many other national parks, you can enjoy hiking, rock climbing, and
photography while exploring the park’s 33,000 acres. You can admire many of the 1,000 species of plants and animals throughout your exploration, but if you want to get the full experience, hop aboard the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad. WIND CAVE NATIONAL PARK, SOUTH DAKOTA Exploring a cave might not be your first thought when considering national parks, but Wind Cave is a one-of-a-kind experience. It’s one of the longest and most complex caves in the world and has many unique features, such as frostwork, cave popcorn, and boxwork, creating unique sights with every step. Once you head back outside, a beautiful mixed-grass prairie, home to bison, prairie dogs, and more, will greet you.
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