My wife and I recently found ourselves “turtle-sitting” while my daughter and her husband visited his parents. "Julia", the name my grandson has given this turtle, certainly doesn’t do anything fast. In fact, we weren’t sure she was alive for the first two days since she hardly moved. As I watched her, I was aware of how dependent she is on those who care for her and yet, seemingly, she is without worries. She doesn’t let the circumstances of life bother her, unlike most of us.

Although turtles may not be the most interesting pets, there are many things I learned from Julia:

• Delight in simple joys (like lettuce!)
• Slow and steady wins the race.
• You only make progress when you stick your neck out.

I don’t know where this time in life finds you, but I would encourage you to step back and realize what’s truly important. One step can make a world of difference. It’s not all the "stuff", it’s the connections between us that add real meaning to our lives. It also never hurts to slow down a little, gain some perspective and take time to smell the flowers along the way.

There have been uncertain times in the past and there will be more in the future, but if we let circumstances dictate our feelings, we become victims rather than a victor. Let’s live each day as it comes and see the good rather than the bad.

I would take a page out of Julia’s book-- Don’t worry about tomorrow; each day has enough trouble of its own.

Here's to the future!

Dr. Dennis K. Barker, CFP
President

Anchor Capital Management Group, Inc., is a Securities and Exchange Commission Registered Investment Advisor. Opinions expressed are not to be construed as a solicitation to buy nor sell securities. *Anchor Capital utilizes a tiered fee schedule that offers lower management fees to accounts with higher balances. Any investment returns presented are calculated gross of fees utilizing actual accounts which represent a model strategy. Individual returns may vary substantially from those presented due to differences in the timing of contributions and withdrawals, account start dates, and actual fees paid. Past performance is not a guarantee or indication of future results. Presentation is for informational purposes only and no guarantee is made as to the accuracy of this information by Anchor Capital Management Group, Inc.