Good morning!

As we officially transition into summer, we have exciting news that Royal Caribbean Cruises is back in action. We’ll talk a bit more about how they’ve launched and what that means for them from an economic perspective. Then, we have some thoughts on including kids and other younger family members in the financial side of the family in a healthy way. Finally, we’ll hear a bit from one of our team members, Becky, on what she’s been up to.

As we’re all doubtless aware, the cruise industry has been completely shut down from departing from US ports for over a year now, thanks to the pandemic. It’s so easy for germs to spread on cruise ships that the CDC has locked them down. Now, however, things are maybe beginning to pick back up. Royal Caribbean launched a ship with staff and their family and friends as guests to get itself going again. Bringing back cruise ships will be very good for the employment numbers in Florida, where about 159,000 residents work in the industry. So far, Royal Caribbean has had to delay one cruise thanks to staff members testing positive for the virus, and another Caribbean cruise ship tested had two members of its fully vaccinated crew test positive. Our fingers will be crossed that everyone can enjoy the cruise.

Speaking of friends and family, we love seeing our clients take a proactive role in their financial planning. We know that many of you might have children or grandchildren who have questions about it. So we thought you’d appreciate this article on financial advice for children, with tips for teaching kids from elementary age through college how to plan for their financial future.

At Obsidian, we work with people of all ages, so if your child or grandchild, whether they’re a kid or a grown-up, wants to talk to us, we would be happy to set up a meeting. Plus, we’d get to know your family better, which we always love to do!

On the topic of getting to know people better, we’re excited to begin a summer series of catch-ups with our Obsidian team. Last summer, we shared more extended interviews with team members, so we’re circling back around for quick updates this summer.

First up is Becky Clawson, our Professional Service Partner. Becky lives in Frederick, has two elementary-aged kids, and is married to a professional musician.

Here’s what she has to say:

What was your takeaway from 2020?

I’m not meant to be a teacher! Though I’ve got an immense amount of respect and gratitude for those who teach our children. We’ve also found a new appreciation for everything there is to explore just outside our door since we couldn’t travel last summer.

What are you looking forward to doing now that things have begun to open and return to normal?

We’re so excited to re-connect with friends and family. Our kids are very happy to get to see their friends and PLAY! We’re also looking forward to spending several weeks hiking and exploring Grand Teton and Yellowstone National park this summer.

That’s it for us this week. We hope everyone has a great weekend!

Past performance is no guarantee of future results.  Securities offered through Triad Advisors, member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory Services offered through Obsidian Personal Planning Solutions, LLC. Obsidian Personal Planning Solutions, LLC, and Obsidian Personal Planning Solutions, Inc, are not affiliated with Triad Advisors.