Growing up, I heard words of wisdom from my parents many, many times. I have a list of my father’s top 10 Words of Wisdom in my office. They truly tell the story of how I came to view the world and the work that I do.

But first let me tell you how I got here. I grew up with one sister and two brothers. I am the eldest of the lot. My parents strove to help us live good, happy lives. My father was a mail man and my mother was a stenographer (a good old fashioned typist).

In addition to instilling values for living, they instilled a great respect for education in all of us. They believed, as I do, that education can make a difference in a person’s life. In fact I graduated with a degree in Elementary Education. Teaching is a caring and helping profession, with many parallels to that of a financial advisor. In the case of the profession that I have now done for almost 40 years, I see it as caring and helpful work that involves people’s lives around money.

We were also taught to save money, share money and to spend it wisely. (Note number 4 below.) We did not have a lot of direct conversations about money but learned through the way our parent’s lived. Both of my parents worked until 65 in order to first provide for their children and then to save for their retirement. We were not wealthy but our lives were rich. Their example provided me with a strong work ethic and a belief that it is important to assess where you are in life and where you want to go.

Back to my dad’s Top 10 Words of Wisdom, the words of wisdom I learned to live by and will share with you.

1. Life is not fair, get used to it
2. It builds character
3. The world doesn’t revolve around you
4. If you don’t have the money, you don’t need it
5. Winners never quit, and quitters never win
6. Don’t be a puff
7. I would rather wear out than rust out
8. You’re a great American
9. Hang in there the first hundred years are the toughest
10. Give’r yakabuski

These words have shaped my vision and values in life. We are here to help you envision yours.

I am married to Lance, and have two daughters, Kelsey and Jacie. I enjoy travelling, running (have finished two marathons and many half marathons), downhill skiing, gardening, reading (especially mysteries) and am starting to dabble in watercolor.

Education, Certifications, and Awards:

• Graduated from University of Wisconsin, Stevens Point, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree.
• Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
• Active on the Finance Committee for the Minnesota Ovarian Cancer Alliance (MOCA)
• Former board member of the Friends of the Mississippi River (FMR)