Becoming a Parent

My husband and I are expecting our first child any day now. There’s so much I could write about on this topic. There’s the excitement, the nerves, the anticipation, the depth of it all.

But what I’m currently struck with is the concept of being present. As you can imagine, it’s easy to have the refrain “I can’t wait until she’s here” running in my head 24/7. And soon, I’m sure, I’ll have a new default refrain of “I can’t wait until I can sleep.” But I’m fighting to replace these with a version of “enjoy this moment” reminding me to be present.

Right now, I’m experiencing a time that is distinctly unique. I don’t want to miss any part of it. And what I’ve been reminded of is the fact that we all are. Each of us is in a season that we will never be in again.

Imagine your one-hundred-year-old self has the chance to relive your day today. To wake up in your current body and life. What would you notice? What would you do? I know I would pay less attention to the pains of pregnancy and more to feeling my daughter’s kicks.

I’ve recently had particularly meaningful conversations with clients about retirement and various life changes. Some have found meaning in gifting to adult children and charities now rather than later. Others have made financial sacrifices for the benefit of a greater goal, and are now able to reap the benefits of their prior sacrifices. Others are spending more of their assets in ways that create memories and bring them joy, where they previously struggled with allowing themselves to spend money. Others are now spending their time on what’s most important to them, which is easier said than done. All of their time and intentionality spent ‘financial planning’ has resulted in so much more than you would think could be associated with financial planning. And I’m deeply grateful that my job allows me to be a part of this.

I suppose I’m writing this as a reflection in a unique time including a personal thank you. Thank you to our clients for letting me be a part of your lives. You bring meaning to mine. And you’ve reminded me to be as present as possible during this season that I’m entering into.

Merry Christmas and happy holidays to each of you!

Hannah Whatley, CFP® is a Senior Advisor with Rather & Kittrell