A Story of Love and Laughter Over 60 Years
By Krista McBeath, McBeath Financial Group
May Day traditions have many forms and meanings, but for my husband Robert’s parents, Bill and Rosie, it was a simple way to have fun and inject a little laughter into their daily lives.
As a young child, Robert remembers that on May Day, May 1, his mom would gather a bundle of flowers in a homemade basket, sneak outside to the front door, ring the doorbell, and take off running! If his dad could answer the door and catch her before she made one full lap around the house, then he would get a kiss! They began this tradition when they were newlyweds, and Robert fondly remembers all of the excitement and laughter it created every year.
As they approached their 60th anniversary, we learned that they still did this! Even though it had been slightly modified as they approached 80 years old, they carried on the tradition for 60 years! Sometimes Rosie must ring the doorbell many times before Bill finally answers. And when he does, she smiles, a basket of flowers in her hands, and says, “I can’t run.” Sharing her excitement, Bill responds, “Good, because I can’t chase you!”
Isn’t that just wonderful? All these years later, their tradition has changed as they have, but the sentiment remains the same. I’m inspired by their love and connection, but more than that, I admire the way they live.
Robert’s parents have always been hardworking. His mom finally retired as a hairdresser just a few years ago, while his dad retired from working at the Pontiac Caterpillar plant. They are an average middle-class couple who saved and sacrificed for many years to have a very modest yet secure retirement. Their cars may not be brand new, and they love their senior discounts, but they have all they need in life. They have always been grateful for what they have together and their family. Over the years, they’ve diligently planned for their needs and—more importantly—they’ve never forgotten the important things that money can’t buy.
Spending time around people who live this way reshapes how you think about success and security. It becomes less about accumulation and more about intention—about using what you have in a way that supports the life you want to live.
That perspective is what guides my approach to financial planning. While the work involves critical and analytical thinking, planning for the future is deeply personal. It requires care, understanding, and attention to the life behind the numbers.
When I review a financial plan, I don’t just see numbers and trends. Those figures represent security, confidence, and the ability to enjoy meaningful moments. The purpose of thoughtful planning is to help create space for those “peak moments” in life—big and small—regardless of the size of a retirement account.
Through their May Day tradition and other little actions, Bill and Rosie have taught their children—and, subsequently, their grandchild—that it doesn’t matter how much money you have or make. What matters most is that your financial plan allows you to enjoy those moments, be they big or small.
As they say, money can’t buy happiness. It can fuel the dreams you have, but sometimes all you need is a bundle of flowers in a homemade basket to create a beautiful, lasting memory and a happy life.
Krista McBeath is an Investment Advisor, Chartered Financial Consultant, a Licensed Insurance Advisor, and a Fiduciary. As an experienced tax advisor, she specializes in financial planning, investments and insurance. Krista’s Amazon best-selling book, The Generational Wealth System outlines a holistic approach to preserving lifestyle, wealth, and legacy. Phone 309-808-2224 or email info@mcbeathfinancial.com for appointment information.
Advisory services are offered through Landmark Wealth Management Inc, dba McBeath Financial Group, an SEC Registered Investment Advisor firm. Insurance products and services are offered through McBeath Tax and Financial Services, LLC. McBeath Financial Group and McBeath Tax and Financial Services, LLC. are affiliated