Summer 2026

Newsletter

Halfway Through the Year: Are You Still on Pace for Your Financial Goals?

It’s hard to believe we’re already halfway through the year. Summer often gives us a chance to slow down just enough to reflect — not only on vacations and family plans, but also on our financial goals.

Life changes quickly. Markets move. Expenses shift. Priorities evolve. A mid-year review can help identify small adjustments now before they become larger concerns later.

A few important areas worth revisiting include:

• Retirement savings contributions

• Investment allocation and risk level

• Upcoming retirement timelines

• Tax planning opportunities

• Emergency savings and cash reserves

• Changes in income, health, or family needs

Many people are surprised to learn they’re actually closer to their goals than they thought — while others discover a few strategic adjustments today could make a meaningful difference down the road.

Retirement planning isn’t about perfection. It’s about staying intentional, flexible, and focused on the future you want to create.

If you haven’t reviewed your retirement picture recently, summer can be the perfect time for a financial check-in.

Summer Financial Tip:

Before booking that vacation, try this simple rule:

Plan the memories first… then the extras second.

Most people never regret the family trip itself — but overspending on upgrades, dining, and impulse purchases can create stress after returning home. Setting a vacation spending plan ahead of time allows you to fully enjoy the experience without bringing financial guilt home in your suitcase.

☀️ Summer Favorites & Family Celebrations

Pat and I always look forward to summer and a few traditions that officially make it feel like the season has arrived!

We’re both big baseball fans, so making it to at least one Toledo Mud Hens game and one Cleveland baseball game each summer is a must. There’s just something about sunshine, a ballpark, and a hot dog that never gets old.

Travel is another item high on our summer checklist. This July, we’ll be heading to Mackinaw City to explore the area and finally check it off our travel bucket list. We’re excited for a little adventure, beautiful scenery, and hopefully some cooler temperatures along the way!

Most importantly, summer gives us extra opportunities to spend quality time with family. This year is especially meaningful as we celebrate my parents’ 70th wedding anniversary in June. Family will be traveling in from all over the country to celebrate this incredible milestone together. Reaching 70 years of marriage is such a rare and beautiful accomplishment, and we feel incredibly blessed to celebrate alongside them.

We hope your summer is filled with fun memories, meaningful moments, and time spent with the people who matter most.

LPL's weekly market commentary highlights what the markets have done year to date. It also shows which sectors are winning over others. Take a peak by clicking below!

Wishing your family a fun-filled summer!

And remember… sunscreen protects your skin, but a financial plan helps protect your future. 🙂

Julie Luther