A fun, fabulous, financial newsletter you can use

December 2015; Issue: 149

Our fall travels wrapped up with a conference in Miami at the Hotel Fontainebleau this month. Being in Florida at the holidays didn't feel all that festive with this modern Christmas tree against a back drop of palm trees, swimming pools and the ocean.

As we reflect on 2015, it was a terrific year, personally and professionally. We are extremely grateful to so many people, especially our clients, colleague, friends and family for being on this journey with us. We cherish every call, Christmas card & photo, email and gift that has graced our door these last few weeks. Each story you share just warms our heart.

Grab a cup of something warm to drink, take a few moments for yourself and read through the newsletter. (I'm sipping some coconut chocolate tea.) We hope this issue gets you ready and excited for 2016. If we can help make it fabulous, let us know!

Wish you a Merry Christmas and a New Year filled with health, peace and prosperity!

Cheers,

RC: :-)

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From Bill's Corner...

Strategizing Social Security

"I'll go to Congress and fight for you."

How many times have we heard that from our politicians? There's a lot of tough talk on the floor of the House of Representatives, but how often do these officials actually back it up? Almost never. But that wasn't always the case.

On Feb. 15, 1798, U.S. Reps. Roger Griswold of Connecticut and Matthew Lyon of Vermont showed their true grit. On the floor of Congress that day, Griswold started taunting and insulting Lyon. "Have you ever even been in a fight" goaded Griswold. Defending your manhood was a big deal on the floor of Congress back in those days, so Lyon replied that he had been in many a fight with people from Griswold's state, and then he spit tobacco juice in Griswold's face. The fight was on! Griswold immediately rushed Lyon with a hickory walking stick. Lyon rushed for a nearby fireplace and equipped himself with a pair of iron tongs.

The Vermont and Connecticut delegations cheered their men on. Cooler heads soon intervened and separated the brawlers. But, the fight continued in the halls outside the House chamber. The episode historically became known as the "Royal Sport." "I'll fight for you" had some meaning back in the day.

On Nov. 2, President Barack Obama signed into law the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2015. The law puts off a "fight" over federal spending and debt until after next year's presidential and congressional elections.

The Bipartisan Budget Act of 2015 is full of varied material. Notably, it has many implications for retirees or those getting ready to retire.

The bill will eliminate sophisticated Social Security claiming strategies such as "File-and-Suspend" and another similar Social Security claiming strategy known as "Restricted Application."

Read more...

Time to Share. Create a Buzz.

Kripalu, nestled in the Berkshires over looking the beautiful Stockbridge Bowl, empowers people & communities to realize their full potential through the transformative wisdom and practice of yoga.

Each year, Kripalu's programs help thousands of people gain the tools they need to make long-term change in their lives and in our world. Treat yourself to a retreat or a workshop in 2016.

10 retirement solutions for 2016

Here are some ways to improve your retirement finances in 2016.

8 money milestones
to strive for in your 60s

Here's a list of milestones you should aim to accomplish before the big 7-0!

9 things to do in the New Year to brighten your financial outlook

Strive to pay off lingering debt and get your finances in order in 2016.

What widows should about know about financial advisors

Experts recommend taking these steps to make the inevitable time of transition easier.

8 money experts answer: 'What are the best ways to stretch a dollar?'

Personal finance gurus share tricks to make your money last.

Top 16 up-and-coming
destinations for 2016

An expert panel of pros who thrive and survive on travel to new frontiers share what's hot in 2016.

In the media...on the blog

WH Cornerstone's principal's are tapped by the media to write for and contribute to a variety of publications. Here are our latest contributions.

INVESTORS, PLANS & MONEY: Strategizing Social Security
Old Colony Memorial, November 27, 2015
View...
Budget Bill Makes MAJOR Changes to Social Security Planning
Boston.com, November 10, 2015
View...
INVESTORS, PLANS & MONEY: Being mortal
Old Colony Memorial, October 23, 2015
View...
Paula Harris quoted in: Lessons Learned: Where do you go for business advice?
Boston Business Journal, October 9, 2015
View...
Paula Harris quoted in: Business Panel: Nurturing the spirit of entrepreneurship

The Patriot Ledger, October 7, 2015
View...

And, from our blog...

Wealth Mastery
Women and Money Mindfulness
Cornerstone Cottage Open House
Widowhood: When life throws you a curve ball
Lonely: A widowers perspective
Allowance: Saving, Sharing, and Spending

Life's Greatest Lesson
Financial Steps to Take in Widowhood (or Not to Take)
Avoiding Mistakes in a Divorce in 5 Easy Step

About us

We are authentic, thoughtful, straight-shooters who provide the sound, visionary stewardship that helps our clients protect their financial foundation while building their wealth.

We are private and independent, which means we have the unique ability to build deep, meaningful relationships with our clients with no competing agendas. We are a legal fiduciary for our clients.

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We have several decades of broad financial and business expertise that enables us to knowledgeably advise on a wide range of financial and business affairs and to help our clients navigate the sea of complexity with confidence.

We are strong believers in the power of near-term, actionable planning and disciplined focus on forward-facing goals.

We are at our best when we help our clients optimize their financial resources to realize their goals and dreams.

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