Change is Really, Really Hard
Change is exceptionally difficult, and it seems the older we get, the harder it becomes. Some change is for good reasons, some for less than ideal reasons. As financial planners, we are here to help see our clients through life changes – be that retirement, a home purchase, starting families, marriages, divorces, loss of loved ones, and so many more. Some change takes courage, some takes faith, and some takes resources. Meridian may not be able to provide the first two, but we can help with resources and hopefully provide confidence and clarity as you navigate life and the changes it brings.
As you may have heard, there has been a major change here at Meridian – our trusted colleague Lucy Valandra has left. But it is for the most wonderful reason – she and her husband are expecting twins! They have made the decision to move to Michigan to be closer to much needed family support.
Lucy was an integral part of the Meridian team for more than five years. In that time, she helped dozens of people on their financial journeys with kindness and thoughtfulness. Her care for her clients showed in detailed plans and tactful portfolio management. Wearing multiple hats, Lucy also managed Meridian’s marketing and social media, doing an impressive job of curating interesting articles, sharing Meridian’s content, and keeping our followers up to date on the goings on at Meridian.
I especially will feel her absence. In addition to being my colleague, Lucy is also my best friend. Outside of the office, we share a love of horses, Mexican food, reality TV, and so much more. We have been on countless adventures together, shared so many laughs, and seen each other through life’s highs and lows.
I want to share one of my favorite stories about my friendship with Lucy, because it embodies the amazing friend and supporter Lucy is. I grew up riding horses, but unfortunately my post college equestrian job left me jaded, so much so that I stopped riding for the better part of four years. In 2020, Lucy had been encouraging me to hop on one of her horses. I initially refused but Lucy wouldn’t let it go, and I finally swung a leg over her horse. I have been riding consistently since. Lucy found the horse I leased, loaned me her horse so I could compete, and helped me find joy in riding again. And for that, I am so grateful.
While Lucy is now 500 miles away rather than sitting at her desk 20 feet from mine, I am confident that our friendship will endure, and I cannot wait to see Lucy be a mom to her two little boys. I also trust that Lucy will always remain a friend and resource to Meridian and our clients.
We miss you already, Lucy!
-Kira