Isaac Brown, CRPS

12/19/2025

Has anyone else ever realized—at an embarrassingly late age—that they've been singing a song incorrectly their whole life? Because it turns out I'm a repeat offender when it comes to Christmas songs.

It took me until I was 25 to learn that in Jingle Bells, the lyric is "one horse open sleigh," not "one horse slope'n sleigh."

I know it makes no sense, but in my defense, I misheard it as a child, and the Brown family is not shy about singing, so surely one of my family members could have corrected me. They never did. The blood is on their hands.

Now just this week, I discovered that in Mele Kalikimaka, it's "Hawaii's way" and not "a wise way." I think this one is a much more valid mishearing, but it still came as a surprise to me.

At this point, I'm questioning what other lyrics I've been getting away with.

Anyone else??

12/11/2025

What's on the market's wish list for 2025? Raymond James CIO Larry Adam provides a festive perspective.

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11/10/2025

Donating appreciated stock has benefits for you and your favorite charities. Learn how it works:

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10/15/2025

Life hack: when running a half marathon, run with a friend who just so happens to know the guy in the blow-up T-Rex suit. You'll get a lot more cheers that way!

I mean, they won't actually be cheering for you, but good vibes are always accepted when you're fighting for your life.

10/09/2025

Question for the room: do you think age 27 is still mid-20s or late-20s? Just asking for a friend…

I feel like a lot of people get really deep and contemplative around their birthdays – something about getting older and wiser, how the past year shaped them, goals for the year(s) to come, etc.

But I must say, I'm more of a go-with-the-flow kind of guy, so I don't think I have anything groundbreaking to share in that department.

I do enjoy the sentiment though, so here are some thoughts that have resonated with me and some observations I've learned about myself over the past year:

• I genuinely enjoy yardwork, no matter the temperature.
• You don't have to be a child to enjoy playing in the snow.
• Alyssa and I do not have green thumbs, but we will figure it out, gosh darn it!
• If you paint cabinets or any type of object that's not flat as a board – invest in a paint sprayer! I'll even loan you mine if you need it! It's amazing.
• Be willing to accept people's generosity.
• Christians are called to give thanks in all things, not for all things. An important distinction I've come to understand more deeply.
• Washington state is by far the most beautiful state I've visited to date. Hands down. If you get the chance to hike in the Pacific Northwest, take it!

All that to say, I'm incredibly blessed to have made it to 27 surrounded by amazing people, unforgettable experiences, and a whole lot of grace. Here's to many more years of figuring out life one day at a time, Lord willing and the creek don't rise.

10/02/2025

I fear that I have become what I once hated…

A runner.

I'm not entirely sure what sparked it. Maybe it's the reality of crossing into my late twenties but wanting to feel 18 again. Maybe it's the fact that I'm about to become a dad and should probably care a little bit more about my health. Maybe it's the endorphin rush that ensues after strenuous exercise. Or maybe (just maybe) it's because I decided to sign up for a half marathon and refuse to let that registration fee go to waste.

Whatever the reason, I'm sad to announce that I do, in fact, enjoy running. I've avoided it my whole life, but I've finally surrendered to the cult of cardio.

Why do I enjoy torturing myself? Science says it's chemicals. I say it's a mystery.

And word to the wise – take the necessary steps to properly fuel up for long races. There's nothing quite like being 1.5 miles from the finish line and realizing you've run out of electrolytes, dignity, and willpower.

09/17/2025

📉 Fed Cuts Rates by 0.25%

Today, the Federal Reserve lowered its benchmark interest rate by 0.25%, bringing the federal funds target range to 4.00%–4.25%. This marks the first cut of 2025, and the Fed has signaled two more cuts may be coming before year-end.

💡 What does this mean for everyday finances?

🔹 Loans & Credit Cards: Rates on variable-rate loans (like credit cards and HELOCs) tend to follow the Fed's moves. Borrowers may see slightly lower interest charges over the coming months.
🔹 Mortgages: While mortgage rates don't directly track the Fed, they're influenced by broader market trends. Fixed rates have already eased from earlier highs, and further cuts could support more favorable terms for buyers and refinancers.
🔹 Auto & Student Loans: New auto loans may become marginally cheaper. Private student loans with variable rates could also see reductions.
🔹 Savings Accounts & CDs: Savers should expect yields on high-yield savings accounts and CDs to decline.

📊 Bottom Line: Rate cuts are designed to stimulate borrowing and spending, but they also mean lower returns for savers. With more cuts likely ahead, it's a good moment to reassess your financial strategy with a professional.

**This content is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as investment advice or a recommendation. Please consult a qualified financial adviser before making any financial decisions.**

09/11/2025

May we never forget September 11, 2001.

09/05/2025

National 401(k) Day is an opportunity to reflect on your long-term financial goals. Whether you're just starting out or approaching retirement, reviewing your 401(k) strategy can help ensure you're on track for the future you envision.

09/03/2025

In pretty much all areas of my life, I'm a realist, especially when it comes to sports. My guess is that comes from growing up in small-town West Virginia, where we're kind of in a no-man's land when it comes to team loyalty. Aside from anything WVU-related, it's a mixed bag of who people root for. To date, no team has truly earned my unbridled support. (I could still be persuaded!)

But when I saw that my alma mater, Marshall University, was playing at Sanford Stadium for UGA's home opener this season, I was pumped! I hadn't made it to a UGA game yet, so getting to go while repping my Kelly green felt extra special.

Did I know we were going to get whooped? Absolutely. And did we get whooped? Oh yes – absolutely obliterated. But it was still a blast!

We ran into some old friends at a Marshall alumni tailgate (totally unplanned) and got to chat with a few local Marshall grads. All in all, a great weekend. Can't wait to go back and cheer on the Dawgs next time!

08/29/2025

College is not just for the young. More adults over the age of 50 are returning to the classroom, finding purpose, building connections and experiencing cognitive benefits along the way. Discover how lifelong learning is reshaping retirement.

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08/22/2025

Adulthood looks different than it did 30 years ago. Today's young adults face rising costs, delayed milestones and evolving expectations, and many parents are stepping in to help. Explore how financial and emotional support are shaping this transition:

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