October Edition: Paadee Thai & Fall Financial Reset

Most of us feel the sting of losing money more strongly than the joy of gaining it. This is called loss aversion, a concept from behavioral finance that shows we tend to weigh losses about twice as heavily as gains. In other words, the painful feeling of losing $100 might be just as intense as the joy of winning $200.

Over a lifetime of investing, this bias can quietly shape our decisions and lead us astray. When markets dip, loss aversion may push investors to sell too quickly, locking in losses instead of allowing time for recovery. On the flip side, fear of loss can keep people from ever investing in the first place, causing them to miss out on years of compounding growth.

The long-term impact? Smaller portfolios, more stress, and a harder path to financial freedom. That’s where working with an advisor comes in. Having a trusted partner helps keep emotions in check, manage risk appropriately, and anchor decisions in a long-term financial plan, so you can stay focused on your goals with peace of mind.

Giant Pumpkin Regatta – This event returns to the Tualatin Commons every October and the races are exactly what they sound like: costumed competitors piloting a gaggle of gigantic gourds through a watercourse. The regatta kicks off the day before the races with a pumpkin weigh-off at the Pumpkins and Pints event at Stickmen Brewing. (10/19)

Hood River Valley Harvest Festival – The Hood River Valley Harvest Festival brings together farm-fresh produce, artisan goods, local food and drink, and live entertainment for three days of autumn magic along the waterfront. With a beautiful backdrop of the Gorge’s fall colors, it’s the perfect way to welcome the season. (10/10 - 10/12)

Snowvana Portland – Calling all winter sport enthusiasts! Snowvana is the Northwest’s largest gear sale with up to 70% off on new and used gear, as well as your favorite ski resorts offering lift ticket deals and ski/stay packages. Aside from the gear sale, local retailers and brand reps, showcasing the latest gear and offering their event-exclusive deals. (10/24 - 10/26)

Portland Book Festival – After a two-year hiatus, this event is back with on-stage author conversations, interviews, panels, pop-up readings, drop-in writing workshops, live music, an expanded book fair and in true Portland fashion, food trucks parked outside on festival day. The featured authors include Rebecca Yarros, author of Fourth Wing, and Stacey Abrams, author of Coded Justice. (11/8)

Portland Open Studios - This event gives you a sneak-peek at the personal studios of painters, photographers, printmakers, jewelry designers and other talented craftspeople. You’ll lead yourself on self-guided tours, visiting creative workspaces where artists are encouraged to facilitate interactive experiences. Rather than simply viewing artwork, you can converse with the artists, ask questions and observe their creativity in action. (10/11 - 10/12, 10/18 - 10/19)

CHECK OUT MORE EVENTS IN PORTLAND →

This is where I’ll answer your unfiltered, anonymous money questions. No judgement, no jargon, just clear answers to the things you’ve always wondered but maybe never asked.

Most people have at least heard of Roth and Traditional IRAs, and many even have one sitting in their portfolio. Because these accounts are so common, financial professionals sometimes breeze past the details. But the truth is, the type of IRA you choose can make a big difference in how your money grows, how it’s taxed, and the flexibility you’ll have down the road.

If you qualify, a Roth IRA can be an incredibly powerful tool because your money grows tax-free, you’ll never face required minimum distributions, and you always have the flexibility to pull out your contributions without penalty. That combination makes Roths especially attractive for younger investors or anyone focused on long-term, tax-efficient growth. That said, Traditional IRAs remain a cornerstone retirement account. They offer immediate tax deductions, no income limits, and continue to be a strong option throughout your career and beyond. You never “outgrow” their usefulness as a way to save for retirement. ¹

Paadee has been on my list for a while, and after seeing it spotlighted by Gregory Gourdet (chef/owner of Khan), I finally made it over. Tucked in the Kerns neighborhood, which is already on the foodie map, the restaurant leans into Thai comfort food inspired by the chef’s childhood favorites.

We started with cocktails, and the list is as playful as it is creative. The Ken Lee was the standout—Haku vodka, lychee, limoncello, pandan, and sparkling wine—light, refreshing, and perfectly balanced. After dinner, we capped off the night nearby with a “bonus drink” at Too Soon, home of what’s rumored to be Portland’s best vodka soda.

The Kanom Gui Chai (chive cakes) were a hit: crisp on the outside, chewy and mochi-like inside, with a fresh chive flavor that stayed delicate rather than overpowering. The soy-based sauce was deeply savory and brought everything together. The chicken wings, glazed with tamarind or dusted with a northern laab rub (we got both), were another favorite—juicy, crunchy, and a fun departure from the usual wing flavors.

Among the mains, the standout was the Ba Mhee Pitsanulok. The spicy-sour pork broth carried the brightness of tom yum but felt more subtle and layered, with tender pork belly adding richness and depth. Every spoonful offered a little something different, making it both comforting and exciting. We also shared the pad see ew, khao soi, and green curry, which rounded out the table with classic Thai comfort.

The atmosphere tied everything together—plants tucked into corners, natural wood tones, and pops of color that gave the space an inviting, indoor-outdoor feel. Between the cozy interior, the small patio, and the lively energy, it’s the kind of place that works equally well for drinks with friends or a flavorful dinner. Paadee delivers what it promises: Thai comfort food with warmth, personality, and enough surprises to make you want to come back.

Thanks for reading and supporting this new adventure—I’m so glad you’re here.

Until next time,

Cheers to making money less stressful and life more fun.

Investment advisory services offered through Concurrent Investment Advisors, LLC (SEC Registered Investment Advisor). Securities offered through Purshe Kaplan Sterling Investments (PKS), Member FINRA/SIPC. PKS and Concurrent/Columbia Associates are not affiliated. This material is for informational purposes only and is intended for the recipient(s). It is not investment advice or a recommendation to buy or sell any security. For full disclosures, please visit www.columbiaassociates.com