Hi friends,
I’m excited to kick off this project with you. I’ll be sharing a mix of practical money tips, real questions people are asking, and a few local highlights that I think you’ll love. Think of it as part financial guide, part Portland insider, and (hopefully) something you’ll actually look forward to opening.
This edition, I’ll cover how to reset your summer spending, the psychology behind lifestyle creep, and some fun events in Portland this September.
If your wallet needs a nap after summer, you’re not alone
Vacations, events, dinners out, it all adds up fast. Now’s a great time to reset, get your cash flow back on track, and set yourself up for a strong fall. Here are four quick ways to start:
Look back before moving forward. Open your banking app and skim your recent transactions. Sort them into just three buckets: needs, wants, and “wait…what was that?” No spreadsheet required, just a quick gut check to see where your money’s been going.
Give every dollar a job. If you have some leftover cash flow, don’t let it drift away. Put it toward saving, investing, or paying off debt so it actually works for you. (That’s really all zero-based budgeting means: making sure every dollar has a job.)
Pick one September goal. Forget the all-or-nothing mindset. Take one simple action to get the ball rolling like adding $100 to your emergency fund, canceling an unused subscription, or finally opening that budgeting app. Small steps build real momentum.
Automate one money task. Whether it’s setting up a monthly transfer to savings, automating your Roth IRA contribution, or just making sure rent is on autopay, take something off your plate permanently.
Dahlia Festival – Swan Island Dahlias is in full bloom, with nearly 50 acres of flowers and a garden showing off over 375 varieties. You can wander the fields, pick up bouquets, enjoy food carts, and catch some live music — a perfect late-summer outing. (All September)
First Thursday in the Pearl – On the first Thursday of each month, the Pearl District turns into a street party. Galleries stay open late, local artists line the sidewalks, and live music fills the air. It’s a fun way to explore the neighborhood and soak in the creative energy. (9/25)
Mt. Angel Oktoberfest – A short drive from Portland, Mt. Angel’s Oktoberfest is the Northwest’s oldest folk festival and draws a big crowd every September. Expect Bavarian food, music, and dancing, plus German biers and Northwest craft favorites. (9/11 - 9/14)
The Wedge – A farmers-market-style festival devoted to artisan cheeses (and all the perfect pairings). You’ll find local cheese, wine, cider, and specialty foods. This one’s on my list — I’ll never pass up an excuse to sample a table full of cheeses. (9/27)
Make It Make Cents
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.
The silent upgrade that’s eating your paycheck
Lifestyle creep happens when “treat yourself” upgrades slowly turn into everyday habits. Yesterday’s luxury latte is today’s baseline, and before you know it, your expenses have caught up with your income.
Why it’s tricky: it doesn’t feel reckless, it feels deserved. You’ve worked hard, so why not enjoy it? The catch is those upgrades can quietly push big goals—like buying a home or retiring early—further out of reach.
How to outsmart it:
Save as you earn. Each time your income goes up, try bumping your savings or retirement contributions up too. With years to compound, a little goes a long way!
Know your big goals. When you know what you’re working toward, it’s easier to pass on short-term splurges that don’t move you forward.
Check your “before” life. Remind yourself what you used to live on and how much more you could save by keeping some of those habits.
Ignore the highlight reel. Social media only shows the best moments—not the full financial picture. Spend on what matters to you, not what looks impressive to others.
Lifestyle upgrades aren’t always bad—if they bring joy and you can afford them, go for it. The danger is letting them sneak up on you. Catching the “creep” is your chance to pause and ask: Is this something I really want, or am I just on autopilot?
Taylor’s Table
Tucked into Alberta, Gumba (goom-bah) serves creative Italian food with plenty of personality. We started with cocktails—the Secret Labubu, Cosmic Hearse, and the Blue Moon. All were inventive, but the Blue Moon stood out: a clever riff on an espresso martini with cold brew and blueberry.
For starters, the charred calamari stole the show—tender, flavorful, and layered with textures that kept each bite interesting. The braised leeks, topped with preserved lemon, were bright and tasty, though they could have been a touch softer.
Homemade pasta is where Gumba shines. The short rib pappardelle was rich and comforting, with perfectly braised meat and a subtle fennel spice. The ricotta gnocchi, tossed in vodka sauce with roasted mushrooms, was equally impressive—pillowy, flavorful, and satisfying. Pro tip: order the meatballs on the side; they’re tender, well-seasoned, and worth it.
The vibe sealed the deal—warm and inviting with a full bar, easy online reservations, and genuinely friendly staff. Whether for date night or when you’re just craving fresh pasta done right, Gumba is an excellent pick.
Charred Calamari
Short Rib Pappardelle
Ricotta Gnocchi
Braised Leeks
A Final Note
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.
Financial Advisor
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