A Note from the CEO:

As I reflect upon the last 6 months, we have truly been living in “interesting times.” While this original saying purportedly comes from an ancient Chinese curse, it seems more like an accurate description of our lives right now.

When Connee proposed this topic for a blog post it caused me to take pause for a moment. More importantly, it made me stop and open the door to my home office, in hopes the children would come by and visit me. It made me stop and tell my wife how much I appreciate and adore her. It made me stop and recount all the Zoom calls that have been interrupted… rather, have welcomed new participants such as our children, spouses, and pets.

The most amazing part of being separated during this pandemic is that our lives, if only in part and on occasion, are now being brought into our workplace. Or, more accurately, our workplaces are being brought into our lives.

Although not able to interact with each other in person, we are getting brief glimpses into the part of our colleagues, business partners, and clients lives we have never known.

As a friend of mine said to me recently, “We are having the opportunity to share our humanity in the workplace… our most common bond.”

While my children have yet to meet Bailey (Connee’s dog) in person, they are always excited to see him when we are on our weekly video calls.

So whether it is your children, spouse, friends, or pets that help remind you of our shared humanity, I hope all of them make the gratitude swell in your heart.

Without Wax,

Kevin A. Kaylakie

CEO & Founder, SineCera Capital

And yes, the pups pictured below are all current or former members of the Sullivan family!

From the Desk of Connee Sullivan

It is August, otherwise known as the “dog days” of summer, with lazy days, oppressive heat, and this year, another month of pandemic. It seemed appropriate to pause for a moment on a lighter note, and reflect on all the life lessons I have learned from the dogs in my life. So pour a glass of lemonade and enjoy these bits of canine wisdom.

1. Greet every day with a smile

And gratitude. Whether you start your day with prayer, meditation, or just a good tail wag, it’s the best way to get going.

2. It’s good to have a plan

For dogs, that might be walk, eat, play, nap, repeat. Although a human plan is more involved, the idea is the same. But even with a plan…

3. Always be up for a little spontaneity

That is the spice of life.

4. save for a rainy day

Whether that is a bone tucked under a sofa cushion or an extra savings account, it’s always smart to have something set aside for the unexpected.

5. Spend time outdoors

It’s good for you.

6. Try new things

A dog may never master the game of Twister, but openness to new experiences can be a lot of fun.

7. Spend time with children

They laugh and smile a lot more than adults do.

8. Treat friends and family like you haven’t seen them in months

(even if it’s only been a few hours).

9. Embrace optimism

A positive outlook, especially if you have a back-up plan (see #4), can help your dreams come true.

10. Keep Calm and Carry On

Don’t stress the ups and downs of your life, or the stock market for that matter. These pups are invested in our All-Weather portfolio so they don’t have a thing to worry about!