Sarah Peebles-Moldan, Financial Advisor at LPL Financial

02/16/2026

Presidents’ Day! Originally a holiday celebrating the birth of George Washington, the first President of the United States, it has since become a holiday to mark all those who have served in the nation’s highest office. How will you spend the holiday weekend? A quick excursion with family or loved ones? A quiet break at home? However you are marking the holiday, here’s hoping you enjoy your Presidents’ Day!

02/13/2026

💖 February 14 is Valentine's Day! 🎉 Valentine’s Day is a time to celebrate with someone special, think back on good times, and look towards the future. Here’s to a wonderful, loving Valentine’s Day for everyone! 🌹❤️

02/06/2026

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act extends the 2017 tax cuts, making some rules permanent. The bill also creates several new tax laws for individuals while addressing other tax issues for businesses.

It might be a good time to check with your tax, legal, or accounting professional about the changes in the law. Like previous tax laws, some new rules are scheduled to expire, while others are permanent. Here’s a look at changes expected to impact most tax filers shortly.

Sources:
CNBC.com, July 3, 2025.
Congress.gov, August 21, 2025.

02/05/2026

This is a rare and encouraging moment for wildlife conservation 🦍💚

Park rangers in the Democratic Republic of Congo have recorded the birth of rare mountain gorilla twins, an uncommon event for one of the world’s most endangered species. The newborns were spotted in Virunga National Park, a critical habitat that plays a major role in global conservation efforts.

Conservationists closely watch mountain gorilla births, as the species remains vulnerable to habitat loss, illness, and human conflict. Each new birth represents a meaningful step forward for long-term preservation efforts and highlights the impact of ongoing protection programs.

Stories like this serve as a reminder of how targeted conservation efforts can support fragile ecosystems and protect biodiversity for future generations.



Source:

The twins “appeared to be in healthy condition at the time of the observation,” Congo's Virunga National Park said.

01/29/2026

In early February, don’t be surprised if you feel like you've "gone back to the future" with talk once again of a government shutdown. Investors should expect some stock market volatility in the weeks ahead as Congressional leaders start to show support—or form opposition—to the new funding proposals.

01/23/2026

The IRS has announced that it will begin accepting and processing individual federal tax returns for the 2026 tax season starting on January 26.

Here are a few important points to keep in mind:
➡️ Most individual returns are due by April 15 to avoid penalties and interest.
➡️ Filing early may help reduce delays related to processing or identity verification.
➡️ Refund amounts can vary based on withholding and recent tax law changes.

As tax season gets underway, reminders like these can help individuals stay aware of important dates and avoid last-minute filing challenges.



Source:

The 2026 tax season starts on Jan. 26, according to the IRS. Here are some key things filers need to know.

01/21/2026

🚀 Big News for Your 2026 Retirement Plans! 🚀

The IRS announced new contribution limits for 2026 in November, and there's a lot to look forward to! Here's a quick breakdown:

🔹 401(k), 403(b), 457 Plans & TSP: Contribution limit increased to $24,500 (up from $23,500 in 2025). If you're 50 or older, you can contribute up to $32,500 annually!

🔹 IRA Contributions: Limit increased to $7,500. Catch-up contributions for those 50 and older are now $1,100.

🔹 Roth IRA & Saver’s Credit: Income phase-out ranges have increased, making it easier to qualify and maximize your savings.

🔹 SIMPLE Accounts: Contribution limit up to $17,000, with higher limits for certain accounts.

🔹 Medicare Part B: Monthly premiums will rise to $202.90, impacting how much of your Social Security COLA you'll see.

Stay up-to-date with details about your retirement savings! For full details, check out Notice 2025-67 on the IRS website.

With most retirement accounts, once you reach age 73, you must begin taking required minimum distributions. Roth accounts are the exception. Withdrawal penalties may apply if you take the money before age 59½. Roth IRA distributions must meet a 5-year holding requirement and occur after the account holder reaches age 59½.



Sources:
IRS.gov, November 13, 2025
CNBC, November 17, 2025

01/19/2026

The third Monday in January is Martin Luther King Jr. Day. On that day, we mark the memory of the civil rights leader and his work. For many Americans, this is a day for service, community, and meditating on Dr. King's legacy.

01/16/2026

As the U.S. enters 2026, economists are watching several key factors that may influence the economic landscape in the year ahead. While growth held up better than expected in 2025, many households continue to feel pressure from elevated costs.

Among the biggest questions are whether inflation will continue to cool, how the Federal Reserve may respond to changes in employment, and whether housing affordability will improve gradually over time. Experts are also monitoring how the adoption of artificial intelligence could affect job growth and productivity, as well as whether stock market gains can be broadened beyond a small group of leading companies.

Taken together, these factors suggest a year shaped less by dramatic shifts and more by gradual adjustment, as businesses and consumers respond to evolving economic conditions.



Source:

From stubbornly high living costs to a softer labor market, economists say these are the forces that will shape the year ahead.

01/01/2026

12/25/2025

🎁 ✨ Amidst the gifts and sparkling lights this Christmas, let's remember the most profound gift of all: God's unwavering love. Jesus came into this world to bridge the gap between us and the Heavenly Father, offering us salvation and everlasting life. As we celebrate, let's cherish the simple joys and the ultimate gift of love and hope in Christ. 🙏 ✝️

12/23/2025

Today (or every day in December should be) is National Ugly Christmas Sweater Day 🎄🧶

It is all about having fun and not taking yourself too seriously. On this day, we honor the quirky, weird, and yes, ugly side of the holidays.

🛍️ Whether you find a vintage gem at a thrift store or create your own, the day is about celebrating with friends and family. So go ahead and put on your loudest holiday knitwear; it's your time to shine!

👇 Share your favorite ugly sweater below!