Sunday, December 6, 2009

New adventures

Life is busy and always changing. At least I think so. Do you find yourself "comfortable" with your life and routine? Perhaps thinking of anything different is too scary to contemplate. Or maybe you are so content with the way things are you have no desire to change your routine, your lifestyle, etc. If this is the case, I am so happy for you.


I'm not saying go and do something drastic, but if you have something on your mind you would like to try or change why not go for it? Ask yourself: What's the worse that could happen? What are the consequences of "not trying" or "not changing"? This goes for habits on eating, sleeping, exercise (or lack of), financial planning (or lack of). I'm only saying.. just because you have always done something a certain way, doesn't mean you have to continue.


Stay tuned for our latest adventure.. a hint. A comfortable place where health and wealth truly meet. My partner Tracy and I believe these 2 areas of life are crucial for our overall well-being and want to share that with you.


In good health,

Karen :)


Sunday, November 29, 2009

4 yr old birthday celebrations

Yikes,
Time goes by so fast! My baby boy is now 4. Doesn't want to hold my hand while crossing the street and I have to force him to give me a kiss when I drop him off at his school(daycare). Loves Transformers, Batman, Spiderman... Taking over my computer to play pbs kids, and loves his books! But, still cries like a baby if he gets hurt and loves his mommies cuddles. He will always be our little boy.

We are so fortunate to have amazing friends whom we've known since the kids were only 2 months old. This year we decided to have the group b-day party with about 10 kids all turning 4 within about 6 weeks of eachother. A bit crazy you think? Perhaps a little. We kept it simple, no gifts, just quality time together and one family's house... food, cupcakes, somehow fit a bouncy castle in the house, pj's and a movie. What could have been a b-day party every week for 2 mnths and tonnes of unnecessary presents turned into the best party ever for the kids and the parents!

I say keep it simple, enjoy time together as a family/with your friends and cut the crap! You will have so much more fun and be glad you did.

Karen:)

Sunday, November 22, 2009

When something is on your mind - part 2

My last blog was about taking action. When something is on your mind and you know you have to deal with it.. sometimes it seems too big to manage so you put it off. Only to realize that it doesn't just go away it only gets bigger and scarier and maybe even consuming.

I talked about a few things that were on my mind and how finally I am beginning to deal with them. Wow do I feel so much better! Talking to other people and realizing that mostly everyone has felt this way before eases my mind and helps me understand a few things much better.

I think this topic of conversation can be used in so many scenarios. Not going to the Dr. because you fear what the news will be... not going to the dentist because you know you have cavities...not getting your Wills drawn up, perhaps it's because you and your spouse haven't talked about who you would want to look after your kids should something happen to you while they are still young...the list could go on and on...

I bring this topic up again because I did not realize how much I was being held back in so many areas of my life because I was in denial,not facing with some pretty big issues in life. Grab life by the horns! Face your worst fears! and you know what? You'll be thankful you did.

Death and illness are lots of people's fears.. what about not having enough $ in retirement years? The reality is that either of these could happen to you.. However you can have plans in place that take away the fear. That's what having a financial plan is all about Talking with a professional that you trust will ease your mind so you can just get it done. Guaranteed you will feel so much better for doing it!

Always putting your best interest first...

Karen :)

karen.divenanzo@sunlife.com
www.sunlife.ca/karen.divenanzo

Saturday, October 31, 2009

When something is on your mind..

Do you ever feel worried about something that you just can't shake from your mind? Perhaps you know that you have to deal with it eventually. Worrying about it doesn't make it go away, it just gets pushed away for now... but will come back and bite you sometime whether you like it or not.

I will not lie, It has taken me 10 yrs to deal with my Mom's death, compound that will my Dad's passing, my spouse being diagnosed with breast cancer among other things.. This past few months I have felt that there is no choice in the matter now. I must act now! If I don't will other areas of my life begin to fail? including my own physical and mental health. If you have been anywhere near me in the last month you will have probably noticed that I have come to a realization about my own life and the transitions that need to occur to move forward... a few tears have been shed.

I am not one to ask for help... "I can do, it's what needs to be done "has been a motto on mine for sometime. I now know that asking for help is okay, crazy! what was I thinking that I could do it alone.

I caught myself saying to someone.. I'm okay saying I'm not okay. Also, being okay is not okay. I want to be great! Just "getting by" in any area of life is not okay.. what is missing?, what needs to be done.? We all have the answers inside.
So.... I've been going to a counsellor and very thankful for being encouraged and finally having the courage to go. Making progress feels great! Reconnecting and slowing down to take a look at it all has made a big difference.

My advice, if you feel that something is on your mind, not sure how to deal, what to do? Talk it out with someone. Sometimes the leading up to a decision or lack of decision is the hardest part. You soon realize what was all the fuss about?

So that's me and my emotional life. What do you find is on your mind that you just haven't taken care of yet? Go do it!

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

What drives you?

I bring up this question because we are all so busy with our lives that sometimes we forget why we are doing certain things.



Brings me to why I have chosen this career path as a Financial Advisor. I think it's important that you know why.

Been a tough road for me.. oh about the last 10 yrs I guess. I actually have not really thought so until now.

Let me start with my story.



10 yrs ago I saw my Mom suffer from a terrible illness (ALS - Lou Gehrig's disease) She was only 53, I was only 23 when she died. I was young, finishing University and not really sure how to deal with all of this. I somehow managed to get by emotionally. This event in my life has made a huge impact in all sorts of ways.



Fast forward a few years and I have an amazing spouse, son, condo. Yipee! life is fantastic!

Then, my Dad passed away suddenly from a heart attack! 68 yrs old and should have lived a long life. A great Dad, big heart... Here is what happened though.. he was remarried and left everything to his new wife. The house yes, no life insurance, etc. As a grown adult no I did not expect a windfall however I would have expected him to think ahead and be better prepared for my brother and I, his grandson. You can't go back, so this is when I decided to make it my mission to help people now and in to the future to be better prepared for their families.



Okay, so if that wasn't enough, shortly after my spouse was diagnosed with breast cancer! Yes, she was 34 yrs old, we had a condo (mortgage payments), young son, other bills to pay.. you know... LIFE. So here it goes, luckily we had critical illness insurance! Yep, thankfully because what would we have done? Well, what we didn't have to worry about was money and how we would pay the bills, etc. That's what it's about. Making sure you've got plans in place to get through the rough patches of life.



Also, what about looking forward.. how will your retirement be? Will you be able to? Best time of your life? Well, having enough money to do the things you want to do will make it a whole lot better. You agree?



So, that's a bit of my story of why I do what I do. Of course I need to make a living for my family and I. I could be doing lots of different things, I will tell you though that this is what I have chosen to do, what I am driven to do. Helping you plan ahead, making sure you and your family are looked after.
Don't you think you owe it to yourself, your family to take the time now to make sure you've got plans in place?
I encourage you to contact me to discuss your situation. If there are areas of concern I'd be more than happy to help you.



Thanks!

Karen Di Venanzo

604-603-8571

karen.divenanzo@sunlife.com

Sunlife Financial

Thursday, October 8, 2009

Why do I care so much you ask?

An email I sent out recently to some friends I plan to see while visiting.

The reason for my email is because for those who don't know I am a Financial Advisor with SunLife. I now have a dual license for both Ontario and BC. I know this is a topic of conversation for some that maybe uncomfortable. But I help people with more than just life insurance which everyone needs regardless of age/status. RRSP's, savings, RESP's, long term care, critical illness. I'm reaching out to my friends and family and want to make sure that the people in my life have a back up plan in case of the "what if". We had the "what if" and Tracy needed to take 1 year off work to get well. Thank god we had critical illness insurance that gave her/us a payout of $100,000 tax free to focus on getting well and not having to worry about bills. And thankfully she had life insurance because now with her cancer, she can't get it for 10 plus years. "I couldn't image dying from breast cancer at the time and leaving my family behind to deal with financial worries" (In Tracy's own words) The older you are, the more expensive it will get. Some of you may have coverage through work. But unless you plan on being there for the rest of your life, you need a plan b. You can contact me via email so it's completely confidential if you are interested in talking about your options. We will be in Toronto from Nov 3-Nov 17 and am filling my scheduleAs your friend, I feel better knowing that I maybe able to help you with the "what if" in life.Thanks, hope this finds you well
Karen Di Venanzo
karen.divenanzo@sunlife.com
604 683 6905 ext 205
604 603 8571

Sunday, October 4, 2009

Friends and family are what we should be grateful for.


Today was the CIBC run for the cure in Vancouver and across Canada. My spouse of 11 yrs is a breast cancer survivor. She was diagnosed at 34 yrs old (2 years ago) happy to report that she is cancer-free! I always believed she/we would get through it. Never once thought I would lose her. Call that optimism or just pure knowing or maybe just in denial that what we were about to face would ultimately change the rest of our lives. She tells our story much better....


She has become a frequent speaker at events.. the most recent was the opening ceremonies at the CIBC run for the cure in Vancouver today. Her message is clear and strong. It can happen to you, what if it happens to you? Know your body and be proactive with self exams. As a Mom with a young son it was the last thing we expected. You know what? We did get through it all with the support of friends,family and the excellent care she received.


Life throws us curve balls and the most important thing to remember is to always check in to what really matters... it's not the car, the phone, etc it's who you build relationships with. Reach out to the people you care about, ask for help when you need it. They will be there for you.
This is something I am finally able to do myself. Thank you to all our friends and family that have been there to support us in everything.
xoxo K


Monday, September 28, 2009

Health Insurance: Peace of mind in today's uncertain world

Most of you wouldn't gamble your valuables, your homes, or your families. But when you're not prepared for dramatic changes that may affect your health, you're gambling that you'll always have enough income to take care of the most important aspects of your life.

Sadly, many people lose this bet. Accidents and critical illnesses can strike at any time. And when they happen, the impact on lifestyles and finances is usually staggering.

What are the chances of you needing extra care? A quick view of some recent statistics shows how often Canadians face serious health challenges:

Every 10 minutes, a person has a stroke in Canada.

39 per cent of women and 44 per cent of men will develop some form of cancer. The good news is that cancer survival rates have increased significantly in recent years. The bad news is that all will require some level of care during the treatment phase of the illness.

Major illnesses such as Multiple Sclerosis, ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease), Parkinson's Disease or Alzheimer Disease are life-altering experiences for the individual, family members, and friends who may be called on for support. Alzheimer's and other dementias affect 1 in 9 people between the ages of 75 and 84, and 1 in 3 over age 85.

Falls and accidents among older Canadians are a leading cause of the growing number of elderly people in long-term care facilities. About 25,000 hip fractures occur in Canada every year, causing death in up to 20 per cent of the cases, and disability in half of those who survive.

You might want to ask yourself the following questions about your financial security:
How long could you afford your mortgage payments and regular bills if faced with a major medical emergency?

How would you meet extra expenses for medical equipment or medications not covered by your health plan?

Who would care for you, and for how long, if you became incapacitated?

If you can't answer these questions with confidence about the outcome, you need to increase your health insurance coverage. Studies show that removing financial stress at a time of serious illness improves survival rates. Health insurance does just that. It can provide security and financial stability during times of rapidly shifting priorities and worry.

Some of the available health insurance plans that can help get you through those worrisome times:

Critical illness insurance provides a lump sum benefit to the insured if they are diagnosed with one of the covered illnesses. The benefit can be used to pay down debt, such as a mortgage, or pay for care or treatment, or to cover the costs of home renovations to make wheelchair access possible.

Long term care insurance provides weekly payments if the insured is unable to do at least two out of six daily living activities (bathing, dressing, eating, toileting, continence, moving to or from bed or chair) or if they suffered from a senile dementia. An income plan allows the recipient to choose how the benefit is spent. Personal health insurance offers a preventative approach to medical and dental coverage. It's perfect for the self-employed, contract or part-time workers or for those without group insurance. Professionals and small business owners can realize tax advantages by having plans for themselves and their employees.

The average health care costs for Canadians increase as they reach their 60s and continue to climb as they get older. Medical advances are increasing life expectancy. As our population ages, there will be fewer working Canadians to support a larger retired population. As a result, the costs of health care will likely increase.

It's important that you assess your needs and all the health insurance options available before making any decision. Investing in health insurance will help offset financial hardship and bring peace of mind that will enable you to enjoy your future to the fullest.

Sources:
Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada, Annual Report 2004.
Canadian Cancer Society, 2007
Alzheimer Society of Canada, 2007
Osteoporosis Society of Canada, 2007

Wednesday, September 9, 2009

Life is unfair

Holy crap! What is going on out there?
I just got off the phone with my partner Tracy to learn that the coordinator for the Vancouver relay for life just died. 41 yrs old, died in his sleep!! Heart failure. I can't even imagine what his family is thinking.... my heart goes out to them.

Another one to share.. My brother calls me this week to tell me that his best friend from grade 8 died as well. 35 yr old died of a heart attack! What is going on here? He has a spouse and young children. An entire life ahead of him, taken away... His family must be devastated.

I am concerned for my brother, who is overweight and does not eat the best. Our dad died recently of a heart attack at 68yrs old. Still way too young when the average life expectancy of people is roughly 76 yrs old.

Then I hear on the radio last night that 3 out of 4 kids are not getting enough exercise! Are we going to be hearing of teenagers having heart attacks?

It is no secret, I believe that everyone needs to take responsibility for themselves. Be responsible! Eat well, rest, exercise, go for check ups especially if you think you are predisposed to a certain condition. Somethings you just can't control. And you know what else? Think about your family, should you have died yesterday, or heard bad news from the Dr that you are unwell..... how will they manage? Will your kids have to struggle to go to University? Will your spouse need to sell the house? Work 3 jobs to support the family? Or maybe the better choice would be able to grieve at their own time without financial stress?
I cannot tell you enough that you just never know what will happen tomorrow.. you can control what you do today. Don't believe in life insurance? Ask your family what they would rather face? Imagine how they will feel if you just never got around to it... I'll do it later, but later never has a chance.
Hate to do this, and I'm not one to use fear as a way of educating the importance of insurance, however after hearing of these 2 scenarios I feel there is no other way.
Do you know that there are cost effective ways of insuring your life and protecting your family without breaking the bank?

My sincerest regards to the families that have lost loved ones. I know how painful it can be.. no matter how young/old they are.


Much love,
Karen

Sunday, September 6, 2009

Family Ties

This week my spouse and child spoke to a class of nursing students at BCIT. This was our 3rd visit. The teacher invited us because she loved our story so much. I shrug my shoulders and think no big deal, it's our life.... until we start to speak.

The class is full of 2o something yr olds sitting quietly. We start by bringing up how me met, the adventure of travelling to Europe, moving out West with only a few belongings. Our friends/family thought we were crazy... and we were! We talk about how we got pregnant.. life is good.! Then we talked about how illness/death affected us, brought our family closer together and what we have taken from the journey. (remember there is a 3.5 yr old drawing pics on the wipe board and dancing around) Makes it very interesting.

This time, there seemed to be a lot of questions about our boy growing up with 2 moms. I forget that this is not the norm because it's a non-issue for us. Our boy has 2 parents that love him so much that just happen to be 2 women. He has a Grandma and a Grandpa, a Nana and a Papa, a Grammy Hawk and Granddad Mark.. all whom are not "blood" related, instead they are chosen family. Aunts, uncles, cousins, and tons of friends. There is no shortage of love and support for this child and any more we plan to have I can assure you.

I know that in 45 min we made an impact on these kids. They will be slightly more prepared when working with a patient in the future to be mindful of families of all different kinds. As they build families of their own, I hope that they too find a deep connection that will stay strong in any circumstance. That they will also find a spouse that is loving, supportive, respectful. Be able to build strong friendships, and networks of people that they can count on. I am very grateful for the people I have in my life! I only wish the same for everyone else.

We always want the best for the people we care about the most. We expect the best life possible, unfortunately (and I know what that means) life can throw curve balls at us. That is why I have chosen a career that helps you always put your family first, no matter what.

After you read this, go give someone a hug! Cheers :)
Karen

Sunday, August 30, 2009

Is it wierd that I read obituraries in the paper?

I always read the obituraries in the local newspaper.. Why? I ask myself. What am I looking for? What, Don't you?

Maybe it is strange, but I recently discovered that I am not alone. I found someone at a coffee shop in Vancouver reading them as well. Interested, I thought I would ask a few questions... Did you recently lose a loved one? No, was the answer, I just like to look.
Oh, I said, what are you looking for? reply: I like to read the stories of the people who just passed away, there is always an amazing story. Yes, this is true. Everyone has their own story they have lived.

Hopefully, it was a long life.. died peacefully in their sleep at the age of 95.... Not always the case. These are especially sad to read. I think about the family that has been left behind. Then I think about the amazing gift that they have been given, the time they spent together :)
I also like to read about the person's life. I also like to see if there is an organization or society that will benefit from the gifts that people will contribute.

I have also discovered that many people avoid the discussion of death and dying because they fear it themselves. If it is not discussed, it doesn't exist... I'm not saying there is a right or wrong way to deal with our own mortality or the ones we care about, but it is a reality. Unfortunately, I have felt the sadness of losing both of my parents and I am only in my 30's. My parents were both loving, caring and supportive for both myself and my brother. I have so much to thank them for helping me become the person I am today. I plan to live a very long life, be there for my kids, my spouse, making an impact on millions of people's lives.

So I encourage you to discuss the possibility of you dying sooner than you think and what that means to you and your family. You will pleasantly surprised on how much better you will feel that you release the fear and then take action to eliminate the stress. What impact would that have on your family? A client of mine told me recently that a weight had been lifted off their shoulders when they met with me to discuss protecting their family, their home.

I hope that my note has not made you too comfortable only more aware.


Here's to peace of mind my friends,
Karen :)

Sunday, August 16, 2009

Illness - A family response

My family and I went to support the walkers at the Vancouver Weekend to end Breast Cancer this past weekend.

It brought back a lot of emotions from last year's walk. My partner Tracy is a breast cancer survivor. In 2007, at the age 34 she was diagnosed. Last year, 3 weeks before the walk marked Tracy's last chemo treatment. She walked the entire 60k but somehow managed to find the energy and strength to pass the finish line.

Something I have struggled with since Tracy was diagnosed is actually dealing with what we had to go through you. It was my coping mechanism of just doing what had to be done. I know now that by not allowing me to show my true concern and by not reaching out to my friends I am forced to deal. It is only recently that I have allowed myself to reflect on the loss of my Mom to ALS, Dad to a heart attack, the disappointment of unpreparedness and the effect that seeing my partner go through surgeries, chemo, etc. At the time, focusing on the positive, keeping routine for our young son and managing everyday life was all I could do.



Seeing the crowd of people all doing a walk in support of breast cancer was a very powerful experience for me. So many people have been touched by illness in their lives, either personally or indirectly. Some of us find it easy to reach out for help, others are not. I would be curious to know how others have learned from their experiences and how it has changed them.

From the experiences I have had, my purpose in my professional life is to help people be better prepared for the what ifs in life. We don't plan to get sick, or a family member to be diagnosed with an illness but what we can do is make sure that our plans include back-ups. Having a Will, having life insurance to protect your surviving family for when you die, protecting your income for illness and injury with critical illness insurance or disability insurance, long term care insurance to plan for health care in retirement. Finding out what is important to you, and your concerns needs to be high on the list of priorities. I have seen so many people who are in denial that anything can happen. I know from my personal experience that denial will only get you so far and you will be dealing with these, having these conversations sooner or later..... I think sooner is a better plan don't you?

Thursday, August 13, 2009

Perfect day, almost

I always tell everyone that I love what I do, I love my life, my family and I am very grateful for what I have.
Balance in my personal and business life is key for me. This was my day today..
5:20am up and dressed
6:10am heart pumping on spin bike that I teach at Just Ladies Fitness (She's Fit as of Sept 1st)
7:20am home to give wifie and son big morning kiss and hug
7:30am making oatmeal with blueberries and almonds (I look forward to this every day)
7:30-9 am - juggling shower, getting dressed, watching son do a magic show, reading books, getting son dressed, petting dog, packing snacks.. whew
9am-11:30 out the door to Family Centre. Play, talk, sign cheques (I am the treasurer on the board)
11:45 eating blizzard before lunch.. bad girl. Although completely justified because the proceeds went to the children's miracle
12-1 luch at home with family, get dressed for meetings at the office
1-2:50 at the office - check phone calls, meet with client, clean office (just got new fancy furniture)
3-4 not too much fun - drove to coquitlam to see client.. raining hard! arrived safely.
4-6 amazing meeting with a couple. Heart to heart conversation about family, illness,death and helping them figure it all out. I love it when I make a deep connection with someone I've just met. They are wanting help and I am very glad to!
6-645 drive home - more rain - arrived safely
7pm - home to have dinner with the family. Too bad wifie needed to run out the door though to teach her bootcamp.
7-7:30 story time with boy, quick cuddle
The rest of the night consisted of a coaching call, emails and pure quiet.
Not quite a perfect day because I am heading to bed by myself 'cause wifie is out til late.
good night my friends :)

Tuesday, August 11, 2009

Women mentoring women

Once a month myself and a group of lovely, inspring,professional women connect to discuss our businesses. The successes of the month, areas that we would like to work on. We are all entrepreneurs working to make a difference in the lives of our clients and potential clients. Sometimes doing this alone can be a challenge so we check in with eachother to keep us on track.
Last night I hosted and although the atmosphere of my boardroom was quite dull the conversation was not.
The topic:
Best business practices. I won't go into too much detail however the basics are obvious. Having goals, sticking to them... etc. What about marketing? This is the big question. All of our businesses seem to do best with referrals and word of mouth. We discussed budgets for personal and business expenses. What is the plan? Where do you want to be in 2,5,10 yrs from now????

Thoroughly enjoy meeting with our mentor group. I feel that we covered alot of areas and will look forward to the next one.

Sunday, August 9, 2009

weekend fun

Friday night rolled around and I did not have my weekend planned yet! Oh no, what to do with a 3 yr old who likes to do new things constantly. I didn't receive my "what's happening" email from kindervibe.ca so I was on my own to figure it out. So much to do... So I decided last minute on Sat morning. I saw a twitter update that helped me decide.
The day looked like this: Maritime museum to see Bobs and Lolo. My son loves them so that was easy!
Then we went to see the police and fire games ultimate challenge but that's not all. Next stop was the movies to see Ice Age 3. Wow, that was a busy Sat!
Sunday my partner and I were childless while the little man got to go hang out with Nana and Papa. Very nice now and then to start and finish a sentence without an interruption. Was a great day to reconnect.
As you can see I love to be doing things, never really like to sit down unless I'm working. and even then I like the constant changing of discussions and client meetings.

Now I am looking forward to a week of helping.... how planning now can better protect you and your friends/families from the "what IF's of life"

In good health,
Karen :)

Saturday, August 8, 2009

New to blogging

Well, I am going to see how this goes... I have been wanting to start a blog for awhile and now I am finally ready to go.

Let's see how it goes. I look forward to sharing my thoughts, experiences and expert advice.

Getting to know you,

Cheers,
Karen :)