At Moore Invested, we often talk about living life with an upside.

For some people, that means finally retiring with confidence. For others, it means spending more time with family, traveling more often, or pursuing passions they never had time to explore during their working years.

Recently, one of our longtime clients, Chuck Storla, shared a story that perfectly captured what “life with an upside” can look like.

Before summer officially began, Chuck and his daughter took a trip to New York City together. The plan? Catch a couple of Broadway shows, enjoy the city, and attend the Mystery Writers of America Edgar Awards banquet.

Now, if you’re not familiar with the Edgars, they are among the most respected honors in mystery writing, a pretty remarkable stage to stand on for any author.

And Chuck had earned a nomination.

While he joked that he “didn’t come home with a trophy,” he also reminded us of something important: sometimes the experience itself is the reward.

As Chuck put it: “It’s an honor just to be nominated.”

What stood out to me most wasn’t simply the recognition, though that’s certainly impressive. It was the bigger picture behind the trip.

A father and daughter making memories together in New York City.

A client pursuing creative work and seeing it recognized on a national stage.

An opportunity to meet Matt Martz, the publisher of Murder Two Doors Down, Chuck’s published novel.

And perhaps most importantly, a reminder that our lives are meant to be about more than schedules, statements, and obligations.

Though Chuck did say one of the biggest victories of the trip was discovering his tux still fit. Honestly, that may be the most relatable part of the story.

At Moore Invested, financial planning has never been just about numbers to us. The numbers matter, of course. But what matters more is what those numbers allow you to do.

Sometimes they allow you to take the trip.

Sometimes they allow you to chase the dream.

Other times, they simply give you the freedom to say “yes” to moments you’ll remember forever.

Chuck’s story is a great reminder that fulfillment doesn’t happen by accident. It’s built intentionally over time through wise decisions, meaningful relationships, and staying connected to what inspires you.

So congratulations to Chuck on the nomination, the memorable trip, and the continued success of Murder Two Doors Down.

And thank you for sharing a little piece of your summer with us.

Here’s to living life with an upside.