April Highlights: What We're Reading, Listening To, Making & Where We're Going

Melissa Kolcz |
Categories
Monthly Blog
Beyond the Portfolio

Welcome to the inaugural issue of Beyond the Portfolio! Each month, our team will pull back the curtain to share a little of what’s been inspiring us lately. From binge-worthy shows and page-turning books to mouthwatering recipes and hidden-gem coffee spots, consider this our way of “sharing the wealth."

What We're Reading  - Book of the Month:

The Nightingale, The Women and The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah - "I've been making my way through Kristin Hannah's collection of historical fiction, starting with The Nightingale, followed by The Women, and most recently The Great Alone.
 
Her novels are the kind that stay with you long after you’ve turned the final page. Her storytelling is immersive and emotionally rich, weaving powerful narratives that explore love, loss, resilience, and the unbreakable bonds between women. She has a rare gift for bringing history to life through deeply human experiences, and her characters feel so real it’s as if you’ve lived their lives alongside them. 
 
Whether she's writing about war-torn France, the untamed wilderness of Alaska, or the shifting tides of gender roles in the 20th century, Hannah delivers stories that are both heart-wrenching and profoundly inspiring. Every book is a masterclass in historical fiction — and a reminder of the strength it takes to survive, to love, and to begin again.
 
You can find many of Kristin Hannah's books at your local library or via a visit to one of my favorite bookstores on the Cape - Titcomb's Bookshop on 6A in Sandwich." - Katie Brennan Kane, Managing Partner

What We're Watching - Show of the Month:

A Man on the Inside -  "One of our clients recently recommended this Netflix show and it is certainly binge worthy! A Man on the Inside is about a widower, eager to shake up his routine, who answers an ad from a private detective to solve a mysterious theft. Posing as a new resident, he goes deep undercover at a senior living community, building heartwarming new friendships and a stronger bond with his daughter along the way. You will laugh, you will cry and most certainly have a hard time turning off the TV." - Jayme Rose-Franklin, Client Service Associate

What We're Making - Recipe of the Month:

Soft Gluten Free Bread - "Lately, we’ve been experimenting with gluten-free recipes in our house due to some new dietary restrictions. If you’ve ever tried store-bought gluten-free bread, you know—it’s often dry, crumbly, and just doesn’t quite hit the mark.

So, we decided to take matters into our own hands and bake it ourselves. After some trial and error, we found a recipe that’s not only gluten-free but also delicious, soft, and perfect for sandwiches or toast.

We’re excited to share it with you—whether you're gluten-free or just looking to try something new, this one’s worth a spot in your recipe rotation." - Kelli Grew, Managing Partner

Where We're Going - Destination of the Month:

Bahamas - "I recently returned from a wonderful family trip to the Bahamas to celebrate my parents' 40th wedding anniversary. We flew direct from Boston with JetBlue, which made the travel super easy, and stayed at the beautiful Baha Mar resort. I can’t recommend it enough —there’s truly something for everyone, from relaxing pools and great dining to a daily flamingo parade that’s a fun treat for all ages!

What really made the trip seamless and extra special was working with Christine Wilson, a local travel advisor. She was incredible — helping us plan, book, and organize every detail with care and expertise. If you're thinking about a getaway, I highly recommend reaching out to her. Her contact info is below!"

- Heather Lynch, Financial Advisor

Christine Wilson
(774) 994-7537

What We're Listening To - Music Artist of the Month:

Frank Sinatra - "I lost my father unexpectedly this past January and one of the things that has helped me through the grief is music. My dad absolutely loved Frank's music - Summer Wind was one of his favorite's and we played My Way while holding his hand as he passed peacefully surrounded by family. Listening to Frank Sinatra brings tears of happiness and reminds me of the wonderful memories I had with him. I recently attended a Frank Sinatra Night with Patrick Tobin & Band at Pelham House Resort in Dennis and it was absolutely incredible. Patrick Tobin & his band are extremely talented and I know my dad was there with us in spirit. They have another performance coming up at the Vault Performing Arts Center & Pub in New Bedford on May 31st.

- Melissa Kolcz, Client Experience Manager

Thanks for joining us this month! We hope these recommendations inspire some new adventures, great reads and delicious creations. Don't forget to share your thoughts or let us know what you're loving right now. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more updates and exclusive recommendations!

See you next month!