“When my father didn’t have my hand he had my back.” – Linda Poindexter

I saw this quote today, and it really resonated with me.  

I’ve had so many people contribute to my life and help lead me to where I am now.  There are many things I am thankful for, and having great parents are probably one of the best gifts I’ve ever received.  When it comes to the business side of things, having your dad/best friend/main supporter as your business partner; it doesn’t get much better.  He started this crazy journey back in the 70’s on a wing, a prayer, and a drive like no one I’ve ever known.  My parents were expecting my oldest sister when my Dad decided to come home one day and say to my mom….”I’d like to go out on my own in business and I’ll only do it if I have your support.”  I’m sure she knew he would stop at nothing to build this business, and to say he succeeded would be an understatement. 

I got into this by default when I couldn’t find a teaching contract over 12 years ago.  He asked me to come “help” until I could find a contract but instead, I slowly but surely started to love the challenge this type of business presents.  It creates a lifelong learning atmosphere that I have always craved.  I don’t know everything about insurance, but I truly love the ability to piece the large commercial puzzles together.  I love the teaching aspect of this career.  I may not be teaching what I went to college for, but I am definitely teaching.  There is nothing I love more about this career than explaining and helping someone navigate the craziness of insurance. 

I have wanted to throw my hands up in this place so many times that I probably wouldn’t have enough fingers and toes to cover it.  It is busy, stressful, overwhelming at times, but it is also fun.  I never have a day that I dread coming into work.  We collectively have created a wonderful atmosphere to work in, and I am thankful for it every day.  There are times we play little games, crank up the music, and belly laugh at each other.  It would appear things happen for a reason, and I am so grateful for that Dad holding my hand, but more importantly…having my back.  I have made so many changes here in the last year that it has been a bit of a whirlwind.  I’ve told everyone to buckle in and hang on, because this fire isn’t going out anytime soon.  He has stood there and said, “I trust you Katie…let’s go!”

Here’s to amazing Dads and here’s to enjoying this crazy ride!

– Katie