People always told me that in your forties, you care less. Well, it is proving true. But it’s a strange paradox, I do care less, but I also care more. I care less about things that used to deplete me like proving myself, chasing approval, keeping up. And I care so much more about everything that matters.
Now, I am in my full “Give-A Dang” era. I care more now than I ever have, about my walk with Jesus, my marriage, my family, my career, my health, my friendships, my community. I am awake to it all, and now that I am, I am NOT going back.
So why the change? Well, honestly, I always DID care. I have been putting up the “I don’t care” facade when deep down, I knew the truth. I thought trying hard made me seem needy. What’s changed is I now realize that acting like I don’t care doesn’t make me seem strong at all. It was just a defense mechanism to avoid failure and vulnerability, and frankly, people saw through the ruse anyway. That internal opposition left me feeling drained and confused, because I was out of alignment with who I really am. So, I am fully embracing careful consideration and channeling 100% of my attention to what fills me and serves others.
The most wonderful thing about giving-a-dang everywhere I can? It’s not exhausting, its renewing! I feel grounded and rooted in purpose. I feel like I have matured into my convictions, and that I have a sense of wholeness without having to be “on”. I just CARE! And it feels great! I have seen some amazing women in their own “Give-A-Dang” stride. They seem to walk with presence, above the noise, and their influence is a big part of what triggered my awakening. I see you, girl, and you are making me better!
Maybe you are feeling it too? That tug toward intention that used to be dulled, an attraction to that rhythm of purpose where your priorities have reordered themselves, not out of pressure, but out of clarity. Do you feel like you are starting to care more, even as you care less? If so, welcome. You are in good company. Let’s walk this out together.
Meticulously and conscientiously yours,
Tristan Evans
Insurance Defined:
What is a Bond?
A bond is a financial guarantee that you’ll meet your obligations to someone else. If you don’t, the insurer (surety) pays them and then recovers the loss from you. Think of insurance as protection for you; bonds are protection for your clients.
Common contract bonds:
Bid bond: Guarantees you’ll honor your bid and contract terms if awarded the job.
Performance bond: Guarantees you’ll complete the project as agreed.
Payment bond: Guarantees your subs and suppliers get paid.
Common commercial bonds:
Surety bond: Guarantees the customer gets what they paid for (e.g., notary bonds).
Fidelity bond: Protects against theft or employee dishonesty (often what “licensed and bonded” refers to; includes ERISA bonds).
Utility bond: Required by utility companies to guarantee payment for services.
Book Recommendations
'Everything is F@%#ed''by Mark Manson
Manson turns his gaze from the inevitable flaws within each individual self to the endless calamities taking place in the world around us. Drawing from the pool of psychological research on these topics, as well as the timeless wisdom of philosophers such as Plato, Nietzsche, and Tom Waits, he dissects religion, politics and the uncomfortable.
'The Let Them Theory' by Mel Robins
If you've ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or frustrated with where you are, the problem isn't you. The problem is the power you give to other people. Two simple words—Let Them—will set you free. Free from the opinions, drama, and judgments of others. Free from the exhausting cycle of trying to manage everything and everyone around you.
Know Your Coverage Options:
Employee Benefits Liability
What is Employee Benefits Liability (EBL)? This insurance policy covers mistakes or omissions made in the administration of employee benefit plans. For example:
Mismanagement of benefits
Errors in calculating or distributing benefits (health insurance or retirement plans)
Failure to provide accurate info to employees about their benefits
Only applicable if an organization offers benefits to their employees
Insurance Coverage in Action:
Employee Benefits Liability
The Incident
A construction company’s HR manager failed to add an employee’s new spouse to the company health plan during open enrollment, even though the paperwork had been submitted. Months later, the spouse was injured and denied coverage, resulting in $75,000 in uncovered medical bills.
The Result
The employee sued the company for negligent administration of benefits. The company’s Employee Benefits Liability (EBL) insurance responded, covering legal defense and settlement costs and paying approximately $68,000 toward the medical expenses and legal fees.
September James | Senior Sales Director
Independent Pink Cadillac - Mary Kay
September James, born in November, is wife to Tim and mom of five children—one they lost and four living, ages 20 to 13. As grateful Parker County residents, the James family treat her Mary Kay business as an “ours,” not “mine” career, with each family member playing an important role.
September began her Mary Kay journey in her early 20s as a newlywed, just hoping for extra income, a discount on products, and encouraging relationships with other women. When her husband lost his job during a severe recession, what began as a “little business” became the unexpected provision that carried their family through.
A defining moment in her career came when she publicly failed in a big way—an accolade she hadn’t earned began to define her, forcing her to examine her motives. Though painful, it led to a powerful reset, reminding her that her worth is not tied to achievements and that “failing forward” can be a path to true success.
"Find out your true identity, exactly how God made you. Stand strong knowing you are NOT an accident but made beautifully. Working in your strengths is fulfilling and exhilarating but trying to be someone you're not can be exhausting."
Today, September also leads 62-hour silent, Christ-centered retreats for busy, high-powered women who are often hesitant to unplug. By stepping away from electronics and constant communication, they discover some of the most productive and restorative hours of their lives.
