Create tech-free zones and times.


10, 11, 12, 13, 19, 21



Walking at night during the wintertime remember to wear a bright scarf or something reflective. So many pedestrians get hit when it’s dark outside because they’re wearing dark colors and drivers can’t see them.


15, 20



One of the best doctors I ever worked with started his day by walking through the office and saying “good morning” to everyone. He’d do the same before he left at the end of the day, just making sure everyone was ok, to call him if they needed anything, etc. I don’t know what your career will be but if you’re in a position to do so, I hope you’ll adopt this habit.


21



Keep stuff on hand for guests. Be ready to be a good host / hostess at any moment.


16-21



1

It’s very easy to wander into trouble- not usually easy to wander out of it.


12



You are 100% replaceable at work. You are not replaceable at home. A good work ethic is crucial but don’t drain yourself to the point that you don’t have anything left for your family and friends.


21



Use Shutterfly or something like it to make Christmas books and birthday books each year.


Infant-21



Visit the Grand Canyon together


18-21



Be willing to say “I don’t know” if you don’t know! Don’t just make stuff up.


15, 20



Institute a “leave by” time instead of a curfew. That way they won’t panic / speed if something out of their control happens to make them late. “Leave Riley’s house by 10pm.”


13



Plastic stackable dresser - 5 drawers labeled for days of the week. Put outfits in each. No drama emergencies on school days, the week’s wardrobe is planned out.


5



Go easy on the cologne, perfume, scented lotions, etc. People shouldn't be able to smell your perfume a mile away, only up close. Also, it's generally not appropriate for work.


17



take advantage of the bike trail. Bike places as a family.


11



Take the train to Roanoke.


10



Plan a trip to Disney this year.


6



When disciplining remember: First acknowledge the emotion, then address the behavior.


2-4, 13, 15



Jam is an incredible resource of fun learning activities and projects in a safe online environment. Ages 6-16.


6



When you feel like you’re on fire with anger or fear, if you can’t shake it, put that fire to good use.


14



Walk up the Washington monument. No elevator!


11



Get at least 2, preferably 3 estimates on any major expenses for home or car.


21



Jump in and help where help is needed. Don’t wait to be asked. Whether it’s clearing dishes at home or friend’s house or tasks at work. It could be something big like solves problem or little, putting paper in the copy machine at work.


15, 18. 21



Keep in mind the human tendency (rightly or wrongly) to think “how it ends is how it was”. Could be a work shift, a class, a relationship, etc. try to end on a good note.


16, 21



“Be brave. Be resilient. Be kind. Be grateful.” -Hillary Rodham Clinton


12



Help them develop a positive attitude. http://www.momentsaday.com/10-activities-help-young-children-develop-a-positive-attitude/


5



“In the middle of the pain you didn’t cause, the change you didn’t want, the reality you didn’t know was coming . . . your life can still be beautiful.” Lysa TerKeurst


20



If you feel like you can’t get your act together, that you’re less mature than some others your age, I have the recipe for being a grown up: Read, travel, help those in need. READ everything you can get your hands on: books, audio books, newspapers, etc. Travel to places that are different than your experience. Keep a lookout for people (or animals, or groups or causes, etc) who are struggling. HELP those in need.


12, 14, 16, 19, 21



We can learn, we can evolve. Let yourself be moved by the spirit. More beauty, more service, more humanity, deeper (or questioned) faith, more love. Always more love. That’s the best I can hope for: that you live a life full of love.


21



Universal Studios


12-18



Appalachian Mountain Club


9-13



Be weird. Be happy. Be you. xoxo


12