Make "place value cups" as a rainy day activity and way to teach big numbers. (google, youtube or pinterest)


6-7



Listen to albums. Two of my favorites came out the very same month: Cowboy Carter by Beyoncé and The Tortured Poets Department by Taylor Swift.


12



Just let them be who they are. Enjoy getting to know them.


1-21



Bring Christmas cookies to local fire station and police station. (Annually)


7-14



Visit Aunt Janet in Morehead City for Seafood Festival in October


2-99



If they like you you’ll know. If they don’t you’ll be confused.


15, 21



I love the quote “The call towards authenticity is sacred” by Paula S. Williams I think it means that a few things: Being called. We are called by something higher to grow and stretch, to evolve. That evolution is a journey that should be undertaken with humility, compassion and love. To impede one’s quest to be authentic, be it our own or another’s, is a grave injustice and should be avoided at all cost.


13-17, 21



Don’t use a bad word when you can use a good word.


10



“The Guy in the Glass” poem by Dale Wimbrow_______ When you get what you want in your struggle for pelf,__ And the world makes you King for a day,___ Then go to the mirror and look at yourself,___ And see what that guy has to say. ____ For it isn’t your Father, or Mother, or Wife,____ Who judgement upon you must pass. The feller whose verdict counts most in your life____ Is the guy staring back from the glass. He’s the feller to please, never mind all the rest, For he’s with you clear up to the end, And you’ve passed your most dangerous, difficult test If the guy in the glass is your friend. You may be like Jack Horner and “chisel” a plum, And think you’re a wonderful guy, But the man in the glass says you’re only a bum If you can’t look him straight in the eye. You can fool the whole world down the pathway of years, And get pats on the back as you pass, But your final reward will be heartaches and tears If you’ve cheated the guy in the glass.


15



Some people think the world owes THEM. They have a backwards. We are servants. How can we best serve?


12-21



We feel best when we create. No amount of food, video games or any self-destructive habits will fill that hole. So why fight it?!? Create something, even if it’s as small as a little sketch or poem. Grow a garden, bake a cake. Start a business! Whatever your beautiful heart desires.


12, 15, 18, 21



Enrich your mind. Refresh your body. Renew your spirit. - Andrew Weil, MD.


13, 16, 19, 21



Go to Montgomery County Fair


5-14



Life doesn’t need to be perfect to be beautiful.


20



Getting dumped from a bad relationship or fired from a job that’s killing you is kind of like pooping your pants: Horrifying...but also a little bit of relief. Keep your perspective and you’ll be fine. xoxo.


20



Highly recommend book about math and multiplication techniques:“The Best of Times” by Greg Tang.


10



With toddlers (or teens), first acknowledge the emotion. Then deal with the behavior. Validate their feelings. Once everyone is calm, address the behavior and discuss consequences if appropriate.


2, 13, 17



Read (or listen to) The Greatest Generation by Tom Brokaw together as a family. It's broken up into small vignettes so it's easy to get through bit by bit.


15



Relationship advice: Is she interesting? You’ll spend more time with her than anyone in your life. Does she make you laugh? Will she make a good mom? Life is long. These are the things that matter.” -Paraphrased quote from Barack Obama


21



Resist the urge to give unsolicited advice. Wait…this entire thing is unsolicited advice!


15



When driving in the car with your kids, ask them to count motorcycles, cyclists, pedestrians. Prize to the highest count! This will train them to be on the lookout for them.


10



Find an activity / sport that they enjoy and support it. Get them outside and in the fresh air.


6-16



Watch Ted Lasso together.


16



Three things you cannot change: The past, the truth, someone else.


18



“Great minds discuss ideas. Average minds discuss events. Small minds discuss people.” - Eleanor Roosevelt


13, 19



In social situations it's better to talk too little than too much. Don't over-share with people you're not close to.


15



1

Kids Can Make a Difference is a great resource for teaching little kids about poverty and equality.


6-10



Watch “The Sandlot” together. Great story about friendship and showing up for each other.


8



Go on a cruise


12-15



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


16-21