An album is like a book, meant to be taken as a whole. It tells a story, has its own vibe. Let’s listen to an album together every week.


12



Sometimes it’s easier to describe what a thing is *not* than to describe what it is.


14, 21



Explore American Sign Language. Libraries have books and websites like Lifeprint.com are great resources. It’s a good skill, helps build vocabulary and verbal skills. Seems that preschoolers are naturals -they just think it’s fun.


4-5



Go on a cruise


12-15



Watch movie Sky Walk (2019) it’s about a school paper.


14, 18



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


20



You tackled a big project and you're wondering if it will be a success. Ask yourself: "Was I fair?" Was I kind?" " Did I put in the work?" If the answer is yes, then rest well, no matter what the outcome. If the answer is no, go back and fix it.


17



People always say “Be yourself.” That’s good advice but really what does it mean? I think it’s easier to explain what it DOESN’T mean: When you’re being yourself you’re not pretending to be interested in something or someone you’re not. You’re not doing something just to please someone else (or just to tick them off.) You’re not wearing anything that makes you feel uncomfortable. You’re not pretending to have fun when you’re not having fun. You’re not trying to impress anyone. You’re not trying to fade into the background. You’re not trying to change anything about yourself or someone else. I think that’s a good start. What does “being yourself” mean to you?


11-14, 18, 21



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


7-14



"Tough times don't last. Tough people do."


11-14



1

Practice people skills: Firm handshake, introducing yourself, being courteous when encountering / being on receiving end of someone’s rude behavior, offering your seat (never sit while someone with gray hair, pregnant belly, any sort of injury or really anyone who is older or who works harder is standing.)


10



Marriage tip: King sized blanket on Queen size bed.


21



Kindness is magic.


11, 15, 21



Throw leftovers and some cut up veggies in an omelette/ frittata. Cuts down on food waste and saves money.


17



“Your goals will kick you in the shins and steal your lunch money.” -Jon Acuff. You have to fight back, even though some days you lose. Failure is part of the process. Keep going.


19



I promise I will never snoop. No matter how curious I am, I will not violate your privacy. But if I ever think you may be in danger I will break any promise and any law I have to in order to keep you safe.


10, 12, 14, 15



Set up a 529 plan. Virginia has a great plan if you don't want to do too much research https://www.savingforcollege.com/


birth-age 3



Teach them about Oliver Cromwell’s rule: “I beseech you, in the bowels of Christ, think it possible that you may be mistaken.” Leave room for your mind to be changed by new evidence or perspective.


14



I hope you never abandon yourself to be loved or accepted by someone else. They’re not getting the real you and you’re missing out on the experience of being loved and accepted just as you are.


16,21



Let people do what they want to do so you can see what they’d rather do.


16



Learn how to sail together


12-15



Plan a few screen-free weekends every year. (Reticket until 16.)


7



Girls: does he put in the effort even when it’s inconvenient or uncomfortable for him?


16, 20, 21



A simple trick to calm your nerves: Name 5 things you can hear right now.


5-15



1

Anything can be an opportunity for you to grow if you approach it with the right mindset. “What can I learn” “How can I turn this into a way to advance my goals?” I know, it’s kinda corny but it’s true. Your attitude is everything.


8, 10, 14, 18, 21



“You will use up everything you got trying to give people what they want.” —- Nina Simone


17



It’s very difficult to pull off sarcasm in written form. It does not translate.


15



Police officers and members of the military put their lives on the line to protect us. Be respectful of them and thank them for their service.


9



Toddler years: Tater tots make everything better. The smaller ones cook faster and you don't have to turn them.


2



Kids (and people of all ages) need attention, affection and appreciation. It’s not all they need, but it’s a start!


11