For parties, collect cell phones and put them in a basket. "Parent calls only. Enjoy the people here! They're pretty awesome!"


12



When you feel like giving up, rest. But then keep going! So many good things ahead. So many people that are meant to be in your life who you haven’t met yet.


18



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



Brambly Hedge series by Jill Barklem.


2-5



In professional setting: Limit one exclamation point per email, if any. Definitely no emoticons.


19



A man is not a financial plan.


17



“Bullies are scared people hiding inside scary people.” -Michelle Obama


8-12



Let decency be like a religion to you. Practice it …but don’t preach it.


14



The opposite of addiction is connection. Genuine connection can take lots of forms.


14, 17, 19, 21



Never say anything behind someone's back that you wouldn't say to their face.


11, 14, 18



Look into "OK Go" videos.


7-14



If you can’t afford to tip the server, you can’t afford to be there.


15



When it comes to judging your behavior at school/ sports/ work, ask: Was I fair? Was I kind? Did I put in the work? If the answers are all “Yes,” then rest well. If an answer is “No,” then fix it.


16



The most important things I can teach you is how to love and be loved


14, 19, 21



Go out of your way to part on good terms whenever possible, in all circumstances.


18



Ask: What are you responsible for?


15-18



Try house music for focus. Spotify “uplifting trance” playlists. Better than Adderall by a mile.


12, 13, 16



The opposite of depression is expression.


15



“When happy, be kind. When sad, be kind. When ever…be kind.” - Cory Booker


9, 12, 15, 19, 21



Read maps.


9-14



Prayer for Teen Years ___ Please God, let them make good choices and get through these teen years with pride and not regret. ___ When they make mistakes (‘cause we both know they will) ____help me keep things in perspective, forgive easily _____and pour love into them again and again.


13, 14



Begin planning trip for 10th bday. Maybe to Atlantis in Bahamas or someplace he’d be excited about._____Get him involved in planning and saving.


8



No dating while unstable. Being responsible for someone’s heart means being prepared to treat them with respect at all times, regardless of whether they make you angry, jealous, annoyed, rejected, humiliated or heartbroken. If (a) you don’t think those things could happen or (b) think there’s a reasonable chance you’d lose your temper, then you’re not ready. And that’s okay! You’ll get there in your own time. In the meantime stay off the market.


12, 14, 16, 18, 21



Difficult conversations are…difficult. If you have to deliver bad news, don’t beat around the bush but prepare them for what’s coming rather than just blurting it out. “I have some news that’s going to be difficult to hear…” Or “Is this a good time to talk?” Those are just a couple examples, but many more are available. Look it up or ask people who routinely have to give bad news.


20



Explain what “On my honor” means.


8



Make yourself a good hand. Don't wait to be asked, just jump in when you see a need. Wash a dish, make a bed, change a tire, help out a friend or a stranger whenever you can.


14-20



Watch the western “1883”.


13



Getting your drivers license will depend not only on government requirements (age, passing tests, etc.) but also maturity and trustworthiness.


14



Marry for character, not just chemistry.


17, 21