Sometimes it feels really good to say “no.” (Or “no thank you.” Or “$@!#% no!”)


14, 20



If you don’t know where to begin, picture where you want it to end, and work it backwards.


15, 21



Marriage tip: King sized blanket on Queen size bed.


21



There is all kinds of darkness in the world- disease, accidents, natural disasters, etc. But the worst darknesses are man made: War, violence, poverty, injustice, indifference. Push back against all of it as much as you can. Light will beat the darkness in the end. Fight on the side of the light. Love, truth, beauty, creativity, connection and compassion.


20



We’re born full of love. Life is about choosing where you want to put it. -xo


15, 19, 21



Do not be daunted at the world’s grief. Do justly now. Love Mercy now. Walk humbly now. You are not obligated to complete the work, but neither are you free to abandon it. -The Talmud


15



Something to remember on those days when the kids are making you nuts and you’re at the end of your parenting rope: “They love you no matter what. They always want to be close to you. Even when you’re screwing up, they still think you’re amazing. They want to be just like you when they grow up. You are their hero. You may be their mom, but they’re constantly reminding you of your worth.”


2



Fire drills. Practice what to do, where to go if the house is on fire. Have an escape plan.


5-10



Learn to tie knots.


10



"Love is nothing more and nothing less than relentlessly showing up for your people." - Glennon Doyle


18-21



Read Elizabeth Gilbert’s book on creativity. Re-read every few years!


17



Every time your heart breaks, your vision gets better. You appreciate beauty and recognize and respond to others’ pain better.


12, 15, 18, 21



Talk about how to "go the extra mile."


14



Talk to him about applying to Democracy Summer program started by Rep. J. Raskin.


18



Remind them they’re safe to feel whatever they’re feeling.


2, 12, 21



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


11



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


11-14



Thomas Jefferson’s Ten Rules of Conduct. This makes a good exercise for penmanship or for writing “lines” as instructional punishment.


11



Changed behavior is the only real apology.


15



Never give unsolicited advice. Instead ask “How can I best support you?”


14, 20



Have a yearly “review” right before school year. Raise allowance as appropriate. If they want more money, they’ll have to take on more responsibilities.


7-17



1

When someone hurts us or REALLY pisses us off... We have to pray for them. It’s hard to stay mad at someone you’re praying for.


8-18



Google Taylor Swift contrast Kim Kardashion at 2024 Superbowl. Good vibes are always better than “cool.” Show up. Dog park energy. Forget trying to look cool.


15, 17, 18, 21



If it’s the right thing, if something needs to be done… Make yourself do it. You’re never going to “feel like it.” Practice daily with things big and / or small without complaining.


9, 12, 15, 21



Remember that whoever you’re grieving would only want the best for you.


20



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


12, 13, 16



Kitchen knife skills. Know how to properly and safely cut, slice, chop, dice, carve, etc.


15, 21



Micro-internships. Check out Parker Dewey for ideas.


16, 17, 18



If you get comfortable telling little lies it will be easier to tell big lies. Tell the truth, even on small matters. (Except if your friends ask if they look fat. Then it’s okay to lie!)


13, 18, 21



Rudeness is a weak person’s imitation of strength.


13, 21