If you think you had an adventurous weekend, I may have you beat. I had a surprise birthday party for my daughter who turned 14 (dear Lord I’m not old enough to have a 14 year old- nonetheless, here we go!). We invited 15, and 35 8th graders showed up at my house Friday night. I am not even joking. The doorbell just kept ringing, and most parents just waved from their car as they drove off with the largest grin. And I got the license plate numbers just in case they didn’t come back… Even the Papa John’s lady left in a hurry.

All in all it was a great time. No broken bones, holes in the wall or stains on the carpet. Megan, my daughter, was thrilled that so many of her friends came out to wish her a happy birthday. The look on her face when she walked in was worth every bit of anxiety I went thru the entire night. And to add to being a glutton for punishment I agreed to let 7 of her friends stay overnight. I’m either going to win dad of the year or my official insanity license. Well, I suppose that is one of the benefits of having a bachelor pad. If I did have a wife, I probably wouldn’t have one after this weekend…

The next morning I made breakfast for everyone and the girls were sitting around the table talking. They started talking about all kinds of stuff, some light and some heavy. I was so impressed when I heard Megan tell a good friend, “Ya know, I have found that life opens up when you do. Even though you have to live in that situation, it doesn’t have to define who you are.” In my heart I said “Yes!” Isn’t it great when you see that your kids actually do listen and they do get it? I love those moments and can’t wait for more.

So, my motivation for us is to simply open up to life. Let’s take the advice of a young person who is still positive, creative, imaginative, and full of belief that the world of possibilities are not out of reach; instead they are right in front of you.

It’s not about life happenings, but life openings. Happenings are out of your control, but openings are paths that we create for ourselves and others. Life sure does happen, but more importantly life sure does open! With this new year, it’s about broader thinking, new horizons, healthier habits, lifestyle increases, limit crushing, record breaking, and visions turning into reality.

“Everyone can see the same sky, but not everyone sees the same horizon.”

Happy New Year!

I’m so glad it’s finally here. I am sensing a lot will come into fruition for us in 2012. We have worked hard and have seen good results, and the culmination of all that will be fantastic this year.

I’ve had the words “new associations” in my head for several weeks and am putting that into practice right now.

Every year at this time people use and even overplay the word “new.” With New Year’s Eve it’s not like there is magic dust mixed in the confetti that transforms us into new people and ideas. However, it is a unique time to make a fresh commitment to ourselves, family and business. So, when I say new associations, I don’t mean a departure from what you have known, but rather adhering to a newer set of values, a fresh sense of self esteem, and a renewed vitality.   

In 2012 we are associating ourselves with new business, new finances, new relationships, new fitness routines, new character and new mentalities. When you are tempted to fall back into any rut or small thinking, nope- because you have new associations. You are associating yourself to newness and advancement. Go ahead and expect as you do the right thing, for the right things to work for you!


“You have done what you could — some blunders and absurdities have crept in. Forget them as soon as you can. Tomorrow is a new day. You shall begin it serenely and with too high a spirit to be encumbered with your old nonsense.”

Emerson