I think we can all agree that these are tough times for families.

Of course, the financial crunch continues to grow.

The two largest costs of housing and car continue to rise.

Employment opportunities seem to be changing.

So, earners in the family must be sure their skill set is still in demand.

The children in the family have their own confusing world to deal with.

Immediate access to social media adds to the confusion.

In many families open communication is difficult because of all the committments of the day.

All family members must learn to express empathy for one another.

Parents must be sure to praise their children for their accomplishments.

And as difficult as it may be, express your love for one another every day!

If not today, when??

Decisiveness is a good quality and a requirement of leadership.

We must not, however, confuse decisiveness with snap judgement.

A person’s ability to make a quick decision will not necessarily result in a GOOD decision.

A decisive person must rely on personal experience, opinion of experts and fact gathering.

This kind of leader will earn the respect of those who must implement the decisions made.

You can become more decisive by being sure of the facts supporting your decisions.

As you become more decisive, you will also grow in self confidence.

…And earn the respect of others.

How many times have you worried about tomorrow and it never happens that way?

And the opposite is true when you look forward to a day that ends up less than you had hoped?

Today’s blog is an important topic.

Because we are constantly beating ourselves up needlessly.

So, we must devote our focus to today so we can have better tomorrows.

Actually, a popular saying is: Live in the present moment.

We can’t live in the future or the past.

SO DON”T!

Trade schools offer a variety of career paths focused on hands-on skills.

They include careers in construction, electrician, plumber & carpenter.

Other options exist in healthcare including dental hygienist and practical nurse.

Automobile technician and diesel mechanic are usually a large source of employment.

Trade schools provide training for roles in information technology, welding, culinary arts and cosmetology.

As you can see, many career opportunities can be launched from a wide variety of trade schools!

You’ve heard this over and over again.

But do you do it?

You can become healhier and enjoy life more than you do now.

I have a regular commit to arduous walking that begins my day.

I also have some light weight lifting exercises that I do twice a week.

A recent physical exam told me I’m doing the right thing.

I just feel strong with more energy

Take better care of yourself with REGULAR exercise!

If not today, when?

Some people have decided to go from 2 cars to 1 car.

Of course, there are some schedule conflicts.

But, actually very few.

And the financial savings are enormous.

Gas, lease payments, charges for exceeding lease mileage, license tabs, insurance, maintenance.

There may be trips we make with 2 cars that are really unnecessary.

If you’re looking to cut household expenses, this may be an answer.

There is Zach McKinstry of the Detroit Tigers!

I love watching him play baseball!

Why, because he executes every phase of the game extremely well!

286 Batting average!

7 Home Runs!

28 Runs batted In!

80 Hits!

13 Stolen bases

He’s always got a big grin on his face!

He obviously loves the game.

He has played every position except catcher.

He’s just been named to the 2025 All Star Team!

He makes 3 hours of every summer day such fun!

(Google)

All the below are found on a Google website dealing with risk taking.

Some may be of interest to you or none of them!

Taking risks is essential for growth and fulfillment in life.

Risk taking allows for new experiences, learning and the possibility to achieve one’s potential.

Courage is not the absence of fear, but the judgement that something else is more important.

Risk taking requires the importance of courage and overcoming fear.

It also requires embracing uncertainty in order to achieve growth.

Taking calculated risks is different than being rash.

Lucille Ball said: I’d rather regret the things I’ve done than the things I haven’t done.

I agree with Lucille Ball.

I’m so glad I was a crewman aboard the big yachts racing from Port Huron and Chicago to Mackinac Island!

I feared doing it for many years!

It’s not always easy.

But, it’s so important for you and all of us.

Recently, I have not been as positive as I’ve always been.

One of my family members reminded me of that.

And I’m making corrections to my attitude.

Let’s face it. No one wants to be around a grump!

Be positive in expressing yourself and your ideas.

You will always find greater acceptance.

Even though, sometimes, you have to fake it.

Sometimes faking it leads to a great attitude that lasts the whole day.

If not today, when?

Some people are so consumed with their wealth that it is all they can think about. They worry about it and how to protect it and increase it. It is the prime focus of their life.

They are almost unaware that there are people right around them who are hungry. Perhaps the waitress who served them coffee this morning or the man who parked their car. Maybe it is a person who cleans their home or their office.

The poor are not always visible and usually try not to expose their needs. In fact, sometimes they deliberately fake happiness so that you will not know of their needs.

Every religion in the world speaks of this issue. Feed the hungry, do good works every day, no salvation without good deeds in this lifetime, take care of widows and orphans. The words don’t matter. It is the message.

Look around you. SEE THE HUNGRY.

Sometimes an unexpected large tip will feed a family for a day or two or three.

Be the person who doesn’t have to be asked.

Just surprise someone in your everyday surroundings with a quiet, generous gift and expect nothing in return.

Feel the joy in your heart.

Do it often!