Learning from my mistakes.

The older I get, the easier it is to admit when I’m wrong.  The past few years, I have continued to learn more about myself through my interactions with others.  I have also learned that spending quiet time alone really helps me focus better.

As the kids get another year older, and I slow down a little more, I continue to learn.

What did I learn in 2019?  The following things, and then some.  But, these are the most important to me:

1. Laundry will always exist.  I don’t have to acknowledge the pile every time I walk by.
2. I can’t please everyone at dinner time.  I need to make a sign that says: “This is a kitchen, not a restaurant.”
3. Teenagers need more space.  But, not too much space.  Stay as close as you can to them, just so they know that you’re there in case they fall and need help getting back up.
4. Listen, even when you have something to say.  You might think it’s important, but that doesn’t mean everyone else would agree.  My saying for the year: “I have often regretted my speech, but never my silence.”
5. Being patient is hard, but very rewarding.
6. No one cares how tired you are today, how much sleep you didn’t get last night, or how much you ran.  Get over yourself and get the job done.
7. Being a good friend is being a good listener.  Sometimes, friends just need to talk to someone.  Be that someone.
8. Dirty dishes are not important when someone really needs you.  Dr. Seuss may be the most important thing RIGHT NOW to a four year old; the dishes will wait for you silently.
9. There is a difference between having a “clean” house and having a “tidy” house.  Both are completely acceptable.
10. Everyone is different. They have different priorities, opinions, and goals.  Be your own person and let them be their own person, too.
11. Eye contact is highly under-rated.  Be present.
12. For the sake of your mental health, it’s ok to say no.
13. Do what makes you happy.  If something feels wrong, there’s a reason.
14. Never miss an opportunity to tell someone how much they mean to you.  People need to be appreciated and recognized.
15. Pray more. It always helps.
16. Every day, every moment is a gift. Love your people fiercely and entirely.
17. Do what you love and love what you do. Your heart should be in it.
18. Racing can be fun, but expensive. Training is the real journey, day in and day out.
19. Be thankful.  Things could always be worse.

Run Happy. Run Long.