Buffaloes, Marshmallows and Discipline

Be a Buffalo! I live in CO which is one of the only states that has the privilege of being the home to wild buffaloes and cows. These unique animals are similar in many ways, but behave quite differently when reacting to a storm. With the huge Rocky Mountains to the west and the flat…

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Excellence or Perfection?

On the surface, Excellence and Perfection seem to be the same word with some slight verbal gymnastics going on. The point of this Blog post is to emphasize the VERY important differences between these two words. In short, it comes down to MINDSET. Often, when we think Excellence, we think of a goal that we…

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PURPOSE for Kiddos

PURPOSE for KIDDOS As parents, we understand that having a strong PURPOSE inspires us to perform better. When we are doing a task for a higher good, we are moved to do it more effectively. This higher purpose behind our actions motivates us and improves whatever it is we do. Shouldn’t we try to instill…

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More Than Winning

More Than Winning You may sometimes hear it said that “winning isn’t everything, it’s the ONLY thing!” This obviously isn’t true for youth sports and I dare to say that it isn’t accurate for pro sports either. I am writing this blog post from my cousin’s apartment in Harrisburg, PA as we prepare to make…

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Teaching Kids Optimism

TEACHING KIDS OPTIMISM When you were a child, or even as an adult, you may have been told to “cheer up” or “look on the bright side.”  While this is undoubtedly good advice, did you ever think about how optimism affects you physically and emotionally?  Research has shown that optimists are healthier, live longer and…

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Physically Active Preschoolers

Physically Active Preschoolers It may seem that preschoolers, with all their energy, need no help staying physically active.  Actually, the opposite is true.  If preschoolers are guided through planned physical activity, studies have shown that they will be healthier and happier. Preschoolers At Risk For Health Problems According to www.healthykids.org, today’s preschoolers are at risk…

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The Education Challenge

THE EDUCATIONAL CHALLENGE Many children are living with chronic stress. Over time this stress damages the brain and makes it very difficult for children to learn. The Effects of Stress on The Brain: Sympathetic nervous system activates “flight or fight” response; Body increases heart rate; Adrenal gland releases Cortisol (see below); and Blood glucose is…

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Kids and Stress

Psychologists believe that today’s children face more stress than past generations. This has a lot to do with children’s social support system and their environment. Many children aren’t raised surrounded by both parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins like they were in past generations. The high incidents of both parents working, high divorce rates, step…

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Clint Dempsey and Mighty Kicks

What an awesome time for soccer in the US! Not only are we able to watch great World Cup match this summer, but Team USA is representing and playing well! I was honored to play alongside Clint Dempsey for two years when we were with the New England Revolution (of MLS). Although it was a…

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The Entrepreneur Mindset

The Entrepreneur Mindset While operating an expanding national franchise, I have had the opportunity to speak with many interested candidates. Throughout the qualification process I have noticed that a consistent factor between a Serious Candidate and a less serious candidate is their MINDSET. My goal of this letter is to shed some light on the…

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