Thursday, December 22, 2011

DIRECT Message from Santa and an adorable Christmas Card...

Hi Max!

I can't believe you got a personal message from Santa today! Check this OUT! --> This Message is for Max Maher, from Santa

Incredible!

Blessings,

Max's Dad (Michael)

P.S. By popular request, here is our Christmas Card! Merry Christmas!


Merry Christmas! It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year!


Hi Max!

Had to share these precious pics of you and your cousin Rylee! Christmas 2011 has been really, really special. 

Love you son. 

Blessings, 

Max's Dad (Michael)

P.S. Max and I laughed so hard at this --> Here is Buddy the Elf's reaction to Santa coming to town...

Saturday, December 10, 2011

A Great Week... Re-Defined!...

Hi Max!

No pictures on today's blog and soon you will know why. =0) Had an awakening about what makes a great week this week. 

On Wednesday, December 7, we celebrated the one-year anniversary of ((7L)) The Seven Levels of Communication: Go from Relationships to Referrals hitting the best-seller list - and unlike books that shoot in like a shooting star - on one day and gone a few days later - ((7L)) has been on the list for the entire year! An incredible accomplishment (especially for a self-published book sold entirely by word-of-mouth and referral) and worthy of celebrating. But this accomplishment was surpassed last night... by one you performed... 

I was reading in the room around the corner (we are staying at Richard and Gail Bass' beach house on Hutchinson Island, Florida). Hearing some clatter, I went to see how you were doing. Looking into the bathroom next to your room, I saw an incredible scene. Your white butt staring back at me! I said, "Max, what are you doing?!" You turned around and smiled at me. You said, "I went potty on my own and washed my hands all by myself!" I was almost speechless. My little boy was growing up! You had taken your pants down, pooped, moved the steps to get to the sink, turned on the water, gotten soap, washed your hands, and did everything but wipe yourself - ALL ON YOUR OWN! I was so proud. You had shot past potty-training to independence. What a great night! I had to tell Mommy! 

What a great week! Max, you topped off a wonderful week. Thank you!

Blessings, 

Max's Dad (Michael)

Saturday, November 26, 2011

11-26-11: Saturday is Son-Day... and Funday!

Hi Max!

Just had to comment on today! Today is Saturday, November 26, 2011. We moved our "Sunday is Son-Days" to Saturday for NFL Football Season and what a fun day we had today!

8:30 You came rushing out of your room looking for Buddy, our Elf on the Shelf. You finally found him. We had breakfast together - we both ate Blueberry Waffles. =0) I had coffee.
9:30 We played cars in your room. We laughed a lot here.
10:00 We watched the Backyardigans - Robot said, "Cheese." =0) We laughed a lot here.
10:30 We played trains - put together a whole new train track - new shape. Fun stuff. We laughed a lot here.
11:30 You ate a waffle. Then you ate a piece of pizza. I ate two pieces of Veggie Lover's pizza.
12:30 We played "I get you" haha! I chased you and tossed you around. We laughed a lot here.
1:30 We laid down for a nap. You wanted to sleep with your bean bag. After 30 minutes, I got up and cleaned my office. You were out cold! Sleeping like a baby. :)
3:00 You get up from your nap. I am working in my office and you, still a little groggy, hug my leg. I was like, "Aw, hey buddy."
4:00 We played lots and lots of ball with your Lightning McQueen ball and the orange ball. We laughed lots and lots.
5:00 Still playing ball. =0)
5:30 We stop playing ball - reluctantly. Mommy wanted you to settle down for dinner. :) We laughed a lot.
5:45 We played the TeleTubbies Matching Game on the table while Mom made dinner. You did INCREDIBLE. You matched them by the shape of the piece first and then did great remembering later.
6:00 Dinner - Spaghetti-O's and grilled cheese sandwiches for all of us!
6:45 Off to Home Depot for you and Mom. I stayed home to clean my office - and write this blog post! =0)

Just had to share. It was a fantastic day and you are so much fun to play with all day!

Love you!

Blessings, 


Max's Dad (Michael)

Sunday, November 20, 2011

Getting a Boy to Sit Still...

Hi Max!

We took your 3-year-old photos a couple of weeks ago. Like the boy that you are - you wanted to play, goof, and run around. Anything but sit down and pose for photos. The photographer did a fantastic job and I'm looking forward to posting those...

But I had to post this. This was taken yesterday in Branson, MO. You are posing with your cousin Rylee - and I do mean posing. This is a terrific picture overall, but I am even more impressed at your big smile and perfect posture! What a great picture!

Guess I know what I'll be posting on my Facebook page for Christmas! What a great photo!


Love you!

Blessings,

Max's Dad (Michael)

Sunday, October 23, 2011

Golly Gee. Big Guy's 3. Mickey. Mouse. Bouncy. House.

Hi Max!

Sun's Gold. Sunday's Started. 3-year-old's Birthday Party. Mickey. Mouse. Bouncy. House.


Everything was Mickey Mouse themed for this year's Big 3!


Grandmas, Grandpa, Great Grandma, Great Grandpa. Cousins. Aunts. Great-Aunts. Great-Uncles. Classmates. Classmates' Parents.


Blew all three candles out with ease.


For all the stress, strain, and worries about preparation, so many people, and weather... it was a day full of smiles.

Happy 3rd my little man!

Love you!

Blessings,

Max's Dad (Michael)

Sunday, October 16, 2011

September 2011 in Pictorial...

Hi Max!


You get a haircut - you love your spiky hair. :)


Man oh man, you love cars and trucks, trains and planes. :) You also love Lightning McQueen and Mickey Mouse (Mickey has just overtaking Lightining McQueen as your favorite). Wait until you see the photos of your clubhouse! :)


Aww, :) You and cousin Rylee sleeping peacefully. You wouldn't believe that 10 minutes earlier it was utter and noisy chaos. :) Or maybe you would...


Policeman puts you on your motorcycle. Hopefully last time you will be on a motorcycle. :) You loved turning on the lights and sounding the siren.

Another high-adventure month for you. You also flew to Orlando with us to give you 17 flights before the age of 3! We will have a photo album of the Disney trip soon. We'll share it here at Max & Me of course.

Blessings,

Max's Dad (Michael)

Wednesday, September 7, 2011

Quote I had to share...


Hi Max!

Making the decision to have a child is momentous. It is to decide forever to have your heart go walking around outside your body. ~Elizabeth Stone

You are my heart walking around outside my body.

Love you.

Blessings,

Max's Dad (Michael)

Tuesday, September 6, 2011

Hi Max!

What a great Labor Day Weekend we had!

I got home from Birmingham on Saturday mid-day and we went to play in the bouncy-houses restaurant (as you like to call it) at The Great Mall.

Sunday, we had the VFW Picnic at Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park at 87th and Lackman. Ate some lunch and then played on the new playground set and LOVED the astroturf and padded FieldTurf at the playground. We walked on the trails to the creek and bridge.

On Monday, we topped our great weekend off with a trip to the Zoo! We went two years ago, but all you did was sleep then. This time, you (WE) had a ball. You loved the polar bear as he did his somersaults and was very active. You said the monkeys were your favorite and you really liked the train ride - wow you love trains. :) We rode the train, the tram, the boat, and my favorite was the African Sky Lift that was a ski lift of sorts that took us over the wild animals of Africa - cheetahs, elands, african birds, ostriches (Australia section), Zebra, antelope, and we even peeked a lion while going across the zoo on the lift. It was a terrific ride! We zoomed right through your nap time thought and by 4 you were just about out on your feet. You fell asleep in the car on the way home and I couldn't help but reflect on how great the weekend was for us as a family.

Weather was terrific, relaxation was at a 9 or 10 level with no or little client expectations, and we really got some true quality time together. Sometimes I wonder if you realize how great you have it right now (you've been on 15 airplane rides (most of them first class or business class), two loving parents who have the time to spend with you and a plan to keep it that way, no other siblings, a great house, lots of toys, a great school, and lots of love around you) and I realize that it is me that has it great right now for having you in my life. Thank you for letting me live again through your eyes as you discover life. It's a blessing. You're a blessing.

Blessings,

Max's Dad (Michael)

P.S. Pictures to be uploaded later. Have to figure out which ones to post - took MANY!

Friday, August 26, 2011

Our trip to Disney...

Hi Max!

The terrible twos evolve into the trying threes don't they? :) Max's favorite word of the week was "No!" With that being said (often :), Max had a terrific time meeting his favorite Disney characters. We have the most incredible book of pictures with signatures! Also, my next post will be a few photos from our trip! We are watching Hurricane Irene tear up the east coast of the United States on television in preparation for leaving tomorrow.

Really... if I had to boil the week down to one lesson it is one that I know well and always need to be reminded of: LOVE is spelled TIME to a child.

Blessings,

Max's Dad (Michael)

Thursday, August 18, 2011

Resilience... From Enabling to Empowering...

Hi Max!

Amy Stoehr sends out a motivational e-mail occasionally and I really enjoyed her words today and I can't wait for you to reflect on this later. You'll maybe understand better why I push you at times to do things on your own, to get back up, to not quit... I don't want to enable you. I want to empower you. Here's what she wrote...

"I read a blog today about teaching your kids resilience. Essentially, the message was, don't prevent your kids from falling down. Instead, teach them how to get back up and continue on.

Two memories came to mind - the first, a time six years ago when I was out on roller skates (that's right, skates, not blades) and I completely "yard saled" in front of my house. I got up, came in the house, picked as much asphalt as I could out of my knee, and... here's the awareness: never roller skated again. In fact, I sold the skates at a garage sale.

The second time was two years ago when I slipped on ice at a retreat and suffered a spiral break of my distal fibula. My first bone break, I thought it was just a sprained ankle. Long story short I spent eight weeks in a cast. Instead of giving up, though, I greeted the incident with optimism and continued on. I rented a "rollabout" because I had to be non-weight-bearing for four of those eight weeks.

When you fall down, in business and in life, how do you respond? Do you "sell the skates" and walk away? Or do you get back up, and find a new way of going?

Make it your best day yet!

Amy Stoehr"


I'm here to help you get back up, persevere, and go farther. I love you and will always support you, lift you, inspire you, motivate you... I'm here for you, not to do it for you, but to help you do what you do.

Blessings,

Max's Dad (Michael)

Wednesday, August 17, 2011

ALL DAY... ALMOST... :)

Hi Max!

Here was my message to my FB friends tonight: "We were celebrating Max Maher's first full day wearing big-boy pants without an accident. We were jumping around, dancing, yelling and screaming, having a great time and then, as if to help us appreciate the moment... a little puddle forms on the floor below him. +m2 P.S. We moved a little and kept dancing. I think I might have tickled him too much."

You were so close! You're getting there buddy - and I love you!

Blessings,

Max's Dad (Michael)

Saturday, July 30, 2011

A message from Kevin Eastman....

Hi Max!

Your mom and I are at the James Malinchak Big Money Speaker in Las Vegas and you are playing with Grandpa and Grandma Soetaert! Guest speaker Kevin Eastman of the Boston Celtics just outlined a great Vision Exercise.

1) Take a moment to write down all the things you think it takes to be a success.
2) Take a moment to write down what it takes to be a success in what you do as a profession (in case they choose your profession).
3) Put a copy in your desk and give a copy to your spouse. The copy in your desk will be given to the child when "they are ready".

I really see this blog as this letter. I know you will read all of it (I would read everything my dad wrote). As this grows, I hope it becomes a place for you to go - when you are down, when you are lonely, when you are excited, when you are celebrating, when we are apart - whenever you want. Just know that I love you and think about you all the time. You're the best. You're the greatest. You're Max.

Blessings,

Max's Dad (Michael)

Wednesday, July 27, 2011

I. Miss. You...

Hi Max!

I've been on the road a lot lately. I just wanted to let you know I love you and I'm really missing you right now. I miss "We made it" and "bubble guppies" and "Daddy, will you get me?" and "Played with Brenna at school" and "Cars and trucks and trucks and cars"... really miss you. And I have to wait 5 more days to see you! Crushing...

Love you.

Blessings,

Max's Dad (Michael)

Monday, July 18, 2011

Father Forgets... by W. Livingston Larned

Hi Max!

Had to share this story with you. It is written by W. Livingston Larned and is re-told in How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie (one of the top business books of all time - you should read it later - when you can read. :)

"Listen, son: I am saying this as you lie aslepp, one little paw crumpled under your cheek and the blond curls stickily wet on your damp firehead. I have stoen into your room alone. Just a few minues ago, as I sat reading my paper in the library, a stifling wave of remorse swept over me. Guiltily I came to your bedside.

There are things I was thinking, son: I had been cross to you. I scoleded you as you were dressing for school because you gave your face merely a dab with a towel. I tool you to task for not cleaning your shoes. I called out angrily when you threw some of your things on the floor.

At breakfast I found fault, too. You spilled things. You gulped down your food. You put your elbows on the table. You spread butter too thick on your bread. And as you started off to play and I made for my train, you turned and waved a hand and called, "Goodbye, Daddy!" and I frowned, and said in reply, "Hold your shoulders back!"

Then it began all over again in the late afternoon. As I came up the road I spied you, down on your knees, playing marbles. There were hles in your stockings. I humiliiated you beffore your friends by marching you ahead of me to the house. Stockings were expensive - and if you had to buy them you would be more careful! Imagine that, son, from a father!

Do you remember, later, when I was reading the library, how you came in timidly, with a sort of hurt look in your eyes? When I glanced up over my paper, impatient at the interruption, you hestiated at the door. "What is it you want?" I snapped.

You said nothing, but ran across in one tempestuous plunge, and threw your arms around my neck and kissed me, and your small arms tightened with an affection that God had set blooming in your heart and which even neglect could not wither. And then you were gone, pattering up the stairs.

Well, son, it was shortly afterwards that my paper slipped from my hands and a terrible sickening fear came over me. What has habit been doing to me? The habit of finding fault, of reprimanding - this was my reward to you for being a boy? It was not that I did not love you; it was that I expected too much of youth. I was measuring you by the yardstick of my own years.

And there was so much that was good and fine and true in your character. The little heart of you was as big as the dawn itself over the wide hills. This was shown by your spontaneous impulse to rush in and kiss me good night. Nothing else matters tonight, son. I have come to your bedside in the darkness, and I have knelt there, ashamed!

It is a feeble atonement; I know you would not understand these things if I told them to you during your waking hours. But tomorrow I will be a real daddy! I whill chum with you, and suffer when you suffer, and laugh when you laugh. I will bite my tongue when impatient words come. I will keep saying as if it were a ritual: "He is nothing but a boy - a little boy!"

I am afraid I have visualized you as a man. Yet as I see you now, son, crumped and weary in your cot, I see that you are atill a baby. Yesterday you were in your mother's arms, your head on her shoulder. I have asked too much, too much."


Had to share that with you. There are times when I get caught up in my drive to help millions when I need to stop, take a second, and help my #1 client, my #1 person, YOU! You mean the world to me and I'm hoping you never listen to "Cats in the Cradle" and think of me negatively :). I'll always be there for you - even when I am out of town.

Trust me. Love you.

Blessings,

Michael

Monday, July 11, 2011

Like a Max to Water...

Hi Max!

Your first day of Swimming Lessons tonight - and... YOU. WERE. INCREDIBLE! You took to the water like a fish. You were jumping, floating, and splashing like a pro. The teacher couldn't quit remarking about how well you were doing. At the end she said, "Well, we just covered all five of the sessions in tonight's session, so we are going to have go to Plan B for the rest of the week." How cool is that?! I'll get pictures tomorrow, but had to comment on your "above-average" love for water - you were literally dog paddling at one point - YOU ARE 2.5 years old! That's impressive. Another day, another big smile on my face caused by you. :) So proud. :)

Blessings,

Max's Dad (Michael)

P.s. We need to take a Styrofoam pad so you can swim - you are SO advanced it is amazing. Awesome. :)

Saturday, July 9, 2011

This week in pics...



Hi Max! Here are a few of the pictures from this week - we're building a Clubhouse and you are starting to fit into a shirt that once was WAY too big. :)

Wednesday, July 6, 2011

How a Walk to School Can Change Everything...

Hi Max!

I am a ritualized, structured, and systematized person and I have my Sunday Night, Nightly, Pre-Leave, and Morning Rituals Click here for video of The Four Enriching Rituals. As part of the Morning Ritual, I've made a change that has many benefits.

Some questions I get about time blocking, time management, and balance evolve around doing this versus that. Family vs. Work, Family vs. Working out, TV vs. working out, social media time vs. television, etc. One of the ways to work towards a more balanced and harmonious lifestyle is to combine some of the spokes of your life wheel (instead of looking at them as mutually exclusive). The biggest one I hear is physical activity or working out. There are many ways to combine working out with other activities: while watching your favorite show, use the elliptical or a treadmill - and you can get those cheap; while working and doing phone calls, walk on a treadmill - we are seeing more of this, for family time, work out with the family. The last one is what I've started doing.

Each morning instead of dropping you off at school (by car), we are walking to school together. It's 2 miles round-trip and is a great way to start the day for me. We chat and talk about the day. It's very focused (no computer or phone) family time but also incorporates a brisk walk/physical activity. I'm glad I've been doing this. The results are already coming in...

I'm more alert during the day. I am not worried about spending time with my family. It's happened. Walking before eating burns more calories and walking in the morning burns calories throughout the day. It's an easy lifestyle change that could be done every day without adding time to my day. Walking 2 miles every morning 5 days per week is a great activity in itself. Add pushing a stroller and hearing your priceless words like, "Here comes a Mustang" like you said this morning and you have a welcome addition to the Morning Ritual.

I get to be there for the "Quantum Leap" moments. Like this morning, you said the ABC's all the way through, named every car color perfectly, and the "Here Comes a Mustang" comment was truly special. You saw the cars coming from all the way at the entrance of our community and before I even saw it you said out of the blue, "Here comes a Mustang." Sure enough, here comes a maroon Mustang down the road. Made me laugh out loud.

You are SuperSmart! :)

Love you!

Blessings,

Max's Dad (Michael)

Saturday, July 2, 2011

Happy 4th Message to my Friends...

Hi Max!

A message I wrote to my Friends on Facebook today and I want you to hear it. Here's to you always be changing, improving, and freeing yourself from the current normal!

"NOW is the time to declare YOUR independence from the bad habits & thoughts that prison you. NOW, you declare YOUR independence from distractions, inactivity, toxic people, & unstructured time. Quit taxing your soul by doing these things you hate or these things that make you play small! Rise Up! Sign YOUR Declaration of Independence! FREE yourself from the chains of self-limiting beliefs and behaviors! Be FREE! +m2"

Blessings,

Max's Dad (Michael)

Note I Wrote... Happy 4th and It's Half-time...

Hi Max!

As you know, I love my Fanpage at www.Facebook.com/SevenLevels. It's not that I love my Fanpage as such, but love the people I get to "hang out" with there. The conversations inspire me daily. So when I wrote this note for the 4th of July weekend, I got a great response. Better than anticipated. It was off-the-cuff, from-the-heart, and unedited. But passion and conviction will always overcome editing and grammatically-correct sentences. Thought I'd share what you're old dad wrote. :)

Here it is:

Hi!

Just wanted to wish you and your family a wonderful Holiday weekend! Hope the 4th of July Weekend is filled with festivites, fun, and family for you. Safe travels as well.

Blessings,

Michael

P.S. This time of year reminds me of my coaching days. "What is the least important score in sports?" I would say in the locker room. "Half-time," my team would respond. So true, nobody checks the half-time score in the paper the next morning. No, they look at the final score. They look to see who won or lost. They don't give awards, recognition, or trophies for half-time scores. There's never been a champion crowned at half-time.

We've been down 21-13 and we've been up 37-7 at half-time and my first words are the same. I've seen big leads lost and setbacks become comebacks. No matter how the first half of your year has gone - good, average, or bad... it is half-time. Now is the time to FINISH STRONG! Which is fine and well... finish strong is a great campaign slogan, rallying cry, and short movie at Simple Truths (http://www.finishstrongmovie.com/), but what does it mean to "finish strong?" The way to finish strong is execution.

Do you know why sports teams have plays and a playbook? Someone somewhere along the way figured out that with plays and a playbook a less-talented team could beat a more-talented team. That if you had a game plan and executed it well, you could beat those who didn't. Same is true in business as you know. You know what to do. Say it to yourself, "I know what to do." Because you do. You know what you need to do on a daily business to be healthier, to be more productive, and to earn more income. You do. The only difference between sitting in the seat you are now and sitting in the seat you want is one word - EXECUTION.

Execute the game plan. Instead of knowing you need to pick up the phone, pick up the phone. Instead of knowing you need to meet with people, go out and do it. Face-to-face, belly-to-belly, and in-person is how business gets done. Perhaps electronic communication has taken you off course the first half. That's okay. It happens. Now, get back on course, do what you know you know to do.

Execute to Finish Strong. It's Half-time and you've got a second half to win.

Lou Holtz said, "How you respond to the challenge in the second half will determine what you become after the game... whether you are a winner or loser."

Here's to wishing you the best second half of the year you've ever had. +m2"

Max, hope you enjoyed that. Don't know if I'll ever coach you - hope I get to one day - but this is a look back to those days. :)

Blessings,

Max's Dad (Michael)

P.S. While I was writing this, you came downstairs and gave me a hug. Awesome. Love you. :)

Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Laugh of the Day... Squirrel!

Hi Max!

Had to share this strand of postings from a friend of mine's FB page... he broke a mug and here are his friends' thoughts on how to "cover it up" (Look at Carole and Debbie's):

Chris Brown
the unforgivable - i broke a co-workers coffee cup. what should I do?
about an hour ago · Like ·
Cari Knapp likes this.

Nancy Rein Larson If you need to ask FB this question you got serious issues.
about an hour ago · Like

Chris Brown LOL - issues aside [i concede that point] it is not FB i am asking, it is the people and friends that I connect with here, Nancy. but... you knew that, didn't you. =0) I am looking for 1. creative, 2. sarcastic, or 3. heart warming ideas...
about an hour ago · Like

Carole Sanek male or female?
about an hour ago · Like

Chris Brown uh- my assistant's, Val
about an hour ago · Like

Nancy Rein Larson You be a man. Walk up to her tell her I'm sorry I broke your coffee mug. I'll buy you a new one by lunch time. Any particular color? Geez what was so difficult with that????
about an hour ago · Like

Viki Hettinger It could be a long day!
about an hour ago · Like

Carole Sanek Sarcastic? and she is your assistant NOT!!!! Get creative quickly - open a window, draw little squirrel footprints where the coffee cup was, cut a few strands of hair (cut them short) say you grabbed the little b*st*rd by the tail after you found the evidence
about an hour ago · Like · 5 people

Jen Machalicek A new mug with a few Starbuck's cards tucked inside.
about an hour ago · Like · 2 people

Connie Simon She knows you're sorry from the look on your face. Now just tell. Don't get just any cup. Find a special one for her.
about an hour ago · Like

Nancy Rein Larson Unless it's from the Ming dynasty then you are screwed. Take a second mortgage on your house for that replacement!
about an hour ago · Like

Chris Brown OMG- you guys are awesome. keep 'em coming...
about an hour ago · Like

Val Gonzalez Mendoza Simple... Crate & barrel by millennia mall....lol just kidding !
about an hour ago · Like

Val Gonzalez Mendoza My favorite ???? Jen's !!!!!!! :))))))))
about an hour ago · Like

Chris Brown I like Carole's idea.... seeking squirrel fur as we speak...
about an hour ago · Like · 1 person

Carole Sanek thank you Chris Brown I can get very creative when I need to be
about an hour ago · Like

Kathi Adkins Super Glue back together and sheepishly hand it back to her
about an hour ago · Like · 1 person

Rob Arnold I like Jen's answer. Going to have to kiss up to her today.
55 minutes ago · Like · 1 person

Kathryn Llamas Cardinal punishment!....Nothing but a year's worth of Starbucks coffee would suffice....
54 minutes ago · Like · 2 people

Dawn Marie Sypniewski Rodriguez Give her the day off to grieve......=)
you can also go to a craft store like Michaels or Jo Ann's, they have coffee mugs you can buy and design them yourself... you can personalize it however you want just for her!!!!
49 minutes ago · Like · 1 person

Chris Brown ‎Kathryn Llamas - i dont know if i could afford that!
48 minutes ago · Like

Chris Brown ‎Dawn - that is a cool idea. i am afraid that it would result in a blank white mug. i am not that creative when it comes to that stuff... =0(
47 minutes ago · Like

Dawn Marie Sypniewski Rodriguez Time to get creative!!!!! Lol....=)
42 minutes ago · Like

Mike Jones Put it in the garbage and they'll think it's missing! C'mon all of you know that's what you were thinking... you just didn't have the guts to say it :)
32 minutes ago · Like · 1 person

Debbie Smith Seiber I like the squirrel idea however, you need a video to accompany the story. Have a coworker video it from their phone... Buy a toy squirrel, show you wrestling with the squirrel for the mug (explains the left squirrel fur), as the mug is falling; you are falling to the ground to catch the mug (reenact this in slow motion.. Sound as well), the squirrel pushes you just as you are catching it, mug falls to the ground.. crashes & breaks, squirrel jumps up on window sill turns back to give you that " squirrelly little look", then takes off for another office building to never be found. That should do it!
22 minutes ago · Like

And of course, here is Val's next coffee mug... wait for it...


Haha! Love it!

Have a great day at "school" today! Love you.

Blessings,

Max's Dad (Michael)

Friday, June 24, 2011

We're about ready for affirmations with you, Max...

Hi Max!

Wanted to share this video with you because I am such a believer in affirmations and I can't wait to share this with you when you can put them into play.

Here's the video: "Click here!"

Blessings,

Max's Dad (Michael)

Monday, June 20, 2011

Just had to upload this photo from Festival of the Trails! This is YOU!...

Hi Max!

If I had to pick a pic for your demeanor, this would be it. You are ALWAYS so dang happy! :) This picture instantly brings a smile to my face, just like thinking about you does. Great photo and you are really in your element going down the "bouncy house slide".

Blessings,

Max's Dad (Michael)

Sunday, June 19, 2011

Happy Fathers Day!

Hi Max!

Thank you for surprising me with breakfast in bed and the awesome picture book today for Fathers Day! You're first book! The day is only halfway done and I'm looking forward to the second half! :). Love you.

Blessings!

Max's Dad (Michael)

Saturday, June 18, 2011

06-18-11: Serving Leads to Deserving...

Hi Max!

Was just thinking about you today and was compelled to share this message with you:

Servlng leads to deserving. I've been credited with that quote and if I'd love to have one preceding my name, this would be one. There are so many strengths to leading with serving.

1) Serving leads to deserving. As you increasingly help others, your capacity and ability to help grows - like a muscle - the more you work it, the stronger it gets. You meet people who can help more people better and faster and solve their problems and challenges faster and at a higher level. Your network of helpers (I call this your Team) gets larger, stronger, better, and more precise. Rather than having a few tools in your tool chest, you have an arsenal of tools that work in many places.

2) Serving leads to deserving. Serving people and "serving the time" leads to a feeling of deserving the rewards. When Vijay Singh knocked Tiger Woods off the perch of the #1 Ranking of PGA Tour golfers, he had hit 1000 balls per day every day. He practiced daily and pursued the endeavor with full focus and intensity. The result: he knocked what many consider the greatest golfer of our time off the #1 spot*. When asked how he did it, Singh responded, "I hit 1000 balls per day every day... I worked harder than anybody else. I deserve #1." When you serve, you deserve. Many people don't get referrals in business because they don't feel like they deserve the referrals. "I'm not good enough. I don't work hard enough. I don't have the experience/I am new. I am part-time. I don't have a team. I don't deserve this." are all comments that equate to excuses. When you work hard, you feel you deserve the rewards. When you serve many people, you feel you deserve the business and the referrals. (*By the way, read this article and look at the quotes about Vijay Singh on his way to #1. Do you see some correlations to the Generosity Generation here? Click here)

3) Serving leads to deserving. As you serve more people, your self-esteem rises. Dr. Karl Menninger was asked, "What should a person do if he felt a 'nervous breakdown' coming on?" He said: "Lock up your house, go across the railroad tracks, find someone in need, and do something for them." Not just those at the desperate end of the spectrum can benefit from helping others. We find our own value in helping others. We help a person and it feels good. We find that we are useful. We help another and we feel even better and we find that we are even more useful. Continue to give and help, and you find your usefulness to the world almost immeasurable. Our value to the world is determined by our value to the people of the world. The Law of Compensation says the greater our value to the world, the higher our compensation (the more the world will pay us for our help). Dave Ramsey, in his study of billionaires, found two common characteristics of these highest of the high earners - they were consistent (the tortoise always wins) and they were givers. Do you think they were givers first or billionaires?

There are many more reasons "Serving Leads to Deserving", but these are three of the most important. Many of the people I speak to are sales people and they need to take this to heart - after all, the root word for "to sell" is "sellan" which means "to give" or "to serve" (read that in The Go-Giver).

Max, you are a natural-born server. I have seen you help your classmates, your mother, me, and others without even knowing that what you were doing is out of the ordinary. You get it and I love that about you. As you get older, I hope this talent takes you far and my bits of what I've learned over time helps you hone that talent.

Blessings!

Max's Dad (Michael)

P.S. Dr. Karl Meninger has some of my favorite quotes:

On love
"Love cures people - both the ones who give it and the ones who receive it."

On love II
"Love is a medicine for the sickness of the world; a prescription often given, too rarely taken."

On love III
"One does not fall into love; one grows into love, and love grows in him."

Tuesday, June 14, 2011

Had to share... Family + Festival = FUN!

Hi Max!

Had to share this from this weekend! :) We had some fun at the Festival of Trails in Gardner, KS. Too funny! Goofy times! It was a Happy Birthday for me - lots of laughter.

Click on the picture to see a larger image.

Blessings,

Max's Dad (Michael)

Saturday, June 11, 2011

Happy Birthday... to me! :) The Horoscope & a #1...

Hi Max!

You are sleeping now. It is 11:23 p.m. on Saturday, June 11, 2011. Today happens to also be my Birthday. And a great one it has turned out to be.

First, last night at 6:10 p.m. (7L) The Seven Levels of Communication hit #1 in the Real Estate category on Amazon.com. Your daddy has written a #1 National Best-seller! As you may or may not "be conscious" of, I have said an affirmation for 3 years now: "I am a #1 National Best-selling Author!" I have said it over 1000 times in the morning. And even through best-seller status and the continued sales, I kept the #1 as part of the affirmation - not knowing the difficulty, luck, and work it would take to be #1. The amazing thing is this feeling of a large weight being lifted off my mind. Now, I can replace that giant thought, that DREAM with another BIGGER DREAM. Hmmm. What should my new affirmation be?

I have to share this with you. I am not a huge Horoscope person, but I always read it on my Birthday - you know, just to see how my year will go. :) Well, today's stopped me in my tracks. Wait until you read this! (And yes, I read it to you this morning, but at 2.5 you don't appreciate it now as much as you will later). Here it is:

"HAPPY BIRTHDAY! June 11, 2011 ***** Dynamic Day: This year, call on your creativity with children and romance. You will enjoy yourself more, as will those around you. Funnel some of this fun imagination into your daily life. If you are bored, do whatever you need to do to revitalize your days. You could change the hours you work and create a new feeling. SCORPIO always adds a practical element to your life."

Okay... WHOA! Did you notice anything about that paragraph? How about that last sentence? Out of all the signs, this said one sign: SCORPIO... SCORPIO is YOUR SIGN! Wow! Just an amazing horoscope because this is going to be an incredible year - I can feel it. Two phrases come to mind as I think about 6-11-11 to 6-11-12: "Critical Mass" and "Going Global". I don't know why, but those keep coming up and pop into my mind at absurd times. But what that horoscope AND this post will do is re-focus my mind to what is most important: you, family, fun, recreation, and time to stop and smell the roses.

We went to the Festival of the Trails today in Gardner and had a blast. Can't wait to share those pictures! Next time...

Blessings,

Max's Dad (Michael)

Wednesday, June 1, 2011

05-28&29-11 Sunday is Son-Day... THE TRAIN!

Hi Max!

This weekend was Memorial Day Weekend and as always, we had the Maher Family Reunion in Independence. Any doubts as to how good your memory is were erased when you instantly asked if we were going to ride the train again. Sheri and I had a big laugh. Then, for the next 3 hours, you said, "Ride the train? Ride the train?" It was cute the first time, not so cute the next 900 times. :)

As we turned into the Independence (KS) Park, the first thing you saw was the REAL train that is parked at the Park for people to climb on and see a train up close. Nevermind the water slides, full-size fighter jet, dinosaur slides, pool, putt-putt golf center, and other distractions (er, I mean attractions). :) You were all about the trains. But alas... a hitch in our plans... the train that goes around the park was DOWN! Battery dead and no driver according to the rumors! I thought, "Oh boy."

You took the news a lot better than I thought. We sat down to eat and you were pretty focused on making a mess - and eating some. After lunch, you played trucks and cars with the other kids. Your big dump truck was a hit and besides fitting dirt and branches was the right height for you to run and push it - or is that push it and run? :) You were momentarily distracted. We ate, talked to relatives (relatives who really love YOU: Great-Aunt Linda, Great-Uncle Dan, Great-Uncle Jim, Great-Grandma Maher (still sharp as a tack), Taina, Nancy, Teresa, Paula, Uncle Rob, Aunt Lisa, Aunt Susan, Uncle Steve, Uncle Brian, Grandma Maher, and cousins Allie, Brady, Luke, Marissa, and Daniel). It was a great reunion - the most I've seen at a reunion.

You and I happened to be right next to each other when we heard, "WOO WOOOOOOO!" The train's whistle had blown and it was up and running again! Knowing that it could be one of only a few circles the train would make, I grabbed you and we made our way to the train. Fifty cents later (yes 50 cents) you and I had our tickets and were in line. They opened to gate, we went towards the front (same seat as last year?), and before we knew it, we were yelling, "All Aboard!" and we were riding THE TRAIN!

You loved it! We talked about the pool, the slides, the water, the jet, the child statues in the middle of the park, the dinosaur, the carousel, the giant slides, and the putt-putt golf center. It was like you were seeing them for the first time (again). It was almost like your entire focus was the train and now that you had achieved your goal of riding the train, the entire park came into view.

We waved at mommy and she took the photos. The conductor was kind enough to go around twice and we saw things we missed the first time around (can't look to both sides at the same time! :) It was great to ride the train with you. Makes me look forward to next year's Maher Family Reunion at Independence Park.

Blessings,

Max's Dad (Michael)

P.S. We also stopped by a carnival and had some more fun! Photos -->

Saturday, May 21, 2011

Never Again...

Hi Max!

Well, you, mommy, and I just landed last night after our trip to Atlanta for GenGenAtlanta (events for the Generosity Generation)! You chose our little week to want to get up at night - and I understand, there were a lot of differences and changes thrown at you at once and mommy and daddy were pretty stressed with everything to do to get ready. Our positive? We care. Our problem? We care. :) We want to provide the Ultimate Learning Experience for the attendees and sometimes pushing to such high standards early can make for some stress behind the scenes and then of course getting only 2 to 4 hours or sleep at night compounds the effect of the overwhelmed feeling.

At the end of the trip, I'm like, "never again, never again." Never again can I take you to a GenGen event because I'm worried about you and I'm worried about the attendees (along with the wonderful people who help us put the event together). Flying is stressful any way, moreso with you. Sleeping is tough, just eating out adds to the hassle. Never again...

But in hearing the "End of the World" talk (a group has predicted the world to end at 6:20 p.m. Eastern (5:20 Central) today May 21, 2011) and in reflection of the trip, I really like you being there and I like spending the time with you. And of course, you had a secret message for me this morning (more on that later)... Perhaps the answer isn't "never again," but "how can we make this work?"

We could easily pack your meals so that you have those at your regularly scheduled time - you were so out of whack with eating times in Atlanta that of course you were out of whack with sleeping.

Number 1) We need to keep your schedule. I'm such a believer in systems I realize the power of this for you. Solution: pack your meals rather than trying to hunt down a restaurant and then getting you food.

Number 2) We could make one of our first action items - get milk. We would need to proactively ask for a room with a refrigerator for you (and perhaps one with a microwave). One of our biggest frustrations was running out of milk at night. Without milk, you struggled to sleep and yes, I could write for an hour on how we need to eventually break this habit, but sometimes you just have to go with the now over the future (milk now, work on habit later). And having a refrigerator in your room flows into Number 3.

Number 3) Have separate rooms at least the night before I speak. I need to make sure I get my sleep. Sleep-deprivation never made a good speaker - and of course you know me, I want to MASTER speaking and teaching to help others MASTER learning. With separate rooms, at least for that one night, there isn't the HUGE frustration that comes with you perhaps keeping me up all night like Atlanta.

Doing these items may cost us $100 - $400 more for the trip, but that is a fair trade for having you there. Because I love you. I'm sure the trip was as frustrating for you as it was for me. You like to make mommy and daddy happy just like we want you to be happy.

This morning you crawled in bed (note that you just had a regular 8 hours of sleep in your normal "Max's bed") and said, "Daddy, I love you." I'm almost tearing up just typing this with the memory of that! I instantly thought, "Okay, I forgive you. All is forgiven" and it isn't "just shut down the problem" it is "solve the problem". So once again, I learn a very valuable lesson from you.

Can't wait for GenGenNewEngland on June 15 with our new "system" to see how well we do with having you on our trips! We'll see... regardless, we'll learn something from it... AND I'll learn something from you.

Blessings,

Max's Dad (Michael)

Friday, April 22, 2011

Had to share this Facebook strand from today...

Hi Max!

Started a strand on Facebook today and my answer to my own question surprised me a little bit. Surprised me and compelled me to post this here:

The Seven Levels of Communication: Go from Relationships to Referrals (Michael)
"For you parents, if you had an hour with your child and you weren't sure if you'd ever see them again, what would your advice to them be? What would you say? Write it in the comments below and then you know what I'm going to ask you to do right? Share it with them - if they aren't available, e-mail them, write them, or blog it to them. It's time it was said. Share. Your. Wisdom. +m2"
10 hours ago · Like ·
3 people like this.

The Seven Levels of Communication: Go from Relationships to Referrals "Max, this is dad. First, I love you. I love you more than anything in the world and when I see you, hug you, and high-five you, the entire world melts right away. You mean everything to me. My job has been to send you off to the world a loving, caring, helpful, and productive person and it is so beautiful to see that happen. I'm so proud of you. I'll always be there for you - watching over you, cheering you on, and sometimes prodding you along. My words today are: read the Bible. That's my bit of advice. Within its contents you will learn about love, people, trust, right, and wrong. If I could have written a guidebook, this would be it - and its written by a far better author than me. Follow its lessons and live its intentions. You will be fine. You are the best. You are the greatest. Love you, Dad. +m2"
10 hours ago · Like · 3 people
The Seven Levels of Communication: Go from Relationships to Referrals Truthfully, my answer surprised me a little as well. It just came out of my fingers as I was typing. I was like, "that would be my advice?" and I was compelled to share it even though I knew it would probably make some cringe, others gripe, and others unlike this page. That's okay. I am very open to people - I do not judge. I enjoy my Jewish, Arab, Chinese, Japanese, and Indian friends and have gotten lots of great ideas from our conversations. What I gave was my advice to my child. Your answer may, and very likely will, be different. It is what it is. I am what I am. I'd love to see you share what you would tell them. Of course, I'd love even more to see you share WITH THEM what you would tell them. Sorry such a long strand today... but I was compelled to share. +m2
10 hours ago · Like · 2 people

Jay Pierce Wow, can I just copy what you wrote and say the same to my son? That was awesome!
9 hours ago · Like · 1 person

The Seven Levels of Communication: Go from Relationships to Referrals Absolutely Jay - tweak it to your taste. Thank you! +m2
9 hours ago · Like

Andrea Boeh-Sheridan All the lyrics from "I hope you dance". Ava Grace, you will always be my greatest joy.
9 hours ago · Unlike · 1 person

The Seven Levels of Communication: Go from Relationships to Referrals http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RV-Z1YwaOiw <-- for those who want to see what Andrea is talking about - love it! +m2
9 hours ago · Like

Jennifer Goodfriend-Irvin I need to do this, blog, or write to my children. It is heavy on my heart right now, thanks for the "push" to share with them. Lately my Oldest daughter, who is 12 has been on my mind. Boys, and school, and attitude and fashion, braces, clothes, are all sooo important right now. I want to share with her that although the people she is "friends" with right now may make comments to her about acne, or her clothes, or who they are hanging out with, THESE "friends" dont defy you. Sure I have middle school friends I still talk to, but they aren't my best friends, or my confidants. These years are so hard for that age. I have told her this of course, but the ADVICE part is hard! They believe nothing we say is right, you know, cause I am just MOM! But a nice little letter to her will be nice. Life is hard, and if you can get thru the " Nay sayers".. you will succeed and you will be fine! :)
7 hours ago · Like

The Seven Levels of Communication: Go from Relationships to Referrals Love it Jennifer. The positive about writing it is that we can edit and make the wording "just right". Plus, they can read it over and over again and know that we love them. +m2
7 hours ago · Like

Michelle Florand Schwartz K & S: I love you. Make good choices, practice good hygiene and keep your kitchen clean. Always be honest with yourself and others, and if it is grey..stay away, because things are usually black and white. Be true to yourself and always be a person who gives and who is also able to receive. (They hear this from me on at least a weekly basis...and tell me the same things back.) Mom smiling!
4 hours ago · Like

The Seven Levels of Communication: Go from Relationships to Referrals Love it! Do you mind if I share that with Max? +m2
3 hours ago · Like · 1 person

Michelle Florand Schwartz not at all. My kids are 22 and 18. They are pretty cool young adults!
2 hours ago · Like

Justin Nielsen This is extremely timely for me. My Father passed away unexpectedly Wednesday. I know a lot about his life, but for years I have asked him to write it down. Too late now and I have many questions. I love what you wrote Michael and passion will guide the pen if you let it. I have decided to write in a book about me. You can buy good ones that prompt thoughts and ask questions.
21 minutes ago · Like

The Seven Levels of Communication: Go from Relationships to Referrals Sorry for your loss Justin. As someone who has lost a father, I understand but could never feel how you feel. Best wishes and prayers to you and your family. +m2
2 minutes ago · Like

Hope you enjoyed this conversation as much as I did. It was thought-provoking and interesting to me.

With Love and To Your Success,

Max's Dad (Michael)

Sunday, April 17, 2011

Sunday is Son-Day (on Saturday even!)...

Hi Max!

Yesterday was Saturday, but it was such a wonderful day! As a family, we went to Shawnee Mission Park. It was so nice - 68 degrees, sunny, and a light breeze. We drove around the park to see the water and the trees. Lots of people out and about!

We stopped at the same shelter at which we hold our July 4th Client Appreciation Parties. There is the huge jungle gym and slides. There is a giant sandbox. You were most interested in the creek that runs through the park. You are SO WATER-CRAZY! :) We threw twigs and branches in the water. We went down by the creek (in a very safe area) and put our hands in the water.

The weather was beautiful. We weren't in any hurry. We walked and played. It was just a really terrific afternoon. Had to share. You spell love like this... T I M E. Had a great time today!

With Love and To Your Success,

Max's Dad (Michael)

Wednesday, April 13, 2011

The Ride Home After the Game...

Hi Max!

I know I know... why so soon!? :) I was inspired to post a little faster than normal by Tammy Richards. Tammy and I graduated from Gardner-Edgerton High School together in 1987. She married my across-street neighbor Tim Richards, who also graduated with us. Great people and they are raising great kids. One of the reasons why is because of what they are reading - and then applying with their kids. Here's what Tammy recently wrote on Facebook:

The Ride Home
by Tammy Richards on Tuesday, April 12, 2011 at 10:16pm
This is part of the last chapter in a book I just finish. The book is written from a baseball perspective, but his advise goes for any sport or activity your kids are involved in. My timing in reading it could not have been better. In the last few weeks I have had a chance to ride home with the boys after baseball games. Some had gone well, and others not so much. I love baseball, so I always enjoy reliving parts of the game with them. I want my boys to remember the ride home as one of the best parts of the game. I felt it was worth sharing, so here you go. Enjoy!

Don't make the mistake of being a critic on the ride home, stewing over a loss or making too much of a victory. This is the time to let your kid know how great they are, regardless of the way they played. That they're valuable to you, and that you're glad they're your kid. It's a time of encouragement. A time to soak in your kid's kid-ness. I've said it all throughout this book, the time goes by too, too quickly to make it anything but fun. Your kids will figure out life along the way. They'll figure our the fundamentals of the game.

And one day, you'll drop that kid off somewhere- college, most likely- and then you'll ride home by yourself. And you'll miss those rides home, and you'll either wish you'd made the most of them, or you'll be thankful that you used that time wisely.

Every message your send is received. Make the ride home the best part of the game.
Bill Severns, Keepers of the Sandlot

Max, I thought you would love that and I look forward to sharing many rides home after games and celebrating your successes. After all love is spelled T I M E.

With Love and To Your Success,

Max's Dad (Michael)

Sunday, April 10, 2011

The Importance of Books... A Love of Reading!

Hi Max!

I want to tell you about a love of my life. A love of my life is reading books. I read three or four books per week. And I don't read them, I devour them. I respect them (still don't write in books to this day). I have so much respect for books. You can't always be with your friends - and I truly believe that the biggest influence in your life will be who you associate with and spend your time around. The next biggest influence will be the books you read. I love books - reading may be the most important talent you can learn in school. Reading and learning. Max, become a great reader.

Here is what one of the most influential leaders had to say about books and this is why we will also incorporate an allowance system similar to Mr. Maxwell. You are not necessarily named after John Maxwell, but it did have an influence on our choice of Maxwell over Max. Here is his video:

Reading is different then watching videos or watching TV. You can learn from those, but it doesn't take any imagination. Books allow you to fill in the gaps with your imagination. I've hard Imagi-Nation referred to as the most powerful nation in the world. Einstein said, "Imagination is more important than knowledge. For knowledge is limited to all we NOW know and understand, while imagination embraces the entire world and all there ever will be to know and understand." You get imagination from reading books - it triggers, hones, and broadens your imagination. Like a light into a prism that is splayed into all its glory - who knew that light was actually all colors - a book adds color to your imagination, thoughts, dreams, and ideas.

I love books. I love you. I can't wait to go over books that we are reading. I can't wait. Amazingly, you'll be reading soon - it wouldn't surprise me if you read at 4 years old. I won't push you, but you already have your daddy's love for books. Today, you played with your books like they were cars. You open them like you can read them. Great to share this love with you Max.

With Love and To Your Success,

Max's Dad (Michael)

Wednesday, March 30, 2011

The Different Ways to Say, "Daddy."

Hi Max!

Here is tonight's Facebook post and stream:
Michael J. Maher
Nothing like hearing Max say, "Daddy". :) Now he has different ways of saying it. Daddy! (=Hi!), Daddy (like C'mon Daddy!), Daddy? (like how's this potty thing work?), Daddy (low, serious =broke something), Daddy (whisper,loving, tired =bedtime), Daddy (sarcastic, like Daddy don't be silly - I get that one a lot), Daddy (full squeal - in the midst of being tickled). Daddy! (=where are you Daddy?!) And so on. :) +m2
3 hours ago · Like ·
Dianna Kinnard, Julie Patterson-Poor, John Dennan and 17 others like this.

Eric Michael: Awesome. I can hear each one. (with my kids saying it, of course)
3 hours ago · Like

Beckie Agan-Realtor: I get the Nanna (sarcastic, like "Nanna, don't be silly") one a lot too. FUNNY.
3 hours ago · Like

Shane White: And it only gets better!! I know you are having a blast with him...
3 hours ago · Like

Beckie Agan-Realtor: The totally excited, look of astonishment, almost fearful, look of discovery while he says, "Nanna", as he experiences something awesome for the first time.... that's my favorite.
3 hours ago · Unlike · 1 person

Bronwyn Ball Kemp: I remember my dad telling me that when I was in middle/high school that I would come to him and say, "Um, Dad?" and he always knew a request was coming, usually involving his money!!
2 hours ago · Unlike · 1 person

Beckie Agan-Realtor: As he gets older, and the newness of the world wears off, we get those reactions less and less. That's why we love being with children. They remind us of the spectacular world in which we live.
2 hours ago · Like

Michael J. Maher: So true everyone. Beckie, I love that one too. The Daaaddddeeee! of joy when he looks up at me with his big blue eyes. :) Here's one of those looks I captured from Max back on August 8 of last year --> http://dadmanconfessions.blogspot.com/2010/08/sunday-is-son-day-august-8.html <-- So precious. Time just flies doesn't it? +m2
2 hours ago · Like

Justin Nielsen: If I don't answer my boy immediately, he goes from "FAR"(Daddy in Danish) to "FAAAARRR!!!" in a second!
2 hours ago · Unlike · 1 person

Beckie Agan-Realtor: It does fly.....then one day, they are parents themselves, and looking to you for guidance. All you can do is tear up, because you know there are no words to explain just how fast it goes, how much you miss, and how you'd give anything to do it all again.
2 hours ago · Unlike · 1 person

Max, I love it when you say, Daddy, how you say Daddy, and I hope you'll forever call me Daddy. :) We really had a great night playing together. Really enjoyed playing "tackle", "cars", and "KenpoX". :)

To Your Success With Love,

Max's Dad (Michael)

Tuesday, March 22, 2011

Stop and smell the...

Hi Max!

You are so adorable! I have to just say that as your language and articulation gets bigger and better you are just so fun to be around! :)

Tonight, mom called us to dinner. As we were heading up the stairs, you took a few seconds to stop and smell the two fragrant candles that are on the landing of the stairs. You made sure not to touch them with your hands because we had just washed them. You ever so gently edged up to one, took a big sniff, and enjoyed the moment. You then slid sideways to take in the other one. It reminded me of watching a wine connoisseur take in the entire experience of the wine. And then in a blink, we worked our way up the rest of the stairs.

I was glad I was there for that moment.

I was glad you reminded me of why I was there.

I need to take time to stop and smell the roses... and the candles. We all do.

Thank you again... for educating me and teaching me on a daily basis.

With Love and To Your Success,

Max's Dad (Michael)

Wednesday, March 9, 2011

Bath Time! So glad that you love the water!

(see his little horns :)
Hi Max!

Well, in the last week, we've had 70-degree weather, 30-degree weather, snow, sleet, rain, cloudiness, and sunshine. It truly is Kansas weather. Springtime is coming.

John Maxwell is doing a videoblog in which he does a video explaining a word. Today, out of the thousands submitted, he picked mine. I sent in 10 words (as requested by the Maxwell Company) and they picked "Selflessness". Many feel that is appropriate for me. Selflessness is a maturity, a self-assured person who gives without thought of reciprocity. You're so comfortable with yourself that you can totally concentrate on the other person and their needs. I love that. Here's the video --> http://johnmaxwellteam.com/selflessness/. Hope you like it. By the way, you may ask if you are named after John Maxwell and the truth is... not really, but it certainly helped cement your name. Adds a lot of power, leadership and credibility to your name. Max is such a wonderful, strong name.

Also, you may have some new subscribers and followers. :) Rene Rodriguez mentioned www.LittleMaher.com at an event with 200 people today.

With Love and To Your Success,

Max's Dad (Michael)

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

Laughing Baby Makes Me Smile!

Hi Max!

This video reminded me of you. Too funny! I laughed out loud while watching this baby get so excited over ripping paper. Reminds me of your bath time. :)

Here's another one:

My promise is to post a video of you laughing soon. I'm smiling as I type this because you are such a happy little boy. You laugh and smile all the time! :) You make me laugh and smile all the time.

It's amazing how contagious a laugh or smile can be.

Are you going to smile all day? :)

To Your Success,

Michael

Saturday, February 12, 2011

Today is a Beautiful Day!

Hi Max!

Wanted to share my affirmation with you today...

Today is a beautiful day. Today is a great day to be alive! Today I am full of energy - feeling dynamic - full of ZEST! A bounce in my step, a smile on my face, a jig in my mind, and a warmth in my heart. I'm in love. I'm in love with life. Won't you join me in this appreciation for this beautiful day?

Love you son! You are the sunshine brightening my every day!

To Your Success,

Michael

Thursday, February 10, 2011

Zig Ziglar & Michael Maher - The Lunch of a Lifetime

Hi Max!

Big thing in my life happened yesterday and I wanted to share it with you. I had the honor and privilege of speaking on Zig Ziglar's World Wide Webcast. It's quite an honor, they only have 24 per year and they have had such top names as Andy Andrews, Rudy Reuttiger (Rudy the movie), and others. It was really nice to hear that we had the third highest attendance ever. The top two? When Zig himself was presenting... :) I can live with third place considering that. :)

The title of my presentation was The Lunch of a Lifetime. Want to hear something funny? I had the Lunch of a Lifetime right before the Webcast! I had lunch with Zig, his wife Jean, and Tom Ziglar, his son. It was absolutely wonderful. I had Zig sign several of the books he wrote and I even signed one of my books for him and Jean! Zig is writing a book about encouragement. And I was really happy to share a story about geese.

There are animal sociologists who study groups of animals and how they interact. The reason geese fly in a V is to maximize what is called drafting (it takes less energy to follow someone than to be the lead and take on the wind resistance and friction). The lead goose is taking on 4 times as much wind resistance. It will fly as the lead for a while and then after getting tired, fall back to the end of the line and recover. This allows the flock of geese to cover large amounts of distance without having to stop. While the lead goose is flying, the geese immediately behind honk. Well the animal sociologists guess that those geese are "honking encouragement" to the lead goose. "Keep going", "Great job", "Press on", "Thank you", and other phrases come out as a simple little honk. I told Zig. You have to have that story in your book!

Tom looked at me a little funny and said, "Where did you get that story?"

I said, "I read it somewhere. I've read so many books I don't remember."

Tom, Jean, and Zig looked at each other and laughed. "That's Zig's story from 20 years ago."

"Oh," I said and we all had a big laugh. Then I said, "Yes, but do you know one side of the V is longer than the other side?"

"No," they said together.

"Because there are more geese on that side of the V," I said smartly. :) We all laughed again.

I love that story and through my reading and studying had taken it, internalized it, (even called it mine - taking ownership), and told it to 100s of people.

It really was the Lunch of a Lifetime.

Love you son.

To Your Success,

Michael