Slow Down to Catch Up

Dear Friend,

Among all the travel we do, we make sure to carve out at least one trip a year that’s just us—Crizen, me, and the kids. The goal is simple: Create space to connect, reflect, and keep pace with each other as we all continue to grow.

This summer, we chose Alberta, Canada—splitting time between Jasper, Banff, and Canmore. It was packed with adventure: hiking, biking, glacier trekking, and golf. But as usual, the real magic wasn’t in the itinerary. It was in the quiet in-between moments.

Gratitude, Right Now

After hiking back from the glacier, I found myself unexpectedly emotional. Grateful to witness something so powerful and beautiful—but also a little sad, knowing we might never see it again the same way. That glacier may not even exist during my lifetime.

And while my mind wandered between the past and future, I caught myself missing the present.

So I slowed down. Literally. I let the others walk ahead, took in the stillness, the air, the silence—and felt that deep, present-moment kind of gratitude. Sharing that space with my kids gave me hope that maybe they’ll grow up valuing time, experiences, and relationships just as much.

Proximity ≠ Connection

I’ve learned that just being near each other doesn’t mean we’re connected. Staying close-mentally, emotionally—takes real intention. And space. Space to hear each other’s thoughts, to understand perspectives, to grow together.

For us, that happened through golf.

If you know the game, you know it’ll mess with your ego. For me, the harder I try, the worse I play. After two rounds, things felt off. No one was having fun. I was actually playing well, but couldn’t even enjoy it because others were struggling—or trying to console someone who was.

It opened the door for some uncomfortable but necessary conversations. And in the end, we got back to what matters most: time together, not the scorecard.

Our third round? Way more fun. Everyone played better, sure—but more importantly we left stronger, more aligned, and more connected.

The Journey Is the Gift

We’re entering a new chapter—teenagers with big opinions and sharper critiques. And honestly, I’m excited. These moments, these conversations, these challenges…they’re the good stuff. This is how we grow as individuals and as a family.

If this resonates with you, forward it to someone who might need the reminder:

Slow down. Make space. Be here for it.

Because life moves fast—but the best parts happen when you take your foot off the gas.

 This newsletter is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute giving medical advice or endorsing any treatment. The use or application of the content herein forms no doctor-patient relationship. The information in this newsletter should not substitute for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Thanks,

Mike