Travel has a way of reminding us that the best part of a trip is often getting home. Canceled flights, impossible traffic, airport chaos, and changing plans can turn a straightforward journey into an exhausting exercise in problem-solving. The lesson is not to expect travel to go smoothly, but to prepare for the moments when it doesn't. Because after the meetings, the delays, and the frustration, the destination that matters most is still home.
Read MoreTeaching morals may be one of the most important (and difficult) jobs of parenting. Morals are not built through lectures; they are formed through ordinary moments, consistent examples, and the behaviors children see when no one is watching. The real test comes when children begin making those choices on their own, even when doing the right thing costs them something. Those quiet victories may never trend on social media, but they are the ones that matter most.
Read MoreSome of the most meaningful gifts will never be wrapped in paper. They're found in shared experiences, a road trip, a concert, a ballgame, or an afternoon spent together without distractions. While possessions eventually wear out or are forgotten, memories tend to appreciate over time, becoming stories, traditions, and part of a family's identity. The greatest inheritance we leave may not be what we owned, but the moments we shared.
Read MoreFor years, I treated busyness like an accomplishment and vacations like an interruption. Somewhere along the way, work stopped being something I did and quietly became the lens through which I viewed nearly every day. This summer, I'm trying something different: being fully present with my family, putting work in its proper place, and remembering that rest isn't the enemy of productivity, it's one of its prerequisites. Sometimes the hardest thing a workaholic can do is simply step away.
Read MoreIn a world built for speed, we’ve traded depth for efficiency—quick texts instead of long talks, brief visits instead of lasting memories. Yet the moments that shape us most aren’t the fast ones; they’re the ones that stretch, linger, and allow real connection to take root. Whether it’s family dinners, road trips, or slow Sunday rounds of golf, those unhurried experiences remind us what it means to be fully present. Life may move fast, but meaning takes time.
Read MoreI learned the hard way that "Coach Dad" is a tough gig—especially when it comes to push-ups. After calling out my daughter distinctive form in front of her teammates, I found myself on the receiving end of a very disappointed 8-year-old and a lesson I won’t forget. Boys bounce back from criticism like it’s a challenge; girls, not so much. Note to self: next time, keep the commentary positive and save the groveling for after practice!
Read MoreAfter a series of back-to-back trips, the emotional rollercoaster of leaving home has become more intense. While the travel itself was enjoyable, the morning departures felt increasingly difficult as the emotional weight of leaving my loved ones took its toll. However, returning home brought a profound sense of joy, reminding me of the powerful psychological connection we have to familiar places and the people we care about. This experience reinforced a timeless truth: distance truly does make the heart grow fonder, highlighting just how important family and home are in the grand scheme of life.
Read MoreHearing that an old friend is very ill is a stark reminder of life’s unpredictability and the fragility of health. It prompts reflection on the importance of living intentionally, cherishing simple moments, and nurturing connections with family and friends. Life is fleeting, and this reminder can inspire gratitude and purpose in each day.
Read MoreMom called to share the news that my great aunt, Imogene (Imy) Minier Williams, had passed away at the remarkable age of 103. She was the final member of my grandparents' generation to pass away, connecting our family to stories of history, resilience, and love. Imy’s presence was always a source of laughter and joy—her smile and infectious laugh lit up every room. Though her passing marks the end of an era, her memory and the stories she shared will always bring a comforting smile and a bittersweet reminder of family ties.
Read MoreAt a recent family wedding, I watched my typically reserved 11-year-old son dance fearlessly for nearly two hours, overcoming his inhibitions and becoming the joyful center of attention. His uninhibited dancing reminded me of the value of living in the moment and inspired pride and admiration for his courage and happiness.
Read MoreDespite always losing and even having my sunflower die early this year, I cherish these moments for the joy, laughter, and togetherness they bring to our family, making us all winners.
Read MoreA good reminder from a little-known philanthropist who makes a mega-gift every year on their birthday.
Read MoreWe can all agree the cost of higher education is, well, too high. This blog post explores the expenses associated with college and Randall’s take on what can be done about it. Read on to learn more.
Read MoreRandall has a wish for you this holiday season. Read this blog and find out what Randall’s hopes are for you. Happy holidays from Hallett Philanthropy.
Read MoreDuring this holiday season, remember to show gratitude to others. In this blog, Randall explores how expressing gratitude can actually change your life. Read on to learn more.
Read MoreAs my kids prepare to go back to school, I am reminded of something many of us take for granted - school supplies. Our list of required supplies gets more and more expensive each year. But what about families that cannot afford this expense? Read this blog to learn how our school relies on philanthropy to handle this challenge.
Read MoreSummer for kids looks a little different than it did for my generation. Kids today often spend a portion of their summer break doing some level of schoolwork. Read this blog for Randall’s thoughts.
Read MoreThe kids ARE watching. Whether you’re on your best behavior, or not quite your best, the kids are modeling what we’re doing. Read this blog for Randall’s perspective on this very topic.
Read MoreEverything old is new again. What can we learn from watching some old school television shows? Read the blog for more.
Read MoreWe are right in the midst of Randall’s favorite time of year. Read this blog to learn why the first three months of the year are Randall’s favorite months.
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