Category Archives: Dekeday Foundation

A children’s nonprofit organization to help and inspire families and people of all ages.
Founded in 2009 by David, Dylan and Daylyn Tepera

Dekeday Foundation

Christmas parties about more than just eating

By David Tepera, December 12, 2018

Over the past several weeks, I’ve been bombarded with questions regarding Christmas party eating. Most people are trying to keep their diets in check, but the variety of foods has become challenging.

My advice is to enjoy the holiday festivities because this is that time of year where we have the opportunity to taste many homemade desserts. Now, don’t make a meal out of sweets, only sample the ones you want.

When it comes to slices of pie or cheese cake, I always share with another person. To be honest, I typically share several slices. Since I do all the cooking in my house, it’s not too often I get the pleasure of other people’s homemade delicacies.

Remember, it’s not what you eat, it’s how much you eat during these parties. But, if you feel that you’ve indulged too much, then on the following day, perform extra cardio work, plus reduce carb intake significantly. I promise, you’ll feel less bloated as the day goes on.

Recently, I attended an annual Christmas party given by two animal rescue organizations in Friendswood. I did my fair share to indulge all the tasty treats, but the best experience was meeting the special people who volunteer to help needy animals.

There was David and Vicky, who not only change the lives of countless canines, but gave a financial donation to the PTSD Foundation of America through my book.

A wonderful lady named Karen has literally hand-raised hundreds of kittens, vetted all their needs, plus found loving families to care for them.

The list is too grand because everyone at the party had a special connection for a passion towards animals. These particular gifted people are just to name a few.

Really, my message today is to look beyond the wonderful foods at Christmas parties, mingle with strangers and find the uniqueness we all possess. There’s good in all of us, so this is your opportunity to make new friends.

Now, next time you attend another Christmas party, enjoy the tasty treats, and bring a gift of joy, happiness and love. Remember, it’s more than just eating.

Dekeday Foundation, Inspiration

It’s game day

By David Tepera, October 24, 2017

It’s game day! You’re coming out of the gate with a fierce vengeance. All the hard work, training, studying, sweat and bruises have prepared you for this day.

Just know, everyone has aches and pains on game day. It’s those who can embrace the pain, forget its existence and charge forward that will become victorious.

For the past nine months, I’ve been training an elite athlete for a world-class competition. Her body has bruises, there’s back and shoulder pain, plus the exhaustion of an extreme diet. But, when she looks in the mirror, there’s a gladiator staring back ready to conquer the enemy.

Keep in mind, there’s a difference between pain and injury, but that explanation is for another day.

What about all you other athletes? Have you truly prepared, or just went through the motions because it’s a team sport? Yes, support your teammates to win in the trenches, but you must hold up your end to win championships.

Challenge yourself to prepare endlessly because game day isn’t only physical competition. Don’t we all have careers, children, spouses or goals? Are you prepared to give your best to your employer or employees? Which role model have you chosen to be for your children? Did you teach your kids to put a hand out or a hand in?

Most people are in relationships. Yes, we get comfortable with each other, but sometimes, someone is taking advantage of the other. It might be time to step up your game and quit being a lazy grumpy slacker. You wouldn’t want to live with that person, so don’t be it. Find good in everyone and love those around you.

Why not wake up today and choose to be the ultimate you. Go beyond the norm to be adventurous and daring. Step out of your comfort zone and quit worrying about what others think. It’s your head that lays on the pillow at night reflecting the day’s events. What will you be thinking about tonight and planning for tomorrow?

Don’t let your dreams die. We are only on this earth for a short time, and it’s never too late to make an impact. When you change your life, you change others. Become the leader in your family and teach your children to never give up on dreams because getting ready for game day will turn dreams into reality.