Wednesday, April 29th, 2009
The Houston Rockets lead the Series 3-2 against the Portland Trailblazers. This is the kind of excitement in professional sports that I live to experience. I had the pleasure of attending a game during this series and the buzz coming from Houston’s crowd of fans is absolutely infectious. Before the game was over, my father and I had met some cheerleaders (which I think he enjoyed even more than I did), got a pair of Yao Ming’s shoes and closed a new account for my Houston Courier Service, Hot Shot Delivery! The last time the Rockets moved past the first round of the playoffs was in 1997. So, needless to say, we have a lot riding on this series.
My history with the Rockets goes back as far as I can remember. From our times with Hakeem Olajuwon and Ralph Sampson to the controversial remarks about referees from our new coach, Rick Adelman – I’ve been there and been a fan. In fact, we had season tickets for years as a treat for existing customers or new customers of Hot Shot Delivery. It was only recently that we decided to give up those tickets and I’m strongly considering rethinking that decision.
There is no better feeling than when your team is winning. The entire town of Houston seems to be in a good mood. Everyone seems a bit more relaxed and we are all rallying behind a common cause. Every television in public is tuned to the game so you can be sure to catch every great shot or every bad call on our favorite, Yao Ming. It’s a great excuse to get people together and enjoy good times with friends and family at Rockets Watching Parties.
The buzz is definitely in the air for our Red Rockets. This could be our year. We are due! Go Rockets!
Until Next Time,
Eric
Tuesday, April 21st, 2009
This week, I’ve been thinking about how important it has been to me to have a mentor to guide me through un-chartered business territories or challenging situations. Having a person that you trust and that has dedicated their time to your success is priceless. I’ve been very blessed over the years to have multiple mentors in the many different areas of my life, including my Houston Courier Service, Hot Shot Delivery.
Think about the people in your life and try to come up with a mentor that will have the time and ability to meet your needs. Just keep in mind, a seasoned business mentor could be one of your most profitable efforts, but just getting a coach is only half the process. I have a few suggestions that may help you maximize the relationship for both you and your mentor.
Know what you need.
The worst thing that you can do after reading this is run out and get a business coach/mentor without knowing how you want them to help. Finding a blind spot or an area where you are weak will help you narrow in on what kind of expert you need. It will also help your mentor know exactly how they can help you, eliminating wasted hours for both of you.
Remember that they are human.
No one wants to be treated like a genie in a bottle only to appear when someone needs a miracle. While they are an expert in their field, they are also moms, dads, business owners and everything in between. Cultivate the personal and professional aspects of your relationship with them and I promise, you will will reap the dividends.
Make it a two-way street
Keep an eye out for articles or blogs that would help them in their business and send them along. Also, don’t be afraid to offer your help as well. Even if they never take you up on it, they will appreciate the offer.
Do you have any tips that have helped you and your business mentor? Share them with everyone in the comments below!
Until Next Time,
Eric
Friday, April 17th, 2009
13 years ago, a black lab puppy of 6 weeks old came in to my life. We named him Jax and have had a lifetime of wonderful memories with our pal. For those of you who have had a lab, you will agree that they are the most patient, loyal and loving dogs, not to mention, very smart. That’s exactly the kind of dog that Jax was, even to the end. And, as he lost his battle with cancer, he still managed to put our family first in his list of concerns and cares.

Jax and My Girls
I began to realize that Jax was with me through all of the most important moments of my life. Marrying my wife, having each of my kids, taking over the family courier business, graduating from college, everything. Jax, silently in the background, was a pillar of support, unconditional love and my biggest fan.
Having to bury Jax was probably one of the most miserable experiences that I’ve had in a long time. I still expect him to be waiting for me when I get home, and that hurts the most. The truth is he’s probably the best dog I’ve ever had. He was there for my wife when she needed him. He was always there for me too and has been such a good member of the Donaldson family.
Probably what I miss the most are my talks with him when he would look at me with those big sad eyes and let me know he understood. Not something that you can easily replace. Jax was a great friend and companion and I know someday we will meet again. I will miss you my old friend.
Until Next Time,
Eric