Lessons from Parenthood – The Early Bird Gets the Workout

There are two things about me that are as true as death and taxes – I am not a morning person, and I am very active.

As a result, I have always maintained an exercise routine in the afternoon or evening, generally stopping by the gym on the way home from the office. The only time I developed a consistent exercise routine in the morning was when I had access to a free gym and physical trainer. The catch? I had to meet my boss for a 6:30 a.m. workout.

On one of these mornings, while I was complaining about how early it was, my boss said, “Just wait until you have kids, this will be the only free time you have.” I was determined that this wouldn’t be the case for me. Certainly I could find a way to stop by the gym after work a couple days each week.

In hindsight, it was wishful thinking - I have succumbed to the early morning exercise routine. My former boss was right; as a parent, sometimes the dawn hours are the only time available for a quick workout. And if I happen leave the office with time to spare I’d rather hurry home to give my little girl a goodnight kiss.

A Life Lived Well

On Sunday, April 1 Dr. Leila Denmark died at 114 years old. Dr. Denmark was a legendary pediatrician who practiced in the Atlanta area.

We have friends who grew up with Dr. Denmark as their pediatrician, and although we didn't know her, we purchased a book about her teachings and referenced it often in Madelyn's early days.

Last year the AJC published a great article about Dr. Denmark's legacy. In another article Dr. Denmark summed up her secret to success by simply saying, “You keep on doing what you do best as long as you can."

Here's to a life lived well, and a testament that wisdom truly is timeless.

Happy Easter

Easter was a great day spent with family celebrating something that is definitely worth celebrating!

Madelyn looking cool with her cousin Jimmy.

Spring!

In the spring, at the end of the day,
you should smell like dirt.

- Margaret Atwood

Learning to Sing for Little Sister

This week, Madelyn turned 21 months old and baby girl number two turned 28 weeks. It's crazy to think that I will have a two year old and a newborn in about three months. I am continuing to enjoy Madelyn as she grows and learns, and I am looking forward to those newborn cuddly, snugly baby moments again (even at 3:00 a.m.)

Madelyn is at the age where she is growing and learning at such an accelerated rate. She has given us small glimpses into the "terrible twos", but she really is a great kid. She loves to be outside, dislikes sharing her toys, enjoys playing in the dirt, hates to wear shoes (or a hat), and loves to sing. She is very camera shy, but I managed to sneak a video of her trying her favorite song: