Thursday, June 28, 2012

Dear Baby - Reflections from Central Park

Dear Baby,

Your dad and I took a walk though Central Park in New York City today and spent almost the entire time talking about you and how we can be the best parents possible. Here are a couple of the goals/take-aways from our conversation.  
  • Live below our means so you can learn fiscal responsibility and gain an appreciation for all that is given to you in life.
  • No "baby talk" so you feel respected and can learn proper pronunciation from an early age. (This will be particularly hard for me because I talk to Addie in a high-pitched baby voice all the time.)
  • Travel as much as possible because the world is your canvas... our goal is to position you to go out and make a difference. 
  • Introduce you to adult environments from the get-go - we want you to feel comfortable engaging with all kinds of people.
  • Similarly, we want to surround you with other kids so that you learn to share, accept differences and feel comfortable in social environments.
  • Introduce you to sports as early as possible - your dad is already looking for games he can take you to within days of your arrival. (I think he said he went to his first soccer game at two weeks. So get ready, you're in for some organized recreation!)
  • And your dad insists that you play basketball at the Y. I had to laugh at this one, but he thinks, regardless of what sports or activities you choose to pursue, this will improve your speed and agility.
We may look back on this list and laugh one day. Everyone tells me that you are going to come out with your own mind and your own personality. Just know, we will love you no matter what. We pray you are happy, healthy, safe, smart and at ease. 

Love Always, 
Mom