There is no manual that comes with parenting.  That said, my son, I will fail you.  I came into parenting with preconceived notions, as I do in many situations, and I realize I don’t have a clue.  But I do know I must learn to study you.

What I’ve learned so far:

• Play in puddles.
• Jump on the trampoline daily.
• Love dogs.
• Enjoy books.
• Share a common interest.
• Explore everything.
• Have no fear.
• Experiment doing things yourself.
• Voice your opinion.
• Slow down and swing twice a day.
• Laugh so hard until you don’t remember why you started.

Photo by Betsy Markwald   www.betsymarkwaldphotography.com