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Erik At The Helm

Originally uploaded by Mguentz

We went sailing on Sunday. Erik got to drive.

I suppose folks in northern climates might like this…I’m growing weary of it.

Kayla in 2001 with a baby Emma

It’s been sixteen years since my first baby came into this world.  Since her mom was having a few blood pressure issues late in the pregnancy, the doctors decided that Kayla would enter this world on a schedule (i.e. her mom would be induced).  It was a stress filled night, but I was rewarded the next day with a beautiful baby girl.

She turned out better than I ever could have hoped.

Happy Birthday Kayla!

P.S.  I have a sixteen year old daughter…I’m getting old.

One of my folks at work sent me a link to this. Pretty clever.

Another year has gone by way too quickly.

Today, I’m 41 and I still don’t feel old.

Sure, I’m not as spry as I used to be.  I haven’t run a 10K in about 12 years.  I weigh more than I should.  I have classic male patterned baldness (although I’m pretty sure it has stopped spreading…deluding myself maybe).  I have 3 kids and a house in the burbs.  If my 21 year old self met my 41 year old self today…well…I might punch myself.

I’m reminded of a conversation with someone who hired me back in the 90s.  This guy was in his sixties and was in advice mode when I was talking with him.  He told me (in his East Texas drawl) that time passes pretty reasonably and slowly when you’re in your twenties and thirties, but when you get to your forties, it’s like you hit a “greased rail” and time goes by quickly.

It turns out he was right.  This year went by quickly.  But it was certainly full too.  I don’t know the magic formula to slow down while on the “greased rail” — maybe I should drink less coffee.

By the way, I think my 41 year old self could take my 21 year old self. 

And isn’t it good
If we could freeze moments in time
We all would
But I do what I can
I do what I can

-Sheryl Crow

Earlier this month, Erik went to a birthday party and visited a fire station in Austin.  Here are a couple of pictures: