Having A Three Year Old Keeps Us Young

Life has changed for us since the arrival of our daughter in our forties. Overall, the changes have been good. One of the benefits is that our daughter is keeping us young, both physically and mentally. Here are some examples:

Physical fitness. I constantly joke with friends that we need to have regular physical fitness training to keep up with our three year old. Being physically fit is not an option, it's a requirement:-) The main area of focus is flexibility, for which my spouse and I are doing yoga. We also both do some aerobic exercise (e.g. walking and tennis). I'll also be adding strength exercises (e.g. weight training) in 2008.

I realized today that my current exercise routine of playing tennis once per week is not enough. A neighbor and I started a tennis drill routine yesterday and my body is pretty sore today, after only a three hour workout.

Better diet. Kids should eat an three servings of vegetables and two servings of fruit each day. We have to set a good example, with more vegetable and fruit for ourselves.

Better sense of humor. We spend a lot more time laughing and playing than before. Daily life is funnier and we take time to play. I estimate I am laughing at least an hour per day.

A culture of learning and experiences. We take more effort to create experiences and memories for our family. We go to many more museums, parks, zoos and special events than before. And we spend more time on taking extracurricular educational and activity classes.

Also nowadays, we don't agonize as much over the cost of attending the attractions. However, when it's cost effective, we do purchase a family membership. We consider membership a good option when venue is close by and the break even cost is between two to four visits.

Connection to parents in their twenties and thirties. We are going through many of the same experiences, such a potty training, pre-school, and play groups. It always refreshing to have a connection with younger age groups.

I do admit that I am also a bit more tired than before. However, if I can keep this up, I expect that I will gain strength, both mentally and physically:-)

For more on Crossing Generations, check back every Thursday for a new segment.

This is not financial or family advice. Please consult a professional advisor.

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