In the early 80s TV show The Greatest American Hero, the main character Ralph has a special superhero-style suit complete with special powers. Space aliens gave it to him so that he could save the world. The only problem is that Ralph lost the instruction manual in the desert where the suit was originally given to him. Without the manual, Ralph’s only option is to learn all of the powers of the suit by trial and error.

That’s kind of like what it is to be a parent. No instruction manual and a lot of trial and error. During the last four weeks, my wife and I have been learning what our special powers as parents are.

Maybe we have the power to save the world.

All that I know at this point is, believe it or not, I’m walking on air.

Believe it Or Not

Look at what’s happened to me,
I can’t believe it myself.
Suddenly I’m up on top of the world,
should have been somebody else.

Believe it or not, I’m walking on air.
I never thought I could feel so free.
Flying away on a wing and a prayer,
Who could it be?
Believe it or not, it’s just me.

Looks like the light of a new day,
Hit me from out of the blue.
Breaking me out of the spell I was in,
Making all of my wishes come true.

Believe it or not, I’m walking on air.
I never thought I could feel so free.
Flying away on a wing and a prayer,
Who could it be?
Believe it or not, it’s just me.

Who could it be?
Believe it or not, it’s just me.

1) If I am not sleeping, then I must be in constant motion.

2) If I am sleeping, I prefer that you either carry me or place me in the swing. This way I will be in constant motion.

3) I love the changing table. This is not actually a rule. I just wanted to mention that I love the changing table.

4) Don’t even think about trying to eat. I might only be three weeks old, but I already know what the microwave sounds like. If I hear it, I’ll insist you pay attention to me immediately.

5) The same goes for watching TV, spending time with each other, going to the bathroom, or anything else that you enjoyed from your life before me.

6) From now on, you’ll need to do everything with only one arm. It amuses me.

7) I must insist on your individual undivided attention.

8) Don’t kiss each other or show any affection towards each other. You really don’t have the time.

9) Have I mentioned how incredible the changing table is??!

10) I have the power to create rules on the fly. Be ready.

Signed,

the little dictator

My baby daughter was born today! She’s absolutely amazing and beautiful! I am in awe of my wife!