Words of Wisdom Wednesday: Inspiration From A Father To His Son.

Have you been following the amazing blog 1001 Rules for My Unborn Son by Walker Lamond? Some of my favorite recent Rules (he's up to Rule #425 now) include:

*No one wants to watch you practice the guitar.
*Don't linger in a doorway. In or out.
*If you choose to go in drag, don't sell yourself short.
*If you want to know what makes you unique, sit for a caricature.
*Don't jog shirtless.

His blog served as the inspiration behind his latest book release, Rules for My Unborn Son. The book's description says it all...

Boys need rules. One man's instructions for raising a thoughtful, adventurous, honest, hardworking, self-reliant, well-dressed, well-read, well-mannered young gentleman.

Packed with a powerful punch that mixes the humorous with important life lessons, the book is a must-read for any parent-to-be, whether you're having a son or daughter.

I had the chance to chat with Walker about the story behind the book. Here's what he had to say, and make sure to visit his awesome blog and read the book!

What inspired the blog and book?
In short, my dad. He passed away a few years back, so I wanted to write down all the things he taught me before I forgot them. I thought it would be a great way to pass those lessons down to my own son.

I know your son was born just after finishing the book. How's life with a new baby? Is fatherhood what you thought it would be?
It's better. He laughs at all my jokes.

What do you think your son will think of these rules when he's old enough to read the book?
I think while he's in the "get the same haircut as dad" period of his life, we'll be on the same page. As soon as he hits high school, the soup will surely hit the fan.

How do you think sons of today differ from the sons of your generation
I actually don't think boys change all that much. The idea that "kids today" don't measure up to their dads and grandfathers is the lament of every generation. Really, it's the environment we live in that has changed. It's not kids' fault that they didn't grow up on a farm or can't play after dark in their neighborhood. So parents just have to work harder to create those opportunities. In the old days, you couldn't go outside until you did your homework. Maybe now you can't do your homework until after you've gone outside.

What is the #1 lesson your father taught you?
The golden rule: The one with the gold makes the rules.

What didn't you father teach you that you wish he had?
How to fish.

What's your favorite rule? Why?
"Respect dress codes. You'll have more liberty to be funny." This kind of sums up my approach to life. You can be more influential, have more fun and even more creative if you draw inside the lines.

Any plans for writing some rules for your unborn daughter? What would you tell her?
I'm working on it. But for a dad, there's only really one rule. Never leave the house.

Is there anything else you think I should know?
The book is on sale now!

Spoken like a true father. Thank you for the great interview and book, Walker!