Dear Ivan:

As you know, Daddy has been watching the Olympics all week (at least when you let me use the tv).

As you’ve seen, there are a lot of people who like swim.  It’s very exciting to watch, isn’t it?  You could do that one day too (though you will actually have to dunk your head under the water at the cool at some point if you’re going to be an Olympian).  Or maybe you’ll opt instead to be a track star.  That’s great!  If so, may I suggest that you start your training now by actually learning to stay still till someone says “go” when you race, instead of your current habit of just taking off when you feel like it.  Or maybe you would prefer to play a team sport.  That would be fantastic.  Although I know it goes without saying that if you opt for this path, you will have to learn how to share (if not the limelight, at least the ball).

Whatever you choose, know that Mommy and I are behind you 100%.  You can be an athlete or not.  Just make sure that whatever you choose to do you give it an Olympian effort.

Love always,

Daddy