What is one conversation you wish you could have, father to father, with either your dad or your son?
Devin Padavil,
Taylor Independent School District Superintendent This would be a conversation I have with my son when he becomes a dad one day: Savor the moments when they are little and be patient with your children. Don't let hard times stress you out too much. They say 'this too shall pass' is a good reminder during the tough moments. It is also a good reminder during the great times in your life. Enjoy them before they become distant memories.
Mike Snyder,
Mayor of Hutto
I’d like to share with my son that you will be remembered for what you’ve done in life, how you treated people in life and how you served your community. That respect is earned, and it can take a lifetime to earn and be lost in a day. What’s right is often what’s not easy.
Brandt Rydell,
Mayor of Taylor
I don’t recall exactly where, when and from whom I received the best parenting advice I ever heard. But I am sure it was during my early and particularly fretful years as a parent. The advice?
“Your only job as a parent is to show your child love.” Everything else flows from that.
Troy Marx,
Mayor of Thrall
Over the years I have been blessed to be given so many great opportunities and advice from my father.
My son (is) now entering his junior year in college, I always want to impress what my father impressed on me that in life you should always try to give more than you ever receive. He has taken to this in so many ways, studying to be a Music Education Major to help teach children music and helping in the City through both the snow storm and the ice storm, always with a smile and a helping attitude. I hope that over the years he is able to impress this on his students and someday his own children.
Jeffrey Yarbrough,
Hutto Police Chief.
Jeffrey Yarbrough tragically lost his own son Brandon Yarbrough in 2019 at the age of 32.
“I wish I could have had a conversation with my father to help me truly understand not to worry about the little things. When raising children, do not worry about the finger paint, dirt on their clothes or the muddy shoes—because one day, those days will be gone and you will miss them.”
James Earp,
Hutto City Manager Be gracious with your children. Remember to be slow to anger. Encourage rough and tumble play.
Foster curiosity — even if it’s pirating. Bolster dreams. Value each child’s unique traits. Walk with God. And understand no one will ever love you like your children.
Jason Hennington,
Area Editor of the Taylor Press It would be a conversation with my brother (Kevin), myself and my dad. Kevin and I would just listen to him so we can learn to become the man we saw as a father growing up. Know when to discipline, but also know when to be nurturing. Be great, but humble. Some of the same things he tells us now.
