Our ambassador Nick Troutman is a world class whitewater athlete who has traveled the world & defied the laws of nature from the seat of his kayak. Though it's hard to top the challenge of becoming a dad, so we asked Nick for some insight as he & his wife Emily raise two little adventurers of their own.
What does it mean to you to be a dad?
Hmmm... it's a ton of responsibility... like you are fully in charge of caring for these human beings... but in all seriousness it's way more love and passion then you could ever imagine... My children also help keep the child in me alive as well... they remind me of the important things in life...
What is it like raising your kids on the river/ in the outdoors?
It's the childhood I would wish for any child... lots of time in the outdoors, trying new things, getting your hands dirty, making friends wherever we go and making new memories everyday.
Do you have any advice for new or soon to be dads out there?
The old timers were right all along... time goes by too fast... you'll blick and they will be all grown up... enjoy the moment... each one... right now... go hug your children, hold their hands, pick them up, taken them for a walk, or a bike, or a paddle.... you will both grow old and you'll never wish you spent more time at work or on your computer or your phone... you'll wish you spent more time with your children.
Is there something you wish you knew before going to fatherhood?
Life isn't all rainbows and wateraflls... parenthood is a challenge as well... but I heard this saying that I wish I know earlier... Anytime you are getting frustrated with them, just close your eyes and imagine you are 80 years old, and you have a time machine that is bringing you right back to this moment. And this is the only moment you will get with them again when they're young. It is a reminder to enjoy the moment and to remember how fast they grow up.
Do you connect with your kids through music?
I most definitely connect with my kids through music... listening to music they like keeps me kind of cool in their minds... each of our kids have their own playlists with all their favorite songs.
How does your Turtlebox play a part in raising your little ones in the outdoors?
Our Turtlebox is such a fun way to keep the energy and excitment high during our outdoor adventures and our children love getting to take turns playing DJ and picking the songs... and the fact the Turtlebox speaker is so hardy I never have to worry about them breaking anything.
