Issue link: https://fredparent.uberflip.com/i/133124
FP: How are your visits scheduled? RM: Christian lives in Annandale. I drive to his house every other Friday to pick him up and bring him down for the weekend. Christian has been active in sports since he was very young. We always make arrangements for him to attend his games. Sometimes I will meet him at his games on Saturday mornings, or we will drive back up. We also spend a bunch of extra time together in the summer and on holidays. Christian Avila: Soccer is a great part of my life and to see my dad cheering me on makes it all the better. FP: What hobbies do you share together? RM: We both enjoy playing sports, doing crazy looking jumps into the pool, skateboarding, video games, and of course, going to the gym to work out. FP: What kind of man do you want him to become? RM: I want Christian to be a strong confident man with big dreams and no fear. I want him to be grateful for everything, polite to everyone and committed to his values. "...our children will grow up to follow our footsteps. Be the best example you can be." - Ray Milano CA: I've had lots of fun experiences with my dad. We have gone parasailing, scuba diving, fishing on a boat, jet skiing and snowboarding. FP: So what is gym time like together? RM: Christian and I are two peas in a pod. Working out at the gym together is an awesome experience. We do all the same exercises together and we spot each other on lifts. Christian pushes himself just as hard as I do. We encourage each other when our mind starts getting weak and we want to end our reps. CA: I am excited that my dad is a bodybuilder. I can see him excelling in bodybuilding. He is going to be known. Whenever I see him, we go to the gym and work out. FP: What are values you instill in him? RM: I have raised Christian to have respect for others, to always tell the truth and to do what was right even when others don't. I have taught him to always count his blessings, fight his fear and never give up. CA: I am able to talk to my dad about anything. I'm very open with him and able to express myself. I respect him and listen to him. I follow anything he asks me to do. FP: You recently got engaged. How has the family dynamic changed? RM: Jody and I are so much alike. She has two children that absolutely adore Christian. Family is the most important thing to both of us. We spend time with the kids everyday and there's never a dull moment. Jody Fisher: Ray is a very successful man, he runs his own business, he has exceeded his fitness goals, has a family that loves him very much and is motivated to grow in these areas, as well as a person. I feel Ray has instilled the important qualities needed to be successful in life in his son Christian. Ray and Christian both display a view on life that put morals and values first. FP: Any advice you want to share with other single, non-custodial dads? RM: I have a few thoughts on being a parent that I feel are worth sharing. No matter what, always respect the other parent, even if you don't agree with them. I have not always seen eye to eye with Christian's mother, but I am fortunate that she is indeed a great mother and loves him to pieces. Be prepared to give and take on issues. In a separated situation, don't lose sight of what is important: the child. Never involve or use the child as a tool to manipulate your position on any matter. Always keep in mind that the child had nothing to do with the separation and most certainly needs to be protected from any parental issues. Smother your child with love and support. Most important, I believe our children will grow up to follow our footsteps. Be the best example you can be. Sometimes this requires bettering yourself to better your child's future. www.fredericksburgparent.NET 13