Morning swims, reading, surfing, yoga, gardening, precious moments with Emanuel - daily rituals encouraging a slower pace and experimentation. The beautiful natural landscapes surrounding, naturally offering up a lifestyle in which it is clear they are flourishing. It is hard to imagine the outside world intruding in on this dreamlike bubble, and the words written on a love note from Ryder to his wife, pinned to the wall of their artists beach shack: "Sun is shining, weather is sweet", could not encapsulate the essence of this creative family more perfectly.
Get to know a little more about Ryder and his Fatherhood journey so far below.
What surprised you most about becoming a father for the first time?
When my son was born I saw him as a being purely himself, made of his mother and me, but immediately I saw he was a person who was not me or his mother. When his body stretched itself out for the first time, I understood this to be true.
What qualities do you love from your own father?
My father is patient and kind , both hard and soft, he cries but he is also fierce. He is a steady force in our family. I am different than my father but I aspire to treat my son as he treated me.
Favourite thing about fatherhood?
Taking outdoors baths !
How our days are full of rhythm and routine.
When I look into his eyes and I see the sky reflected in the wet pools of his eyes. I see myself reflected too.
Has becoming a father impacted the way you approach your work?’
I make better use of my time !
Best dad-hack?
My friend Reuben is a great surfer and a father , he can do some of the best dad hacks I’ve ever seen, he rides fast down the line and cuts a slash across the blue surface of the wave .This is the only dad hack I know.
First thing you do when you wake up?
I do some yoga with Emanuel, he sits on my back as I do cat cow.
Last thing you do when you go to sleep?
I lay on my back and ask my mind to take me somewhere I’ve never been. If I surfed that day I remember my best waves.
What is your favourite thing in your bedroom?
My wife and child !
How will you celebrate fathers day this year?
I’ll go swimming!
