Matt Hayek

No, it's my blankie

Matt Hayek said his brother, Andrew, can always make him laugh.

On a family road trip, Andrew claims that their mother gave Matt a blanket that was rightfully his. Hayek said his brother still brings it up even though it was 20 years ago, which he finds funny.

“It became this symbol of who was favored,” he said.

And with two kids himself, age 2 and 1½ months, Hayek said that to deal with “the fog of new parenthood,” one has to be ready to laugh.

Hayek said the hectic nature of having two young kids can lead to some unusual situations. Recently, he was scrambling to get to work and instead of taking along his cell phone, he stuffed a cordless phone in his pocket.

“It’s a pretty wild household,” Hayek said. “It’s hard having young children. It’s not glamorous in the least.”

In addition to working as a general practice attorney, Hayek also is an Iowa City councilor.

Before most council meetings, local elementary students are given awards. The students also have the opportunity to give a short speech. Hayek said the speeches often are humorous and cute.

“It’s like fifth-graders going to the Oscars,” he said.

— Chris Rhatigan

Iowa City Press-Citizen -- March 12, 2009