This is the week hubs and I are essentially unplugged and enjoying summer vacation with our children. We were traveling on Father’s Day, so today I’d like to share with you a post I wrote in celebration of the hubs. It’s a re-run, but a good one at that. He’s a wonderful dad, and even though he may put mismatched socks on Little Sister and give in when Big Brother begs for just “one more book”, he’s there when it counts. And quite honestly, I love that he’s a bit more flexible at bedtime and could care less if Little Sister’s outfit is mismatched…as long as they’re happy.
We are truly blessed to have an amazing dad among us.
I hope you all had a wonderful Father’s Day weekend. Here’s to fantastic dads everywhere…the ones right in the trenches with us through this parenting journey. Remember how important and vital you are to your children. You matter. A whole heck of a lot.
It’s Christmas morning and there you are, with your drill in one hand and a complicated list of instructions in the other. You spent a tedious three hours building that gigantic dollhouse for Little Sister. I could see it in your eyes, you wanted to hurl a couple of pieces out the window once or twice. But you didn’t. You persisted.The end result? Well judging by the ear to ear smile and happy jumps Little Sister had on display for us…you did good. You were proud…and so was she.
It’s just another day and Big Brother and Little Sister are doing their usual after dinner dance. You know the one. Little Sister is swirling and twirling. Big Brother is running from room to room looking for a soft place to land.
I catch you watching them quietly. You are smiling. Tears are welling up in your eyes. I realize that you get it. You are right there with me. You understand that our time with them is indeed fleeting. You take them in and relish in their loud, sweet, and unadulterated child’s play.
Then, there was the day you spent with Big Brother. Just the two of you. Raking leaves, running errands, working in the garage, and taking a surprise trip to the park. Big Brother was clearly on cloud nine. Daddy’s little sidekick, happy to be your helper.
He always returns from those little adventures with you, full of stories. Full of confidence. Full of pride.
You are Dad and a damn good one at that.
Don’t ever forget that. And, don’t ever think for one second that your job, your role in their lives is any less important than my job as Mom.
Sure I may complain after a long day of dressing, feeding, and entertaining Big Brother and Little Sister. It’s quite possible I may turn into a drill sergeant at bedtime. I may act like I do everything. We both know I don’t.
They need you just the same.
That is why I am so glad I haven’t heard you refer to the days you spend with the kids as babysitting anymore.
Because, oh my…you are so much more than just a babysitter.
Melissa – Glad you are enjoying your family and taking time to "unplug"! I started the unplugged thing for Sundays and am happy to report that I have not been on the internet/cell for 3 consecutive Sundays. AND…the internet did not crash!
Have a restful time!
Great post! I hope you're enjoying your vacation!
I have to say I am so over the 'babysitter' role of many Dads. They are your kids too dude. Just muck in! Sounds like your hubby is a real keeper x
I hope you had a great week!