Eleven years ago today I became a father for the first time. All the preparation in the world did not fully prepare me for my foray into parenthood. I never felt like my life, as I knew it, was coming to end. I was excited, nervous, anxious and concerned for Kris.
What I remember most, besides Kristine's best friends argument with the nurse about the epidural, was the overwhelming sense of unrequited love for my new son from the moment I saw the top of his head emerge. The courses and preparation in things like changing diapers, how to hold a baby and the like taught me what to do but no one prepared me for the emotional response of being terrified, proud and extremely happy all at the same time. Tears of joy flowed uncontrollably as I counted his toes and fingers. It was the most incredible moment of my life, I had never felt so much love for one person ever.
It just seems like yesterday that I held him my arms for the first time, like a little football. Here he is in his last year of elementary school and looking forward to junior high.
I can not imagine us not living under the same roof, sharing all our meals together and cuddling. All ready those days seem to be fleeting as he gets too cool for his dad.
I certainly do not regret re-accessing my priorities to ensure that I have the work flexibility to spend as much time with my boys as possible. This stage passes way to quickly and you really only get one chance to get it right.
Happy Birthday Aidan.
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