Fatherhood

For 9 years I’ve been a father. Its the greatest gift I’ve ever received. Paisley just turned 9 in June, and Bella turned 6 this month. They both bring such  joy into my life. I’m still working on being a father. It’s the greatest challenge I’ve ever had, and it’s the most rewarding challenge I’ve ever had. My wife is an incredible mother, and our girls adore her. I know they feel the same about me, just maybe in a different way. I’m reminded of so many things my father and mother taught me, and I try to pass that wisdom along to my girls. I’m blessed to be here for my girls. We spend most of our days together as a family. It’s not always easy. I work at home as a full time dad, and I’m ok with that. Is it what I visioned for my adult life? Well no, but in the end I wouldn’t change it for the world. 

               

Everyday I wonder if I’m making a difference in my girls lives. Am I the best influence for them everyday? I ask this question of myself quite often. I so badly want to be and really hope that I am. If I’m honest with myself, there are moments that I’m not at my best. We all fall down sometimes, especially as parents. I don’t care who you are. It’s never going to be easy. It’s so crucial that I give my best everyday in raising my girls. As I write this, be aware that I’m speaking about my own experiences. I could probably learn a lot from any parent reading this. I just try to be the best dad I can be. 

                 

Early on in my marriage I never knew when I would become a father. It was eight years into our marriage before Cindy got pregnant with Paisley, and then Bella came along three years later. Both girls were born in Florida. It had to be the sunshine! Haha! It was neat that they were both born there. I never expected to live in Florida, but there is a purpose for all things. I have no doubt that the girls coming along was our purpose for being in Florida, and now we’re raising them in Nashville. I do think they’re happy here. They were both so young when we moved here, so they’ve spent the majority of their lives here. They can call Nashville their hometown. They love it here. They’re in gymnastics, and they have so many other activities they’re involved in here. They love going to church, and are always making friends. My wife and I are happy calling Nashville home. 

             

There’s so much that can be said for being a parent. It’s a true gift for me. I’m happy, along with my wife, raising our girls. I hope you find the joy that I do. So here’s to parenthood. Here’s to the greatest gift one can receive in this life. Thanks for reading. May the Lord bless you, and your children. 

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