Summer Blog

So I made another Excel spreadsheet with a list of all the situations that are likely to arise with our soon to be toddler. On one column, I wrote things like – him not wanting to eat his carrots, not wanting to go to bed, not wanting to say hello to friends/family, etc. On the corresponding row, I wrote out potential ways we’d handle each situation, complete with scripted responses. The goal was to be very intentional about the way we raise our son with the hope that he grows up to be a good person who’s happy, confident, and has all the tools he’ll need to navigate this great big world. When I shared what I was doing with my mom, you would’ve thought I was trying out a stand up comedy routine by her reaction. I can only describe it as a very visceral laugh followed by a “good luck” and “let me know how that goes.” In fact, anyone I’ve been dumb enough to share this with has had a similar reaction. Apparently, kids don’t necessarily adhere to your spreadsheet. But I’m guessing the rest of you parents reading this already knew that.

Everyone asks me about how I’m adjusting to fatherhood. I get the normal questions about sleep, feedings, crawling, and of course, diapers. Surprisingly, all of that’s been a breeze (thanks to my incredible baby mama). The part I’ve struggled with the most is giving up control. And so my need to have a plan, be on time and putting things back where they belong have pretty much all gone out the window.

I smile as I write this, realizing that the universe has once again stepped in and forced me out of my comfort zone. I find myself being more malleable and a little less rigid. I also find myself trying to be more present. Because as you’ve all told me, and I’m now realizing, it goes FAST.

And in that way, I’m finding that raising a baby isn’t much different than everything else in life. Plan to the best of our ability, do the best we can and try to enjoy the ride. I can’t help but think that becoming a father has also made me a little better at my job.

I would like to thank you all for your continuous love and support. A lot of you have literally seen me grow up over the years and I wouldn’t be who I am without you. I’m beyond grateful to be able to share this next chapter with you.

Update – I think Tyler finally has his mom and dad sleep trained now. =)