Parenthood is depicted on television sometimes as something to be abhorred. Living in the suburbs receives a similar treatment, and the two frequently go hand-in-hand. This, however, is exactly what I wanted. A home, a wife, some children, and spending time with them.
Regardless of whether I'm lame now that I'm a parent (I was lame before!), I'm satisfied with the joy that being a father has brought to me.
Moments ago I put my little girl to bed for a nap. She's been difficult lately when it comes to sleep. In fact, last night I put her down and left the room. No fewer than one minute later she started crying and then threw up. She does this sometimes, but I don't know why. So now her room smells. I'll clean the carpets later this week.
So the throw up story doesn't sound joyful, I get it. The joy was actually holding her as she fell asleep. She's just so still, quiet, and peaceful. You get to cuddle this little angel for a few minutes before you lay her in the crib. The joy is also in the every day living with her.
Yes, I realize that now I'm for sure a lame father, but my baby absolutely LOVES Little Baby Bum. Turns out, I think the songs are mostly cute and sometimes even fun! Her reactions are the most entertaining, and seeing her dance in her own way is just wonderful. At first, I thought the graphics looked cheap and I thought the songs would suck, but it has grown on me. Now that it's a part of my day-to-day, I think it's fun.
It may be silly and it may not be what some people consider fun, but I like it. And family is important. I'm not so concerned with "leaving a legacy" or ensuring that my DNA or last name live. I'm far more concerned with enjoying family life and raising my girl in the best way possible.