Dear Tim,
Last year for Father’s Day, I gave you a book called, “So You’re Gonna Be A Dad.” It was an attempt to help you prepare for one of the biggest life changes you’d ever face.
This Father’s Day (your first real one), as I look back over the last half a year, I am so proud of the way you took on this role so amazingly well. It has not been an easy transition (especially waking up for the 2am feedings) but you have taken it all in stride.
Here are some of the ways I am thankful that you are Alena’s father:
– you endured rigorous hand squeezing (aka, bone-crunching) by my side as I laboured
– you were the first person to become proficient at changing her diaper, swaddling her and bathing her
– you spent countless hours rocking her and watching episodes of 24 in efforts to calm her crying at the 6-week peak
– in the first two weeks, you made multiple runs for things we needed, some of which were out of your comfort zone to get (how does a guy choose a nursing bra for his wife anyway?)
– you dared to bring her to a party on your own even though she wailed the whole time you were there
– you willingly tackle her poopiest and stinkiest diapers (except for the time we supplemented formula and you ran around the house pinching your nose and yelling)
– you think of ways to make her laugh and cheer her up when she’s upset
It’s been said that the best gift a father can give his child is to love her mother. You do this exceptionally well. We are both blessed by the way you care for and love me. Thank you.
It’s also been said that a child’s father is her first encounter with God. Her understanding of Him is shaped by how her father relates to her. In this, Alena is truly blessed. You reflect to her the care, attention, provision, presence, delight and deep love of God.
You may only be a six month old father, but you are already an amazing dad. Kudos to you, Tim!
Happy first Father’s Day!
With all my love and appreciation,
Olive (on behalf of Alena)