16 years ago today, the best son in the entire world was born.
I have learned so much from him in the last 16 years.
1. Life is funny. Anything and everything is funny to a child. The simplest of things make them giggle with glee. Your child’s laughter is a wonderful sound.
2. How to pretend. Your child’s imagination is a wonderful asset. In their minds, anything is possible! Moon walking and digging for treasure is nothing out of the ordinary. It really brings out your inner child.
3. How to be messy. Before kids, your house was spotless and your clothes were clean. After kids, that’s pretty much impossible! Kids love getting dirty and will take you along for the ride. Mud pies anyone?
4. How to be active. Kids are constantly on the go. They’re like little ‘Energizer Bunnies’! From running and dancing to playing tag, your kids will keep you on your toes! Who needs the gym?
5. How to be impulsive. It’s hard to plan life with a baby around. Plans are no longer set in stone. From diaper blowouts to teething pains, you just have to learn to go with the flow. A child changes your whole routine.
6. How to not be self-conscious. Kids don’t care what they look like or what anybody else thinks. That’s the wonderful thing about them. They will wear rain boots with their swimsuit and go to the mall. When you join them, you’re well on your way!
7. How to find joy in the simplest of things. Giving a child a sticker can make them jump for joy. Turning over a rock and finding a worm is an event to be remembered. Children make you appreciate everything life has to offer. “Look Dad, another worm!”
8. How to love learning. Kids ask questions and want to know everything. What is a planet? How do I grow? Their excitement for knowledge is infectious!
9. How to love unconditionally. There’s no feeling in the world like becoming a parent. Until you try it, you’ll never know. Loving your baby more than life itself just happens. It’s breathtaking.
10. How precious life is. Bringing a life into this world makes you realize how quickly it can be taken away. Being a parent makes you terrified for the safety of your child. It also makes you appreciate the little things and live life to the fullest.
I can only hope that I have passed onto him some knowledge as well. I have always told him- I am not raising a boy. I am raising a Man.
He recently handed my wife and I a 2 page letter detailing the reasons why he should have his weekday curfew (when he doesn’t have home work) extended. He then proceeded to verbally state his case. When we were through listening, my wife and I decided to extend his curfew and I could not have been more proud of him.
Happy Birthday Chase.
