There are these special moments when I get the chance to be the non-participating parent, watching from the sidelines the magic that happens between my child and their father. There is nothing like it the world, watching another human being love your child with as much heart and soul as you do.
(My heart goes out to all the wonderful single parents who miss out on this special aspect to parenting, who witness the daily little miracles that happen each and everyday with their children but don't have the ability to sneak a sidewards glance and nod in agreement with their partner that, "Yes, our child is awesome (or weird, or amazingly klutzy, or beautiful, or just plain crazy!)" My mom was a single mom and I understand the sacrifices made every day for the sake of your child(ren) and doing it all on your own. I commend every parent who does the best that they can with what they have, but for those parents out there who are doing that and doing it as
single parent, my heart indeed goes out to you.)
My husband and I are definitely part of a team. I handle the daily tasks that keep them alive (ie. food, water, comfort, arts and crafts, and clean butts). My husband is in charge of (for example) roughhousing, lessons about the importance of a healthy digestive tract, bear hugs, shoulder rides, and lessons on golf and frisbee.)
Having not had a lot of "fathering" growing up I cherish the time my kids have with their own father. He adores those kids more than they will ever fully know. Last night, after putting Mazzy to bed, Josh walks out from her room gushing with love because she had fallen asleep next to him in bed. I was amazed and, frankly, a little jealous. That girl almost never settles down long enough in your presence to take a nap on the couch with you, nevermind during the 2 hour bedtime routine. He had his special moment with his Goobie, and I was happy for him.
Just last weekend he had a few special moments with Maxton up at his aunt and uncle's house. They have a pretty cool set-up that includes a little putting green. Here are some photos I snapped of their time together...
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| My heart goes pitter pat. |
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| The dude got serious about his golf. SERIOUS. |
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| Little man. Big man. |
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Maxton has some great shoes to fill.
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| (Josh, thank you for choosing to be my partner in crime and for raising these fine children with me. I wouldn't want do it without you. Also: Thanks for letting me get away with my friends as often as you do. You are truly amazing with the kids when you have that special one-on-two time with them.) |
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| Grandpa smiling at his card, Grandma smiling at her husband, Josh smiling at his son, and then there's Maxton ignoring all of it for the sake of golf. |
