Early Fatherhood

Raising a child is pretty cool. It changes all the time, and she fills our home joy. A few days ago our daughter turned one! She's no longer a little baby, and she's starting to be our little toddler. She used to be swaddled and carried around all day, and now she's feeding herself and climbing the stairs. We're so fortunate to have her in our lives. The days can go by quick; each one is a gift.

Life changes pretty quick. Independent adulthood afforded me a lot of flexibility. I was comfortable going out to eat or having a drink whenever I felt like it. The dreaded ‘loss of autonomy’ that people warn about? Honestly, not a real problem. Sure, the structure required to care for her means I go to bed earlier, but it’s also nudged me into better habits: I go to the gym, eat healthier, and—most of all—recognize my own need for routine.

Now that she's one year old, I've decided to reflect on three core areas of life that have been improved and show gratitude for each one.

Mind

I started writing and hosting this blog. I can finish things and put them out there. I have extra computers; I can self-host. Many of my ideas have been "maybe I'll get around to it," and never did. Now I've been doing more and learning through doing. It's nice.

Body

I need to be able to hold my daughter without getting tired. We joined a local gym, and it has been great. I have simple routines for push, pull, and leg days. It doesn't take much time, and we've been great at making it a part of our routine.

I like walking after dinner. Strolling around the neighborhood has lead to some great conversations. Before this I was living a less active life. Now I'm moving around and feeling good about it.

Spirit

If there’s one thing that surprised me most about our first year as a family, it’s how much I value our little rituals. Mornings with coffee and the baby, solving Wordle or Connections together, family meals, and our bedtime routine—they all give structure and meaning to our days. These little moments are the heartbeat of our family life.

In the little moments, after dinner walks or while rocking her to sleep, I’ve found myself feeling more humbled and grounded than ever. Positive vibes and empathy are the way.

To my daughter,

I hope you are well. These days, you're quite a sight to behold. Your two-toothed smile can light up a room, and your curiosity about the world seems endless. As you grow and things change, I will always be here. I will be here cheering you on and growing right alongside you.