On April 11th, 2016, I became a first time father. Friends and family who were already dads tried to give me some insight as to what I could expect before my son Reed was born. I think they were trying to prepare me for the many sleepless nights…dozens and dozens of dirty diapers to change…and a whole new way of life. Boy, they weren’t kidding! My life before Reed consisted of doing what I wanted, basically when I wanted. Go to the gym, hang out with friends, even just enjoying a jog on the Monon were all things I did on a regular basis. But all that changed on April 11th. My wants and needs play second fiddle to those of my son’s. I kinda feel like a secret service agent whenever we leave the house with him! Whether my wife Jenni and I take Reed to the grocery store, a family function or even a stroll, I’m not on alert watching over my son like a hawk. Before Reed my mind would be filled with thoughts like: “I think I’ll go to that concert tonight” or “Bourbon and pizza sound good this weekend!”…but now my thoughts consist of: “What time did Reed eat and when will he need fed next?” or “I’ve gotta go the store for Gas Relief Drops,Baby Wipes and formula”. Reed has peed on me countless times while I changed his diaper, spit up on me while trying to get him to burp, caused me to tear the living room apart because we misplaced his pacifier! Yep, my life has changed. And I wouldn’t have it any other way. I have a whole new respect for why we celebrate ‘Father’s Day’ each year. It’s been said that any man can be a father, but that it takes real man to be a dad. On April 11th, 2016 I was given the awesome responsibility of caring for Reed. Loving him. Providing for him. Teaching him. Encouraging him. It was the best gift I have ever received.
