Having a wife that travels can be, at times, challenging. Especially when a new baby is involved. As a the only parent at home when my wife is on the road, I am forced to be what I can only think of as, “MR. MOM”. I always remember Michael Keeton’s 1980’s role in “MR. MOM” when my wife gets on a plane. I wouldn’t trade the alone time I get with my children for anything. It causes me to stretch my communication skills relating with my children and strengthens me personally as I push my boundaries of stress and caring. I am blessed to HAVE to understand the range of emotions my lovely daughter exudes in those times of wanting her mommy. Only a father to a little lovely princess could understand the challenges we face… with mom by our side. Now try it alone for days at a time. It’s a whole different set of challenges. From playing dolls, to bedtime stories and the challenge of trying to understand the thinking of a grown woman, let alone a woman who is just starting out and has no idea she is experiencing hormones. I have to laugh at the quickness by which my daughter goes from one feeling or emotion to another. The mind wobbles…
Like I said… I would not trade it, but challenge equals reward.
So today, I find myself blogging in a hotel room set in downtown Chicago. My wife at work. My one year old (as of yesterday) beside me, napping. My daughter chilling out to cartoons in the sitting room. This week’s adventure is attributed to my son Brayden’s first birthday. We didn’t want Mommy to miss out on this precious anniversary of his birth, so I loaded up the kids and made the drive from Michigan. Five hours in the car with a 4 year old girl and an almost 1 year old little boy strapped into car seats, the car packed full of supplies for the week. It was a sight to see. The trip was, obviously, a success because I am here. But with a late arrival and excitement of a long overdue reunion with Mommy we all got to bed by about 1am, Michigan time.
Now to the “Piece De Resistance”. Last night was Brayden’ s Birthday Dinner. Excited to walk the streets of Michigan Avenue we set out for Grand Lux Cafe, a local favorite when my wife and I travel here. Brayden capped off the evening meal with his own personal whipped cream dessert to celebrate his life. A life we are all overjoyed to celebrate and let him indulge.
Once again the rewards far outweigh the challenge of getting here.
~Chris (Fresh Daddy)
BeckeyZ says
You are an awesome Daddy!
I had forgotten that Brayden and my boy Benjamin shared a birthday. Too cool.
We spent the day reserving Pokemon games and assembling a basketball hoop for his 10th celebration.
MellyFree says
ahhhh…. hahaha!!! such a cutie! Very well said C. Blue! Loved every word. 🙂
antoinette marie says
you two are the true ‘above and beyond’ couple! you don’t just settle, you dig in and make life happen! you deserve every reward life brings your family! happy birthday brayden!
jennykate77 says
Nice post, Fresh Daddy!
I love your statement about “challenge equals reward”.
CUTE pic of Brayden!! Happy Birthday, little man!!
Kelli says
It’s nice hearing about family from the husband’s point of view! Thanks Chris for adding memory to Tab’s awesome blog!
Erin says
Yea to hearing your side of life!
The Rheinlander's says
LOVE IT!! I think that this post is just plain awesome!! What a lovely husban and daddy not only to do what you do but to share it with us too : )
Happy Birthday to your little man!!
~Melissa
Aleta says
How nice to hear from Fresh Daddy 🙂
And how sweet that you appreciate your wife and enjoy the time with the kids, challenge and all.
LOVE the picture – beautiful boy!
Jessica says
You guys are such a blessing and joy to watch. You are both so supportive of each other and your kids will grow up knowing how a husband and wife should really love and respect one another. Happy Birthday again, little Bray. We love you! Great job on your post, Chris 🙂
Life with Kaishon says
Happy Birthday to your baby! My sister’s baby was born on February 17th as well. It is a great day to be born! Glad you could all be together!
That Janie Girl says
Beautiful post, beautiful baby, beautiful that y’all were all together for the par-tay!
♥ Boomer ♥ says
Fabulous, Fabulous, Fabulous!!!
Ashlee says
Great post, fresh Daddy! Where is your blog? hehe 🙂
Gerri says
Well done Chris, A.K.A. Fresh Daddy, A.K.A. Mister Mom!!