June 17, 2023
As Father’s Day approaches, this year promises to be a unique experience for my family and me. Following my separation from my husband earlier this year, many of our cherished family traditions have changed. The once-familiar Friday night pizzas in front of the television and leisurely Sundays have given way to dining out, navigating custody exchanges, and coordinating schedules while remaining mindful of everyone’s emotions.
Yet, there are certain traditions we steadfastly hold onto, like our Saturday lunches at our favorite burger spot. I always indulge a bit too much, leading to my usual complaints while my ex, Tom, just shakes his head and questions my choices. But then, of course, I suggest ice cream, and he readily agrees, never bringing up my earlier grumbling about overindulgence. He knows I can be a bit stubborn, especially when it comes to sweets.
We also continue to enjoy family movie outings whenever our kids express interest in a new release. After a quick stop at the dollar store for candy and drinks, Tom pays for the tickets while I sneak into the restroom, avoiding the front desk like a pro. Our teamwork might rival that of Bonnie and Clyde!
These shared experiences, without any questions, are something we can always rely on. They make us happy, and I see no reason for that to change anytime soon.
One thing that will remain constant is my commitment to celebrating the father of my children on Father’s Day. Not only because he ensured I had a lovely Mother’s Day, complete with luxurious skincare products and a delightful dinner with the kids after instructing them to be on their best behavior, but because it’s simply the right thing to do.
He is their father. The only father they will ever have. And fortunate for them, he is an exceptional one. He deserves recognition and appreciation. Just because our marriage didn’t work out doesn’t diminish his role as a father. The fact that he is the dad to our three kids will always remain, regardless of our relationship status.
I watched him be present at each of their births, holding my legs when I was swearing at him and insisting he wasn’t doing anything right while I struggled to bring our big-headed children into the world. He drove me to the hospital three times after my water broke, despite my insistence on showering and accessorizing before heading out.
I witnessed him fall in love with each of our children, tears of joy in his eyes as he held them for the first time and cut their umbilical cords. I saw him nurture them, changing countless diapers and rocking them to sleep. He supported me during those challenging nights when exhaustion overwhelmed me, telling me to rest while he took care of everything.
Tom is an incredible father, and he deserves a day dedicated to celebrating him. While we may not share the same romantic love we once did, we’ve navigated two decades together, filled with memories, challenges, and shared joys. We’ve poured our best years into our marriage and our children.
I will continue to celebrate him on Father’s Day, this year and in the years to come. I want to honor him now just as much as I did when we were married.
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Summary
This article reflects on the importance of honoring an ex-husband on Father’s Day, emphasizing the continued bond of co-parenting despite the end of their marriage. It discusses the shared family traditions that persist and highlights the significance of recognizing a good father for his contributions.