“I can’t handle him right now,” I exclaim to my husband, my frustration boiling over as I clash with our preteen son, who is surprisingly just like me. He always insists on having the final word, often accompanied by an eye roll or a door slam, signs of the teenage drama that lies ahead.
Fortunately, my husband is the epitome of patience and serves as the perfect antidote to our son’s turbulent moods. As he wraps an arm around him, they retreat to the bedroom. I linger down the hall, eavesdropping as he calmly reassures our son, his voice steady and soothing. I can’t help but smile when, at the end of their conversation, he says his signature line: “Did you know you’re my favorite? Keep it a secret from your brothers.”
When they emerge from the 12-year-old’s room, our youngest son, Timmy, eagerly jumps in. “Daddy, can we play ‘monster chase?’” he asks, referring to their favorite game where the lights go out, and Dad pretends to be a monster while they ride on his back, despite the fact that it takes a toll on his knees. With a playful groan, he pulls Timmy in for a hug and whispers, “Turn off the lights, then. Oh, and did you know you’re my favorite? Don’t tell your brothers.”
He shares this special sentiment with all four kids, each one lighting up with joy at having their own “secret” with him.
If I could create the ideal father for my children, my wish list would be extensive. He would effortlessly help with hours of complex math homework without losing his cool (and actually comprehend it). He would be eager to pass on wisdom from his own father and always make time for our kids, even if it meant reshuffling his work commitments. He would embody what it means to be a good man, showing them how to care for others—like stopping to help a stranded motorist or volunteering at a local food bank. And, of course, he would have a repertoire of eye-roll-inducing dad jokes because, let’s face it, no father is complete without them.
Fortunately, I didn’t need to place a custom order. By some fortunate twist of fate, my children and I received all that and more.
He knows when to be firm, even though I can tell it’s not his favorite role. But our kids are always aware that beneath his stern exterior, he’s a softy at heart. They understand that he would go to any lengths to ensure their happiness and safety. He cherishes his time with us, continually seeking new activities for our family to enjoy together.
He teaches them the small things, like how to tie a fishing hook, and the big life lessons—how to treat others with kindness and work hard for what they want. He tells them they can achieve anything, always expressing pride in their efforts, and he genuinely means it. As their most enthusiastic supporter, he helps them navigate everything from a broken bicycle to emotional heartaches.
Like any mother, I want the very best for my children. And I couldn’t ask for a more precious gift—for them and for me—than the kind of father he is. There’s nothing sweeter than watching the love and pride radiate from his face as he engages with our kids. Knowing that someone else cares for them just as deeply as I do is invaluable.
We often overlook the best aspects of our lives. Some parents have to juggle both roles, while others have lost their fathers to neglect or abuse. I will forever be grateful for the blessing of a devoted dad in our lives. I cherish those moments when I catch a glimpse of him being the father our kids need—whether it’s as the fun dad, the firm dad, or the supportive dad—and my heart swells with appreciation.
So, while he may not always remember to put his socks in the hamper or rinse out the sink after shaving, I can overlook those little things. Because putting up with minor inconveniences is a small price to pay for the immeasurable value of a great father. He’s my favorite, and I want the world to know.
For more insights on parenthood and fertility, check out this fertility booster for men and this excellent resource for pregnancy and home insemination. If you’re looking for expert advice on parenting, visit Modern Family Blog.