Open Letter to My Husband, on Father’s Day

It’s easy to see how much our child resembles you. And not just by looking into her meaningful hazel eyes with long dark lashes or watching her lanky lean body move effortlessly through the room but rather her larger than life laughter, smile, quirky sense of humor and most especially her gentle kindness towards everyone she meets. These are the things that I first fell in love with when meeting you some 16 odd years ago. Your calm, gentle disposition and tolerance of all those around you, no matter how difficult the situation, helped seal the deal. It’s these traits that convinced me you were not only going to make a great husband, but also a great Dad.

Two years into our marriage we decided to move down this path of parenthood and boy did it start out with a bang! After our initial excitement drifted into extreme morning sickness followed by various ups and downs, eventually landing on bed-rest, it was your calm demeanor through all my panic that held it together. The composure you held those days in the hospital still baffles me because, as unruffled as you seemed, I know now how it was splitting you up inside. You never let me know though because it was important for me, and our unborn child, to remain relaxed. When we left the hospital with our little bitty bundle, I’m still amazed at how easily you fell into your role. We didn’t sleep for the first few months but each day you went to work without complaints and each night you came home and we had your undivided attention. You were with us each week for our visit to the pediatrician, then each month, until she was entirely on-track. You were always there to hold my hand and share in the excitement of watching this little being grow.

Once Kindergarten started, you were on every field trip with the rest of us. Helping create memories for her class. You were her tooth fairy when I couldn’t figure out how to get that tooth out from under her pillow. You were her rock when her first pet hamster died, helping bury it the dirt in the back yard… and again with the next one died, and again when the rat died, creating our own little rodent grave yard. You’ve always gone that extra mile and she will always remember that aspect about you.

As an initial cat person, you were willing to entertain the thought of a dog, even though the first time out didn’t work out so well. You promised her when she hit double digits we’d get a pooch and as hesitant as you were about embarking down that path, you were the one to decide to visit the rescue, knowing full well what that meant. You now have a dog that picked us, one who knew we really needed another male in the house. Oh, and as it turns out, you really do love dogs.

Now she is almost a teen, and you and I look at each other in awe wondering how we got here so fast. But I know, through all these next few years, you will be there for her…going on your nightly walks to listen to her talk. And hopefully she’ll continue to talk but either way, I know you’ll be listening. She will know too.

Every time I look at her I know she is such a large part of you and that fills my heart with joy.
Happy Father’s Day, Devin.
All our Love,
K&J (&B too)