Fatherhood

Having to work late ... I miss my wife and son. I love being there when he gets home ... I see that smile light up on his face as he sees me. I get that first hug and sometimes, even a kiss on the cheek. Some days, I take him out to the Mustang so he can "drive," having to remember to reset all the lights, vents, radio, and mirrors. Other days, he heads straight for the cupboard for food ... it is truly amazing how much food one little man can put away sometimes. Then, there are times ... those truly rare days when all he wants is Papa time. I have to hold him, snuggle with him, and generally have him nearby no matter what I want to do. I miss them ...

Watching a life develop into a person is a truly amazing experience. My son loves to hug people that he knows (this may apply to people he doesn't know, but we keep a pretty close leash on him at this point, so it's hard to tell).  Patrick has been generous with his hugs since he was just a few months old.  At this point in his life, he even understands when we ask him for a hug.  It is very cute and makes everyone feel wonderful. Since I've always been the kind of person that fully enjoys a good hug, I have certainly enjoyed this part of becoming a father. As he's grown and developed, the hugs I've truly grown to enjoy are those where Jen and I are hugging and Patrick lets us know he wants involved.  With his arms stretched toward us and a beautiful grin on his face, the intent is unmistakable.  Once we pick him up, he gets an arm around each of us and pulls hard, bending in, and warming our hearts.  Even more recently, when one of us has been holdin...