Raising Violet – The Daddy Diaries

“Post Labor Duties”

By: Anthony Hayes

Hey Dad! Welcome to the club.

(That felt weird right? Being called Dad…you’ll get used to it)

Hopefully you did not pass out in the delivery room; I didn’t. What I did do was cry. Had it not been for the fact that I was in a room with nothing but women I would have really let loose. Like the ugly cry portrayed by actor Ben Stiller in the movie “There’s Something About Mary.” 

The anticipation was well worth the wait. Violet was 6lb 2oz, 19in of pure joy, a pure soul. She was perfect in every way imaginable. That my fellow father is what you call true love. 

As soon as I held her I couldn’t let her go. I couldn’t stop staring at her. By this time I sent out a text and picture to our parents, brothers and sisters to let them know she was finally here.

Leading up to this you’ll have something to figure out. In that if your signitcant other is the type to want minimal contact during the birthing process and shout obscenities at you for getting her knocked up. 

Admittedly, I pegged her for a fighter which she is well aware of. Or…the type that wants you in the thick of it cheering her on. That I can’t help you with. Just feel it out, read the signs and keep your chin tucked JUST INCASE she starts swinging.

Did you cut the cord? I did. I was apprehensive when we were making the birthing plan as I thought I would be grossed out. It took a little effort but in the moment all that anxiety disappeared and I just WAS. 

As if you didn’t have a momentous amount of respect for your woman already, now you’ll be baffled at their true strength. Although I was mocked openenly, I prepared two thank you cards. One of which I gave to the nurses in Labor and delivery. This is another reason you want to pay attention to their names. This way you can list as many as possible followed by and ‘the entire Labor and delivery staff.’ Be sure to included the date, your child’s name, and measurements. The second card I gave to the nurses in recovery.

Violet Rose 6lbs 2oz, 19in

After a few days curled up on an uncomfortable lounge chair by her side, sleep deprived, things start to really set in. “I can’t believe I’m a Dad!” “Am I going to be a good parent?” “Is this real life?” “Thank you Anthony for writing this awesome blog.” 

Yes, yes and your welcome.

“Control the controllable, as for the rest Keep on flowing…Just be.”

website | facebook | twitter | email | itunes | stitcher | spreaker