Appreciate that, man. That “look over” moment hits different — it’s the purest little connection in the middle of all the chaos. Makes the bleacher seats worth every backache.
Here’s to hoping my kid ends up joining cool teams like the chess club or debate or trivia. Eyes up will be tough if she chooses something nerdy like soccer or lacrosse.
Ha! I’ll drink to that. Chess club dads unite — less running, more thinking, and snacks that don’t melt in the sun. But yeah, if she picks soccer, I’ll still be the guy on the sideline yelling encouragement between sips of lukewarm coffee.
Loved this. I remember my own “look Mom!” stage and the satisfaction when she watched me nail the trick. And the disappointment when she missed it. I hope I can be as present for my kids one day.
That’s exactly it — those “look Mom!” moments stick forever. You nailed it (literally). Being seen is half the magic for kids. You’ll crush it when your turn comes around — presence beats perfection every time.
Respect. The thumbs-up is the universal dad language — no words needed, just mutual chaos and pride communicated through a single digit. Locked, loaded, and slightly calloused.
Excellent article. I think you nailed it when you said when the child looks over, and sees your watching, it takes parenting to another level.
Appreciate that, man. That “look over” moment hits different — it’s the purest little connection in the middle of all the chaos. Makes the bleacher seats worth every backache.
Here’s to hoping my kid ends up joining cool teams like the chess club or debate or trivia. Eyes up will be tough if she chooses something nerdy like soccer or lacrosse.
Ha! I’ll drink to that. Chess club dads unite — less running, more thinking, and snacks that don’t melt in the sun. But yeah, if she picks soccer, I’ll still be the guy on the sideline yelling encouragement between sips of lukewarm coffee.
Loved this. I remember my own “look Mom!” stage and the satisfaction when she watched me nail the trick. And the disappointment when she missed it. I hope I can be as present for my kids one day.
That’s exactly it — those “look Mom!” moments stick forever. You nailed it (literally). Being seen is half the magic for kids. You’ll crush it when your turn comes around — presence beats perfection every time.
I'm right there with my thumbs up locked & loaded.
Respect. The thumbs-up is the universal dad language — no words needed, just mutual chaos and pride communicated through a single digit. Locked, loaded, and slightly calloused.