Father...

...A son's first hero, A daughter's first love. I couldn't have said it any better.

Over the past few months I've been reminded of this many times over. My kids look up to me for so many things. Not just gifts but the love, attention, discipline, and security that I provide.

I love them not just as a father but as a daddy should. I still feel the butterflies when they call me daddy. Can you believe I never called anyone daddy? For as long as I can remember I never said it out loud. Until recently, and when I did say it-it sounded weird coming out of my mouth. To hear my kids call me daddy is a wonderful feeling. I tell my Big Head, Princess, and Buddy I love them all they time and kiss the boys even though I know they don't like it. Avery wipes it off. LOL

The attention that I provide is constant when they are with me. Now I do have my moments when they are distracted. I try to step away just to refocus and figure out what time it is. lol They track me down quickly to break all that up. But when they want my attention it's theirs. As long as they are respectful!

That is where discipline comes in. They know that I have expectations from each and every one of them. They are to respect others as well as respect themselves. They are to try their best at whatever they do. School most importantly. (And the twins are on the principal's list...JOY! :-)) And I try to teach them patience. It has taken me years, on my own to learn patience. It was a struggle and I fight with it at times but it has paid off tremendously. There will be no if, ands, nor buts to it. I can see that my kids respect that and obey. I am proud!

I will protect my children fiercely! Keep them secure at all costs. I'm sure they have seen bits and pieces of my attitude when I come at others that has done them wrong. I DON'T PLAY!!! Please don't try me. Unless you want to see me in beast mode which I highly recommend you stay away.

At times I forget how much they rely on me and how much I need them. But they are constant reminders. Reminders that I need to stay on my square with them. I have to remain focused and keep it going. Several years ago I believed that all I had to do was wait out the 18years then I would be done. But with more experience and maturity I am learning that my support will never end. And to be honest I'm not at all upset by it. :-)

I am my boy's first hero! They want to be just like me. I am my daughter's first love. She will find a spouse... (in the far distant future) that have the same qualities as her first love. Its amazing the impact that I have on them. How much they take from me and apply to their own lives. Simply amazing!