Thoughts Of A Daddy

With a second child on the way, my wife and I decided that we needed a minivan.  There was no way we would be able to squeeze two car seats, a stroller, and luggage into our current small fuel efficient car if we wanted to go on vacation.  Also, it would make it more challenging to buy groceries and especially difficult if we were to shop at Costco.  So we decided to get a brand new minivan for space and practicality. If we wanted to be really frugal, we could have bought a used car or even a certified pre-owned car, but I think it's psychological for me.  I like knowing that there was no one else who used or drove the car before me.  Even though we had to pay the premium for a new car, I was able to get it with 0% financing and no money down!  Sweet! We had debated between the Toyota Sienna and the Honda Odyssey, but ended up going with the Toyota Sienna.  The Toyota just seems to have a smoother ride and quieter engine.  Size was also a factor for us, but they were both s

"Here's a journal for you to write down your thoughts and feelings as you're about to become a dad...  One day, you'll be able to look back at your writings and see what you were thinking and feeling back then..." Those were the words of wisdom from my mom over a year ago as she handed me a leather journal to document everything I was thinking and feeling a few days before my son's due date.  At the time, I thought that was a fantastic idea and I had strongly considered following her advice.  And then my son was born. Being a father has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life, but it's also a TON of responsibility and a lot of work.  I had the intention of keeping a journal after hearing my mom's advice, but the many sleepless nights from constantly having to wake up every 1.5 to 2 hours was just plain EXHAUSTING.  The constant diaper changes and the frequent feedings while working full time and maintaining the home left little ti