Watching my partner become a father for the first time

Dear partner in crime,

This is your first Father’s Day celebration. Watching you become a father to Levi has given me the opportunity to see all the things I love about you in a new light. The day Levi was born, you automatically went into dad mode without hesitation.

As soon as I got out of the operation room that day, not only were you taking care of our newborn, but you took care of me through one of the hardest times of my life. It’s truly beautiful to see how you embrace fatherhood, even through unexpected curveballs.

The day we were finally discharged from the hospital, you learned how to put on a car seat for the first time. I probably would have never figured that out. Parenthood comes with a lot of firsts, and you have been managing them pretty well as a first-time dad.

Just like the first time you had to bathe our son Levi. I remember waiting for you to get home from work so that we could do it together. I thought it would be sweet to give our boy a bath together, but to be honest, I was afraid to do it alone. For the most part, you did all the hard work, which was holding our son and putting soap on him without getting it in his little eyes, while I was there to assist with what you needed.

In your still early fatherhood journey, I already have witnessed you change your first diaper, make your first feeding bottle out of frozen packages of milk that I stored in the fridge to make feeding our son easier, and witness Levi’s first words: “Mama”, “Dada” and “Ball”. We even saw Levi’s first steps together. When he was eight months old, youtook him to get his first hair cut. You and I took Levi to his first trip to Disneyland. For me, all of these moments, and millions more, are wonderful memories. 

I know not everyday for you as a father is fun. I’ve also seen you go through the times when we had sleepless nights because Levi was sick. Sometimes you may not know what to do, but at least you try, and that is what makes you a great dad.

I know that the first year was hard for us as first-time parents. I don’t know how many times I cried at night because of all the things we’ve been through for Levi. So many doctor visits, so many emergency visits, specialist visits and hospital visits. We both did not expect any of this, but through many unfamiliar circumstances, you were a pillar of strength.

Watching you become a father has been like watching someone unveil a hidden talent they did not even know they had. You are protective of our son; you are loving to our son; you are considerate and sacrificial. Even though Levi is not old enough to see the sacrifices you make for him, I see them every day. Just like working long hours at a job that I know is not easy. Or quitting one of your favorite hobbies, like collecting vintage Pokemon cards.

Our relationship has definitely changed since becoming parents, but for the better. So many mommy friends have told me how having a baby can change your relationship, but I feel like we’ve been stronger than ever, and I’m grateful for that. I love how understanding, caring, and supportive you are.

I’m so happy with you and our little family. It’s been an amazing two years. Some of my favorite parts of the day are when we all lay in bed together and put on Sesame Street for Levi, or when we play hide and seek with him. Just to be able to see the smiles on all of our faces makes my heart feel at peace.

 I’m thankful that you are my co-parent because your excitement and commitment inspire me every day. I’m also thankful that parenthood has allowed me to see you clearly and fully.

And I’m thankful for the moments still to come—both big and ordinary—that will continue to give me new reasons to fall more deeply in love with you. Thank you for this journey. 

Happy Father’s Day!

Read our last stories for this special day here