Parenting

They say parenting changes everything. Having desired to be a parent for decades, I guess i had plenty of time to establish a life which would change. However, I was unprepared for how that change would take place. Surely there were sleepless nights (and I presume more in the future). Yes, stinky diapers, searches for products and programs to aid in the care and development of the little bugger ran rampant. Paternal protectiveness arose, augmenting my already high propensity for such with friends and family. But now, this infant creation is turning into an actual human. Sometimes annoying as hell - both by his requirement for attention as well as the fact it interrupts nearly every facet of my life. And he is developing himself. Many times this means copying me - his dad. But, with increasing frequency, it involves development of his own preferences and procilivities completely separate from any parental influence. And, as he becomes his own person, we are forging a bond that evolves past the parent-child bond. Sometimes i just like to sit near him. I enjoy our conversations. Many times an event or activity - even those not geared towards his majesty - are more enjoyable with his presence than without. I wake thinking about how crabby he will inevitiably be before school, but i still long to see him. I look forward to seeing his face after school. If one can be friends with someone whose care is his responsibility as well as 1/5th as developed as him, then I guess that is what is happening.