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Returning new dad seeks advice
Submitted by steven.gierhahn on May 19, 2008 - 2:03pm.
Well I am in the Navy and when I left my son Gabriel was only three months old. The navy does training for new dads that will be returning to a new family and the information that they give out is great but not all of it applies to me. I left a newborn and am returning to a playing, moving, bundle of joy at least that is what my wife tells me when I call home. I am seeking advice from the other dads as to how best to fit back into my life. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Needed: LOTS of time together
Thankfully, when I was in the Navy, I was single for my sea-going days. I never wanted my wife (or now, kids) to ever have to deal my absence. While I was in though, I did get to see a lot of guys deal with the same thing you are dealing with and the only advice I have is to spend as much time as you can with your son. Nice thing is, he is still young, but these are also the years you don't want to miss. Whatever time you can spend with him, I would do it. Being together with your wife and son is definitely the most important thing.
I second the "Thank you for serving your country!" and add, "Anchor's away!".
Regards,
Jeff
a few good links
Steven, you probably saw this, but just in case you didn't:
I ran into this Miami Herald article about dads reconnecting with their families: http://www.miamiherald.com/360/story/541842.html
Also check out this dad forum (savvy daddy's new and growing, but these guys more established right now): http://www.brandnewdad.com/forums/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=1284
thanks and question
Steven, first of all, thanks for serving our country. Secondly - quick question that may help others get a sense of your situation - how long have you been away? How old is that playing/moving bundle of joy?
re: thanks and question
Well I have been gone for four months now but I still have about three more months to go before I get home. My son was almost 3 months when I left and will be just a touch over ten months old when I get back.
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