Pages

Monday, February 4, 2013

Facing 40: I'm Not Normal

My family at Holiday World
By Kevin Hunsperger
@kevinhunsperger on Twitter

The headline probably isn't necessary for readers who actually know me.  But this post isn't about my obsession with wrestling or Smurfs or cheesy 80's movies.   As I get older (I'll be 40 next month), I realize that the journey of life for my family has been much different than what I experienced growing up.  I'm going to attempt to make sense in this blog, but honestly my thoughts are scattered.

My childhood was normal, or at least what I perceive to be as normal.  My parents both worked and worked hard.  They still do.  They loved my brother and I unconditional.  They still do and now that they have daughters-in-law and grandchildren there's even more love to spread.   They were very involved in our schooling and extra curricular activities, something that I've done (or at least tried to as a parent)

Here's the difference.  My wife and I have three kids.  We no longer have that "man-to-man defense."  We're outnumbered and most nights, I'm really outnumbered.  This is a typical week right now: Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, gymnastics, dance, martial arts (starting this week), basketball practice/games, and baseball lessons.  Then there's homework, the occasional band concert, or competition.  I'm not complaining.  I really am not.  Up until recently I questioned my dedication as a parent and wondered if I was doing enough to be a part of my kids' lives.  I've come to the conclusion that I am.  I think.

My wife works most evenings, so it's usually up to me to get everyone where they need to be.  I love that she's home on Wednesday nights as it gives me a midweek break from the action.  Sometimes I have to rely on the help of friends, as it truly does take a village to raise a child.  I've had to cut back on the things I do to.  My schedule at work has changed slightly, but long story short, I get up at 2 a.m. to be at work by 2:30.  The benefit: I'm off usually by 11:15, which allows me time to come home and have some "me time" to write blogs or make YouTube videos.  The downside: With most activities going into the early evening hours, I usually only get about 5 or 5 and a half hours of sleep.

I don't want this post to seem like I'm complaining, but I'm not.  I love my life and wouldn't change anything (except add more hours to the day so I could get a few more hours sleep).  I'm curious to hear how other busy parents do it.  I truly feel for single parents or folks with more than three kids.  I want to be the best dad I can be to my kids, and I think they know I'm there for them.


No comments:

Post a Comment