I have just completed my first year of fatherhood! My daughter Kirra Louise Peace was born on July 4^th 2008 and we celebrated her first birthday with a bang. I know what you’re thinking. Why would you have your baby on Independence Day? We did all we could to avoid it but in the end, Kirra controlled her own destiny. I guess we’ll never be able to know why she chose the day she did as chances are, by the time she can communicate like a human she’ll have forgotten her reasons.

Before Kirra was born, I always had visions of how fatherhood was going to be and how I would tackle certain parenting tasks. For one I never really believed anyone when they tried to tell me how hard it can be. I figured people were just overreacting. Who knew that Kirra was going to be a very active little sparkplug. The typical response when someone hands Kirra back after watching over her is, “She’s so active!” or “I can’t believe how tiring this is!” That’s typically after a brief time with her. Her parents, on the other hand, have to watch over her for every free minute of the day that they possess. Needless to say it’s been exhausting but well worth it!

One thing I never expected was the magical bond that a child and parent seem to just naturally have. The bond is effortless and brings so much joy to us. I don’t think there is anything more satisfying than when Kirra is overjoyed. Her unabashed giggle has taught me that it’s the little things that matter most in life. Inadvertently Kirra has changed me. I am more aware of the impact that my actions have on people.

For anyone out there that doesn’t currently like babies, I say try getting to know a little one. They can teach you so many things that you may have forgotten. The opportunity to be around a baby brings back fond memories of yester year and can make you feel young again. It just may add a little spring to your step.