What is a Good Father?

I visited a friend of mine this weekend (himself a newdaddy with an eight-week-old), and it came out that I have this blog (it's not the first thing I tell people and, believe it or not, a good number of my friends have no idea I do this). When I told him it was about parenting, he was surprised, as he assumed it was a blog about how to be a good parent (and I, having only done this for about sixteen months, am in no position to be giving anyone parenting advice). I quickly explained that it was more a "blog-u-mentry" about my experiences as a new father, but it got me thinking: am I a good father? And, if so, or if not, what is a good father?

And here's my answer: I have no idea. But, let me take a crack at it anyway. (After all, I do have the audacity to call some people bad parents.)

A good father simply needs two qualities: first, they have to care about being a father; they have to care about their child and want to be a good father. Because, obviously, if you don't care about your child or your role in their life, you're never going to be good at parenting. Second, you need to have good judgment. No parent knows what they are doing...it's all guesswork. For example, at three weeks, when the baby is crying at 2am and they won't stop, do you give them a binky? Some say yes, as it soothes them and encourages a regular sleep pattern. Some say no, as it will get them addicted and screw up their teeth. I've got a view on the subject; but neither answer is correct. But, to be a good parent, you need to consider the issue and come to a decision based on what you think will ultimately be better for your child. And that really is the best you can do.

Of course, what do I know, I've only been doing this for sixteen months. And, believe me, I'm not saying I'm a good parent...I'd like to think I am, as I know I have the first quality, and think I have the second.

But, then again, this is coming from a guy who lets Bud watch an Elmo DVD regularly...and we all know what doctors say about watching TV before age 2!

P.S. New quote on the sidebar. Also, check out "Life After People" on the History Channel.

The Pacifier

...not the Vin Diesel movie.

Thanks to peter for his suggestion to my "Cry It Out" problem...I think we're going to at least try to see if his "multiple pacifier" approach works before we commit to the "cry it out" approach. In fact, I think Bud is learning to manipulate the Binky...I caught her last night with the side of the binky in her mouth, and then upside-down. It shows that's she's (sorta) catching on.

While we're on the subject of multiple binkys (binkies?)....

Good Parenting Volume 2: Sushibaby!

In honor of Newmommy's triumphant return to the world of sushi, I have added a sushi-link to the "Things to Teach Your Kids" section, as well as the picture below. Newmommy and I took this picture (on our honeymoon) at Sushi Blues on the island of Kuaui.

This is a fine example of introducing your child to world cuisines at a young age. (And, apparently beer...not so sure about that one! "Can I be a boozehound? Not 'till your fifteen....")


P.S. No, this is not The Baby Formerly Known as Bud. (Still working on a nickname.)

Bad Parenting (or Enjoy Your Last Few Weekends)

(Today's Originally Scheduled Post: "Bad Parenting")

In the spirit of being fair and balanced, I give you an example of bad parenting. Let's play a little game called "What's wrong with this picture?"

Right. The kid is wearing Red Sox gear. Bad parenting. Bad, bad parenting.


(Today's Actual Post: "Enjoy Your Last Few Weekends")

As Newmommy and I approach B-day, lots of people are telling me to "enjoy my last few weekends of freedom."

This weekend, I did.

Friday: Yankees over Red Sox 12-4, 14-11.
Saturday: Yankees over Red Sox 13-5.
Sunday: Yankees over Red Sox 8-5.
Monday: Yankees over Red Sox 2-1.

Good Parenting Volume 1: Wassaaappp!

I'd like to begin a feature on Newdaddy called "Good Parenting" which will highlight exemplary parenting skills. (For example, teaching kids the difference between a filet and New York strip, explaining the finer points of the infield fly rule, etc.)

For my first entry: check out this video. Daddy must be so proud.

True, true.