And of course I bungle the title, a GOOFY dad indeed.

-EDIT--------

I now see this is an AutoCorrect issue. I take full responsibility.

-EDIT2-------

Just got done putting my littles down, had a good night all things considered, so thought I would try to spread some positivity.

Anyone else find overwhelming levels of joy just goofing off with their kids? I saw a clip of Mr. Roger’s being interviewed by Oprah, he had super poignant quote about the biggest mistake parents make in raising their kids and it hit me like a ton of bricks when I heard it:

“Not to remember their own childhood. I think that the best thing that we can do is to think about what it was like for us and know what our children are going through.”

This is definitely relevant for nearly all of us who are trying our best to empathize with our kids and how they might be dealing with divorce while also working through our own turmoil. But I also hear that quote and think about my fondest memories with my dad from my childhood. And those were always times when we were just… Goofing around. My dad is a pretty serious and quiet guy, so the memories of the times where we were cracking up together really stand out to me.

I just kept my kids up 30 minutes past their bedtime to teach them how to talk like Tony Soprano (the accent, not the curse words). We spent 30 minutes talking about gabagool and yelling at each other to “fuggedaboudit” with the Italian fingers 🤌🏻 and I am on cloud nine right now. It’s something I’ve always strived to do to connect with my kids — just let loose. Do Bandits voice from Bluey while they brush their teeth. Chase them around the kitchen while they try to convince me to let them watch TV in bed. Carry them by their ankles to bed like prisoners while they cackle uncontrollably. It is the absolute highlight of my day.

I get compliments now and again about how I engage with kids, and I realize it’s not for everyone. But if you are finding it difficult to build confidence in your relationship with your kids, just remember this — on your time, you can let your guard down. I used to feel like I had to tone down being the “fun” parent for the sake of my ex, who is very much not the type to just get on the same level with the kids. I don’t know that I’ve ever seen her sit with them and play Barbies or baby doll or dentist whereas I would do that stuff every day if I could.

Well now I can, and that is such a relief. Hope everyone has a good night.