Father’s Day is on the horizon, and this year will bring a fresh perspective for my family and me. Following my separation from my husband earlier this year, several of our cherished family traditions have gradually faded. The cozy Friday night pizzas in front of the TV and leisurely Sundays have been replaced by dining out, managing the children’s schedules, and coordinating our week while being mindful of everyone’s feelings.
However, we have retained some traditions that mean a lot to us, such as our Saturday lunches at our favorite burger spot. I always indulge too much, prompting my ex-husband to shake his head and ask why I put myself through it. But when I suggest ice cream afterward, he happily agrees, never mentioning my earlier complaints about overeating. He understands my stubbornness when it comes to dessert.
Family Outings and Shared Joy
We still enjoy movie outings as a family when the kids want to catch a new release. After a quick stop at the dollar store for candy and drinks, my ex handles the tickets while I sneak past the front desk, reminiscent of a modern-day Bonnie and Clyde.
These outings are a reliable source of joy for all of us, and I don’t foresee that changing anytime soon. One thing that will remain constant is my commitment to honoring my children’s father on Father’s Day. This gesture isn’t solely out of gratitude for his thoughtfulness on Mother’s Day, when he gifted me skincare products I had been eyeing and arranged a lovely meal with our kids. It’s about doing what I believe is right.
A Father’s Unwavering Commitment
He is their father—the only one they will ever have—and he happens to be a fantastic one. Although our marriage didn’t last, it doesn’t diminish his role as a father. His connection with our three children remains unchanged, regardless of our marital status.
He was there for each childbirth, holding my legs while I screamed, convinced I wouldn’t survive delivering his big-headed children without any pain relief. He drove me to the hospital three times, all while I insisted on showering and putting on pearl earrings, even as he urged me to hurry because he wasn’t trained in childbirth.
I witnessed him fall deeply in love with each of our children. I saw my husband hold our newborns, cut their umbilical cords, and shed tears of joy. From diaper changes to rocking them to sleep, he was there through it all, feeding them formula when I transitioned away from breastfeeding. He comforted me during my moments of guilt, assuring me everything would be fine.
Countless nights, he would swaddle them, and I would lie exhausted, watching their silhouettes in the moonlight. Each time I expressed my fatigue, he would reassure me, saying, “It’s okay. I’ll have coffee in the morning, and I’ll be fine. You need your rest.” And I would.
Honoring a Great Father
He has always been an exceptional father. He deserves to feel valued and appreciated, especially on a day dedicated to dads. Our love may not resemble the passion we had on our wedding day, and we are no longer the young couple who envisioned a lifetime together. Yet, we have shared two decades filled with countless experiences, from parties to house hunting, pouring our efforts into our marriage and our children.
We have experienced the best and worst of times together, and while our romantic relationship has ended, I still want to honor him on Father’s Day—this year, and for many more to come. My appreciation for him remains unchanged, just as it did when we were married.
Reflecting on Shared Experiences
In summary, Father’s Day presents an opportunity for me to celebrate the father of my children, acknowledging his unwavering commitment to our family, even after the dissolution of our marriage. It’s a chance to reflect on the shared experiences that have shaped our lives and our children’s lives, reinforcing the importance of recognizing the role he plays, regardless of our relationship status.
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