Before Eva was born, I made a resolution to remember that Dave is just as much Eva's parent as I am, and not to monopolize the baby. I try not to criticize his baby-care methods, since women and men have different styles and balance each other out. I've seen new mothers who have beaten down their husband's efforts so badly that the fathers give up, and then the wives wonder why "he doesn't even attempt to help anymore". I believe I've accomplished my goal pretty well. So what if Dave forgets to use Desitin during a diaper change or gives her a bath with plain water without soap? It may not be how I would do it, but it doesn't hurt anything and Eva thrives despite mistakes either of us may make.
Daddy and baby are completely comfortable with one another, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. From day one, Dave's taken Eva for at least a half-hour in the evenings so I could make dinner or take a long shower. What they do during this Daddy-daughter bonding time is just between them, and it gives me a much-needed break. I never worry about leaving her alone with him, so long as she's not hungry. Daddy can't help her there. (She's been known to leave hickeys on Daddy's shoulder when she wants to nurse). I think we make a good team, and parenting together reduces the stress on our marriage.
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