Tonight’s entry in the #40Days40Dads project<\/a> comes from a colleague of mine who is a brilliant photographer and has two child models for children.<\/span>1<\/sup><\/a><\/span> I’ve also spent many long car rides with Rich on various work trips, and he is one of the most fun and downright goofiest<\/span>2<\/sup><\/a><\/span> people I’ve ever met. It’s really intriguing for me to read his answers and see him in Dad Mode. Sounds like his kids are in good hands. Thanks a lot, Rich!<\/p>\n Rich is the father of a 6-year-old girl and a 3-year-old boy.<\/strong><\/p>\n What was the moment when you first felt like a father?<\/strong><\/p>\n I guess the moment was when our daughter was born. We didn’t tell anybody what name we picked out until I got to have all family in the room and say it for the first time. To do that and see the reaction from my family was the moment I felt that this was my child and I was the dad. <\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n What’s your favorite part about being a father?<\/strong><\/p>\n Getting home after a trip and getting the big hugs to welcome me home. Reading to them, playing with them. Putting them to bed. <\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n What’s the hardest part about being a father?<\/strong><\/p>\n Patience. Learning to be a peacemaker. When my child needs to be disciplined, my reaction is key to them. If I am harsh, it’s not always the best thing. I have learned recently to be gentle to them, and tell them this is not the best way to act.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n What’s the dumbest\/funniest thing that your kid has cried about or fought with you over?<\/strong><\/p>\n Trying food. We have a very picky eater. Getting them to try it is like the worst thing for them. even if it’s Mexican food or sweet potato fries.<\/span>3<\/sup><\/a><\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n What are you most proud of having taught\/shared with your kids or what are you most looking forward to teaching\/sharing with them?<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n Teaching them to ride a bike. That feeling that you let them go and they just do it and you are so proud of them. It only happens once and to see it as a parent brings such joy. <\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n What’s your favorite thing about your kids?<\/strong><\/p>\n The love they give me. <\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n If you could go back in time and give yourself a piece of advice when you first became a father, what would you say?<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n Act like a parent. Be kind. If you joke with them and be funny all the time, they will turn into you. And when you see them acting like you as a jokester, it’s not always funny at certain times. <\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n Any other comments to share on fatherhood?<\/strong><\/p>\n Raise your kids to be Godly. Get them in Church. It’s a great community to be a part of. Our kids love Sundays going to church. <\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n#24: Rich<\/h2>\n
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