In the Middle of the Busy
Early Valentine’s moments, temple milestones, and finding meaning in the everyday rhythm of dad life.
It was a full four days — the kind where daycare drop-offs blend into work deadlines and the calendar feels tight. Valentine’s came a day early for us this year. Manicures, pedicures, a long lunch with my partner, and a little shopping for new clothes. It felt good to pause and be intentional — to remember that before we were parents juggling schedules, we were just us.
Saturday brunch with my aunt on the actual Valentine’s Day felt meaningful too. Since we had celebrated the day before, it was nice to spend that time with her — slowing down, talking, sharing a meal. A reminder that love shows up in different forms and different seasons.
And then there’s the baby — officially on a walking spree. Watching him walk across temple on Sunday, small steps but so determined, stopped me for a moment. These are the milestones you don’t realize are milestones until they’re happening right in front of you.
Monday brings no daycare, which means dad duty while mom works. It’s tiring, yes — but it’s also time I won’t get back. Car rides, small adventures, breaking up his day however I can. In the middle of the busy, I’m trying to be present. Because the weeks are full — but so is the heart.