family time Archive

Dads in the Limelight ( #limelightdads ) – Jeff Stephens ( @CrazyDadLife ) #dadchat #dadstalking

– May 16, 2013Posted in: Dads in the Limelight

Our 335th Dad in the Limelight is Jeff Stephens. I want to thank Jeff for being a part of this series. It has been great getting connected with him and now sharing him with all of you.

1) Tell me about yourself, (as well as how you are in the limelight for my readers knowledge)

Hi, my name is Jeff Stephens and I’m a member of an elite squad…dads with daughters. Wish me luck. I live in the Washington DC area and I’m a solutions architect during the day and kid shuttle bus driver at night. I waited quite some time to start my dad website due to my career and basically juggling my crazy family life. I’m very happy that I did though because it’s allowed me to connect with dads all over the world and share war stories as I navigate my daily family chaos. I found that I really don’t have typical hobbies. I don’t kayak mountain bike, or scrapbook. I’m a dad. That is my ‘hobby’ and I believe that is the best hobby anyone could have. You can find my blog over at www.CrazyDadLife.com!

2) Tell me about your family

I met my wife in college and we are coming up on our 20^th anniversary. I think having your best friend and soul mate along for the parenting ride is extremely beneficial. I have 2 girls and my life is hectic. I have a tremendous amount of respect for single parents and for those with 3 or more kids. Hats off! I have no idea how you do it.

My daughters are extremely busy. They both dance competitively and play travel soccer. Both of these activities require a tremendous commitment. My youngest also belongs to multiple chorus clubs, is in the band, and attends all kinds of school activities. My oldest is also on her high school track team, the national honor society, and attends various school events. With all that said, their academics come first. If they can’t maintain their grades, they will have to drop something. So far so good as they are both doing well in school. So, as you can tell, I STAY BUSY.

Jeff Stephens, Dads in the Limelight, #limelightdads, Dad of Divas, dadofdivas.com

3) What has been the largest challenge you have had in being a father?

I think my largest challenges await me. My oldest is 16 and in her sophomore year of high school. She is starting to drive, starting to talk more about boys, and will be getting closer to leaving the house for college. My youngest is 12 and will be entering middle school next year. These are supposedly the toughest years, especially with daughters. So far, everything has been great (knocking heavily on some wood). As they get older, I see a challenge in trying to maintain my closeness with them. By this I mean, when they have boyfriends or other issues that are more personal, will they still look to their dad for help and advice? I already see them gravitating more toward mom for some of these discussions and I don’t want to be marginalized. I want them to know they can talk to dad too. I want to maintain the close relationship with them that I’ve enjoyed over the years.

In previous years the challenge has mostly been with time. It’s very difficult to build a professional career and balance family life. There are definitely skills and strategies you need to employ in order to make it happen without stressing yourself out. My website will provide lessons I’ve learned and I hope to give back to the dad community. I’ve made it through the first 16 years, so I do have some experience. I also really want to reach out to other fathers to see how they’ve been able to do it and to share that information with new dads coming up as well.

Jeff Stephens, Dads in the Limelight, #limelightdads, Dad of Divas, dadofdivas.com

4) What advice would you give to other fathers?

I would give two bits of advice. One, enjoy every single moment. Live in the moment. Take it all in and remember all the silliness, the things they say, how they grow, etc. Before you know it, you’ll be looking at your kid and they will be on the verge of heading off to college. Enjoy those simple moments when you are just walking through the mall, or stopping to get a slurpee, or getting that hug and scream of ‘Daddy!’ when you walk in the door.

Two, don’t stress. There are too many people in the world that stress themselves out, and many times it really isn’t warranted. Relax and enjoy the ride. I know that can sometimes be easier said than done and everyone has issues in their lives. But, think of all the great things you have in your life and how it could be so much worse. Look around at your beautiful kids and think about how they think about you and look to you for guidance and leadership. I know this all sounds pretty corny and ‘self-help’ish but I’m very passionate about fatherhood.

5) Seeing that you (or your position) are in the limelight, how have you come to balance parenthood and outside life? If you are currently not in the limelight per se, please still answer this in regards to how you balance parenthood and outside life.

As mentioned earlier, this is one of the biggest challenges. I work extremely hard at my job. I’ve had periods where we’ve implemented systems and I work 12-15 hour days, leave work to take kids to events, head home and help them with homework, help feed them, get them to bed, then work more after they’ve fallen asleep. I get up the next day and do it all over again. There has to be a balance though. You cannot fully engulf yourself at your job and disregard your family. You must be there for them, otherwise things will go bad. You often hear about dads that spend all their time at the office and their kids barely know them. Having success in my corporate career, and worked crazy hours along the way, I don’t see how this should ever happen. You have to MAKE time for family. You may have to stay up later at night to finish your work, but make the sacrifice earlier in the day for them. As an example, the other night I got home and had a load of work to do. My youngest asked me if I could help her study for her test on the Revolutionary War. I found myself wanting to say no since I had things I had to do for me. But I didn’t. I sat down with her and we knocked it out in a half hour or so and I still had time for what I had to do, even if it meant I got a half hour less sleep that night.

6) What have you learned from the fathers that you have interacted with?

I’ve really just started scratching the surface with dads in the online space. From those fathers that I’ve talked with and got to know via my daughter’s activities, I’ve learned we are all wrapped up in a crazy vortex of schedule madness. Most dads are constantly trying to do right for their kids while sacrificing in their own lives. I see dads stop working out, stop hanging out with friends, and stop (or in my case never having) a hobby. While it’s important to maintain some time for yourself, I also look on with admiration at the number of men being there for their kids. I’ve learned there are a lot of good men out there serving as role models for their kids and being that strong influence and participant in their kids’ lives.

7) What else would you share regarding your experiences as a father thus far?

Try to remember how your tone and reaction are received. Sometimes after I say something to my kids and it has been a few minutes, I wonder if HOW I just spoke came off as annoyed or bothered by them. I try to think of how they received what I just said. I don’t want them to think I’m annoyed with them, or that I don’t have time to answer their question, or it doesn’t mean anything to me. I struggle with this from time to time. I do give short terse answers sometimes and will occasionally act like they are bothering me. I feel bad after the fact and wish I would’ve shown more patience up front. I’m a very patient person and I pride myself on that fact, but sometimes I don’t show it. I guess I’d say to try to take a minute before you respond because your words can mean a lot to a little kid looking up to you.

Jeff Stephens, Dads in the Limelight, #limelightdads, Dad of Divas, dadofdivas.com

I also recommend getting them involved in activities from an early age. While my daughters maintain a crazy schedule, I’d much rather have that than have them sitting around all day or getting into trouble. You’ll hear it all the time. Kids in sports or other extracurricular activities are usually not the ones getting into trouble. They are too busy! When they do participate in sports or other activities, let them explore their passions. Don’t force them to do something because you like it or you want them to be the best in the world. Let them try it and if they don’t like it, move on to the next thing. When they do get involved in an activity, embrace it. For example, I was never a soccer fan prior to my daughters playing. Once they started, I became engaged, explored the sport, learned the intricacies, and now I’m a huge fan. They will always remember, and constantly remind me, that I wouldn’t even like soccer if it wasn’t for them.

8) What have been the most memorable experiences that you have had thus far as a parent?

This is a terribly hard question. I have memorable experiences every day with my kids. From the simple stuff like surprising my daughter at her elementary school and having lunch with her, to watching their faces light up on Christmas morning. Looking over at them as they work on their homework. Watching from afar as they carry on a conversation and laugh with friends. Looking in the rear view mirror and seeing her gazing out the window, wondering what she might be thinking. Watching them execute difficult dance moves, play a song on a new instrument, or carve a pumpkin. Every day is an experience.

If you have any questions for Jeff, please leave a comment here and I will make sure that he gets them so that he may be able to respond!

Also, do you know a Dad in the Limelight? If so, please email me their contact information so that they too can be a part of this series!

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Dads in the Limelight ( #limelightdads ) – R.C. White ( @AuthorRCWhite ) #dadchat #dadstalking

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– May 12, 2013Posted in: Dads in the Limelight

Our 334th Dad in the Limelight is author R.C. White. I want to thank R.C. for being a part of this series. It has been great getting connected with him and now sharing him with all of you.

1) Tell me about yourself, (as well as how you are in the limelight for my readers’ knowledge)

I am a career businessman in the petrochemical industry. An engineer by education, most of that career has been in progressive marketing positions, but the culmination was as a CEO of a multi-million dollar manufacturing company in the Houston, TX area. Perhaps the career highlight was being featured in a front-page article in The Wall Street Journal. Prior to Amanda: Papa’s Story, my main compositions had been scripts for short church dramas (and of course business writing – boring!). I suppose my only “limelight” is being fortunate enough for my book to have been chosen as a finalist in the 2012 Inspiring Voices Book Publishing Contest presented by Guideposts.

2) Tell me about your family

My life-long soulmate is my wife of 43 years, and still counting. I have two terrific daughters, a son-in-law that couldn’t be any better, and two precious angels for granddaughters, one of which is the basis for Amanda in the book. (Yes, there will be another book based on Brittany, the other granddaughter.)

RC White, Dads in the Limelight, #limelightdads, Dad of Divas. dadofdivas.com 3) What has been the largest challenge you have had in being a father?

My initial response to this question is “simply being a father.” There is no greater challenge. The most difficult task may have been maintaining open and constant communications with my children. As long as they were willing to listen to me and I to them, extending each other at least some credibility, then I felt that I had some ability to influence their behavior.

4) What advice would you give to other fathers?

Don’t mistake an isolated event for a trend. Observe the child’s actions and recognize trends. Focus on and manage those activities and don’t overreact to the isolated events. Above all, listen to what the child says, and doesn’t say. I would also recommend paying attention to the little things that may seem insignificant to the father; they may be huge in the eyes of the child.

RC White, Dads in the Limelight, #limelightdads, Dad of Divas. dadofdivas.com
5) Seeing that you (or your position) are in the limelight, how have you come to balance parenthood and outside life? If you are currently not in the limelight per se, please still answer this in regards to how you balance parenthood and outside life.

I have never considered myself in any limelight, although some might equate a successful career as esteemable. However, I view balancing parenthood and outside life, which in my case would be career, as a continuous shifting of priorities. It is all too easy to put our careers ahead of family; we justify it by saying we are preparing for a better future for ourselves and our family. That’s a cop out. We must make time for our families and their priorities; it’s the one thing we can’t take back and it’s the most valuable balancing tool we have. It is a cliché but how many people would say on their deathbed, “I wish I had more time to spend with my work.” In the face of a real conflict where a choice has to be made, I can always resume or even change careers but I would never, never want to change families.

RC White, Dads in the Limelight, #limelightdads, Dad of Divas. dadofdivas.com
6) What have you learned from the fathers that you have interacted with?

That I still have much to learn! We never complete the journey to parenthood. Although my children are both grown and working in their own careers, I can still learn what I should have done by observing their successes with their children and perhaps applying that to grandparenting. Many years ago in business school, we learned principles through case studies. I can still observe, analyze and apply. And my granddaughters can now be the beneficiaries.

RC White, Dads in the Limelight, #limelightdads, Dad of Divas. dadofdivas.com 7) What else would you share regarding your experiences as a father thus far?

Paraphrasing a familiar quote, success is when preparation and luck come together. We should never stop preparing. Events do not define us; it’s how we react to those events that defines us, and our reaction is always better when we are prepared. I still incur new events, both as a father and as a grandfather. And regret is a terrible thing with which to live. I’d better be as prepared as I can be to handle whatever my family brings.

8) What have been the most memorable experiences that you have had thus far as a parent?

At the top of the list is becoming a grandfather; the thrill of such new excitement entering the family is incomparable. In a pure parental role, however, my most memorable experience has been seeing my two daughters develop into responsible contributors to society, to be givers and not takers. Probably the proudest I have ever been as a parent was on the occasion when my older daughter elected not to “follow the crowd” but to call the police at a close friend’s party when drugs and alcohol were jeopardizing their safety.

If you have any questions for R.C., please leave a comment here and I will make sure that he gets them so that he may be able to respond!

Also, do you know a Dad in the Limelight? If so, please email me their contact information so that they too can be a part of this series!

Dads in the Limelight ( #limelightdads ) – Bruce Linton ( @fathersforum ) #dadchat #dadstalking

dadofdivas

– May 9, 2013Posted in: Dads in the Limelight

Our 333rd Dad in the Limelight is Dr. Bruce Linton . I want to thank Bruce for being a part of this series. It has been great getting connected with him and now sharing him with all of you.

1) Tell me about yourself, (as well as how you are in the limelight for my readers knowledge)

Thank you for including me in your “Dad’s in the Limelight.” Hello, my name is Bruce Linton. I am the father of two adult children ages 31 and 27 both who are married…on their own and off the payroll! When my kids where born there were not many resources for dads and I started a program called “Fathers’ Forum.” Fathers” Forum is founded on the belief that dads talking about fatherhood together can be a great resource for understanding all the changes and challenges we go through when we become fathers. I have often said “Five dads in a group together, talking, is like reading 15 parenting books!” For over twenty five years I have been leading groups and doing workshops for dads. I am a Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I received my Ph.D. for my research on “Men’s Development as Fathers.” My most recent book (April 2012) is “Becoming a Dad, How Fatherhood Changes Men.” In January 2013 I launched NewDadsNetwork.com a private social network for dads. “NDN” is my effort to extend my work with the Fathers’ Forum to a larger audience and a way to make dad to dad support available to men regardless of location or time constraints. Even 10 minutes a week spent on the network connecting with other fathers appears to be of great value for dads. Feeling less isolated and sharing with a group of dads your experience of fatherhood reduces our fears makes parenting less stressful and more enjoyable and allows us as men to elevate the status of fatherhood in our lives.

2) Tell me about your family

My kids are both married so now I have 4 kids…including my wonderful son-in-law and fantastic daughter-in-law. I am a lucky man! I was married for 23 years and then divorced, which was difficult for all of us. I have been with my sweetheart Carolyn for over 10 years and she has two adult kids herself…so lots of family for us. I also have two sisters, a brother and a bunch of cousins I am close with. I often think of my parents who were married fro 65 years and although they have both passed away I still feel like they are with me and inspiring me about life. I have a group of men friends who are also family and “uncle’s” to my kids. I would agree it takes a village to raise a child and I encourage everyone to find one or create one if they can.
3) What has been the largest challenge you have had in being a father?

When I became a dad my wife and I co-parented our kids. Each of us working half time. The challenge of not pursuing my career but spending my time as a dad, involved in the day to day of kids was a challenge. But it was the single best decision I have made in my life. Whether as a room parent or baseball coach or just driving and picking up the kids from school…those were the best moments. My wife at the time worked every other weekend so me and the kids had lots of adventures together and I just enjoyed it all. The greatest challenges was that everyone at that time referred to me as a dad “mothering” because they were not use to seeing a dad who also was also a primary parent. I am just back from Dad Summit 2.0 and glad to see how far we have come as men to now value our roles as fathers and the world seeing we can do it!

4) What advice would you give to other fathers?

To other dads I would say. By being the best dad you can be you will develop and grow as a person in ways that will surprise you. You may discover a quality of connection and love, a dependence that may both scare you and allow you feel the really depth and beauty of being a parent and part of a family. The five things ever father need to know is patience, patience, patience, patience and the fifth thing is patience. Trust your good judgment and do what is best for your family. Every dad and family is different. We may all have similar challenges…how to get kids to bed…or how can I help my kid prepare for college…but we all have to find our own unique way to do it. Ask other dads for their perspectives and help. Always ask for help…it is what “real men” do.

I have chosen to put my family first and allow my work to fit into my schedule around my family’s needs. Not impossible to do but I certainly did not do as well financially or professionally as I might of. But I am satisfied. I also became very good at rubbing to nickels together to make a quarter. I think I was focused on what was important to me personally and was not overly concerned about what other people may have thought about my choices. It has been the “road less traveled” but as the Frost poem says “that has made all the difference.” I think also having a career as a counselor/therapists gave me options and flexibility that I am very thankful about.

Bruce Linton, Dads in the Limelight, #limelightdads, Dad of Divas, dadofdivas.com
6) What have you learned from the fathers that you have interacted with?

The most important thing I learned is that I am not alone in the struggles and challenges of fatherhood.
7) What else would you share regarding your experiences as a father thus far?

As Steve Jobs has written on his headstone…”Live your own life.” Dig deep into your own heart and make the choices that are best for you. Balance your work/family life in the way that is best for you. Don’t let anyone judge you for working too much or to little.
8) What have been the most memorable experiences that you have had thus far as a parent?

Most recent my kid’s weddings have been very, very, moving. I think back with fondness at our 15 years of going to Yosemite National Park every Presidents Holiday for winter fun, and summers for 12 years at Pinecrest Lake. Such special times. Our drives to Los Angels with Bob Marley singing “The Harder they Come” on our car stereo when we would drive to visit my parents and spend time at Laguna Beach.
If you have any questions for Bruce, please leave a comment here and I will make sure that he gets them so that he may be able to respond!

Also, do you know a Dad in the Limelight? If so, please email me their contact information so that they too can be a part of this series!

Dads in the Limelight ( #limelightdads ) – Jason Law ( @dad_ally ) #dadchat #dadstalking

dadofdivas

– May 5, 2013Posted in: Dads in the Limelight

Our 332nd Dad in the Limelight is Jason Law. I want to thank Jason for being a part of this series. It has been great getting connected with him and now sharing him with all of you.

1) Tell me about yourself, (as well as how you are in the limelight for my readers knowledge)

My name is Jason Law. I am 31 years old and a new father of a 1 1/2 year old son. I work in the advertising industry specifically digital / internet related. I am the oldest of my family, with one sister who has two sons. I live in Michigan and enjoy the outdoors and photography. I run the website Dad Ally (http://www.dadally.com). It is aimed at fathers in helping them with information and my own personal stories of fatherhood. Ideally I envision it as an Ally to help fathers in the real world fight for their equal rights in the Mom dominated world of advertising and parenthood.

2) Tell me about your family

I am married to my beautiful wife Nicole (1 1/2 years). We have a son who was born on 12/26/2012. We are a new family but are enjoying all the time we get and are learning all the in’s and outs of being new parents. My wife is going to school full time and is in her 3rd year of doctoral school for her Psy-D.

3) What has been the largest challenge you have had in being a father?

The biggest challenge I have had with being a father is that I work in a busy industry. An industry known for working late nights and at home at times. With that I feel the struggle of balancing work and life at home. I hear all of the things that my son is doing / learning on a day to day basis and at times feel guilty that I can not be there for all of these new steps that he makes into life.

4) What advice would you give to other fathers?

Take everything in, take pictures, movies, mental images. They grow up fast. Also don’t take things personally. At times when our son is crying or is upset and I feel like he doesn’t want me to help him, his mom is able to comfort him and get him the things he needs. Believe me, it’s hard to feel like you can’t help, but just to know that there is someone who is there that can love him and help with his needs is a life-saver. Also take care of your wife! A happy wife is a happy family and in return you will feel more loved by everyone. That time of

feeling like you are number 1 is gone. It’s not coming back and you have to realize that. The most important person in your life is now your child, and having a happy and loving wife will make everyone happy and safe.

Jason Law, Dads in the Limelight, #limelightdads, Dad of Divas, dadofdivas.com

I have to take the time that I have and really focus on that. Get rid of all the

other distractions and things getting in the way of preventing me from spending the quality time I have with my family. Work will always be there, it seems to be waiting and always trying to butt it’s way in. However family time and the milestones that your child will reach will not always be there. The first time our son laughed or looked right into my eyes and coo’d were a great moment and I was happy that I was able to experience that.

6) What have you learned from the fathers that you have interacted with?

That you take everything with stride and do your best to be the father who you want to be, not the one you are told you should be. It’s hard sometimes to get out of that perfect image of what a father should and be. In reality your child just wants you to be yourself.

7) What else would you share regarding your experiences as a father thus far?

Take a dad’s class before having your child. I took one and took it very seriously. There were fathers there that were not, and made a joke about it. I

feel this is my first job in life. Taking care of a person who needs you and doesn’t have the capabilities to do so themselves is in a sense a very hard job and if you can gain some advice from fathers who have gone through the tough times and can provide you help, take it!

8) What have been the most memorable experiences that you have had thus far as a parent?

Waking up every morning and having my son sleep on my chest before going off to work. It is a time that I look forward to and will be hard to give up once he get’s older. It is our bonding time every morning.

If you have any questions for Jason, please leave a comment here and I will make sure that he gets them so that he may be able to respond!

Also, do you know a Dad in the Limelight? If so, please email me their contact information so that they too can be a part of this series!

Enjoy a Star Filled Night With a Doc McStuffins #giveaway

dadofdivas

– May 4, 2013Posted in: giveaway

Last night was a beautiful clear night, the first we have had in some time. Because of this we decided to have a stargazing night as a family. We went outside to study the stars. Using my home telescope as well as a few apps that I have on my phone I was able to share with my kids a ton of information about the vast universe that surrounds us. I could see their eyes growing so large and seeing that we live a little outside of town we were able to see so much more than we would with the light pollution that some other people that I know have.

After doing this we surprised the kids by having placed some glow in the dark stars on the bedroom ceiling of their rooms. They were ecstatic! The look of excitement on their faces was priceless!

If you have never had a stargazing night as a family you definitely should… it will definitely open their eyes to how large our universe truly is!

Giveaway

Stargazing with Doc & Friends – Inspired by the Arcade Escapade / Starry, Starry Night episode, enjoy a Doc McStuffins Stargazing Kit with your family as your child/children learns about the magical night sky with Doc and her friends!

How would you like to win this Stargazing prize pack for yourself or for your family? All you need to do is fill out the below form to be entered. The contest will run for one week and will end on May 11, 2013.

Winner must be a resident of the U.S or Canada.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Winners are chosen at random, if you want all your chances counted, make sure you leave individual comments, not all of them in one!

Winner has 48 hours to contact me or another name will be chosen.

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company. Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site’s Disclaimer for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Dads in the Limelight ( #limelightdads ) – Marc Block ( @marcblock_la ) #dadchat #dadstalking

dadofdivas

– May 2, 2013Posted in: Dads in the Limelight

Our 331st Dad in the Limelight is Marc Block. I want to thank Marc for being a part of this series. It has been great getting connected with him and now sharing him with all of you.

Marc Block, Dads in the Limelight #limelightdads, Dad of Divas, dadofdivas.com

1) Tell me about yourself, (as well as how you are in the limelight for my readers knowledge)

The name of my blog is Divided Dad. By that I mean I am a have multiple roles: part-time single parent, full-time employee, and sometime boyfriend. We all play different roles in our lives, so I don’t think I’m special, but it means I can relate to your readers’ issues, concerns, fears, joys and challenges, whether you are a single, married, divorced or something in between. I work in the social media space for a company that does a lot of work in the blog space, which is how I came to be a blogger myself. I recognize better than most brands how important the “dad” is in today’s marketplace. I value the connection with the writers of the blogs I follow, as well as the readers of my (nascent) blog. My job with a social media agency puts me on both sides of the equation, so to speak. I am a blogger, but my job is also to work with brands to connect them with, and activate, influential bloggers around their brands. I think I have a unique perspective.

Marc Block, Dads in the Limelight #limelightdads, Dad of Divas, dadofdivas.com

2) Tell me about your family

I am “forty-something” and I have two children who are 12 and almost 9. I am divorced and have joint custody of my kids, which really means nothing, because I believe I’m a dad 24/7, whether they are with me or not. I certainly never stop thinking about them and never know when the phone will ring or a text will come through from their mom asking for help when they are not physically with me. My ex and I were totally committed from the start to put our differences aside for the benefit of the kids. This has meant always being available to each other, living close to each other, accommodating each other’s schedules, and being true co-parents. So far, it’s working.
3) What has been the largest challenge you have had in being a father?

By far, it’s being divorced and what that has meant in terms of managing the work/life balance. Even a simple thing like a business dinner can require juggling the schedule. My ex is there as backup when things come up that are just insurmountable, but I can’t over-play that card. I have never taken a job that I felt would compromise my ability to be the dad I want to be. The other challenge is the need to play the different roles required to be a father to a girl and a boy. You almost need to be two different people, because they have such different needs. And nobody gave me a manual for either!

Marc Block, Dads in the Limelight #limelightdads, Dad of Divas, dadofdivas.com
4) What advice would you give to other fathers?

It’s really simple. Make “being there” a priority. I can guarantee you, nobody ever said on their deathbed “I with I had spent more time away from home and less time with my kids.”

I think this “balance” is the proverbial $64,000 question for dads today who want to play a major parental role, or are forced to because they are in a two-income household, or even for stay-at-home dads who want a life beyond their role as primary caregiver. I make every effort not to put myself in a position where I have to choose between being a great dad and serving a corporate overlord, or sacrificing my relationship with my kids in any way to accommodate someone I am dating. I make clear that my kids come first. That might sound dramatic, but I’m not my father’s version of a father. Has this hindered my career? Maybe…I’ll never know. I just know I’m doing what feels natural to me.

Marc Block, Dads in the Limelight #limelightdads, Dad of Divas, dadofdivas.com
6) What have you learned from the fathers that you have interacted with?

I’ve learned we are all dealing with the same issues and it’s amazing that so many dads want to be such a part of their kids’ lives. The difference between my generation and the prior generation is exponential, not incremental. I think my generation is the tipping point of male involvement in parenting. And marketers are finally beginning to catch on, which makes it an interesting time for me, as a dad, dad blogger and marketer.

7) What else would you share regarding your experiences as a father thus far?

I think it’s easy as a single dad to just try to get through this part of my life. Instead, I want to be a conscientious father. This means reflecting on how I parent rather than just “getting through it” – even though often it feels like just getting through it is an accomplishment! Being a blogger plays an important role in this “conscientious” thing I referred to. Sitting down to write a post forces me to reflect on what I’m doing as a dad. I can’t share my thoughts with others if I haven’t processed them first myself. Also, I know my children won’t fully appreciate everything I have done for them or given them or taught them until they are much older, so most of our “work” results in delayed gratification from that perspective. But I get plenty of joy out of the day-to-day experiences, which is important, too.

8) What have been the most memorable experiences that you have had thus far as a parent?

Hands down, the most memorable two moments were the births of my two children. It sounds cliché, but it’s true. For the first one, the doctor was late because it was snowing in NYC, so it was just the nurse and me until my daughter was already crowning. When the nurse told me to grab my wife’s leg and pull it to the side I thought she was joking. Seeing that little hairy head emerge was just incredible. Making another human being is the single most incredible thing we can do as humans and why men will always worship women. Beyond that I really do try to enjoy the every day experiences, because those are the ones that just slip away.

If you have any questions for Marc, please leave a comment here and I will make sure that he gets them so that he may be able to respond!

Also, do you know a Dad in the Limelight? If so, please email me their contact information so that they too can be a part of this series!

Great Wolf Resorts Announces Largest Resort-wide Expansion in History

dadofdivas

– April 30, 2013Posted in: announcement

Great Wolf Lodge… Sandusky (Photo credit: ?erry)

Just in time for summer vacation planning, Great Wolf Resorts, Inc., is adding more new attractions and guest experiences to its indoor waterpark resorts than ever before. With this multimillion dollar investment, guests visiting any of the 11 Great Wolf Lodge properties this year will discover something new, from water slides and dining, to shopping and interactive attractions.

“We are focused on providing fun-filled experiences for the entire family in the waterpark and throughout the entire resort,” said Tim Black, chief operating officer, Great Wolf Resorts. “This year our guests will find something new at each of our properties. Our goal is to create memorable vacations for guests of all ages and these brand-wide additions are great examples of how we do just that.”

For a peek into what’s new – follow the wolf tracks across the map:

Great Wolf Lodge in Grapevine, Texas (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

New Water Thrills in Michigan

The Great Wolf Lodge experience starts in the waterpark, and this summer the resort in Traverse City, MI will offer a brand new way to get wet. For families who have always wanted to try whitewater rafting, this new attraction offers the perfect opportunity! The River Canyon Run takes parties of three to four people at a time sliding and winding down a long indoor tunnel that stretches outside the resort and then back in, culminating in a final splash. This exciting new addition to the waterpark will soon be the “must do” attraction for families.

The fun in Michigan continues once everyone dries off. Newly added to several resorts last year,Ten Paw Alley bowling is coming to Traverse City, complete with balls that are perfect for little hands. The six lane alley, with a “no rental shoes allowed” policy will soon debut at the resort. And because life deserves more than one “scooop” – the resort is expanding Scooops Kid Spa, where young girls can enjoy even more ice cream-themed manicure and pedicure services in the sweet place that is all their own.

Howl at the Moon Glow Golf

Kids no longer have to ask for permission to play under the evening moon and stars thanks to the new Howl at the Moon Glow Golf experience. New to the Great Wolf Lodge resort in the Pocono Mountains, PAin late 2012, this unique indoor miniature golf experience is expanding toGrand Mound, WA and Mason, OHin May.Familieswill putt their way through a forest filled with woodland creatures, glowing golf balls and howls of delight.

Great Wolf Lodge (Photo credit: Klobetime)

The Great Wolf Kids Store

Wiley the Wolf and his five lovable friends will soon have a shop that’s all their own. The shopping experience will feature “Creation Stations” so children can stuff their own Great Wolf Kids character to take home. Guests will also be able to decorate “like me” shirts – one to wear and one to share with their new stuffed friend. The stores celebrate the Great Wolf Kids characters and will feature exclusive new character-branded souvenirs and gifts. The Great Wolf Kids Store will open at the resorts in Grand Mound, WA; Mason, OH; Williamsburg, VA; Concord, NC; andthe Pocono Mountains, PAin May.

Dining is a Howl

Eating is more fun than ever as Great Wolf Lodge continues to enhance its food offerings company-wide. A day of play at the Great Wolf Lodge waterpark can leave you “Hungry as a Wolf” and ready to eat! This new family-style dining option allows guests to pick up and go with a meal that’s as focused on value as it is on taste at the resorts in Grand Mound, WA, Grapevine, TXand Concord, NC.

One of the joys of summer is dining outsideand for guests at the Great Wolf Lodge in Grapevine, TX, the brand new Grilloffers an All-American bar and grill experience, overlooking the outdoor pool – but comfortably in the shade!

Cincinnati (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Guests who love early morning breakfast from Dunkin’ Donuts® will soon just need to head to the lobby. Joining the Great Wolf Lodge in Concord, NC, the famous brand will open a location in the Williamsburg, VA and Traverse City, MI resorts.

Breakfast is no longer just for dining; it’s also a great time for photos and friends in Grand Mound, WA with the debut of the Wake up with Wiley (and Friends) character breakfast buffet. The new dining experience will bring the Great Wolf Lodge characters together each morning for a breakfast that is as delicious as it is fun.

Wolf Your World with the Ultimate Great Wolf Lodge Getaway

Even the Great Wolf Lodge family of characters is expanding. Wiley the Wolf, Violet the Wolf and Oliver Raccoon are welcoming three new friends to their Pack and hitting the road this summer to celebrate. Guests can follow their paw prints across North America as new characters Rachel the Raccoon, Brinley Bear and Sammy the Squirrel spread “random acts of wolfiness” everywhere they go. Kicking off Memorial Day weekend, the full Pack will take part in community events, visit national landmarks and hand out tens of thousands of wolf ears! Each set of ears will include information telling everyone howto can enter for the chance to win the Ultimate Great Wolf Lodge Getaway, complete with a two night stay for 25 people and a banquet for the entire “Pack” at the Great Wolf Lodge of the winner’s choice! By summer’s end, the nation will be howling! Guests will be able be to follow the Pack during their summer trip by logging on to wolfyourworld.com.

Comfort, technology and planning

In addition to the many new attractions and entertainment options, Great Wolf Resorts continues to enhance the guest experience in softer ways. The resorts in the Pocono Mountains, PA, Williamsburg, VA, and Traverse City, MIwill receive the exclusive new Great Wolf Lodge Cabin Comfort Collection mattresses, new sleeper sofas and carpet in all of the guest suites. There are 3,000 new televisions that will be added across the brand along with energy-saving automatic thermostats in guest suites. These are all just a few examplesof how Great Wolf Lodge continues to keep its resorts modern, inviting and comfortable.

Great-Wolf-Lodge

To help guests plan their Great Wolf Lodge getaway, enhancements in technology play an important part. With the swipe of a finger, guests can now book their stay on the Great Wolf Lodge mobile website. For those still in the planning stage, the new Great Wolf Lodge Explorer app takes guests on a fly-thru tour of the lodge, so they can see, and even hear,all the waterpark has to offer. The free app can be downloaded on tablets and mobile phones. Kids will love the new greatwolfkids.com site that was created just for them. Complete with downloadables for the car trip, online games and podcasts of the brand new Great Wolf Lodge storybooks, kids can get in on the vacation planning long before the car leaves the driveway. And for parents, vacationplanning has never been easier with the help of the fully interactive Great Wolf Lodge website, complete with online chat assistance, videos, discounts and special offers.

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Dads in the Limelight ( #limelightdads ) – Keith Alexander #dadchat #dadstalking

dadofdivas

– April 28, 2013Posted in: Dads in the Limelight

Our 330th Dad in the Limelight is Keith Alexander. I want to thank Keith for being a part of this series. It has been great getting connected with him and now sharing him with all of you.

If you’re interested, here are the questions. Please answer them to the best of your ability:
Keith Alexander, Dads in the Limelight Series, Dad of Divas, dadofdivas.com 1) Tell me about yourself

I am a single father of Hannah my 11-year old daughter. I grew up in the Humboldt Park area of Chicago in the 1970’s & 80’s. I am a third generation Artist. I recently completed a memoir entitled ”Forgery of the Month Club”. The memoir details my unconventional upbringing by my mother who was a burglar and art forger. With no one else to rely on and unaware of how to relate to my emotions, I emulated my mother, eventually moving away. When my daughter was born with serious health issues in 2001, I used what I learned growing up to shepherd Hannah through her illnesses.
2) Tell me about your family

I was divorced in 2011. My family consists of myself and my daughter Hannah Lael Marguerite. My mother is from Minneapolis. Her father, Arnie was a Jew, who was born in Latvia in 1902. In Minneapolis he became an aeronautical engineer in the 1920’s. On the paternal side of my family, my great, great grandfather was named Albert Fowler. He was a slave in Natchez, Mississippi, who joined the union army during the Civil War.
3) What has been the largest challenge you have had in being a father?

The biggest challenge came when Hannah was born in September 2001 with several health issues involving her heart, lungs, and bones. Her mother and I took Hannah home after three weeks in the NICU. After two weeks at home, we returned her to the hospital for open heart surgery. It was difficult to hand her perfect body to a total stranger, knowing that when we next saw her, she would have incisions and tubes going in and coming out of her. Because of many complications, and additional surgeries Hannah had to endure after that initial surgery, we did not bring her back home until early December 2001. From then until 2009, Hannah had a tracheostomy tube, and because of that, she was unable to cry or speak except using sign language. For eight years, ur house was filled with medical supplies, medical equipment and round the clock nursing. Before Hannah was born, there was no indication that Hannah would be anything but a healthy baby. We were caught unprepared, and my wife and I had to learn everything about nursing all at once. We were ordinary people undergoing extraordinary stress for a sustained period of time. Hannah is now in 5^th grade and is learning Hebrew, and how to ride and care for horses.
4) What advice would you give to other fathers?

Learn how your mind works; become emotionally aware of what you are feeling, and understand that following one’s feelings does not always empower one to be the best father one can be. I would also suggest to fathers who are in the midst of unexpected emotional strain to take it moment by moment.
5) Seeing that you (or your position) are in the limelight, how have you come to balance parenthood and outside life? If you are currently not in the limelight per se, please still answer this in regards to how you balance parenthood and outside life.

I cherish the time I have with Hannah, and because I am a single parent, and not currently in a relationship, I devote my time when not with Hannah to our Synagogue. I find both fulfilling practically and spiritually.
6) What have you learned from the fathers that you have interacted with?

I have learned to know ones’ self emotionally; to be open to learning from my daughter as well as to be an important teacher for her; I have learned that spending unstructured time with my daughter day after day, week after week; month after month imbues in her a belief that she is important, vital and capable. The time spent with her now as she becomes a young lady creates for her what I call a spine of confidence and self-worth that will fortify and support her lifelong.
7) What else would you share regarding your experiences as a father thus far?

One afternoon Hannah’s nurse left and all the equipment had been put away. Hannah’s tracheostomy tube in her neck looked clean and snug. She and I were downstairs on the sofa looking at Fiddler on The Roof on the TV. Hannah was comfortable in her clown pajamas and bouncy chair, and she had just passed her six month birthday. She turned her head looking out the living room windows at much of the snow that had melted away. In the joy of that instant, I thought of the moments like I missed growing up with an indifferent dad. I tickled Hannah’s tummy then made a buzzing noise on her neck and she was smiling and her eyes sparkled. To give her a respite, I turned to the TV and watched while Tevya sang about tradition.

Hannah fussed a bit, and waved her arms around in time with the song. Turning to look at her, I saw tears running down her face, and because she had a trach in her throat, she didn’t make any sound when she cried. The sound was more like that of a cat hissing. She began kicking as well, and I cradled her in my arms and spoke softly to her. By then she was flailing and I checked her diaper, then set her back in the bouncy chair. As I did, her abdomen rose as though it was being inflated with air, and it became as hard as a table top; her eyes fluttered shut and her complexion turned bluish.

In a panic, I cradled her again jostling to get her to wake up. Fear sliced through my body like a juggernaut overwhelming me, and I grabbed the cordless phone.

“911 emergency?”

“Yes, my daughter had heart surgery, stopped breathing, six months old. Help. Help!I don’t know what to do.”

“Please hold on sir, let me transfer you to the fire department.”

While taken aback by being put on hold, the calling waiting beeps and it was Iris, my wife.

“Hi,” she says. “How are things?”

“Hannah stopped breathing!” I scream. “Get home now!”

Without waiting for the fire department, I put Hannah back in her bouncy seat, and remembering that brain damage happens after about two minutes, and also to check her trach tube, I unfasten it and pull the tube out of her throat, and blow air in her throat. Then I swiftly replaced the trach with a fresh one from her “Go Bag”. In seconds, her complexion returned to normal, her eyes fluttered open and she stirred as if woken from a nap.

I carpeted Hannah’s face with kisses and soothed her with coo-coos, while trying to ignore my feelings about how close Hannah came to dying. We slouched on the couch as though we had suddenly become dislodged from a huge vise. A minute later the house filled with five paramedics who swarmed around Hannah checking her vitals.
8) What have been the most memorable experiences that you have had thus far as a parent?

I would say that event made me cherish Hannah every day. I am present to the love I feel for Hannah and when I feel it from her. The Love of ones’ child leaves a lasting impression; especially if you almost lost one. It is also immensely rewarding to see Hannah learning to take care of, and learn to ride horses; She is learning Hebrew and she writes stories everyday. Hannah is also loving and outgoing. She is in a full embrace of life. These are joys to behold. Thank you for your interest.

If you have any questions for Keth, please leave a comment here and I will make sure that he gets them so that he may be able to respond!

Also, do you know a Dad in the Limelight? If so, please email me their contact information so that they too can be a part of this series!

Dads in the Limelight ( #limelightdads ) – Stu Friedman ( @DadsInTheGame ) #dadchat #dadstalking

dadofdivas

– April 25, 2013Posted in: Dads in the Limelight

Our 329th Dad in the Limelight is Stu Friedman. I want to thank Stu for being a part of this series. It has been great getting connected with him and now sharing him with all of you.

1) Tell me about yourself, (as well as how you are in the limelight for my readers knowledge)

Hi Dad of Divas readers, I am Stu Friedman. I am Co-Founder of Dads In The Game (www.dadsinthegame.com). Co-Founder Cliff John and I have built our site as a place where dads, moms, kids, and others can share positive stories about Dads. We share a wide assortment of content on our site, including product reviews, personal stories, and quotes. We also run a monthly Most Valuable Dad Competition, the MVD.

When I am not working on Dads In The Game, I help businesses and individuals with their insurance needs, dabble in health policy, and spend time with my family.

2) Tell me about your family

Simply, my family is the most important thing in my life. I am married to Lauren (absolutely amazing woman) and am the proud father of a daughter, Simone. I am fortunate enough to have a large extended family with great parents, siblings, in-laws, cousins, aunts, uncles, and even a grandparent. I have a great family!

3) What has been the largest challenge you have had in being a father?

The largest challenge that I have faced being a father is balancing my desire to do things personally with the needs of my immediate family, Lauren and Simone. You can read as many baby books as you want, but nothing really prepares you to be a father. Upon Simone’s birth I was both scared and excited. I had no idea what I was doing. I found myself wanting to do things and then thinking, “Simone…. What am I going to do with Simone?” It was very confusing for a while, but eventually Lauren and I established a routine that allowed us both to enjoy activities together without Simone, together with Simone, alone with Simone, and alone. It really helped to have extended family and friends with kids to provide advice on how to handle a variety of situations.

Stu Friedman, Dads in theLimelight, #limelightdads, Dad of Divas, dadofdivas.com

4) What advice would you give to other fathers?

Hahahahaha – Clearly, I would tell all fathers to read all of the blog posts at www.dadsinthegame.com. Seriously, I would tell dads to trust their instincts and to relax. All of us have the ability to be great fathers. There is no right way to do things. Just be involved and work with your spouse. Communicate, communicate, and communicate some more!

Seeing that you (or your position) are in the limelight, how have you come to balance parenthood and outside life? If you are currently not in the limelight per se, please still answer this in regards to how you balance parenthood and outside life.
As with some of my predecessor limelight dads, I think for me it comes down to knowing my values and priorities. For me, my family comes first. Everything else comes after my family. Knowing that, it is easy to balance parenthood with my outside life.

5) What have you learned from the fathers that you have interacted with?

For me, the most influential fathers in my life have been my own father and both of my grandfathers. All three were shirt off my back fathers who put family first and all taught me to value family over everything else.

6) What else would you share regarding your experiences as a father thus far?

Fatherhood is definitely not easy. Initial reactions are not always the best. There are definitely times when you want to rip your hair out. Luckily, I am bald and this forced me to find another method of dealing with difficult situations, the Stu Friedman Parenting Problem-Solving Method:

I make sure that Simone is away from any danger;
Think of something that makes me calm (e.g., beach in Aruba) ;
Talk it over with Lauren;
Seek any advice from my parents or Laurens parents;
Create a plan.

7) What have been the most memorable experiences that you have had thus far as a parent?

By far, my most memorable experience was being at the hospital the day Simone arrived.

If you have any questions for Stu, please leave a comment here and I will make sure that he gets them so that he may be able to respond!

Also, do you know a Dad in the Limelight? If so, please email me their contact information so that they too can be a part of this series!

Dads in the Limelight ( #limelightdads ) – Kenny Bodanis ( @KennyBodanis ) #dadchat #dadstalking

dadofdivas

– April 21, 2013Posted in: Dads in the Limelight

Our 328th Dad in the Limelight is Kenny Bodanis. I want to thank Kenny for being a part of this series. It has been great getting connected with him and now sharing him with all of you.

1) Tell me about yourself, (as well as how you are in the limelight for my readers knowledge)

Hi. Kenny Bodanis, here. I am a husband of one, father of two. If I had to search for aspects of my life which put me into the limelight, I would focus on three areas: playing the buffoon for the benefit of getting a cheap laugh from my wife and kids around the dinner table; my parenting radio column monthly on CJAD in Montreal; and being a freelance weatherman for the CBC (Canadian Broadcast Corporation for all you Yanks).

Otherwise, I spend my 9 to 5 hours as a television producer and director in the Montreal area. Hopefully, my limelight will expand this fall to include the publication of my book, “Men Get Pregnant, Too (despite never pushing a watermelon through a pigeonhole)”.

You can also find the book on facebook here - https://www.facebook.com/MenGetPregnantToo

2) Tell me about your family

My kids are both young grade-schoolers, kindergarten and grade 2. My wife completed her schooling a while ago. My vasectomy assures us all there will be no more critters in the house; with the exception of my son’s roommate: Casper – the guinea pig

3) What has been the largest challenge you have had in being a father?

Especially with my developing love for writing, the biggest challenge by far is time management. I must remind myself constantly to focus on the moment. I can get obsessive about the blog or writing project in front of me, or about the ‘beep’ of an incoming email. This can too easily distract me from life at home, and devoting attention to my family. Learning patience, focus, and that moments with your wife and children can never be reclaimed is a tough lesson to master.

4) What advice would you give to other fathers?

For new dads: it’s all normal. Whatever stress you feel about parenting and raising a new baby – try to be calm and enjoy. That slight fever, that cough, that congested nose, those weird dots on his chest, a touch of the runs; he’ll be fine.

Dads who are a little further along: make time for the things you enjoy, and well as time for your relationship with your spouse. Without some interpersonal gardening, what begins as taking things for granted can easily balloon into resentment. At that point, it’s a lot more challenging to put right.

The calendar. I will actually pencil-in, days in advance, time I need put aside to write or take care of personal projects. This way it does not conflict with family time, or with something my wife may have planned that same day. Also, I’ve only recently come to terms with (especially after reading feedback from a bunch of other daddy bloggers) the fact that I may have to sacrifice an hour of HBO here and there to be able to blog consistently. I also enjoy running, which I generally do after the kids are in bed. This schedule avoids me walking in the door after work, and then right back out again with my running shoes on.

6) What have you learned from the fathers that you have interacted with?

From some I’ve learned what aspects of their styles I want to adopt: work ethic, hands-on parenting, professional focus. From others, qualities I want to avoid: aggression, mocking my spouse for laughs, neglecting family time.

7) What else would you share regarding your experiences as a father thus far?

It really is an emotional roller coaster. There are days filled with frustration – either due to my own schedule and fatigue, or the kids’ moods and behavior that day. There are other days which are absolutely blissful; that you wish would go on forever. The key is remembering the bumps are temporary, and to talk yourself through them instead of focusing on escaping the situation – this is often easier said than done.

I’m also learning to be clear about my own needs as an individual. Being clear about taking time for myself allows me to decompress and enjoy the feeling of accomplishment after furthering a personal project.

8) What have been the most memorable experiences that you have had thus far as a parent?

Without question, it’s vacationing with the family. There’s nothing like time with the four of us on a road trip. My most memorable have so far been to the maritime provinces on Canada’s east coast. Wading in shallow Atlantic water, plucking mussels and clams to cook for supper, and talking about whatever pops into their heads from one moment to the next.

If you have any questions for Kenny, please leave a comment here and I will make sure that he gets them so that he may be able to respond!

Also, do you know a Dad in the Limelight? If so, please email me their contact information so that they too can be a part of this series!

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