My 12 year old son had a D-Day project due for school. Being a history buff, I really wanted to work closely with him on this project. Of course, he was delighted at that idea! I dragged him to Wal-Mart to pick out the necessary materials to create a visual representation of that historic day in France. My excitement abound as we walked up and down the aisles looking for just the right parts. I really cherished this moment as one we would both look back on one day with loving sentiment. Why, he might even tell his grandchildren how special it was that we worked on his project together. As these delusions of harmony danced around in my head, I began to notice the excitement was not felt by all! Every idea I proposed was met with "that's kind of stupid Dad". Then, I noticed the distance between us widened as we walked. Could it be? Was he embarrassed to be seen with me? I'm cool, right? I mean I have all the Eagles CD's! Surely, that proves it.

Now, let's transition to my 8 year old. As I walk toward the door and rattle my keys, I hear him jump out of his room and ask to come with me before he even knows where I'm going. Then, almost always, he says, "I guess it's father, son time today". Man oh, man, those are the words that any father worth his salt cherishes. It doesn't get much better than that. If I have a hat on, he grabs a hat. If I have a t-shirt on, he changes to put on a t-shirt. As we ride down the road, he is a constant chatter about anything and everything. You have to know Dawson! We could be riding to the landfill, and he is just happy that we are dumping trash together as father and son. He thinks I'm the coolest thing since sliced bread! Seems like his older brother felt the same way once upon a time.

Let's transition to my two, mama and daddy can't wait to three, year old. As sweet as he is, he is definitely exploring the boundaries of the word "No"! His newest thing is to mimic everything I say when I get on to him. I can't prove it, but I believe my oldest might have taught him that one! Mason seemed to snicker the other day when I was trying to get on to Jack about pushing buttons on the T.V. "Don't do it again Jack!" Then, in a sarcastic, two year old voice, "Don't do it again Jack!" followed by a "bring it on old, fat man" type giggle. As I give chase, Jack takes off. Have you ever tried to catch a two year old bound and determined to get away from you? It ain't easy! Also, every Thomas the Tank engine and friends ever made is sprawled out in the living room. He can amazingly dodge every one, and yes, you guessed it, I manage to step on every one, and I am barefoot! Where's the respect for the father of the house like I used to see on "Fathers Knows Best"?

Despite the frustrations that come with every stage of growing up, I know my sons will one day appreciate their parents, and even, their dad. As children, they are not always going to tell us that they appreciate the trip to Wal-Mart to work on a project, or that they enjoyed the conversation on the way to the dump, or that they appreciate the discipline we try to instill in them. However, I'm convinced that if we, as parents, invest time and love in them, they will remember. More importantly, they will emulate the same thing in the way they raise their children one day.

So for me, admittedly, I long for the day when my oldest has a 12 year old, and my youngest has a 2 year old. Don't get me wrong. I love each one equally, and I wouldn't change a thing about them. But, if anyone knows how to bottle an 8 year olds unabashed admiration for their dad, please let me know. I want to give my other two boys a sip! And, now, I realize why my parents get such a kick out of coming to see us. It's revenge!

Tags & Keywords : Parenting