It’s been two weeks since I went back to work, and I’ll admit—it’s gotten a little easier walking out that door in the morning.
But that first day? Brutal.

I knew it was going to be tough, but man, I wasn’t ready for how heavy that door would feel when it closed behind me. The whole day, all I could think about was what I was missing—Lyla’s smiles, her coos, the little moments that happen in the blink of an eye. I kept wondering if she’d say her first word while I was gone or if Mika needed a hand with something. That tug-of-war between responsibility and presence—it’s real.

But the truth is, life doesn’t pause.
Bills still come in. Diapers still need buying. That roof doesn’t hold itself up.

As much as I wish I could freeze time and soak up every second at home, I’ve got to be out there earning that paycheck—the one that keeps our little world spinning. It’s not glamorous, but it’s part of being a dad: doing what needs to be done, even when your heart wants to be somewhere else.

Being a father is by far the most amazing role I’ve ever filled—and absolutely the toughest. Every day feels like trying to balance two full-time jobs: providing and being present. And while I haven’t perfected it (not even close), I’m learning that it’s okay to be a work-in-progress.

What keeps me going is knowing I’m not doing it alone. I’ve got an incredible partner in Mika, and together we’re figuring out this wild new rhythm of parenthood—one day, one diaper, and one goodbye at a time.

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Dad Tip:
Don’t underestimate the emotional punch of that first week back. Ease into it if you can. Keep photos on your phone, video call when possible, and remember—you’re not missing everything. You’re building the foundation that makes all those little moments possible.