Brilliant dad feature week 90
This week our brilliant dad feature is Robin and he blogs at Dandy Dad. Check out his blog, it’s a fanastic read and I’m sure you will be hooked on his take towards parenting.
He is a first-time father at 40, his daughter Martha was born in October 2016.
He likes to think that he takes an irreverent look at parenting, with a particular focus on remaining stylish, even when you’re covered in puke and poo. Thank you to Robin for taking part.
1. Have you always wanted to be a dad?
Not really. My dad wasn’t around when I was growing up, so I suppose I never really had a father figure as such, and therefore, didn’t really identify with fatherhood. Anyway, I wanted to be a rock star until I reached my mid-30s, so nothing else mattered. Then I decided to grow up…
2. How did you feel when your children were born?
Like I was in some weird daydream. Firstly we notice the subtle signs that labour is near. Then my wife had been in labour for ages before the consultant recommended an emergency section. No sleep does strange things to a man.
3. What have been your most rewarding experiences so far as a Dad?
When I do something to make Martha laugh it’s the best sound imaginable – nothing can top it, not even AC/DC’s first album.
4. What are some of funniest moments to have happened to you as a dad?
Just before Martha was born last year, I wrote an article for the Guardian about how I intended to still dress like a dandy even once my baby was born. You wouldn’t believe the grief I got from my friends, all of whom have kids and knew better. As for the comments section – ouch!
5. Have there been any situations with your children that you have found difficult to cope with?
Just lack of sleep really, that’s a killer. We’ve been blessed with a very smiley, happy child so it’s been relatively painless. Saying that, my wife found the pressure to breastfeed incredibly difficult to cope with, particularly when it’s so hard to get right and you’re not really given much instruction from the NHS.
6. What are your dreams and hopes for your children?
Just that they’re happy and confident (not entitled – just confident). Actually, she’d better dress well too, or there’ll be trouble…
