The New New Adventure (NNA) is the much anticipated sequel to the Next Adventure blog where we tracked our predictions and journey into parenting when Lila was born (November 2019). Now she’s a big sister. The NNA continues the fun and antics with the addition of blessing #2, baby Ciara. Two is a whole new ball game…
Get the full ‘New New Thing’ Series here: charleskunken.com/season8
The Dad Signal. Photo Credit: Nikki Rose
The New New Adventure #4 - The Dad Signal
“Are you brushing her teeth yet?” I appreciate the doctor’s truly non-judgmental tone.
“Absolutely.” I say it counts even if Lila (16 months) is clomping down on the toothbrush while I jiggle my elbow and vibrate her head like a paint can.
The only person she will reliably kiss is baby sister. She opens her mouth wide and rests it somewhere on Ciara’s face. It leaves me flabbergasted. I try to keep in mind how touching it is when scraping bean burrito off the molding or finding my bookmarks have been yanked.
Ciara’s most recent check-up went great. There were a couple things I didn’t remember from the first time around that are apparently okay, namely changing colors and sounding like a goat before falling asleep.
There is nothing more rewarding than getting the Dad Signal—such as when the gentle powers of Dad are required to get one or the other to bed.
I’m also starting to notice more of the secrets to being a dad that have been hiding in plain sight: such as, the Jerky at the checkout line of Home Depot, or that the Kids Menu at restaurants is really code for the Dad Supplemental Menu.
I like to think I’m a season away from being in shape. My strategy thus far has been to keep the concept of ‘in shape’ on the horizon. Like a ship at sea, I never want to lose sight of land. If I can figure out how to get to fighting weight with two kids, I’ll be all set. Summer 2021 here we come.
We had all four grandparents in Seattle this week. It was pretty cool. A true tribal council. I’m hoping the girls can gain power from each of them: artist, cook, master builder, athlete.
Short update for this week. The name of the game has been chilling and being, but we'll continue to track it and we’ll be back with more of the fun and games next week.
Image: Mighty Mike, Universal Kids
Have some thoughts? Feel free to drop a comment or hit me up: charlie@charleskunken.com
Other Posts In The ‘New New Thing’ Series
The twinkle in his eye made it clear that he was sincerely happy for me. Before he turned his back he said, “Congrats again on the pressure washer.”