FOF Observation #29

The "FOF Observations" are a series of perpetual posts where I will share with you, my readers, short little observations that I have made (or will be making) on being the father of a large family. You will be able to access each of the posts in a cohesive list by clicking on the "FOF Observations" link in the "Perpetual Posts" group on the sidebar.

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Normally these "Observations" have a foundation based in humor.
Today, I am switching gears into a more serious tone.

One of the members of a Facebook Group I belong to for "Dad Bloggers" recently asked an open question to all the other members.  MoJoDad Jim asked for a response to the following question....

What would be your one major piece of advice for any first time father?

I thought about it a little bit.  I mean, I am a father of five - and two of the five have reached "adulthood" (with one more reaching that milestone in less than a month).  I do have "some" experience in this area.

I started reading some of the many replies.  There were all very good.

"You have no idea what you're doing and that's ok."    -S.A.H.D.ness
"Do what you think is right... Ignore the naysayers."    -DadRambles
"Don't be afraid to hold them. They won't break."    -DadBlunders
"If the baby is crying don't stress out!"    -Souvenirs of Fatherhood
"Spend as much time outdoors as possible with them from day 1" -OutdoorsWithDad

There were also some pretty funny ones too!

"Deep Breaths!"    -DoubleTroubleDaddy
"If you fart... You can blame it on the baby."    -Souvenirs of Fatherhood
"Always carry an extra diaper in your back pocket."    -Souvenirs of Fatherhood
"Blame the little ones as long as you can."    -DadBlunders

I had a basic concept of what I wanted to convey, so I started started typing.

Here is what I came up with.

Despite what it may seem like, relish each and every moment. When you look back, the time you have with your kids will have passed like the blink of an eye.

                                                                      - The Life of a Father of Five 

My comment received many "likes" and...  nearly brought me to tears.

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What would be YOUR one major piece of advise for any first time father?
Leave your answer as a comment.