1) Hefdaddy42, if you are a parent, what's it like to be a parent? What are some ups and downs of being a parent?
Weighty stuff.
1) I am a parent. Two girls, ages 13 and 20. It is the greatest thing in the world. It is also the hardest thing in the world. Some days you win, and some days you lose. The older my girls get, the challenges grow larger in scope, and the losses are devastating. But the wins are glorious. See my post in the Durham thread in the concert subforum for a big win.
I saw your post at the Durham Concert and that was totally fantastic! It must be such a heart warming and astonishing experience to see Dream Theater with your two daughters and have a fantastic time. Judging from your post, you must have been smiling all the way home. That was really nice to read and I may have shed a few tears.
I never had a close relationship with my father. He would take my brother to concerts, to go fishing, and all that cool activities. When I would ask him to take me to a concert, he would not let me go. While my dad and brother were having fun, I'd be at my house reading or studying. He didn't realize how lonely I was and he tried to mend our relationship, but since I'm being a stubborn girl, I refuse to let him get close to me now. It's a bit too late.
The prospect of being a parent to me is so scary, yet very exciting. Although it will mean much more work for me and much more stress, I know in the end, there is that satisfaction or raising that talented or brilliant kid and seeing my kids do well and live a good life...I think it will outweigh all the troubles of going through to raise a kid.
Anyways, sorry for rambling in your ask thread, and once more, thank you for sharing that amazing experience. That will definitely change my perspective on being a mother later on.
Thanks!