I’m what many people might call a geek. I’m a computer programmer (and actually love my job), I enjoy nerdy things and subjects, I read and watch a lot of science fiction and fantasy, I love playing board games, I build and paint Warhammer and AirFix miniatures, I love looking at miniature railways, I really enjoy puzzles and brain teasers, I’m in my 30s and I enjoy comic books, and I’m a tabletop roleplaying enthusiast and games master. I also enjoy less “geeky” things; craft beer, good food, and football. But even with those interests, I get very geeky about them.
And soon, in just over a month’s time, my son will be born. I will be a dad for at least the first time.
Being a dad will likely be the biggest and most prominent aspect of my identity. It will never be my whole personality, but I do not doubt that it is going to be the most important part of my life and will define who I am more than anything else.
Me and my wife are of course very excited to be welcoming our son into the world. But that excitement is accompanied by many other feelings; joy, anxiety, panic, worry, happiness, days of feeling overwhelmed, fear of the unknown, impatience. We are as prepared as we can be but we will be surprised no matter what. It’s a weird feeling to be simultaneously excited and impatient to meet our child, while also being terrified of what unknowns and the new life that will bring.
I started this blog to write down my reflections on becoming a parent and enjoying my various hobbies, and how each side of myself intertwines with each other. How will being a parent influence how I partake in my interests? And vice-versa?
As an avid tabletop roleplaying enthusiast, this is to me in essence a new adventure; I’m starting at Level 1 with only theory and no practical experience. As the months and years go by, I will gain more experience and level up as my child also learns and grows. Also as with any adventure, there are many unknowns but great rewards. I love a good campaign, and fatherhood is the most exciting campaign I will be in!