[carlo3b]

I worry they think my interest might be perverted because of all the bad news that circulates.

I couldn't agree with you more, to no ones surprise, because I will alway respect men who enjoy being around children, not just our own, but all children..

I talk about my life with my kids often, and I guess the poor folks on my food and family ping list have to endure my endless prattle about my life as a single dad.. But, that is why I can understand your concern about being around other peoples kids.. What a shame, I had 3 or more kids in my home almost every day, especially around meal times..

I hoped it was because it was my cooking, but I know it was more, it was because I was a dad that they were comfortable talking to and joking with, and who loved just being a dad..

My last boy is now going off to college, to make his own footprints, and someday emulate his upbringing, and be a dad to his kids.. His absence will be deafening, but I have the love of my other 4 kids and my fabulous grandchildren who live close by..

So ride your bike my FRiend, and be a great adult hero to the young'ins while you can, it passes sooooo quickly.. Thanks for listening.. :)

[Dianna]

I hoped it was because it was my cooking, but I know it was more, it was because I was a dad that they were comfortable talking to and joking with, and who loved just being a dad..

Two boys who live around the corner spend a lot of time at my house. These boys (7 and 9) have two little step-brothers (1 1/2 and a few months). Well, I got to hear all about how mom sends the oldest baby off with grandparents for days at a time because she can't handle both little ones.

Meanwhile, her older kids are with me learning how to swim and float (both were afraid of the water last summer), talking a mile per minute about all sorts of things, begging to be fed, and the little one takes every opportunity to grab ahold of me or lean against my leg.

Frankly, it gets irritating. If I wanted 4 children, I'd have birthed 4 children. But then I look at these two little kids and think that someone has to care about them.

[don-o]

Time to read it - thanks for the pings

[SierraWasp]

My one and only Grandson turned 12, today. The age of accountability!!!

Nice thread Carlo and great commentary as usual... Now we have two beautiful women to miss... right?

[tubebender]

I got to have lunch with my son and daughter and her 17 year old son today. The three of them work together in the family business along with my son in law.

We ate fish and chips at a new diner called Gofish.

There are very few young kids in our neighborhood.As a matter of fact they are closing schools here in Eureka...

[Victoria Delsoul]

I love children. I love them dearly.

Good post.

[Alouette]

I just had my 16th grandchild!

[GOPJ]

My last boy is now going off to college, to make his own footprints, and someday emulate his upbringing, and be a dad to his kids.. His absence will be deafening, but I have the love of my other 4 kids and my fabulous grandchildren who live close by..

You'll have the love of the "last boy" too - college or not, love lives in the heart. :)

[Dr. Eckleburg]

God bless all fathers everywhere.