Andrew Chris works as a SAHD and runs his business, The Life Empowerment Organization, from home. He lives in North Ogden, UT where he is raising his daughter and son! Every Dad of the Week answers the following questions, read on to learn more about Andrew and his family!
- What was your first reaction when you found out that you were going to be a father?
- It was a dream come true, I have always wanted to be a dad and even though it was scary as all gets, it was an amazing feeling!
- When you knew you were going to be a father of a daughter, who or where did you turn to for advice?
- My dad and my brother. They are two fathers I look up to.
- How would your kids describe you as a dad?
- Involved in their lives, encourage them, firm yet loving, fun, and that I have their back.
- What has been the largest challenge you have had in being a father?
- Our son is potentially on the spectrum, so there have been some added stressors with some of what we have experienced there, especially when it has come to getting him the support he needs in school.
- Looking back on your life as a father, what would you change if you could?
- Early on I felt a huge drive to work, work, work so I could provide financially for the family. I wish I would have recognized sooner that I provide much more for my family than just economically.
- What do you do for fun with your daughter(s)?
- She likes to paint my nails and do make-up, we play with her stuffed animals, and we have epic tea parties.
- What advice would you give to other dads with daughters?
- Enter their world and get to know your daughter(s) for who they are, encourage them to find and express their voice, have fun because it goes quick, and stay involved in their lives.
- How have you come to balance fatherhood and outside life?
- It has been hard to find a true balance when I also work from home, but when I’m with my children I set my phone and computer aside so I can be truly present with my children.
- What have been the most memorable experiences that you have had thus far as a father?
- The birth of both my children, the fact both of them said dada first!, watching each of them learn and grow, and the first time each of them rode a bike when they were both convinced they couldn’t do it.
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