Dads & Doughnuts 🍩👩👧👦 (Sort of)
When I became a single mom a little over three years ago, I made myself a promise.
I would do whatever it took, even if it meant stepping way outside my comfort zone, to give my kids a full and happy life. Whatever “normal” even means.
And honestly, we’ve done a lot.
Solo road trips. Teaching my son how to throw a baseball. Facing bugs with bravery that usually involves me screaming a little less each time. 😂 Countless small moments that add up to a good life.
But this week, my kindergartener brought home a flyer from school.
It said “Dads and Doughnuts.”
My heart sank. That was one role I could never really be… right?
I sat him down gently and asked if he wanted to invite his grandpa.
He looked at me and smiled.
“No. I want you to go. You’re my mom and my dad.”
So this morning, I did what any stand-in dad would do. I put on my best “dad” outfit, added a little painted-on facial hair (don’t judge 😅) and walked proudly into that breakfast with my sweet boy.
At first I felt a little awkward. But then he introduced me to his friends, grinning from ear to ear.
“This is my mom. She’s my dad too, so I brought her.”
I try every single day to show my kids that they are deeply loved. I question myself all the time, wondering if I’m really doing enough.
But as I left, he ran after me, hugged me tight, and whispered in my ear.
“Mom… I know you’ll always be there and do anything for me. Thank you. I love you.”
Then he kissed my cheek and ran off to class.
I don’t know if he will remember this moment forever.
But I will. Always. ❤️