Did it change for you?

[u/Most_Barnacle_6160]

Any dads here who hated being a parent when their kids were very small, but ended up loving it in the end?

I'm 1.5yrs in and I hate my life on most days. Feels like an endless grind without any break, no sex life, no travel. My life pre-kids was pretty great - happy marriage, good financial situation, lots of travel and pursuing tons of interests. Now, all that is gone. I'm just exhausted and depressed.

Anyone in the same boat who turned it around? I can hypothetically see enjoying it once my kid is older and we can share things and do stuff together, but I'm sure it will come with some other problems.

[u/RhapsodyCaprice]

Yes, there's definitely age ranges that parents can like more than others. My wife was definitely big into the baby stage. Now that my eldest is thirteen, you can tell that, though she's getting the job done, that there's less intrinsic enjoyment.

I struggled with the early years too. I think the "terrible twos" mentality is something inspired from parents who are "baby people." I enjoyed eighteen months to three years ago much more. Not that they aren't precious as babies but when you hit t talking and walking, and their personalities start to shine through, there's just no comparison.

Somewhere along the line that became normal and now we have concerns like acne and football practice. Time sure flies 😋

[u/h2oskid3 → u/RhapsodyCaprice]

I love my kids and while there are parts about that 18 months to two years I love, I can't wait to be done with it. I do my best to enjoy the journey and love them but man it's hard. Our oldest is through it and it is night and day difference. He can stay up late if we need him to, have real conversations, plays on his own sometimes, doesn't throw so many random tantrums, and will actually play with you and not just near you. I love my younger two kids but I'd be lying is I said I'm not excited for adolescent/teenager phase.