Fatherhood

The greatest sound you will ever hear is a baby's first cry. I have heard this sound twice and both times I was overcome with emotion; I couldn't stop crying myself for both Briana's and Alex's birth (a lot more than even mom cried). So many things ran through my mind in the short time after Alex was delivered. First, I was just amazed at how beautiful he was. I kept thinking how did I get so lucky to be blessed with this miracle. I also thought about what he will become in the future. Maybe he will be a college professor (like dad), or maybe a counselor (like mom). He might be a doctor, lawyer, or even President of the United States. He might even quarterback Ohio State to the 2029 national championship. My mom always told me and my brothers we could be whatever we wanted; hopefully, Gretchen and I can convey this to Alex (and Briana).

I mentioned in a previous blog how I was in my dream job. I also valued my time as a coach. I viewed the title of "Coach" as a term of respect. I enjoyed being "Coach Turner" and still call all of those in the profession "Coach" (I have never called Ohio State's football coach by his first name, it is always Coach Tressel in our household; even Briana knows him by this name - same with Coach Hayes). Now, I am known as "Dr. Turner" because of my Ph.D. "Dr." is another title that you have to earn. However, the title I value most is "Daddy". I love hearing that come from Briana's mouth. The responsibilities with this title are so much more important than the other titles I have had. No other "job" compares to this one. When you think about everything you have to do as a parent, it is quite overwhelming. It is also far more rewarding than anything I will ever do in the future. Gretchen and I are going to do our very best to take care of Alex and to teach him everything he needs to know.

And so the journey begins. Everyday will be an adventure, and there will be some bumps along the way. I'm sure we will make some mistakes, but hopefully we can teach Alex right from wrong and to treat everyone with respect. It's been amazing seeing Briana go from a 3 pound baby to a beautiful, young kindergartner. It is an incredible feeling to know that I will now get to see 2 children grow to adulthood. I couldn't be happier!!!