I have had a number of facebook messages, texts and emails today from ‘friends’ asking me if I feel old! The occasion being that tom was 14 today.

At stages throughout the day I have reflected on what has happened over the last 14 years. The mistakes I have made, and continue to make, as a father were uppermost in my mind. The joy I experience as a father were close behind, as was the real heart-felt wish to be able to turn back time or at least slow it down a bit as the last 14 years have zipped away! I guess the right thing to do i look back and use what you see to inform how you carry on moving with time.

I end the day reflected on the 14 years of joy I have received from being father to Tom. (Beth and Jo have given me joy too but essentially this is Tom’s day).

My mind easily goes back to early Sunday evening 14 years ago when I held the little bundle that was to be Tom in one arm. It hardly seems possible. I remember all the experiences from that one day 14 years ago as clear as day, and yet I can forget stuff from yesterday.

I remember the walking around the ward in the Bristol Royal Infirmary with Sarah.
I remember the pain and joy of labour (which I found quite easy to cope with!).
I remember the waiting, so much waiting.
I remember the phonecalls from one particular young person in our youth group eager for news.
I remember the joy of seeing Tom for the first time and sharing our ‘new creation’ with Sarah.
I remember the fear when Sarah was taken off for a bath and I was left alone, in this very warm deliver suite, with my new born son.
I remember the words I said to Tom as he gazed into nowhere as he adjusted to life outside the womb.
I remember thanking God for this miracle of life.
I remember the joy in the voices of grandparents as I shared over the phone.
I remember it all.