When it comes to parenting, I firmly reject traditional gender roles and the notion that certain tasks are better suited for one parent over another. In our household, parenting is a shared responsibility—equal and collaborative. That said, my partner clearly excels in several areas, and most of these strengths transcend gender norms. (Unless we’re talking about getting sick. Women definitely have the upper hand there.) Here are five reasons why my partner outshines me:
1. Her Body is Truly Remarkable.
Let’s be honest: if I were to try and house a baby, it would be like attempting to squeeze a watermelon into a shoebox. Meanwhile, my partner’s body is designed for this miracle. She’s the one who carried our little one, whereas I’m just here, well, being me. No contest here; she wins by nature’s design.
2. She’s a Master of Mess Detection.
It’s impressive how my partner can spot the tiniest remnants of my son’s snacks—like Play-Doh hidden in macaroni and cheese—from a mile away. She can also anticipate where the next disaster will strike, deftly placing coasters and towels under his meal before the inevitable spills occur. Living with her is akin to having my own personal soothsayer, albeit one who kindly reminds me of my cleanup shortcomings.
3. Her Snuggling Skills Are Top-Notch.
I’ve witnessed countless cozy moments between my partner and our child, whether on the couch, in bed, or even at the dinner table. When I attempt to join in on the cuddling, however, I’m met with a disdainful glare, much like a cat hissing at an unwanted guest. I may be soft, but he clearly prefers her warmth over mine.
4. She Juggles Tasks Like a Pro.
My partner can whip up dinner, admire our son’s artistic endeavors, and pick out his school outfit—all while planning our next family trip and requesting my assistance with dinner prep (which I often procrastinate on). It’s like she’s directing a symphony of chaos while I’m just trying to keep up with my own notes.
5. She Exudes Patience.
Unlike me, who tends to escalate quickly, my partner maintains her composure with our son. She doesn’t resort to time-outs as hastily as I do, nor does she seek solace at the bar after a long day with the kids. When she does reach her limit, watch out—she means business. Fortunately, those moments are rare, and when they do occur, they’re often justified. Meanwhile, I’m in a constant state of heightened alertness, ready to raise my voice at the slightest provocation, especially when our child is near expensive gadgets.
Neither of us is perfect, but in the landscape of parenting, my partner is clearly excelling. To be fair, she doesn’t have to deal with someone constantly reminding her of their own less-than-stellar parenting moments. I’d say I’m doing alright, considering the circumstances.
Stay tuned for my next post, where I’ll share the things I do better than my partner—if you count the ability to enjoy a drink as a talent!
If you’re interested in exploring more about parenting and fertility, check out our article on couples’ fertility journey. For those looking for children’s clothing, this resource has some great options. Additionally, for excellent insights on pregnancy and home insemination, visit Cleveland Clinic’s podcast.
Summary:
Parenting is a shared journey, yet my partner shines in numerous areas, including her ability to detect messes, multitask, and provide warmth. While I strive to keep up, it’s clear she excels in many aspects of parenting.