fatherhood - and a giveaway

Darren wears a check shirt and messenger bag c/o Joules.

Men are thrust into fatherhood. Like the unlikely actor ripped from the audience, planted centre stage and illuminated by a single spot light these bemused souls stare out into a sea of blank faces for reassurance. A tiny creature heckles them from a clumsily wrapped swaddle, its boos and hisses rising in volume with each muddled line or gesture.

Women on the other hand are immersed in the entire production from the get go. There is much prop buying, the mammoth yet deliciously creative task of set design and the scrunching of feather soft fabrics whilst collating the star's wardrobe.  Gatherings of like minded souls occur often to dissect and discuss every detail of the dialogue, the cast and each scene as it unfolds. And there are ample opportunities to rehearse complex manoeuvres with stunt doubles.

But even with this lack of rehearsal all the men I have known have found their voice and shone on the night. The glare of their fifteen minutes of fame fading gently to a beautiful glow of the everyday. I have seen calloused hands cradle downy heads with such tenderness and fragility and rivers of tears wash down the steeliest of faces. Wide shouldered bear like fellows bedecked in sparkly this and that in the care  of a four year old hairdresser and wild, raucous belly laughing from little people ensnared by tickling fingers.

Without book nor gaggle of mentors they muddle, they navigate and above all they blossom. Inspired by an innate yearning to protect, to hold close. And to heave squirming, giggling bundles up upon their shoulders.  Such is their way.

Steph x

When I was approached by a representative for Joules I was delighted to be able to gift my beloved with some high quality lovelies.  As a wonderfully hands on Papa he chose a slouchy man bag". Made from a sturdy canvas it houses his wallet and other paraphernalia as well as a spare nappy, wipes and morning tea for the poppets. I feel my shoulders levelling as my bag is just that bit lighter now that I can share the load. It is exceptional quality and looks...well...manly. Darren also chose a cotton shirt in a go anywhere, go with anything check. With that bespoke air and superb fabric quality it is a classic piece that will last for many seasons. The online experience was a refreshing change also for a man who runs a country mile from a department store change room and he now has his eye on a waterproof wax  jacket from their men's jackets range for rainy walks with the babies. Perhaps Father's Day my love.

The lovely people at Joules are offering one of their gorgeous woody classic polo shirt for a lucky Papa (the winner can choose their size and colour). To enter you simply need to be a follower of this blog (new ones welcome) and pop over to Joules'  facebook page and become a "liker" or  alternatively, follow them on twitter. For a second entry like this brown wren on facebook. For a third entry, share this giveaway on instagram, facebook or on your blog. Please leave a separate comment for each entry. Open to international readers. The winner will be chosen by random generator one week from today.

Comments are now closed. The random generator chose number 23. The lovely Tash of little bit of thyme will be spoiling a special man in her life! Thanks so much everyone.