Sometimes I feel like I’m crap at both the papa and mama roles, and either way it doesn’t feel helpful to assign them based on gender lines. I feel like I’ve had to step up/reconnect with both my nurturing and my playful sides to parent well, rather than relying on my partner to take up the slack in both areas. Because in my case, my personality suits neither, and my partner is at once playful and patient/cuddling, so I really could just sit back and pretend I’m not needed.

I think it’s so interesting to hear how you’ve had to change and grow and not rely on that other role-taker as a single mum (and how he has presumably had to, as well). Even though I’m not planning on splitting, I want that same strength in me as I try to be both papa and mama to my child. Thanks for the reminder! And thanks so much for sharing.