Our 777th Dad in the Limelight is John Francis of the Fathers Eve movement. I want to thank John Francis for being a part of this series. It has been great getting connected with him and now sharing John Francis with all of you.
1) Tell me about yourself, (as well as how you are in the limelight for my readers knowledge)
I’m 50 years old, married for 17 years, 2 daughters – Lilly is 13, Anna is 10. My background is in franchising business – have had a wide range of experience, now considered an “expert” in franchising. Today I work as a Board Member, Consultant and Speaker in the franchise industry and with franchise businesses. My DAD Spotlight is for my new project FATHERS EVE, which is a new “Holiday” for Dads. It started in my garage in Saint Paul, MN in 2012.
Find out more on the Fathers Eve Facebook Page
2) Tell me about your family
I”m the last of 5 kids, grew up in the best of times – High School and College in the 1980’s
I’m 50 years old, married for 17 years, 2 daughters – Lilly is 13, Anna is 10.
We live in Saint Paul MN, I’m a “work from home” dad on purpose.
3) What has been the largest challenge you have had in being a father?
Losing my own father when I was 26, well before I was married and had my own children.
I’ve leaned on my friends and in-laws for advice about being a better husband and father.
4) What advice would you give to other fathers?
Don’t be afraid to ask for help!
Parent the child you have, not the child you wish you had.
5) How have you come to balance parenthood and outside life?
I am able to take plenty of free time from work, going to our family cabin in Wisconsin is where I de-compress.
I’ve made my fatherhood a part of my work, by creating Fathers Eve
6) What have you learned from the fathers that you have interacted with?
There is more than one right way to handle things, more than one right answer – just look for the next one.
Find what works for you, be honest and real. Know you will make mistakes, everyone does, no one is perfect – don’t expect it and don’t get frustrated.
7) What else would you share regarding your experiences as a father thus far?
Earlier, when I was a new dad, I had trouble with my temper, which was unusual. I saw that it was a problem and learned some techniques to stay calm and that has helped.
Keep it fun and real – your kids want to know you and be with you, give them as much time as you can.
8) What have been the most memorable experiences that you have had thus far as a parent?
Travel – we’ve had some great trips and vacations, I see that as a great opportunity for my kids to learn about the world, other people, and themselves.
Being part of the parents groups at my kids schools – the Dad Clubs, that’s been a lot of fun to participate and lead those groups.
If you have any questions for John Francis, please leave a comment here and I will make sure that he gets them so that he may be able to respond!
Also, do you know a Dad in the Limelight? If so, please email me their contact information so that they too can be a part of this series!
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