Making Time for Miguel: Why Bonding Matters More Than Ever

Working a full-time job, while running a business, and being a full-time single dad can get busy, sometimes overwhelmingly so. Between work, errands, appointments, dinner, laundry, and the constant ping of notifications, it's easy to get swept up in the current of daily responsibilities. But amid all that noise, there’s one part of my day I never take for granted: the time I spend with Mig's.

Being a parent is the most important role I’ve ever had, and it’s not something I want to do on autopilot. Miguel is growing fast, too fast some days, and I know these moments we share now will become the foundation of our lifelong relationship. That’s why I make it a priority to carve out intentional, meaningful time together, no matter how packed the day gets.

Sometimes we sit by the fire pit and make s'mores.

Sometimes it’s as simple as a walk through our neighborhood after dinner, going out for coffee, talking about his day, or the latest project he’s dreaming up. At other times, it’s building something together, cooking side by side in the kitchen, or reading before bed. These aren’t grand gestures. They’re small, steady acts of connection that say: I see you. I hear you. I’m here for you.

Coffee and Danishes with good conversation

Bonding with Miguel isn't just good for him, it’s grounding for me. In a world that moves too fast, he reminds me to slow down. His questions challenge me to think more deeply. His laughter lightens the heaviest days. And the trust we're building now? That’s the kind of bond I want to carry us through every season of life.

I also know that showing up consistently matters. Kids don’t always need elaborate plans or perfect moments; they need presence. Eye contact. A listening ear. Someone who puts the phone down and says, You’re my priority right now.

Spending time together at the park reading

As a single parent, there are days I feel stretched thin. But I remind myself that even on the hard days, I get to be Miguel’s dad, and that’s a gift. So, whether it’s five minutes or a full afternoon, I make space for us. Because no task, no deadline, no errand will ever be more important than the relationship I’m building with my son.

And one day, when he’s older and looking back on his childhood, I hope he remembers how often we laughed, how deeply he was loved, and how we always made time for each other.