Dave Foster, 35, is a firefighter with the Denver Fire Department. His daughter, Mia Elizabeth, was born Jan. 16.
How has fatherhood changed your outlook on life?
My life changed focus from my happiness to her happiness. I’m trying to set up a (strong) foundation for her, so that everything I do benefits her. From my relationship with my wife, us staying stable, to the little things, like cutting the lawn every week. That’s not as important now. Time with her is most important. Working to keep a stable job and household is so much more important now.
Are you more careful as a fireman now, like stepping a little more gingerly here and there?
Fatherhood didn’t slow me down at all, but I think a little bit more before I act. Rather than trying to be the first person (on the scene), I want to be the safest person there, and move us forward in a very deliberate and safe way. I drive, so when I hear the bell or the long ring or we get a call, my first thought has always been the safety of my crew. But now having a new little one at home, that validates the whole reason to be safe.
What about fatherhood and your romantic life?
My wife is great. We got the best advice from my sister. She said, ‘Children are the most wonderful thing in the world, but to raise a child, the mother and father have to get along like when they were dating or just got married.’ We still go on dates. We get babysitters and have our date night. It’s different than before, because we anticipate date nights more. They’re an event to look forward to. It’s a team effort by me and my wife, to maintain our love and attraction for each other throughout our marriage.
What surprised you the most about fatherhood?
The actual physical time you have to commit to the little brand-new baby. You literally have to be there all the time. You want to make sure nothing happens to her. Every little cry, you’re up. All of a sudden, sleep is not as important.
– Colleen O’Connor, Denver Post staff writer
