“Take another bite of your potatoes, Atlas” I mumble to our five year old son, while holding Astrid, our 10 month old daughter, in my arms, trying to get her to latch onto the bottle. Not successful, though as she still prefers your breasts. Atleast you managed to pump some breast milk to leave for her this morning. “Archie please come down and eat” I yell, hoping it’ll reach Archie’s room upstairs. He’s probably just ignoring me..

I’ve always fantasized about having my own family. Cozy Sunday mornings in bed, with kids under the covers. Listening to laughter in the living room while making dinner. Driving to football games or ballet practices. I’m one hell of a lucky guy who now have all of these things.

You and I met back when we were just 19. At 23, we started our own family. Our oldest son, Archie was born. Gosh, I instantly fell in love with that tiny bundle on top of your chest at the hospital.

When Archie was three, we had our second son, Atlas. And he was the complete opposite of his big brother. Unlike Archie, who was very calm as a baby, and a kid, Atlas cried all the time. Now, at five years old, he’s like a little whirlwind, always seeking trouble. But he’s a good kid. Big curious eyes and dimples, just like his father.

10 months ago, our little Astrid was born, and our family was finally complete.

Honestly, it’s been a lot, juggling the normality of family life, with the abnormality of me being a touring singer. When we got married 6 years ago, our bank resources and accounts became shared. As I’ve been an artist for 16 years now, it meant that I’ve gotten some heavy pay checks through out the years. You’re still not really used to being able to buy whatever dress you want, or go on a weekend trip with your friends.

You grew up completely different from me. You had a big family, with not enough money, which meant that there wasn’t even a discussion of you going to college. Apparently, college tuitions can be pretty pricey.

Last year, before you got pregnant with Astrid, we had this conversation one late night. You told me how you kinda wanted to start working. I’ve always made it very clear that you definitely don’t need to work. But seeing that small glimmer in your eyes at the thought of you getting to do something you’ve always wanted, was enough for me. So, after Astrid was born, I convinced you to start studying again. You’ve always wanted to help people, you have that natural ability to immediately calm down others. So, now you’re studying to become a psychologist.

There have been times when you’ve doubted all of this. Especially when you read what my fans write on social media. See, the reason why I’m taking this long break isn’t to record another album. Well, not only to record my next album. But I’m also taking this break because I’ve been taking care of the kids while you’re at school. Honestly, I don’t understand how you did it when I was away on tour, and were alone with the kids. You’re a superhero. My superhero.

I hear the front door open as you come home. I smile immediately, gently rocking Astrid in my arms, who’s sobbing. “Shh, mommy is home now” I try to calm her down. And as you walk into the dining area, everything just immediately feels better.

“Mommy!!” Atlas lights up and runs to you, abandoning his potatoes.

I look at you, with nothing but love and care. “How was your day babe? Learnt anything new?” I ask you, walking over to you, and gently hand over Astrid to you. I press a soft kiss to your cheek. And just like that, my heart is beating like crazy. Just like when we were 19.