Father’s Day Before the Baby: Preparing with Purpose

Lawn mower and trimmed grass.

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Today in the U.S. (15th of Jun. 2025) is Father's Day. I've said 'Happy Father's Day' to my father. This is the first time I've ever had it said to me. Reading the message, "Happy Father's Day ❤️" and hearing my wife say it to me, felt good.

No baby yet. No diapers. Just the quiet before everything changes.

But even now, something deep inside is shifting. I’m planning, saving, and building — not just out of duty, but because I know why it matters to me.

That’s the key. Not just what to do, but why.

1. I’m Laying a Foundation for Their Freedom

I'm using the Habit of Planning. I'm planning to put about $200/month into a 529 college savings plan. What is it? From Vanguard, "A 529 plan is a tax-advantaged account made specifically for education savings like college, trade school, vocational school, and even K-12."

In Colorado, as of 2025:

CO State Tax Details for the 529 plan. From the Vanguard 529 benefits tool, found at https://investor.vanguard.com/accounts-plans/529-plans

Vanguard and others have specific portfolios that can be bought into. I will need to do research into what is suited for us, e.g., a hands-on or a more managed approach. Think and research what works for you.

I don’t know where the world will be in 18 years (or a year), but I want my kids to have options, not pressure. A custodial brokerage account is another option, and that will need thought and planning too. This would be to help teach them about investing and what real wealth means: freedom, responsibility, and possibility.

2. My Habits Today Will Help Shape Their Tomorrow

I’m living what I hope to teach: automate savings, spend with intention, crush debts, invest and pay yourself first, and build a life where money flows through values, not around them. These habits can be learned.

3. I’m Designing a Life Where I Can Be Present (and get better at doing that)

Money matters. It affects every part of your life. As Wallace D. Wattles highlighted in the 'Science of Getting Rich' (Wattles, 1910):

"No man can rise to his greatest possible height in talent or soul development unless he has plenty of money; for to unfold the soul and develop talent, he must have many things to use, and he cannot have these things unless he has money to buy them with."

I’m setting things up now, so I can provide and play. I won't always be available, but when I can, I want to be present.

This Father’s Day, I’m not celebrating what I’ve done. I’m accepting and enjoying what I’m becoming — a father. I'll try to be as ready as I can.

If you still can, reach out to your father today. Ask a question you’ve never asked. Tell him what you appreciate. Legacy isn’t just about passing things down — sometimes, it’s about looking back with love.

And for those about to become a father too — I hope you do well. Truly. May we build something strong, loving, and lasting.

To your success.