The couple took a three-year honeymoon before they had their first child. In May 2007, they welcomed their first son, Cayden. Costner took some time off acting to spend time helping out at home. His work shifted from time-demanding film projects to follow-up, side projects like investing in a centrifuge machine.
He also toured with his country-rock band Modern West, but it looked like he had dropped out of the scene completely. He had certainly left his tabloid-attracting lifestyle behind. His new role as a father was once again his main focus.
Cold Feet
Costner was ready for love, but not family and commitment. Luckily, he pulled it together in time and saved their relationship. Being single again was a good reminder. He had time to realize his mistake. “Fear kept me from marrying Christine,” Costner said. Adding, “[She] wanted a child, but I was afraid I couldn’t be an effective father.”
They dated for four years, and when it ended, he realized, “'Am I going to lose a beautiful woman who is willing to be with me to my very last breath because I am afraid to say yes to a child?’ That’s all it took.”
Reunited
The love birds were engaged in 2003. They tied the knot at Costner’s sweeping 165-acre Colorado estate just outside of Aspen, on September 25, 2004. The couple met at the film set-ready scenic ranch--he arrived in a covered wagon, and she in a vintage, restored green pickup truck. Exchanging their vows next to a rambling stream, they joined guests such as Tim Allen, Mary McDonnell, and Don Johnson, who gathered under event tents to give their regards.
And with 300 of their closest friends and family members, they celebrated. For Christine, it was the first time she said, “I do,” and it was Costner’s second, and last time. Unless, of course, the 'Field of Dreams' star meandered back to single life. But he’d be faithful, this time. Friend David Giammarco knew it was going to work out. He said Kevin and Christine are “like kids together, really in love.”
A Father of Seven Kids
In 2009, the new Costner family was blessed with a second child. Their second son Hayes was two years younger than his big brother. Then came their daughter, Grace, born in 2010. Family life treated the couple well.
In 2011, Costner shared his perspective about his family saying, “They’re really good children and I see them making steps every day, and the one thing I pray for in life is not success but being able to raise my children and that nothing happens to me in the next 20 years.” With his first three from his marriage with Cindy grown, and adding his son Liam with Bridget Rooney, Costner was now the father of seven children.
A Reason to Live
It’s complicated being an older dad. When your kids are born and you are already in your 60s, it’s something to consider. “I want it to be me who tells them about the secrets, the beauty, the treachery, and everything that is in life. I don’t want them to learn from someone else,” Costner lamented.
His sentiments reveal his commitment to family and, for Baumgartner, a true sign that he has completely reformed from his swinging singles days.