I'm Back

It should be noted that what you're about to read was written in March of 2009. It was originally the intro to a book, but that idea fizzled a bit, and now I blog. A lot has changed, which I'll update you on later. For now, this is what you need to know about me. Enjoy...

There are a few things I probably ought to clear up before I get too far, here. Yes, this is a book about being a stay-at-home dad (SAHD). Yes, there will be some humor, and hopefully some inspiration. That said, I'm not a SAHD of my own free will. Truth be told, I'd rather be out there in the “real world,” earning a paycheck, growing a business, covering a game, or interviewing a coach. In all honesty, the only reason you're able to read this is that nobody ever offered me a job, meaning I had lots of time to sit down and write this. No, a job in that world just is not in the cards for me right now, so I'm filling the role that needs to be filled to the best of my abilities.

Over the last several years, I've done a little bit of everything. In the years just before I was married, I was a retail security guy. I was the one hiding behind racks of bras watching kids shove DVD players into their pants, then tackling them at the door as they futilely attempted to evade capture. From loss prevention, I moved on to journalism. I did some online sports writing, and within a year, the opportunity presented itself for me to start my own sports magazine in Michigan. For about 16 months I worked my tail off to take that magazine from “idea” all the way to seeing it on store shelves. I hired writers, assigned stories, managed the staff, and so on. I loved it. My wife (who served as my Art Director) and I had to give up our spots at the magazine due to some personal reasons after our fourth issue. It was a tough call, and one that I often look back on and regret. After that, I just kind of floated around. I spent some time back in loss prevention, did some online work for a sports publication in Denver, and even tried to start my own marketing company. Nothing worked.

Meanwhile, Becky (the wife) was blossoming into a talented graphic artist. She was sought out by businesses large and small wherever we lived thanks to her print and web design know-how and talent. There is really nothing she can't do. And if there is anything she can't do, give her ten minutes, and she'll figure it out. Her portfolio was growing by the week, each new project more impressive than the last. It seemed to work out well for both of us, as we were able to combine her talents and my ideas to start or work with several start up operations. In fact, during the first seven years of our marriage, we worked together for just over four of them, nearly all of those from our home office.

It was incredible to be able to spend that time at home with Becky. We could work around our personal schedules, spend time with the kids, and even share the household responsibilities. For a proud guy like myself, having to do a little cleaning, or a few diaper changes isn't overwhelming. It was the perfect balance. And for a 6' 8”, 300 pound, shaven-headed dude who has a secret goal of being a mixed martial artist, a balance like this is huge.

More tomorrow...