Being a dad has taught Chris Miller what love and family are all about. But that’s not why he’s here.
Since I became a father 8 years ago, my life has changed in so many ways. Sure, the sleep deprivation, stress, and added responsibility has been tough. But being a dad has taught me what love and family is all about; my daughter Ella has shown me how to see the silver linings in the world. I wouldn’t change it for anything.
Well, mostly. Becoming a father also brought along a lot of things that, like most dads, I hate.
Especially the ones that require surgeon-like precision sticker placement. Society has led you to believe that all men love putting crap together and working with tools. But that’s far from the truth. By the time we finish assembling that special edition Barbie bike with training wheels, we’re too drained to enjoy the bike ride afterwards. Please understand that assembling toys is about as fun as putting together new Ikea furniture.
Seriously, it took a sorority girl to make you realize this? We’ve worked hard to sculpt the perfect gut with legs that look like toothpicks.
3. We’re not our spouses’ number one anymore (and vice-versa).
We get it, the kids have become the overwhelming priority. And naturally, women tend to adjust to this quickly. But remember, we’re in this game just as much as you are, so try your best to treat us like your partner and not your assistant.
4. People refer to us as “the babysitter.”
There is nothing more annoying than when we’re at the grocery store and Debbie the cashier says “Looks like Dad’s the babysitter tonight.” Listen people, we are far from babysitters. And this Dad Bod proves it.
5. Moms at the park give us that patronizing look.
You know what I’m talking about, ladies. Just because I’m a dad, you think I’m obviously overwhelmed, out of my comfort zone, and incompetent. It’s my kid. Step back. I got this.
There’s more to the story. Find it at GoodHousekeeping.com.
Previously published at GoodHousekeeping.com. Photo courtesy of author.