Marvel movies have taught us that everyone has an origin story. Peter Parker didn’t just decide to become Spider-Man, he was bitten by a radioactive spider and suddenly turned into the web-slinging superhero. My transition into a stay-at-home dad is similar. No, I wasn’t bitten by a radioactive spider, but I was bitten by the harsh reality that I no longer had a job.
My origin story began in October 2019. After a successful 20 year professional career, I accepted a new job. After only four months on the job, I was let go without any reason why. All I had was a box of belongings and a bad taste in my mouth. It was February 2020 and I had to make the tough call to my wife letting her know I no longer had a job. What was I going to do? I don’t only have myself to worry about. I also have to think about my wife and three kids. Time to start looking for a new place to work.
The job search went well. In one month’s time, I had two rounds of interviews with two different companies. Doors seemed to be opening for me once again. Then out of nowhere the coronavirus slammed every door shut throughout the entire country, even the entire world. Quarantines, social distancing, working from home, closed schools, and dried up job opportunities followed. The companies I interviewed with pulled their job postings. I had no other option but to stay home with my three kids. Similar to Peter Parker, I suddenly found myself turned into an unexpected stay-at-home dad.
The beginning of my time as a stay-at-home dad brought some unique opportunities. I took over homeschooling duties for my eight-year-old son and five-year-old daughter while my wife worked from home upstairs. I became a hairstylist for my one-year-old daughter, complete with ponytails and pigtails. It was everything I never thought I would do in 2020.
With the new school year starting, I’m preparing to serve as a virtual home school teacher for my third grader and kindergartener. This is on top of my stay-at-home dad duties of keeping my one-year-old from getting into everything and staying safe. Did I mention I also have a 12-year-old dog and a crazy puppy to keep an eye on? Some might give the impression they have this all under control. Do I? To be honest, I’m winging this whole stay-at-home dad thing every step of the way. To be even more honest, I am loving this time I get to spend with my kids.