What It’s Like to Be Married to a Stay-at-Home Dad

home insemination Kit

My husband, Jake, is a stay-at-home dad, and this new chapter of our lives is both refreshing and unique. After recently retiring from the military, he’s taking a breather before diving into the civilian workforce. While I juggle my job and freelance gigs, Jake holds down the fort at home.

Like anything in life, being the one who heads out to work each day has its ups and downs. I often count my blessings, and while I know I’m fortunate to have a job—especially when so many are struggling—I can’t help but feel a twinge of resentment when my alarm goes off each morning.

This morning, however, brought a small moment that shifted my perspective. As I rose before dawn to write (no, we don’t have chickens, but it feels that way sometimes!), I savored the peacefulness of my quiet house, enjoying those first sips of coffee in solitude. With three kids, my home is usually a whirlwind of noise, so these solitary moments help me reconnect with myself.

At 6:30 AM, I reluctantly closed my laptop, feeling the weight of reality settle in. I tiptoed past Jake, who was still cozy in bed, and tried not to feel bitter about his pajama-clad ease. My morning routine was less than cheerful; I just couldn’t shake the sour mood. Even the simple pleasure of styling my hair wasn’t lifting my spirits today.

But then I heard it—those sweet giggles of my two little ones. No matter how I’m feeling, their laughter always manages to cut through the gloom. I peeked through the narrow crack in the bathroom door, and there they were—my boys sandwiched between Jake, who was grinning ear to ear as they blew raspberries on his arm. In that moment, I realized that while I was wrapped up in my own complaints, they were busy creating joyful memories.

Jake is an incredible dad. It might sound cliché, but he didn’t become a father until he was nearly 50, and seeing him embrace this role is nothing short of inspiring. The bond between him and our sons is flourishing, and I know they will cherish these simple moments when they’re older.

As I watched this scene unfold, my bitterness faded. This stay-at-home dad phase is gifting us the time to create lasting memories, like those silly morning raspberries that mean so much in the grand scheme of life.

If you want to read more about the joys and challenges of family life, check out our other blog posts at this link. And if you’re curious about resources for home insemination, Make a Mom offers excellent tools. For those interested in exploring fertility treatments, this resource on IVF can be beneficial too.

In summary, being married to a stay-at-home dad has its ups and downs, but the little moments of joy and connection make it all worthwhile. It’s a season of our lives that emphasizes what truly matters—creating precious memories with family.