dad's view

Jeff Shelby is a full-time author and a stay-at-home Dad. Jeff's mystery novels, Wicked Break and Killer Swell, have both appeared on the Los Angeles Times and Denver Post best-seller lists. He also serves as a writer/reviewer on the book site, MyShelf.com.

A Thank You Letter To My Employer

February 6, 2009

Dear Madam/Wife,

For the past five and a half years, you have employed me as your Stay At Home Father. In these tough economic times, I wanted to thank you for continuing my employment. Some might call this “kissing up.” Whatever.

When I applied for this position, I was not entirely sure that I was qualified. I appreciate that you were willing to hire someone who would have to learn on the job and, uh, make a few mistakes. Your confidence in my ability to do the job was surprising and, if I’m being honest, probably a bit of a reach on your part. But I appreciate it nonetheless.

During my tenure, I have learned many, many things. For instance, I learned that the home furnishings department of any department store is an excellent place to do an emergency diaper change. (Those beds are just like home, only with far more expensive sheets.) I learned that chicken nuggets make a fine dinner. Seven nights a week. I learned that it’s important to introduce myself to the moms at the park, lest they think they just saw me on America’s Most Wanted as this week’s featured child abductor. I learned that I totally suck at house cleaning. (That one may have already been on my resume. I can’t recall.) I learned that To-Do lists left for me were not merely suggestions, but actually expected to be followed. (While I may not have appeared to enjoy the counseling sessions that explained that fact, let me assure you that I did.) And I learned that naps (mine) in the middle of the day were best kept in secret rather than featured as the highlight when you asked how my day was.

I don’t for a moment, however, believe that I have become all I can be in this position and believe I still have great potential as I still have much to learn. I have yet to master the grocery store list. The next time I go to the store and return with all the items requested will be the first time. I still do not have a surefire method for remembering to empty the dishwasher. My bed making skills are average at best. And as I mentioned above, I totally and completely suck at house cleaning. I look forward to the opportunity in the near future to work on these things and broaden my skill set.

I would also like to take this time to thank you for continuing to make my employment possible. Without your dedication to your career and willingness to sacrifice, none of this would be possible. And while I know you so enjoy having people walk in to your office to complain about the most annoying, mundane things possible, I have a sneaking suspicion that, on occasion, it might get a little old. Yet, you return, day after day, month after month, in order to support our family and fund my position. I cannot thank you enough.

So as we move forward, I just wanted to let you know how much I appreciate my current position and your willingness to keep me employed in this difficult time. If there is anything I can do to increase my value or further solidify my standing, please do not hesitate to let me know. (Like I even need to say that.)

Also – and I hope this isn’t inappropriate – you are totally hot and I love you.

Sincerely,
Your Stay At Home Father/Husband