A Single Dad's Life - Part 2

Meet Kevin.

Kevin is a 41 year-old professional with a bachelor's degree in journalism, living in Austin, Texas.

Kevin is a divorced, single dad to one child (age 2 ½), from another relationship.  Kevin shares a little bit about his background with us, and about what life is like for him as a single dad.

Tell us about you.

My parents are married and have been so - on and off - since 1967. I have a younger brother and sister (they are twins). ... I am a former newspaper writer and am now a mortgage fraud investigator. ... I love red wine... I am an avid runner and have completed 6 marathons and 8 half marathons.

How did your life as a single dad begin?

Answering an E-harmony ad. Actually, it began after me and my kid's mother broke up late in 2007. 

Describe a day in the life of a single dad (you).

Well, since I'm not the custodial parent, most days are like single people without kids. However, the days I get my son, usually on Saturdays, are pretty hectic. I start the day with a run of 12 to 20 miles, then I hurry home, stuff my face with breakfast, and pick up my son. I'm usually tired when I pick him up and my son has plenty of energy, so I'm loaded on coffee just to keep up with him. And we just hang out all day.

What are some of the rewards you've found in rearing a child in a single-parent household? 

Rewards: Being a dad and watching him grow up. 

What are some of the challenges?

Challenges? How to communicate with his mother.

How does your relationship with your son's other parent positively/negatively affect your relationship with your son, if at all?

It hasn't had a great affect so far. We don't argue in front of him. But he is beginning to wonder why we don't live together, so I'm sure we'll have some explaining to do soon.

Do you feel that single parents are treated differently in the workplace? If so, how?

I don't think single parents are treated differently, though I guess it would depend on where you work.

How would you say your married family/friends view your life as a single parent?

They don't view my life any differently than theirs, I guess.

What is one thing that you've learned about yourself as a result of becoming a single parent?

That I have a lot of love to give and right now, my son is getting all of it.

What advice/encouragement could you give to a newly single parent?

Be there for your child and communicate effectively with his/her mother.