Mike Smith, the Sunshine Dad is a stay-at-home-dad. He is pretty sure you can spot this fact when you see him in public. Here’s how.

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Stay-at-Home dads are still relatively uncommon. We blend in with the crowd and look almost like any other guy but if you know the signs you can spot us from a mile away.

I’m not trying to start some stereotype war, I’m just trying to have a laugh at myself. These may or may not be accurate for others but here are the 7 ways you can identify me.

I’m Wearing A Gray T-Shirt

Now it’s not the fact that this shirt is gray or the fact that it’s a t-shirt that gives me away. It’s not even the fact that I’ve got drool on my shoulder from where I was carrying my baby. It’s the fact that it’s the same shirt I wore yesterday. I made a calculated risk that I’m not going to see anyone today that I saw yesterday. It’s these little gambles that keep the laundry pile down.

My Cargo Shorts

It’s not a giveaway due to the Costanza Wallet in my cargo pockets; you have to look close to notice there is a growth height chart on the side of my shorts. It’s marked with the snot of each of my kids as they have given me leg hugs randomly throughout the day. Usually at the least opportune time, like when I’m carrying boiling water or something.

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I have a Beard

I’m not sporting a beard as a fashion statement or because I’m raising awareness for anything or because I want to look extra manly. I just forgot to shave…all of last month.

I Have Super Trendy, Stylish Hair

Don’t be fooled, this hair is not because I’m cool, in tune with fashion trends or trying to impress anyone. It’s only because somehow the current hip style is “bed head.” I’ve got that messy-like-you-just-rolled-out-of-bed-and-didn’t-fix-your-hair look down!

I Have a Military Combat Survival Pack in the Grocery Store

This isn’t because I am ex-military, have taken prepping to the next level or because I’m expecting some impending military combat situation. I just wasn’t going to be caught dead carrying around a girly diaper bag.

I’m Rocking Super Sweet Aviator Sunglasses

Once again, I’m not trying to make the cover of GQ, I just need something to hide the tears in case I cry while my son gets on the school bus for his first day. Sometimes I also like to get in a quick nap and have my kids still think I’m looking at them.

I Faintly Smell of Chlorine

This isn’t a new fresh scent from Calvin Klein, this is because I’ve just spent everyday this week at the neighborhood pool and I may or may not have taken a shower each night. Swimming in a pool is basically taking a bath right? It also really helps my bed head look!

Photo: Flickr/ Stuart Banyard