On each of the 30 days leading up to Father’s Day, Life of Dad will feature a different great dad from around the world.

Today we feature Jim Higley, also know as Bobblehead Dad.  Jim has three kids:  Kevin (22), Wallis (20 – that’s a girl, folks!) and Drew (16).  Jim is a columnist for publications such as Chicago Tribune, and Huffington Post, and his book, “Bobblehead Dad: 25 Lessons I Forgot I Knew” is a finalist for a ForeWord Reviews Book of the Year!  And now, on to our interview with Jim!

I really became a father when…  Well, there’s nothing that can knock the wind out of your sail more than finding out one day that you’re alone raising your kids. I remember that day and moment vividly. The kids were all asleep in their rooms and I was sitting at the kitchen table thinking to myself, “Holy crap. I’m doing this parenting thing all alone.” I think that was the day I really became a father.

My kids makes me laugh when… they freak out after I tell them their newest favorite song was actually first recorded when I was in high school.

Favorite daddy cocktail when the kids crash…  Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Milk Shake (does that count as a cocktail?)

What is the hardest thing about fatherhood?  For me, the hardest thing was getting to the point where it registered in my thick skull that this “Dad” thing wasn’t about me. I finally figured out that the road to being a successful dad was much easier if you just listen to you kids’ signals, follow their lead, and be the dad they need you to be. Give up stereotype images you have. Give up trying to be some image of a dad you envision. It’s all about being the dad your kids need.

What’s in your man cave?  I think I have more of a man drawer.  Maybe a closet.  You don’t want to know what’s in it.

How many hours of sleep each night?   During the week about 5-6 per night.

What food that your kids eat do you like the most?  We eat way too much Pizza. Dominos has Two-for-One-Tuesday. I have a standing order.

How has fatherhood changed in the last 20 years? There’s this thing called the internet that has opened the door for dads to grab knowledge, share knowledge, talk about concerns, victories and topics of interest. We’ve changed as a society, as well – making it much easier for dads to play a more active, connected role with kids. It’s a great time to be a dad.

Dream family vacation?  Our best family vacations have been at this awesome dude ranch in Arizona. We’re not really horse people. But there’s something really fun about being out of our element and just being outside all day long. And, okay, I like wearing chaps.

Make sure to check out Jim’s Bobblehead Dad website and to follow him on Facebook and Twitter!

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