Fathers, buy your diaper bags carefully

When we were looking for a diaper bag my wife insisted that it be something that I’m comfortable with carrying, both in appearance and feel.  As usual, my wife was correct and also had a bit of foresight by knowing that I tend not to use things that I don’t like. 

It’s not something I’d admit to in mixed company, but one of the unforeseen advantages of having a baby is being able to carry around the diaper bag.  I like having a bag to carry things around in.  Sure, it’s a bag that has the needed things for our toddler son, but it’s also my bag for my stuff.  Sometimes I’ll put my computer in the diaper bag, the latest book I’m reading, camera, snacks you name it. 

Men in Japan have shoulder bags.  I lived in Japan for two years and it’s a trend that I never really understood or latched on to.  A western roommate of mine got a shoulder bag within a month of living there.  For him it worked and he was comfortable with it, but to me it looked like a square purse.

The diaper bag is different.  I can put my wallet in there so I don’t have a lump on my rear when I sit on the floor for story time.  I blend with the other parents (mostly moms…) when I’m out at the park or running errands.  It’s like a boy scout having a Swiss Army Knife, except in my case I have extra diapers and wipes instead of a can opener or magnifying glass to burn things with.   The best part is that it’s all hidden in my somewhat manly olive green diaper bag.