First, my apologies: this is not my surprise – yet! This past week, however, has certainly surprised me.
This fall, I got a random email from a single dad vlogger, explaining that he’d recently launched a website for single dads:
“I wanted to see if I can grab 20 minutes of your time for some advice,” RJ Jaramillo began.
“I would really love to get your input on SingleDad.com — and what the site means to you. I know you are busy, but if you can give me a few minutes of your time…”
As it turns out, his email wasn’t so random:
RJ had actually tried to contact me more than one year ago — but I hadn’t responded. When he nicely explained this to me, I was so sorry! (I try to respond to everyone. Really I do.) Sure, I’d chat with him on the phone.
He called, and within five minutes, I tried to ignore the fact that he had a really soothing, kind voice.
Stay professional, I told myself.
After all, he was clearly very focused, organized, and responsible. However, he’s also a Leo – and I swore I heard a flirt lurking in there!
That night, I checked out RJ’s Single Dad Diaries. I was hooked: three single dads who dish on everything from Miley Cyrus to holiday anxiety to dating post-divorce.
One thing led to another, and RJ and I were emailing: hey, how about Single Mom and Dad Diaries?
Being a Leo and all, RJ suggested that we get right to business. Get this: he suggested that he hop on a plane… next week!
Our plan is: we’ll each take a day off work to make a series of single mom and dad videos — for ALL of you.
Isn’t this what you’d call “a working date”?
Here’s one irony: although we both talk about dating as single parents, neither of us has been on a date in months. (No, I’m not counting dinner with the ex who works in law enforcement.)
So, what do you think?
I mean, I’ve never met this guy! But what an opportunity, right?
Should I say “yes”?
Photos of RJ with his kids, and RJ overlooking a cliff in Ireland. He is adventurous, isn’t he?
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Of course I say you should say yes. I mean how long have you been chit chatting on the phone and things? Long enough right? Then yes, and it is a great opportunity. Besides how many times do you meet a business contact for the first time typically it happens a lot.
Go, have fun, enjoy!
Have fun and ENJOY!!! (How often does the universe drop a hot single dad in your lap like this?!?)
Sounds like a great project…Look forward to reading/seeing more!
liz´s last blog post…Happy Long Weekend
I say GO for it!
At the very least you have the opportunity to collaborate on a great new project!
I already like him, and what an improvement from the last one…
Paige´s last blog post…YES WE DID!
Is this Really a question? Of course you should say yes!!! I mean, you HAVE watched the videos, right? A.Dor.A.Ble!!!
At the very least, you have an adorable single dad friend you’ve met in person. AND another business avenue to pursue. How much more could you ask for?
uhhhhhhh can you seay background check. HA! JK, go for it woman.
justagirl´s last blog post…WTF? Volume 11 Edition 14
I’ve been on singledad.com a few times and I’ve been staring at RJ for months myself… *giggle*
He’s just damn cute.
Seriously Rachel? Can I shout “HELLS YEAH!” any louder?!?!
But you are just working together, right? Or is there something else there? (and trust me… a long distance relationship is extremely draining on the heart. I’m just sayin’.
T´s last blog post…Crossing that bridge with lessons I’ve learned…
San Diego isn’t that far from the Bay Area. I’ve checked out his site before and I only wish it had a bit more content. Maybe I’ll have to give it another look. (and of course he’s flirting with you…who wouldn’t?)
I’d say why not? have fun!!! enjoy!!! nothing to lose and a friendship to gain!
or maybe more lol
look forward to hearing all about it and seeing pics/videos.
Are you hoping to be business partners or bed-fellows? Usually it’s not good to be both.
dadshouse´s last blog post…Somebody to Love
Dad’s House: I was waiting to hear what you had to say!
As you know, I don’t mix business with pleasure! It has never worked — for me.
Wow, he is very attractive, committed to being a loving dad and seems genuinely like a great guy . . .
I am all for it . . but yes, the reality of business vs. pleasure. Perhaps, just have no expectations and chemistry and/or lack thereof will dictate what path it takes.
Attainingme´s last blog post…Parte 2. Los hombres latinos de “If you want my body and you think I am sexy” . . . Don’t tell me!
OMG !! Definitely go for it… what do you have to lose…
Can’t wait to see the videos !! What a great idea…
Single Mom´s last blog post…Extra Money for Christmas !!!
Totally LEO! And I’ve only liked every Leo I’ve met. *wink*
pisceshanna´s last blog post…Steady
Okay Rach,
I got the checklist you gave me:
1.Video Camera (X) Check
2.Four Different Outfits (X)Check
3.SWA Ticket Roundtrip (X)Check
4.Outline on Dating Topics (X)Check
5.Strictly Professional Attitude during the course of the day( );-)
Just for the record, I spoke with the other two Single Dad Diary Dads (Jesse and Jon) and they can’t wait to see our videos… they are both looking forward to see if I can “Hold up and Keep up” with you… sounds like it’s already becoming a Viagra moment!
Viva San Diego!
RJ
Hey, as a fellow LEO and proud partner in crime with RJ, I know he will live up to the SingleDad hype, with or without Viagra. (Bro, you better not be on Viagra.) Bring the lambchops to SF like you did to Ireland. Nice! Should I send Rachel the photo of you in the pirate outfit on Halloween? : )
RJ…Represent!!!
Go for it Rachel! This sounds like such a fun project.
I have watched RJ’s videos on iHeart and he just seems like the most awesome and dedicated father and blogger.
You guys are really encouraging me to get on the vlogging bandwagon. Don’t know what I am waiting for except that the only time I have to blog is late at night and by then I am not so video-worthy looking.
Leah´s last blog post…Full moon, full heart
Hello RJ! You did NOT tell me about the pirate outfit.
What if you bring that as Outfit No. 5? (What do you say, mamas?)
Please send the photo Jon. Can’t wait.
You know that I was a sexy witch for Halloween…
Re: the lamb chops, can you please explain? Before I change my mind about this… I don’t eat lamb. Help.
Rach & Jon,
This the rated “G” Version. Jon, Dont send the one with the “Wenches”… ARGG!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eElGUvSJ2E8
Ha! The lambchops I’m talking about are on his face…mutton chops…BIG sideburns that run down to the corner of your lips. RJ can pull them off.
As for the photo, I’ll have to send it later, but it’s well worth seeing. He was Jack Sparrow or worse, and I was Lancelot. We each had swords. We won’t talk about that…gotta keep it professional, right?
And now, yes RJ, you have to bring along the pirate outfit. Love ya!
You should both have a blast. Can’t wait to see what comes of it!
Rachel-
First off I *LOVE* your blog! It is completely vivacious, sensuous, intellectual, and totally captures my attention and interest.
I also am very excited to see what comes of the video blogs that you and RJ will be creating.
There is nothing sexier than a woman or a man who are committed to their children and families- whether they are doing it on their own or in a partnership.
Actually, I take that back- on your own is sexier- because it is harder! And yes, I say this even though I don’t have kids myself (wait- does my 15 year old Miniature Pinscher count? - he should, I treat him like my child)
All jokes aside, I have had the honor and the pleasure of watching many single parents navigate through life- including the very own RJ and I can attest personally from knowing him to a couple of things your readers mentioned:
1.) Yes, he is Adorable (I love how Angie put that!!)
2.) He is a committed Dad- His kids truly are amazing!
3.) Save the background check- He’s harmless
4.) He does make women giggle- he makes me laugh until I have a stomach ache!
5.) He is a HUGE Flirt- watch out!! LOL
6.) Beware of the Leo- actually Leos are awesome- Sagittarius are the ones to watch out for (Sorry if anyone is- but its true if you’re a Taurus like me- we don’t mix)
7.) As far as using Viagra- Jon- I am not going to go there….
Most importantly, he is committed to other Single Dads out there and he shares his experience, failures, and successes in hopes that it will help someone that is experiencing a similar situation for the positive.
Both of you will have a blast, and we all can’t wait to see the finished product!
sounds like the start of a beautiful friendship…….
Now Rachel …
You know I leave my opinions here, truthful um, albeit sugar coated.
In response to this meeting/quasi date/vlogging project?
Can I get a “HELL YEAH!”
Can’t wait to see/hear all about it! =)
Nancy´s last blog post…I Was Warned, but I Peeked Anyway
He is a hottie-bo-bottie!! I say yes…I mean, YOU should say yes…
Honey´s last blog post…The Nicest Surprise
Hi rachel, what a network you have going here love it! as for the two of you getting together I believe a lot of positive things will come out of your day . Im even driving out from o.c to cut his do this weekend, I think I will give him the mullet he ’s been asking for….
Leah: I really get it about blogging late at night (it’s 12:22 a.m. right now) and not feeling “so video-worthy looking.” But that would make you/us look oh-so-real, right?
Jon: Please stop scaring me with all this sword talk…
To the rest of you… You’re starting to sway me.
RJ: Wanna buy that ticket?
Look at this!!! There’s an incredible difference in response from your readers! With A, everyone shouted, “No, No, No, run, run…” and yet with this RJ person everyone is shouting for joy! Hmmm….I must admit, I do have a good feeling about RJ–an honest, respectable man who is a true professional!
Orland: Oh my goodness, even RJ’s barber is writing in. That is so sweet! I wasn’t sure if you were even for real…. I had to ask RJ just now by email. Yes, you’re for real!
Avigail: Very perceptive, my dear friend.
Melissa: An entire list! RJ, did you get your ticket? I think the consensus is clear…
Dadshouse´s DEFINITELY has a good point.
If you are going to do it know, BEFOREHAND, what you would like to come out of this visit. It smells sort of ripe, though.
NappyKitchen´s last blog post…What does ‘Kitchen’ Mean?
Yes yes yes and YUMMM!
Definitely go for it! If the professional chemistry turns into something personal, and you want to keep the professional side going, maybe one of his cohorts can take over that part.
Tracey´s last blog post…It Was Bound To Happen
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