I love watching my daughter with her dad. I see the love and adoration that she has for him – the complete and utter trust and love that has not yet seen disappointment or heartbreak.
Watching him with our daughter is completely different then the bonding moments he had with our son at the same age. I often think of the relationship that my father and I have and truly pray that theirs doesn’t mirror ours but surpasses it.
While I was close to my mom, I can honestly admit that I was much closer to my dad growing up. He typically was the first that I would go to with my tears and problems – trusting that he would have the words (and hugs) to make everything right.
I recall a spur of the moment trip to a bridal store when I was preparing for my wedding. We were en route to who knows where and I spotted the cutest little shop and had to stop. I knew that it was the absolute last thing he wanted to do, but I put on the “Daddy, please” look and pout. We stopped. Picture my 6 foot 6 inches tall, 250+ father in the midst of dresses, lace, and just plain fluff. I still giggle when I think of the look pure mortification on his face when he reality set in to what he’d gotten himself into.
I tried on countless dresses that day and left without purchasing any of them. However, what sticks out most about that day is that he patiently sat and critiqued each one of those dresses I tried on (the man has some serious fashion sense!). As we got back in the car, I remember saying “You’re the best Daddy” and his typical response of “And don’t you forget it” brought a smile to my face.
When I watch my daughter and my husband, I hope that they share moments like that. That when she can’t come to me, she feels comfortable confiding in him. I pray that he has the words and the patience to deal with her “Miss V” moments. Dresses, tea parties, school dances, and all things diva – he has no clue what he’s gotten himself into.