My Little Girl,

It has been 11 days since I have had to leave you for any length of time. During that time we have bonded in a way that is so incredible, words don’t do it justice. I mean, how can I accurately describe the smile I get each and every time you see me. Your face lights up brighter than any star imaginable. Your glow fills the room and I am powerless to resist your complete and honest love.

Sometimes, I admit, this infatuation with your Daddy isn’t the most convenient. Lately, I have had to make myself scarce during your breast feeding sessions because you would rather pull off the breast to look at me than eat. But that’s just a minor thing and while your mother and I pretend to be exasperated by it, deep down we love that you do it.

You’ve been sick lately Doodlebug. Your nose gets clogged easily and you get cranky and cry. This is so unlike you. But as soon as I pick you up to soothe you, you melt into my arms. Your little hand will grab my shirt or you’ll find my hand that supports you and wrap your tiny fingers around one of mine. Your sobs will subside into little short breaths and then you’ll exhale deeply into my neck and your body will go limp. These little moments make me so glad that I am your father.

You look so much like your mother Swee’Pea and I love looking into your eyes knowing that the love your mother and I have for each other created you. I think back to before we knew we were having a boy and a girl. I was so unsure about what it would mean to have a girl. I mean, I don’t know how to braid hair, I have never been to a tea party and when it comes to what girls wear these days, well, I’m afraid we might have some issues over what constitutes a “shirt” in the coming years. But beyond that, I’m realizing just how wonderful it is to have a little girl like you in my life. You laugh at everything. Sometimes, I have to try hard to figure out what it is you’re laughing at. Many times, I suspect you’re just laughing at me – laughing because you know just how much I’d do for you. Laughing because isn’t it funny that this guy who you’re coming to know as your Daddy will come running at any sign of distress. A cry, a hiccup, a cough – and Daddy’s there to turn that cry into a smile. Because there’s nothing better in this world than your smile. My dream for you is that smile never fades. May your special spirit always carry on and may you always meet your days the same way you meet your Daddy. With a smile.

Yes, you’re “Daddy’s little girl.” I wouldn’t want it any other way.

Daddy with Baby Bri

(Photo courtesy of mightygirl)