Dad’s Letter to His 16 Year Old Daughter

written by Fred Campos
Extreme Custodial Parenting Accommodation Story https://www.DaddyGotCustody.com

Christmas Picture of Fred and Caitlyn (age 2)[M]y Dearest Caitlyn,

When I started college, I told myself that I wanted a dozen kids. I know crazy, right? When I turned 25, I was worried that perhaps I would never have kids. Funny how you think when you are young. My dreams started coming true when I found out you were coming into the world, I was SO happy. God blessing me with a daughter. I didn’t waste any time. I began immediately painting your room, buying your crib and studying hard to become the best Daddy I could be for you.

I prayed and fought hard for you before you were born and have never stopped ever since. Some day you will truly understand the reasons I needed to be your full-time Daddy. A decision I have never regretted and the positive impact on your life is far better than I could have ever hoped or imagined.

Caitlyn my love, I love you more than life itself!

I was there when you took your first steps. I was there to welcome you home on your first day of Kindergarten. I spent seven years changing your elementary school sign just so I could wave at you during school. I was there to say a prayer and kiss you goodnight each night. I cheered at your school performances and was there each night to aid in homework. Caitlyn it has been wonderful watching you grow up.

Caitlyn my love, I love you to the moon and back!

Wealth is a Factor to Ignore in Child Custody by Fred CamposI was there counting rhythms when you started the clarinet. I bragged to my co-workers when you made student of the month. I dressed as Harry Potter and chaperoned your middle school Halloween dance. I listened as we talked of your first crush. And intervened when things went bad. I took you on a father/daughter getaway to discuss life, the universe and everything. I said yes to the third time on Space Mountain. I zombied during your 5a track meets, and brought you Starbucks during your post Mix paintball nights.

Caitlyn, you are my only daughter, and I love you greatly!

Fred and Caitlyn (age 15)I was there helping you decide your AP and IB classes. I was there to aid in moving music to your smart phone. My heart skipped a beat the first time you drove around the Trinity parking lot. I tried to laugh as you took out your first curb. I monitored your texting and coached your friend selections. I sweated in bleachers as you marched in your first band practice. I cheered in the stands at the San Antonio regional finals and walked you onto your first possible college campus. (Go Mean Green!)

Caitlyn, I’m your biggest fan and I love you always.

You are 16 and growing up. In coming years my role will change. I may be strict, I might be more involved than most of your friend’s Dads, but I make no apologies. I monitor your cell phone, spot checking your school projects, redirecting your writing and language because–I LOVE YOU!

I am your Daddy. I have your back. I am proud of you!

I love you more than life itself, Happy 16th Birthday! – Daddy

Images by Fred Campos, the proud Papa.

Comments

2 Comments

  1. HappyGirl95

    oh my god fred!

    this made me cry. i wish i had a dad like you. come to think of it, i wish my son’s father was like you. your daughter may not appreciate it, but we girls desire a father who will step up and care enough to be in our lives.

    Reply
    • FullCustodyDad

      HappyGirl,

      Well you don’t just wake up one day and become a good father. You are looking at the results of my parenting over 17 years. I have grown up a ton since I first found out I was going to be a Daddy.

      Two parting thoughts: 1) Don’t discount your son’s father. In time he may grow into a great dad (I know I did). 2) Fathers are very important to children. But substitute fathers do wonders as well. It could be your own father, brother or male friend in your life that is there and can make a difference for your son. Don’t lose faith, if birth Daddy doesn’t step up to the plate, seek out another.

      Thanks for the comment.

      Fred

      Reply

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