Photo of the Day - Profile

Tonight my oldest daughter had a big chunk of enamel break off one of her remaining baby teeth.  I hadn't even pulled my camera out for a couple days but thought I would try and get a shot of it.  Nancy has been sick in bed for the last 24 hours so I took the camera in to show her the pictures.  She, along with two of the younger boys, and a few days earlier, two of the older children, have had a nasty stomach flu.  Only two of us have been spared so far.  Hopefully things stay that way.   

I found her surrounded by children, all trying to get a little time with their mother today before they head off to bed for the night.  My younger daughter was sitting by the lamp, which gave her this soft, golden glow.  Her hair is a little wilder than usual.  That tends to be the way a lot of things go when I'm in charge around here.

Clark

Daddy's Little Girl

First Posted May 20th, 2009 on el Bed.com

Today I took a day off to spend it with my oldest daughter. As mentioned a few days ago, her class went to the JA Biz City simulation and I volunteered to help. We each worked in different businesses, she in the restaurant and I helped out at the bank, so we actually only got to see each other a few times. We did take a short break toward the end of the day and walked around the town together. We strolled past all the busy shops, full of children trying to get things done, and talked about how fun today had been so far.

The day was a great experience for both of us. She learned a few things about running a business and balancing a personal checkbook. I got to spend the day with about 100 kids who were having fun at pretending they were big people. We ended up at the restaurant for a snack and some photos of her standing out front. My little CFO daughter, 11 years old today.

11 years ago things were pretty messed up as far as business and finances go. The company I had worked so hard to build was falling apart around me. Over the next two years we lost everything worth anything and ended up with a massive pile of debt. Eventually, I lost the business and we sold our house to pay off a large and looming debt. With other creditors still calling, we moved in with Nancy's parents to save money and begin the rebuilding process. Maybe it goes without saying, but this was a tough time for us.

In that long time of darkness, one bright, little light stands out in my memory. She was that one, sweet, little girl, whose smile was infectious, whose hugs would brighten your day, and who’s love kept her daddy going. It was in that time in my life that I wrote the following words.

It's been a long, rough day.
Finally, I am home.
I’m feeling very beat,
So tired, and alone.

It all goes away,
When open swings the door.
And I hear the running feet,
Of baby, I adore.

Now everything's okay.
I lift her in a twirl.
When I see the grin, so sweet,
Of Daddy's Little Girl.


(Her Smile, November 1999)


Today gave me a few moments to reflect on my life with this girl, my relationship to her, and the debt of gratitude she is owed by me. Today has also given me a glimpse into how our relationship might progress through the years as she grows up and moves on into the world.

I love the memories I have of her and I will cherish them forever. I also look forward to what lies ahead and am so excited for many future lunch-hour walks in the company of this treasured daughter with the beautiful smile.

How about you? Who are some of the most important people to you and why?

Clark