Note to self: Do this more often. It pulls oneself out of the daily grime and adjusts one’s perspective. It also gives one an opportunity to talk about one’s self.

For Samantha

What can I say about my princess?

She’ll never remember my favorite moments with her; she was only minutes old. I suspect there was a minor oversight on the part of hospital, but whatever the reason I held you for nearly 90 minutes while Dr. Patel attended to Kerri. For 90 minutes I held you and stared at this new life. And you stared back. We watched each other for what felt like an eternity.

In that first hour the magnitude of your arrival began to sink in. Kerri and I would ask each other, “What do you think life will be like with a child?” I always answered, “I don’t know.” I had nothing to compare it to, no frame of reference within which to even begin imagining. I could picture life as a father no better than a blind man could picture the Mona Lisa. So, I am forever grateful for that oversight that allowed me 90 minutes with you.

It seems I’ve shifted perspective and am now writing to Samantha as much as about her. Hmmm…

Well, in that first hour you wrapped my around your finger, and I’ve been there ever sense. Aside from your dark hair, you and I are cut from the same cloth… right down to the freckles that dot our nose and cheeks. We clicked instantly. We cuddled on the couch watching This Old House many Saturdays. You slept for hours on my chest. We are best friends already.

I’m thankful for Samantha, and I thank her for easing me into fatherhood.