Sadie Story Of The Week

The Life Jacket Look

This week, Sadie tried on her very first life vest.

Because summer = boats, pool floats, and a dad who needs every layer of safety before anyone leaves dry land.

She’s not even in the water yet, and she already looks like a tiny marshmallow with shoulder pads.

The vest is “newborn size” but swallowed her whole. Arms stuck, neck stiff, and any sense of personal pride officially on pause.

She just stared at us like,

“Is this a fashion choice… or a punishment?”

But here’s the thing: it’s required for boat rides, safe float sessions, and gives you peace of mind while around water.

Lesson learned: safety first, style later.

Dad Tip: Always test the fit before the fun. It should be snug, Coast Guard approved, and preferably pink with cartoon sharks. Because why not?

Dad-To-Dad Wisdom

Quote Of The Week

"Your daughter will follow your example, not your advice."

— Unknown

They’re always watching.

How you speak when you're frustrated. How you treat people when no one else is around. How you handle failure, patience, love.

Raising a daughter isn’t just about protecting her.

It’s about modeling the kind of man you’d want her to trust, learn from, and someday stand beside.

So be the example. She’s taking notes, even when you think she’s just chewing on a teether.

Dad Hacks & Tips

The Screen Time Strategy

Look, we’ve all handed over the iPad in a moment of survival. No judgment here.

But if you’re trying to keep screen time in check without sparking a full-blown rebellion, here’s the hack: create a “when/then” rule.

“When we clean up toys, then you can watch a show.”

“When we finish dinner, then you get 20 minutes of Bluey.”

Why it works:

✔️ Gives structure without the power struggle

✔️ Turns screen time into a reward, not a routine

✔️ Teaches her that fun comes after responsibility

Bonus tip: Set a timer. That way, the clock is the bad guy, not you.

Screens aren’t the enemy. But boundaries? That’s dad-level leadership.

Looking for simple ways to connect and grow together?

Daddy & Me Learning Pack - Packed with screen-free educational activities.

Girl Dad Guide to Mindful Parenting - All about showing up with intention, packed with quick wins for a deeper connection.

100 Kid-Friendly Recipes - Delicious dishes designed to bring dads & Daughters together in the kitchen for fun, learning, and unforgettable memories.

Daddy & Daughter Coupon Book - Filled with 30 adorable, silly, and heartwarming coupons that daughters can redeem from dad.

Girl Dad Spotlight

“I learned that my daughter isn’t as fragile as I thought.”

-Russell Wimberly

Took my daughter to one of our favorite traditions, a daddy-daughter dance, and we had an absolute blast. From snow cones to dance battles to goofy games, we made memories that I’ll hold onto forever.

At one point, I told her I was worried a boy might break her heart one day. She looked me dead in the eye and said, “My heart’s not easily broken.”

That moment hit me deep.

She’s strong. She’s confident.

And I must be doing something right.

Share Your Story & Be Featured In An Upcoming Newsletter

Have a story that made you laugh, cry, or question your sanity?

We want to feature your funniest or most emotional girl-dad moment in an upcoming issue.

Whether it’s a tea party meltdown, a bedtime heart-to-heart, or the moment she called you “dude” in public, we want to hear it.

Just fill out this quick form to be considered:

The more heartfelt or hilarious, the better.

Papa Poll Of The Week

Vote now!

Results will be posted in next Friday’s newsletter.

Last Week’s Poll Results

What’s the best part about being a girl dad?

This one didn’t even come close.

Those quiet, everyday moments, little arms around your neck, sleepy “I love yous,” the way she says “Daddy” like it’s the most important title in the world?

That’s what hit home.

Maybe it’s because so much of parenting feels loud, fast, and full of uncertainty. But that one hug, that soft whisper at bedtime, it cuts through the noise.

And sure, she might forget what you packed in her lunch or how many times you read The Very Hungry Caterpillar.

But she’ll remember how safe she felt in your arms.

And if that’s the part that sticks? You’re doing it right.

The Last Crumb

Soak It Up While It’s Still Summer

The days are starting to feel shorter.

Back-to-school ads are creeping in.

And the bedtime routine you sort of abandoned in June is waiting to strike back.

But here’s the thing, summer’s not over yet.

There’s still time for a few more messy popsicles, more barefoot walks, more slow mornings where the only plan is being together before work.

Because soon, it’s backpacks and drop-offs and packed lunches again.

But right now?

She’s still asking for “just five more minutes.”

Give them to her.