Dear Claire: The Beginning of Our Story

Dear Claire,

Right now, you’re just a few months old.
You’re asleep (for the moment, which feels like a small miracle), and I’m sitting here thinking about how much has already changed in such a short time.

To be honest, I never really understood what people meant when they said time moves fast once you have a child. Now I feel it every single day.

I started this little project, this collection of letters, because there are so many things I want you to know. Things I hope you’ll read one day, maybe when you’re older, or even when you become a parent yourself. Maybe in a moment when you’re facing something tough, or just curious about these early days.

But if I’m being honest, I also started this for me.

Writing these letters helps me slow down in the middle of all the feeding schedules, diaper changes, sleepless nights, and endless Google searches (is this normal?) and take a breath. It helps me pay attention to the moments that really matter.

Like the way you grip my finger so tightly, like you’re holding onto me with everything you’ve got.
Or how your tiny breaths somehow calm me and remind me to just be here, fully.
Or how your mom and I, even in the hard moments, look at you and feel something bigger than exhaustion or fear. Something closer to wonder.

What Becoming Your Dad Feels Like

The truth is, Claire, I was scared before you arrived. I wondered if I’d be enough.
Would I know how to protect you?
Would I know how to raise you into the incredible person I already see in your eyes?

I still feel that fear some days. But what I’m learning, even now, is that being your dad isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about showing up. Every single day. With love, patience, and the willingness to learn right alongside you.

You’ve already taught me so much.

You’ve taught me to celebrate the small wins, like a smooth feeding or even just an hour of sleep.
You’ve taught me to lean on your mom even more, and to be thankful for the teamwork it takes to raise you.
And you’ve taught me that love is deeper and more powerful than I ever imagined.

Why I’m Writing These Letters

I want you to know, not just hear but really know, that from the very start, you were loved more than words can describe.

These letters are my way of keeping a record of this wild and beautiful journey. The lessons, the laughs, the hard days, and the quiet moments that make it all worth it. Someday, when you read them, I hope you see not just who you were, but who I was becoming too. Your father.

And to anyone else reading, welcome.
This is our story, Claire’s and mine, but maybe it feels a little like yours too. Maybe you’re a new parent, or about to become one, or maybe you’re just curious about what this part of life looks like. Either way, I’m glad you’re here.

With all my love,
Dad

PS:
If this letter felt familiar to you, or if you know someone who might appreciate it, feel free to share. We’re all figuring this out together, one letter at a time.

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