As a father of two daughters, I’ve learned that there are just some things I would have to learn to connect at a deeper level. So, I paint their nails. Yes, I do. I paint their nails. And, I’ve recently learned how to use a flat iron.

The hair part came out of necessity. My wife returned to the workforce, which created the all-new adventures of “Daddy Gets Daughter’s Ready For School, Which Means He Has To Help Them Straighten Their Hair.” Hey, I want my kids to look good!

My limit is once or twice a week, though. There's nothing like a hairbrush and a rubber band to save the day.

I wanted girls. I never was the avid outdoorsman, or the sports junkie type. I didn’t grow up in a home like that, so I never learned to enjoy those activities. I worried I may not have been adequate enough for a son. Of course, that’s not what makes someone adequate as a father. But, I was insecure. After I had two girls, I sometimes think I should have taken up hunting, and found a nice quiet deer stand somewhere. No guns necessary. Just me, a tree, and no estrogen!

You’d think being the only man in the house would have its benefits. Who knew that women had the right to commandeer your shaving cream and razors? If they would at least rinse the razor, I’d never know!

And as my girls grow older, their demand for my attention seems to increase. Who’s more special? Who’s prettier? Who’s your favorite? My answer is always “yes.”

There really is something special about having daughters. My heart aches at the thought of walking them down the aisle someday. Don’t girls marry people like their fathers? Oh, what fun that’s going to be! Two more of me at Thanksgiving. Well, they better know how to baste a turkey, that’s all I’ve got to say.

I’m truly fascinated at my girls. I love watching them grow and mature. The crazy emotions and mood swings, while not in the moment, do at some point bring a smile to my face. I imagine them with their own families someday. I picture them with their own children, in front of mirrors, talking about the day ahead, as they primp and brush.

It warms my heart to know in those tiny moments of the future, they’ll remember these tiny moments from the past. And just for that, I’ll paint their nails, and straighten their hair for as long as they let me.

Besides… nail polish smells pretty good.