I’ve heard women say that they never had anything in common with their dad. That he wasn’t interested in them. I can almost see how some men could feel that way. Before my daughter was born, I’d never been to a tea party or been interested in coloring one’s nails or played with dolls (G.I. Joe is an action figure, dammit!). Females in general and little girls in particular are interested in many things completely outside of my ken. Oh, but if you shy away from them, I say you are a fool!

I enjoy my violent video games and motorcycle racing. I am interested in the technical aspects of photography and computers. But I’ve learned to love some new things as well. Not for the thing itself (although a nice, cozy pretend tea party can be relaxing), but for the fun of doing it with my daughter. I’ve found that one of the best things I can do is play with my children. That their happiness is my happiness.

Maybe we aren’t as interested in the same toys; but we do love each other’s company. And that’s really the most important thing to have in common after all.