Today is the first day of spring and it’s time for me to finally spring forward. I have dwelt on this idea long enough.
Today, I’m officially flipping the switch on something I first dreamed up back in 2005.
It’s called DODO Dads, and a DODO stands for Dad of Daughters Only.
DODOs are fantastic fathers who are outnumbered, outmatched and frequently out of cash, but also deeply blessed.
As of today, DODO Dads is officially live.
This is a place where good fathers become even better girl dads through humor, encouragement and a little bit of “how did I survive that?” wisdom.
As a DODO myself with three now-grown daughters, who all survived me, too, I felt called to launch this platform for a few reasons.
First, it’s fun.
There is nothing quite like watching a fully-grown man trying to navigate hair braids, hormones and the never-ending emotional plot twists he never saw coming. The stories alone are worth it.
Second, it’s needed.
I’ve been surprised by how many women have told me how much the relationship with their dad meant, or how much they wish it had been different. That really motivates me.
Third, it’s necessary.
Let’s be honest, raising daughters can feel like being dropped into a foreign country without a translator while holding a wallet that’s constantly under attack.
I remember feeling completely out of my league at times. Thankfully, some incredible men stepped in along the way with sage advice, great perspective and just enough humor to keep me sane. I want to pass that along.
This community is not just for dads raising only daughters, we also welcome:
- Dads with a good mix of sons and daughters
- Dads raising one girl in a house full of boys
- Stepdads building relationships with their bonus daughters
- Grandfathers who want to make a lasting impact on the young women in their lives
If you’re in the fatherhood game, you’re in the right place.
When I look back at my life, with all the mistakes I’ve made, the one thing I got right was raising my daughters. They’ve brought me more joy, adventure and purpose than I ever could have imagined.
When they were little, I still remember praying, “God, please don’t let me mess them up.”
Somehow, by his grace, I didn’t.
Now it’s my turn to help other dads in the trenches to do the same, or at least avoid a few of my dumbest and most expensive mistakes.
So whether you’re raising one sweet princess or a full-blown squad of giggling, eye-rolling, snack-demanding girls, join the DODO Dads Facebook group today at:
www.facebook.com/groups/dododads
Introduce yourself. Ask a question. Share a story. Drop a dad joke. (Actually, please do that. We love those.)
This is going to be fun. Buckle up, the adventure is just beginning.
