A Christmas morning gift: Cherishing moments of connection with my daughter

Finding meaning in togetherness and mindfulness.

Photo by freestocks on Unsplash

An unexpected tear streamed down my left cheek on Christmas morning. It was just after 5 a.m., and Parker was staring me squarely in the eyes as we prepared to start our day with customary push-ups on the living room floor. I don’t like crying in front of my daughter, though I haven’t fully understood why. I just do my best to prevent her from seeing me shed tears. I tried warning her they were coming, but I couldn’t hold back. I was overcome by emotion. One last blink made my face moist.

Parker didn’t wake up so she could run to presents; she awoke to chase her purpose. What 11-year-old voluntarily jumps out of bed before dawn to exercise on Christmas morning? Parker, that’s who. Because that’s how determined and dedicated she is to pursuing the best version of herself. She committed to the 5 a.m. club whenever she’s with us, and her encouragement is honestly what keeps me rolling out of bed so early.

At first, I thought Parker’s participation was simply a desire to spend time with me. But each morning we begin at 5 a.m., her actions show me that she’s not simply bonding with her father but is seriously committed to her future. Earlier this month, Parker began using the alarm on her smartwatch to wake up. She no longer needs my help. Now, she startles me whenever she’s already awake and on her way to the bathroom at 5 a.m.

Her push-ups, a struggle when she initially joined me on Aug. 16, have improved tremendously. She jokes that her limbs feel like a mix between noodles and burnt toast. But she’s never quit. She’s proving that she knows health is wealth, and she understands the value of sacrifice. Even at 11, she is aware of where hard work, discipline and dedication will lead her, and the abundant life waiting as her reward.

That’s why I looked at Parker on Christmas morning and smiled before I lost control of my emotions. She had once again made me one proud papa. I hope God looks at me the same way because He sees that I’m also on the right path.

In that moment, as I wiped away my singularly disobedient tear, I realized it wasn’t just about the push-ups or the early mornings. It was about the bond we are forging, the values we are nurturing and the dreams we are both chasing. Parker is teaching me as much as I’m teaching her — about resilience, commitment and the power of striving for something greater.

Together, we were more than just father and daughter. We were partners on a journey of growth, learning from each other in ways I never anticipated, sharing a ritual that is shaping not only her future but mine too. On a day often reserved for materialism, we chose mindfulness. Instead of diving straight into the usual holiday hustle, we grounded ourselves with exercise, meditation, journaling and reading.

For the second straight Christmas, I didn’t even get Parker a gift. I’ve committed to a lifestyle of accumulating assets over liabilities, and in our current growth phase that means investing money into stocks for Parker rather than more material stuff. She has never complained about our agreement. She popped out of bed Wednesday morning knowing there wouldn’t be a present waiting for her from Daddy.

Not only did Parker dutifully honor her commitment Wednesday morning, but she also accompanied me for last-minute shopping for the other half of our family. We secured a few thoughtful gifts for Triest and Tiffany that made them smile and should serve them well into the future. I reminded Parker several times beforehand that her 11th birthday celebration recently brought her several gifts. Additionally, her Christmas bonus from her role at Money Talks is my annual gift to her. It just doesn’t come with a shiny bow.

Two awesome gifts my lady friend’s mother got me. Best…Christmas…Ever! Thank you, Ms. T! Skol! 💜

“So how much is my bonus?” Parker asked before retreating to bed at 7 a.m.

She didn’t pose that question last year. She didn’t care. Today, she does. I informed her she’s getting the same amount as last year: $500. When I asked how she would invest her money, Parker took less than 10 seconds to decide. Half, she said, will go into her taxable, custodial account. The other half she will invest into her tax-advantaged Roth IRA.

Next week, Parker will enter both investments from my phone. It’ll take her less than two minutes, and again, she won’t require my help. She’s got this. I’m watching Parker grow into a savvy money manager and, more importantly, the fearless author of her story.

On this Christmas morning, I saw not just my daughter but a growing girl poised to navigate her life with intention and purpose. I will always give all I have to pour into her.