By David Tepera, May 6, 2025

If you have a daughter, then this article is for you. Now, how do I begin?
You all know I was a single parent raising Dylan and Daylyn since they were very young. I had two other sons from a previous marriage who were much older. My only daughter Daylyn just happened to be the youngest and she changed my world.
I’ve always been known as a man’s man. I played multiple sports, plus competed in every athletic competition I could find. All my boys had the same experience as I. We were just a bunch of guys and I was teaching them how to be men. Just know, all my boys learned to be gentlemen and treat women with respect.
Okay, then along comes Daylyn. I thought “it’s all good, she is going to be one of the boys”. Nope, that little girl stole my heart. All of a sudden, I learned to braid hair, bake cookies with matching aprons, including regular manicures and pedicures.
So, let’s back up a bit. I chose to allow my daughter to be strong minded and take up for herself. Daylyn competed in martial arts for many years. Just know, back in the day, my little girl could beat up your son. Since she grew up in an athletic environment, Daylyn played multiple sports, with finally excelling in volleyball.
There was a time I apologized to Daylyn for not putting her in more girly activities. Her response was she hated high-heels, and would rather wear sneakers any day.
Don’t get me wrong, even though I raised my little girl to be as strong and respectful as her brothers, she is still all girl. I didn’t just teach her to be a lady, but to understand how to be treated as a lady.
Well, this Saturday, Daylyn is graduating college like many other young adults. She has had many battles along the way to reach this major accomplishment. We can’t express the pride and love for her to walk across the stage.
Daylyn has touched many lives throughout her young life from creating a children’s foundation to pursuing an elementary teaching position. I’m proud to know that my little girl who is all grown up will continue to be someone who makes this world a better place. So, look out, here comes daddy’s little girl.