Stephanie M. Kim is the new Associate Editor at SavvyAuntie.com, and Allison's proud Auntie by Relation.

My niece Allison is the spittin' image of her dear old dad. Ever since she was born, friends, family and passersby have all been equally awe-stricken by the daddy-daughter resemblance. Of course, as the Auntie from the mommy's side of the family, I'm always quick to point out that Allison is her mother's daughter too. But deep down, even I'll admit that the bond between these two is special.

As a girl who didn't (and still doesn't) have the strongest or most intimate connection with her father, I regard Allison's relationship with her daddy with the utmost respect, admiration and the slightest twinge of longing. I still remember watching him cradle Allison to sleep just days after she was born and humming to her as if they shared a secret language.

Since I've been away, my brother-in-law has had to amp up his work days, and hasn't been able to spend as much time with Allison as he used to. So when my sister took a trip to Miami for a bachelorette party this past weekend, it was time for some quality daddy-daughter time. They went to the local fair together, ate sloppy-sweet ice cream cones (Allison's favorite treat, see photo above), and went toy shopping. The ultimate daddy-daughter weekend!

With Father's Day fast-approaching, I couldn't imagine a better time for Allison to get reacquainted and absolutely spoiled by her pop. I hope every Auntie and niece out there gets to do the same this weekend.

Happy Father's Day!

Love, Allison's devoted LDA (Long-Distance Auntie)

Published: June 15, 2011