Name: Reecee Rae City: St. Louis, MO | @iamcurvyvixen

Dad’s Name: Miller J

Describe your relationship with your Father and how did that impact you?

My daddy (yes, I still call him daddy) is my backbone. He’s knows me better than I know myself. He has 3 girls and I’m the oldest. We have a special kind of bond, our own little inside jokes and humor. When things are tough he motivates me in a way that shocks me every time. My daddy was around when my mother wasn’t. My grandparents raised me but he definitely was there also. He showed me what to expect from a man and what not to accept: the good, the bad, and the ugly. He provided for me but also showed me how to provide for myself and my child and I’m forever thankful for that.

What’s the best thing you’ve learned from your Father?

The best things I’ve learned from my daddy is you can be uniquely you without a care in the world because people are gonna judge regardless; your mistakes don’t make you who you are; and how to fix stuff on my car lol.

What struggles did you face in your relationship with your Dad and how did you get through them?

Being my daddy’s first daughter, I was daddy’s girl. When my little sister came, I didn’t like that AT ALL! What you mean I have to share my daddy with some else??! For years I held that against him. He didn’t change up. I just had to share my daddy, however, I didn’t want to.

I remember sometime after my second little sister was born, I wanted to do something or wanted something I don’t quite remember but I went clean off on my daddy. Like cursing and EVERYTHING! I didn’t speak to him for months. I remember him calling my grandparents house looking to talk. I didn’t want to until one day I just decided enough was enough. When I called, I apologized for my behavior and we had a talk like adults. That conversation brought out a brand new relationship with us. It’s been a blessing since. When I found out I had breast cancer, I didn’t tell him. He was pissed because he felt I knew better not to tell him. He would check on me daily, just to see how I was. Even had a pink bracelet made for me. That brought me tears.

What has your relationship with your Father taught you about what to look/not look for in your partner?

My relationship with my daddy taught me that a man provides but he also needs nurturing. Don’t be afraid to accept help from someone who is willing. If you need to ask, the worst thing a person can say is “yes” or “no”. My daddy is the only man in my 30 plus years that I can be completely vulnerable with. That is something that I’m still working on with a partner.

How has your relationship with your Father shaped the woman you are today?

My daddy called me beautiful. He told me I can do and be what I wanted. Because of him, my confidence is past the moon. Flaws and all. Mothers are normally the motivation to parenthood but it was my daddy. He’s been there and still is. Never gave up on me and that added to the love I have for my daughter. I have a hustle about me. I get that from my daddy. He hustled when I was little. I picked up on certain things that help me to this day.

If you could write a short letter to your father, starting with “Dear Father,” what would you say?

Dear Daddy,

I’m thankful for you! Thank you for being a great dad to me, my sisters and a greater grandpa to your granddaughters. I love you with all my heart. You know when the plaza on fire I’ll be there with my helicopter(insider) LOL! Thank you for helping me be the woman I am today. I know you say you’re proud of me, but I’m shooting to make you prouder. Thank you and I love you deep big dawg!

Love,
Your favorite Daughter