But to me you know you'll always be, my little girl.

they often sing of Daddy's girls.

the thing about growing up is that you're in a constant tension.
songs like this always feel like its something my dad would say if he could put them into words.
and its such songs that often slaps me in the face, make my heart seemingly compressed by a tight fist.
memories you share that flashes by when the words starts to make sense.
the knowing that the finite time we have with our parents, whether seperated by distance, age or life, can never ever be enough.

Tim McGraw: My Little Girl.

"Gotta hold on easy as I let you go.
Gonna tell you how much I love you,
though you think you already know.
I remember I thought you looked like an angel wrapped in pink so soft and warm.
You've had me wrapped around your finger since the day you were born.

You beautiful baby from the outside in.
Chase your dreams but always know the road that'll lead you home again.
Go on, take on this whole world.
But to me you know you'll always be, my little girl.

When you were in trouble that crooked little smile could melt my heart of stone.
Now look at you, I've turned around and you've almost grown.
Sometimes you're asleep I whisper "I Love You!" in the moonlight at your door.
As I walk away, I hear you say, "Daddy Love You More!".

(Repeat Chorus)

Someday, some boy will come and ask me for your hand.
But I won't say "yes" to him unless I know, he's the half
that makes you whole, he has a poet's soul, and the heart of a man's man.
I know he'll say that he's in love.
But between you and me. He won't be good enough. "