Shawn,
My utmost congratulations sir! I have a 17 and 13-year old (boys), and the ol lady has a daughter that just turned 13.
Didn't you get the owner's manual? If not, talk to the manufacturer! Oh, wait, that would be you!
Being a parent involves emotions you have never experienced before. It hurts SO bad when they hate you, but feels SO good when they love you. You aren't just the role model... You are their protector, their jailer, their confidant, their teacher, and, at times, their god. One thing: it is never easy.
You'll spend the first two years teaching her to walk and talk, and the next 18 years telling her to shut up and sit down. You'll teach her how to drive and then be too scared for her to let her use the car. The wife is going to show her proper techniques for applying makeup, but you'll hide everything the first day she has a boy walk her home from school. You'll teach her your ethics and rejoice when she makes her own decisions.
For now, enjoy God's gift to you. Remember, when she crys in the middle of the night and wakes you up, it's because she needs you. When she spits up all over your shirt, it's because she loves you enough to spill her guts. When she smiles at you, it's because she trusts you. No other job in the world even compares.
I don't know you outside of this forum, but I have every belief you have brought a valuable and needed addition into this world.
Danielle (Camy's oldest daughter) just turned 13, and she is beginning to realize that the newest growth on her chest seems to have a favorable impact on the boys at school. She asked me some time ago when she will be allowed to date. I told her just as soon as her date can meet me at the door and beat my ass. I'll be 80 years old, still beating them off with my cane and cursing at them with no teeth, and you will, too.
Instill her with honor, integrity, and beliefs, but earn her trust by allowing her to openly admit her mistakes to you.
Until then, just flip a coin to see who's turn it is to change the diaper.
Richard