Watch: Kindergarten To Final Year, Dad Documents Daughter’s 1st Day Of School

Every year, the first day of school brings a mix of excitement, nerves, and anticipation. For one family, it also marked the beginning of a cherished tradition that has recently captured the hearts of millions. Ray Petelin, a 47-year-old TV meteorologist, has been interviewing his daughter, Elizabeth, on the first day of school every year since she started kindergarten. This year, as Elizabeth embarks on her final year of high school, Ray shared the last video in this wholesome series, which has since gone viral.

Capturing Childhood Dreams: The Beginning of a Tradition

In 2012, when Elizabeth was just five years old, Ray had a simple yet meaningful idea. As she waited for the school bus on her first day of kindergarten, Ray decided to ask her a series of questions. The goal was to capture her thoughts, aspirations, and dreams at the start of each school year, creating a unique time capsule of her journey from childhood to adolescence.

Ray’s questions were straightforward, often focusing on what Elizabeth wanted to be when she grew up. Her answers, as one might expect, evolved over the years. In the first video, a young Elizabeth expressed her dream to become a doctor. As the years passed, her ambitions shifted—from a teacher to a magician, a waitress, and even a heart surgeon, before settling on a physical therapist.

A Bittersweet Milestone: The Final Interview

This year marked the thirteenth and final interview, as Elizabeth prepares to graduate and head off to college. The culmination of this tradition has been both a joyful and bittersweet experience for Ray. Reflecting on the journey, Ray admitted that putting together the final video was an emotional process.

"I put this together late at night so no one would be around because I was just bawling the whole time," Ray shared. The nostalgia hit hard as he looked back at the first video, recalling how it felt like only yesterday when he interviewed his daughter as a bright-eyed kindergartener.

While this may be the last video in the series, Ray isn’t ready to let go entirely. He mentioned that he plans to continue the tradition in some form, perhaps by interviewing Elizabeth when she moves into her own place. The idea of capturing these milestones has become an integral part of their relationship and a way to preserve the fleeting moments of childhood.

The World Takes Notice

Ray's final video, shared on social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter/X, quickly garnered widespread attention. It resonated with parents and viewers worldwide, amassing over 50 million views. The video’s popularity led to multiple television interviews, not only on his own station, KDKA-TV in Pittsburgh but also on major networks across the country. The overwhelming response from viewers included a flood of supportive comments, many of which hailed Ray as "Dad of the Year." As Elizabeth prepares to embark on a new chapter in her life, these videos will serve as a reminder of her journey, her changing dreams, and the unwavering support of her father.

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In a world where time seems to fly by, Ray’s tradition encourages all of us to pause, reflect, and cherish the moments that truly matter. His story has not only touched hearts but also inspired parents everywhere to document and celebrate the fleeting years of their children’s lives.