KDKA meteorologist captures daughter’s first day of school each year
- Ray Petelin has filmed his daughter Elizabeth on the first day of school every year since kindergarten, creating a cherished tradition.
- The videos showcase Elizabeth's growth and evolving career aspirations, reflecting her desire to help others.
- The emotional connection and widespread popularity of these videos highlight the importance of family moments and the fleeting nature of childhood.
Ray Petelin, a meteorologist at KDKA-TV, has created a touching tradition by interviewing his daughter, Elizabeth, on her first day of school each year since she was in kindergarten. This annual video project allows viewers to witness Elizabeth's growth and changing aspirations over the years. Initially, she expressed a desire to become a doctor, then a teacher, and eventually settled on wanting to be a physical therapist or nurse, reflecting her inclination towards helping others. The videos have gained immense popularity, with millions of views across various social media platforms, including over 33 million on TikTok. Ray expressed his amazement at the global response, highlighting how the videos resonate with many families. He emphasizes the importance of cherishing every moment with children, as time passes quickly, and these memories become precious. In the latest video, Ray reassures Elizabeth of their love and pride in her achievements, marking a significant milestone as she enters her senior year. Elizabeth reciprocates her father's affection, expressing her appreciation for their bond and the video tradition. This heartfelt exchange showcases the deep connection between father and daughter, underscoring the emotional weight of their shared experiences. Ray's advice to new parents is to savor every moment, as childhood is fleeting. His reflections serve as a reminder of the joy and challenges of parenting, encouraging others to create lasting memories with their children, just as he has done with Elizabeth over the years.