New but not new Dad
For context, we found out 6 months ago, I am the biological father to a 3.5yo girl. Story is a little complex. But we both didnt have any clue until I asked for the test, so both of us are at fault. I met her for 4 days in February, then a week in April. Now im here for the month just hanging around doing my thing and being available when they have time. Its going great, especially since the visit before was just too much stress for everyone fitting me in. But even though I dont see her as much as I want, im enjoying every moment I spend with her and am very appreciative of the time her mother is somehow carving out in her busy schedule for me.
I live 800km, we have been since week one doing weekly video calls and will be doing my best to make monthly visits when I start work again in a few weeks.
She calls me "papa" and can only occasionally hold her hand, very rarely a hug, most often at the moment i can get at best a hi5. Im very patient and I know it takes time, but I find it hard to know i want those hugs and full connection and come to me when she's crying. I normally just laugh it off when she pushes me away and tells me to leave with her sassy look (I kinda love it).
I know she doesn't trust me yet and I still do get moments of closeness with her. I just don't want to be set back to the start every time I come visit. Any extra tips to keep her thinking about me between gaps would be appreciated?
(I.e. I will have another month off in November to spend with them and won't be possible until next year this time to move here)