Dear Darlene,
I guess you know about the nationals. Sorry that I broke your old record. I know how much it meant to you. Daddy says not to worry that he still loves you. And it's only a swimming record. Someone else will come along and break it, so no use getting upset.
Daddy has quit drinking (Thank God!) and is so happy with my performance that he is taking me on a fishing trip in the mountains. Dad is a good sport and I've grown very close to him in the lost few days.
Remember my old swimming coach Bert Anderson? He's quit the Strand swim club and has run off with some stewardess. He was never happy as a coach and I wish him the best.
This is all for now. Do write. I fell really good for the first time in my life. I guess it's Daddy. He's really changed since he quit the booze.
What I needed all along was a little reassurance from Dad. You know, he can be the best guy in the whole world.
See ya,
Alice