I am not an emotional person. Scratch that, I am not an outwardly emotional person, and growing up I would often get comments about my lack of physical affection. I grew up away from my biological father, which I think is why I struggled with the affectionate part of our relationship for a while. By the time he gained custody of me, I was 13 years old and way too cool to give my dad a hug- especially in public! While I'm over that part of my life, I'm still not super interested in physical affection... or even showing my love verbally. So, dad, this is the best way I can show that I love you! Here is a list of the things that make dad so awesome:

1. The dad jokes.

Sure, you may groan at the jokes your dad makes, but deep down inside you know they're funny! In fact, you'll probably tell that same joke to your friends later, and it'll garner a bunch of laughs!

2. The tough love.

Moms are great when you want someone to lavish affection on you while you spew all the feelings you are experiencing, but that's not always what you need in order to grow as a person. While dads may not say things in the nicest way, they're going to tell you exactly what they think, and it will be exactly what you need.

3. The self-esteem boost.

I know I went through an extremely, extremely awkward phase through middle school and high school where I wouldn't shower as often as I should have, and I would wear outfits that would embarrass a hobo. However, even after the comments about "lack of personal hygiene" and "you are not leaving the house like that" your dad will always tell you you're beautiful- because to him, you are!

4. They teach you how to stand up for yourself.

While moms do this to an extent, I feel like dads really shine when it comes to teaching you how to have a backbone. I was always scared to speak in public, ask for anything from a service person, or admit my mistakes. My dad, however, never let that slide. He would make me go in and ask the manager for an application and apologize for my mistakes.

5. They teach us how to either become a good man, or how to deal with men.

If you're a male, your dad will teach you how to be a good guy, either by being a good example of what to do, or a good example of what not to do. Dads teach their daughters what to look for in a man, how a man should treat us, and how to put up with them on a day-to-day basis.

6. They let us do things that mom won't allow.

Chances are, if mom says no, dad will say us. Unless your parents do that annoying, "I don't know, ask your other parent" thing.

7. They are our less protective voice of reason.

I've noticed that dads will let us do stupid things, if only so that we learn from them. They also let us be a little more adventurous! Moms want to protect us, but dads will let us get a few scrapes and bruises before telling us it was a dumb idea.

8. They're such good texters.

Moms will usually send you a smiley face or a heart to let you know they either got the message, or that they're thinking of you. Dads will seriously just say "K" to everything, and then wonder why you ask if he is mad at you.

9. They will embarrass you.

This is a good thing...eventually. Dads can and will embarrass you more than your mom; and they will enjoy every second. Eventually, you will look back and see that they were trying to show you that you shouldn't take life too seriously, and that they love you.

10. They push you.

While moms are encouraging and sweet, dads will give you that extra little push you need towards success. Whenever you feel as though your goals are just out of reach, a dad will push you to be just a little bit better. And you will thank him for it down the road.

11. Bear hugs.

If you need a back-crushing bear hug, dads are just the person to go to. It's like when you need comfort, they turn into an actual bear and try to give you chiropractic treatment instead of a hug, but hey! It totally makes you feel better.

My dad has to be the most caring, embarrassing, loving, and inspiring person I know. Not only does he lead me by example, but he's always there if I need some advice. He will scare away boys that he doesn't like for me, but will support me when I'm in a relationship. My dad will tell me like it is, and if I cry because honesty sometimes hurts, he'll be waiting with a hug. My dad is just a call away when I'm struggling with stress and anxiety. He puts up with my dislike of phone calls by texting me, and lets me know when I'm being an idiot. Even though I am now an adult, I'll always be his child, and he will always love me unconditionally.

Dad, I know I don't say this often enough, but I love you.