Dad, sometimes it's hard to find the words to truly explain how much you mean to me. I know I should tell you these things more often, so here are the words that escape me when I need tell you them the most.

1. You were there for me when no one else was

Whether it was a bad day at school and I had no one to talk to or if I just needed a shoulder to cry on, you were always there. You listened to my never-ending rants, you held me when I cried, you hugged me when I just needed a hug from my dad.

2. You're my best friend

My go-to, my goofy goober, my partner in crime. Through thick and thin, you've been there with me literally since day one. Being able to call you my best friend is the biggest blessing.

3. You're a one-of-a-kind role model

You have always been someone I idolize, whether it's in your everyday acts of kindness, your dedication to your family, or your never-ending passion to be the best you can be. You've always been the one I could look up to, never doubt your abilities to be someone I call my hero.

4. I couldn't ask for a better dad

Honestly. Who could ever beat you as a father? If I end up being half as great of a parent you are, I'd be the best. You understand me better than I understand myself. I mean, I do have the greatest of greats as a father, could I be any luckier?

5. I love you more then I could ever explain

My heart aches at the fact that one day I might have to live my life without you in it, so know that I simply love you with everything I have.

6. I know how much you've sacrificed

You destined your life to be a father. You gave up everything to live up to your title as a father and holy crap am I thankful. I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for you, so thank you for giving this job your all and putting me first.

7. Nobody could ever replace you

Nobody compares to you. If I could give you the 'best dad award' everyday for the rest of your life, I would because you are just that great! I know it hasn't always been the easiest job in the world, but just know that nobody in any lifetime could replace you as my father.

8. You're the first man I've ever loved

And for that, I'm forever thankful. You taught me how I deserve to be treated. You set the highest of standards for what it means for me to be loved. I will never settle for less because you taught me what it was like to have the greatest.

9. You're a good dad

Know that even when I'm in the worst of situations, when it feels like you could have done something differently, you've done it. I may have not always been the best kid in the world, but you stuck through it all. I mean you couldn't have done that bad of a job considering I turned out to be pretty great, right?

10. I'm a better person because I have you as a Dad

You made me the person I am today. You taught me how to be kind, how to be compassionate, how to be golden. I am who I am, because of you, and I am so proud to be your daughter.

11. Thank you

Dad, you deserve to know how much I appreciate you. Thank you for all your warm embraces when I've needed you. Thank you for making sure I have everything I've ever needed. Thank you for always being there for me. Thank you for all the life lessons I get to pass on in your name. Thank you for giving me the best life I could have imagined. Thank you for being my dad.

All that you've done for me cannot be put into words as to how thankful I am. You've made me the person I am today and because of that, I am so lucky to have you as a father. So thank you, Dad. I hope I make you proud.