Father’s day was this past weekend and I’ve been thinking a lot about my dad and all he has done for me. As a family we decided to take a weekend trip to Dollywood to celebrate, but it’s easy to see how it was more work than fun for him throughout the weekend trying to keep everyone pleased, especially my six-year-old siblings. I was really able to see and appreciate all that my dad has done for me from watching him throughout the trip. Here is a huge thank you to him and all of us who had Dad’s who do so much for us.

1. Telling us no

It seems odd to thank someone for telling us no because usually we don't particularly enjoy it. However, every time our dads told us no it was only for our benefit. Whether it was telling us no when we asked for a new toy because we didn't really need it or telling us no to going out so late because he knew it wouldn't be safe, our dads were always watching out for us. Not only did the no's keep us safe but they also shaped us into better people.

2. Occasionally letting us have our way

For every no there is also a time dad caved and gave in to letting us have our way. So, we have to thank him for that because where would we be without that giant ice cream cone he bought for us? The yes' mean as as much as the no's because they let us have a little fun along the way.

3. Having our backs

Our dad's are aways there to support us with the big things. But, they also support us in the little things. In the amusement park this weekend, the bag with all of our money, phones, sunglasses, etc. was carried around by different people throughout the day. When I was left in charge of it I accidentally left it where we were sitting. My dad noticed a moment after we got up. Not only did he have my back in this, but he also kept this information from my mom who would have been furious. So, even when you're nineteen years old your dad is still looking out for you.

4. Putting us first

No matter what, our dads always put our needs before theirs. It's a lot of hard work. When you have six people in the family like I do, keeping everyone happy is difficult to manage. Everyone always wants to do something different, but my dad always makes sure everyone else's needs are met before his own. A big thanks to our dads for putting their wants and needs on hold for us.

5. For loving us unconditionally

This one may seem obvious but if you've ever done something incredibly stupid that you thought could never be forgiven, and then you dad forgives you, you realize just how unconditional his love is. So, thank you dads for loving us so well. We'll never be able to thank you enough but we love you just as much as you love us.