DAD. There are truly few people on this earth who I love as much as I love you. Although I’m sure I gave you a run for your money growing up and I didn’t always show you how much I appreciate you, I hope you know that I love you so much.

I am eternally grateful for all the gifts that you’ve given me these twenty years, so this little list is just a few of the many reasons why you’re so special to me.

1. You gave me strength.

Physically and mentally, you’ve taught me how to better myself so that I can take on any task or achieve any goal my heart desires. When it feels like nothing is working out, you’ve shown me how to persevere with a good attitude.

2. You’re my biggest fan.

All of the moments in my life when I’ve failed to believe in myself, you have believed in me. You had faith in me. YOU told me that I can do it, always.

3. You love me unconditionally.

Let’s face it, I’ve had my share of poor decisions. You’ve guided me when things have gone wrong and have somehow loved me every single day of my life.

4. You LOVE life.

Your love for life is contagious. You love seeing all parts of this beautiful world that we live in and treat every day like a gift. Nobody loves this crazy life as much as you do, and you truly make the most of every day you have here.

5. You’re the hardest worker I know.

I may have called you crazy a time or twenty for how much you work, but you are the hardest worker I know. You’ve taught me the importance of hard work and that no one else can do the work for me. “If it is to be, it is up to me”, are words that you’ve engraved into my brain, and they couldn’t be closer to the truth.

6. You don't care what anyone thinks of you.

Growing up with you as a role model has been such a privilege. Your self-confidence has shown me how important it is to just be me and work hard at doing my best.

7. You’ve shared your passions with me.

I can’t thank you enough for sharing the gift of loving running, people, and life with me. You’ve taught me how fun life can be, and I’ve learned some of my very favorite things from you. I will forever love our long runs around the lake and our ice cream trips. #itsthelittlethings

8. You taught me to appreciate.

Above all Dad, you’ve taught me to appreciate everything in life. You’ve taught me to never take for granted the blessings that God gives us. You’ve taught me to appreciate all that life has to offer and to be grateful.

For this and so much more Dad, I thank you. I would be nothing without you and all you’ve taught me. I love you.