Though I've never been directly told so, I imagine that, as my dad grew up playing football, riding dirt bikes, and smashing lizards, he envisioned what it would be like to that with his own son one day. Little did he know that the closest thing he'd have to a son would be a boy dog.

I often admire the fact that my dad lives in a house of three women, all of which talk and sound exactly the same and generally think the same as well. While he might look at it a bit differently, I think that this situation formed all four of us into who we are today. There are many benefits to being a "daddy's girl."

For example, you get to discuss all different kinds of topics that girls don't normally talk about. I know more about sports that I probably ever need to, football in particular. I've spent almost every Sunday sitting with my dad and watching football games for entire afternoons at a time. I also know more about beer than necessary, especially because I rarely ever drink it. I'm also getting to the point where knowing the make and model of a car is kind of interesting. Additionally, being a daddy's girl ensures that you experience a childhood filled with camping adventures and other outdoor activities you wouldn't normally do, all the while listening to old rock or country music.

Another perk is that it's usually hard for dads to get really mad at little girls. While I definitely did and still will get in trouble, I know he's much softer on me because I'm a girl (plus crying helps). He gives honest opinions, even when it's not what I want to hear but listens and asks questions to make sure.

Car problems? One phone call fixes that. He's the one that brings it into the shop, changes the tires, and when I'm home, fills it up with gas for me. On that same note, having my dad in the house has always made me feel safe and protected from anything.

Another thing I can count on my dad for is to always love (or at least pretend to love) and keep the gifts I give him, whether that be a tie made from construction paper or a photo collage.

Going to his office was always an adventure, even if it was a weekly occurrence. Nothing seemed more grown up than walking into a big corporate building and everyone knowing who you were because they know who your dad is.

He also scores major brownie points for all the shopping excursions we've dragged him to throughout the years. Nine times out of ten, you can find him sitting and waiting on a bench outside of the store, not complaining. Bonus when he gives you the credit card too.

Most importantly, if you're as lucky as I am, your dad has provided an example of who you want to date and eventually marry. I am beyond grateful that my dad is one of my best friends, a strong guardian, and one of the funniest people I know.