Hey Dad,

Did you really think you'd escape this open letter trend? Well sit back with a nice big cup of black coffee and read on because this one's for you. I promise I'll try not to embarrass you too much!

When I sat down to write this article, I wasn't quite sure how to start. It's hard to put down on paper, or in this case on a computer screen, just how much a parent means to you. Especially when you are so close with him.

You always used to tease me that our relationship started out exactly like Carrie Underwood's All-American Girl:"When the nurse came in with a little pink blanket, all those big dreams changed". See you may have initially thought that having a son was the most likely path for a rough and tumble, “once a Marine always a Marine” like you, but I subsequently came along and changed all of that. I mean you did luck out as I kind of represented the best of both worlds what with being both you little principessa and a nature-loving tomboy when I was younger. I always had someone to go fishing with, coach my sports teams, and encourage me to be the best version of myself. Whether it was academics or extracurriculars, you always made sure I had everything I needed to reach new heights.

I always hear about how much I resemble you and your side of the family, but I don't think people understand how much alike we actually are. Mom always says that I get my silly and creative side from you, and I think my interest in writing can be attributed to your elaborate storytelling and grand imagination. Every time you come up for my sorority's Dads Weekend, everyone is so surprised to see how much we act alike - extroverted, super animated and always happy to make someone laugh. Despite our enviable Father-Daughter friendship, you have always known when to be a father and when to be a friend because let's be honest, sometimes I just needed a little sternness and good lecture. This injection of seriousness and discipline did little to alter our overall dynamic though, in fact, it made me appreciate you even more and I think I’ve grown into a more respectful young adult because, not in spite, of it.

Leaving for college was tough, because I felt like I was losing one of the people who understood me the best. I had to suddenly say goodbye to Supernaturalmarathons, my absolute favorite cheesy movie buddy and the one person who was always down for an outdoors adventure. And although it was difficult I eventually found friends in college who could somewhat fill those spaces in my everyday life, that doesn't mean anyone could ever replace you or even come close to duplicating the relationship we share.

We may not spend as much together as we used to but I want you to know just how much you mean to me. Dad, I don’t think I will never be able to thank you enough for all you’ve done for me, so this simple but heartfelt letter will have to suffice for now.

Love your little principessa,

Francesca