Daddy,

Thank you. Thank you for stepping up to be a dad to a child who was not your own. Thank you for being my hero. Thank you for being the man that someone else couldn't be. You walked into my and mom's life when I was 2. While I don't remember much from that time, what I do remember was that you were my world. You became not only a father figure to me, but also became one of my best friends. I wanted to do everything with you because you became so important to me.

You were a young 25-years-old, barely older than a kid yourself, when you met mom. The fact that you didn't even hesitate when you found out she had a child still amazes me, and it's a testament to the man you are. You jumped right in and immediately took me on as your own.

I remember fishing trips at the lake house, where it was me, you, and Georgie on the bank, and you helping me reel in my fish on my bubblegum pink Barbie fishing pole. I remember our Jaguars games, and you teaching me what it meant to be a real fan of your team, even when they aren't doing the best (yes, I'm talking about you Bortles). I remember the day in which you proposed to momma at the Jags vs. Chiefs game, and though I didn't know what was going on, I could tell it was important. Little did I know that this meant you would be marrying mom and adopting me.

You took me on and has always treated me as your own. You were and still are one of my biggest supporters in everything I do. From hearing you cheer me on in softball games, to you teaching me to drive after that not so great incident (RIP to the white van), to you helping me anytime I fell. You have been my rock and my hero, and I will never be able to express my gratitude for your support.

You've always had my back dad, and the older I grow, the more respect I have for your choices in life. You have done so much for a child that was not yours biologically, and for that, you will always be the best dad in the world. So thank you, dad, for being an amazing, loving, selfless human. I love you lots dad!