“You are my sunshine, my only sunshine, you make me happy when skies are gray, you’ll never know dear how much I love you, please don’t take my sunshine away.” My dad would sing this song to me as a little girl whenever I was sad in order to cheer me up. Nineteen years later and I still remember these lyrics word for word. They bring me a sense of comfort and joy because I think of my dad and how close we are. Growing up, I was labeled as “Daddy’s little princess” and even had a sign in my room with those three words because there was not anything that my father wouldn’t do for me. Over the last nineteen years, my relationship with him has grown immensely and I can easily say that he is one of my best friends.

To my Dad,

Thank you for supporting me no matter what decisions I have made. You have always been the person to tell me to try new things and take risks because I need to reach outside of my little bubble. One of the main reasons that I am able to fall fearlessly into life and not be overly scared is because I know I have you behind me supporting me in case it does not work out.

Thank you for always giving me advice no matter the situation. After going to college, I quickly learned that aside from you as my one of my best friends, I would also have a new best friend named FaceTime. Whether I have called to check-in or because I am homesick and stressed out, you have always been there to give me advice and tell me that it will all be okay.

Thank you for caring. You have always been the first person to notice if I am upset or bothered about something. Everytime you see me in a weird mood you ask “Is everything okay?” or “What’s wrong?” You are always making sure that I am happy and if I have a problem I know that I always have you to talk to.

Thank you for making me laugh. Although I will never admit it to your face, I do think you are funny sometimes, but only sometimes. Whether you are making fun of me for being a slob, cracking a joke at the dinner table or just sharing a funny story, you are always there to make me laugh and cheer me up.

Lastly, thank you for being you. In the past 19 years, you have taught me how to be a strong, independent, caring, hardworking and smart young woman. Whenever I doubt myself, need advice or just want someone to talk to, you are always there. Thank you for being my dad and best friend all in one because I would truly be lost in this great big world without you. Thank you for letting me be your little princess. Thank you for being my sunshine. Love you forever and always dad.

Love,

Your Daughter