Dear Dad,
I hope you know that no matter what boys I date, no matter where I go, no matter what I do, I will always look to you for a nod of approval.
Some of my earliest memories are of you lifting me on your shoulders, brushing my hair after baths, and taking me to lunch when we went to the store together. You always knew what to say to make my tears go away, you did the best voices for story time, and I loved your lullabies.
It wasn’t until I was older I understood when you told me time flies by and the years become shorter. I feel like it was just yesterday that you could carry me to bed when I fell asleep on the couch. I remember you being my coach and my mentor in all sports. You taught me the meaning of hard work and perseverance.
I'm also glad I have a dad who is so funny. You never failed to put a smile on my face when I was sad. Whether is was a scratch on the knee or a break up with a silly boy, you were always there to turn my frown upside down.
You also showed me how a man should treat a woman. Thank you for being the best husband to my mom so I know what I should expect from my future husband. No marriage is perfect but if you and mom have been together this long, you must be doing something right. God has always been a working force in your lives and I hope for the same in my future family.
And thank you for teaching me how to drive. You and mom drive differently, so it wasn’t easy to learn from both of you, but you made it a great learning experience. I remember driving in circles around parking lots until you thought I was ready for a road. And I couldn’t believe I was doing it, but you helped me so much!
I know I did a lot of things that didn’t make you proud. I am so sorry for the times I let you down. There are no excuses except for my own ignorance. I thought I knew everything there was to know about life, except I knew nothing. I didn’t fully understand the dangers and consequences of the real world. I didn’t respect your knowledge of life and experience. And I didn’t listen when you said, “I was your age once too.” I wish I had listened sooner. But thank you for always forgiving me instead of giving up on me.
Now, as an adult, I can see all the things you were preparing me for. You taught me morals and values to carry with me into college and work. You taught me how to be an independent woman before needing a man in my life. Most importantly you taught me how to take on the world without fear and to know that you and mom will always be there for me if I fall. Thank you for raising me to be tough, kind and a woman of God. My life wouldn’t be going in the direction it would be without you.
I love you with all my heart and soul,
My first best friend.
My dad.
With all the hugs and kisses,
Your girl
