Dear You,

There are so many ways I could start this off. It's you, so I could start off with a pun or a dad joke or I could bring out something super sentimental. I'll let you figure out which one I decided on.

I know that I never take the time to tell you just how much I appreciate you (and I know that you're not always the sentimental type anyway), but it's Father's Day, so deal with it.

All joking aside, you have done more for me in the short time you've been in my life than most people do for others throughout an entire lifetime. You do so much for everyone around you without ever expecting anything in return and that alone says so much for who you are. Who you are is a person that I am so incredibly blessed and lucky to know.

When we first met, I'll admit that I wasn't exactly ecstatic about you being around. You'd started dating my mom and everything was new and weird. That was 4 years ago (4? I think? I don't know, it's basically been forever) and you'll be happy to know that my feelings did a complete 180. You never asked to be my dad and you've always made sure that I knew you would never try to be the man my father was. You've told me before that you would never try to replace my father and you haven't.

I never expected to hug you when I'm upset and talk to you about emotional things, but we do. We laugh over beer and you teach me about cars and guns. You never asked to be my dad, but you're the closest thing to a dad I know right now.

You' mean so much to my mom and I. I can't imagine life without you after all you've become to me. You never asked for this role but it's yours. You've never treated me any differently than any of your blood related children and you consider me one of your own. You're quick to jump at any opportunity to help me out and you treat me like any father should treat his daughter. I used to ask myself what my dad would do or say at times when I needed him most, but now I find myself instead coming to you for advice. You are the father I needed and the person I run to when things fall apart.

Thank you for being selfless, kind, caring, man that has made our family feel whole.
Thank you for being my almost dad.

Happy Father's Day! I love you!
-Me