Dear Dad,

I will forever be grateful for having a father like you. From the moment I was born to the moment we are in now, you have never stopped supporting me and loving me. Sometimes, I don't know how to tell you "thank you" for all that you do, but I'm hoping this will help a little bit.

Thank you for always being there.

I can always count on you for advice and a hug. Thank you for allowing me to ask the silliest life questions such as, "Where does your tax money come from?" You have never turned me away when I needed advice or a hug. Sometimes, you just need a huge, cuddly hug from your Dad. Not only have you been there for me with advice and love, but financially, too. I wouldn't be able to be in college pursuing my dream without your help and I wouldn't have clothes on my back or a roof over my head. However, you have also taught me how to financially fend for myself and how to efficiently save money. For that, I thank you.

Thank you for the experiences you have given me.

All I have to say is this: you must really love me if you sat through concerts for the Jonas Brothers, Miley Cyrus, Justin Bieber, Hilary Duff and One Direction.

Thank you for being silly with me.

Some of my favorite moments in life are when you and I are just kicking back and hanging out. I'll forever cherish car rides and singing to ridiculous music with you...such as the whole Rent and Wicked soundtrack.

Thank you for making me laugh, even in the worst situations.

Dad, most of your jokes are horrible, but I'll never get tired of them. It's come to the point where I laugh at your jokes only because the sight of you cracking up over your own jokes is hilarious. Thank you for bringing light into my life through your odd humor.

Thank you for teaching me to work hard.

I look at you as an inspiration when it comes to working. With plenty of years of working under your belt, I have learned that hard work pays off. Not only do I apply this to any job I come across, but also to my school work. I'll never forget that one word you always told me to strive for: scholarship.

Thank you for teaching me useful life lessons.

Aside from teaching me how to fish and teaching me what good music is, if it wasn't for you, I'd be driving a car with no gas. Not only have you taught me things like pumping my own gas, but you have taught me about important financial things, how to drive, and how hockey works, (lets go Islanders).

On that note, thank you for your kind heart.

You are the type of person who would give the shirt off your back to anybody. Another word you have always told me about is courtesy. Because of you, I have been raised to be humble and kind; I wouldn't want it any other way. All my life, you have taught me to give to others and to be kind and that is something I will carry with me forever.

What I'm trying to say is that I will be eternally grateful for the father you have been and for the life you have given me. One day, I hope that my husband can be half the man that you are.

Love always,

Your appreciative daughter.

P.S.- Thanks for saying yes when Mom says no.