From the day I was born, you could see it. My big blue eyes, the way I crinkled my nose... I was my father's daughter, and I still am. My grandma tells me I pout like him, my friends tell me I drive like him, and my sisters tell me I laugh like him. No matter what it is, i'm just like him, and I love it.
Growing up in the south, everyone is a daddy's girl, but my connection with my dad goes beyond that. He knows when i'm in a mood or upset, just by looking at me. He starts text messages, sent at 2:30 in the afternoon, off by saying, "when you wake up", knowing well aware that i'm taking a nap. He asks if I'm down for burgers, even if he already knows the answer. He gives me advice if I claim I don't want any, because he knows I need it. But more than that, I need him.
He always shows up. From dance recitals, to talent shows, he's always been there. After an opening night performance, I could always count on him to be standing in the lobby waiting for me with a big smile and a bouquet of flowers. He's always supporting me and pushing me to do my best. Girls need that, and I had that.
Now that I'm older I can see him in myself. The way we love crazy food combinations, how we love to write, and our passion to make this world a better place. As I grow up and move out, I realize how hurtful it probably was when 13 year old me pushed him away because I thought I could do everything on my own. But boy was I wrong. I needed you more than I could even imagine. People are probably starting to tell you it's time to let go (side note they will tell you that on my wedding day too), but all you wanna do is hold on. You can let go tomorrow, for now just hug me.
Dad, when the time comes to loosen your grip, whether its when you leave me in my dorm in August, or when you walk me down the aisle, some things will never change. I'll always need you, I'll always love you, and I'll always be your daughter.
