Growing up, life was different for me and my brother. We went from living with a mom and a dad, to living with mom and our grandparents, to living with a mom. You know how she is, Mom would do anything and everything in her power to make sure we are all taken care of. In every aspect of life, she put us before herself and it's so much easier to see now. When I was little, I could tell she was missing having someone to love in her life, but then you came along and her mouth formed a lasting smile. At some point along this road, you two got married, and I was so lucky to not only be a part of the awesome day, but to also get the time to call you my step-father. This article is for you, and all I can say is thank you.

Thank you for making my mom happy.

For a period of my life, she wasn't happy. She loved us kids so much, but I could tell there was sadness and clouds that followed her every footsteps. Now, I get to see her smiling face and we have you to thank for that.

Thank you for helping me with all my decisions.

With deciding what to do with friends and outfits to choosing a college, you were there to help me. I will probably never admit this, but your opinion matters more to me than you think. Even away at college, I always take a second look at my outfit before I head out for the day because I know I'm representing you and our family wherever I go.

Thank you for loving me without anyone telling you to.

Since the first day I met you, you welcomed me and my brother with open arms. No one told you that you had to, but you did it because of who you are. You made sure I was always taken care of, even when there was a huge baseball game against the rival school.

Thank you for my siblings.

With the marriage between you and Mom, I got these awesome siblings (that are a pain in my rear-end) that I love so much!!! Honestly, I do even though I feel like they harass me 25/8. (This is a joke, I'm funny, remember?) I couldn't imagine life without these people and I'm so thankful I get the chance to spend the rest of my life with this family.

But mostly, thank you for all the unconditional love.

At the end of the day, no matter how good or how bad a day is, I can sit back and remember that it's all going to be okay. You entered my life with open arms and I am reminded of that every single day. In the end, I am who I am because of you and I thank you for that. I love you, Dad and I always will.

P.S. I know Mom is crying by now, and you're not...you just have something in your eye.