Dear Daddy,

I know that I don't always act like it, but you are my hero. You were my first love, my best friend, and the one man who always had my back. When a boy broke my heart, you were there to pick up the pieces and threaten to shoot with a shotgun we both know you don't have. I know we argue and I know we have our differences as I grew up and expanded my horizons. I know there were boys you didn't like, and I knew there were days when I came home late and you were up worrying about when I was coming home. And it goes both ways. You knew there were days I needed to be alone and didn't wanna talk to anyone, but you still knocked on my door every hour making sure I wasn't crying alone. And when you did find me crying, you came in and tried making jokes through our own tears.

I remember when I was little, and you told me I couldn't date until I was forty, when in reality that started when I was 13. And you always gave my dates strong handshakes letting them know this was your little girl and if they messed with me, you'd mess back. When I wanted to stay up a few extra hours, I'd flash you my puppy dog eyes, (and still do some time) and you'd be like putty in my hands. And just as I did, when you want to go out and have a daddy/daughter date, you'll guilt trip me until I say yes, even though I always wonder why I didn't say yes in the first place.

Now Daddy, I met a good man and I love him very much. He has a very special place in my heart, and he treats me like you always wanted someone to treat me. I know you don't want anyone to take me away from you, but eventually I would even leave by myself if I had to. But you are my dad, and you are the best man in my life. So now I need you to let me grow up and be happy with my decisions.

I love you Daddy. I'll always be your little girl.