Dear Dad,

By the time this letter is published, your birthday will most likely have passed. But I wanted to write you a little something anyways in honor of your special day. I want to thank you for everything you've done for me (which is a lot). My entire life and all the good things in it are a result of you raising me how you did. You put me through driving school, helped me replace two cars after one was totaled and the other one just wasn't safe anymore, helped me pay for college, and so much more. You never had to do those things but, you did to benefit my life and help me navigate the world. For that, I thank you wholeheartedly.

You've given me the world and more, and I appreciate it more than you'll ever know. Raising me and putting up with me as I grew up was not easy. I was a terrible baby and child, but with your guidance and understanding, I was able to mature into a great adult (if I may say so myself). I am just like you in so many ways. I have your weird humor, laid back attitude, caring personality and love of family. I'm a miniature version of you with the same heart of gold.

I am proud to say that you're my dad because I know that you are a hardworking and determined person. I know we can butt heads sometimes, but I always think to myself it's because we have the same mind. We are so alike that we have the same tendencies during an argument, like being stubborn even when it's not a big deal. Being stubborn means we care about what we believe in and I know from you that it's a good quality to have (at least for the most part).

I am grateful for how you take care of mom. When she got sick, you were by her side through everything, even through her first chemo treatment. You love mom more than anything in the world and I know it helps her everyday to get better. Your strength through that and everything tough that comes your way is admirable. I hope that when I enter the real world as an independent adult, I can channel your strength. Not to mention you're a great pet dad. April (our cat) and our dog (Napoleon) always appreciate you. They are lucky to have someone like you to take care of them. I know I definitely am. Thank you for my life so far and in the future. You've given everything to me so I could have the best life possible. I love you and have the best birthday ever!