Daddy,

I'm sorry that we live in a culture where the name I have lovingly called you my whole life is responded to with a disgusted look. It's sick and wrong that so many people hear my name for you and automatically assume the worst. You always called me "princess," and even that has a negative connotation these days. It makes me mad how something so sweet and innocent as "daddy" is perceived so poorly.

When I was a little girl, you tucked me in at night and woke me up with a silly song. When I was a young teenager, you showed me how to mow a lawn, then took me out for Bahama Bucks. When I turned sixteen, you taught me how to parallel park and celebrated with me when I earned my license. As I entered college, you reminded me that I am going to do amazing things, then hugged me before you drove away from my new home. My entire life, you have shown me exactly what I need to look for in a husband and father of my future children.

Daddy, you were the first man in my life. You were the first man to tell me I was beautiful, you were the first man to hold my hand as I spun in a twirly dress. I will never love another man the way I love you-- even my husband, I will love differently than I love you. He will love me for the woman I've become, but you loved me as I went through the growing pains of becoming that woman.

Even as I went through the horribly awkward stages of my pre-teen years, you never failed to see what I would grow up to be: strong, independent, smart, beautiful-- these are all traits that I now have because you told me so.

I can't help but feel terribly sorry for girls who had to grow up without their daddy cheering them on. You drew boundaries for me when I needed you to, and you pushed me to fly, even when I didn't believe in myself. More often then not, you know what I want more than I do. It might take me a while to realize it, but I always end up coming to the same conclusion you're already at.

It's funny how I see you differently now that I'm older. As I was growing up, I could've sworn you were out to get me. Making my curfew 11 pm? Ugh, I couldn't believe that I had to come home "so early." Now I know you were just keeping me safe. There are creepers out there, plus nothing good happens after midnight-- you taught me that too.

I hope you're proud of the woman I've become, as well as the woman I'm growing up to be. I couldn't have gotten here without you cheering me on every step of the way, suggesting better pathways, and telling me when I was veering off the road. Because of you, I know that I always have my favorite superhero in my corner, and I know that I will always be loved.

I love you,

Your little girl