Dear Dad,

Not everyone has a father; in fact, those who do have a father figure in their lives are very blessed and lucky. You don’t always get the credit you deserve. A dad is a father, a mentor, a friend, a support system, a motivator, a teacher.

First off, I would like to thank you. Thank you for everything that you have ever done for me. Thank you for the sacrifices you have made to make sure that I could have everything that I ever wanted and needed. Thank you for all of the thousands of hours you have spent working and traveling to make sure that I could have a roof over my head and food on the table. Thank you for inspiring me to work hard in school. Thank you for always encouraging me to chase after my dreams. Thank you for always telling me that I could do anything that I set my mind to. Thank you for always having my best interest in mind. Thank you for always being my number one fan and coming to all of the softball games, recitals, cheerleading events, track meets, and band concerts that you could make it to. Thank you for loving me even though I’ve made some mistakes. I know that I don’t thank you for all that you’ve done for me as much as I should.

You taught me a lot throughout the last nineteen years of my life. You taught me how to fish and shoot a gun. You taught me about baseball and inspired my love of softball. And, even though I’m a big girlie-girl who loves shopping and makeup, I’ll never pass up a chance to go fishing with you or to go to a Pirates game. But, most importantly, you taught me how to love. God's love shines through you. You have taught me the importance of working and living life to the fullest. You have taught me that I deserve the best and to never settle for less. Your influence will forever be in my heart and on my mind. Thank you for setting such a great example for me and my brother.

Daddy, you truly are the best father a girl could ever ask for. I could never thank you enough for all you’ve done for me. I could never repay you for all the sacrifices you’ve made. Thank you for always being there for me and wanting to know what was going on in my life. You always supported me through all of my adventures growing up, and while it may be hard to see you little girl grow up, I want you to know that I will always be your little girl. I promise to always make you proud. I promise to always remember the lessons you have taught me and put them to use in my everyday life. I promise to never forget the memories I have with you, like going to our fishing spot in Farmington. I want you to know that I will forever treasure each and every moment we have together. Thank you for giving me such an amazing and blessed childhood. I’ll never forget our vacations, traveling with you on jobs before I started school, going fishing at our spot, and so many more. You made family a priority, and that’s such a blessing to have a father who put his family first. I know it wasn't always easy, but I appreciate all you have done for me and will continue to do for me throughout my life.

You were the very first man to be in my life. You were the very first man that I ever loved. I’m beyond blessed and so proud to have you as my dad. I love you.

Forever,

Your Little Girl.