Growing up, my dad was always like my giant friend. Not like he was huge or anything, just bigger and taller than me. He would carry me on his shoulders so I could see, or pick me up when I was scared of Chucky Cheese. I knew I could always count on him, and he continues to prove that to me. He would always do silly things with me and loved to make me laugh till my belly hurt. Whether it be running around the house pranking my siblings, or sneaking up on my mom. We always loved to scare them, just to see their hilarious reactions. I also love how he always likes to video Christmas morning, even to this day. He even made us wait to come out of our rooms, until he had the camera set up. He just constantly keeps traditional things in our family. He does everything in his power to make holidays special and magical. I always loved that about him, and maybe it is the reason I like to be extra for everything.

One thing I have never told my dad is that he is my hero. He is my hero for many reasons. One reason is that he cares so much just to make holidays so special. Another reason is that every summer, no matter our schedule, he would always plan a family trip. We would go to the beach, Colorado, Texas, Disney World or wherever our car would take us. He loves to go to famous landmarks and historical places. Just so we would get the right amount of fun and and education. He always reminds me of the classic dad; the dad that cracks corny jokes, wears shorts wayyy pass their knees, and chunky white tennis shoes. He is so goofy you can't help but love him. Lastly, he is my hero because he is always there when I need a shoulder to cry on or just simply talk about life.

We were always so close. Then I hit my teenage years, and my dad and I grew a part. Not terrible, but we didn't crack jokes or prank people as much. I became consumed with hanging out with my friends, makeup and spending the night every night. I didn't realize how much I missed hanging out with my giant friend. Until senior year came, and I knew that I was about to leave him. So, I started hanging out with him again and tried to enjoy as much time with him as possible. One day I was at my "prom" and it was time for the dad/daughter and mother/son dance. I knew my dad would be emotional. How could he not? We were dancing back and forth and I kept reminding him how I was about to leave for college. Telling him how his baby girl is about to be 2 and a half hours away. Then, he told me how proud he was of me and all my accomplishments. All of a sudden tears rushed down the face. Only, the face wasn't his, it was mine. Time just flew by so fast and I couldn't catch up.

The day came when I had to move into my dorm. I wasn't sad, and I mean that. We carried all my stuff to the dorm and I was settled in. I said my goodbyes to my family and they left. My dad stayed for a little longer just to make sure I was okay. I thought I was, but then he said goodbye and I realized that this is real life. I am about to live 150 miles from my parents and family. So I instantly started to cry. He was so worried and confused, because I always acted like I was ready to get away from everyone and be on my own. Until, it actually happened and I realized how much I would miss him. I am beginning to learn how to be away from everyone, but it isn't fun. I miss them every single day. When I go home, the first thing I am going to do is run straight up to my giant friend and give him a giant hug. So thank you dad for teaching me how to be independent but still trusting my family to help me through it all. Thank you for always calling to check up on me, even if it is about 3 times a day. Thank you for always believing in me and helping me to understand God's plan for me. Thank you for being you.

love, your little girl