Dear Daddy,

I know I always used the “I can’t wait to go to college line” at least three times a week every day during my last two years of high school, but it always seemed so far off. I never thought of the day where I would come home to an empty dorm room, without you there asking how school was or just how I was in general. I never imagined a day would go by without our constant teasing and bickering. I even took watching hockey every night together for granted. I know I don’t tell you nearly enough, but I love you and I am so blessed to have such a great role model in my life, so thank you.

Thank you for teaching me that nothing worth having ever comes easy. You have taught me to give 110 percent of everything I have into everything I do, no matter what.

Thank you for teaching me how to throw a football, playing hours of catch with me, and sitting through hundreds of dance competitions and recitals.

Thank you for always seeing the best in me. Even when I’m at my lowest, you always remind me how strong beautiful, brave, and capable I am.

Thank you for all the extra large, comfy t-shirts. I know this one may have been on my own terms but having a piece of you with me at school gives me that little piece of home I need.

Thank you for letting me be one of the boys. It’s no secret that I’m as girly as it gets, but my favorite memories to this day have been playing catch with you, arm wrestling, and going to all of your hockey games.

Thank you for showing me what unconditional love is. You have always been there for me no matter what -- whether I was upset about school, boys, or friends you have never once said “I told you so,” even though it was probably deserved. You have always taught me how to handle my failures with grace and to learn from my mistakes.

Thank you for continuing to let me be your little girl. No matter how old I get, I will always be a daddy’s girl and hold that title proudly.

There’s something special about a daddy-daughter relationship. I am so proud to be your daughter and every chance I get I brag to my friends at school how my dad is my "best friend" and I admire and look up to you in every way possible. Being your daughter has made me the luckiest girl in the world. All I want more than anything is to make you proud of me. You (and mom) are the biggest influence in my life and I am so thankful and blessed to have such an amazing role model to look up to.

Xoxo,

Your Little Girl