This one is for you, daddy.

Some of my favorite pictures include ones from before I was 5 years old. Looking back, I have always felt that pictures of us together show exactly who you are as a father without needing to explain why. I wanted to put out some of my favorite pictures — for you, and for us as a family.

1.) You styling my hair.

To others, this may look like any old dad doing his fatherly duties by putting his daughter's hair into a ponytail. To me, this speaks for how throughout my 22 years of living, you've never failed to swoop in and help me with things I couldn't do myself. Whether it be helping me with car troubles, work related issues, or moving stuff around my room or the house, you were always there with a helping hand.

2.) You picking us up all at once.

This is perhaps one of my favorite pictures of all time. This is yet another metaphor for the strong father you have been throughout our lives. You picked us up when we were small children and never refused to carry us on your back. And now, even though we're too big to be picked up physically, you're still here picking us up in any way you can — emotionally, spiritually, and mentally.

3.) Sitting on your shoulders.

My favorite thing to do as a kid was "go up-a." You loved to put me on your shoulders and carry me around, and to this day, I think you still would if you wouldn't break your neck in the process. The way I'm holding your face in this picture shows me that you've always made me feel secure in my life, despite everything we have been through, together and alone. I know that no matter what, you'll always carry me on your shoulders and in your loving heart.

Thank you, daddy, for being my best friend and always putting your family first. Words could never describe what you mean to me and how much love you have to give, but maybe pictures will always do a better job.