There are no words that could truly explain my appreciation for my Dad. An article with a few hundred words couldn't explain the countless times he's been there for me through every rough patch or the good times during which he's made me laugh. I never said it enough while I was at home while filled with teenage angst.I lived in a constant state of frustration because I felt that I was always being grounded, but in hindsight, it was probably for the best. Thank you.

Having moved out of the house and into the (semi) adult world, I look back and notice how much I took for granted. I never realized how much I would miss having someone to vent to when there was drama in my life or someone to cry to when I was frustrated; Both times I was always comforted because I never had to worry about judgement or ridicule. I never realized I'd be missing someone who was really a best friend in disguise who always knew what to say. I never realized all of these little things, but they have finally helped me understand the whole, "You'll appreciate this when you're older" phrase.

As I navigate college, I can't help but notice the little things you taught me about boys and life; your lessons have really saved me from some heartache and bad decisions. I'll forever appreciate you telling me exactly how guys think to save me the trouble of overthinking. Thank you for forcing me to sit through several awkward sex talks, even though I tried my hardest to plug my ears and run away.

Thank you for always grounding me and keeping me focused on school because I actually have my studies together and my head on straight. Also, much thanks is owed for teaching me to chase my alcohol with beer because sugary soda will give me a hangover; I owe you big time for that one. More importantly, thanks for listening to me vent about stupid ex-boyfriends and reminding me how much better I am than them. Thank you for reminding me to put family first; not a day goes by that I don't miss every single one of you guys.

Thank you for forcing me to be accountable and to set higher expectations for myself because no one else will. And I really can't thank you enough for whipping me into shape when I was 12, because the lord knows I needed it. Thanks for being both a mom and dad to me at times when I really needed it, and more importantly, thanks for your fashion advice.

This article is probably clichéd and a little repetitive, but I really haven't told you how grateful I am to have you in my life. Thank you for making all the mistakes for me and my siblings so we could learn from them. Thank you for all the sacrifices you've made for the family. Thank you for creating such a beautiful, diverse, crazy family that I can never stop talking about on the daily.

I really can't thank you enough for just always being there, but it was worth a try.

Love you, Dad