Fathers' Day has come and gone, but dads have not. This past Sunday, when the very special men in our lives were celebrated and honored, I looked at my own dad and realized how much I have learned from him and how much I have to thank him for.

Dad,

Thank you, thank you for everything. Thank you for the hours spent being patient with me, I know that that is not always easy, but somehow you have always managed to find a way. Especially as my coach. Thanks for giving up every Tuesday night, Thursday night, and Saturday morning for all of those years, even though I never did become the home run hitter you tried so hard to teach me to become. You even found patience during the time I thought I had musical ability, when you endured hours of screeching from my violin.

Thank you for my sense of humor. Regardless of how convoluted it may be, or sarcastic you have made me, I am so grateful that you have always had a way to lighten any situation. You have taught me not to take offense to things, but rather to laugh it off, and to always find a silver lining.

Thanks for toughening me up, but keeping me your little girl. Even though I will never admit this out loud, thanks for calling me out when I didn't "take it like a man." But, I also really appreciate that you never make me unclog the toilets...being your princess does have its perks.

Thank you for teaching me never to take shortcuts. You knew I could do the best and would not let me settle for anything less. After telling me that if I was going to do anything in life, you expected me to commit to it and do it to my best ability; I have always tried to do that, and kept you in my mind.

Thanks for teaching me your work ethic. Year after year I have seen you seek out the best for our family, no matter what kind of commute, hours, or horrible bosses that included. You consistently think of fairness to others, but have also showed me that sometimes you do need to think of yourself. Thanks to you, *and your tournament staff*, for showing me that initiative goes a long way.

Thanks for teaching me that what happens happens, but your reaction to it is what matters. You haven't always been dealt the best cards in life, but I've never once heard you complain, or seek pity. Instead, you handle the situations, don't avoid them, and yet still always overcome them.

Most importantly, Dad, thanks for always being there. And I mean always. Never once in my life have I questioned a promise you've made me (so yes, I'm still expecting that pony & Barbie-style beach house) which speaks volume to the person you are. I have always been confident that if I needed someone, regardless of the severity, you would be one person absolutely there.

Thank you, Dad. I guess you're cool sometimes.