I am lucky to have an amazing dad, and I have recently been realizing just how fortunate I am to have him. Unfortunately, I don't always tell him all the things I want to say. Here five of the most important things I hope he knows.

1. You are appreciated.

You are the hardest working man I know, and I appreciate you and all your efforts. Our family would not be the same without all your life lessons, great stories, and the smiles you put on all of our faces. I hope you know that your years and years of long days did not and will not go unnoticed.

2. I'm proud to call you my dad.

I am so proud to be your daughter. Your laugh, your attitude, and your philosophies on life and family are so genuine and tried. I love sharing your stories with new people, and I only wish that everyone could be as lucky as I am to have someone like you as their dad.

3. I'm thankful for your honesty.

You are always someone to tell it to me straight. You don't sugarcoat much, yet you always make me feel like it's going to be okay. I appreciate your advice, and I hope you know that I take it with me wherever I go.

4. I admire your appreciation for life.

You are the person who has showed me the fragility of life. You have taught me to slow down, put down your phone, and take in the views. You show our family how to live in a moment, rather than live one moment ahead and I appreciate that.

5. I love you.

I don't say it enough, but I hope you know how much I love you. You will always be #1, Dad.