Dear Dad,
Sometimes I think about who I am as a person and I know that so much of my personality mirrors yours. I may look more like Mom, but we all know that my brain functions more like yours. Your humor, way of thinking, and stubbornness (yep) are instilled in me and I know for sure that I am uniquely your daughter.
You've taught me the importance of the daddy-daughter relationship since day one. You've never let me go to sleep without reminding me that you were always going to be here, and that there is no one better than you to protect me. Thank you for the daddy-daughter dates, and the way you were my first love. You taught me that I am worthy of being treated like a princess, no matter what, and I thank you for teaching me what love looks like and how to value myself.
Thank you for showing me right from wrong, for setting me straight when I'm too sassy to you and Mom, and for instilling in me a drive to do the best that I possibly can when it comes to education. You cheered me on at rainy, terrible, soccer games, at long talent shows, and you were there when I had my highest highs and lowest lows. You taught me how to ride a bike and then you watched me walk across the stage at graduation. To me, there is nothing more special than for you to watch me grow up and be proud of everything I accomplish.
Thank you for raising me in the church, and for teaching me that no matter what, as long as I have Jesus, everything will be okay. You were there for my baptism and my confirmation. And thank you for still supporting me in my walk with God as I grow older and learn more about myself and my faith.
You've shared with me your love of peanut butter, guitar, Star Wars movies, hockey, skiing, and of course, you've taught me how to really appreciate a well-cooked steak. (Because we both know, there is nothing like a melt-in-your-mouth piece of backstrap).
I'm not sure who I'd be if you weren't in my life. Who would tell me that my dresses are too short? Who would make me the best omelette or help fix something that I broke? Who would be there to put my skis back on when I yard sale on the hill? Who would give me big daddy hugs?
Simply put, Dad, thank you. You are my hero. Being a daddy's girl is great, but being YOUR daddy's girl is the best.
Love,
Ab
