Dad, you've always been the strong silent type to me and I know we don't share a lot of our emotions between one another, because let's face it, that's kind of become mom's job.
However, I wanted to take the time now to write down everything I've always thought about you and just how much you really mean to me. Even though I don't always express it, you're the best dad a girl could ask for, and that's not an exaggeration. It may always seem like I can't wait to get away from you and just can't wait to grow up, but in reality, I just really wanted to make you proud.
This is something I've never told you before, but Dad, you were the man that I first fell in love with. I think it was a feeling from when I was first born. I saw the world for the first time and the first things I feel like I saw were the doctors and you two, but I must have seen you first because I've been in love ever since. You're the man that has always been there and who has never left. I know not everyone can say the same, but that will never change my feelings for you.
You were there for all my firsts: when I first started walking, my first word, and when I left home for the first time. When I experienced heartbreak, you didn't seem to understand why. Not "why is she sad", but "why and how could anyone ever hurt my little girl?" It's that kind of thinking and understanding that made me love you more. I know that growing up, it didn't always seem like I was always there or that I appreciated what you did. I know that I was rarely home with all the things I did during the day, and when I was home all I wanted to do was relax. I just need you to know that I always appreciated the time we did get to spend together.
Whether it was sitting in the living room eating our dinner off TV trays or watching your favorite Police show, I loved every moment we spent together. You have been my biggest fan ever since I was born. You were there at every event, every school function, and every new beginning. You were always so proud of me, whether it was getting straight A's or waking up before noon, you always shared with the world how great you thought I was. I'm grown up and away at college now, but just know that I still think about the times we've spent together every day and there isn't a day that goes by that I don't miss you.
It's been hard being away from you and I know it's going to get even harder. I know there were days where I said I couldn't wait to get away or that I wanted to be anywhere but with you, but that's only because I was hurting and didn't realize in that moment the greatness that I had in my life. We butt heads a lot, but I like to think that's because we're both so alike and are too stubborn to see the error of our ways. I know I've said things in the past towards you that I'm not proud of, but hopefully, now you know that I never meant any of it, and vice versa for you.
Dad, I just want you to know that no matter what man I date or even end up marrying, you will still always be my number one guy. You'll always be the one at the top of my list and you'll always be the one I run to when I'm hurting because I know you'll always be there with arms wide open, waiting to love me unconditionally. Just remember that, no matter what, I'll always be your little girl. So even though I don't always say it, I'm going to say it now so that it's in writing forever: I love you Dad.