Growing up I always knew my dad was my superhero. He was strong enough to carry me on his shoulders, tough enough to bandage me up when I fell, and loving enough to always be there for me. Either your dad is your everyday superhero or the only a call away superhero. Near or far, he will always be there to pick you up when you have fallen or rescue you from any situation (while still teaching you a lesson).

Dads are different than moms in many obvious ways and not so obvious ways. If you're family is like mine, my dad has always been the calm, sensible, let us all freak out, but knows when to bring us back to reality guy. He is the one I can vent to and know that yes I am being listened too, but no I will not get advice that frankly I don't want (sorry mom). Here are some reasons why dads are our greatest superheroes.

1. Dads have the best jokes.

Even if 99.9% of the jokes are corny, semi-inappropriate, or he does not even mean to be funny, dads can make any child laugh. Even as an adult, my dad has a way to always bring a smile to my face.

2. Dads will love us no matter what we do.

A father's love is endless and even if you mess up, get in trouble, or do something bad, your dad will always love you. On some of my worst days I have always feared telling my dad because I just want to make him proud, but every time he shows his love for me and our relationship gets stronger.

3. Dads are super handy.

Most dads can build stuff and if they can't build it themselves they know someone to call. If you're moving into your freshman year dorm or even your first apartment, you can bet that your dad will have tools with him to fix anything that needs (or doesn't need) fixing.

4. Dads are outdoorsy.

One of my favorite things about my dad is that whenever I talk to him he is either getting ready to go fish or just about to tend to his garden. Dads bring out our outdoorsy side with showing us how to pitch a tent, or reel in a fish. They have shown us how to love and learn from the great outdoors.

5. Dads are our biggest cheerleaders.

Now moms play a huge cheerleading role too, but a dad has an extra special touch. I love making my dad proud and strive to always live by what he has taught me. He is there to support whatever decision I may make, even if instinctually he wants to protect me. Dads let us make our choices and support us through all of our endeavors.

Dads are the greatest. They are always willing to go on an adventure, try something new, and always willing to hug it out. My dad inspires me to always pursue my dreams even if at the time they seem a bit out of reach because as long as you have a positive attitude and perseverance you can achieve anything.

Thank you dad for loving me, laughing with me, and being my number one fan.