On March 21st, my father will celebrate his birthday. He's my hero and he's taught me many things throughout my life.

Don't be afraid.

He taught me to never be afraid of going after your dreams. He encouraged me to choose my dream school, not matter where the location was or how much it costed. He took me around the Midwest and South, touring colleges so I could find my future home. He's never stopped me for changing my major, all the multiple times I've talked about doing it. He wants me to pursue my dreams, no matter how scary.

Love your country.

My dad is a twenty year Navy veteran. He has always taught me to respect and celebrate your country. People die fighting for our freedoms everyday and honor that sacrifice.

Music can heal the soul.

One thing my dad and I have always bonded over music. He introduced me to country music at a young age, including Darius Rucker and Zac Brown Band who are still to this day a few of my favorites. He always let me choose the songs as we drove the school and even listened to by Disney songs.

He's always going to be there for me.

When I visited my colleges and was planning my future, he was there. When I got a phone call giving me my first job offer, he was there. When I got my heart broken, he was there. When I graduated high school, he was there. When I started college, he was there. When I bought my first car, he was there. Every time I call him, he answers. He's my dad and he'll always be by my side.

Thank you Daddy. Love you always.