Dear Daddy,

I could start this letter out by thanking you for a plethora of things. Such as the roof over my head or the food you place on the table, but somehow when I sit back and think about how truly thankful I am to have you as my father those things barely scratch the surface.

I want to thank you for all those times you carried me on your shoulders, even if I was too big, or too heavy. For every time, you never hesitated to go outside and throw a softball with me. For every compliment you gave Momma because, from you, I've learned what it truly means to love your spouse. For your wisdom, it has taught me to trust in the Lord and your courage has shown me how to walk by faith.

Thank you for watching "Scooby Doo" and Britney Spears countless times. Thank you for our fishing trips at Papa's when I was little. Thank you for taking me to church, even if when I was little you made me wear itchy scratchy dresses that I pitched a fit about.Thank you for buying me Bath and Body Works, or stopping by Starbuck's -- even though you dislike them -- to get me a coffee. Thank you for standing up for me when I was too young to do it for myself. Thank you for teaching me to always find the joys in life.Thank you for still looking at me like I am the greatest thing in the world to you, even after all of my mistakes. I know that at times I tested your patience and caused you worry, but you never lost faith in me. You still continue to see me as this amazing woman, despite all of my flaws, and the endless potential that rests in your eyes inspires me to always be my best and try to never let you down. Words cannot express how much I appreciate you and Momma.

And last, I want to thank you for being the first man I will ever love. I would be lost in this world without you, and I am wholeheartedly convinced that God knew exactly what he was doing when he chose you to be my, and Chloe's, daddy.

Your little girl,
Shelby Leann.