Dear Dad,

I've never been the best at Father's Day gifts, and I apologize for all the years of tagging along with whatever mom got you. This year though I'd like to say thanks in the best way I know how.

From the very beginning I was a daddy's girl. There was just nothing better than watching a Yankees game with you, spending a movie night on the pull-out couch, or listening to every Beatles CD on your old stereos. Ever since I can remember, you have been the one I look up to for everything. Looking back on these past 20 years, there are so many things I want to thank you for, but I only have 500 words so I'll get to the point.

First, I'd like to thank you for teaching me the importance of hard-work. From a young age, you instilled in me that school always comes first, as well as the importance of getting a college education. Thank you for teaching me that nothing good comes easy and that I should never put a half-effort into anything. Thank you for always being an example of what hard work is, for it has taught me to never give up even when things get tough.

Secondly, I'd like to thank you for teaching me how to be appreciative and respectful of the things I have and the people I meet. Thank you for always making me work for the things I want, because I have now learned what it means to truly appreciate and respect the things I have.

Thirdly, I want to thank you for always being my biggest fan. Thank you for the many years of coaching me on and off the softball field and basketball court. Although we butted heads many, many times, I never could've been the player I was without your constant help and support.

Finally, I want to thank you for teaching me to never take things for granted. From that moment years ago when I thought I was going to lose you to cancer, I vowed to appreciate those in my life more because tomorrow is truly never guaranteed. Thank you for always staying positive and lifting my head up when I feel like I can only look down.

Then there are the random thank you's that are way too many to count, like thank you for introducing me to Massey's Pizza. Thank you for never judging me for how many bowls of cereal I eat. Thanks for always keeping our ice cream stash stocked. Thank you for giving me my love of Christmas and agreeing to put up the tree way before Thanksgiving. Thank you for always letting me know when I've used too much water in the shower. Thank you for attempting to watch the Lord of the Rings trilogy in one night (we definitely overestimated our ability to stay awake on that one.) Thank you for never telling me I can't do something. Finally, thank you for all of the opportunities you have given me, I wouldn't be the person I am today without you and Mom.

Thank you for being my dad, there's no person I'd rather have to look up to. There are so many thank you's I didn't have room to write, so I'll just sum it up and say thank you for everything. I love you.

Your Daughter,

Kristine