To A father That Didn't Give Me Life But Has Been There For Me Every Step Of The Way,

I remember when Mom brought you around me the first few times. I was shy, but over the next few years you made me laugh, teased me a little, but we were always having the best time. You were just like a new friend. We played video games, you introduced me to some cool movies and let me join you and Mom on your dates.

I remember the night when you proposed to my mom. Thank you for considering to ask for my permission as well as my grandpa's. I knew that you were the one who could make my mom the happiest and I couldn't wait to include you into our everyday life. Not only did you have to win my mom's heart, but you had to win mine too. And you did.

A lot of time has gone by since you first walked into my life. Actually almost 15 years now.

I remember when you helped me convince Mom to get two four-legged additions to our family. Two more great personalities joined our little family and we have a lot of laughs thanks to them. Thank you for taking care of our fur babies on days I can't.

I remember when you were there for me when Mom couldn't be. When Mom was busy at work, you always made sure I had dinner. Even if it wasn't anything special, you made sure I ate. You were there to give me a ride when I didn't have a car. And you're there for me still every day.

For all the memories we have shared, and the lessons you've taught me along the way I must thank you.

Thank you for choosing to be a parent when you didn't have to. You have shown me that I am more than just a step-daughter to you. We've encountered sometimes when people saw us together with Mom and made a comment about you being my dad. People who don't know our relationship have also told us how you and I are so much alike. Those times always make me smile and feel proud to have a step-dad I'm so close with.

Thank you for continuing to be not just my step-dad but now my best friend. Now that I am older, we have bonded over so many new things. Thank you for opening my ears to the music you listened to when you were my age, for showing me some of the best movies, for sharing a beer with me, and for helping me figure out some of my life decisions.

Thank you for adding some great qualities to my personality. You've given me some thick skin by the innocent teasing that I took to heart when I was younger. You've taught me shorts cuts on how to get from point A to point B. You have made me a competitive person by double-dog daring me to do the craziest things. You have given me the sense of humor that I have now by showing me some of the funniest things.

Thank you for being patient with me and never overstepping your boundary as a father figure. I saw you every day, but you made sure to father me from a distance. You've watched me grow into the young lady that I am today and I couldn't be the person that I am today without you.

Thank you for being my step-dad.

I Love You,

Your Daughter