To The Man Who Loved Me First,

I don't remember the first time I saw you, but you tell me often you'll never forget first meeting me. Like many little girls, I loved my fairy tales, and you and mom were my king and queen. You showed me how a queen should be treated by the way you loved mom- and you told me to expect nothing less.

You were the king of our fairy tale, but to me, you were so much more. Sometimes you were the joker- staying up late at night telling me funny stories of a boy, named Pickle Boy, and his crazy adventures. Some nights I swear you laid with me for hours until our stomachs were sore from laughing so hard. Other times, you were my shofar- carting me from school to ballet class, but still, you never complained.

All these hats you wore, Dad, but the one you portrayed the best was my knight. There was no safer place than your arms. When I rode on top of your shoulders, I could have taken on any giant. Whether it was a scratched knee or a broken heart, one of your hugs always managed to fix everything. I remember as vividly as it was yesterday, falling asleep on your chest- listening to your heartbeat. There was never a sound more comforting than that. With you, I felt peace.

While little girls grow up, and fairy tales become nothing more than books on a shelf- you never ceased to run our kingdom. Although there are three princesses in the castle now, you provide as much love and protection as ever before. So I want to thank you, Dad, for being my king, my protector, and my hero.

Being the only man in the house comes with its challenges, I know that, but you make it seem effortless. You have set such a beautiful example of what a husband and father should be like. Growing up, even to this day, you provide the perfect balance of protection and freedom- where I know I can do things on my own, but if I fail I can always run to you.

Dad, I want to thank you for never making me feel inadequate or incapable just because I'm a girl. Both you and mom have made me the strong, independent woman I am today- and for that, I am extremely grateful.

Look how far we've come, Dad! In 20 years our relationship has grown and changed so much. I am no longer that freckleface, chubby-cheeked little girl anymore (well maybe the cheeks are still there). I may not need you to tie my shoes or drive me to school, but there is not a day that goes by that I don't long to hear your heartbeat. I may not fall down and scrape my knee (often) but coming back to the dorm after a rough day, there is nothing I need more than one of your bear hugs.

Dad, as the years rush past us it is only obvious to consider the possibility that some day in the next 10 years, I could become my own queen with a king and kingdom of my own, but know that I will always come back. And although you might not be the only man who loves me now, a place in my heart will always be yours as the man who loved me first.

This article is inspired by and written for my hero and father Patrick Patterson. Thank you for everything you have done for me Dad- I hope some day to marry a man as amazing as you. I love you with all my heart (happy early birthday!) I'll see you soon.

-Love,

Your Little Girl.