Dear Dad,

I know I don’t say “thank you” nearly enough to convey how truly thankful I am for you. Trust me, everything you do does not go unnoticed, nor is it unappreciated. I'm thankful for so many things, but here are just a few:

Thank you for everything you do for our family. You’ve worked so hard to provide everything you can for our family. You go above and beyond to put our needs and wants before your own. I cannot thank you enough for that.

Thank you for exposing me to some of the greatest music. REO Speedwagon, Tesla, Poison, ACDC, Aerosmith, Meatloaf, Journey, Goo Goo Dolls, etc. forever remind me of you. I may have the most eclectic taste in music, but it’s all thanks to you. Some of my favorite memories we share are jamming out to these bands in the car.

Thank you for loving Mom as much as you do. Your unequivocal love and support is truly amazing. I know you have a hard time expressing your feelings, but your love for Mom is simply undeniable and inspiring. I hope I can find a man one day who loves me half as much as you love Mom.

Thank you for loving me. I know I’m a huge pain in the ass, so thank you for putting up with me. Everyone knows Mom is my best friend, but you’re also one of my best friends. We may not talk as much as Mom and I talk, but I enjoy every one of our conversations just as much.

Thank you for being there for me. Whether I’m sick, in a bad mood, or just need a friend, I can always count on you to be there and cheer me up. You’ve made it to almost every major and minor event in my life—cheerleading competitions, dance showcases, soccer games, track meets, graduations, etc. Thank you for making me feel important just by showing up.

Thanks for being you. I’m glad I have someone like you to look up to. Thanks for passing down your sense of humor, your determination, your kindness, your humbleness, and your strength.

Thank you for being one of my biggest fans. I wouldn’t be where I am today without your love and support. I’m pursuing my dreams and working hard to make you and Mom proud, all thanks to everything you’ve ever done for me.

Thank you for being the best dad in the world. I’m sure it’s incredibly hard sometimes, but you pull it off with incredible ease and dignity that is simply unmatched. I’m so unbelievably grateful for you, and I may never be able to fully thank you for all of the ways you’ve shaped me into who I am today. I can’t put it into words how much I love you and how lucky I am to have you as my dad.

I love you.