Dear Dad,

You and I have had a special bond since the day I was born. You were the first to hold me, and refused to let anyone else do so (which made Grandma upset.) There are so many pictures of us taking naps together when I was a baby, and ones of us laughing when I was a toddler. You would take me to the zoo and pull me around in the little red wagon we had, and take me to the pond to feed bread to the ducks. Throughout the years, you’ve always been there for me and have always made sure I was loved and taken care of. To this day, we still have so many things we do together, just the two of us. Taking me to the gun show, going to see The Book of Mormon musical with me, getting fireworks for my Fourth of July birthday, taking me with you when you get your hair cut so we can have lunch after. All of it is so special, and I want you to know that I love and appreciate every minute of it.

You’ve blessed me with your sense of humor, your taste in music, and your intelligence and with, all of which have brought me so far in life. You’ve taught me hard life lessons while still helping me to pick myself back up again. Even when you’ve been critical, it has always been in a positive way because you know how much I’m capable of; you see the potential in me even when I don’t. Especially when I don’t. As I’ve grown up and tried to discover who I am you have always stood by my side to offer advice, but never to steer me in any particular direction.

I am so incredibly lucky to have a father like you, and I know that. No matter how hard things are or have been, you have unwavered in your support and care, and you’ve been both a dad and a best friend; you’re my Best Pal. And as the Holiday Season continues and your birthday comes up, I want to tell you that I love you, and I am so thankful for everything you’ve done for me. Thank you for being you, and for believing in me.

With love,

Your Little Girl