Dad,

Ever since I was a young girl, I always knew I would keep the title "Daddy's Girl". When I look back, I think of the times I used to put on my little dress and we would dance in the living room to whatever music we had on CD at the time. I think of when you would carry me and hold me inside your jacket on the chillier days. I think of you taking me trick-or-treating pretty much every year. I think about those times you used to try to leave for work trips, so I would place my small body over the front door and say, "Daddy don't go, don't you love us anymore?" When I think about it, I never really had to ask. I always knew you loved us, I just wanted to stall you from leaving because I didn't want my best friend to leave. Yes, I said best friend. You were my best friend then and you still are now. I may not say it a lot, but I can say it without a doubt in my mind. You were always there for me as I grew up. You picked me up from my cheer and rowing practices and came to every game, competition, and regatta I had. There was a point you were the "cheer dad" since you were one of the super involved fathers.

You were resilient through the divorce. I didn't show it often, but that was one of the toughest times in my life. You helped me through that. You played - and still play - the role of two parents combined. I can not thank you enough for all you've done for me throughout my life. You've taught me how to sing, dance, tie my shoes, and most of all, how to love. Not only did you teach me those things, but you taught me how to be strong, selfless, witty (it seems to be the family trait), and so much more. I know how much you've lost and the things you've had to sacrifice, so I just want to remind you that all the things you do never go unnoticed. I like to believe everything does happen for a reason because even though we went through some of the hardest years of our lives, we had each other through it all. If those things never happened, we wouldn't be where we are now. You talk about me all the time to friends and family, and I don't get to do that as much. I wanted to talk about you for a change and let everyone know how close to my heart I hold the relationship I have with you. When God picked you to be my dad, I got the luck of the draw. I love you, never forget it!

With love, Tiki