One time someone told me, "You are your father's daughter." I take that as a tremendous compliment, because my dad is one of the best people I know. I am a lot of things because of my dad. As I've grown up, he has given me an outstanding example of the kind of person I want to be. Everything my dad has taught me has come from the kind of person he is -- caring, loyal and hardworking.

Whether he knows it or not, he is one of my biggest role models and someone I've looked up to for his amazing character for as long as I can remember. He is hands down the best guy I know and I could not be more blessed to have a dad like him.

He has always pushed me to be the best that I could be at whatever I did. He helps me figure out solutions to problems when I need an extra push, but he also motivates me to learn things on my own. No matter the outcome, he always has my back. For every high, he has a congratulations and an enormous hug waiting for me. For every low, he has something encouraging to say to pick me up and of course an enormous hug waiting for me. I always know he is someone I can count on no matter what happens. The kind of positivity he's given me is something I've learned to do with others, because I know how much it's meant to me.

He's provided me with constant support in everything I've ever done. Growing up, he always cheered the loudest at any event, performance, competition or game, and he still does today. He's my number one fan and my biggest cheerleader. Knowing he is always going to be there gives me the best feeling, because I knew that even if things I'm interested in might be a little too girly for him or not up his alley, he loves to see me enjoying the things I love. His constant support through the activities and projects I am passionate about makes me want to do better. I've always wanted to be just as supportive as he is so I can help motivate someone to achieve their own goals like he's done for me.

He cares so much for those he loves and he's the kind of guy that will drop everything for a friend in need. He realizes the importance of having good people to go through life with, because those are the kinds of things that you can't find just anywhere. He's a great son to my grandma, an caring and supportive husband to my mom, and an amazing dad to my sister and I. He puts family first, something I have always admired.

So dad, I hope you know that you have someone who looks up to you. Thank you for being you.