Having a father figure is important to any child's life. Even if said figure is not the biological father. So no, my grandfather is not my actual father, and my creation was not incest. But my grandfather has been the best father a girl could ask for growing up. He is my closest friend and I will forever be grateful for him.

First, a little background on how my grandfather became my father figure. No, my father was not a dead beat parent. My father unfortunately passed away when I was very young. I don't remember him, but I just met his side of the family this past year, and if he was as kind and amazing as they are I'm positive he would have been an amazing dad. My mother had some issues, and when my grandparents took me in, that is when my grandfather really stepped up.

He and I have been the best of friends since I was a kid. I knew every single Saturday when I was little that my grandfather would take me to the park for hours and push me on the swing. As I got older, trips to the playground turned into trips to the local mall. He'd take me shopping and I'd get to try on pretty dresses and we'd pick out new clothes for school. No matter what was going on I could always count on a Saturday trip with him to make everything okay.

When I was around thirteen we started taking trips to Boston. We would go to Copley Mall and he would take me to try on expensive clothes and shoes and go out to eat. Eventually I started taking modeling and acting classes so one weekend a month we got to go on our fancy Boston trips. We would take the train in and talk and laugh for hours.

As I got older he continued to do everything that he could to keep me happy. My grandmother spends Wednesday nights with her best friends and always has. And those nights my grandfather and I have always hung out and binge watched our favorite movies and shows. I am so grateful to have him in my life every day.

I always know that if I need to vent about somebody or something bad that's happening he will always be there to listen to me. He's listened to all my complaining for 19 years and I've listened to his. He's also always helped me with my issues financially. Whether it's a small loan or just some advice on how to handle my finances, I can always count on him.

I have no idea where I would be without him in my life. I am so happy that he's going to get to be in my kids' lives and they get to meet one of the most amazing men that I've ever known. He has taught me so many lessons that I will pass on to my children. The ability to stay calm even when angry. That yelling will not fix any issues, talking things out will always work better. And most importantly, to love unconditionally and to always be there for people.