Growing up, I was too young to play with my sisters, so I ended up with my brothers all the time. My dad and I used to fight all the time because he wanted me to be his little girl and I wanted to play with the boys. It was a definite struggle trying to be who I wanted to be and my dad not wanting to let go and let me grow up. He was always very tough and strict on me. At the time, I thought he was just the most un-cool dad ever. I never got to have slumber parties like the other kids at school or go to the movies with my friends. He was also raising us as a single parent. I look back and I see how much he struggled to ensure we got everything we needed and wanted while sacrificing his own wants and needs. As a kid, I never really saw this or appreciated what he did for us because I was so worried about getting the new N64 game.

As an adult now, I am so thankful for how strict and tough he was on me. I wonder still how he was able to manage a full time job and 3 kids by himself and never missing a beat. I never really saw the other side of the road until I was there. I know now if my dad had been more laid back and not try to tame a part of my free spirit I wouldn't have had the strength or courage to accomplish many of my goals. He showed me the true meaning of tough love and for that it's tough not to love him. I have nothing but exceptional gratitude, love and appreciation for the man I call my dad. Without his never ending and never wavering love and shoulder to cry on, I would have never made it to this place in my life.

I know I will never full be able to repay him for all his sacrifices, but each day I strive a little harder to accomplish my goals and dreams because I don't want his sacrifices to have been in vain. To my Dad, with all my heart, thank you. I could not have asked for a better dad than you.