Appreciation #3

It has been a while since I have posted any appreciations. This is not because I don't have any, it's just because I spend a lot of time thinking them over.

Today's appreciation is obvious and well deserved... my dad.

I don't know how exactly to word my appreciation for my dad because I have so much. He has always kind of been like my rudder- always forcing me in the right direction by not giving in to the current of my ever changing behaviors while growing up. There are many episodes from my adolescence that flash through my mind that I wish I could take back because I know they hurt him, but in the end I think those times made us closer. So Dad, you were right... I am older now and I understand why you did what you did.

Not very many people get to grow up with a dad that everyone thinks is your older brother, or hot, or all of the above. This continues even today with people inquiring about my hot dad at Sandy's wedding. All I can say is I hope I get my dad's youthful looks.

No matter what, even if I thought at the time it was annoying, my dad was always my protector. From not allowing particular clothing, to giving me "the talk," he did what he had to do to make sure that I was safe and not making major mistakes. 

I guess the big question today is, why do I appreciate my dad? This is a long list so I will just name the most important reasons...

1. He never gave up on me, even when I was a psychotic teenager who looked like something straight out of the Exorcist at times

2. Even with little means at times, he always did what he had to do to provide for his family. He is the model for what a father is

3. He can juggle the cool exterior to everyone else and the dork to us (with all endearment intended)

4. He is a lover of all life. He will very rarely even kill a bug.

5. He showed us what love and commitment mean through the way he loves my mom. I have never seen anyone so enamored and I love it, even though I always act like it grosses me out

6. He let us find our own beliefs and never tried to push his views on us. This is something I feel is so important because it allowed each of us to be free thinkers and independent people

7. From the moment he knew I existed, he always put his family first.

8. He is the best dad

9. He is not afraid to pick his daughters up from boyfriend's houses in very embarrassing clothing

10. His laugh can make you laugh from a different part of the house 

So thank you dad. I wouldn't be who I am today without you and I am thankful that you always put your family first. It is an example I will carry on to my own family someday. I love you!