I supposed I never stopped. Never stopped needing the constant affirmation from you. The Good Jobs, the pats on the back, the You're My Favorite, followed by a sneaky wink. Though many years have passed since childhood, there's a part of me that still craves you're approval–and not from just anyone, but from you. Through the years, you've become my best friend and I count on you for just about everything.

From late night text messages (Good night Jazzy…stop working, go to BED!), to someone to talk to while sitting in traffic, to moments when I just need to pray, to random invitations for a taco run in East Los Angeles. I count on you for so much.

And after all these years, you still give me everything a daughter could ask for. The Good Jobs, the pats on the back, the You're My Favorite, followed by a sneaky wink. There are times, still, when I do something great and I look around the room to see if you'd nod with approval. And then I take comfort knowing you would. Because that what you always do…you nod, smile, and let me know you couldn't be more proud of the person I've become.

Daddy, Happy Father's Day. Thank you for being my best friend and I love you for the extra chapters at bedtime during childhood, the kisses on the forehead, and, of course, the taco runs.