“Dad. A son’s first hero, a daughter’s first love.”

I believe this quote sums up my family.

My dad was my brother’s hero when he was little. He built my brother a batting cage to help him get his batting average up.

My brother still holds the highest Chapman batting average.

He taught my brother how to treat a women by treating my mom that way.

With me, my dad has always showed that he loves me.

He always made sure I knew what love was between my parents. He made sure I knew how I should be treated like one day.

Growing up, my dad was always out of town working. He was always trying to make money to provide for all I could need and want.

But he has also always made sure to be at every school event and dance event I participated in.

Because my dad was out of town so often, I relied on my brother for that father figure a good bit.

Having a age gap of 13 years with my brother meant that we never really grew up together. When a little girl just wanted her dad, my brother stepped in.

I hold onto all the things my brother has done and taught me as I was growing up, but I wish I had my dad there more.

I enjoy the moments spent with him even when we are just arguing over views we see differently.

My dad is a real hero to me and my brother.

He has been through some crazy obstacles but came out of all them stronger. When he turned 18, he had to go sign up for the draft.

Once he got his letter in the mail saying he was going to be drafted into the war, his life changed completely.

He rode in helicopters that were shot down; he rode in helicopters when they shot at the Vietnamese.

Through all that, he became stronger.

And because of his strength, I am a strong, independent girl today.