I'm happy to say I'm a Daddy's girl

I'm an unabashed Daddy's girl — and I don't think it's a bad thing.

In fact, I'd contend every daughter should be lucky enough to have a "dad" instead of a father. A dad who loves them unconditionally, who would do anything and be anywhere for his children, and who celebrates the successes and offers a shoulder to cry on in the tough times.

Dads are so much more special than fathers — any guy can be a father. Being a dad is something that is earned.

Dads volunteer as coaches and help out on soccer teams and cheer their child on even if they kick the ball into their own net. Fathers tend to be the ones who yell at the coaches or worse, their kids, because the call didn't go their way.

Dads spend hours helping you learn to ride a bike, patiently picking you up each time you fall and offering encouragement at every step. There's no yelling, no disparaging comments, and no "We'll do it laters" or "I'm too tireds."

Dads will wield a hairbrush and attempt ponytails or braids so their daughters can go to school looking their prettiest. Nevermind the fact he's more comfortable throwing a football or puttering around the science lab than attempting the latest hairstyle from Vogue magazine.

Dads take their kids camping and teach them the words to "Johnny Verbeck" — much to the eternal chagrin of the Moms handing out marshmallows, chocolate and graham crackers. (I only wish I could remember the words …)

Dads will slip their kids a dollar or two for a hot lunch after the Moms have said a sack lunch of peanut-butter-and-jelly sandwich, carrots and an apple is healthy, nutritious and just fine without a candy bar or potato chips.

Dads do a million and one things for their children, not for any particular reason and not because it's easier. They do it because they love their kids and just want to do something special for them.

Father's Day is coming up on Sunday, isn't it time you said "thank you" because you were lucky enough to have a Dad and not jut a father? I know I am.

Caroline Lobsinger is the managing editor of the Daily Bee.