Reddit poster says recent 'struggles' prompted Dad to say 'love you' more — it 'means so much'

I was raised that when it was bedtime, the kids always gave mom and dad a hug and kiss on the cheek. Even if we were not in a good mood, it was required. My dad expected this, because he said his dad did not hug or kiss him when he was little, or tell them that he loved them, so he didn't want his kids to have the same experience.
It's common place, in our family, that when you are leaving the house, or going to bed, the phrase, "I love you" just happens.
My daughter was just telling me yesterday, that her kids were at the dentist office a while back, 5yr and 7yr olds girls, and as they were leaving, they were talking with the office ladies and technicians and as they said goodbye, they included, "Love you, see you later." The dentist staff thought it was cute.