Last Saturday our day was to be filled with non-stop sports. While having lunch, waiting for the next game to begin, I joyfully said, “This is the best day! Watching both children do what they love!” Moments later my phone rang. We dropped everything and raced to the hospital. My Superhero needed us. What transpired were the most difficult 8 hours of our lives.
While praying over him, our rock was welcomed home to heaven. My father was the best of the best. It is not lost on us how truly fortunate we were to have such a fantastic role model in our lives. His support for all we did throughout our lives was unmatched. His love and devotion to family were ever-present. Dad’s smile was warm and genuine. When he spoke to you, he was whole-heartedly interested. He cared. His unconditional love for my mom was something straight out of the story books.
My father was one of the most intelligent people I’ve ever known. His depth of knowledge in every subject was endless. Who will I call when I need to know the answer? Who will tell me how something works or the best way to build something?
meeting our son
No one was more proud of this little blog of mine than my dad. At age 79, while taking care of my mom full-time, he still read my blog every day. When I would go over to his house he would exclaim, “Gosh! Can’t wait to see the coffee table! It reminds me of the one we had when you kids were little. We used to love playing games on that!” I will miss those comments. I will miss his comments on Instagram questioning my love for distressed jeans! Moreover, his comments of pride about his daughters and grandchildren. We will all miss those comments.
so proud of his family
I’ve struggled so much with whether to come back to the blog or not. But my dad marveled at the idea of me finding a passion and career that incorporated my love for writing, sharing, photography, style and design. He would tell anyone he could about it. So much of what I do comes from my parents, especially my dad. Despite all of his challenges over the last few years, he was still hanging gallery walls, tinkering in the garage, and making things look beautiful for my mom. Most recently he put up their Easter tree for her.
I am craving order and a sense of productivity. Yesterday I did over nine loads of laundry just to keep my mind occupied and my hands engaged. This blog will be a form of a therapy for me. It was when my brother passed away and it will be now. So I ask for your patience and grace as I find my way back to doing what I love.
More than anything, I thank you. The outpouring of love and support has been overwhelming. A true testament to the power couple, Tom and Linda. I am always one to search for the lessons that eventually resurrect from the pain. My children are seeing that good begets good. Everyone loved my parents. Everyone. Because of that, people want to help. People want to show their love. I’ve even had staff members at a restaurants they frequented show up on my doorstep crying. This incredible man made a mark and it won’t soon be forgotten.
My dad deserves his rest. No one worked harder. And today he can celebrate my brother’s birthday in heaven. Father and son reunited at last. I am sure many of you are wondering about my precious mom. While her story is still unfolding please know that she is safe, happy and smiling. We are doing everything in our power to be sure her days are filled with as much joy as possible. Alzheimer’s is shielding her from the grief and we will honor my dad by taking wonderful care of her. Sweet sweet mama. Our journey continues.
I’m so sorry for your loss. I was worried something had happened when you were absent from the blog for so long. I will pray for peace and comfort for your family.
What a beautiful tribute to your father and a wonderful life lived! Prayers and healing thoughts for you and your family, especially your children. I am sure they are so very sad to lose a special grandpa.
Oh I am so so sorry for the loss of your father, Courtney…how heartbreaking. Lots of love to and prayers for you and your family. I immediately saw the family resemblance in your first photo, so sweet. However much or little you write in these coming days, I’ll be here and appreciative.
What a lovely tribute to your father. He sounds like a wonderful man. So very very sorry for your loss. So glad that you will continue with your blog. Im sure your father is very proud of you.
I’m so sorry for your loss. You’ve written so beautifully about your father. Wishing you all grace and strength you travel through this difficult time together.
I am so very sorry for the loss of your dear father. It has always been evident in your posts that you cherished him! Your tribute to your father is simply beautiful. Last Monday when I didn’t see your usual post I worried a little bit and thought perhaps your mom wasn’t doing well and then as the week went on I had hoped you were just enjoying a happy Spring Break with your kiddos. Perhaps it seems strange for someone who has never met you to worry about you, but I have cherished your posts for quite some time now and I am heartbroken for your loss and for your family during this devastating time. May God bring you and your family strength and peace. God is strongest when we are at our weakest. May you find comfort in knowing MANY people are praying for you and sending you loving thoughts. Take your time and come back when YOU are ready. Hugs to you from Texas!
What a beautiful tribute to your dad. He sounds wonderful! My sincere condolences to you and your family. Thinking of you all as you navigate this new path. God will be faithful to guide you. You are so loved. Take care xo
Courtney, I’m so sorry for the loss of this incredible man, Dad, and role model. Your post touched my heart. Will be praying for your family this week ❤️ He’s in heaven safe and reunited with his baby boy. Much love to you guys right now. It’s always hardest to be left behind, but what a legacy he’s left in you and your siblings.
sending you strength for this difficult road ahead. how blessed you are to have had such time with both of your parents.
b
I cry as I read this, for you… not knowing you or your family, it appears that you are blanketed in abounding love. Life is still beautiful, it just takes a moment to steady yourself after such a blow… hang in there and know that so many are praying for you.
Prayers for your family. I cannot imagine what you must be going through. Hope that you can continue to focus on all the good times you had with him!
Lisa
I have always been touched by your beautiful love for your parents. My heart just broke to hear about the passing of your dad. But it is so evident to me you carry so many of the qualities you admired and loved in your dad. His goodness will continue on in you and your children because he taught it to you. All my love at this difficult time, for you, your family and your sweet mom.
Courtney, as I sit here in tears and heartache for what you are going through, I need to confirm what a wonderful man Tom was. Just as you described, he always present in any conversation and genuinely interested in what you had to say. You felt warm and comfortable in his presence.
He was much like my father in so many ways. Ryan has wonderful examples to live up to.
Love,
The other grandma
I am so sorry for your loss. Your words pay a wonderful tribute to what sounds like a phenomenal person.
May you continue to be surrounded by love and prayers. When it seems so overwhelming, just picture your dad wrapping his arms around your brother, holding him tight!
I’m so sorry to hear of the loss of your dad. I have a superhero dad, also, and he is battling dementia and bladder cancer with my mom by his side as I write…it will not be long until he in in his real home in heaven. Although it is not easy to picture life without him, the blessings of his 85+ years will live on until we see him again. Blessings to you and your family.
Courtney – my deepest sympathy to you and your family during this very difficult time. Your dad was clearly an amazing person who touched many. What a lovely tribute you wrote here. I am so very sorry to hear of your loss.
Courtney, what a beautiful tribute to your dad and your family! The bond you shared is one that will fill your heart with warm memories and help get you through this tough time. Sending my love to you!!
I am so sorry! Praying circles around your family now and in the days/weeks/months to come!
What a beautiful tribute to a man who was loved so much, and who clearly loved you tremendously too.
Courtney and family – I am so sorry for your loss. As always, your beautiful, thoughtful, and sincere writing makes me feel as if I knew your Dad. Your love shines through, and you will make it through this with grace and insight that few people can verbalize. I send my thoughts to you and your family.
I am so sorry for your loss. What an incredible tribute to an incredible man! His legacy will live on in all of the people he loved so dearly. I am sending prayers of strength and peace for you and your sweet family.
I’m so sorry for your loss. What a blessing to have had such a wonderful father. Wishing you peace and strength in this difficult time.
This is heartbreaking! Prayers for peace and comfort for you and your family as you navigate your new world without your super hero next to you but know he is watching out for you and your family every minute. Your memories will forever be ingrained of a beautiful soul that has given you love and happiness forever.
I am so sorry for you loss! This is so beautifully written. Prayers for you and your family to guide you through this difficult time.
Oh my goodness! I am so very sorry for your loss. I feel like I can understand just a bit what you are going through. Seven years ago we lost my mom at age 72 – to pancreatic cancer. She had been caring for my grandmother somewhat (lived next door was not staying with her 24/7). We found out during the 5 months my mom lived after diagnosis that my grandmother had alzheimers. At first we had caregivers staying with the both of them, but as mom’s disease progressed, it became apparent we must make other arrangements for my grandmother. It broke our hearts, but she went to a nearby facility. Because she had wonderful care there, she stayed there for almost 5 more years, before she passed away at age 98! So I understand the worries that come with making decisions, etc. It was a very hard time in my life. My prayers are with you and your family.
Oh my goodness, I’m so sorry. Unfortunatley, I’ve felt the pain of losing a parent too…a father in my case too. Every time someone else feels that pain, it brings it back a little for me. I wish no one else would have to experience that kind of feeling and sense of loss. In time, I was able to appreciate and gain comfort from the time I had with my father, instead of focusing on the time I didn’t have with him. He still lives on almost every day – in things he said, advice he gave, in my children’s retelling of “Papou Angelos” stories they’ve heard from us. You seem to have been blessed with a father as involved and supportive and loving as mine. Not everyone is given such a blessing – we are fortunate. But I’m so sorry, because I know how difficult it will be to move forward with out him. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Ok, I feel a little strange telling this story, I certainly hadn’t planned to….on Saturday night I had a dream that we met. I’ve been reading your blog for over 5 years, but that’s the extent of me ‘knowing you’. I follow A LOT of blogs regularly, can’t say I’ve ever dreamt about someone who hosts those. In this dream you were very busy with something, I wish I could remember what, but I went up to you and told you that I read your blog. You were so happy and you gave me a big hug. That’s the end of it really, dreams are hard to remember. In light of your loss, I guess just know that you’ve got such an extended family out there, people you don’t know aside from a few comments shared, but who would be there to give you a hug when needed. 🙂
Hi Courtney,
I am so sorry for the loss of your wonderful Dad. I hope the griefxthat weighs so heavy on your heart will be lifted, and you will find comfort and peace.
Good to know that your Mom is safe and happy.
God bless you and your beautiful family. You are in my thoughts. ????
Matilda
You did it, babe. Proud of you for finding the strength to post this amazing tribute to your dad.
Day by day, brick by brick.
Your family is so very loved and cherished.
Give to yourself as you need – your whole team is wrapping our arms around you.
xo
Oh Courtney, I’m so sorry to hear the news. Your father seemed like the best of the best. Thoughts and prayers are with you and may God grant you strength in the days ahead. Take good care.
I’m so sorry, Courtney.
Wow! How wonderful that you had such a loving supportive father. A treasure and amazing blessing .
How deeply he will be missed.
So very, very sorry for your loss. You’ve been immeasurably blessed to have such a wonderful father. Lifting your father and whole family up in prayer.
Holding your bad your family in prayer. What a beautiful tribute. And how meaningful to journey through Holy Week while grappling with the human side but being reminded of the divine resurrection.
Prayers that “the peace of Christ that surpasses all understanding guard your hearts and minds.”
*dad and your
I’m so sorry to hear of the loss of your father. I can’t even begin to imagine how you’re feeling. Thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
So sorry for your loss. Cherish all those beautiful memories.
I am so sorry for your loss. When I lost my mom unexpectedly 4 years ago, one thing that helped was reminding myself that I was fortunate that there was no regret. No regret for not telling my mom how I felt, not having a better relationship. Your dad knew that you loved him dearly, and you can grieve without guilt of regret of wishing he knew, or wishing your relationship was better. You can grieve without that extra baggage, and trust me, that is a blessing. Not everyone gets to grieve in that way. It does get better, I promise. . Take your time, don’t worry about all of us out here, we will still be here ready to read when you are ready, even if more intermittent. I am so sorry for all of you.
My heart broke when I saw this post. Praying for comfort for you and your family. God bless you all.
So very sorry for your loss. He sounds like a dear man and your love for him shines through.
Oh my deepest condolences to you. I am in tears reflecting back to when I lost my dad five years ago. It’s as if you were describing him…all on our way to soccer when we got the call, could fix or build literally anything, great dad and greater grandpa, my hero on so many levels. Sending you the biggest warmest hugs possible. So sorry for your loss.
So, so sorry for your families loss. You are right, your parents did touch the lives of everyone they met. I’m praying for all of you…sending lots of love during this hard time. Please hug Kristin for me, and have her hug you, and both of you hug jay special mamma of yours ❤️Makes me feel better that you have each other to lean on.
Thinking of you and your family. XO
What a beautiful tribute to your father Courtney. Heaven welcomed a another gem! I have said before how much I admire your family bond. The love your father showed in caring for your mother full time with Alzheimer’s is remarkable. It’s not easy, we’ve been there. I am glad she is able to still smile and find joy in her days. I know she is a blessing to you all right now. You will continue to be in our thoughts and prayers.
Your post left me teary eyed. I lost my mom nine years ago and my dad one year later. He passed away one day after their 52nd wedding anniversary. I wish you peace and grace. You were very fortunate to have had such a great role model in your life.
So sorry for your loss. You have written such a loving and moving tribute. Take care.
I am so very sorry for your loss. I lost my mother in 2012 very suddenly–she died in her sleep just a few hours after calling to check on me. While I certainly can’t know what you’re feeling, I remember all too well that shocking, gaping void, and I hurt for you as you face such a loss.
So sorry for your loss. You are so right when you say that kindness begets kindness. May the thought of him reuniting with your brother bring you comfort.
So, so sorry for your major loss. Your dad sounds like he was an amazing person and touched so many people’s lives. I hope you will find peace and comfort in the days, weeks and months ahead. I will keep you and your entire family in our prayers. God bless you.
I am so sorry for your loss. Your father sounds like an amazing man and I hope one day you find comfort in all the amazing memories you have. Praying for you and your family.
I am so sorry that you lost you precious dad so suddenly, Courtney. You and your family, especially your sweet mom, are in my prayers.
Hi Courtney, so sorry for your lost. I cried when I read your post. Please take all the time you need and you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Dear Courtney,I am very sorry for your loss and hope your dad will keep smiling at you and feeling proud of you,wherever he is,as that is what fathers do for their girls.May he rest in peace.Big hug to you from France when I’m saying a little prayer for your family.
Hi Courtney,
I’ve never commented on a blog before, though I have followed your blog for several years, at first for your organization projects and great eye for design. I’ve come to feel like you are a friend, and my heart aches for you as you so bravely face Alzheimer’s with your mom, talk so candidly about the pain of losing your brother, and now are wading through unbearable grief from your dad’s passing.
You have many of us “virtual friends” out there praying for you and your family. We are right here with you, sister, and will continue to be!
One of the things I truly love about your blog is that you are so genuine. I know its your decision whether to continue to blog, but I want you to know I would miss you if you didn’t keep writing to us. I enjoy all of your posts. I especially enjoy the ones where you have shared about your family, and especially your mother. Eventually, everyone comes to these times of life. We can all share in your pain and in your joy. Thank you for being such a kind and compassionate person. May God hug your family tightly in His arms until your pain has eased.
I am so sorry. I was worried that something had happened when you hadn’t posted in a few days. Just be sure to be kind to yourself during this difficult time.
May the Lord grant your family continued peace and comfort through this difficult lose.
My heart just aches for you and yours, Courtney… please know that you all are covered in prayer as you navigate this time. And also know that God is close to the broken-hearted ( I know you know this) and He will not leave or forsake you. Peace, love, and hugs…
xo Heidi
I am deeply saddened by your loss. I have been following your blog for many years. So glad your Dad encouraged you to keep with it. Thanks for sharing your stories with us. God bless you and your family at this time.
I visit your blog daily and enjoy it so much, but have never commented before. I couldn’t let today be another one of those days. I wanted to let you know that your sweet and precious words about your Dad were one of the kindest tributes I have ever read. I know that he was, and still is so very proud of the person you have become. Thank you so much for opening up your heart to all of us and sharing your family with us. I pray for peace, strength and comfort to all of you!
Courtney, My heartfelt condolences to you and all your family. I don’t usually write anything in the comments but want you to know how much i look forward to your posts. Be kind and gentle with yourself and love on your family even more than you normally do to help through this time. Saying prayers for you & your family.xx
Courtney-You & your precious family will be in my thoughts & prayers as you journey through this great loss. What assurance & hope to know you will see him again.
Your blog is such a beautiful place-thank you for sharing!
So sorry for your great loss. Sending you love and prayers.
Oh my–I am deeply sorry for your loss. There is just something so special about a Father/Daughters love for each other. Praying for peace and healing for your family.
Courtney, please accept my deepest condolences on the death of your dad. May warm and wonderful memories bring you comfort.
Oh no…I am so very sorry for your loss. ???????????? I was worried for you when you hadn’t posted in over a week. I will keep you and your family in my prayers. God bless you all…
Courtney, I’m so terribly sorry for the loss of your incredible Dad, and role model. Such a beautiful tribute to him. Your post touched my heart. I am crying reading your post as I had the pleasure of meeting him. I always loved seeing your parents together at the mall having coffee. Will be praying for your family this week ❤️ Sending love and hugs to you guys right now. It’s always hard to be the ones left behind, but what an incredible legacy he has left in you and your family. Love you!
I am so sorry for your loss. I understand as I recently too lost my father. The passing of a father is hard on each of his children. My father was a hero to me. He helped make me the woman that I am today.
People tell me it will get easier. It has in a way and yet not.
Your father is united with your brother now. They are free from pain.
Blessings to you and your family at this time.
Thank you for having the courage to share this. The love between you and your father makes the world a better place.
I am so incredibly sorry for the loss of your dad, cheerleader, mentor and friend. The void will never end but by the grace of God, the void will be flooded with memories, laughter, love and yes, tears. What a blessing it is to know that he lived such a full life and that today he is celebrating with our Savior and with your brother. There is no doubt that you all will provide your mom with the care and love she deserves and he provided. Take your time in healing and know that your blog friends are praying for you.
what a beautiful tribute to your dad. I am so very sorry to hear this news of his passing. You were obviously blessed to have such an amazing father but he to is blessed to have your love and continued care and support of your mom. god bless you and your entire family. My prayers are with you all.
I am so sorry to hear this news. Until you and your dad meet again, may God hold you in the palm of his hand. Sending love to your family, and yours in Notre Dame.
What a beautiful tribute of your dad! He sounds like he was an amazing dad (just like my dad whom I lost suddenly 9 years ago). Make some time for yourself as you go through grief and reflect on all the good memories you have of your dad. Praying that you will feel God’s loving arms surrounding you and your family in the days to come. ❤️❤️❤️
Courtney,
My prayers are with you and your family. A life well lived is one surrounded by love and it is evident that your Dad had lots of love. Sending you strength during this difficult time.
I am so sorry for the loss of your father. It is so devastating for a family to lose their rock. I am glad you have a good support system and that you have each other to get you through these hard times. There is healing in the passage of time and in the memories we have.
Thinking of you.
(p.s. on a selfish note, I am glad you are continuing to blog – I would miss it so.)
I’m so terribly sorry for your loss, Courtney. I will cover you and your family in prayers and love. Take strength in your faith and the community that surrounds you.
My thoughts are with your family. So sorry for your loss. Beautiful post about your father. He sounds like an amazing man.
What an Incredible testament to an amazing man. I have no doubt he is seeing this in heaven and smiling. He continues in you. Prayers to you and your family. I am so sorry for your loss. Though I never met him, knowing you and am sure he was an amazing person. God bless you honey.
Michelle
i’m so sorry for your loss xo
I’m so sorry for your loss.
I am so sorry to hear this news. Like others, I too was concerned about you last week. Hard to believe we can care so much about someone we have never met in person, but I feel like I know you after reading your blog for years. You are such a caring person, I know you and your sister will be busy with your mom. Take care of yourself too and know there are so many of us out here who are praying for you. God bless you.
Much grace to you and your family during this time. Happy though that he is reunited with your brother and with our heavenly Father. He would definitely want you to continue on with the blog since he was so proud of you and it. He is with you all the time!
I’m so sorry for your loss. You are a wonderful example of a great upbringing. Your dad must have been an awesome person and it shows in you.
You have my deepest sympathy…I know how hard it is to lose your rock. I hope the caring love of those he touched carries you right now.
Courtney – Even though we’ve not meet in person, I feel as if you’re a friend. My heart breaks for you and your precious loved ones during this time and I’m praying God provides you all with whatever you’re needing at each moment. Your Dad is home and know that the days will be hard going forward, but you will see him again and he will be whole. Godbless you and your family.
Love – Debi
Reading your story made me cry. What an amazing family man. I am so sorry for your loss and will be thinking of your family as you move forward.
Courtney your dad sounds like an amazing man. How blessed you are to call him yours! I’m sorry you and your family must go through this difficult time and hope all your finest memories of your father will keep your spirits buoyed through your grief. Lots of love sweet friend.
So very sorry for your loss. Wishing you peace as you navigate the coming days and months. Xo
I am so very sorry! Sending thoughts and prayers for your family. May your sweet memories of your dad bring you peace, comfort and healing. How very special that your dad gets to be with your brother on his birthday:) And how brave of you to notice something positive during such a difficult time.
My condolences for your loss. He sounds like a true wonderful man. The world is a better place because he lived in it.
I am very sorry for your loss. Take some time off to sort things out and come back when you are ready. It will be an honor for us and your father to continue doing what he loved!
I am sorry for the loss of your dad. Praying for you, your kids and your mama.
My heart breaks for you and your family. It sounds like he was able to live a full and loving life. I’m so sorry for your loss.
I too am saddened with your grief. Your father sounds like an amazing man and you are so blessed to have been his daughter. Memories live in our hearts forever. Visit them often and enjoy them. They were put there for a reason. As Father Hesburgh loved to say, “Come Holy Spirit”. I say that to myself often and know if will be a comfort to you too!
Courtney, I’m so sorry for your familiy’s loss. Your dad sounds like such a wonderful man, and his love for his family shines through in your words and photos. Prayers for you and your sweet mom and kiddos. Xoxo
I am so so very sorry for your loss. Praying for peace and healing for you and your beautiful family.
I have missed your posts, but I had no idea of what you were going through. I am so sorry for the loss of your father. What an incredible man who has left so much positive energy everywhere he went. You are so blessed to have him in your life and in your kids lives until 79 years of age. I’m sure God has brought him to his eternal home and he is celebrating with your brother. I will keep your family in my prayers.
Courtney, with tears streaming down my face I write to tell you thank you for this beautiful tribute. Last year I attended 12 memorial services in 12 months. Then added one more in January. I found, even through my cry baby tears, that the best part was hearing all the good the celebrated person brought to someone’s life. Your writing today has once again inspired me to make sure I say all the good I can while my people are with me here on earth. So to you I say, girl, you got this. This blog of yours is your super power.
Courtney,
I have been a loyal reader for a long time. About six years ago I lost a best friend. And whenever you wrote about your brother I felt a connection. It helped my heart. I am so sorry to hear about your loss. You mention your dad a lot and his love for your mom. I am praying for you, your children, and the rest of your family.
This is a beautiful testament to your father, Courtney. We’ve never met, but I’ve been reading your blog for a long time. I’ve been so touched by your recent posts about your mom and especially by your loving sentiments today. I wish you and your family comfort and peace, and hope your wonderful memories of your dad uplift you always.
I’m so sorry you’ve lost such a terrific man. I hope for peace for your family.
I’m so sorry for the loss of your dear father. Thank you for the beautifully written post you shared with us. All the family photos you included are lovely as well. I will keep you and your family in my prayers ????
I’m so very sorry to hear about the sudden loss of your beloved father. You have honored him beautifully with this tribute. My prayers are with you and your family. May God comfort you with peace and love in the days ahead.
Courtney,
I am so sorry for your loss. Nothing can prepare you to lose your dad. He sounds like a wonderful man. And he has an incredibly talented daughter. Wishing you peace and comfort and hope at this difficult time.
My heart aches for you Courtney. Losing our dads is the hardest thing to live through. I will pray for your sweet mother, your family, and especially, for your broken heart as you grieve the loss of your father. Lots of hugs.
Dear Courtney, Your dad spoke of your blog so proudly. He really enjoyed that you were involved in what you do. I am truly sorry for your loss. Your posted photos are beautiful. Mariann
I am so sorry for your loss. You have written a beautiful tribute to your father. May your memories bring some comfort during this difficult time. Your family is in my prayers.
Courtney
I hope you find comfort in all the good memories you had with your sweet Dad. I am so sorry!
May God wrap his hands around you, comfort you & your family. Beautiful tribute to your Dad.
Thinking of you.
You have an amazing way with words. This tribute is just so beautiful. I am so sorry for your loss. Hold tight to your faith, family, friends, and give yourself grace.
Courtney, I am so very sorry for your loss. Please know that your blog readers are sending love to you and your family during this difficult time.
I sent this quote to my husband shortly after he lost his mother to cancer three years ago, and it’s something that we’ve come back to occasionally when the grief comes back in waves. I wish I knew who wrote it. I hope it provides some small measure of comfort to you as well.
“We never really get over devastating loss. In the thick of it, we almost stop breathing; sometimes even wishing we could. And we know deep within that we will never be the same. Yet, one day we feel the sun on our face again. We find ourselves smiling at a child or a joke or a memory. And at that moment, we realize we are finding our way back. Changed forever? Yes. But also softer, deeper, and more vulnerable and more loving too. And we are breathing again.”
I am so sorry for your family’s loss. Your dad sounds like an incredible man. I wish you peace now in this difficult time and happiness in memories when you are ready for them.
I’m so so sorry for your loss Courtney. I am thinking of and praying for your family at this difficult time. Your dad sounds like an amazing man. Please know that whatever you decide to blog about and however often, your readers will support you. Do whatever is right for you. Xx
Courtney,
In the many years that I have been following your blog, I haven’t left a comment. I guess it felt strange to do so. However, I feel like you have become a friend. You share so much of your talent and love with me-a total stranger. I appreciate your honesty and thoughtfulness in all the material you post. Thank you!
When you went silent for a week, I found myself praying that all was well with you. I thought that maybe something had happened to your mother. I was hoping that you were on “spring break” and away from social media for a while. I am so sorry to hear that your father passed away. I can only imagine the grief that you are feeling. My heart goes out to you and your family.
I love that your friend/stylist came to your house to love on you and gave you a “pick me up” hair cut. That is such a kind gesture. It is always nice to hear how people lift up others.
I wish you peace!
Hugs…
Courtney,
I am so sorry you and your family are going through this. It is really hard to lose a parent.
Thank you for sharing your heart with us, for sharing about family, joy, loss, and learning and beautiful things.
We will be here whenever you’re back, take all the time you need.
Love and prayers for you and your family,
Amanda
Courtney, I am so very sorry for the loss of your father. What an ancredible man he was! I always love reading the posts about your family- your love for one another is so evident and that’s what family is all about, isn’t it? You and your family will be in my prayers.
Courtney, I am so very sorry for your pain and loss. You’re father sounds like he was an AMAZING man and it’s evident that his love and character shines through you. Praying for you and your family through the grief and sadness. BIG HUGS!!
Shauna
Very sorry to hear about your loss. I feel your pain and want to wish you peace and support during this time.
Sending you and your family lots of love and prayers
So sorry for your loss. Happy birthday to your brother. Thoughts and prayers to you and your family.
What a lovely tribute to your dad. He sounds like a wonderful man and how lucky were you to call him Dad. So, so sorry…….
Courtney, I am so sorry for your loss. What a beautifully written tribute to your father. How wonderful that so many people loved and respected your dad, and that you are able to hear about the ways in which he touched their lives. Sending prayers your way.
I’m sure Easter was difficult this year for you as it was for me too. Losing my mom recently made this first holiday so hard. I kept reminding myself of what the day was about.. “The Resurection” that is how I got through because I know that my mom was with our savior. I shed tears and wished she was here but, I also know that we will be together again. Only then, it will be forever . Be sure to pack that suitcases I did! I told my husband that I just needed to get away. We headed to San Diego and it was just what I needed. It got off the couch and the constant cleaning. I tend to clean when I’m upset. A two hour trip wasn’t that far but it renewed my soul. Something about getting away with the kids is just what I needed. I love every picture you post with your mom also. My mom was the same way and I cherished every moment with her. Sending so much love and prayers your way Courtney. ❤️
Always in my thoughts and prayers sweet friend. Praying for your love and strength during this sad time x
Courtney,
Because of your precious blog, I was able to learn so much from you! Whether it was a cute new outfit I snatched up on sale, or a yummy recipe that delighted my family, or a fresh new look that I was able to duplicate with ease in my living room, it was all because of YOU! You always nail it with conviction! It’s a passion with you, and it’s one that your daddy would want you to continue.
A prayer I will pass on that was sent to me when my dad passed that made my heart settle a bit from the hard sadness is this: You hold time within your hands, and see it all, from beginning to end. Please keep and carry these precious people in their sadness and loss. Cover them with your great wings of love, give their weary hearts rest and their minds sound sleep. Lord, lift their eyes so that they may catch a glimpse of eternity, and be comforted by the promise of heaven.
xo,
Carrie
Oh, Courtney, I’m so very sorry for your loss. What a beautiful tribute to your sweet dad. Again, I’m so so sorry. Thinking about you and your family.
I am so sorry for your loss. I rarely comment on blogs, but I thought you would like to know how much I appreciate your eloquent writing. Brought tears to my eyes. A father- daughter’s love is so special. I too felt that loss and still feel it 10 years after losing my father suddenly. Peace be with you and yours. Sue x
Courtney, I was so sorry to read your post about your sweet dad. I can only imagine the pain you are going through. I just wanted you to know that you are all in my prayers daily. Praying for comfort and healing for you all.
Dear Courtney,
At mass this evening, we were asked to pray for your precious dad, Tom. I did not know that he had passed away. I am so very sorry for your loss. I was speaking to Mary Clark tonight about your family. I feel we watched you grow up at St. Timothy’s then watched Kristen’s kids do the same. I had seen your folks several times over the last year. Your dad was so good to your mom. I am so glad to know she is protected and happy. My sweet mom in law never knew my Randy had passed because she had Alzheimer’s. We have to look for the blessings in our sorrow. You are all in my prayers and I wish you peace and comfort. God bless, Nancy