Tuesday, June 30, 2009

I Still Miss You

For those of you that may be new readers to this little bloggity blog of mine, you might not know that my Daddy passed away suddenly a year ago this past weekend. He was racing our sailboat with my Mom and our friend when it capsized. We think that the stress of the event caused a pulmonary embolism that took him quickly while he was doing something that he loved. It was two weeks before my 24th birthday and two-ish months before our wedding. It was the worst day of my life. This past year, and Father’s Day especially, has been extremely difficult and filled with ups and downs along with lots of questions and tears.

I don’t know what I would have done if it wouldn’t have been for my then fiancĂ© taking off two weeks of work to be with my Mommy and I almost non-stop and my friends for checking in constantly, even though I wasn’t strong enough to talk to them. To be honest, I don't know how my Mom has done it. To be still standing after such a devastating life event is quite remarkable. I admire her more than she knows.

So, my friends, I'll be taking the rest of this {already short} week off from blogging to spend time with family and friends and just celebrate the 24 years that I had with my Daddy. He won awards from our sailing club for his legendary margaritas and we'll be attempting to replicate his recipe and toasting to his wonderful life. Over this holiday weekend I hope that you spend time appreciating those around you and cherishing how special and short life really is.

And, to those of you lucky enough to walk down the aisle with your Daddy, I hope that your photographer obtains a picture like this beauty:
photo via: our blog of love

22 comments:

TiffanyM522 said...

I wept the day I read it a year ago and today, I can't believe its been a year. God Bless and cheers!

Adrienne said...

Hang in there! You will be in my prayers this weekend.

Jennifer said...

Your Mom is a very strong woman and both of you are lucky to be surrounded with such wonderful people. Your Dad was such a wonderful man and I'm happy to have been given the chance to know him (and you and your mom) while he was here with us. We'll be thinking of you this weekend.

Stephanie said...

I don't know that I've ever told you this, but I will never forget the way your Mom looked and you and Chris on the dance floor at the end of your reception. She was in the middle of the room, seated, with the purest expression of love and smile on her face. I remember wishing I had a camera and some talent to capture such a lovely expression. And I just know that your Daddy looks at you the same way from Heaven. I just know it.

Hugs.

Kiana said...

I remember reading about what you went through - It's truly heart wrenching, but you handle yourself with such grace. It's very admirable. Enjoy yourself as much as you can this week/end, but remember it's still ok to be sad.

Blog Love, Kiana

Unknown said...

I remember the day I read your post about your daddy last year and how I cried. I felt so moved and touched by your situation even though i didn't know you. Losing your father and losing that chance to have him give you away really broke my heart. My father and I haven't always had the best relationship and at times we would fight- I found myself thinking of you and how you lost your dad so young. It helped keep things in perspective for me, that life is short and to treasure every moment. I can't imagine what it's like to think he's been gone for a year, but if your tribute to him on your blog is any indication of how wonderful he was, I know he is smiling down on you today and always.

*hugs*

The Southbay Newlyweds said...

OH yes I remember your post! I have thought of you...especially over Father's Day. You and your family are in my prayers.

LauraAnn said...

You and your mom are in my prayers! Hang in there! Please do not hesitate to give Rich and I a call if you guys need anything at all. I hope that you have a wonderful 4th of July and that you are successfully able to recreate those legendary margaritas! We love you lots!!! Tell your mom that we send our love and prayers!

Cat said...

Oh, Jessica- I had no idea! I hope that you and your family are able to enjoy this week and celebrate the time you did have with your Dad! I'll be thinking of you!!!

erica said...

My thoughts and prayers are with you as you remember your dad. He sure sounds like he was a special person. You have written some beautiful words about him here!

Nicole-Lynn said...

I remember reading about it last year and my heart really goes out to you. You and your mom are so strong! Hang in there sweetie, and lean on your husband, mom, and friends when needed!

Unknown said...

I remember reading about it last year and I was so shocked and sad for you...my thoughts and prayers are with you this weekend.

startsinmynose said...

your in my thoughts.....being with family is a great way to remember your father, and im sure your mom appreciates YOUR strength as well.

Pretty Bride said...

beautifully written... we're all thinking of you! enjoy your time with family this weekend...

Amy Jo said...

My thoughts and prayers are with you as you remember your dad! God Bless!

Mr. Larbi said...

I love you baby, you amaze me everyday. I look forward to a great weekend with you.

THE RED STUDIO said...

Been thinking about you, Jessica. Hope you and your mom are doing well.

Rachel said...

I lost my dad in a freak accident when I was 21. Its been 7 years and still hurts. Father's Day is never fun, but I do have 21 years of memories to remember. I know that not having my dad walk me down the aisle is going to be rough. My grandpa is going to have the honors. It gets easier, but never better. Just focus on all the good times. He's watching over you.
-Rachel

Jessie@FitnessFamilyAndMore said...

You will always miss him. It never goes away. But he will always be in your heart. So be sad, cry - together with your mom and after that dry your tears and laugh. For your dad.

A Wedding Story said...

That is so awful to hear! I pray for you much healing after such a difficult loss. He must have been a very special man.

Eve said...

Was thinking about you realizing that the anniversary of the terrible day was around this time of year. You're in my thoughts and prayers. No dobut you were the light of his life.

~k said...

Thinking of you today.