• Home
  • About
    • Meet Cassie
    • Frequently Asked Questions
    • Press
  • Style
    • Date Night
    • Day to Night
    • Dressing Room Diaries
    • Fall & Winter Style
    • Five Ways
    • Now & Later
    • Spring & Summer
    • Style Tips
    • Sugarplum Style
    • Work Wear
  • Travel
    • International
      • Mexico
      • The Bahamas
      • Europe
    • United States
      • Sun
      • Snow
      • Hike
    • Big D
    • Cruising
    • Great Stays
    • Packing Tips
  • Lifestyle
    • Beauty
    • Family
    • Food
    • Holidays
    • Organizing
    • Parties
    • Personal
    • Ramblings
    • Simple Projects
  • Decor
    • Bathrooms
    • Bedrooms
    • Dining Room
    • Kitchen
    • Laundry & Mudroom
    • Family Room
    • Living Room
    • Tablescapes
    • Outdoor
    • Lake House
    • One Room Challenge
    • Shop My Home
  • shop
    • Monday Mail Day
    • Faves Under $50
    • Amazon Fashion Finds
    • Amazon Home & Decor Finds
    • Look for Less
    • Shop My Instagram
    • Sugarplum Picks
    • My Home
    • My Carry On Bag
  • Contact

Hi Sugarplum!

Dear Dad

December 17, 2017

father daughter wedding

This was my father, the man who loved me even if he didn’t always know how to show it. The man who wanted the very best for me, even if he couldn’t say it.

He was complicated, beautiful, charismatic, sarcastic, intelligent, persistent, and driven. Our relationship was messy, but I know I got his very best traits (except for the weird webbed-toes, thanks for that!). He taught me to work hard, push harder, write a killer thank you note, jump waves, snow ski, argue my opinion, and take a chance on the scary stuff. He made me believe success was there for anyone willing to work for it.

Goodbye, dear Dad. You will never be forgotten, and are loved more than you knew. I take comfort knowing you are finally at peace, whole and new. I know when we see each other again, it will be perfect and right. Give Poppoo a hug for me!

Your adoring daughter, Cass. xo

 


Make sure you follow me on Facebook here for daily sales & sign up for my weekly newsletter here for sneak peeks, special Q&As, & Sugarplum Picks!

by Cassie 
82 Comments
Share:
Family, Personal

 

About Cassie

View all posts by Cassie

Related Posts

  • Family Fun at Home (+ 30 New Ideas!)
  • Merry Christmas from Us!
  • Scenes From a Family Road Trip
  • {Your Questions} My House
previous article: Sugarplum Style, Vol. 56
next article: Sugarplum Christmas | 2017 Home Tour

Comments

  1. patti says: December 17, 2017 at 7:21 pm

    That was beautiful……….

    Reply
  2. Kristen says: December 17, 2017 at 7:22 pm

    What a beautiful, beautiful post. Thinking of you, Cassie.

    Reply
  3. Lori says: December 17, 2017 at 8:33 pm

    So sorry for your loss Cassie. I lost my dad last year so I sadly can relate to your pain. Your fashion-sense is amazing and I follow your page for inspiration! I couldn’t read your post today without sending you and your family comfort from Illinois, especially so close to the holiday.

    Reply
  4. Chris says: December 17, 2017 at 9:08 pm

    Cassie, I am so sorry to hear about your dad!! You and your family are in my thoughts and prayer!

    Reply
  5. Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog says: December 17, 2017 at 9:17 pm

    This was a beautiful post to read. Wishing you well. ❤

    Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
    http://charmainenyw.com

    Reply
  6. Joyce says: December 17, 2017 at 9:19 pm

    What a beautiful and loving tribute to your father! My own father passed away in 2014 and although I still miss him daily, time has helped to transform the feelings of loss into those of peace: May you and your family find peace in the days to come….

    Reply
  7. Marty Oravetz says: December 17, 2017 at 10:03 pm

    Such a beautiful tribute to your dad. My prayers are with you and your family. God Bless.

    Reply
  8. laura nuss says: December 17, 2017 at 10:24 pm

    Sending you prayers and thoughts from Colorado.
    Wishing you peace this season.

    Merry Christmas
    laura

    Reply
  9. Sheaffer Sims says: December 18, 2017 at 5:15 am

    This was such a lovely tribute to your dad. And I’m forever grateful that you got his sarcastic gene. It makes my daily life so much fun. Love you, friend. So many prayers for you.

    Reply
  10. Sandy says: December 18, 2017 at 5:26 am

    Dearest Cassie,
    Such a beautiful, loving tribute.
    Thoughts and prayers from Chicago.

    Reply
  11. Judy Clark says: December 18, 2017 at 5:49 am

    Dear Cassie,
    I read your blog every day. One of the things that I observed early on was that the relationship between you and your Dad was not what you wanted it to be. I remind my hubby all of the time that he better make sure that he leaves a loving, supportive legacy to our children. My Daddy was very special to me. I was his baby girl for sure!

    I will pray for you. God Bless You. Thank you for sharing your heart today.
    Judy

    Reply
  12. Staci says: December 18, 2017 at 5:50 am

    So eloquently said. I’m so sorry –letting you into my world each day makes this feel so personal and my heart aches for you, although we’ve never met. XO

    Reply
  13. Sandy says: December 18, 2017 at 5:56 am

    PS- Thank you for opening your heart, home and soul to us.

    Reply
  14. Terri says: December 18, 2017 at 6:24 am

    What a beautiful photo and letter. My sympathy to you and your family at this difficult time.

    Reply
  15. Carol says: December 18, 2017 at 6:26 am

    I’m so sorry for your loss. I’ll be praying for you. He raised a wonderful daughter in you!

    Reply
  16. Terri says: December 18, 2017 at 6:26 am

    My sympathy to you and your family. What a beautiful photo

    Reply
  17. Andi says: December 18, 2017 at 6:31 am

    So sorry for your loss. May your father’s memory be a blessing to you and your family at this difficult time. XO

    Reply
  18. Kerry says: December 18, 2017 at 6:59 am

    So sorry for your thoughts, Cassie. Praying for you and your family during this difficult time.

    Reply
  19. heather says: December 18, 2017 at 7:04 am

    Beautifully written Cassie. Lots of love, thoughts and prayers for you and your family from us.

    Reply
  20. Brenda Haynes says: December 18, 2017 at 7:05 am

    Beautiful. I’m so sorry for your loss. Lifting you and your family up in prayers for comfort and peace.

    Reply
  21. Jerry Stocks says: December 18, 2017 at 7:08 am

    So glad you were able to go see him when you did. Now there are no regrets. So sorry he’s gone and your tribute to him is lovely.

    Reply
  22. kathy says: December 18, 2017 at 7:12 am

    I’m so sorry, Cassie.

    Reply
  23. Ashley says: December 18, 2017 at 7:33 am

    So sorry, Cassie. Hope you can feel a sense of peace that surpasses all understanding. I know your relationship with your dad was messy, but I suspect that you were loved more than you knew too! I know he was proud of you.

    Reply
  24. MONICA ADDINGTON says: December 18, 2017 at 7:42 am

    So sorry for your loss Cassie. Beautiful letter to your Dad.

    Monica

    Reply
  25. Dawn Scheurich says: December 18, 2017 at 8:03 am

    ❤️🙏🏻

    Reply
  26. Megan | Honey We're Home says: December 18, 2017 at 8:04 am

    I’m sending you so much extra love today. I hope you can feel all the love from all of us who know you and adore you. Your words to your Dad are so beautiful and honest. Proud of you girl. Big hugs.

    Reply
  27. Jennifer says: December 18, 2017 at 8:07 am

    I’m so sorry for your loss Cassie! Sending you and your family hugs and prayers from Michigan!

    Reply
  28. Karyl says: December 18, 2017 at 8:12 am

    I am so sorry for your loss. Many years ago a friend who also has a complicated relationship with one of his parents told me that he remained at peace with the situation because, “In heaven, all relationships will be redeemed.” That insight was so striking that it continues to change the way I act this side of heaven. Thank you for sharing the same wisdom with your readers. ‘Praying for your continued peace.

    Reply
  29. Susan says: December 18, 2017 at 8:17 am

    Tears are flowing after reading your beautiful tribute. Prayers for you and your family.

    Reply
  30. AliJ says: December 18, 2017 at 8:19 am

    So sorry for your loss Cassie, that was beautifully written.

    Reply
  31. Rachel Steck says: December 18, 2017 at 8:22 am

    I am so sorry for your loss, Cassie. My thoughts go out to you and your family.
    xoxo

    Reply
  32. Marti Gommermann says: December 18, 2017 at 8:24 am

    I am very sorry for your loss. The picture of your parents is amazing and I am struck by how much you and your mother look alike. Thank you for sharing…prayers to you and your beautiful family.

    Reply
  33. Melanie says: December 18, 2017 at 8:29 am

    No matter the complexity of a relationship, the heart still aches the same. Be gentle to your soul and find peace in knowing that so many are thinking about you during this difficult time. Sending you strength and support.

    Reply
  34. Lori says: December 18, 2017 at 8:42 am

    Oh Cassie….I’m so sorry. What a lovely tribute. I remember reading a post few years ago about the complicated relationship with your dad. How lucky was he to have a daughter like you with such a big forgiving heart. Hugs and prayers to you and your family.

    Reply
  35. Kathryn says: December 18, 2017 at 8:51 am

    How beautifully and eloquently written. Sending lots of prayers your way!

    Reply
  36. Jeni says: December 18, 2017 at 8:56 am

    Cassie, you have brightened many a day for me since losing my mom suddenly before Thanksgiving in 2015 and then being diagnosed with cancer 2 months later. My mom suffered with mental health challenges my whole life and I have multiple family members who could be described as very complicated/painfully difficult people, but also the most special people imaginable, like your Popoo! You and your family have my deepest condolences and I hope that the amazing life you’ve created provides much comfort at this time. Thank you for heart in everything you do!
    XO!!!

    Reply
  37. Jeni says: December 18, 2017 at 9:00 am

    Sorry, haven’t had enough coffee yet apparently!!! That was supposed to say thank you for sharing your heart in everything you do! You’re the BEST! 🙂

    Reply
  38. Susan says: December 18, 2017 at 9:08 am

    So very sorry for your loss…..

    Reply
  39. Maureen says: December 18, 2017 at 9:08 am

    So sorry for your loss.
    I understand where you are in the grieving.
    My father passed in October and it is still so fresh.
    I am fortunate to have my mother and 6 siblings but still it is personal.
    I wish you all the best for a blessed holiday season.

    Reply
  40. Wanda says: December 18, 2017 at 9:18 am

    Thanks so much for sharing this. I lost my own Dad in July and your words are precious to me in this bittersweet season. Ours was a messy relationship also. Writing about him right away also helped me at the time – I wrote his eulogy. May you find comfort and peace that surpasses understanding in the weeks to come. May your heart and mind be filled with all the beautiful, funny, special memories you have of him. I am so very sorry for your loss. Prayers and blessings to you. xoxo

    Reply
  41. Jenn DeVille says: December 18, 2017 at 9:19 am

    Prayers to you from a small town in Texas!

    Reply
  42. Stacey Hatem says: December 18, 2017 at 9:28 am

    I’m so very sorry for your loss, Cassie.

    Reply
  43. Heidi Ferguson says: December 18, 2017 at 9:33 am

    So very sorry to hear that your daddy passed. All relationships are complicated it seems. It doesn’t surprise me that you chose to see the GOOD in your father and that he was in the end a POSITIVE influence.

    Reply
  44. Bobbie says: December 18, 2017 at 10:03 am

    My deepest condolences to you and your family.

    Reply
  45. Vee says: December 18, 2017 at 10:53 am

    Cassie, I am so sorry for your loss. Hugs to you. If there is anything we, as your online friends can do, please let us know.

    Reply
  46. Sally says: December 18, 2017 at 11:26 am

    Sorry for your loss.

    Reply
  47. Michele says: December 18, 2017 at 11:54 am

    I’m so sorry for your loss. I lost my dad last year on Christmas Day. I can honestly say I sympathize with you. I pray that you will have comfort and peace.

    Reply
  48. Laura says: December 18, 2017 at 12:20 pm

    Truly sorry for your loss. There are no profound words to comfort you for everyone’s loss is complex and personal making words almost irrelevant. Grieving is a process. We go through this process for the rest of our lives. So don’t look for the end – just ride the waves of grief as they come. Stay strong.

    Laura

    Reply
  49. elizabeth says: December 18, 2017 at 12:28 pm

    Thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.I wish you comfort,strength and love.

    Elizabeth, N.Y.C.

    Reply
  50. Melissa Maris says: December 18, 2017 at 12:59 pm

    Oh, Cassie. I’m so sorry. Sending you and your family light and love.

    Reply
  51. Jenny says: December 18, 2017 at 1:07 pm

    Sending prayers for you and your family. Your words are a beautiful way to honor your father. Family can be so complicated but the love between a father and daughter is so special. May the good memories always be what comes to mind and may the Lord be ever near to you right now. Psalm 34:18 The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.

    In Christ,
    Jenny

    Reply
  52. Sarah says: December 18, 2017 at 1:22 pm

    I am so sorry for your loss. I lost my father this year as well and find this post so beautiful and touching. It seems like he was very well loved. My condolences to you and your family.

    Reply
  53. Cathy Tokarski says: December 18, 2017 at 1:26 pm

    Dear Cassie,

    Joining the community of people here who love and support you, in times of happiness and sorrow. Your father passed on some qualities that helped make you the joyful, funny, and hard-working woman that you are. Praying for your peace and comfort in the days and weeks ahead.
    Cathy (another Chicago fan).

    Reply
  54. Brittany aka Pretty Handy Girl says: December 18, 2017 at 1:34 pm

    Cassie, I’m so sorry for your loss. I will keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.

    Reply
  55. Tina says: December 18, 2017 at 3:04 pm

    So very sorry for your loss, Cassie.
    These are beautiful words for a special man, you’ll be in my thoughts and prayers…

    Reply
  56. GT says: December 18, 2017 at 3:52 pm

    I’m so sorry for your loss, especially during this time of the year.

    Reply
  57. Sharon says: December 18, 2017 at 4:09 pm

    What a beautiful sentiment Cassie. I am so sorry for your loss.
    http://www.forthewonderer.com

    Reply
  58. Britney Crawley says: December 18, 2017 at 4:14 pm

    What a beautiful photo. So sorry for your loss, Cassie. I’ll be praying for you and your loved ones this week and through the holiday as well.

    Reply
  59. Monika says: December 18, 2017 at 4:17 pm

    Losing a father, no matter how complicated the relationship, is truly so sad. Hugs and prayers sent out to you and your family.

    Reply
  60. Nancy Nimmo says: December 18, 2017 at 6:09 pm

    What a heartfelt honest tribute and farewell.
    You are a beautiful authentic heartwarming daughter.
    And now a loving giving mother.
    Peace to you.

    Reply
  61. Jennifer says: December 18, 2017 at 7:31 pm

    I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

    Reply
  62. Michelle says: December 18, 2017 at 8:22 pm

    Sending love and light from New York. A beautuful letter to share with us. May you find peace at this difficult time, especially so close to the holiday. Lots of love to you.

    Reply
  63. Robyn says: December 18, 2017 at 8:42 pm

    So sorry for your loss……may you find much peace, strength and courage in those that love you most xo

    Reply
  64. Jenny says: December 18, 2017 at 9:33 pm

    I am so sorry for your loss Cassie. I lost my dad last Easter. It sounds like we had similar relationships with our dads. I will keep you in my prayers.

    Reply
    • Angela says: December 18, 2017 at 10:00 pm

      I just lost my dad as well. Thinking and praying for you.

      Reply
  65. April Parrish says: December 18, 2017 at 10:08 pm

    So sorry for your loss! Prayers to you and your family!

    Reply
  66. Sugar Bostick says: December 18, 2017 at 11:10 pm

    Prayers for comfort and peace at this time and always. Thank you for sharing your heart.

    Reply
  67. Angie says: December 19, 2017 at 7:16 am

    So sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers to you and your family.

    Reply
  68. Shelley | Crazy Wonderful says: December 19, 2017 at 7:44 am

    Oh Cassie, I am so sorry. Your words are absolutely beautiful. Sending prayers for comfort and hugs to you and your family.

    Reply
  69. Pam says: December 19, 2017 at 8:34 am

    So sorry for your loss. Your message was so well written. Your dad would be so proud.

    Reply
  70. Shirley says: December 19, 2017 at 8:53 am

    The right words are always hard to say, but know that all of those people who you bring joy to on a daily basis, are praying for you and are so sorry for your loss. Thanks for showing that though life and relationships are not always perfect, you can make the best of it.

    Reply
  71. Ivory says: December 19, 2017 at 10:36 am

    So sorry fr your loss. I feel your pain and your joy, because you now knw that God has another angle to look over us all. I feel your pain for the loss f someone so loved and was so close to you, because I loss my parents, it was back to back. There were so many emotions I faced, but God got this, and he only taking the best! Keep your chin up, because, again, God has another best!

    Reply
  72. Amy says: December 19, 2017 at 7:47 pm

    What a special post. Ditto.

    Reply
  73. Mary Catherine says: December 19, 2017 at 10:01 pm

    Beautiful, heartfelt words. My father passed away 7 years ago on 12/18 and not a day goes by that I don’t think of him and miss him dearly. The holidays are tough but I know he’s in the most glorious place and I have comfort knowing I’ll see him again. I hope that will bring you peace too. God bless you and your loved ones.

    Reply
  74. Laura says: December 20, 2017 at 7:04 pm

    I’m so sorry for your loss Cassie. I know how difficult it is to lose a parent.

    Reply
  75. Lynette says: December 20, 2017 at 11:00 pm

    Oh, Cassie, I’m so, so sorry for your loss. I wish you days of peace and love with your family over the holidays. Take time for yourself during this vulnerable time. Love to all of you.

    Reply
  76. Debra says: December 21, 2017 at 12:35 am

    I am so sorry. 😔

    Reply
  77. Jackie Carlon says: December 22, 2017 at 2:32 pm

    I read your post to your dad and it could have been written to my dad. I too lost dad nearly 4 years ago and he too was difficult, sarcastic, stubborn and a ‘hard’ ‘hard’ chocolate with a gooey centre; getting to that centre was a journey in itself! Upon reflection he taught me the most. To do an honest day’s work for an honest day’s pay, never be afraid to get your hands dirty and don’t take c**p from anyone. He was a hard, hard man but in the 51 years I had him I never ever ever heard him swear neither to anyone, or about anyone. He was a troubled man and it sounds like he’d be enjoying a beer/cup of tea with your dad, wherever that may be. Hopefully we’ve done them proud. Merry Christmas from the land down under xx

    Reply
  78. Kristie W. says: January 13, 2018 at 7:15 pm

    I missed your original post and saw the link in your newsletter today, so deeply sorry for your loss. Sending hugs and prayers to you and your family.

    Reply
  79. Anna M says: January 22, 2018 at 10:54 pm

    Beautifully said SugarPlum. I am 26 and lost my father very suddenly this past May. He was of a different generation with traits similar to what you described above. From a stranger, it might seem odd to say, but it’s okay to be sad. I still have a few moments where I catch my feelings and tear up – at home, work, the post office. It’s not weird. It is normal. The moments have further space between them now, and it has become easier to remember with joy instead of sadness. My thoughts are with you and your family in this time.

    Reply
  80. Susan skilton says: December 17, 2020 at 6:12 am

    Cassie, I am so sorry for your losing your daddy. Families are sometimes complicated…. I hope you are feeling peaceful, and find joy in precious memories as you celebrate his life❤️

    Reply
    • Cassie says: December 17, 2020 at 9:57 am

      Thank you so, so much Susan <3 <3 <3

      Reply

Leave Your Comments Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

 

  • Bloglovin
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • RSS
  • Twitter

Don’t Miss a Post

Subscribe to Hi Sugarplum!

Thank you for subscribing!

Archives

  • ►2022 (86)
    • ►June (12)
    • ►May (15)
    • ►April (16)
    • ►March (15)
    • ►February (14)
    • ►January (14)
  • ►2021 (201)
    • ►December (19)
    • ►November (20)
    • ►October (18)
    • ►September (13)
    • ►August (14)
    • ►July (15)
    • ►June (17)
    • ►May (18)
    • ►April (17)
    • ►March (17)
    • ►February (15)
    • ►January (18)
  • ►2020 (197)
    • ►December (21)
    • ►November (19)
    • ►October (21)
    • ►September (14)
    • ►August (16)
    • ►July (14)
    • ►June (17)
    • ►May (14)
    • ►April (16)
    • ►March (15)
    • ►February (12)
    • ►January (18)
  • ►2019 (209)
    • ►December (21)
    • ►November (16)
    • ►October (18)
    • ►September (16)
    • ►August (16)
    • ►July (18)
    • ►June (14)
    • ►May (19)
    • ►April (19)
    • ►March (16)
    • ►February (17)
    • ►January (19)
  • ►2018 (207)
    • ►December (18)
    • ►November (20)
    • ►October (19)
    • ►September (14)
    • ►August (17)
    • ►July (16)
    • ►June (16)
    • ►May (20)
    • ►April (17)
    • ►March (16)
    • ►February (16)
    • ►January (18)
  • ►2017 (206)
    • ►December (16)
    • ►November (20)
    • ►October (17)
    • ►September (16)
    • ►August (17)
    • ►July (17)
    • ►June (19)
    • ►May (18)
    • ►April (15)
    • ►March (20)
    • ►February (14)
    • ►January (17)
  • ►2016 (204)
    • ►December (16)
    • ►November (15)
    • ►October (17)
    • ►September (17)
    • ►August (18)
    • ►July (16)
    • ►June (18)
    • ►May (17)
    • ►April (17)
    • ►March (20)
    • ►February (15)
    • ►January (18)
  • ►2015 (203)
    • ►December (17)
    • ►November (16)
    • ►October (18)
    • ►September (16)
    • ►August (16)
    • ►July (18)
    • ►June (15)
    • ►May (16)
    • ►April (17)
    • ►March (17)
    • ►February (17)
    • ►January (20)
  • ►2014 (220)
    • ►December (20)
    • ►November (14)
    • ►October (19)
    • ►September (21)
    • ►August (18)
    • ►July (18)
    • ►June (18)
    • ►May (17)
    • ►April (19)
    • ►March (21)
    • ►February (17)
    • ►January (18)
  • ►2013 (236)
    • ►December (19)
    • ►November (17)
    • ►October (20)
    • ►September (19)
    • ►August (20)
    • ►July (20)
    • ►June (19)
    • ►May (22)
    • ►April (21)
    • ►March (18)
    • ►February (20)
    • ►January (21)
  • ►2012 (248)
    • ►December (21)
    • ►November (19)
    • ►October (23)
    • ►September (21)
    • ►August (21)
    • ►July (20)
    • ►June (18)
    • ►May (21)
    • ►April (20)
    • ►March (22)
    • ►February (21)
    • ►January (21)
  • ►2011 (263)
    • ►December (21)
    • ►November (23)
    • ►October (22)
    • ►September (23)
    • ►August (21)
    • ►July (23)
    • ►June (22)
    • ►May (19)
    • ►April (23)
    • ►March (22)
    • ►February (21)
    • ►January (23)
  • ►2010 (168)
    • ►December (30)
    • ►November (22)
    • ►October (22)
    • ►September (22)
    • ►August (20)
    • ►July (21)
    • ►June (22)
    • ►May (9)

Copyright © 2022 · Hi Sugarplum! · Privacy Policy