Please Read

One week ago, I was given the news that my Daddy had cancer and had six months to live. I was hesitant to share this information because I'm a private person and generally deal with struggles by myself. I prefer to be the strong one for others to lean on.

I was also hesitant because I had a hair tutorial posted and the comments were "have a great weekend!" Really? That's the only thing you could think to comment? Nothing on the post at all? It made me want to draw up, shut myself off, and not tell anyone my devastating news. Who would care anyway?

I was so, so wrong. I shared the news because I knew we needed all the prayers we could get. I finally admitted I couldn't handle this alone. And I was absolutely shocked and humbled by your amazing support from prayers, kind thoughts, and precious offers. I have no words for the gratitude I feel. You are amazing people.

Unfortunately, my dad's prognosis of six months didn't come to fruition. He made it just one week after learning he had cancer and passed away two hours after I arrived this weekend. He was only 59. We are shocked and are still processing everything. I cannot believe he was gone in a week. I thought we had more time.

It was downhill so, so fast. Although I am extremely sad about it, I am comforted that he didn't suffer for long and is no longer suffering. I plan on writing a post on him very soon. You would have loved him.

I felt so alone at first, I admit, but thanks to your kind comments, emails, and messages, I realize I'm not alone. Many of you shared your stories of parental loss. You are now my sisters. Again, I cannot thank every single one of you for everything. I truly mean that. Please believe me when I tell you I feel the love from you. My heart is full.

• Blog-wise you will find pre-written posts this week. I had anticipated spending lots of time with my Daddy so I wrote my posts ahead of time. I wanted to explain this so it didn't seem like I wasn't being genuine when you see this post and then tomorrow's which will be my regular type of posts. I hope that made sense.

• Also, when I learned he was sick, I had anticipated driving five hours every weekend to see my Daddy, so I signed on for several sponsored posts so I could use the money to fund my trips. I normally allow myself one sponsored post a month, so I hope you don't mind seeing them temporarily more frequently here and on my social media.

Thank you for reading and being understanding. -Elle