Hi Reader,

Six years ago today, my father passed away from brain cancer.

It rocked our family, and it was probably the hardest thing I’ve ever gone through. For a few years, I didn’t really know what to do with this day. I would mostly relive those last few days: my family all racing across Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, and Illinois to get there in time once we knew it was the end. My siblings doing the same from Portland, San Francisco, and Chicago. Spending the last few days holding his (and my Mom’s) hand and wishing things were different.

These days, I try to focus more on his memory and the things he loved. Taking a walk outside. Enjoying a great cup of coffee. Making one of his favorite cookie recipes. Calling or texting my loved ones and remembering the man we all miss.

Yesterday, my youngest son, who was just five when my dad passed, said he wished he had known Grandpa longer. That stopped me in my tracks a little. It reminded me how much the stories, old photos, and small traditions matter. They help keep him close, and they help my kids know him in ways they didn’t get to before.

This sugar cookie recipe was my dad’s favorite. It was one he grew up eating, made by his own grandmother. These cookies showed up on our table at every Christmas and family gathering, and now they’ve become a staple in our house too. Every time I make them, I think of him.

For anyone else carrying grief, I just want to say that you’re not alone. It does get a little easier over time, but some days still catch you off guard, even years later. I’ve found that the small rituals help: making the recipe, telling the story, taking the walk, pouring the coffee. They don’t take the grief away, but they do give all that love somewhere to go.

Today, I’m sharing my dad’s favorite sugar cookies in his memory. I hope they bring a little sweetness to your table, too.

I've made these so many times that I don't need the card anymore. Here's the recipe:

My Dad's Favorite Sugar Cookies

This soft, doughy cookie is not your average sugar cookie. A bit tangy from sour cream and a very soft and puffy texture, it’s pure comfort for me and is great with icing, or, as my dad always liked them, without, dunked in a big mug of coffee. I hope you love them as much as we do!