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The Kitchen Table

Back from my mom's funeral

15 years ago

First of all, thanks to everyone who offered their condolences. I really appreciated it.

The last few days were actually really lovely. When we were rushing around getting everything ready, we all complained about all the work and expense of the funeral (not that Mom wasn't worth it but we didn't feel focused on her while running all the errands the funeral required) but when all was said and done, it was all worth it. Hundreds of people came to her viewing. We had a great visit with our distant family. I had the best time talking to my dad's sister who is in her late 80s and sharp as a tack. The weather was great. My mom looked beautiful. The flowers were incredible. The priest did a great job. The funeral luncheon was delicious.

My parents didn't have a plot yet but the cemetery squeezed them in two spots right at the top, looking down on everyone. It was actually kind of neat to see everyone disperse at the cemetery after the burial - they all went to find their relatives since most of my relatives on both sides are buried in the same cemetery.

Tears were shed but we had a lot of laughs too. My mom would have loved every bit of it.

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Comments (17)

dotmom
15 years ago
It sounds like a nice send-off for a nice lady. What a testimony to the lady she was, from the number of people who came to say farewell. Hugs to you, Paula, may you soon be able to smile at your memories of her.
lynn_d
15 years ago
It sounds like you had a good celebration of her life, Paula. We should all leave behind such a wonderful legacy. Bless your sweet heart.
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folkvictorian
15 years ago
Your mom must have been a very special person, Paula. Her final and greatest gift to you was to bring your extended family and friends together for a beautiful day. You'll treasure these memories for ever!
schoolhouse_gw
15 years ago
I only hope I can face the day in the manner you and your family did. Again, my sympathies.
Toni S
15 years ago
You have a wonderful attitude. I'm so glad everything fell into place and you were able to visit with and enjoy your family and friends. (Paula)
FlamingO in AR
15 years ago
You do have a wonderful attitude, Paula and I'm glad that visiting with all the family was enjoyable. That's great that space was found and in a lovely location, too.
susie53_gw
15 years ago
So glad to hear things went well. You Mom sounds wonderful. I know you will miss her. Isn't it wonderful to hear the stories from family and friends about her? Reminds me of my FIL'S funeral. Many guys my hubby worked with came and told him later they could tell we were a happy family because there was laughter when they came in. But a few days later my MIL ( she was quite the pill) was looking over the bill. They charged her $90.00 to transport the flowers to the cemetery. She said had she known that she would have put them in the back of her car and took them herself. She would have done it, too.
Georgysmom
15 years ago
So glad all went well. What a wonderful tribute to your mom.
jannie
15 years ago
Sounds like she would have enjoyed it.
glenda_al
15 years ago
You will have special memories to share.
vicki_lv_nv
15 years ago
Your post made me feel so good for you and your family. You made the very best of it. And your Mom is sure proud of all of you. (((Paula)))
ruthieg__tx
15 years ago
What a wonderful tribute to your Mom. I hope you continue to find reason to smile when you think of her.......
Marilyn Sue
15 years ago
It sounds like it all worked out, but am so sorry for your loss.

Sue
lydia1959
15 years ago
I'm glad things went well. It sounds like the last few days have been a celebration of your Mom's life... which is the way it should be.

I'm sure your Mom was there in spirit enjoying every bit of it. ((Paula))
patti43
15 years ago
Glad you were able to find peace under stressful circumstances. ((Paula))
kacram
15 years ago
((((((Paula))))))))))
sjerin
15 years ago
That is a wonderful send-off for your dear mother. I was so sorry to read that she had passed this soon--my sincere condolences to you, Paula.

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