Unexpected insights

Today was my Grandmother’s funeral. It was a very unusual day to say the least. We waited to leave until this morning because the boys had plans last night with their buddies. The funeral was 4 hours away, so that meant getting up at 4:30 AM! Thank heavens I had my wits with me and showered last night and got the girls’ clothes picked out. I had the boys get their suits out before they went to bed as well. Then this morning, we started out for East Texas. We knew it would be a fun drive, not only because of the length of time, but because the air compressor went out recently in the van and the AC blows nice and hot air. :) This morning, we were blessed with an added treat. It rained for over two hours of our drive. The rain was nice because it helped it be nice and cool. The unfortunate part was that the wipers decided today was a good day to not work. “Jesus take the wheel” took on a whole new meaning this morning! Haha Eventually, the sun came up and the sky quit crying. We made it safe and sound. I couldn’t help but think of how the journey was similar to our trials we go thru in life. How many times are we determined to get to a certain destination while all kinds of forces rise against us? Heavenly Father helped us see thru the rain (trials) just enough to keep forging ahead. Once we go thru the choice part (turn back or keep going), he helps us even more until we can see for ourselves. Then the destination is all that more special to us.

The service was nice. Jake was one of the pall bearers. He was quite nervous, but he did really well. It was quite an honor. After the graveside speech, the pall bearers passed by the casket and placed their white boutonnieres on the casket. It’s probably a normal occurrence, but I haven’t paid enough attention to know. To me, it was a beautiful show of humility and love.

After the funeral, we all went to my Aunt and Uncle’s home for lunch. I ate WAY too much. It was nice to laugh and talk with everyone. Lots of pictures were taken, but I left my camera in the car.  I didn't think we were going to stay as long as we did.  ;)  On the way home, Mike let Jacob drive along the back roads to my Grandparents old homestead. No, the other kids did NOT want to get in the car. Yes, they screamed they were going to die. We made them get in the car anyways!  Haha  Jake did a good job, though. I think his top speed was 20! It brought back memories of me learning to drive along the same dirt roads by Grandmother's house WAY too long ago.  :)  It was really odd how much the old home had grown older. Of course, I haven’t aged at all! Yeah, right! ;) We just walked around the old house and it was as if I was 10 again, hanging out with my cousin Ashley. I really miss him sometimes. Grandmother gets to see him, though. She gets to see Aunt Joan and Mama Parish (my great-grandmother) as well. I’m sure Grandmother is enjoying catching up with them.

On the way home, we were able to have some pretty great discussions with Jake and Josh about death and how to live your life. It’s amazing to me how teaching moments place themselves in the most inopportune times. For me, at least, it’s when I’m super tired or needing to get twelve other things taken care of that the kids come looking for help and guidance. On the way home, we were stuck in a car and super tired. What a great time for learning more about their characters and helping give them insight to making their journey thru life a little less roller coaster like. :)

All in all, I would call the day a super success. :)