November in California - #2

Our beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother was laid to rest on November 10. In keeping with her wishes, we had a simple graveside service. The men of the family carried her to her resting place next to Dad, while her daughters read scripture. Kathy read Proverbs 31:10-31, which described our mom. Nancy, our sister-in-law, whom Mom called her fourth daughter - and who spent countless hours reading scripture to Mom, read Psalm 91, one of Mom's favorites. Cheryl and I read Psalm 23 and I read Psalm 24, again some of Mom's favorite scriptures. Her great-granddaughter, Baylee, sang "Amazing Grace". Mom had asked Baylee to sing it for her when she visited just three days before her passing. It was very sweet. Fitting words from Jamee and Todd's pastor were spoken and we did our best to honor her Lord and Savior and honor her.

I am blessed with the greatest siblings: Steve (Lisa), Cheryl (John), Kathy, Joel (Nan). Thanks to Mom and Dad for raising us to have a deep love and respect for each other!

Mom (and Dad) had nine grandchildren. Those who were able to honor their grandmother were:  Jeremy (Renee), Jeff (Caroline), Julie (Todd), Jamee (Todd), Brett, and Luke - in front. Dax, Ty, and DeNae were not able to travel to California and they were missed tremendously.

22 great-grandchildren benefited from Mom's continual prayers! Maddie, Jordyn, Lauren, Cole, Ty, Katelyn, Allison, Owen (as well as Baylee and Jenna) celebrated her life. Chloe, Matt, Dylan, Caroline, Riley, Aiden, Nolan, and DeLaney live out of  state were not able to attend.

Lauren, Ty, Baylee - lovely girls - inside and out.

Jordyn, Lauren, Ty, Allison, Katelyn - beautiful second cousins.

Jenna, Jamee and Todd. Sweet!

Maddie and Renee. More sweetness!

Owen. What a great little kid!

Baylee, Cole, Brett, Caroline. Lots of love and hugs going on!

Caroline, Jeremy and Joel. Greatness.

Maddie made herself right at home in Aunt Kathy's little leather chair. She sat in it just like she does in her little leather chair at her home. She likes to say, "Taking a load off!" Funny little girl.

What a wonderful day we had sharing memories and truly enjoying each others' company. We miss Mom more than we can say and think of her often. My sibs and I all have thought of things we wanted to share with her and then realize she's gone from us. Not uncommon, I suppose, but sad nevertheless.

We treasured our time together, and as Nan prayed, we are committed to staying "tight".