This past weekend was the memorial service for my grandfather. My dad, his buddies and 2 of my sisters came for the weekend.
Marker and Flowers
I thought I would be just fine during the service since it had been a few months since my grandfather had passed away. But… when the honor guard starting folding the flag and then they started the 21 gun salute, I was a mess.
The remainder of the weekend was spent hanging out with family and friends that are just like family. Lots of stories, a few tears and lots of laughs.
Three Sisters: CJ, Liz and Me
A fun part of the weekend was getting to see, and getting to know, my sisters. We haven’t spent much time together in our lives and I haven’t had much of an opportunity to really get to know them. I saw Liz about 18 months ago but this was the first time I had seen CJ in 11 years. It was so cool to see the type of women they have become, their personalities and their sense of humor. They are both very different and a complete riot. I’m proud to have them as my sisters.
I have one more sister, Kate, who I also haven’t seen in 11 years. I hope that I will have an opportunity to get to know her as well in the coming years.
Anna Grace Takin’ A Snooze
Anna Grace had a blast with Grandpa C, Aunt CJ and Aunt Liz. So much so that she all of a sudden fell asleep on Sunday afternoon. I think we wore ‘er out.
SonnyD
Dana enjoyed getting to know everyone better and just hanging out.
Aunt Cheryl and Dad
This is my favorite picture of the weekend because it truly captures what was going on. While we gathered for something sad, to say good bye, we also spent much of the weekend laughing ourselves silly. My dad had a great time with his friends and it was nice to just be together.
I’m so sorry for your loss….but your pictures show a strong and happy family.
The one of your aunt and dad is especially beautiful.
It sounds like our family reunions on my dh’s side. They have a huge family scattered across the US but we always seem to get together for funerals or weddings. Happy and sad all at teh same time.
Those types of gatherings start because of something sad, but the laughter is how we get through it and through life. I am glad that you could enjoy your family.
Do you happen to have relatives in NY? My dad’s aunt married a Callahan and we have lots of cousins here. His uncle’s name was Morgan and his aunt was Marion. There is a son Tom but I can’t remember the names of the rest of the kids right now.