Another emotional week has gone by as we had the service and burial for papa. I believe he is looking down on his family proudly for how the week went. Lots of tears, hugs, and stories from so many friends and family. It's so sad that sometimes the only time you connect with family is via funerals, but in today's busy world that's the way it is. So blessed that papa's elderly aunt made the journey from New York to be with us. They grew up together (only a few years apart) - so good to have one of her hugs.
We had a wonderful buffet lunch at a local restaurant. They did a wonderful job for for having just a couple of days to put it together. We had a private space and designated staff. The food was delicious and we were able to talk and catch up.
I heard from so many people this past week about what a great man papa was and how helpful he was to his neighbors. Papa was a humble man with a fun sense of humor. He was a chauffeur not only to mema for several years, but for some of the elderly ladies in the area. He would plow driveways in the winter or arrange for landscaping to be done at other homes. He never asked for anything and sometimes would not admit that he arranged it. We were advised at the service that the Friendship Club in this community will rename the kitchen after papa as he cooked breakfasts and dinners there for so many years.
I have to say papa guided me in many ways this past week. As I tried to work on a short eulogy and the computer kept freezing or words would be deleted. I guess it was too long or I was bragging about him too much. Either way, I finally got the hint and said, guess I'll have to wing it. On Wednesday morning as I got ready and was in my head, he made the light blink again so I knew I was on the right track. Since then there have been no signs so I presume I did the right thing.
The hardest part of the week for me was the burial on Friday. We had beautiful weather with a clear blue sky and warm sun (the kind of day papa would appreciate). We had an Honors burial which included the presentation of the Flag and Taps played. My nephew's friend arranged for a bagpiper and he played three beautiful songs. The only thing papa always talked about was ensuring he received his flag. It was ironic that a lone plane flew over at the appropriate moment (although not planned). I looked at it as a wink as papa studied and practiced to obtain his pilot's license when his vision failed.
I spent parts of the week making notifications and getting paperwork in order. I have to say, so far everyone whom I've spoken with was very helpful and polite. I have a few more things to do, but at least I feel somewhat accomplished.
Although I did not spend as much time with mema as I wanted to I was getting reports from staff. She was quiet most of the week. She has not asked or mentioned papa since his passing. Her appetite has been a bit off. I'll get back on schedule this week so hopefully that will help.
A big shout out to my best friends Patti and Donna for staying close this week. We actually had a wonderful afternoon yesterday in Plymouth Harbor with my sister. Then we had a sleepover last night. So nice to relax with friends.
Thank you to all of you who have reached with cards, letters, phone calls. I will get back to all of you at some point. I am in a good place emotionally and spiritually. I wear my stones/angels and I believe it's helped tremendously.
I am going to end it here for today. Believe it or not there is a homeowners meeting today in this community so thought I would represent papa to hear what is happening in the community. I hope you have a good week where you are. My thoughts and prayers are with Texas and Florida - for my friends and families in both places, please be safe. Take care. Chat soon. Marie
"Never apologize for being sensitive or emotional. Let this be a sign that you’ve got a big heart and aren’t afraid to let others see it. Showing your emotions is a sign of strength." Unknown.
"You Were Given This Life Because You Are Strong Enough To Live It." Unknown
"Whenever You Find Yourself Doubting How Far You Can Go, Just Remember How Far You Have Come. Remember Everything You Have Faced, All The Battles You Have Won, And All The Fears You Have Overcome." Unknown