Love and Family....that's all.

Monday morning came.  The only thing important at that moment was family.
My baby sister, Melinda, owns a dance studio in St. George called Diamond Talent Productions.  My parents have gone to every performance they could over the last 15 or so years.  Her studio was preparing to put on the Opening ceremonies of the Huntsman Senior Games on Tuesday night at Dixie College in St. George.  There was no reason not to go. (Mom would already be there.)  Jana and I took Dad down.  It certainly didn't hurt that Brent lived in Enoch on the way.  We stopped for a quick visit.
   We drove home after the ceremony.
Wednesday was to be special.  My hubby would fly in.  A month is way too long to be apart.  We spent Thursday preparing for the weekend.  First order of business to buy a coat.  I flew into Provo in 90 degree weather.  Thursday morning it snowed!

Friday evening was Mom's viewing.  Such a comfort to be surrounded by so much family and feel the love.  There is such strength in love and family.  It is really true about weddings and funerals.  It is the only time that we gather now.
Judy Hamaker-Mann  (our old neighbor from Price!) had seen my facebook post so looked for the obituary in the paper.  She brought her husband to the viewing and we caught up.  Thanks, Judy.  So many great people and friends.





The funeral was held Saturday morning.  Dad had wanted it to be simple and short.  It was wonderful!  We sang "Families Can Be Together Forever" for the opening hymn.  Charlie gave the opening prayer.  Diane gave the eulogy.  The 8 sisters that had taken care of Mom sang the same 3 songs we had sung to her Sunday afternoon just before she died.  How I love my sisters!!  Brad was the lone speaker.  I can't even begin to tell you how amazing my brother is.  He has been our strength through all this.  He would visit often, correlate care, talk with Dad, offer priesthood blessings, give hugs, and remained our rock.  His message during the funeral was perfect.  Yes, Brad, it is simple.  Service and family.  That IS what Mom lived and taught us.  Mom was one simple, GREAT lady.  The closing hymn was Mom; "Love One Another."  David Card closed with prayer.

Mom wanted to be buried by her parents in the Provo City Cemetary.  How wonderful to have a son from each of the nine families as their grandmother's pallbearers.

It was a bit chilly.  Jeff Murphy dedicated her grave.

We returned to the chapel where the Relief Society had the wonderful ham and funeral potatoes luncheon.  The family numbered over 100.  Dad knew that his brother, Jack, would be there.  He was so surprised and delighted that his sister, Mary, and brother, Bob, were also able to come.  Uncle Albert (baby brother) had come by to see him on Thursday on his way back home to Arizona.

Such a wonderful time to be together.  Love was spoken and shared.  Family.  Yeah.  That's all I need.

Sunday came.  Charlie and I prepared to fly back to Pennsylvania.  Dad said he was ready to begin his 'new normal.'  Melinda and Brian took Dad back to the cemetary to see Mom's grave.  They discovered that there is an angel garden next to her grave.  Even in death my Mom is sourrounded by those she loved so much; children.  Such a legacy you leave, Mom.    Thousands of children who you have loved will continue to pass that love along.  I love you, my sweet, angel mother.