My Dad's Memorial Celebration:
My dad's memorial celebration was held this weekend. It was an immediate family event, so there were just twelve of us. They all stayed at the house because there was a couple of events going on in town that had all the hotel rooms booked. It was crowded, and some of the accommodations weren't ideal, but I'm glad it happened that way. It was wonderful having everyone to support one another during the entire weekend.
The actual memorial was Friday evening. It wasn't formal, just various family members sharing their thoughts and memories, and finishing with the Miller Lite toast (my dad's beer of choice). A lot of remembering went on all weekend, and I think it was good for us all to be together for more than just the scheduled time for the memorial. We laughed and we cried. Before my dad's death, we'd had this group to the house for semi-yearly family reunions, which were basically big parties--quite a few beer connoisseurs in the family, my dad included. So the party tradition had to continue for the memorial too. Beer and guitar playing. The group really got going, belting out the words to "Cover of the Rolling Stone". Dr. Hook didn't have anything on us. My dad would have loved it.
Back to the Move:
This morning, we'll turn all of our energies once again toward the move. Packing will begin in earnest, and we'll make preparations for the garage sale scheduled for weekend after next. Although I enjoy visiting garage sales, I'm really not a fan of having them. But how else do you get rid of all the miscellaneous crap you've gathered through the years? The moving truck is coming November 1st, and time really seems short now.
The memorial sounds like a just and fitting tribute to your Dad. I think it was meant to be that you all dossed down in the same house. Nothing like a few toasts and stories to honour the memory of someone very special.
ReplyDeleteThe time between now and the move will fly. I;m thinking of you and being glad I dont have to do it! I'd hate to think of what we've collected over the years that hasnt seen the light of day in years. (I mean Mr. P because I am not a hoarder!)
Much love for Shel Silverstein AND Dr. Hook. It sounds like quite the hoedown and I'm glad you had a nice time. I look forward to having a nice time with you myself. November 1st? Tick-Tock!
ReplyDeleteI too think it was meant to be the way the memorial happened; all of you at the house. And Dr. Hook........... :)
ReplyDeleteThe days will go too fast for you this month; a lot to do and organize - wishing you good luck!
It sounds like a meaningful, memorable time remembering your dad in the way he would have wanted you to.
ReplyDeleteGood luck on the garage sale and getting things ready for the move!
Being squeezed together with loved ones is the best way to remember you Dad's passing! I enjoyed the song, too :-}
ReplyDeleteAnd moving? Ugh! I've just spent time doing that for a friend, and 2 years ago when we bought this house, I said the clearing out the house accumulation was one of the hardest things I've done in recent years. You have my heart.
But, boy it is freeing, no kidding.
I was going to say something here, it is to personal so I sent it to you in an e-mail.
ReplyDeleteHugs to you all.
Your Dad's memorial service sounds perfect Michelle. I'm sure he would have been very happy with it. You are in my thoughts!
ReplyDeletexo, Karen
What a wonderful way to remember your Dad. And the best is always to spend it with family - it just brings everybody closer.
ReplyDeleteBest of luck with the final prep work for the move. Now it is crunch time!
Elzaan
A lovely way to remember your Dad, and fabulous to have many family members there.
ReplyDeleteI'm thinking of you with the move and hope all goes well. Best of luck.
what a great way to remember your dad. you have a lot going on in your life. Hope all goes smoothly for you.
ReplyDelete