Oh Mama… you wanted a celebration.
We needed time. We pushed pause and allowed ourselves to feel. It’s been tough. I hear you telling me “it is what it is. Give yourself to three, then the pity party is over and you put on your big girl pants!” You always made that look easier than it is. You always moved forward, an embodiment of Carole King’s words, “you’ve got to get up every morning with a smile on your face and show the world all the love in your heart. Then people gonna treat you better, you’re gonna find, yes you will, that you’re beautiful as you feel.” I think that’s always been your super power, Mom. You smile. You just smile.
You wanted a celebration.
We needed your strength and we found it with each other. We gathered. Family and friends swirled around us, lifted us. Stories were shared, woven together, creating a richer more complete tapestry. Most of your secrets are safe. Your people are loyal, Mama! Yes, there were tears. But there were more laughs. You would have loved the bustle.
You wanted a celebration.
We needed to surround ourselves with you-photos of you, your colors, flowers, your spinning wheel, the pearls you gave me, your songs, your sloggers, your yellow tea pot, your t-shirts, spice drops and peanuts in candy dishes.
You wanted a celebration.
We needed to be in your spaces. At Midwest Breakfast Company, I sat on your side of the booth and I didn’t like it. I felt like ordering combo crepes (whipped cream on the side) but we both know I can’t pass up their good morning skillet. And at St. Peter’s, I walked to the choir loft. I gazed out of the big round window and then down at the pews. How many Sundays did your feet make the climb up that skinny stairway? How many people listed to your voice? We chose some of your favorite hymns. I closed my eyes and I could hear you. Hear I am, Lord. Is it I Lord?
You wanted a celebration.
We needed your words.
“When the good Lord calls me home… I will be blessed beyond measure, just as my life has been! It has been a journey for me of ups and downs- sometimes a roller coaster ride where you hang on for dear life! It has been a joy being with all of you. Fun and laughter and being crazy are all good things! I wish for A VERY JOYFUL DAY OF CELEBRATION… I know that I will live on in the hearts of my family and friends… and that I will be honored into my home in Heaven!
May the wind be always at your back…!!!”
We celebrate you, Mama 
