Friday, April 25, 2008

Grampa's funeral

 
 Ok... only a moment to say we are leaving for Los Angeles... Today is the viewing and Rosary... After the viewing we are all going to PF Changs for some dinner...
Pam [Sam's cousin] came down last night to stay with us, then go to L.A. with us... I am so happy she is here... it helps...
_________________________________________________________
I wrote that before we left however I never had a chance to post it... it was crazy trying to get outta here and get to the beach...
I will tell you all about it in the next few days...
But I just wanted to say... I DID IT... I stood up and talked at the funeral and I wish to God I could remember it! All I remember is my legs shaking so bad, all I wanted was for them to stop!
I am happy to tell you...about 20 people came up to me afterwards and said they LOVED my story about Grampa! I started to cry at the beginning but I stopped delivered the speech
 
and cried during the last few lines...

"I just wanted to say he was the best Grandfather any kid could ask for... he rode motorcycles with them until he was 82, skied Big Bear with them, took them hiking down the Grand Canyon, and never missed a birthday, 1st Holy Communion, Confirmation or any other important occasion...
 
and he was the best father in law I ever could have asked for...
 
I am gonna miss you Dad..."
 
I remember Pam [sam's cousin clapping and my hubby hugging me saying he was so proud of me]
 
I have to go now because I am SO tired... exhausted...
 
Thanks Guys... You were there with me... I felt it... Thank you for giving me the courage to do it!
 
Thank you for being the best cheering section this girl could ever ask for... I love you guys!!!
 
The memory board I made
The Viewing before Mass - See the two flower arrangements I ordered... one said Grampa and the other said Dad...
they did a great job on flowers huh?
 
 
Me saying my speech today during his funeral Mass
 

7 comments:

Anonymous said...

You DID it !! I am so proud of you girl. May he rest in peace...

Ellen

Anonymous said...

I have been thinking about you ALL WEEK but I didn't want to call you with so much going on.  I am SO PROUD of you for having the stength and courage to stand up there and speak about "grandpa."  You will never forget it.

Hang in there my friend and try and relax and recuperate a little.

((hugs))
Jeanne

Anonymous said...

Kendra what an awesome tribute and show of respect for your wonderful FIL I know he's smiling down on you. Everything looks just beautiful.
Take care and Hugs, Chrissie

Anonymous said...

I'm proud of you.  I know it was hard for you to get up there but once you did I'm sure you heart took over and you were among all the people that were fond of grandpa.  Take care Kendra.

Phil

Anonymous said...

You are so awesome........i am so proud of you and i know Grandpa is looking down smiling from ear to ear.
XOOX LOVE YOU

Anonymous said...

I am so proud of you! I know that was so hard for you to do. Good job!
Pam

Anonymous said...

Awesome I am proud of you !!!

love
Emma