Saying Goodby and Hello

So Sunday we fly out east for the viewing and the funeral. Everything went pretty well from a traveling perspective, travel will have its own entry. So we get there and head out to the town where the viewing was to be held. We have plenty of time, so hey I know where I am going around here....let's get a bite to eat first. Although we didn't exactly take a direct path to get there we head over to Giovanni's. There is just something about mourning and eating they have always gone hand and hand. After much stalling then we head over to the viewing:

Now it is here that it dawn's on me that this is a crazy tradition really, I mean seriously. It is always done this way, we get together and 'view' the loved-one that we have just lost. Well it is both painful but also I suppose it does put everything in context as well. I suppose I just didn't like to see him like that, it was very difficult to see him in there. Discussing this with friends, the light bulb goes on. He is not there! That is the point here, as the phrase goes 'Absent from the body, present with the Lord'.

Thank you to Randy and family, they were gracious hosts that evening and I'm so grateful.

Tried to get some needed sleep, ya that is just not going to happen yet. So I'm back up early again, get ready, get the fellas and head out. Here we go this is going to be a tough day. Yet it was also an amazing day. Our guesses range between 200 - 300 people are there to say goodbye to our friend (friend, family, father, mentor, leader.... he was obviously these and more to so many people). It really strikes me as amazing to see so many people all gathered for the same reason. At the service his daughter sings and it is absolutely beautiful, the weather is beautiful as we walk along with the procession out to the cemetery. The Scout troop that had been such a large part of his life retires their flag and I believe this was given to his wife. Point being I was not only a mess for the obvious reasons but also due to this amazing demonstration of love and respect.

The day goes by so quickly it really is a blur, after work many of us head out to toast to our friend. Good turn out, good friends.... it was good. Now this group of folks, there is so much to be said about them as well... thanks everyone.