We put the "fun" in funeral...

...Okay, okay, I know that sounds awful. But whatever else my mom was she was never average or boring, and she wanted her funeral to be a celebration. So it seems very appropriate that she would have her funeral on a holiday. She made every holiday a magic occasion, and she loved nothing better than an excuse to get everyone together and eat and talk and laugh. Everything went perfectly, everyone who gave a talk or preformed a musical number expressed a blend of sorrow at her passing and the hope and comfort that the knowledge of the gospel gives us. The hardest part of the day came for me at the graveside when my children finally realized that Mima was going into the ground. Evie was very concerned that grandma would get dirty when they buried her, and Jake just broke down crying. He was comforted when I told him that in the spring we would come back and have picnics "with" Mima, just like we used to.

After naps to recuperate emotionally and physically, we met up with some family and friends and went to dinner to celebrate Valentine's Day and Brian's 37th birthday.

Brian and his "Sweet Heart"

I'm not certain, but I think Jake liked his valentine present...

Josh and his lobster, "El Guapo"

It was a nice way to end this particular Valentine's day, good food, good company, lots of laughter and love. Mom, I will always remember what you said to me this last Christmas when I was having a hard time wanting to celebrate, "Go make some magic for your family." We will keep that spirit alive, and look for ways to make everyday an adventure.