Just over a week ago, on Mom’s 78th birthday weekend, we celebrated her life.
Family and friends, from near and far, came together and it was all that we’d hoped it would be.
We met at the Edmond’s Waterfront Center. A beautiful setting to gather in our shared desire to honor Mom and the full and meaningful life she lived.
Mom’s good friend, Ruby, generously made and gifted these bookmarks.
Eric and Shawn took on the majority of the planning for this event and did a great job!
I made a special slideshow for Mom.
To view it, click here: In Celebration
It was so wonderful to have so many people she loved-and who loved her- all gathered together in one room. Those who got up to speak moved us all. Each person shared something so special. It was such a heartfelt tribute and one we will never forget. Later, even the staff at the event,
who had never met mom told us they were moved to tears.
Han had the great idea of hanging a rope (77 feet long to symbolize each year of Mom’s life) and having everyone tie a piece of fabric (lots of which was my grandmother’s) to the rope to make a garland. As we tied the fabric on he suggested we do it with a wish, an intention, or a prayer. We will hang this garland in her garden at the Mill and it will symbolize how she connected all of us.
We will also tie some more on, to symbolize all who love her but couldn’t be here in person.
What a wonderful symbol of of one of her superpowers: connection!
Our cousin, Dana, brought this special piece of fabric she made (!) to tie on the rope. So beautiful!
(I wasn’t able to take many photos but appreciate those who did and am including some I’ve been sent here so those who couldn’t make it can get a feeling for the day. There are many people who were there who aren’t captured here. I’d love to add photos to this album if anyone has any they took and want to share.).
I will close with a quote that Mom’s childhood friend of over 70 years,
Charlotte, shared when she spoke.
It is a big comfort.
One of my favorite photos of Mom on a whale watching trip in Maui.
❤️
I will keep adding to over time,
as I come across great photos of Mom.
