My Mom had always been clear about her wishes to be cremated. That would not have been my first choice for my Mom, but it did work out for the best in the long run. We were able to spend a week planning her Memorial Service, and it was so nice not to be rushed.
My Mom had been bed bound for several years, unable to attend church. However, she loved watching my Sister's church services online every Sunday. My Mom was very fond of Kingsland Baptist, especially the pastor, Ryan Rush. She also loved the music led by Josh Stewart. She would have been thrilled that they were both able to perform her services. What an amazing job they did! Truly, I could not imagine a service more fitting for my Mom. We were able to honor her memory and worship her Savior. It was perfect.
Wade & Jeff took the reigns on the planning and did such a great job. We are so thankful for their hard work! Clayton said a few words about his Gran and prayed the opening prayer. Angel read Scripture for us. Becca, my Uncle Bill, and Wade all gave tributes to my Mom. It was a such a sweet service. I know that my Mom would have been so pleased with everything.
After the service, Becca had the idea to do a balloon release for the kids. They got to send their messages to Gran. It was a neat way for them to say goodbye.
A couple of the balloons got caught in trees/outdoor lighting. Pastor Rush ran and got a long tool to try to set it free. What a sweet man he is! I will never forget him in his dress clothes jumping and tugging and working with all of his might. Pastors shepherd their flock in a multitude of ways - and on that day, getting balloons out of the tree was a wonderful way for him to shepherd us. I'm so grateful for him!
Several of my sweet friends were able to come to be with me. Oh my goodness, their presence meant so much! They drove for hours, arranged childcare while they were gone, and sacrificed family time to hold my hand. I'm so thankful for the tribe of women (these pictured and so many more) that the Lord has been gracious to surround me with in this season. My girlfriends made me feel like I wasn't alone. They held me up, when I felt like I was going to crumble. I just pray and pray that the Lord will give my boys strong friendships. I love, love, love the sweet girlfriends in my life!
Gran's Grands :)
This sweet girl is such a blessing. Having a sweet cooing baby around made this process a little easier. He gives and takes away, for sure. Blessed be the Name.
Thank you to all of our family & friends that dropped all of their Saturday plans to come and celebrate my Mom's life! You have no idea how touched we were by your presence or how honored my Mom would be to know that you went to great lengths for her. We are so, so grateful.
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