Monday, August 11, 2008

Something Meaningful

We just got back from spending several days with my family in the Bay Area. We had two very special reasons to celebrate over the weekend. Saturday was my cousin's wedding. Sunday was the celebration of my Grandma's life. It was pretty amazing the way the two occasions could share one weekend - but truly stay separate. Both were joyful in different ways.

The wedding was fabulous and tons of FUN! It took place in my aunt and uncles beautifully landscaped backyard and the weather was perfect (I'm not bitter... I swear!). I helped my mom decorate about 300 cupcakes to use as the cake for their garden themed wedding. I loved every minute of it - but if I never see another cupcake in my life, I'll be okay with that! It's always so awesome to have an excuse to be with my wonderful family. :)



For my Grandma's memorial, we sat in the shade of a big tree, in the same beautiful yard where my cousin had her wedding the day before. A wedding she hoped to attend (and we think she did). A picture collage of my Grandma throughout her years was propped before us and several people shared stories and memories. The commemoration concluded with playing her favorite song - Mr. Bojangles. As we sat in silence, listening to the music and thinking of my Grandma, a breeze suddenly swooped in. It circled all around and caused her pictures to flutter. I know it was my Grandma Jayne - dancing to her song and breathing freely. Something she hasn't been able to do for several years.

She left a wonderful mark on my life and I will be forever grateful :)

5 comments:

Alex said...

How beautiful, Hailey. I didn't even know Grandma Jayne had died. I'm sending lots of love to you and your family. Give your mom a big hug for me. Also, you should post a picture of the cupcakes. I've been wondering about those since last summer when you told me you were going to make them!

Unknown said...

Ooops... I bet you could tell that the last message was from me and not Alex. I'm using his computer. He does send his love, of course!

Unknown said...

I thought those were flowers! The pictures are a bit small, but DAMN! You two did an amazing job.

P.s. Alex also wanted to see the cupcakes.

McDolan said...

H, I am sorry that your grandma died- I am sure she is in peace right now.

Marty and Jenny said...

Sending you and your family lots of love! I'm so sorry for your loss. What a neat experience though at the funeral. Grandma Jayne is definately dancing now!