My FIL died, and we went home to be there for all the services and such. It was a very touching moving experience. Sad and emotional. I loved that old goat. He was a handful but I always found a soft spot under his armor.

I must have kissed a thousand faces, and hugged twice as many. I dont know the exact count, but each guest book holds 100 signatures, and we were a couple of pages into the 4th book by the time the night was done. We went to momma's house and ate, and cried some more.

The funeral service the next morn was two full rooms, and then a looooong procession to the cemetary. grave side hugs, kisses, and well wishes, and then onto the restaurant to eat till we were ready to pop.

Say what you will, the Italians know how to go out in style! It was wonderful to see how loved he was by so many that you would have thought him long forgotten. Old co workers, Old neighbors that had long since moved, old friends of the family that moved off, or just got busy.

I am glad to be home, and quite touched by it all. Momma said she isnt afraid to be alone, and for most of her life was in charge of caring for children. Then in charge of caring for a sick father, then in charge of a sick mother, then in charge of a sick husband. Now she is looking forward to not being in charge of anyone but herself. I was so proud of her! Way to go mom! We invited her to come live with us, as did other kids, but she has refused. I hope she travels. I hope she gets out of the house.

Thanks for all the love and support, and prayers sent in the direction of this family. it was greatly appreciated.

Sounds like a wonderful send off.

It's nice when a sad occasion like a funeral can also be a happy time to remember the good times and reflect on how much someone was loved.

I hope your MIL has many years of happy times and spoils herself.....she deserves it.

Wow, what a nice celebration of his life with a great family and circle of friends. I'm glad you were able to be there. I agree that Momma should maybe travel and do lots of nice things for herself. Thanks for sharing with us Dej.