The morning after my Grandmother died, we received even more* sad news. Late Saturday night, August 14th, my Uncle Michael, my mom’s youngest brother, also died (the very same day as Grandma) in a motorcycle accident. It was such a shock. On Wednesday the baby and I traveled to California to attend the double funeral. *We had also just learned of my husband’s Uncle Thomas’s death on August 13th.
The funeral was held in the church my parents were married in and Uncle Michael had been the altar boy for their wedding. It was so very hard to say goodbye to Grandma, but absolutely heartbreaking to see my five cousins mourn the loss of their father. They will both be missed dearly!
Even though it was such a sad day, it was also wonderful to see so much of my mom’s family, introduce them all to our little “Rose”, and be able to spend time with my sisters (the twins – JoAnn & Mary) before they leave for college today and tomorrow.
Top Row: Aunt Patty, Rose & I, my sister Julianna
Bottom Row: My sister Mary, cousin Juliana, my sister JoAnn
Immediately following the funeral we headed (9+ plus hours) straight to the coast for my Dad’s Family Reunion/Camping Trip that was scheduled many months ago.
Hubby and the rest of my children arrived earlier in the day, so when we arrived at 12:30am I was able to crawl into my sleeping bag and get some sleep! We had a wonderful time at the coast, and I am sure I will be back soon with some pictures especially considering I can’t do much at the moment since I managed to sprain my ankle on Saturday and am suppose to stay off my feet as much as possible for the next 7-10 days.
As I mentioned to a friend (who will be meeting one of my sisters today!) yesterday, that “light at the end of the tunnel” ended up being a shiny pair of crutches! I am sure things will start to calm down soon (I have a school year yet to plan, and books to order, and September is approaching fast!), but in the meantime I would sure appreciate any prayers you can send our way…
Prayer of Mothers
Father in heaven, grant me the grace to appreciate the dignity which you have conferred on me. Let me realize that not even the Angels have been blessed with such a privilege—to share in your creative miracle and bring new Saints to heaven. Make me a good mother to all my children after the example of Mary, the Mother of your Son. Through the intercession of Jesus and Mary I ask your continued blessings on my family. Let us all be dedicated to your service on earth and attain the eternal happiness of your kingdom in heaven. Amen.
I am so sorry for your losses. You and your family will certainly be in my prayers. It sounds like you had a wonderful trip despite the sprained ankle. I hope it heals soon!
We have been praying for you guys and in fact just finished a rosary for your loved ones.
Take care of yourself!
Thank you both!
Amy ~ Your comment just reminded me of something special that happened just before the funeral. The rosary was about to begin and my mom COULD NOT find her rosary anywhere. (She always has it with her.) Right then my dad walked in with something that my Aunt Teresa had given him that was left to my mom from Grandma. . . Her Rosary! It was such beautiful timing.
I will continue praying for you and your family during this challenging time, especially since a little over two years ago we lost my maternal grandmother, my mother's brother, and my husband's grandfather within two months time. It was so hard to face all that loss and change all at once. May Our Lady comfort you!
I am sorry for your family's loss-we will be praying,and please be careful with your ankle. Wishing you a beautiful August week !
~Emma
So Sorry to hear, Jessica. Bless you and your family. We'll keep you in our prayers here.
Oh my gosh! That is just terrible news about your Uncle. What a tragedy for the family and for his siblings. It was painful enough to lose my father, (who was much younger than your grandma), I cannot imagine losing a sibling on the same day nor so young in life.
WE will be praying for you all!
Praise God for the crutches!
Praying , Jessica,
You are a blessing to your family, I am so sorry for your recent losses. God bless,
I am sorry for your family's lost. My prayers are with you all.
God bless!
So sorry about your family's double loss. God bless your family.
I am so sorry for all the loss in the families. Our prayers are definitely with you. They say things come in threes…
I am so sorry for your losses. Keeping you and all your family in prayer.
Jessica{{{{}}}}
Words cannot express my sorrow for you{{}}
I'm so sorry for your losses. What a hard month it has been for you and your families.
Blessings and prayers coming your way.
Jessica – you (and family) are in our thoughts and prayers. I love the title you gave your post. "Saying Goodbye for Now" – that sums it up. Joyful times ahead.
Praying for a speeding recovery. Crutches sure get old fast. Especially when trying to change a diaper or chase after a toddler!
Jessica….keeping you and your family in my thoughts and prayers. Hang in there….and STAY OFF THAT ANKLE!
I'm so sorry for your losses. Sending much love and many prayers.
I'm so sorry for your losses. Praying for you all.
Jessica, please know that you and your family are in my prayers.
Hugs and prayers for your losses! Praise God for your big family and big faith:-) Hang in there and know you are being showered with love. May Mother Mary drape her mantle around you and hold you close.
My heart is full at the thought of your losses and I am so sorry to read of them. May God bless each and all of you during this time of loss and heartache. You & your mom and your uncle's and all families are in my prayers. PJ
Dear Jessica,
Just catching up now.
So sorry to hear of your losses.
WE can only offer our prayers and love
God bless you and your whole family
Gae ♥
May your sorrow be met with His love and comfort and. Praying for heaven for the faithful departed.