The weekend is over.
Thank you for all the kind notes about the passing of 'Ed'. It turned out to be a wonderful celebration of the mans life, I expected no less. I am part of a great family that pulls together not only at times like these but all the time. They are a terrific bunch that really know the meaning of family.
I heard funny stories that I hadn't heard before and thats hard to do considering I've been around this family for the last thirty years. We laughed, we cried and we were so touched to see not only our friends but people that we hadn't seen in twenty years show up to pay their respects. It was a sad but yet wonderful couple of days.
As in most larger families there are always a few that take on more responsibility than others and in this case it was the youngest, Matt and Susan. I'm not sure how that happens because they all love their folks but certain ones always end up carrying the load in every family. First of all, I don't know what we would have done without Matt. He was the closest logistically and spent a part of every single day for the last year at my in-laws house helping with Ed's physical care, all the Dr. appts, etc. and was a rock to his Mother. Then there's Susan who lives in the Boston area, she flew in regularly and spent extended weekends with her Mom and Dad and made the countless phone calls with Dr's, therapists, etc. There she was coordinating all from her post in Boston...she handled it flawlessly. I wanted to acknowledge them publicly for that because a simple thank you just doesn't seem enough. Thank you Matt and Susan, your parents and all of us will NEVER forget what you've done and how much that meant to each and every one of us.
So long Ed!

It is wonderful when a funeral is a Celebration of their Life. So many things to make you laugh and remember.
Alison
Posted by:Alison Gibbs | January 14, 2008 at 04:15 PM
I just saw the post about the passing of your father-in-law. My heart goes out to your family. I just lost my mother December 6. I'm so glad there was an uplifting service for him.
Posted by:Deborah | January 14, 2008 at 09:08 PM
What a touching tribute not only to your Father-in-law but to your Brother-in-law and Sister-in-law. Very gracious and thoughtful of you to acknowledge what they did for love.
Take care.
Laurie S.
Posted by:Laurie S. | January 14, 2008 at 09:25 PM
I agree with Laurie S. I am very glad that the funeral was a celebration of your fil's life which made it special and meaningful for everyone.
Posted by:Maureen | January 15, 2008 at 04:17 PM
Hi Lisa,
Just wanted to say again how sorry I am.
What a nice tribute. It's good to have a great family.
Rosemary
Posted by:Rosemary | January 15, 2008 at 09:49 PM
catching up here and sending my sympathies for the loss of Ed and also my congratulations on the wedding. hoping he was able to celebrate their happiness with you. wishing you a happy new year, Lisa! xoC
Posted by:charlotte | January 16, 2008 at 07:35 AM
I'm sorry to hear of the passing of Ed. Things are never easy in times like these. My prayers are with you.
Posted by:Michelle Anderson | January 17, 2008 at 10:28 AM
What a wonderful blessing it all turned out to be. I know it is bittersweet but not everyone has such love when they die. Love Clarice
Posted by:clarice | January 17, 2008 at 04:26 PM
I'm so sorry about the passing of your father in law. He looks like such a kind and gentle guy. I'm so glad that you were able to celebrate his life. Sounds like he enjoyed it to the fullest.
I will be keeping your family in my prayers.
Take Care!
Sheila
Posted by:Sheila | January 29, 2008 at 11:57 AM
Oh Lisa I am so very sorry to read about your father-in-law passing away. It is so very hard when we loose a loved one. You and your family are in my thoughts and paryers!
One a lighter note:
I'm having a Valentine banner give-a-way. Please stop by blog & leave a comment if you would like to enter.. Thanks :-}~Mary~IsabellasCloset
Posted by:IsabellasCloset | January 30, 2008 at 03:50 PM
God Bless Denise Boston
Posted by:Denise Fontaine | January 31, 2008 at 10:27 AM
Hmmm? no I don't know who posted my pink bike Thank You for letting me know..Denise
Posted by:Denise Fontaine | January 31, 2008 at 07:34 PM
Lisa:
I haven't heard from you in a while and hope you are doing okay.
I understand how difficult the last month has been, just wanted you to know we miss you in bloggyland.
Lisa xo
Knitty, Vintage and Rosy
Posted by:Lisa | February 13, 2008 at 08:52 AM