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| Julianne Dunning Eddy |
Our visit in Arizona was for a sad reason, but we actually had a great time. Guggy would have wanted it that way. Since we got to AZ with time to spare before the funeral, we enjoyed a few days in Payson first. We saw Pat and Ted's wonderful new house, went for a few walks, and managed to take the canoes out for a little spin up by the Rim. AZ never disappoints with the amazing views, picturesque lakes, and breathtaking scenery.
After a few days in the mountains, we were ready to go to Scottsdale to see the rest of the family. It has been a long time since we have seen that much of John's family in one place. Come to think of it, we haven't seen that many Eddys since our wedding in 2007! They had lots of catching up to do. There was laughter, tears, and lots (and I mean lots) of storytelling. Never a dull moment with John's family!
Julie hosted a fantastic visitation service. It was funny, smart, and sweet. Guggy looked so peaceful laying in her casket. We were waiting on her to sit up and join the party. On Sunday evening, we had gathered at the Hancock home to break bread and visit. This turned into a movie set that was later revealed at the visitation. I truly believe Julie might have missed her calling as a film maker. The video tribute was cute, creative, and a labor of love. I say labor because she stayed up most of the night editing all of her Iphone footage. If I were more tech savvy, I would have the video on this blog.. Check out mine or John's facebook to watch the tribute.
The funeral Mass on Tuesday was hard. Funerals are always hard. It is hard to watch your loved ones cry and it is also like putting salt in a wound for me. Did I mention we are both criers? I used to not cry much, but the older I get the more I cry. John is the same way. We cry at the drop of the hat, and we have an unspoken rule...kind of like on Steel Magnolias. "Nobody cries alone in my presence!" If one of us is crying, I promise, we are both crying! I find myself crying in Church sometimes. Don't ask why, but hymns can just tug at my heart sometimes. "Do not be afraid" was sung at my mom's funeral, so my water hose tears just turned on immediately when that was sung at Guggy's. The responsorial psalm, "Shepherd me O God beyond my wants, beyond my fears from death into light" was also sung at my grandmother's funeral Mass in March. It is my Uncle's favorite and he specifically requested that particular one.. Needless to say, it was personal for me. Not only because I loved Guggy, but because these songs truly say what I believe, and they remind me of the most special people in my life. Guggy is in good company.
Aunt Mike planned the funeral, and it was perfect. The chapel was the perfect size, the music, as previously mentioned, was superb and the Mass readings were spot on. Now, the homily, delivered by the angelic Father Tom was "lights out"! It was the perfect mix of reflections of Guggy, the promises of Heaven, and the beauty of the Eucharist. What wisdom he shared with us all! You could hear a pin drop, and I caught myself nodding in agreement! I think everyone else really enjoyed it as well because you could sense the Holy Spirit doing miracles in that room.
Guggy gave John his faith, and that was one of the main things that attracted me to John when we first met. I knew he wasn't always a devout Catholic as a young adult, but I knew the seed had been planted. So, thank you Guggy for instilling the most precious gift in your grandson because I am now enjoying the fruits of your labor. If it hadn't been for you, we probably wouldn't be married today! I owe ya...
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| The Cousins & Father Tom |
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| Father Tom's Video Tribute-enough said! |
