We had a beautiful day for the funeral. The floral tributes were here at the Newsams so we had to go across to Coral Ridge before 9.00 to set up for the family viewing. Jean and Deanna had spent most of the previous day making elaborate arrangements. They had chosen yellows and oranges and the tributes were quite spectacular. At 9.00 a.m. the family members gathered. The casket was open at that time; Jean was not taking any chances about having the wrong body. Juliet was beautifully made up; would compete with any make-over on a realty show. While my siblings oohed 'how beautiful she looks;' I muttered I'm sure she would wash her face, if she could. It was this disconnect which kept my eyes dry. I placed a rose, a beautiful yellow specimen, in her hand for my absent children.
By special request, the attendees were asked not to wear mourning clothes so the occasion took on a festive air. I was rather flamboyant in a red and white skirt and white bodice. The church was full, though not crammed. Friends of all 'the children' came. Absent friends were represent by their offspring and some of Juliet's contemporizes, their bodies bent and twisted by age, were assisted into the church. I mourned the vibrant adults I knew as I hugged and thanked these old friends for whom it was have been a strenuous effort to attend.
A retired Anglican cleric officiated. He did a reasonable job and managed to make it personal in spite of not knowing Juliet's life. He had been a satisfied customer of Laurie Dash. Kevin was spectacular in his delivery of the eulogy, the congregation was laughing. He was followed by Kim, who wanted to speak. Tessa read the gospel and a staff member from Laurie Dash sang. She did a soulful/jazzy rendition of Bridge Over Troubled Waters. Her voice had a rootsy quality, which I liked. The other songs in the service were Amazing Grace and Morning Has Broken.
The family went to Jean's & Douglas' home after the service. I had been assigned the catering and so was very busy keeping the table full. We had ham cutters and chicken/vegetable soup. We sat around and chatted and reminisced. I last guest left around 5.30 and I was knackered. I had been up cooking since 5.00 a.m.
By special request, the attendees were asked not to wear mourning clothes so the occasion took on a festive air. I was rather flamboyant in a red and white skirt and white bodice. The church was full, though not crammed. Friends of all 'the children' came. Absent friends were represent by their offspring and some of Juliet's contemporizes, their bodies bent and twisted by age, were assisted into the church. I mourned the vibrant adults I knew as I hugged and thanked these old friends for whom it was have been a strenuous effort to attend.
A retired Anglican cleric officiated. He did a reasonable job and managed to make it personal in spite of not knowing Juliet's life. He had been a satisfied customer of Laurie Dash. Kevin was spectacular in his delivery of the eulogy, the congregation was laughing. He was followed by Kim, who wanted to speak. Tessa read the gospel and a staff member from Laurie Dash sang. She did a soulful/jazzy rendition of Bridge Over Troubled Waters. Her voice had a rootsy quality, which I liked. The other songs in the service were Amazing Grace and Morning Has Broken.
The family went to Jean's & Douglas' home after the service. I had been assigned the catering and so was very busy keeping the table full. We had ham cutters and chicken/vegetable soup. We sat around and chatted and reminisced. I last guest left around 5.30 and I was knackered. I had been up cooking since 5.00 a.m.
