Sad Day

Today was a sad day, our good friend John’s mother passed away a few days ago and today was the funeral. We’ve known her for several years and even though she spoke very little English, we have always enjoyed visiting with her.  Nona always had a kind smile on her face and always welcomed everyone with open arms and big hugs.

Shelli and I were not sure how Zoe would do in this situation but she assured us she wanted to go and say her ‘goodbyes’. This was Zoe’s first funeral – I’m sorry, I take that back, she went to Shelli’s grandmother’s but she was only five months old, and she doesn’t remember it. This was the first funeral that she could ‘understand’. The plan was to get to the church right after the viewing and stay for the service and burial. When we got there, they were still doing the viewing, so we had Zoe sit and wait for us while Shelli and I went up to pay our respects. John’s mom looked peaceful and beautiful. When he saw us, he grabbed us a hugged us as tight as he possibly could. We all were crying together. It’s hard not to when you see someone you love in so much pain and you know there isn’t anything you can say to make it better. We just hugged and cried, no words, just love!

After the service, it was a long drive to the cemetery, and Zoe was quiet and a little sad.  We asked her how she felt and if she understood everything. We’ve had many meals, and laughs with Nona so naturally we knew Zoe would be sad.  Come to find out, she was upset because we didn’t let her go up to see Nona. We told her she could have, but we didn’t think she would want to. When we pulled into the cemetery, it was beautiful. The grounds were covered with snow and it felt very peaceful.  Flowers were given to everyone, and after the priest said a few words and the final prayer, we all put flowers on the casket. I think it gave Zoe some closure and feel at peace that she was able to leave a flower and say goodbye.

Following the interment, everyone was invited to have lunch at a local Italian restaurant. Everyone gathered and shared their fondest stories of Nona. It was a hard and emotional day. John and his family were very close knit, and always doing things together and welcoming everyone. I am grateful to have known Nona. She was a wonderful woman who will be missed dearly. (She even taught me a few words in Italian!)