June 27, 2012. Ancaster, Ontario. Families.

The only good part of a funeral is the gathering of the clan. Family members are flying in from hither and yon to celebrate the life of Carol. Tonight we had our first dinner with family members that I have not seen since our 50th anniversary celebration in Nova Scotia. We toasted Carol and enjoyed sharing stories. My son David flew in from San Antonio. He spent several summers at Carol and Ken's cottage when he was an early teen. And Wendy my niece joined us for dinner and Diane the wife of a nephew. And all the Ontario friends and relatives will be in Owen Sound for the funeral and for the visitations at the funeral home. It is helpful to hear funny stories about Carol and to share in her life with those who loved her. Somehow it eases the burden of sorrow. Being together with friends and relatives with shared memories takes away the sadness for a time. We will celebrate my sister's life, together, and we will do it well. My sister would expect nothing less.