today's the day

And boy, tired.

Yesterday was a marathon session: the four hours of scheduled visitation turned more into 6 (we did get about an hour's break for some chow), as the crowds just kept piling in. I was thinking that we scheduled too much time, but I forgot how popular of a man my grandfather was: he knew everyone in town, and it seemed like mostly everyone had come by for a visit.

We are starting to get wound up for the funeral today. I'm doing everything except the final committal at the gravesite. Writing out the homily was pretty tough, so any extra prayers would be greatly appreciated.

Two special notes of thanks:

1) Fr. Pat Sloneker, pastor here in Botkins, did a wonderful job of leading the family through the planning of the funeral. He asked all the right questions, was very kind to Grandma especially, and help us all to make the appropriate decisions.

2) While there was a large mass of flowers at the funeral home (having visited the Biltmore estate last week, it seemed we were in the running for 'most flowers' distinction), one small bouquet was very kind, simply signed 'The Bloggers.' It never occurred to me that starting this little project would result in good friendships from around the country. I was deeply touched by your thoughts and prayers. Thank you.