A Day of Sisterhood

 Today is one of those difficult days when we come together as Sisters in Friendship to honor and celebrate the life of one we've lost.  It says so much for sweet Paula - as sooo many came to pay their respects.  I am going to choose to keep with the word "celebrate" as we have had several weeks of sadness and this would not make our friend happy.

Leaving the house fairly early and making a stop in Hurst to pick up Debi, we meet up with about half of the quilt gals for lunch in Gatesville.   Y'all need to understand something here -- check a map --- we have hit a LOT of the state.  Port Arthur, Spring, San Antonio, Lorena, Colorado Springs, Abilene, Dallas, Cleburne, Hurst, and Irving in this group alone.  Lunch is nice and it's good to have each other to draw strength upon.  

The restaurant is right next to the funeral home and I leave a bit early to walk over, talk with Paula's family and turn in some mementos for the display.  The rest of the gals follow a bit later.  Here is a LINK to the post on the service itself, but I've included a few pictures here as well.  I asked for donations to send a flower "spray" but the florist was also a quilter and went above and beyond.  I was also surprised to find that they used my Christmas picture of Paula and that the quilt I gifted her was displayed.  My heart took a wrench, but I'll get through this too.  I add the nametag to the display and take a minute to see the pictures around the room and watch the slide show.  It ends with us on the beach.  Such a great memory.

After the service, quite a few of us go over to the reception and spend some time enjoying each other, funny memories, and yummy desserts.  Some of us are a bit more "high maintenance" than others, though.

This day has been GOOD for all of us.  The healing has begun and our friend will live on in our wonderful memories forever.  We will smile and follow her example of living life --- soaking up each and every minute that we can.  Scenes from the room --- 

Our table is approached by several who have questions and we are happy to share our love of Paula and each other with them.

We are even asked to have our picture taken by the ladies working the reception.  Of course --- Smile for Paula!  

Some last minute chances to stop time and commit moments to memory.  We are going to REALLY work at this.  Watch over us dear Paula.  Help us remember to LIVE.  We love you so very much and these smiles are for YOU.