The Tradition of National Wreaths Across America
Saturday was National Wreaths Across America. I donated a wreath and spent some time at the National Cemetery in New Albany last weekend in honor of the occasion. National Wreaths Across America is a heartfelt and patriotic tradition that takes place annually, bringing communities together to honor and remember the brave men and women who have served in every branch of the United States Armed Forces. This poignant event, marked by the laying of wreaths on the graves of veterans, symbolizes gratitude, remembrance, and a collective commitment to never forget the sacrifices made for freedom, but I believe it can be a wonderful opportunity to honor and remember our own beloved deceased loved ones, whether or not they were veterans.
Celebrate National Family Stories Month: Capturing the Wisdom of Our Elders
Hey, y’all! I’m happy to be back sharing on the blog today. Can you believe it’s already November?! November is so much more than pumpkin spice lattes and cozy sweaters, although those are two of my very favorite things. November commemorates Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness, Family Caregivers, Gratitude, Home Care and Hospice, Life Writing, Long-Term Care […]
National Tattoo Day
It’s National Tattoo Day.
Do you have any special or memorial tattoos. I’d love to see and hear the stories of them. Some of our inked art holds deep personal meaning, and serves as beautiful reminders of loved ones who have left an indelible mark on our lives.
Memorial tattoos are a unique way to keep cherished memories close. Each one tells a story of love, loss, and the enduring connection we hold with those we miss. We have a permanent reminder to keep our loved one close to us in our thoughts to inspire and guide us.
Be in more photos
I made this video even though I’m a mess to remind you to be in more photos.
Queens & Funerary traditions
As a departure doula, I’m fascinated with the funerary and mourning rituals surrounding the death of Queen Elizabeth. Did you know most of our current “traditional” funeral customs came from another queen?
Some quick thoughts about howVictorian tradition shaped our modern funeral industry.
Memorial Day
I went to school with Steve five days a week, where he’d slam shut my locker, next to his, before I had my last books out. Or slam it and spin my lock so I’d have to start all over. He relished teasing me, but he’d also call me on the phone often, even decades […]
Last public words of Maurice Sendak
This is so beautiful. I watched it several times. And think I will rewatch it daily. “We all know how loving ends.” “Live your life. Live your life. Live your life.” Maurice Sendak
Visitation
My mother died in June of 2019. It took us months to decide on a gravestone, and the the pandemic slowed everything down. It was finally installed after Thanksgiving, but then it was winter. Yesterday we finally had a beautiful day to visit in person. Her sisters and mother (who turns 91 today. Happy birthday, […]
Plants and legacies
My mother’s Thanksgiving cactus is blooming again. It makes me feel like it’s her sending me her love, a sign, that she’s still with me. I love thinking that my mom’s energy is out there nurturing the plants and flowers she always loved. I do not have a very green thumb, but I’m so thankful […]
Profiles of Resiliency: Conversations About Death, Dying and Grief
Taylor’s suicide changed Genevera’s life in innumerable ways. “It changed everything about who I am, what my priorities are, who I want to be.”
