My Father

Yesterday was Dad's funeral and thanksgiving service and it was all that we hoped it would be.

The burial at the cemetery was, as you would expect, fairly emotional but the sun shone brightly and having all of the family there really helped keep us all strong. One strange thing that i didn't expect was the box of earth offered to us all to scatter on the coffin. Especially as when previous asked by my boys whether it would happen had replied "you've been watching too many American films!"

The timing worked well and we arrived at the Church with five minutes or so to spare. As we were welcomed, I glanced into the church and was amazed to see that the church looked nearly full. We had no idea how many people would turn up, but we hadn't really expected that number!

The service comprised four hymns, two readings, my tribute on behalf of the family and prayers (some of which were written by Dad for services he had taken). My sister and Will did the readings and Matt read Dad's prayers. They all did very well and my tribute seemed to strike the right note. Apart from losing my place a couple of times (don't ad lib!) I got through with no problems, but I had written it and ensured that there were no emotional land-mines!

Afterwards there was tea, coffee and a huge spread of sandwiches, nibbles and cakes and a chance to say hello to lots of friends and family. It was a good hour and half later before we were able to pack up and head back to Mum's, where even more cake was available!

Dad would, I know, have thoroughly approved!