Life, Death, Margaritas and traveling to Ireland. Part Uno

So many things have been happening.

We've been busy busy prepping the house and our lives for the ginormous renovation AND my Mom's interment service.

My Mom's service was something SO darn special. I really wish she was there IN person so I could see the smile on her face; I know without a doubt that she loved it.

If someone ever has another funeral and invites me, I'll refuse to attend.

Ok, maybe I won't, but I'll be disappointed that they didn't have a celebration instead; I'm telling you, it's the way to go.

First off, months ago, even before my Mom became ill she told us all about this great place that she had visited. The Monastery of the holy spirit in Conyers, GA. She and a girlfriend took a day trip and loved the tour so much. (I had been there a few times as a teen with my church group; it is a beautiful place) Mom mentioned that near the Monastery they did green burials on protected land. She was fascinated by this....and you know, with me being green and all, I was too. What a great concept.

While she was sick, we really didn't discuss the plans if perhaps she didn't survive cancer...but

she's been telling me forever that she wanted to be cremated. She never wanted to take up precious land space when she was gone. This worked out well since you can place your remains in a spot on the green cemetery. 

The family took a trip there while Mom was in hospice knowing we'd need to choose the perfect spot for her.

We all found a great area that we liked; Lolo and Linds actually picked THE spot for Mom.

Something really cool about this place is that the Monks pray daily for those who are resting here and this land will never ever be touched. It is protected until the end of time.

And you don't have to be a certain religion OR any religion at all....it's open to all of us. 

You can go and visit any time too; it's a beautiful place to walk and enjoy nature. No headstones; nothing obtrusive, Only a simple stone engraved with your name. They are truly green; if you wish to NOT be cremated, you're wrapped in a shroud or placed in a pine box. Everything has to be compostable. We decorated a cardboard box for my Mom's cremains...I really should have used a shoe box though; she was a fan of shoes. 

 

We finalized her plans back in June but we didn't have the wherewithal to actually HAVE the service back then. The Coach had the idea to wait until Labor Day weekend...which was a great idea. Between cleaning out her apartment, organizing finances, etc...waiting was the way to go. Also, it gave us some time to heal emotionally. 

 I'll share some photos and details from her service (and then some) soon; it was quite spectacular if I don't say so myself. 

I hope all my blog friends are doing well; you're missed!!!

XOXOXOXO