the beach scattering

Here's a really delayed update on our time of memorial at the beach with my family:

On August 13th, my Dad took us out to eat at the Boundary House Restaurant in Calabash, NC. He wanted to treat us to a dinner in memory of Thayer. He gave each of us a cutsie little tealight that we lit in honor of Thayer, and we enjoyed a yummy meal.

Afterwards, we headed back to the rental house and proceeded to head out to the beach to scatter the remainder of Thayer's ashes.

I did not fully prep the kids on my expectations (which I now regret) but I was hoping that we could get the job done without too much chaos. I said a brief prayer and then allowed everyone to grab a handful of ashes to scatter in the surf.

To my utter embarrasement, and horror, I turned to see my sister covered in ashes... her face and clothes coated in "thayer". I immediately assumed that L had intentionally thrown a handful at her. I was somewhat humored -but instantly very upset with L... and therefore distracted thru the rest of the process.

* But to my relief, I later learned that he had just spun around as he was tossing the ashes... and with the spin and the direction of the wind.... my lovely sis was just purely unlucky. (something we had joked about just days before) oops.

My sister wasn't the only one to have a sampling of ashes in her face that evening.

My nephew rubbed his eyes with ash covered hands. and my neice had some of it blow into her eyes as well.

(I know that this probably isn't a very tasteful picture... but I think it's funny)
:-)

It was a time of several mixed emotions. I seemed to be in business mode... just wanting to finish the job, the kids were having a field day, some of us were laughing, while others were crying. It was a quick, interesting few moments. I've got to admit that it wasn't similar to the experience that I had shared with Thad and the kids in June. But that's okay! I think Thayer would have laughed at us.... and probably even made comments about what a weird family we are. :-)

I just keep thinking how neat it is that Thayer's ashes have been scattered in the mountains and at the beach. I can't think of anywhere cooler to be scattered. Thayer really enjoyed times in both locations. I am happy that we have been able to return his ashes to the elements.... knowing full well that he is currently whole with Christ.

I miss him dearly but I rejoice in the freedom and peace that he now has.

oh... to be in the presence of Jesus....