memorial
Today was Leslie's memorial service. On her late uncle's birthday, the day before her brother's birthday (and she died on her brother and sister-in-law's wedding anniversary). Then this morning my sister took Leslie's cat Nikko to the vet because he was acting strangely and sick. Nikko was put down this morning--he had inoperable cancer. With Les now, walking on her and chewing on her hair when she was trying to sleep.
It was as Leslie would have wanted. Casual, people talking and laughing over their stories of Leslie. Friends gathered around. Her 2-1/2 yr old niece running everywhere. Her 3-month old niece in the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles onsie Leslie had bought for her. Sugar skulls, orange flowers, no religion (as per her request). Cupcakes and cookies and coffee. Her friends writing inappropriate comments on a whiteboard. Not just people walking in, saying a few words of comfort and walking out. This was a party. Yep--this was the send-off Leslie would have wanted.
A couple of her old friends from NJ came--surprised me. My best friend came up from NC (not such a surprise, but appreciated). Mostly Les' friends and co-workers. A nice woman named Marcella, who Leslie met online, and who had posted some great pics of Leslie on her memorial pages--I asked her if she could email those to me. She said she had a lot more she would send as well. Seems Leslie had quite an internet/Twitter following. A surprising number of my neighbors.
I got my photo board done this morning. Leslie from her first hospital baby pic to the last one I have of her smiling--she was in the hospital doing a puppet show for the nurses with the various medical monitors on her fingers. That was Leslie. Leslie dressed as an elf, as a superhero, as a phoenix (if only she COULD rise from the ashes...)
I have her ashes now. I'd been looking online for an urn that would be as unique as its occupant and found a handcrafted copper raku urn--one of a kind, just like Leslie. Ordered that tonight.
Totally exhausted now, but pleased. Leslie would have loved this. Leslie's last party.
Love you, girl.
Replies
Leslie's memorial sounds full of love and so unique! I'm glad you are pleased knowing Leslie would have loved this celebration of life.
I'm sorry about her cat, Nikko. They are reunited now...♡
Love and gentle hugs, Linda
I love that you were able to give her the "send off" she wanted. I've told all my friends if they don't throw a blow out karaoke party and celebrate my life when I leave this space I'm coming back to mess with them, LOL!
I'm sorry about Nikko. Always hard to lose a fur baby. (((hugs)))
I understand the exhaustion my friend. Take care.
Teri
Nikko and Leslie now both together... I'm grateful that the celebration of life service was one that Leslie would have wanted. These are huge days to move through and bring with them every feeling so be extra gentle with yourself now. I understand there are places to go and things to do, yet understand that your body and soul are working overtime now. It often felt as if I was running a marathon with no finish line and had to make sure I took the time to take myself out of the race to just BE, however that might look and feel.
Heartfelt (((hugs))) to you,
XO Joanie