Grandpa Bradshaw's Funeral

Mike's Grandpa was laid to rest on March 4th. We went up to Cedar on the 3rd for the viewing in the evening and spent the night. We we at the funeral home again in the morning for another viewing and the closing of the casket. The kids were very good and it was nice to spend time with Mike's cousins. Everyone held it together very well until Anna said her good-bye's and totally lost it. Poor girl just sobbed and sobbed. It triggered tears in others in the room. Sweet girl did just what so many of us were holding back. It was a sweet moment. Tyson helped some of the other kids "tuck" Grandpa in and we all put some memories in the casket. One thing that touched me a lot was done by my son. The night before, Mike and I were finishing up the French horn/piano number we were asked to perform at the funeral. We had some staff music out and were writing an arrangement. Tyson asked for some staff paper to write a song as well. He finished it and played it for us. He was so proud of it and carried it around in his pocket the next day. When it was time to put our thoughts/memories in the casket, Tyson took the song out of his pocket and placed it in the casket. He was so proud of that piece.....I thought he would keep it forever......but instead it was the last thing he gave to his Grandpa. I thought it was very sweet. The service was wonderful. It was full of music and good stories. Mike and I were able to help with the children's song and then we performed our piece- If You Could Hie to Kolob. It turned out nice. Bob played the French horn when he was younger and I was glad I could play for him. After the service, we went to the graveside. After many days of stormy weather, it had cleared up nicely. Though sad, it is good to know he is back with Onda. Anna said that over and over. She is so happy that he is not sick anymore and that he is with Grandma again. There is for sure a whole left without both of them here. We miss them and will be glad for that day when we are reunited again.