Saturday, October 10, 2009

Today.....

Today was a big day.

There was a lot to do and not a lot of time.

After all is said and done I am left with a heavy heart and swollen eyes.

My first Super Saturday as Enrichment Leader was today. I only made it to the first part. It went pretty well considering the turnout. I was so impressed with my committee they really stepped up to their parts. Thanks girls. You are wonderful.

The reason I only made it to the first part is we had a funeral today at noon. Jeremy has a cousin on his moms side named Jeff. He and his wife Kelli have been married just over a year now and have a beautiful son named Riley. Sweet Riley passed away from SIDS this past Tuesday. We were all so sad to hear the news. He was only 4 months old and the sweetest thing. I held him just a few weeks ago at a family dinner. Riley smiled so sweet and looked right into your eyes like he could see into your soul. Now perhaps I think he could. I know that families can be together forever and there is a purpose for everything on the earth. However being there today at the viewing and seeing his little body in that impossibly small casket was so wrong. Jeff and Kelli cried with every person that came through the line. Just one look at little Riley and I knew his little spirit was gone up to heaven for sure. I don't know how they did it but they managed to make it through the viewing and family prayer. The both even had parts in the funeral service. Both were very touching and the spirit was so strong. The sounds of sniffles and crying was overwhelming. I havent cried that hard for a very long time. All I could think was what if that were me? Would I be that strong? Could I stand there for everyone to see and sing a song to my son that passed away? I honestly dont think I could. They were truly a example of how Heavenly Father brings strength to those who need it most in the hardest times.
I know I will never forget today and seeing all the things I saw and felt.

Later on tonight we had a wedding reception. I know, a wedding and a funeral in the same day. They say time doesnt stop for death but being there at that reception just felt sad to me. I hated going from one emotion to the next in such a short period of time. Jeff and Kelli dont have Riley anymore and as the day got longer I realized just how much it effected me. I will forever be grateful for my time with my family.

The one thing today that did lift my spirits was going out to dinner with my girlfriends. I waited all day for that happy time with them. They always know how to listen and understand. I am so grateful for them, my family and the knowledge that Jeff and Kelli will be with Riley again.

If any of you want to see a picture of sweet Riley and his wonderful loving parents follow the link below.