Celebration of Life

Nora Jane's celebration of life was a week long celebration filled with family and wonderful memories of Nora Jane. Monday we spent at the Cahill Seniors' house remembering Nora and just being with each other. That afternoon went to find the perfect Princess dress for Evie to wear for Nora's party, and we needed to make sure Lachlan looked sharp as well! Tuesday we spent going through pictures and videos of Nora and of course just spending time together. Wednesday was her wake in St. Paul. There was Nora 'paraphernalia' all over the place, it was pretty cute. They had her hands and feet molded, poster boards of pictures of her, little sockies she would always wear, and some of her favorite toys all around the room.

Wednesday was also my due date. I needed to trust in the Lord SO much that the timing of this baby would work out. Every day I needed to lift it up, but then at the same time, tell Him how it needs to go--but then I would lift it up again. : )

Thursday was her funeral. The final closure of saying good-bye to Nora. It was at the Basilica of St. Mary's in Minneapolis. A big space for a big Spirit. Everything about the ceremony was beautiful from the music to the readings, and especially Molly's letter to Nora. Check out her caring bridge site-seriously it's tearjerkingly beautiful.

Molly reading the letter to Nora. Aaron by her side.

After the Mass we were invited outside for a bird releasing ceremony. Molly knew someone who has a homing dove and she offered Molly the use of it. To me it symbolized Nora's spirit leaving this earth to be with the Father.

Molly and Evie cuddling as everyone recesses out of the church. The bells started ringing.

Evie and Molly getting ready to release the dove. The bells are still ringing.

The magnificent bells are still ringing.

All were invited to go inside for some Delicious food catered by Chef Jeff who did Aaron and Molly's wedding, Grandpa Cahill's funeral, and our wedding. By now, he's tradition! And he is so good! These good lookin Cahill fellas were excited for the yummy food too!

Family picture, though you can't see BC II

We all looked so good in our pink and gray. There were several of these pictures taken, but this was the one where everyone looked the best--kids will be kids!

After leaving the church we went back to the Cahill Sr's where we had been pretty much living, and celebrated an Irish funeral in honor of Nora. We had some tequila, ole! But 2 of us were stickin to the soft stuff...

We did some more sharing, and Molly told stories of the hospital life and of Nora and of God's hand in all of this. We were there with some of Norma's siblings and friends. Then the Cahill children decided to move to the porch. It was a lovely evening with some chill in the air. Perfect for lighting up some cigars to continue our Irish funeral. (I had a Drs apt that morning, and was dilated to a 1.5 and I just had a few hours to go until I didn't care when BC II came. So I really tried to take it easy Thursday! I was very excited and grateful that I was able to out on that porch.) What a wonderful and memorable week. BC II's timing was AMAZING in all of this. I take such pride in having my child listen to me even before we have met face to face. I know this will continue on throughout his whole life...I can dream, can't I? : )

(These were not cigars, they are ceder sticks, so Evie and I kept smelling them)

We love you, Nora Jane, and we miss you. Thank you for all your love.