One word to summarize this weekend: intense.
While I expected Friday to be packed full with birthday celebrations and wedding preparations, I never expected the death of my beloved grandfather. I know that he is in a better place, free of the pain of cancer, but I certainly wish that I would have spent a little more time with him in these last few months. I am so glad that I was able to go home last weekend as well, and I was given the amazing chance to see him and basically say goodbye. He was sitting in his recliner, watching NC State play football (just like normal!). I believe that has to be one of the best final memories for me to have of my grandfather.
The news came via a phone call from my sister while I was visiting with D outside. Thankfully, he brought good (on one front) news. HE PASSED THE BAR! Of course I never doubted his ability to pass, but I know that it was a very stressful time for him, and a good birthday present! And he was able to find an apartment in Chicago, so the move is now certainly going to happen. I will miss him, but I am glad that he has a job (since so many are unable to find decent jobs...) even if it takes him away for a few months (or years). We have talked about our future plans, but have also realized that we need to settle in before making any major plans.
To celebrate D's birthday, we went to Kanki with his mother and sister. The food was amazing and I didn't really mind being picked on by the guy making our food. I still think that he should have picked on the birthday boy, but I suppose I was the next youngest at the table! After dinner, we shared a cheesecake made by his sister and decorated by his 2 year old nephew. The one potential setback was the lack of silverware, but we just used chopsticks instead!
Following dinner, we said goodbye to his mother and sister and headed to Wal-Mart to pick up a few quick things (including Halloween candy and Star Wars pjs!) for the wedding on Saturday. Then we got ready to go out to celebrate with our friends, for both his birthday and his going away party. It was a lovely night with friends I hadn't seen in a few weeks, some even since summer! While I believe I pulled off being pretty normal, my grandfather's death was in the back of my mind all night. Looking back, I think I did a little too much on Friday, which led to a minor breakdown early Saturday morning.
After some good beer on Friday night, we headed to Locust, NC for B and T's wedding! I wasn't really sure how happy the wedding was going to be, with my family being pretty torn up over Granddaddy's death, but it was a lovely wedding and even Grandmama was very composed during the ceremony and reception. T looked very happy and B was gorgeous! It really seems to be true that every bride looks amazing on her wedding day. I loved the unique look to B's dress and she seemed to know both of her grandfathers were looking down on her big day. And I caught the bouquet at the reception! Granted all the other girls (there were only 4) stepped backwards and I had to lunge in order to catch it before it fell to the ground, but still. So now I suppose I am next in line? Although, if I am next in line to those girls, it makes perfect sense...
After the wedding we headed to Charlotte, to celebrate my dad's birthday. Saturday night consisted of hanging out, watching college football. It was nice to just be there with my parents and enjoy a few quiet moments after two very busy days. While I didn't really enjoy waking up early for church on Sunday morning, the service was lovely and I believe D enjoyed the more laid-back atmosphere of my church. I hope wherever I end up settling down, I can find a church very similar to Sardis.
All of the family got back together Sunday afternoon for Dad's birthday celebration, which was a lovely affair. I think my dad really enjoyed seeing everyone there for his birthday, even if his own father couldn't make it. The funeral is tomorrow, and I believe that is the time I will finally cry. Thankfully D offered to drive me to Charlotte tomorrow, giving me the opportunity to be sad and NOT have to focus on driving on the highway.
I believe that is basically a summary of my intense weekend. Lots of much needed family time! I will be glad to see everyone again tomorrow, even if the terms are not the happiest.
D and I leave on Thursday evening for Chicago, I can't wait!
Maybe I will post pictures soon? Don't look too forward to them, though...
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