If you have ever been to an East Texas funeral or reunion, for that matter, you will know what I am talking about.  Funerals would consist of crying, laughing, talking about old stories, seeing people you haven't seen in a while, eating, eating, and more eating.  Usually, the church holds a lunch, as many churches do, filled with fried chicken, casseroles, breads, vegetables (usually fried), and lots of desserts.  One of the many things I remember at my grandfather's funeral is a blackberry, or berry-type cobbler that was amazing.  (please excuse me while I wipe up my slobber)  

Anyways, at family reunions we laughed, cried, talked about old stories, saw people that we only  saw once a year, and ate, and ate, and ate.  The best thing about the reunions is seeing the food table get piled high and us kids seeing what all we would get to taste, knowing that we could choose whatever we wanted while our parents were busy chatting and reminiscing.  

The only difference that I saw as a young one was that one person was missing at the funeral.  And really, as most of the funerals for my family were open casket, that person was still there.  I think this connection between to two has helped me to cope with death and having to go to funerals.  Although I have a serious dislike for the services, I know that they are more for the people still living and should be more of a celebration.

A very sweet lady was killed in a car wreck yesterday.  She and her ex-husband were youth counselors when I was in junior high.  When I read the news, my mind went to what I remember of her.  All I can really think of is her smile.  She had this beautiful smile that was contagious and I remember that I always thought she was such a good mom and a great lady.  At that age, I thought you had to be a good person to want to hang out with youth all the time when you weren't forced to!  Sadly, she never knew what I thought of her.  Life got in the way and I lost touch with her.  I do know that someday I will be able to tell her.

There will be quite a "freunion" in heaven one day.  There will be a lot of laughing, crying, and the telling of old stories.  Can't wait to attend that party!