A random assortment of stories

I have had a busy last week since getting back from Rome. the day I got back, I went to visit my Granddad in a hospice, where he was moved while I was in Rome. I said my goodbyes, and so did the family, and he passed away 3 hours later. Throughout my life, I have always been aware that death is around me, but I have never seen it this close. It is comforting to know that he lived a good life, and I am sure I will see him in heaven. While in the hospice, I found it hard to look at my Granddad. It hurts to see someone you love in such a poor and helpless state. Just looking at him brought me to tears. I prefer to remember him for the good times we had while he was alive.  I have a funeral to go to in the next few days, and have been asked to be one of the casket bearers. I have begun to wonder why it is we feel the need to mourn the dead at all. They are gone, and it seems to me that the whole morning process is a bit selfish. All everyone is worried about is how much they miss the person who died and how it will effect them. Not many people think about celebrating the deceased persons life, and that they cannot feel or think anymore, so any pain they had is gone. I like to think of death and the journey that follows as a permanent vacation from the pains and sorrows of life.

I went to my families cabin at Birch Bay for the past 4 days to celebrate the 4th of July. it is one of the most relaxing places I know. The cabin is literally 25 feet from the water, and I could sit on the beach all day and be happy. When the tide goes out sometimes you can walk for miles into the bay. Birch bay at any time of the year is fantastic... Birch bay on the 4th... OMG! The entire bay is full of fireworks, bonfires, and people from dark until 2 or 3 in the morning. We always go to the Indian reservation and buy some fireworks and sit on the beach setting them off all night and watching as the entire bay gives a spectacular show the entire night. Birch Bay is better than any professional show I have ever seen on the 4th, and I would not give it up for anything.

On another random note, In Birch Bay, I was visited by a stray cat. He stayed in our cabin the entire 4 days, and even killed a bird and brought it to us. It was really hot and he would just lay around and look cute all day. I wish I could have taken him home with me. I seem to have a knack for finding cats... which I am okay with cause I love them!

I will be leaving to go back to Spokane for work in just a few days, and am looking forward to being around many of my friends. Unfortunately my 2 best friends will still be miles away. I cant wait to see them whenever that is : )