Day 11

5/25/2024

We started out with both David and Charlie coming to the camp to visit.  We had already decided we couldn’t get everyone up to the Oaks in 1 piece, so the 3 of use went up there to have a private moment and spread some of Mom & Bob’s ashes together.

It was a beautiful day, and it meant a lot to me to share that moment with my brothers.

On the way down the mountain, I was getting texted from folks letting me know where they were and when they would arrive at camp.  Unfortunately, I was only receiving texts, but couldn’t send any.  So poor Denise was converged on by my relatives.  I think everyone recognized her from the blog, but she was at a distinct disadvantage.

From the moment we got back to camp, it was a blur of motion and commotion.  Change for the ceremony, pack water, pictures, guest book, camera, cups, alcohol, and chairs.  Then caravan over to the Mobile station in Olancha with initial group of relatives in tow.

All was well, except I realized on the way that I had forgotten the chairs and the booze.  This is when those breathing exercises come in handy.  And it was great to have both Denise and Joyce in the truck with me reminding me to breathe.

We pulled into the Mobile station, and it didn’t take long for folks to pull in after us.  As everyone arrived, the cars got empty, and we had a bit of a reunion right there!

Once we felt like we had everyone, we loaded back up and took off down the road.  I felt like we should have the police escort with the flashing lights, but we made it to the Sage Flat turn off without it. 

The top of Sage Flats overlooks the Oaks, so we could show everyone where Mom and Bob wanted to land.  Lucky for us, the wind cooperated beautifully.

Nathan, my nephew, gave a prayer of thanks and gratitude.  It was beautiful and meaningful and fun.

Then we all shared a story or two about Mom and/or Bob.  We had everyone rub the lamp, just in case we could get Jeanie to come back out…  And then David and Charlie took Mom and Bob’s urns respectively and spread their ashes at the tip of Sage Flags and we watched their ashes fly over to the Oaks.

 It was a beautiful, peaceful day full of love.

Bye, bye Mom!  Bye, bye Bob!  Have a great time where you are and we’ll see you again soon enough!

I love you both!!!