Honoring Aunt Blez

Last week we received the shocking news that my Aunt Blez, dad's sister, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly while napping or meditating.  Our family still does not know what happened physically.  Aunt Blez had recently become very involved in yoga and meditation, and we would like to believe that her spirit had come to such a completely peaceful place that she drifted away.  It was a very tough time for everyone, particularly my uncle, cousins, grandmother, who just celebrated her 90th birthday with a surprise party thrown by my aunt,  and my dad.  

The family was overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support from friends, family, and extended co-workers.  The story of how many lives my aunt touched is told in the baskets and baskets of beautiful flowers that arrived from all over the place.  Aunt Blez enjoyed gardening with my grandmother, so it was fitting.

It's amazing how the presence of children helps to heal the heart.  Riley and my cousin's sons, Miles and Quincy, enjoyed getting to know one another.  They had a blast playing Foosball in Lola's garage.
The match-up was intense!

This photo was taken in the mini-van on the way from the Mass service to the cemetery.  It was asking a lot for a 5 year old and two 3 year olds to behave though multiple services and high emotions.  They were all amazing!  What great kids.

They woke up in time for the luncheon, where they got to play with all kinds of other kids.  Audrey, Miles, Riley and Quncy.

Gran-Gran and General loved having Riley there to lighten the mood!
Dad and Grandma at Grandma's house on Justin Drive!

On Friday mom, Steve, Riley and I took some time to tour around San Francisco while dad spent time with Grandma.  We went to the Aquarium of the Bay at Pier 39.  They have an underwater walkway where fish that can be found in the Bay swim all around and over you!  Steve got to "pet" a shark (there is glass in between, obviously).  It's a cool shot, though!
We visited the carousel on the Pier, and also checked out the sea lions that like to lounge around.
Cool skyline pic of Coit Tower and the TransAmerica Building from the walkway to the Pier.

We also had a little bit of time to swing by Golden Gate Park and check out the Japanese Tea Garden.
I thought this reflection was kind of neat.  There are Koi in the wishing ponds.

Riley and Steve at the top of the bridge.  It was very steep, and I got a little nervous!

More walkways.
Unforeseen events like this really remind you to appreciate everyone in your life, and not to take those you love for granted.  So, if you're reading this, it's because you're someone in our lives that we love and care about.  And we just want you to know how much we appreciate all of you.  Thank you for being a part of our lives!