Bitter-Sweet Birthday

This year my birthday was kind of unusual. My father's father, Douglas F Prince, passed away a few days before and his funeral was the day of my birthday.  Marshall took the day off work and we traveled down to St. George Utah to see family and attend the funeral service. When we knew he was most likely not going to recover from his latest ailment, we had planned to make it down to see him and Grandma as soon as we could since they had not yet met Kate. Unfortunately, we weren't able to get there in time, but here are some pictures we were able to get at the family gathering with Dad and Grandma.

 

Not all of the cousins were able to make it to the funeral, but all of Grandpa's children and most of their spouses were there. Here is the big group shot of those who were in attendance.

Here is Grandma (Beth Prince) with all of her living children and their spouses. (Emmie wasn't able to attend because she was too far along in her pregnancy and Heidi had to stay in Colorado to hold down the fort).

 

Grandma and her children. Top row (Leon, Bill, Warren, Sam, Leland, Kim) Bottom row (Frances Williams, Sheila Knight, Beth Prince, Peggy, Gwen Mecham)

 

 

Daughters

Sons

 

Because Grandpa was being buried in Salt Lake City, the graveside and dedication was held the next day. As you can see the weather was not ideal to say the least but it was still a neat experience. Marshall's dad, Wayne, was able to attend and he helped with Kate while Marshall and I braved the weather.

I love military tributes! They are always so emotional for me.

 

It was a bitter-sweet couple of days and a little bit of a downer for a birthday but overall a good experience. It was so nice to see so many family members and especially nice to see my dad and brothers on my birthday (a rare occasion now that we are all grown). Grandpa's funeral was emotional and touching. The spirit was strong and there were a lot of opportunities for family member to heal and grow.

I had several impressions over the course of those couple of days, but only a few that really stood out and that I will never forget.

First, I am so grateful for the legacy of obedience and service, (especially service to the Lord and in building the Kingdom of God), that my father's parents have left me and my children.

Second, I am continually impressed and grateful for the example of unconditional love, especially towards family, that my own father shows.

Third, while my uncle Leon was sharing a letter written by one of my cousins, he quoted something along the lines of how my cousin was always grateful for the last name Prince and how he knew he was somebody because he knew it meant something to be a Prince. I always grew up feeling the same way, however, I was overwhelmed at that moment with a feeling of gratitude towards my husband and his family, the Beesons. I am so grateful that my daughter, and future children, have such and amazing legacy of strength, obedience, faith and service from both sides of their family. Marshall spent the entire funeral in the hall with Kate so I could enjoy time with my family and honor my grandfather. He was taught by his righteous parents and he is such an amazing example himself.

Even though if you would have asked me beforehand how I would've liked to spend my birthday this year, this wouldn't have been it... I am so grateful for the life-changing experience and impressions that came with that unique day!

What a wonderful Father in Heaven who blesses us with tender mercies!