A Memory For Jay

Dear Jay,

Never travel in a car for six hours beside dad if you want to keep your ribs in tact, and be very thankful you didn’t have to listen to the Glee soundtrack.

Nana’s funeral was held at the little chapel in the cemetery we used to walk through when we would visit Uncle James and Auntie Rosalyn’s:

It was a Church of England service and felt so impersonal to me. I looked out of the stained glass window during the set prayers and said my own, and enjoyed some memories of Nana. We sang one hymn, All Things Bright and Beautiful. We drove to the other end of the cemetery to bury Nana, passing the big trees we used to hide behind:

The view from her grave overlooks Carlisle with the Peak District in the background. I thought it was very fitting:

We had a proper English tea for lunch with sandwiches, scones and cake. Nana would thoroughly approve!

We visited with family for a while before we snuck back to the cemetery to dedicate the grave. Uncle James, Auntie Rosalyn and Andrew came with us and really appreciated it; they felt more comfort from Jason’s brief prayer than the vicar was able to give during the whole of the service.

We left for home after our quick visit to Auntie Betty’s. She hasn’t changed much in all these years, and neither has her home I’m pleased to say! She sends you all her love.

I spent the return journey in the back seats with Leah… I didn’t fancy more bruises from Dad! I wish you could have seen mum singing along to Muse and totally rocking out, it was hilarious!  I also discovered I can go without sleep for over 24 hours.  We all missed you; it felt weird for me to go back to Carlisle without you.  I said goodbye to Nana for you.

Love Naomi x