Trip to Utah

We went out to Utah for Jonathan's funeral. I am so glad we decided to take all the kids, it was great to be together as a family. Kati played her violin at the funeral and Jacob was a pall bearer, it was good for them to feel connected.
The kids launched balloons at the gravesite to represent Jonathan being free from his body.
It was fun to have so many of Jim's family together, it has been many years since we have seen some of them.
Jim's work sent this beautiful flower for the funeral, Kati loved it so much she offered to carry it on her lap for 2 days in the car to bring it home. (It stayed at Grandma's house)
When I met Jim I was introduced to his 2 little brothers who were adopted with several special needs. Having worked with special needs children and their families I knew that siblings of these great kids were some of the most patient and loving people that I knew. Jim fell into this category, and I knew that he would make a great hubby and daddy. I have always been very impressed with how he treated Jonathan and how he treats Ernie. Jim is at ease and loves children and adults who have these challenges in their lives. There is nothing that brings a smile to my face like Jim interacting with a down syndrome child or one severely handicapped in a wheelchair, etc. I admire him for his patience and honor his love of his brother Jonathan. I sure love this man. May we all be as patient and non-judgmental as Jim is.