A Visit to Idaho City

We went for a little drive up to Idaho City. It was a beautiful day, and it had been a long time since we visited the cemetery. It is closed during the winter, so we just don't get there much, which is actually fine with me, and the kids. 

It is a beautiful place to visit, but we prefer to just celebrate him living, rather than grieving at his place of burial. We actually feel the closest to him in our home. Though the cemetery is peaceful and pleasant; he is not there. His body has not yet risen, but his spirit has, and he has work to do. When he has a moment, he pops back home for a visit. I did not feel close to him at all there, while looking at the dirt that covers his mortal husk. 

We walked around a bit, but did not stay too long, since it was a school night. We also stopped at the school park to let the kids play. My parents are here visiting from Alaska, so we all got to enjoy the journey together. It was nice just to get out for a ride. It has been awhile since we have done any traveling. I was able to keep some ice packs on my legs while riding in the backseat, so that was nice. Sometimes it is just so nice to ride. I am the only driver in our family now, so riding is a pleasure I do not often get to enjoy. 

When we got to the cemetery, we found that someone had left a snickers bar on Charles' headstone. I don't know if it was randomly placed, or meaningfully left there by someone? It made the kids smile though, we just left it there... we will see if the animals ever come for it.

There was a moment when the sun was shining right on the headstone. It was really beautiful. I really do love it there. Just to be there is a blessing, and a miracle the way that the location came about in the first place. I have seen more than my fair share of miracles, that is for sure. 

I desperately miss Charles, but I know that he still lives. He is as alive as I am. He is just through another door; one that I cannot open quite yet. I will see him again, and we will be together always. Death is not the end. It is just another beginning... 

"End? No, the journey doesn't end here. Death is just another path, one that we all must take. The grey rain curtain of this world rolls back, and all turns to silver glass, and then you see it... white shores, and beyond, a far green country under a swift sunrise." - Gandalf. 

The journey doesn't end here. Actually, the journey never ends. It continues on forever, and ever. I suppose we might as well enjoy it, right? 

Courage to continue, my friends. 

Here are some pictures from our little trip... it was a beautiful evening.