I'm grateful for the wonderful family I have -- from my husband and kids, to my siblings, parents, and nieces and nephews; and countless amazing aunts, uncles, cousins, and more. Karl's funeral today was a real reminder of how blessed I am. I am grateful for the people I'm surrounded by. The happy memories my life is made up of. And I'm especially grateful to have shared a day with people who were equally touched by Karl and his life. I was moved to tears by the other residents of his home coming to say goodbye, his teachers and caregivers from multiple organizations showing up to honor him, by the music that was played, and by the beautiful tributes given by two of his siblings. He touched countless lives. He was, and will continue to be, a great example and reminder of why joy and laughter matter so much and are so powerful. Today was an important reminder in my life of the lessons I've learned from my Uncle Karl -- I hope I never forget them, and can find ways to continue to teach them to my children. On top of it being my Uncle Karl's funeral today, it was also my sister Talina's birthday. Karl loved birthdays -- so much. One of the last things we did as a family before they closed the casket was sing 'Happy Birthday' to Talina -- which was fitting, since it was Karl's very favorite song. None of us knew this morning when we woke up that we would end up going to Nicklecade to celebrate a birthday, so we may have looked a little overdressed in our suits and dresses, and the boys in bow ties, as we played video games, did Dance Dance Revolution, and played air hockey. I am grateful every day, but especially on a day like today, that these people are in my life, and that I have a truly amazing family.
