:: celebrating a life much loved ::

Last week we learned that Eti's grandmaman had passed away. Her health had been deteriorating significantly for the past three years. In many ways it was a relief to know she was finally free to go and spend the rest of eternity with her beloved Lord and Saviour, but it was also bittersweet news to learn because she will be much missed. I only met her once, over three years ago. We hoped one day to return to where they lived, on the other side of France near Bordeaux, to introduce them to the girls. But seasons, travel and keeping the girls healthy in their first couple of years meant it didn't eventuate. I did, however, know from the way that Eti spoke of her that she was a wonderful grandmother who created many of his most favourite childhood memories, along with the rest of his brothers and cousins. During holidays spent together there were many boardgames played, books read, raspberries picked and adventures in their large garden. The things that wonderful childhoods are made of. Eti's grandpapa helped care for her right to the end; to him she was still his "fiancée" even to her 80's, his sweetheart and the one who shared his contagious, spilling-over love for Jesus. He will miss her greatly, as well as the wider family.

So, last Thursday we travelled across France with Eti's parents in their campervan to be with the family and go to the funeral the following day. Most of the family were able to make it, and it was a great time for everyone to be together because we're all scattered over quite a wide radius! The weather was usually hot, sweltering could be a better description! The girls did extremely well with the long 10 hour each-way drives, heat and late nights. Much of the time was spent with family and it was a precious time spent together...maybe the last for a long while. 

Not many photos were taken, but here are a few of the moments we shared...

An amazing paella that we shared together (the pan is huge!) one evening at a restaurant beside a beautiful canal

On the Saturday the family spent most of the day beside a small lake. The cool weather was a welcome relief from the heat! And there were plenty of laughs with all the funny cousin antics going on :o)

Four generations (above) - Eti's grandpapa (far right), his papa, Amélie & Eti

Elise and her much-loved Grandpapa :o)

Amélie enjoying cuddles and stories with Grandmaman :o)

Now we're back home and catching up on rest, but thankful to have gone for this time.