It’s 3:30 in the morning. I find it hard to maintain my regular sleep routine after someone has died, not getting back to it until after each stage of their passing is complete. Last night was the ritual of the wake. The remains of that event, although out of my direct vision, linger throughout the house. Sure, we told them in lieu of flowers send memorials to this charity or that organization, but if everyone had done that I wouldn’t be here surrounded by the fragrance of fresh flowers.
Being nostalgic and traditional as I am, I think a funeral without flowers is like a birthday cake without candles. Cut flowers and flowering plants are always appreciated by me. Thankfully Husby has a green thumb because a few of the attendees chipped in and got a full-blown shrub!
While I remain in the I-can’t-maintain-a-normal-sleep-routine-because-someone-just-died state it’s nice to be surrounded by something so lovely as flowers and the fragrance they carry.
As far as I’m concerned, if you feel like ignoring the “in lieu of” message and want to send flowers to a funeral, just go for it. They’re beautiful, fragrant, and are a perfect symbol of the whole circle of life thing. Husby and I will enjoy these plants and flowers for a long time.
Addendum: One of the organizations suggested for memorials in Husby’s dad’s name is the Como Park Conservatory. Talk about flowers!
Auntie B's Wax 
Lovely pictures. Shrubs and other plants that go on are a living reminder, too, of the one you lost. I agree, you can’t go wrong with flowers.
Husby is the green thumb of the family and will keep some of these plants going for years to come. The “shrub” is a hibiscus. I got many suggestions that I wear the flowers in my hair, just like the beauties from Hawaii and other Polynesian cultures. Even if I don’t do that the plant will be a lovely addition to our backyard deck.
I agree, Sara! We also requested charitable donations (which were generously given), and received flowers/plants as well. I now have many wonderful “green” reminders of how much my sister, nephew, dad and mother-in-law were loved by so many people.
A good friend of mine died in a car accident out of state – it was agreed that the best way to share in her memory was to plant a tree in honor and remembrance of her. It’s been 10 years now, and it’s been a joy to watch that tree grow. Flowers are a great way to help with the healing and remind us of the fond feelings we have for those we’ve lost.
I love the idea of planting a tree in memory of someone. Not only does it always remind us of the person, it beautifies and strengthens the planet. How perfect is that?! Thanks for your comment.