Guiding Good Goodbyes
What families are saying about us
Remembering the Life of
Recent Blog Posts
Whether it’s a holiday dinner, a birthday, or a quiet Sunday morning coffee – some moments feel heavier when someone you love is missing. The “empty chair” becomes more than just a piece of furniture. It becomes a symbol of who used to be there, and all the things you still wish you could say or hear. Maybe you’ve lost someone to death, or maybe it’s distance, divorce, estrangement, or a deployment. Whatever the reason, these moments – when the absence becomes especially loud – can stir up waves of emotion. Here’s how to gently prepare for those times when the chair is empty, but your heart is full. Acknowledge What’s Coming – the first step is simple, but powerful: name it. Say to yourself: “this is going to be hard.” Pretending you’re fine or pushing away emotion can create more distress in the long run. But when you acknowledge a particular day or event may bring up grief, anger, sadness, you begin to take back some control. You’re aware and you are preparing instead of being blindsided. Allow Grief Its Place at the Table – Grief doesn’t follow a calendar. It might show up months or even years after a loss – especially during meaningful events. Rather than resisting it, make space for it. Don’t think of grief as a guest you didn’t invite, but rather as a reflection of how deeply you loved someone. It’s okay to cry, feel numb, or even to laugh and then feel guilty for it. Plan Support in Advance – When a hard day is on the horizon, don’t wait until you’re overwhelmed to ask for help. Reach out to a friend ahead of time, letting them know that you’re facing a challenging day. Be Kind to Your Timeline – Some years the empty chair will bring a deep ache. Other years it might feel lighter – healing does not mean forgetting.  Empty chair moments are tender, powerful reminders of love, loss, and everything in between. As you face them, know this: you are not alone. Across tables and across time, many hearts are carrying the weight of absence — and holding on to the memories that still bring light. So be gentle with yourself. Prepare if you can. Breathe when it hurts. And remember - even in their absence, love can still fill the room.
A Guide On What to Bring When Making Arrangements
\Whether people like to admit it or not, everyone has their fears. For many, it is a fear of funeral homes. Death and grief can be scary and full of emotion so it is understandable that walking through the doors of the funeral home can seem daunting. Dealing with anxiety at funeral homes can be challenging, but there are strategies you can use to cope with your feelings: Acknowledge Your Feelings : It's natural to feel anxious or uncomfortable in a funeral home setting. Recognize and accept your emotions without judgment. Take Deep Breaths : Practice deep breathing exercises to calm your nerves. Inhale slowly through your nose, hold for a few seconds, and exhale through your mouth. Repeat several times. Focus on the Present : Instead of letting your mind wander to negative thoughts or worries, focus on the present moment. Pay attention to your surroundings, the people around you, or a specific object in the room. Seek Support : If you're feeling overwhelmed, seek support from a friend or family member who can accompany you. Having someone by your side can provide comfort and reassurance. Use Relaxation Techniques : Utilize relaxation techniques such as progressive muscle relaxation or visualization to ease tension and promote a sense of calmness. Take Breaks if Needed : If you start to feel too overwhelmed, don't hesitate to step outside for some fresh air or take a short walk to gather your thoughts. Practice Self-Compassion : Be kind to yourself and acknowledge that it's okay to feel anxious. Treat yourself with compassion and understanding. Focus on the Purpose : Remind yourself of the purpose of being at the funeral home , whether it's to pay respects, support loved ones, or say goodbye. Keeping this in mind can help shift your focus away from anxiety. Consider Professional Help : If your anxiety persists or significantly impacts your ability to cope, consider seeking support from a mental health professional who can provide guidance and coping strategies tailored to your needs. Remember that it's normal to feel anxious in such emotionally charged environments, and it's okay to take steps to manage your anxiety in a way that works best for you.
