Howell's Near and Far

Well the funeral for Nathan last Friday was highly emotional for me but couldn't have been more spiritual, positive and uplifting. The message that came across strongly was that Nathan loved life and loved people. He made everyone happy that was around him with his contagious smile and kind words. We need to follow his example and do the same for others. He certainly was here to teach us! The coffin was painted in bright yellow because Nathan LOVED riding the school bus. So many people had wonderful things to say about Nathan. Not many leave such a rich legacy at the age of ten. Nathan loved Cub Scouts so they had all their Cubs do a flag ceremony to start the meeting. Stephen's sister and husband gave a life sketch, then Aunt Suzi talked and did a great job. All the cousins sang a beautiful rendition of I Am A Child of God and then they had another Aunt from Stephen's side speak. Ashley shared her testimony which was amazingly that she would be willing to do that at 11 years old and Stephen and Jenny gave some remarks. It was a wonderful meeting! From there we went to the Alpine Cemetery.

Nathan absolutely loved Winnie the Pooh. Jenny had a tile with this quote on it that I loved, and summed it all up - "If ever there is tomorrow when we're not together.. there is something you must always remember. you are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think. but the most important thing is, even if we're apart.. i'll always be with you.” Thanks for showing us the way Nate - We love you forever and always!