Five Songs for a Celebration of Life
Celebrations of Life have become increasingly popular for final services, as families move away from dark and somber traditional funeral services. Families have found solace and, to some degree, joy in relating fond memories and celebrating the contributions of individuals. Celebrations of Life have also created a need for new…...
What Is Embalming?
Embalming has been a part of how we treat the deceased for over 7,000 years. Modern embalming practices using chemicals, however, became popular during the American Civil War. Embalming practices were not only used on soldiers killed in the war, but during that time, travel became more extensive in the…...
Popular Types of Virtual Support Groups
If you or someone you know can benefit from joining a grief support group, you shouldn’t let social distancing concerns stop you. There are a variety of virtual support group options that can provide the companionship, understanding and empathy you need during a difficult time. In fact, some have found…...
Flowers that Symbolize Empathy and Remembrance
Giving flowers and placing them around the deceased has roots from ancient times, although the purpose has changed. Prior to modern embalming practices, for example, flowers were used to mask any unpleasant odors, especially in warmer climates. Today, flowers are generally given both as a sign of love and respect…...
Benefits of Pet Cremations
Losing a beloved family pet is a very difficult experience. It can be compounded by not having an appropriate way to dispose of your pet’s remains and to pay fitting tribute to it. These are some of the major reasons more and more pet owners are choosing cremation for a…...
When Is it Okay to Move On from the Death of a Loved One?
It is a question we may ask ourselves when alone, in the privacy of our own homes. We may seek the advice of close friends, family or other loved ones. Following the death of someone close to us, “When is it okay to move on?” The Five Stages of Grief…...
Signs to Look for When Selecting a Funeral Home
Traditionally, funeral homes were selected by families because they had served the family for generations or because they were noted for catering to a certain religion. While many still select funeral homes based on their religion or relationship with the family, that paradigm is shifting. Families are more mobile today.…...
Why a Grief Support Group May Help You
It is frequently said every individual grieves in their own way. We are, after all, unique and we have unique relationships with those around us. We react to loss and death differently. That is not to say grief is SO unique that it can’t be shared. In fact, grief support…...
The Origin of Obituaries
We’ve all known at least someone who has responded to the question “How are you doing today?” with “Well, my name wasn’t in the obituaries this morning, so I guess I’m alright.” It seems the older we get, the more we are prone to read the daily obituaries, if not…...
Beautiful Cemeteries Around the World
Historically, cemeteries have been used for far more than burial grounds. They have been utilized as parks, picnic and meeting grounds and a source of pride and beauty for the communities in which they were placed. Families would come to celebrate birthdays and holidays in cemeteries leaving decorations and flowers…...
