Liz and Frank: A truly special farewell

On Thursday, the family and friends of my Aunt and Godmother, gathered at a delightful church at the entrance to the Isle of Capri, to farewell a very special character. She was full of wit, certainly had her own ideas, warmth and love - a very special Godmother to me - I was named after her. My cousin Ailsa and her 4 brothers created a wonderful farewell, which certainly had the understanding of the Minister. Ailsa spoke bravely about her Mum - as did Ails's youngest daughter, and her eldest - Jo (my God Daughter). It was sad, yet thoughtful, reflective and happy. The Wake was held where Auntie wanted, the Panorama Room overlooking a lovely small lake at the Gold Coast Arts Centre. So much family there, many of the cousins flew up from Sydney, including my brother, so a lot of catching up was done as well - it was delightful - with pink roses everywhere. Prior to this special occasion, I went through Mum's old photos, Mum was number 7 of the 11 Tarrant children, and Auntie Nalda followed as the 8th child. I found this one of my Godmother and her really special husband, and the baby with them - Auntie's god daughter - me!.

I love the one below - Ails, who is 10 months my junior at the back end of my dog, Skippy, - I chose the safer end!!! Watching this tug-o-war, was (l to r) cousins Wayne, Susan and Max.

Some years later, Susan takes a photo on her box brownie of Ails and I all decked out in our Bridget Bardot dresses, with those starched rope petticoats - off to a "6 O'Clock Rock" TV Show!

Since moving up here, we have been able to spend a lot of time with both Aunts, we've had some really great occasions and celebrations, and those birthday cakes for me!

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Auntie's 86th Birthday at Sanctuary Cove

So full of wit - a real petite character - she actually went on her first "camping" weekend when she was 86, to celebrate cousin in law Sue's 50th Birthday up in the Hinterland - and loved every moment of it.

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After the Wake, we decided to spend some time overlooking the beach - always Auntie's choice - her apartment faces the beach, we decided on the Currumbin Surf Club, it is also close to the Gold Coast Airport for those flying home the same day.