Some things never change.
“That boy was NEVER where he was supposed to be!” That was Mom’s mantra whenever telling her favorite stories of our childhood. Invariably they involved Bob. (It sucks to be a late entry into a big family.)
“People talk about the ‘terrible twos!” she’d say. “Well Bob was “a terrible two” for five years!”
Everybody agreed that Bob was quite a handful.
If you believe the stories, even before he could walk, Bob could escape:
- His crib
- His room
- The house
He would leave the house, and appear at local businesses in his jammies. He went to the local bakery where he was given donuts, at the local restaurants where he was given pancakes, and at the homes of relatives who lived in the neighborhood. Usually before they had started their day. He was a friendly little tike. Or else he was hungry.
“I’m sure the whole neighborhood thought I was starving that kid!” Mom laughed. “I was mortified, and terrified that somebody would call the police on me for neglecting my son.”
Well, somethings never change.
Bob, after his death, escaped. And it cracked me up.
Bob was supposed to be sent to one funeral home, but he was sent to a different one. It took nearly 24 hours to get him to the correct place.
I love the idea that Bob wandered around town, one last time. I hope someone gave him a donut.
Some things never change.
FiftyFourandAHalf 
I think I would have liked Bob. And given him donuts as well…..
LikeLiked by 1 person
It seems Bob was just being Bob right to the end and then some. I so appreciate that you have share your family stories with us over the years. I like to think it is how you keep your loved ones alive for ever. Living and laughing.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes, Bob was always Bob. And I’m glad you like the stories, because you’re right, that’s how folks stay alive. 😢🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’m glad Bob was still able to be Bob even after he was gone. Nice of him to give you one last laugh.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wasn’t it? What a guy!
LikeLike
Some people say that they see a butterfly or a bird or a rainbow when a loved one has died and know that their loved one is sending a message. Bob outdid that big time. I like his style.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Oh this is lovely Elyse, especially at such a sad time, and obviously in keeping with Bob’s character.
LikeLiked by 1 person
That’s exactly how I feel!
LikeLiked by 1 person
True to himself to the end!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I know! What a hoot!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I love this, Elyse. A wonderful tribute.
🎈Laurie
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, Laurie. It’s fun to think of him still wandering, but not in a Marley’s ghost sort of way! He would have laughed and laughed!
LikeLike
Good for Bob for getting in one last adventure. And who knows, maybe he was enjoying a donut while watching this whole comedy of errors play out.
LikeLiked by 3 people
That’s exactly what I thought, Tippy. Another night out for the boy! (My brother Fred speculated that maybe the whole thing was a hoax and Bob was at home laughing at us … (sadly, no).
LikeLiked by 2 people
Elyse,
Beautiful, brings me back to times spent at the Evers’ kitchen watching the “show,” I think I can hear the train applauding such a fine description of love and family-
Sorry for your loss
Kelly
LikeLiked by 2 people
That was a good place to be, our kitchen. And that was one of my very favorite things about the way we were raised — everybody was welcome in our house. I’m glad you remember it fondly too.
Thanks for your sympathies, too.
LikeLiked by 2 people
You got a laugh out of it. That’s the healthy and appropriate response. It’s what he would’ve done as well, I’m sure.
LikeLiked by 3 people
Humor is the only way to deal with life. Or it’s the best way, anyway. And what an appropriate way to end up for Bob.
LikeLiked by 1 person
What a lovely way to remind you of his younger escapades! So sorry for the loss of your brother, and may he live on in the laughter in your hearts ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks. It is best to keep him in mind that way, as a crazy youngster. It makes us all smile.
LikeLike
So moving and so funny. I’m sorry for your loss.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, Barb. It will be a lasting image …
LikeLiked by 1 person
Oh my goodness, if only your bro could read this post. I like to think that he is reveling in the craziness of his demise. It is pretty funny that he was lost between funeral homes. You are the best sister possible to write this with love and humour. I think you are being very strong and that is a good thing. Stay well, dear lady
LikeLiked by 2 people
Is’t it hilarious? How bizarre. But it has made me and other family members laugh. And THAT is oh so important under the circumstances!
LikeLiked by 2 people
It is great that you and the family can laugh. It is said that we are not to mourn but to celebrate death. I have not found much humor when a close family member dies but many families do tell funny stories and that does help to soften the reality of death.
LikeLiked by 2 people
I think this way of dealing with grief is especially common in folks with Irish heritage, like my family. Humor helps everything.
And no, there is nothing funny about death, or illness, or grieving. But it happens and we rarely have any choice but to deal with it however we can.
LikeLiked by 2 people