You're not cold yet

Tonight we took Ellie and Max with us to the local funeral home for George's Aunt Madeline. Ellie knew Miss Madeline when she was little and used to stay with Gramma. The kids were well behaved. Mostly they colored and tried out all the new couches. They were giving hugs and cuddles and laughs. They were hanging out with the older cousins. It all went well. There were many people who showed to pay respects to Miss Madeline.

All was going smoothly when we were saying goodbye to Mom. Ellie gave her a big hug and saw Miss Madeline's open casket behind her and asked what that was. I picked her up and showed her it was Miss Madeline's body and assured her that Miss Madeline's soul was in Heaven with God. She was a little quiet, and seemed to be okay with things.  As we walked back over to the aunts and uncles she announces not once, but twice or three times, that she wants to touch Miss Madeline. I wasn't quite sure about that, so told her to ask Gramma. Gramma sort of said, okay and took her up and let her touch her hand. Ellie asked questions - why is she cold? We explained that when you die, your blood stops moving around your body and you get cold. After that, I walked away and left Gramma and Ellie to keep chatting.

They returned over to us all a few minutes later. Uncle Jerred took Ellie for a hug. Ellie gives him a hug and then looks him in the eyes and says very matter of factly, "You're not cold yet." Uncle Jerred replies, "I'm glad Ellie."

I had to turn away because I was laughing so hard. From the mouth of Ellie - so much matter of fact curiosity. I love that little girl.