The Sunday Tree and PJ

There’s a juniper tree about two miles from our property in Young, Arizona that my husband Doug and his brothers named the “Sunday Tree.” They discovered it on a Sunday and ended up staying there, sitting under her shade and enjoying each other’s company. Since then, it has become a favorite spot for us to visit whenever we camp on our property – everyone of us has our initials carved somewhere on this tree. She is a magnificent juniper tree and the view from beneath her shade is awesome! In June 2007 my mother-in-law, PJ was able to join us on a camping trip to our property. It was her first time seeing the area that we all love and talk about so often, and at her request we took a little trip to the Sunday tree so she could see this spot we love so much. Needless to say, she loved it too; even went so far as to say she would love to spend eternity there. Here she is with Dave in June 2007:
Sadly, PJ passed away in August 2008. PJ lived a life of service – to her community, her family, and her country. It was fitting that she donated her body to science, continuing to give of herself even after her life had ended. Because of this, there was a bit of a delay for us to receive her remains.

Finally in our possession, this weekend we took her ashes to the Sunday Tree and laid her to rest. It was a beautiful day – absolutely perfect actually. We said goodbye to PJ today…our final farewell to a strong and loving woman who left a legacy behind: a large and growing family that respects and loves each other very much. A fun loving group of people who genuinely enjoy each other’s company.

Thirty-seven people were there today to pay their last respects; 37 people who spent the weekend camping at our property, sharing stories and laughter and celebrating PJ. The Sunday Tree has always been a special place. Today it became sacred.