A new funeral directors is/are opening in our town, and gaily advertising an "open day". Hmm. I wonder what exactly they'll be opening? Not one of those, obviously, but still, I confess to being curious.
Wll there be refreshments? This puts me in mind of one of those gallows humour conversations one can have when things have reached rock bottom. Some time ago, friend of mine (who had suffered appalling losses and bereavements) and I were discussing what refreshments one should offer as a funeral caterer. We came up with such things as 'funeral fancies' and 'coffin and walnut cake', and now I find myself wondering what else might be appropriate. Certainly, a CD of Girls A'shroud could provide the music, but does anyone have any other ideas?
(And yes, Adrian, I am getting on with the novel. Slowly.)
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Knock, knock, knocking on heavens door.
ReplyDeleteChocolate Crypt Cookies.
I am up to the top of my head in 3D so this is the best I can do.
They are brave...it could well provide material for a good sketch.
How on earth did they phrase the flyer? I can't imagine wandering a town sticking notes under folks wipers saying.
"Better Dead Than Late".
" Take the Strain from A&E,....See Us First".
There is no big rush for the book but bear in mind I'm not getting younger and am not feeling well. I am saving one of yours. I read very fast as all I read for thirty years was technical stuff and I got used to skimming. I often read novels twice or more. I'm amazed what I miss.
Brilliant, Adrian. Especially the fliers!
DeleteWhile I doubt they'll get crowds of visitors, at the same time can't help thinking well, why not. While in shock and grief it certainly isn't easy to know where to turn and what to think of. I think I'll probably be forever grateful that when my mum died (suddenly) I happened to know someone working at a funeral service (so was able to call that person instead of some stranger). Whether I'd have gone to an open house at his office before I had reason to is still doubtful, I guess! But I can imagine a 'study visit' to such an establishment being useful for example for people in various health care professions. (Sorry to get all serious but this is just what came first to mind for me... My own memories of having to make the arrangements for the funerals of both my parents in recent years.)
ReplyDeleteIt's a serious business, DT, and I agree that the right people can make all the difference.
DeleteGhoulish but realistic
ReplyDeleteThanks, L.
DeleteThey could play 'Going Underground' by The Jam.
ReplyDeleteGroan!
DeleteAs long as there's plenty of tom(b)ato sauce and gravy, it'll be fine.
ReplyDeleteOh, very good, Z!
Delete'Spotted Dick'; no-one knew what Dick had died from, but they suspected!
ReplyDeleteAnother good one, CM!
DeleteIf you weren't fond of the diseased then toad in the hole might be suitable. (My other thoughts were even less tasteful)
ReplyDeleteOh, go on, Patsy. Tell us.
DeleteOr maybe Ghouls Aloud singing Down down, deeper and down.
ReplyDeleteGhouls aloud - excellent.
DeletePS. After I'd posted the serious comment it struck me that at the open house, there might be a bowl of 'coffin drops'...
ReplyDeleteThanks for that, DT.
DeleteGhoulash.
ReplyDeleteHaving done homers as an undertakers assistant many many years ago the one thing I got was a host of stories and a realisation that a sense of humour is an absolute necessity in the business. If you didn't have one you'd go under.
Good one, GB. I discovered gallows humour when laying out bodies as a student nurse. Not appropriate, but it helped...
DeleteIt sounds like a good thing to do. People are way too awkward about what is, has been and ever will be part of our lives.
ReplyDeleteCan't think of a pithy title but I like your post, Frances. At least they're letting people know where to turn if in in need of such services. I can't stand the adverts on TV asking you to take out insurance for AFTER you're dead.
ReplyDelete