Grief Support 101

That darn elephant! I know from personal experience that people have a hard time knowing what to say when someone dies. I get it. Before I became a professional funeral planner I was the same way. But now I've got experience under my belt so I thought for those of you lucky enough to live a blissful life free of grief, I'll help you out.
Just say something. Acknowledge the elephant in the room and move on. It's simple, really. Something like, "I'm so sorry to hear about your _______. You're in our thoughts and prayers." Or "I heard about your _________. I'm so sorry for your loss."
That's it. I told you it was easy.
Now, if you're trying to think of something to do for someone who has lost a loved one, I have a bunch of great ideas. Besides sending flowers or a card (which is perfectly fine), there are lots of things you can do. I never would have thought of any of these on my own but I've been blessed with great friends and neighbors who think of something I need before I realize I need it. Here are just a few ideas:
1. Make a meal--Take it over and stick it in their freezer. It will be perfect for the days after the funeral when things have quieted down and life is supposed to move on.
2. Drinks--Take over a cooler full of drinks like sodas, water, juice boxes, etc. for the family to drink throughout the day, or to serve with the meals people bring. Restock it each night with more ice and drinks. Remember, lots of crying makes them dehydrated so they'll love it.
3. Artwork--Framed pictures of their loved one or just something that makes you smile will be cherished for a long time. I love Willow Tree.
4. Grocery Shopping--Call the family the next time you're headed to the grocery store to see if they need you to pick up some milk or something.
5. Breakfast--The day of the funeral is usually hectic. Drop off breakfast. Someone brought us the best cinnamon rolls I've ever had. Mmmm!
6. Garbage Cans--Our neighbors brought over one of their garbage cans and we filled it! Lots of people at home and lots of flowers creates lots of garbage. They also took our trash out to the curb because small details like that are hard to remember.
7. Obituary--Cut out copies of the obituary and laminate one for each member of the family.
8. Music--Take over a CD with comforting music, or just music that makes you happy.
9. Kleenex--Take over several boxes of tissues. Trust me, the more the better.
10. Comfort Food--You know what makes you feel good. Make it and take it over. Cheesecake can do wonders for the weary soul!

OK, that's enough to get you thinking. And for everyone who thought up these ideas for my family and me...Thank you!