Funeral

Today I attended a funeral in The Netherlands. My mom's and aunt's cousin passed away and as both of them don't like to drive longer routes (especially when they need to use the motorway) I came along for the driving.
It was such a differce to German funerals! The service took about 2 hours and after it was finished everybody (!) queued behind the coffin and went along absolutely quietly! It was quite a short walk but there was nobody talking. We walked on the street - cyclist did stop to let us pass and even cars stopped - no honing, nothing; I couldn't believe my ears and eyes!
Later on the funeral reception took place in a cafe. It is quite usual in Germany that there are coffee and canapés or even a whole lunch and tea afterwards.
Today we got a breadroll and a cup of coffee, followed by the codolence (which was not held at the grave).
The service was wonderful - Catrien (the cousin who passed away)did plan her funeral with the pastor a short time ago. Her children orated, the choir, she sung with, did present the songs and even one of her daughter's was able to sing 'Climb every mountain'.
In the end there were about 400 people around the grave place and nearly the same amount attended the funeral meal. She must have been very well known and loved....