Her New Way

It is with both sadness and peace that we share with you that Nan has transitioned to her new way.  She was excited to "go home" to her "Father's Heavenly Home"

...and so she has, she has gone Home.  

Nan Elizabeth Stewart

December 2, 1940 - July 9, 2014

It was a bit of a whirlwind of a journey and adventure to getting there these past few weeks, here are a few highlights.

When she was first diagnosed, or at least it was strongly suspected mom was facing cancer, the three of us kids talked extensively and were able to come together as a family team for her.  We all talked openly with her, too, and we know she felt our support.  Frankly, I think there was a bit of reveling in the different kind of focused attention she got from all three of us too. :)

Her last couple of weeks have been the longest and most difficult, incredibly so.  But we as a family are glad that we were not only able to fulfill mom's bucket list wishes, but that we came together as a team and were also able to respect and fulfill her desire to die at home.  We had some tremendous support from her wonderful and cherished neighbor, Katie Sterling, who has been a friend and help to mom in countless ways over many years.  Mom's Pastor Brian from Spirit of Joy was of great comfort to her as well as her friends Mary, Lana and Bev who visited and prayed with her here at home...and those in her congregation who prayed with and for her all the time. We are each also grateful for our own friends and circles of support who have helped each of us move through this journey with her.  We are glad that we have been able to be there for her to the end...and now we, too, will be able to find our own peace and carry on in life with no regrets.

Her wish was to be cremated and to not have any formal funeral service, but she did wish for a simple celebration of life with her Spirit of Joy family.  That date will be determined later, likely in late August, but we'll let you know through the church and here on this blog.  We will receive her back and scatter her ashes in a couple of sentimental places she desired.

Thank you for following, reading and sharing your comments regarding this blog both here and on Facebook.  I did read all your comments to her when she was unable to read them herself.  She got a kick out of this thing and it has provided me a form of a journal through a difficult time.  There may be a few future posts, but until that time...may you all remember Nan fondly and/or wish her well in her New Way and her New Home.  Thank you & peace to you all.